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Volume L, No. 9 •June 2020
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Planning for reopening and recovery
Today, May 20, 2020, Connecticut started to reopen. Finding the balance between the forces of economic health and personal safety will be a challenge everyone will face daily. Good luck, stay safe, and support your local businesses. Granby Recovery Planning. To our local own support reopening and idengaps to address, all tify Governor Lamont alk has asked each town by Jim Lofink to form a Long-Term Recovery Committee. The goal is to bring a diverse group of volunteers together to assess the recovery needs of the community and to assist with meeting those needs. It is modeled on lessons learned from Hurricanes Sandy and Maria, and strategically unites local, state and federal efforts and resources. Committee members should be representative of several sectors of the community including small business, health care, social services, faith ministries, education, housing, transportation and more. If you are interested in serving, contact the Town Manager’s office at 860-844-5300.
T H T
COVID-19 restrictions cancelling town activities. Any list seems to be out-of-date the minute it is published, and the restrictions determined by federal and state authorities will impact planned local summer activities. The Granby Memorial Day Parade has been canceled, as well as July’s Bluegrass Brews and BBQ Festival. The Salmon Brook Park Summer Day Camp program has also been canceled, but some short-duration special-focus camps may still be offered. Keep up-to-date by checking with Parks and Recreation, Granby Public Library, Senior Services and Social Services on the town website: granby-ct.gov Tale of Two Properties. A two-part question: A. Which town property is for sale with no viable offers, and B. Which town property is still attracting interest even though it is not for sale? If you answered A–the former Kearns school and B–the former Evonsion farm, you would be correct. Interesting times. Town seeking broker for former Kearns property: The Board of Selectmen has authorized an RFQ be released to hire a real estate broker that will represent Granby in the sale of Kearns, vacant since the summer of 2016. After
Town Hall Talk cont’d. on p. 11
Pandemic 2020—Preserving Granby’s story for future generations By Carol Laun We are all experiencing an unprecedented situation in our lives. The Salmon Brook Historical Society and the Granby Public Library are working together to gather stories about the COVID-19 experience for future generations. How has the pandemic affected your life? How is your family coping with the “stay at home” scene for work and school? What are your thoughts on what the future will be? What do you miss? How do you pass the time? How has Granby changed? Have you kept your sense of humor? What is better as a result of the lockdown?
Your participation will become a part of Granby history. We encourage children to draw pictures or write stories about the changes in their lives. The children of today will tell their children and grandchildren how it was to live through the 2020 Pandemic. The stories and artwork will be available in the historical society’s archives. Please send your photos, letters, essays, drawings and other documents to Salmon Brook Historical Society, P.O. Box 840, Granby, CT 06035 or email to claun9713@gmail.com For more information or if you have any questions, call the Granby Public Library, 860-844-5275.
The Granby Memorial Day parade and programs have been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, the American Legion placed American flags at the main cemetery and at the nine outlying cemeteries in town, as well as at the war memorials and Legion Monument.
2020 Signs of the Times
In an effort to give the GMHS Class of 2020 the recognition they have earned, the Granby Education Foundation had signs for each student printed and posted them on the entry drive to the high school the day the caps and gowns were distributed. Photo by Lindsay Sessions
News from the Registrars
Aug. 11 Presidential Preference Primary creates challenges State and federal agencies are assisting the Town of Granby with finding new protocols for providing the possible alternatives to vote. New guidelines are still in development for in-person voting, and the registrars will equip the polling place with supplies that meet the CDC guidelines. New electronic options to petition to get on the ballot have been approved by an Executive Order from the governor. The number of signatures required has been reduced by 30 percent. Anyone interested in contesting the party nominees that were chosen in May, can go to the SOTS website or contact the registrars for the details. The deadline to submit primary petitions has been extended. They are now due at the registrar’s office by 4 p.m. on June 11. Absentee ballot applications sent to all Democrats and Republicans The controversy over who can vote absentee during a pandemic in Connecticut has yet to be formally resolved. Unlike many other states, the Connecticut State Constitution only allows a short list of reasons to vote absentee. While changes to the Constitution have been proposed and debated, no changes have been passed. In an unprecedented move, the Secretary of State is mailing absentee ballot applications to every eligible primary voter to ensure their safety during the pandemic. While the state constitution prohibits
absentee voting for all, during the pandemic anyone who is at risk of infecting themselves or others may consider themselves unable to vote in person. If social distancing is still in place in August and you choose to request an absentee ballot for your safety, please do NOT neglect to check one of the reasons listed on the form. There is a box for “my illness” and another for “my physical disability.” Neither of these reasons require a doctor’s note for the town clerk. The Secretary of State’s office has issued a detailed legal opinion that those at risk for Covid-19 can apply, marking the illness box. The governor and state legislature have not yet taken legal action to support this interpretation. All absentee ballot applications must be filled out and mailed to the town clerk in order to receive an absentee ballot. The town clerk will begin issuing absentee ballots for the Aug. 11 primary when they become available on July 21. The application form is available online on the SOTS website: sots.ct.gov Look for ED3-Rev-2019-FILLABLEAPPLICATION-ABSENTEE-BALLOT. pdf Please note that if you have already applied for an absentee ballot for the primary r for the original April 28 or June 2 dates, there is no need to reapply—your application will be transferred to the new date of Aug. 11.
Photo by Peter Dinella
Page 2 The Granby Drummer
June 2020
GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES APRIL 20, 2020 The Board of Selectmen, Town Manager John Ward, and Director of Community Development, Abigail Kenyon, participated via Zoom. Present: B. Scott Kuhnly, Glenn Ballard, Sally King, Mark Neumann, Edward Ohannessian, John D. Ward, Town Manager
Public Session
Granby resident, Kate Bogli, 198R Salmon Brook Street, expressed appreciation for the board conducting its meetings via Zoom at this time. She would like to know what the board is doing to inspire the public during this pandemic. What kind of communication is the town having with other towns? She is pleased the town has opened school property for people to use for recreation while also being mindful of social distancing. She has heard Simsbury has opened its dog park and Granby’s is closed. She feels everyone should to be on the same page. Also, it would be inspiring for the town to communicate through social media. First Selectman Kuhnly responded that the board follows the CDC’s and Governor’s suggested guidelines. The board puts all its information on the town website to keep everyone updated. It does not have the staff to address other social media platforms. People should be going to the town website for information about the town and not social media, as suggested by our town attorney. The town does communicate with other
towns and also through the Farmington Valley Collaborative to find out what other towns are doing. Kuhnly reminded residents that everyone needs to practice social distancing. On A Motion by Selectman Neumann, seconded by Selectman King, the board voted (5-0-0) to strike agenda item Executive Session from the agenda.
Minutes
On A Motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (5-0-0) to amend the minutes of February 18 that stated the board voted unanimously (5-0-0) in favor of the town committing to MIRA for solid waste and recycling. The minutes should reflect the vote was 4-1-0. Selectman Ballard voted no.
Unfinished or Tabled Business
Consideration of authorizing a Tax Deferment Program and/or a Low Interest Program As discussed at the April 6 BOS meeting, Executive Order 7-S signed by Governor Lamont on April 1, 2020 requires Granby enter into a 90Day Tax Deferral Program and/or a Low Interest Program for delinquent accounts. The Office of Policy and Management (OPM) has since issued guidelines. To be eligible for the Tax Deferral Program, a resident must attest that they have lost twenty percent (20 percent) of their income due to COVID-19. In addition, landlords must prove that they are providing commensurate forbearance to their tenants.
Town Manager Ward reported he was incorrect at the last meeting when he indicated the interestfree payment period would extend from July 31 to October 31, 2020. Rather, the grace period will only extend until October 1. In effect, the deferral of the tax payment is only providing an additional 60 days. There was discussion amongst the board members regarding both programs and how residents and the town would be affected in the long run. It was mentioned that 45 percent of residents have their tax payments in escrow with banks so they don’t qualify. The banks have to pay the escrow. Deferral of payments would have a greater financial impact on the town, especially in July, when the town counts on that money to make payments. This could create a real cash flow problem. The board wants to do what’s best for taxpayers and also consider town expenses. On A Motion by Neumann, seconded by King, the board voted (5-0-0) to authorize the adoption of the Low Interest Program.
Business
Resignations and Appointments to be considered On A Motion by Neumann, seconded by King, the board voted (5-0-0) to appoint Christopher Strapp (R), 10 Indian Hill Drive, to the Agritourism Committee. Consideration of Granby Water Pollution
Control Authority (GWPCA) setting sewer use rates for 2020-21 On A Motion by Neumann, seconded by King, the board voted (5-0-0) to recess as the Board of Selectmen and open as the Granby Water Pollution Control Authority (GWPCA). Kuhnly stated in accordance with the public hearing, he recommends and requests the GWPCA to approve the proposed sewer rates for Fiscal Year 2020-21 as stated in the public hearing. On A Motion by Neumann, seconded by King, the board voted (5-0-0) to set sewer rates for residential users at a minimum of $200.12 for average gallons (55,000 gpy) used per year and $280.04 per year for commercial/industrial users (100,000 gpy). All gallon usage (residential and commercial/industrial) above the minimum will be charged $65 per gallon.
Consideration of GWPCA Approval of Sewer Allocation for Development at 276 and 280 Salmon Brook Street.
Planning and Zoning approved a 235-unit multifamily development at 276 and 280 Salmon Brook Street at its Feb. 11 meeting. The requested sewer allocation from the developer was reviewed by the Town Engineer and formal approval from the GWPCA is needed now that Planning and Zoning has approved the development. The developer has requested an allocation of 44,800 gallons per day. The town currently has 380,000 gallons per day available for the Simsbury plant and 212,345 gallons per day have been allocated so far. If allocation for 276 and 280 Salmon Brook Street is approved, 122,855 gallons per day would remain. This would allow for future connections within the sewer service area. On A Motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the GWPCA voted (5-0-0) to approve the sewer allocation of 44,800 gallons per day for the development at 276 and 280 Salmon Brook Street. On A Motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the GWPCA voted (5-0-0) to adjourn as the GWPCA and reconvene as the Board of Selectmen. Consideration of modification of existing lease for 83 Salmon Brook Street Town-owned property at 83 Salmon Brook Street was leased to Jennifer Girard to operate the establishment known as Peppermill. In September 2018 the lease was modified to allow Girard to sublet the building to Fabiola Bowles, who renovated the space and operated it as the restaurant Freshies Café. As a result of the Governor’s order to close restaurants, Freshies Café has lost significant income. Take-out is not workable or economically profitable for Freshies. Bowles is asking if the town would consider a waiver of the rent while the involuntary closure of restaurants is still going on. Said rent is $1,600 per month. The question was asked if there were any loan programs available to assist with rent. Ward indicated there was, but filled up in the first 24 hours it was available. Selectman Ballard responded there could be loan programs available from the state level. After some discussion it was determined it would be in
BOS Minutes cont’d. on p. 3
June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 3
BOS Minutes cont’d. from p. 2 the town’s best interest to defer the rent and is a good gesture toward the local business as well. On A Motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (5-0-0) to authorize the Town Manager to modify the existing lease and sub-lease to waive the rent for the months of April, May and June 2020 or until the ban on restaurants is lifted by the Governor, whichever occurs first. Acceptance of land with parking lot improvements adjacent to Freshies Café A conditional approval from Planning and Zoning of a Special Permit for a multi-family development at 83, 85R, 87R, and 91 Salmon Brook Street allows the Granby Board of Selectmen to determine the specific wording and details of the access and utility easements over the town’s property at 83 Salmon Brook Street. One of the conditions states, “Upstream shall, prior to final Certificate of Occupancy related to the construction of one hundred and thirty (130) apartments that are to be built on the premises known as 3 Murtha’s Way, Granby, Connecticut, donate to the Town a parcel of land… Upstream agrees to fully construct the parking lot in accordance with this Agreement. Final transfer of the property shall be by warranty deed…” According to the easement agreement, the parking lot will be turned over to the town when the last apartment building receives a Certificate of Occupancy, which the developer will be seeking. The parking lot is located on .514 acres currently part of 91 Salmon Brook Street. The parking lot has been fully constructed with the final course of pavement, striping, lighting, and associated drainage infrastructure installed. The as-built has been reviewed by the Town Engineer. The Town Attorney has reviewed all required documents for the land transfer. Ward doesn’t see a downside to this. It was noted it is still town property and the town would be responsible for repaving and maintenance in the future. King inquired if we can sell this property. The response was, when the lease is up the town could sell. Selectman Ohannessian would like to keep it separate. Then we could have two properties that could be sold if wanted. Community Development Director Abby Kenyon responded it makes sense to combine the two properties. On A Motion by Ohannessian, seconded by King, the board voted (5-0-0) to accept a portion of 91 Salmon Brook Street, .514 acres, and its associated improvements. Consideration of Resolution and Compliance Statement Supporting Fair Housing To reaffirm the town’s commitment to fair housing and equal opportunity, Ward is recommending the Board of Selectmen re-adopt the following Fair Housing Resolution (shown below) and the Fair Housing Policy Statement, and Compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. WHEREAS, all persons are afforded a right to full and equal housing opportunities in the
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neighborhood of their choice; and WHEREAS, Federal fair housing laws require that all individuals, regardless of race, creed, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, be given equal access to all housing-related opportunities, including rental and homeownership opportunities, and be allowed to make free choices regarding housing location; and WHEREAS, Connecticut fair housing laws require that all individuals, regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, age, lawful course of income, familial status, learning disability, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression be given equal access to all housing relate opportunities, including rental and homeownership opportunities, and be allowed to make free choices regarding housing location; and WHEREAS the Town of Granby is committed to upholding these laws, and realizes that these laws must be supplemented by an Affirmative Statement publicly endorsing the right of all people to full and equal housing opportunities in the neighborhood of their choice, NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town of Granby hereby endorses a Fair Housing Policy to ensure equal opportunity for all persons to rent, purchase, and obtain financing and enjoy all other housing-related services of their choice on a non-discriminatory basis as provided by state and federal law; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Manager of the Town of Granby or his/her designated representative is responsible for responding to and assisting any person who alleges to be the victim of illegal discriminatory housing practices in the Town of Granby and for advising such person of the right to file a complaint with the State of Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or to seek assistance from the CT Fair Housing Center, legal services, or other fair housing organization to protect his or her right to equal housing opportunities. On A Motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (5-0-0) to re-adopt the Fair Housing Resolution, Fair Housing Policy Statement, and Compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Municipal Grievance Procedure, Affirmative Action Policy Statement, and ADA Notice (memo attachments). Consideration of interest in town owned land at 107 East Street Ward reported the town was approached by the realtor of Agbotic, expressing interest in establishing a state-of-the-art farming system that grows organic plants in robotic greenhouses. There is currently a license for use of the land that is held by Northern Valley Farms, Inc. for a fee of $13,130 per year through the year 2023. It does contain an option for the town to terminate the license at the end of the calendar year. John Prete, who sits on its Board of Directors, was not available to present tonight.
PA R K P CE
COMMUNITY MEMBERS
GALLERY AT 2 PARK PLACE GRANBY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JOHN MICHAEL HAIR DESIGN EDWARD JONES - JAMES HAMMEL IDEAL HEALTHY WEIGHT LOSS THE WAY FORWARD COUNSELING SUBSEVEN
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COME JOIN US! PA R K P �C E .C O M
Town Manager’s Report
Ward reported RFPs were put out for the bridge repair work and three firms were chosen to be interviewed. Wengell, McDonnell and Costello (WMC) is the firm that was chosen. The contract is to be finalized on Thursday. The bids for the school projects came in last Thursday. They will be reviewed and an architect will be chosen to do the work. All COVID-19 updates are posted on the town website. Granby is following CDC guidelines. There is no foot traffic in the Town Hall and staff is encouraged to work from home. Communications are ongoing with other towns and the routine question is “How are you doing this in your town?” The library staff is helping the Senior Center staff with making phone calls to seniors to see how they are doing.
Budget Operations–March 2020
The town is at 102 percent of taxes collected. Revenue received for State Education is at 50 percent. The local building permits revenue is higher than anticipated. Expenses are on track. There will be an interim Community Development stand-in for 13 weeks while Ms. Kenyon is out on leave. Ohannessian asked if there are additional expenses from COVID-19. Ward responded the town has purchased seven or eight laptops to work at home. Plexiglas is installed in all offices. A thank you goes out to the Police Officers and first responders. It was noted the town would put them up in housing if they were to come down with COVID-19 to keep their families safe. Thankfully, we haven’t had to use this yet.
First Selectman Reports
Kuhnly thanked all the town employees for their hard work. Also, the Recreation Department for its emails and notes on wellness stations at the park. Thank you to Kristine and Terry for their online workouts. Selectman Reports (Sally King, Vice Chairman; Glenn Ballard, Mark Neumann, Edward Ohannessian and Student Liaison Jillian Thrall) Ohannessian thanked the boards for their working together to come up with a mill rate. Kudos to the Lost Acres Fire Department for driving the Easter Bunny all around town. On A Motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (5-0-0) to adjourn the meeting.
MAY 4, 2020 Present via Zoom: B. Scott Kuhnly, Glenn Ballard, Sally King, Mark Neumann, Edward Ohannessian, Town Manager John D. Ward
Minutes
On A Motion by Selectman Neumann, seconded by Selectman Ballard, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve the minutes of the Budget Workshop meeting of March 12. On A Motion by Selectman King, seconded by Ballard, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of April 6. On A Motion by Neumann, seconded by King, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve the minutes of the Granby Water Pollution Control Authority (GWPCA) public hearing of April 20. On A Motion by Neumann, seconded by King, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of April 20.
Unfinished Or Tabled Business
Consideration of interest in town-owned land at 107 East Street Town Manager John Ward explained the firm Agbotic approached the town, unsolicited, with interest in acquiring a site for a farming venture. It is a New York firm that specializes in high-end vegetables. It had looked at another site in town and it turned out it was not suitable. Agbotic approached the town about acquiring some land on the site at 107 East Street. That piece of land is owned by the town and is currently being leased to a local farmer. In addition to constructing greenhouses on the property for its farming operation, the plan would include installing solar panels or a fuel cell to offset energy consumption. John Prete, who sits on its board of directors, provided a presentation on the firm. Agbotic grows organic plants in robotic greenhouses. Each greenhouse is fully automated, with all seed planting, watering, harvesting, etc. controlled by computers and robots. It markets the products under the GoodHealthy Brand and sells to high end retailers such as Whole Foods and restaurants.
The greenhouses are 50ft W x 360ft L x 24ft H. There is year-round production with 12 to 14 growing cycles per year, with approximately 22 days from seed to pick. Roofing material is very strong, similar to bubble wrap or Tyvek. It is very hardy and proven to be hurricane proof. Prete gave an overview of his company’s financial status. He indicated that they did not need 125 acres for their operation. The question was asked how the company keeps up the nutritional value of the soil. It uses native soil and seaweed as a main ingredient, with no chemicals. Asked whether the operation would hurt or help other farms in Granby, it was indicated because Agbotic grows mostly alternative crops it would not hurt other farms. It does not grow crops such as corn, blueberries, strawberries, etc. Increased traffic was also a concern. Refrigerated box trucks are used for transport and for an operation of the size they are proposing, three to four trucks would leave the facility on a daily basis. When asked if there was any consideration of working with the town by adding a trash to energy source to their facility, Prete indicated they would be interested. Kuhnly stated this issue has not been discussed by the board and he did not want anyone to think the board is proposing a trash to energy facility. It is merely a question from one selectman. Hope Stafford, 15 Maple Hill Drive, asked for a time frame for the operation from purchase to making a profit. Assuming all the permits are in place, the greenhouses could be up and running with seeds in the ground in three months. Bill Glueck, 18 Barkhamsted Road, inquired about equipment investments and fuel. Each greenhouse costs $125,000. Solar is $1ml. and fuel cell is $1.4ml. Water is from ground source and mostly reclaimed water. Glueck asked if the proposed power source is more than they need, would Agbotic be open to work some kind of deal with the town. The answer was yes. Kate Bogli, Salmon Brook Street, inquired about the proposal regarding the land and purchase price. Kuhnly responded this is just a presentation. The appraisal price is $1.5M in its entirety and $675,000 without development rights. The land is currently under lease. It was reiterated Agbotic does not need all 125 acres.
Business
Vacancies: Conservation Commission (1)
Town Manager Reports
Ward reported the construction of the roundabout on Route 10 and East Street has begun. No detours are currently planned. As of April 29, there are 13 reported cases of COVID-19 in Granby, with one fatality. Town services continue to be provided, although online transactions are preferred if possible. The Senior Center continues to provide a meal service every Tuesday that is now done as a curbside grab-and-go service. Youth Services provides counseling and programming through the use of Zoom and Telehealth. The Town Manager thanked the CERT Team for helping Director Sandy Yost to shop for home-bound seniors. The library stays active online. Card holders are able to download e-books and e-audio titles at no cost. Unfortunately, last Friday 10 part-time workers were laid off due to the decreased workload with the libraries being closed to the public. The parks are open with social distancing in practice. The dog park and playgrounds remain closed. Parks and Recreation has online fitness classes available. The State Department of Labor showed the number of unemployment compensation applications sorted by town. Granby, like other towns, shows an increase.
First Selectman Reports
Kuhnly reported the VFW has notified the town that the Memorial Day Parade has been canceled this year. Please remember to thank veterans for what they have done for us and never forget the sacrifice they have made for our freedom.
Selectman Reports
Neumann, the Republican Town Committee Chairman, reported the Presidential Preference Primary has been changed again, now to be held on Aug. 11. Respectfully submitted, John D. Ward, Town Manager
Page 4 The Granby Drummer
Drumbeat Letters to the Editor Granby Community Fund
You may have read that the Hartford Foundation has created 29 new funds, one for each of the towns in our region, as part of its Greater Together program. Each of the new funds is called a “community fund.” This should not be confused with the Granby Community Fund, Inc. GCF would like to take this opportunity to let you know that the Granby Community Fund, Inc. is not part of this new initiative by the Hartford Foundation. The Granby Community Fund, Inc. has been an integral part of the Granby community since 1960. It is a federally recognized 501(c)3. It has supported many Granby nonprofit programs such as Parents for a Safe Graduation, the Marquis of Granby, Salvation Army, Holcomb Farm Fresh Access, Granby Fuel Bank, Granby Social Services, FAVARH, McLean Meals on Wheels, American Red Cross, Farmington Valley YMCA, Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen, and the Granby Boy and Girl Scouts. It raises more than $60,000 from Granby donors to support Granby programs. Please do not confuse the two funds. Your support is vital to the continuation of the Granby Community Fund, Inc. If you would like to donate or if you have a question or comment, please visit granbycommunityfund.com/ or contact us at Granby Community Fund, P.O. Box 94, Granby, CT 06035. Thank you, The 2020 Granby Community Fund Board of Directors: Dave Amidon, Barbara Bosso, Ginny Brezza, Madeline Christensen, Vickie Dirienzo, Holly Fisher, Holly Johnson, Nancy Knutson, Jack Lareau, Jean Miller, Karen O’Neil, Kathy Orfitelli, Patty Sansone, Whitney Sanzo, Ellen Shilkret, Coreen Thompson, Karen Viets
Kudos for town meetings
I want to congratulate the town’s employees and elected officials for their adaptation to the current pandemic environment. Communication has always been the cornerstone of effective local government and the timely adoption of videoconferencing enables that for Granby. On Wednesday night, May 12, I attended the Planning and Zoning meeting held via teleconferencing on Zoom. This was the second town meeting that I attended in this manner and I thought the meeting went very well, as did the first one with the BOS. Civil dialog and expedient handling of the agenda items—my kind of meeting. Mark D. Higby
Local restaurant praised
The Drummer left out one of Granby’s restaurants by failing to mention Rancho Viego. Last I knew they had served over 40 free meals to families struggling during this epidemic and that was over a week ago. Their take-out business is doing its usual, if not better than in the past. While Jimmy Chen’s line up is formidable, Rancho Viejo is family-owned and family friendly. Fred Hogaboom
Support for Lampert
I’m writing in support of Audrey Lampert, candidate for Connecticut House of Representatives, 62nd District. I’ve known Audrey for years. We first met through our mutual involvement with the Granby Democratic Town Committee, where she has been an officer for years. Audrey has deep roots and involvement in Granby and the wider community. One of the things I’ve noticed about Audrey is, whatever the task before her, her problem-solving skills go to work immediately, and those skills are exceptional. She is a no-nonsense person who uses her extensive experience at high levels in the financial management world to get right to the issue. Invariably, she reaches solutions that are logical, attainable and acceptable to all parties. This is an exceptional skill set and is key to Audrey’s success both in her professional work and her civic engagement: her ability to recognize all viewpoints and bring people together. Audrey will be a Representative who will effectively reach across the aisle when needed, to reach a solution that’s right for the district and right for Connecticut. And really, that’s what we need from our state legislators to get Connecticut moving again. Valerie Eastwood
FIND US
KEEP US IN THE LOOP
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.
In February, activists held a rally on the north steps of the state capitol building seeking a ban on fur sales and manufacturing in Connecticut. State representatives David Michel of Stamford, Anne Hughes of Easton, Redding and Weston, Dorinda Borer of West Haven, and Mike Winkler of Vernon attended the event in a show of support. Readers should contact their representatives if they were not one of these compassionate four and urge them to support a ban. If your representative already supports the idea, readers should consider thanking them. It’s time to end this cruel, outdated industry. To stay up to date on the campaign to achieve this in Connecticut, visit Fur Free CT on Facebook or Twitter. Jon Hochschartner
CORRECTIONS
Send your news articles and ideas, photos and letters to: editor@granbydrummer.org. Please include your name, phone and email address. Deadlines for the next issue are printed on the back page in this issue or visit our website: granbydrummer.com.
editorials, commentary & letters to the editor
Ban fur trade
Please tell us if you find an error in this issue of the Drummer. We’ll attempt to correct it in the following issue. Leave a message at 860-653-9222 or send an email to: editor@granbydrummer.org.
June 2020
2020 Dog Licensing Pursuant to Connecticut General Statute, all dogs over the age of six months must be licensed in the town of residence no later than June 30 each year. Dog licensing for 2020 will start June 1. While Granby Town Hall is closed to the public due to COVID-19, dog owners may submit their licensing paperwork through the mail, or deposit applications in the secure Town Clerk drop box just inside the Town Hall lobby during regular working hours. Applications can be found on the town website under Town Clerk Department. Please include a rabies certificate (new and renewal) and spay/neuter info if applicable, along with a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Fees are: altered dog $8, unaltered dog $19, kennel-10 dog $51. Payment must accompany the application whether mailed or dropped in Town Clerk box. Payment by check only, payable to Town of Granby. Mail to Granby Town Clerk, 15 North Granby Road, Granby, CT 06035, OR leave in Town Clerk drop box, no later than June 30.
The Granby Drummer A volunteer, non-profit publication established in 1970. The Granby Drummer (ISSN 1547-1497) is published monthly except January and August by Citizens for a Better Granby at 11 North Granby Road, Granby, CT 06035. It’s delivered free of charge to all Granby households and businesses. Out-of-town subscriptions are $25 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Granby, CT, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE GRANBY DRUMMER P.O. Box 165 Granby, CT 06035-0165 Copyright ©2020 Citizens for a Better Granby, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization all rights reserved. CBG Board Kathy Norris, President David Tolli, Vice President Roger Hayes, Treasurer Becky Mikus, Secretary Flo Bischoff, Carol Bressor, Karen Cleary, Sam Mikus, Lew Noble Staff Rita Isaacson, Managing Editor Chris Levandowski, Copy Editor Amanda Lindberg, Special Pages Editor Andrea Leshinskie, Photo Editor Dave Tolli, Photo Editor Barbara Blanchette, Mindy Borrego, Carolyn Carter, Nancy Dudenhofer, Elaine Girard, Karen Cleary, Patricia Kovaleski,
Town of Granby Meeting Calendar Check Town of Granby website or call Town Manager’s office to verify date and time, and get information on how to participate on Zoom. Board of Selectmen, 7:30 p.m., Mondays, June 1, June 15 Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Monday, June 22 Board of Education, 7 p.m., Wednesdays, June 3, June 17 Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m., Tuesday, June 23
Eileen Longhi, Lew Noble, Donna Schedinger, Faith Tyldsley Reporters & Contributors Lori Blackburn, Jennifer Benson, AnnMarie Cox, Marisa DeLuca, Mark Fiorentino, Bernadette Gentry, Jay Harder, Carol Laun, Jim Lofink, Joanne Mayornick, Amy McCue, Shirley Murtha, John R. Nieb, Camden Robertson, Lisa Salazar, Pam Sherrer, Emma Smith, Jessica Tsaptsinos, Faith Tyldsley, Kristine Vincent, John Violette, Laura Wolfe, Sandy Yost Advertising Team Jen Bell, Carol Bressor, Daneika Janski Deborah Kulwich, Beth Rathey, Subscriptions & Delivery Sam & Becky Mikus
Inland Wetlands & Watercourses, 7 p.m., Wednesday, June 10 Development Commission meetings suspended until further notice
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June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 5 Op-Ed
Should voters have a vote on how to vote?
By Susan Patricelli Regan The COVID-19 virus pandemic is now a primary intervenor in our 2020, and possibly 2022, elections rather than a foreign entity. In fact, if the virus blame can be squarely placed on China, rather than a collusion with Russia, then that changes the landscape for the U.S. Presidential election. But all politics is local (chiefly U.S. politics). Ultimately, voters are most concerned about issues affecting their personal lives and communities, and they vote accordingly. Recently, Denise Merrill, Connecticut Secretary of State, has proposed procedures for 2020 voter elections. Governor Lamont, and it is presumed, the State Legislature, will determine the outcome of that recommendation. See Merrill’s Proposal: portal.ct.gov/-/media/SOTS/ ElectionServices/2020-Voting-Plan-FINAL-DRAFT-May-2-715-PM.pdf?la=en
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If Connecticut were to move to mailin/early/absentee voting options, would you be comfortable or concerned about the outcome of the elections? Those elected will determine the fiscal and physical status of Connecticut going forward. The media has reported that some incumbents in the Connecticut Legislature, including Senate Minority Leader Len Fasano (R); House Minority Leader Themis Klarides (R); Representative William Simanski (R), for the 62nd District and Speaker of the House Joe Aresimowicz (D), will not run for their current offices again. Will any of them consider a 2022 Connecticut gubernatorial run? They are seasoned politicians who will cite their extensive experience and dedication to public life. How will a growing segment of registered Independent voters view those credentials for either party? Might Bob Stefanowski throw his hat in again? Or, might there be unidentified candidates with the skill set required for successful leadership who will convince voters that they are a viable alternative to the higher profile roster? How about if candidates’ pictures were included on the ballots, mail-in or otherwise—would you vote for that? Susan Patricelli Regan is the Host of CT Valley Views TV, President of Foxfield F.A.R.M. Foundation and former VP of Marketing and Community Trade Relations for DIAGEO N.A.
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What just happened? Is it even possible to describe the last two months and the impact the global pandemic has had on each of us, our communities, the state, the nation and the world? How do we look to the future if we still do not fully understand today? As you read this article, people are still losing the battle to the COVID-19 virus. The number of new cases has begun to slow down, but are we sure that we have learned enough to move forward correctly? Consider that we are at the right time to take a breather. Have faith and trust that the experts are making the right decisions to assure our safety as we re-open our lives and businesses. While many facets of the bigger picture can be endlessly debated, maybe this is an excellent time to reflect on how we did. What did we recognize in our situations that made this crisis one of personal change, discomfort and loss of control? In the beginning, everyone experienced some new fear and anxiety. We were trying to comprehend that the world was facing a novel virus, which needed to be defined because none of us had experienced such an illness. We had to become educated on symptoms, what to watch out for, how to know if it was time to see or call a medical provider. We were told to shelter-in-place and practice proper social distancing. Today we cannot go into public without a protective facial mask. The grocery stores have limited purchase of some items, and, for the first time in our lives, we are told what to do and where to do it by the government. This is not the norm in the United States. These changes make us wary and anxious. Despite the obvious tragedies of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is possible that some good came from the extra time at home. Our community health nurses routinely provide blood pressure and blood glucose monitoring services at clinics that were all shut down. We asked how they filled the time while sheltering in place. Similar to many of you, they used the time to do household chores and projects put off in the past. They reorganized, cleaned out, and sifted through years of keepsakes in an effort to clear out the clutter. They tended their gardens. They focused on their loved ones in old fashioned ways, like doing puzzles, family game nights, enjoying being together over meals. Most took more time cooking, and many made sure that they watched out for their neighbors, making deliveries for those too concerned to leave their homes. They extended themselves in new roles to assist the VNA, making sure that we would be able to do business as usual. They spearheaded volunteer campaigns and donations to the VNA, and because
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of their efforts, we are well-stocked and well prepared. Some also said they took this time to review their personal documents; reviewing wills, health care requests, and organizing those files. Most walked many more miles than usual, and all of them chose to look on the bright side as best they could. Interestingly, they all said that the extra time on hand let them focus more time on each other and their families, especially those not close. Everyone became experts at video chatting, using FaceTime and Zoom as the next best thing to a grandparent’s hug. Here’s what they identified that translates to each of us. Social isolation and loneliness are very real syndromes that can lead to deepening depression and anxiety, and lead to crippling levels of fear. This needs to be combated, and the nurses found ways to cope. They have all survived just fine—as did the majority of us. They identified how important it is to keep busy, keep positive, and most critically, how to stay connected. We are social beings. Whether or not we find the same level of comfort in big groups, we all need other people in our daily lives. Finding ways to stay connected, cared for, as well as to care for others, even if only in conversation, is vital to keeping our spirits up. A 2018 National Survey by Cigna Healthcare indicated that nearly half of those surveyed described feeling as though they were alone—either sometimes or always. According to a meta-analysis co-authored by Julianne Hold-Lunstad, Ph.D., at Brigham Young University, lack of social connection heightens health risks as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day or having an alcohol-use disorder. Her study found that loneliness and social isolation were twice as harmful to physical and mental health as obesity. Given what we are experiencing, doesn’t it make us stop and think? We owe it to ourselves, especially as we move forward into an uncertain future, to do all that we can to prevent illness and take care of ourselves. Think about what you did to get through these last two and a half months, and what you will do going forward. Think about how essential managing loneliness and social isolation is and gear up better for your day-to-day life. We do not need another health-care crisis to develop this vital part of our emergency preparedness. Stocking up on toilet paper is important but taking care of your mental health and well-being comes first. Plan now. Work on your introspection and develop the skills you need to stay connected. Together, anything is possible. By Nancy A. Scheetz, APRN, Executive Director, Farmington Valley VNA
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Page 6 The Granby Drummer
June 2020
GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES MARCH 18, 2020 Board Members Present (via teleconference): Jenny Emery, Mark Fiorentino, Melissa Migliaccio, David Peling, Sarah Thrall, Rosemarie Weber, Brandon Webster and Dwaritha Ramesh (Student Representative). Absent Board Members: Jack DeGray (Student Representative) Melissa Migliaccio stated she is pleased f to hold this meeting virtually, and recognized the importance of continuing to move the business of the district forward.
Superintendent’s Announcements
Dr. Jordan Grossman thanked the board and the community at large for their support, stating the Granby Public Schools will move forward with strength. A lot has happened since the last BOE meeting. Schools were shut down for what was thought would be a 14-day closing and following a day or so later, Governor Lamont closed all state schools to at least March 31. Grossman stated he has been communicating with the Commissioner of Education and by phone with Lamont and is monitoring the Executive Order very closely. The Commissioner of Education told each superintendent to immediately begin a plan of remote learning for students. Grossman shared that the district has been talking about remote learning for about two and a half weeks and we need to put plans into effect immediately. He informed the board that Granby immediately applied for a federal grant to provide meals for students who are in need and starting on Monday the district was able to provide grab-and-go breakfasts and lunches for students. With the Executive Order shutting down the schools and the commissioner’s order for a remote learning plan, Grossman said he met with his District Leadership Team to discuss roll-out of the plan. A communication was sent to the entire staff, families and the community at large that a distance learning plan will start on March 23. Teachers came forward in strength and said they would do what is needed for the Granby students. Virtual staff meetings will be held March 19. The Special Education Department will reach out to families by the end of the week to discuss plans. A distance learning website has been created for family members, students and staff. Granby is united and many people have reached out to thank us for the work we are doing. Grossman said he will work with his team to move forward with strength every day and that everything the district is doing is in the best interest of all children.
Migliaccio opened up for questions
Jenny Emery inquired about improving the timeliness in sending communications to parents. Grossman stated the technology team is working with the company we use to send communications. All communicated information can be found on the main website and the website created for distance learning. Grossman said principals sent a survey to families yesterday and any individual who is in need of a device
can report in small groups to pick one up on Friday at the middle school, Kelly Lane and Wells Road. Additionally, some companies are providing internet access for families who do not have it. Migliaccio inquired about special education services. Grossman replied that a team is working with our district but also with the Farmington Valley on best practices for our students with IEPs. Aimee Martin, director of pupil services, will be sending a letter to families in the next two days and she has a faculty meeting with her staff on Friday for steps going forward. She will meet with Teaching Assistants on Monday for their role in providing distance learning to students. Grossman said this is a learning curve, especially for the different services that students will need, such as OT, PT and speech. Dave Peling inquired if this is a day-to-day situation. Grossman said that he has a phone conference tomorrow with the Commissioner of Education. The district is planning for now, the next two weeks as well as months and several years ahead. He hopes the Governor releases his Executive Order but right now there is no time line. If the Governor says it is up to local school districts, he and the BOE will discuss the situation. As soon as he knows, he will let the BOE know. Rosemarie Weber commented that hopefully district learning will be effective and inquired how the district will address remediation issues based on where students are now to where they will be in June. She asked how the district will assess this and put services in place. Grossman replied that any time students are removed from school they are missing education. Students will be out for 11 days now but if they are out longer, it will be a different issue and it will be looked at student-by-student and case-by-case. A school closure could not only have an academic impact but can have a financial impact as well. Brandon Webster inquired about the delivery of instruction. Grossman responded that the high school instruction will go on as best we can and teachers will post online. Fortunately, Grades 3–12 use Google Classroom. Videos are being created for families on how to use Google Classroom and resources are on the website. He added that the district needs to be creative with music, art, PE, and technology, and teachers will need to get involved. Kelly Lane will be using SeeSaw and he expects that students will not be on computers or iPads all day long. They will read books, go outside and exercise. Teachers should create professional learning networks with other teachers across the country. The district wants to create as much normalcy as possible.
Business Manager’s Report
Anna Robbins, business manager, presented the February statement of accounts and stated the BOE shows a negative forecast of $129K. Special education expenditures are projected to be unfavorable by $307K and regular education favorable by $178K. The overall forecast is favorable over the previous month by $30K. Salaries and benefits show a favorable forecast of $147K. The over-budget conditions in transportation
have been reduced by $30K due to an accounting error in the recording of a credit. The Quality and Diversity Fund continues to show a favorable forecast of $22K due to magnet school tuitions and personnel expenses. Revenues to the town continue to reflect a favorable projection for regular tuition from other towns of $39K. The projection for special education tuition from other towns remains favorable at $21K. Excess Cost Grant funding of $328K was received by the town in February and the rate of reimbursement is 74.7 percent, which is higher than projected. The anticipated 72 percent change reflects full-year forecast for revenue at a favorable $6K compared to budget. This will be a very fluid situation moving forward. Emery stated the Finance Subcommittee reviewed this tonight. The credit in transportation is a result of CREC contracting with us to use buses for summer camp services. This has been favorable and the $30K is our share of their profits from that, which was a nice surprise as it helps to shrink the gap with the special education deficit. She stated there was some discussion about the possibility of school being closed and that some expenses will not be expended; however, looking further out, there may be unanticipated expenses in trying to remediate the lost education along the way.
FY21 Board of Education Budget Approval
The board continued discussion and considered the approval of the FY21 Board of Education Budget. A motion was made by Emery and seconded by Weber that the BOE adopt the FY21 Board of Education Budget. Migliaccio said that at the last budget workshop, Mark Fiorentino stated that he supported the budget because he did not expect to attend this meeting. The budget is under the guideline of 3 percent at 2.92 percent. Fiorentino still supports the budget. Peling echoed Fiorentino’s sentiment. Given the transition of a new superintendent, it is a very good budget for this moment in time. He is looking forward to seeing what comes out next year after new goals are defined and he supports this budget. Weber supports the budget: a phenomenal job always in tight margins to maximize efficiencies and move the district forward while staying under the guidelines. Webster said it would be fantastic in an ideal world to find a way to add in the Math Interventionist and Social Worker but great job. He is interested to see what Grossman can do going forward and he supports the budget. Emery supports the budget but has two issues to raise for the record: Spent a lot of time thinking about and looking at numbers related to the first item on the unfunded list in support of Aimee Martin and special education for the Special Education Supervisor. She was looking at whether there was some way to include this in the budget halfway through the year and stated she cannot imagine that we will not need this resource and it will save the district money. She wants to keep a close eye on it. Secondly, she is very concerned about the budget vote. She supports the budget and the fact that schools have run at less-than-the-cost of doing business for a number of years now. She doesn’t know what the April budget vote will be but when it comes time to vote, all hands need to be on deck for this budget. Migliaccio said she appreciated all the comments. Different proposals have been floating around about the budget time line and she will keep the board apprised. Thrall said she appreciates that Grossman and his team came in below the guideline.
It is a solid budget and she supports it. Migliaccio echoed everyone’s comments and added Emery raises a great point about the special education piece that continues to be an issue to attack with the board. She thanked Grossman for presenting this budget on his second day on the job. She is pleased it was brought in under the guideline as well as the special consideration for Kindergarten class sizes. The motion passed unanimously.
BOARD REPORTS Finance/Personnel/Facilities
Emery reported this subcommittee met this evening to discuss the food service contract that is out to bid. The state changed the calendar so this will be pushed to April for a vote. Robbins reported that five companies were interested. An update on the building projects was also received. The two main issues are the district has the architect and wants to get moving with selecting the contract for the rest of the middle school roof. Ideally this project would be done this summer but no response has been come from the state. Robbins and Grossman will try to get an answer on this. The main issue is, the district is out to bid for an architect for most of the rest of the project. It will depend on what the architect comes up with and the final costs. The deadline was extended an additional three weeks but hope to keep it moving forward. The other item discussed was that some residents are not getting messages. Webster mentioned the availability of breakfast and lunch. Grossman said that right now the food packages are available 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. daily in the front circle of the middle school parking lot. However, this may change to Monday/ Wednesday/Friday or Tuesday/Thursday, but this will be monitored as we go along. Migliaccio noted that the numbers are up to 46. Grossman shared that Hartford students are being served by Hartford Public Schools and Hartland families were informed that they can also pick up food in Granby. He said several people have reached out to him regarding transportation issues but has not heard of any need.
Granby Education Foundation
Emery reported the last meeting was cancelled and the GranBee is also cancelled this year. An event in the fall will partially take its place and a bigger and better GranBee will be held in 2021. Kim Becker said that if there are opportunities for GEF to support the district, they are willing to help. Migliaccio strongly encouraged every board member to support the GEF.
Board Member Announcements
Emery told the board about some wonderful outreach online (#sunshine songs) where students performed their high school musical songs. It made her think about Granby’s Got Talent, Coffeehouse, etc. and if some students want to set up performances, she would love to get those out there to view. Peling thought this is a great point and there may be a way to do them virtually. Dwaritha Ramesh, Student Representative, said it is very disappointing that events are being cancelled. She was looking forward to the musical as well as her last season on the robotics team. Events like prom and senior outing are up in the air. She and her peers are hoping for the best. She understands the importance of not spreading the virus and it is unfortunate senior year has to end like this.
BOE Minutes cont’d. on p. 7
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June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 7
GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES Cont’d. from p. 6 Migliaccio shared that the CIAC stated today they are not willing to shut the door on a spring sports season. She thanked board members for their support and coming together tonight. It is a great board and she is proud to serve with everyone.
APRIL 1, 2020 Board Members Present via tele- or video-conference: Jenny Emery, Mark Fiorentino, Melissa Migliaccio, David Peling, Sarah Thrall, Rosemarie Weber, and Brandon Webster. Absent: Jack DeGray and Dwaritha Ramesh (Student Representatives) Melissa Migliaccio thanked board members for their flexibility in this environment. She also commented on a social media post about students having to repeat school next year that went viral. Superintendent Grossman sent out a notice that this was not a real communication. Migliaccio said she received a call from a father who was beside himself saying that he did it as a joke on his kids and he feels sick about it. He said he teaches his kids that when they do something wrong and they know it’s wrong, they need to apologize. He said it was meant to stay in the four walls of his home and to please relay his apologies to the board and to Grossman. Migliaccio said he was an honest, upstanding person and this is a lesson for our kids too.
Superintendent’s Announcements
Grossman introduced Marian Hourigan, the new Interim Assistant Superintendent of Schools. The Washington, D.C. and Nature’s Classroom trips were cancelled. These were very tough decisions. For high school seniors, there are many momentous occasions that are very important to them, including graduation, prom and the senior outing. Grossman has asked Principal Dunn to form a committee to discuss senior activities and work with the senior class and advisors. A message was sent to the senior class about these activities. Prom was moved to the latest possible date, Monday, June 15, and the senior outing will be moved as well. All testing is waived including SATs by the Commissioner of Education. Testing calendars will have to be adjusted. Grossman said school closure communication will be sent by his office; please do not always believe the media. Currently, by Governor’s Executive Order, schools will be closed through at least April 20. Congratulations to student Brian Rooney, 8th grade, who placed in the Top Three in future problem solving. The second-round interviews of the Middle School principal search were completed yesterday. One
candidate will be introduced to the board on April 22 as the next principal of GMMS. Completed the Vision, which will be delivered next week with the town budget edition. Grossman said he appreciates all of the hard work that everyone has done for the budget. The BOF approved a budget for 2.92 percent, which will mean a 0 percent tax increase to Granby taxpayers. The town will use the general fund balance to accomplish this. This will go to the Town Public Hearing on April 13. Thank you to Anna Robbins for all of her work as we received communication from the state granting approval for funding of the middle school roof referendum project. Jenny Emery shared the positive feedback of parents saying how seamless the move was to distance learning.
Teaching and Learning
Interim Assistant Superintendent Marian Hourigan reviewed highlights of the District Learning Plan. She said in the 2-1/2 weeks she has been in Granby she has primarily focused on implementing Distance Learning. For PK–5 students who have not had Chrome Books, a lesson template was created and posted on the parent resource page. Hourigan said she also worked with the Summer School Director on what summer school might look like this year. Students may need more intensive summer school. She has attended faculty meetings on distance learning for troubleshooting issues and said a policy will need to be created for distance learning, A resource site for parents, a survey about distance learning and a FAQ document for parents have been created. Migliaccio inquired specifically about how K–5 students and teachers are doing with Distance Learning. Hourigan said they are doing very well and in Grades 3–5 she has received a lot of positive comments as students are more comfortable with technology and able to access the lessons. PK–2 is moving along and parents are assisting students get on to the SeeSaw platform. Hourigan said it is a learning curve for teachers as well. However, teachers have been phenomenal and rising to the occasion to engage students and keep them learning. Rosemarie Weber inquired about scenarios for summer school and different levels of remediation that may be needed. She said summer school is fee-based for most students who attend but if summer school will be used for remediation, the district would have to make sure it is not essentially charging for public education. Hourigan said the district is considering it not be fee-based if it were a remedial program. Grossman said this may be an instance where we will go over budget. The district wants to continue the enrichment program for summer school; however, there may be a need to have two and three sections
for regular summer school and this could be a funding issue. He said meetings about summer school have begun early and the district is looking at different scenarios for this year. Emery inquired about how students take advantage of off-campus schools like Asnuntuck and magnet schools and how that is being filled at this time as well as feedback he has received from the PTO especially after their specific outreach to parents. Regarding magnet schools, Grossman said that is CREC’s responsibility. He assumes that the Asnuntuck is still working with students, since it is college courses and students have already spoken to their teachers and they would have work to do. With regard to K–5 parents he said, Grossman said it is a difficult situation for them right now and a survey about Distance Learning will be sent to parents tomorrow. He informed the board the PTO is doing exciting morale boosters for teachers, students and families. Grossman will continue discussions with the PTO board to make sure the district is serving children to the highest level. He said he will also be reaching out to the SEPTO (Special Education PTO) Board. Brandon Webster inquired if there has been feedback from the Special Education Department and Grossman said some parents are very excited with the services they are receiving because case managers have reached out to them via phone and Google Hangout.
Consent Agenda
A motion was made by Weber and seconded by Emery to adopt the minutes from the March 18 meeting. An amendment to add Mark Fiorentino as present will be made. This motion passed with the noted amendment unanimously.
FY21 Budget Update
Grossman provided an update on the FY21 Board of Education Budget, stating the BOF held a Special Meeting on Monday night and all BOE members attended virtually. Migliaccio said she was pleased with comments from BOF to the BOE and that the standing-still number was close to the actual budget moved forward. She said it is still unclear to her, given the Governor’s Executive Order, whether there will be a referendum vote because the Governor has empowered towns to pass budgets without a referendum or town meeting vote. Grossman said Migliaccio did a phenomenal job presenting the budget. He said it is a fiscally responsible budget. The Town Public Hearing will be held via Zoom and Migliaccio will be present virtually on Monday, April 13.
Policy 6172.6—Distance Learning
Sarah Thrall said the Curriculum/Policy/Technology/ Communications Subcommittee met this evening and reviewed this policy. Given the nature of day-today changes, there may be other things that need to be added, so it was decided to keep the policy in
subcommittee and discuss it at the next meeting in May. Thrall said great questions were posed on the policy and there is no rush to adopt it at this time as the Governor’s waiver is in place.
Board Reports C u r r i c u l u m / P o l i c y / Te c h n o l o g y / Communication
Thrall said this subcommittee had a robust agenda. Marian Hourigan was introduced to the subcommittee and started her position as Interim Assistant Superintendent with no school in session on her first day. Hourigan presented her monthly report which mostly highlighted Distance Learning, preparing teachers and getting curriculum ready; summer school; Teacher of the Year; two policies were reviewed and sent to the full board for approval; a policy on Distance Learning was reviewed but will stay in subcommittee; approved a new online vocabulary text; update on the work of the Granby Equity Team that has not been able to meet in person but are putting a plan in place to continue to meet.
Granby Education Foundation
Kim Becker reached out to Emery and herself offering the foundation’s help especially with distance learning. Migliaccio said she made a donation to GEF and she encouraged all board members to do the same.
Board Member Announcements
Peling inquired how the board Zoom meetings are advertised. Migliaccio said directions are posted on the website as well as on the invite when the agenda is sent out. Migliaccio thanked Grossman for his videos to the students stating they have been well received. She also asked Grossman to pass on to the technology team how grateful the board is for their service during this time.
Executive Session
A motion was made by Migliaccio and seconded by Peling to adjourn the meeting and enter into an executive session to discuss a collective bargaining agreement. This motion passed unanimously. The Executive Session adjourned, and the board meeting adjourned immediately after. APRIL 22, 2020 Board Members Present via Zoom: Jenny Emery, Mark Fiorentino, Melissa Migliaccio, David Peling, Sarah Thrall, Rosemarie Weber, Brandon Webster and Dwaritha Ramesh and Jack DeGray (Student Representatives). Melissa Migliaccio called the meeting to order.
BOE Minutes cont’d. on p. 8
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bhhsNEProperties.com Granby Drummer June 2020
Page 8 The Granby Drummer
June 2020
GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES Cont’d. from p. 7 Superintendent’s Announcements
Committed to looking at graduation and end-of-year activities. Included students on a meeting that occurred today and creative ideas are being discussed. Would love to have graduation on a normal date outside. Mr. Dunn, high school principal, has been asked to update the board and community where we are with graduation at a future board meeting. This will not be a rushed decision. Communication has been sent to high school families about grading students with a Pass/Fail or letter grade. K–8 administrators are currently in discussion with staff for the last trimester for K–5 and last quarter for 6–8 students. Our hearts go out to our student athletes and musicians who are normally recognized this time of year. CIAC will hold a meeting tomorrow to discuss the future of athletics. Grossman will report back to board what the CIAC decides.
Middle School Principal Announcement
Grossman introduced the new Granby Memorial Middle School Principal. He also wished Susan Henneberry the best in her retirement and thanked her for her leadership and guidance saying she would be missed in the community. There were approximately 65 applicants for the principal position. Grossman expressed it a pleasure to introduce Taylor Wrye. Wrye is the current principal of Westbrook Middle School. He brings a tremendous amount of experience in middle school education. Wrye stated he is grateful to Superintendent Grossman and the board and that it was an amazing and very thorough process. He is excited to be here with his wife Caitlyn and sons, Jack and Charlie, who attend Kelly Lane Primary School. Wrye stated it is a dream opportunity to live in this town and be part of the Granby community.
Student Representative Reports
Dwaritha Ramesh and Jack DeGray, student representatives, reported on learning online and adjustments to student life. Dwaritha stated there are a lot of successes and with every week it is getting much smoother. Teachers are very supportive offering live meets and office hours. She stated it is as close as it could get to a regular classroom environment and she cannot think of any outstanding issues. Dwaritha stated she has been especially glad of the support she received from the Guidance Dept. She has officially accepted to go to UConn in the fall and it has been a good resource to have her guidance counselor available through email as well as access to the College and Career Center. She is currently applying for scholarships. Migliaccio inquired if there were any surprises with the distance learning platform. Dwaritha stated it takes a lot more motivation to get things done without a teacher in front of you and peers around you. It is not the same as doing homework on a regular school day. Migliaccio also inquired about the robotics program that Dwaritha is heavily involved in. Dwaritha said she connects with the group through a regular group chat and is trying to keep updated with everything; however, there is not too much going on except for planning, preparing for next season and training for underclassmen. Sarah Thrall asked Dwaritha for feedback on the Google platform. Dwaritha stated she thinks Schoology is better but the
Google platform, which took a while to get used to, is getting better as she gets used to it; however, it is not as organized as Schoology. Jack stated it was helpful that the teachers and students had to launch distance learning at the same time because teachers were very understanding about this new territory. Migliaccio inquired about the cancellation of SATs and what might happen with the College Board. Jack stated he and his classmates are certainly disappointed. College Board is saying the next test available is in August and October. Jack said he likes that everything is on Google Classroom even though it was an adjustment and distance learning is much easier using that platform. Migliaccio inquired how he and his classmates are keeping in touch. He said some teachers have made it easier than others in having conversations with other students and it has been very easy to communicate with other students. Jenny Emery inquired if there is a sense that a lot of Granby kids are disengaged and if there is anything the board can do differently with that problem. Jack stated he thinks some students are disengaging; however, there are many students who want to do the work and get good grades. Dwaritha said she is aware of one or two students she has not seen on the online platform but all other students have been accounted for in her classes. Kate Hollister, sophomore at the high school, is working on her Eagle Scout project and one of the merit badges is citizenship. Kate stated she spoke with Grossman about distance learning and issues for students. She also attended the April 1 BOE meeting and has been doing research. It is much harder to obtain information but it is going as well as can be expected, and now getting easier. She feels she is missing out when other students ask questions of teachers because she does not hear the teachers’ answers.
Business Manager’s Report
Anna Robbins, business manager, presented the March statement of accounts. The March report is an unusual one with a prediction as of the end of March but also a forecast with no school for the rest of the year. If school resumes on May 20, there will only be 16 days left. The projection is assuming no expenses for the remainder of the year. The forecast was ($90K) if you look at March in the former capacity, which is almost $40K better than last month due to purchase orders starting to close. Going forward with distance learning, there are some savings and some increases, i.e., savings in expenses such as nursing services, transportation, supplies, substitute services, utilities, and conferences. There is a slight increase in software purchases. Some assumptions were made in the Q and D fund regarding enrichment activities, bus monitoring and support services. For revenues to the town, there is a reduction in building rentals and pay-for-participation fees. The Excess Cost Grant will likely be lower due to transportation savings. Assuming school resumes, the deficit created by special education will likely continue to shrink and is currently at ($90K). The projection if school does not recommence is built on a lot of variables and while there may be short-term savings due to programs not running, etc., there are also likely to be increased expenses related to coming back. None of this was built into the budget for next year. If the BOE ends up
with savings from this year, the town needs to know there will likely be increased expenditures next year.
Assistant Superintendent’s Report
Marian Hourigan, interim assistant superintendent, provided an update on Distance Learning. Teachers have done an amazing job during this time period using an online format. The district sent out a parent survey a few weeks ago and received very positive survey results with parents noting they appreciated the amount of personal contact the students have with their teacher via class meetings, co-teaching and special interest clubs in off hours. There is built-in time for students to do their work and teachers to correct their work. She told the board that Kelly Lane has a “Bucket Filling Day” and Wells Road has a “Wellsness Day” once a week to try new and different activities for learning. At the middle school there is a “Feedback Day” where one department per day will post new assignments so students can catch up on their past work and respond to their teacher’s feedback. At the high school teachers slow the pace and extend assignments over longer periods where appropriate. The district continues to update and refine the work it is doing at all levels to provide the best possible education at this time. Sarah Thrall commented her son, in 5th grade at Wells, was excited that today was Wellsness Wednesday. He baked cookies with his sister and from a parent’s perspective it was a nice break from a lot of time in front of the screen, so she applauds those efforts. Emery inquired if the district is reaching out to parents about technology. Hourigan stated the middle school will continue to reach out virtually to give lessons on Google Classroom. Migliaccio inquired if there is anything the board can do to help teachers find ways to improve this experience. Hourigan stated she feels Granby is way ahead of the curve as the district has been using technology with Chrome Books and that teachers work with one another and feel the board has been very supportive.
Dr. Rick Kirschbaum GENERAL DENTISTRY IMPLANTS
Dr. Rick Kirschbaum GENERAL DENTISTRY IMPLANTS
Dr. Vince Steniger GENERAL DENTISTRY
Consent Agenda
A motion was made by Weber and seconded by Emery that the Granby Board of Education adopt the minutes of the April 1 meeting. This motion passed unanimously.
Revision to 2020-21 School Calendar
The board discussed adding Friday, May 28, 2021 as a professional development day to the 2020-21 school calendar and move the last day of school to Wednesday, June 9, 2021. A motion was made by Migliaccio and seconded by Emery that the Granby Board of Education revise the 2020-21 school calendar to add a professional development day on Friday, May 28, 2021 and move the last day of school to Wednesday, June 9, 2021. The motion passed unanimously.
Dr. Jason Raney
ORTHODONTIC SPECIALIST
Dr. Jason Raney
ORTHODONTIC SPECIALIST
New Food Service Contract
The board discussed the approval of a new food service contract as recommended by the Finance/ Personnel/Facilities Subcommittee. A motion was made by Migliaccio and seconded by Peling that the Granby Board of Education accept the food service management company that was selected using the State of Connecticut mandated procedure and recommended by the Finance/Personnel/Facilities Subcommittee. Emery stated Granby was up for a new
BOE Minutes cont’d. on p. 11
Dr. Staci Allen
PEDIATRIC SPECIALIST
Dr. Jason Alliger ENDODONTIST
Dr. Matthew Lepowski GENERAL DENTISTRY
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June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 9
Focus on Education
Granby Road Race goes virtual
Jordan E. Grossman, Ed.D
Final days of the school year
I hope this message finds you and your family well. It was with a very heavy heart that I informed the community that Governor Lamont announced to the State of Connecticut on May 5, 2020, that all public schools will remain closed through the end of the school year. As a result, distance/remote learning will continue in the Granby Public Schools for the remainder of the school year. The last day of distance learning will be June 16, 2020, for all schools with the exception of Kelly Lane Primary School, which will end on June 17, 2020. Governor Lamont has established a Reopen Advisory Group dedicated to establishing guidelines for a safe, equitable and efficient return to school. At the Granby Board of Education meeting on May 6, I informed the board that a Reopening Task Force for the Granby Public Schools will be composed of Board of Education members, teachers, administrators, business official, special education official, town officials, medical professionals, facilities and technology personnel and parents. The Task Force will review the state guidelines when they are released and use them to assist in the reopening of the Granby schools. I will continue to update the community on any new developments regarding the reopening of school. The Granby Public Schools will continue to celebrate all 2019-2020 school year accomplishments. Principals are working with their respective staffs to replicate end-of-year activities to the highest level possible. Last week, Granby Memorial High School Principal, Mike Dunn, sent out plans to our senior class and families outlining the details for graduation. We will hold our first ever Granby Memorial High School Class of 2020 Graduation Diploma Processional and Virtual Ceremony on our scheduled graduation date of Tuesday, June 16, 2020. The State of Connecticut has approved our permit application allowing the Class of 2020 to meet for a car processional at 9:15 a.m. at Salmon Brook Park.
The procession will leave the park and proceed to the Granby Memorial Middle/ High School campus at 10 a.m. for students to receive their diplomas. Please note this is for seniors and their family. Only one car per family is allowed to be in the procession and on campus. That evening, we will broadcast the Granby Memorial High School Virtual Graduation Ceremony at 5:30 p.m., including the just announced faculty speaker, Mr. Scudder. We will provide more details regarding the Virtual Ceremony in the near future. Each year in the Granby Public Schools, we say goodbye to many talented staff members who are retiring. Below you will find the a list of staff members who will retire at the end of the school year. Susan Henneberry, principal, GMMS Philip Livsey, social studies teacher, GMHS Lisa Nilson, teaching assistant, GMMS Beth Spellman, kindergarten teacher, Kelly Lane Primary School Margaret Thibodeau, teaching assistant, Kelly Lane Primary School Additionally, the district recognizes staff members for 25 years of service. This year, the following staff members have attained that goal with Granby Public Schools: Jane Grant, teaching assistant, GMMS Jane Sullivan, teaching assistant, Kelly Lane Primary School The Granby Board of Education and the staff of the Granby Public Schools are committed to providing the best possible education for our students moving forward. I urge you to view our district website (granby.k12.ct.us) and (GPS Distance Learning) to learn more about our school district. I want to thank the entire Granby community for supporting our work during this most difficult time. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns at 860-844-5260 and follow me on Twitter @GranbySuper.
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION
The May 1–3 virtual road race attracted over 200 runners. The actual race is postponed until Sept. 19. Photo by Jake Koteen
The Granby Road Race Committee started meeting to plan the 49th Annual Road Race in November. We brainstormed ways to make the 2020 race better than last year and began to dream about what the 50th Annual Granby Road Race would look like (stay tuned for that). We worked with countless community members, sponsors and volunteers to set up for the big day. It was with great disappointment that we postponed the actual race until Sept. 19, but we knew it was best for the safety of the community. Our volunteer committee quickly began planning what a virtual race would look like and how we could get the word out. We sent emails, posted on social media tirelessly and met as a team virtually to work out any flaws that might arise. On May 1–3 we had our first virtual road race. We weren’t sure how our amazing community was going to receive or participate in this
but, as usual, our community did not disappoint. Over 200 people signed up to race—we had runners from 15 different states and two different countries participating! We were blown away by social media posts, tags, pictures, and comments showing your dedication to the YMCA. I think this experience and outpouring of love has us even more excited for the fall when we can all run physically near each other. We look forward to supporting our local farms, restaurants, and brewery (much deserved) after putting in the miles in September. In the meantime, we hope you continue to get out there and run as we begin to experience the gorgeous weather that spring brings. See you in September—register today ghymca.org/granbyroadrace Submitted by Kaytlyn Ferrando, Granby Road Race Volunteer Committee Member
SMALL TOWN SEPTIC inspects, cleans, installs and repairs your SEPTIC system!
Saturday, June 13, 2020 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Simsbury Public Works Facility 66 Town Forest Road, Simsbury Open to residents of Simsbury, Avon, Farmington, Canton, Suffield and Granby. Proof of residency required. Personal document shredding will be available from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or until truck is full. Two box limit per resident. Latex and oil paint do not need to go the hazardous waste collection. They are accepted at the Granby Transfer Station during hours of operation.
Questions? Call the Granby DPW (860) 653-8960.
860-653-TAKE (8253) Granby, CT 06035 • Fully Licensed & Insured
Page 10 The Granby Drummer
June 2020
June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 11
No waste here!
Youth Service Bureau The Youth Service Bureau provides counseling services, conducts psycho-educational groups for youth and their families, and develops and coordinates prevention and resiliency programs for youth within the community. For information, contact AnneMarie H. Cox, Youth Service Bureau Coordinator at 860-844-5355 or email her at AHCox@granby-ct.gov
Spring Greetings from the YSB
Rosia Kennedy (l.) and Sandy Flagg with one of three car loads full of food donated by Granby Stop & Shop patrons. The food was given to the Waste Not, Want Not kitchen that feeds more than 200 people each Wednesday. “This program is dear to my heart,” says Kennedy. Photo by Nate Chagnon
BOE Minutes cont’d. from p. 8 contract and has been with Sodexo for a while. The process is heavily scripted by the state. The rubric that was used to evaluate was reviewed in subcommittee. There were four bidders, one of which was disqualified. The administration made its recommendation and will move toward finalizing a contract. The high scoring vendor is Fresh Picks Café out of Vermont. They have been around since the 1990s and have impressed the administration as being innovative and energized. The motion passed unanimously.
BOARD REPORTS Finance/Personnel/Facilities
Emery reported this subcommittee met this evening. Reviewed states of the building projects. The building committee meets tomorrow for the first time in a while. If everything falls into place properly including state requirements, etc. we have the architect and hope to engage a contractor to work on the middle school this summer. High school still subject to review before architect can be selected. Unlikely that work would be undertaken before next year. In addition, the committee has gone out to bid for the rest of the projects, which will include some tradeoffs and will be talking about that tomorrow night as well. Makes sense to have a project manager to move the pieces along with the bidding, selection and state approvals needed every step of the way.
CREC/CABE
Fiorentino reported CREC met last week and stated a couple of labor agreements were ratified with the administrators for CREC and one with the teachers’ bargaining unit. He forwarded details on to Robbins and Grossman to help inform us as we go through the process. He stated although the Education
Commission got a fair amount of work done, they do not expect to take any action on any of the bills they worked on this session.
Granby Education Foundation
Emery stated she was pleased to see the email about soliciting artwork from students. It is a great opportunity for the GEF to get more of the students’ art and music shared with the community. Grossman stated he attended the meeting on Monday and the district is also trying to partner with the Senior Center and help seniors during this time and respecting social distancing. Emery mentioned the GEF Tribute Program which honors staff members and stated the program may take on new urgency this year due to the cancellation of the GranBee.
Board Member Announcements
Migliaccio thanked the entire board, teachers, administrators, and the community for being supportive during this time and she hopes Granby will be back in session soon. Weber thanked Henneberry for her service and stated how much she appreciates her leadership at the middle school as well as her quiet confidence and digging into data to understand the school and students to make improvements. Migliaccio said the board should invite retirees to a board meeting via Zoom to recognize them. Dwaritha commented she received an email about the grading options for the high school and thinks it is fantastic for students to have the pass/fail option and happy that other students can get rewarded for the work they are doing. Respectfully submitted, Rosemarie Weber, Board Secretary
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If you have been following us on social media, you know the YSB has maintained its counseling services. Our counseling vacancy has been filled and we welcome Alexis Neimann, MFT to our staff. Neimann worked with us six years ago when she was completing her internship, and we are delighted to have her back on a more permanent basis. In addition to counseling, we have been focusing on prevention education programming. Hopefully you have listened to some of the prevention podcasts available on the Farmington Valley Podcasts. We have addressed Adolescent Brain Development, Childhood Trauma, and Parenting during Anxious Times. Other relevant topics will be coming on a regular monthly basis.
Town Hall Talk cont’d. from p. 1
five years of studies and several proposals, but no firm, actionable offers, the town is now setting a course to more aggressively market the property. Once the broker successfully attracts a buyer or lessee with a reasonable offer, a Town Meeting will have to be conducted to authorize the sale of the property, per Town Charter. Property at 107 East St. (former Evonsion farm) has interest: John Prete of Agbotic, Inc. a “Smart Farm’ startup from Sackets Harbor, N.Y., has made a presentation to the BOS for the potential purchase and use of the former Evonsion Farm. The 125-acre property is currently under lease with a farmer, but Agbotic presented a plan to build a Smart Farm with 10 robotic, organic-soil-based greenhouses growing produce in 22 days from seed-to-pick. Prete reported that Agbotic has been operating six greenhouses in New York since last fall using its innovative processes and are expanding nationally. The company has not presented a formal purchase offer as yet and is reportedly looking at other sites in Connecticut and nationally. Granby residents running for State office: Expect to see three Granby residents on the Nov. 3 election ballot. Dr.
Many of us don’t have a clear picture of what “normal” is going to be as we begin to open the state. We plan to continue to follow the school system’s lead and only begin offering face-to-face programming when the schools open. Until that happens, we will look for needs we can address via distance connections and hope to offer some small group programs in the evenings later this summer. Sadly, our biggest positive youth development program, Open Rec nights, will not run until fall at the earliest. It is a larger group program that does not lend itself to social distancing. For up to date information about programming, check out the YSB page on the town website or call AnneMarie Cox at 860-844-5355.
Fred Moffa (D) will run for the 7th Senate seat against incumbent John Kissel (R) and two Granby residents are competing to become your next 62nd State Representative: Mark W. Anderson (R) and Audrey Meyer Lampert (D). Expect to hear more from them over the summer but maybe not as much door-knocking due to social distancing. Other News: Bear-resistant trash containers are almost sold out at DPW—a few are left for a $230 one-time fee. Construction of the roundabout at East St./Rte. 10-202/Notch Rd is off to a slow start but will pick up and local merchants are re-opening albeit slowly, including new outdoor dining alternatives. While it’s nice to be outside in the warm sun, we now need even more protection than a hat, water, sunglasses, sunscreen, mosquito repellant and tick-preventative measures. Add a mask, sometimes gloves. And have soap/disinfectant at the ready. Does it make you wonder how you, and all the generations before you, ever survived? Mother Nature is a potent force in our daily lives. Farmers know it. Now we all feel it, every day. Stay safe, and say ‘hi’ to your fellow neighbors, even if you can’t shake hands. —Jim
Page 12 The Granby Drummer
In Town Focus
Out of Town NEAM will open for Memorial Day weekend The New England Air Museum reopened its five-acre outdoor grounds for Memorial Day Weekend. Visitors had an opportunity to see 10 aircraft outside, peek inside exhibit hangars through open hangar doors, and get a behind-thescenes look into the museum’s storage hangar, a space that is rarely open to the public. This outdoor museum experience was free to visitors Saturday, May 23, through Monday May 25, with a suggested donation of $5 per person. Hours of operation were from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. all three days. To ensure the health and safety of the museum’s visitors, staff and volunteers, the museum followed all COVID-19 rules issued by Governor Ned Lamont and the Reopen Connecticut panel. No more than 200 people were allowed onsite at any time. “We are excited about this opportunity to welcome visitors back to our museum,” says Debbie Reed, the museum’s Executive Director. “We needed to find the right balance between keeping our visitors, staff and volunteers safe while also providing a great experience.
I believe the planning we have done will accomplish this,” Reed says. The New England Air Museum voluntarily closed its doors on March 14, to assist the state in its efforts to control the spread of COVID-19. In the weeks since, all of the museum’s interior spaces and exhibits have been thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. The museum’s staff has also continued working, primarily from home, to develop educational content for families and aviation enthusiasts across the region through its NEAMathome website and social media platforms. Until the State of Connecticut further relaxes the rules and allows for the opening of interior museum spaces, the New England Air Museum will continue to allow visitors to access its outdoor grounds following essential social distancing practices. Details of the plans for the remainder of the summer will be released shortly. The museum is located at 36 Perimeter Road (off Route 75) in Windsor Locks. For more information visit neam.org or call 860-623-3305.
Food Drive at Farmington Woods exceeds expectations The residents of Farmington Woods topped their goals for both food collection and donations at their Gifts of Love Food Drive on May 17. Residents donated 1,608 pounds of food (with a retail value of $3,000) and cash and gift cards that totaled more than $4,100. “We were hoping for cash donations of $2,000 so the drive far exceeded our expectations. We are so pleased with the generosity of the people who live in our community,” said drive organizer Mary Anne Maher. “We had cars streaming into the drive from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and our volunteers from Farmington Woods were able to load up the Gifts of Love truck, filling it to capacity.” Residents of Farmington Woods annually collect food and donations as part of their end-of-year golf tournament but decided to add a second drive based on Gifts of Love’s heightened need to meet the needs of those impacted by the coronavirus. Farmington Woods has been a supporter of Gifts of Love since 2006.
As the impact of the coronavirus deepens, Gifts of Love has had to meet an escalating need. Since the layoffs from the virus have started to affect workers, the Avon nonprofit has expanded its client base by 30 percent. Local residents have responded by stepping up drives and donations to help meet the need. If your group is interested in holding a food drive, contact Denise Phillips at 860-676-2323. Individuals wishing to donate food can bring it to the Gifts of Love office at 34 East Main Street in Avon. The donor should knock and leave the food, to comply with the need for social distancing. Or they can call Gifts of Love at 860-676-2323 to arrange a drop-off time. The organization is also turning to the community for financial support to help them meet the escalating need. Those wishing to donate should go to the “Donate Now” button on the organization’s website: GiftsOfLove.org
June 2020
Dog Licenses Dog owners must license their dog(s) every year, no later than June 30. See info box on page 4 of this issue for how to obtain licenses.
Women’s Breakfast
The program committee for the Granby Women’s Breakfast thanks all the ladies who took the time early in the a.m. to attend the breakfasts and programs these past months. Your support and enthusiasm for these monthly gatherings is so appreciated. We look forward to seeing you again on Sept. 9, when David Garnes, instructor at Manchester Community College, will give an entertaining talk entitled, 1939— Hollywood’s Greatest Year. Breakfast will start at 8:30 a.m. and the talk will begin at 9 a.m. Any questions, call Corinne Dickerson at 860-653-9891. Newcomers are most welcome, just ask for Corinne when you arrive.
MS Support Group
The Granby Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets at the Senior Center at 1 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month. For more information, please contact Meaghan at 860-428-2463.
Volunteers Needed
Mary’s Kitty Korner, Granby’s no-kill cat shelter, is looking for volunteers to help care for its kitties until they find their fur-ever homes. If you love cats and have some time to spare on a weekday morning or evening or on a weekend morning or afternoon, the shelter would love to hear from you. Call 860-379-4141 or visit the website to find out more: maryskittykorner.org
IMPORTANT DATES FROM THE REGISTRARS
NOW: Absentee ballot applications are being accepted by the Town Clerk for both the Aug. 11 primary and Nov. 3 election. Wednesday, June 3, 2 p.m. Registrars hosting a Zoom meeting, Voting Safely in 2020. Wednesday, June 11, 4 p.m. New deadline to submit signed primary petition pages to the registrars. Tuesday, Aug. 11 is the new date for the presidential and, if needed, state primary, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the GMHS community gym. Only registered party members can participate. The registrars (Laura Wolfe and Sonja Smith) are available every Wednesday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. While the Town Hall is closed to the public, you can contact them by phone (860-844-5322) or email (registrarofvoters@granby-ct.gov). Please note voter registration forms are also available online at the Secretary of State’s website: sots.ct.gov There is a link on our town website to check your voter registration and another link available to make changes online. The Drummer welcomes announcements of upcoming events sponsored by Granby organizations. Announcements may not exceed 120 words.
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by post: The Granby Drummer P. O. Box 165 Granby, CT 06035-0165
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editor@granbydrummer.org
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June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 13
GRANBY PLANNING & ZONING MINUTES APRIL 28, 2020 Present: Mark Lockwood (Chair), Jonathan Boardman, Margaret Chapple, Christine Chinni, Eric Lukingbeal, Eric Myers, Brennan Sheahan. Also present Interim Town Planner Dominick Caruso. M. Lockwood made opening remarks. Per Executive Order this meeting shall be held remotely; Commission members who speak shall introduce themselves first each time they speak; members of the public who wish to speak shall introduce themselves and state their address. D. Caruso introduced himself. M. Lockwood asked permission to add an item to the agenda under “Item 5: Receive application and set public hearings.” He stated an application for 103 Peterson Road is seeking a re-subdivision to create a one-building lot in an R-50 zone. File P-2-20. On A Motion by C. Chinni seconded by J. Boardman, the commission approved (7-0-0) to add an item to the agenda, Receive an Application, for property at 103 Peterson Road. File P-2-20.
Minutes
On A Motion by M. Chapple seconded by E. Lukingbeal, the commission voted (7-0-0) to approve the minutes of April 14.
Public Hearing
Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.5 for an accessory apartment for property located at 90 Granville Road. Applicants Celia and Michael Camilleri, 90 Granville Road, North Granby addressed the commission via Zoom. The Camilleris propose to construct an addition to the home that will include an accessory in-law apartment. The apartment will be approximately 770 square feet and will contain one bedroom, bathroom, living room and kitchen; it will be located at least 25 ft from neighbor and 100 ft from the road; outdoor lighting will meet and not exceed code requirements; one garage bay will be reserved for accessory apartment residents; approval was granted by Inland and Wetlands Commission. Applicant also stated FVHD has approved it. Lockwood reminded the applicants that a Special Permit remains with the property; property owner must reside at the premises. Caruso pointed out potential drainage issues with the proximity of the gravel driveway (3’) in relation to the neighbor’s property line. B. Sheahan raised a drainage concern of garage roof run-off. Caruso asked what the intended use of the space above the garage would be. Commission members asked questions about a fence. Answering commission members’ questions, M. Camilleri stated they no longer are proposing a room above the garage. C. Camilleri stated they will reuse an existing fence agreeable with neighbor. The commission agreed other concerns can be addressed by town staff. There was no public comment. The commission has 65 days to render its decision. Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.8 for a home occupation for a woodworking shop in an accessory building for property located at 261 Silver Street. Postponed from March 24. Applicant Ryan Hart, 261 Silver Street addressed the commission via Zoom. Hart explained details of his woodworking business—he makes cabinets and furniture; there are no additional employees on-site; all materials are stored inside; all work is done inside; no products are advertised for sale, and clients do not visit the home. While there is no traffic from clients, the applicant states there are deliveries of raw materials to the home once every few months by a truck no larger than a typical UPS delivery truck. The applicant delivers finished good to clients. Answering commission members’ questions, he added—it was recently brought to the staff’s attention that he was using his garage to operate his woodworking business; raw timber outside of the workshop is for the woodstove; hours of operation are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The work-shop doors are always kept closed, there has never been a noise complaint. Caruso added for the record—the following residents submitted letters of approval for this application: Paul and Oksana Dunn, 263 Silver Street; Cheryl Bragnoli, 267 Silver Street; Andrea Toland, 85 Silver Brook Lane. A fourth letter was unsigned and unverified.
There was no public comment. The commission has 65 days to render its decision. An application seeking a Special Permit for a re-subdivision in an R-50 zone to create one building for property located at 103 Peterson Road. The public hearing has been scheduled for May 26. Consideration of above applications where the commission has concluded the public hearing The commission discussed the application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.5 for an accessory apartment for property located at 90 Granville Road. Commission members agreed the application is consistent with other accessory apartment applications and the proposed application complies with the Zoning Regulations. It was noted concerns can be worked out with town staff. On A Motion by E. Myers seconded by J. Boardman the commission voted (7-0-0) to approve an application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.5 for an accessory apartment for property located at 90 Granville Road, File Z-11-20; with the following conditions: 1) relocate existing (or in-kind) fence in between applicant’s and neighbor’s property in the side yard that was reduced by the addition to the driveway; 2) a rainwater run off plan for sheet flow from driveway and roof run-off; 3) permit approval subject to Towns’ Building Official; 4) permit approval from FVHD. The commission discussed the application
seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.8 for a home occupation for a woodworking shop in an accessory building for property located at 261 Silver Street. File Z-10-20. Lockwood has visited this site. Several commission members who are familiar with and who have frequented this area stated they have never heard noise, detected smells or any type of a nuisance about this property. A discussion of hours of operation concluded applicant may work hours as necessary as long as woodworking remains indoors. On A Motion by Myers seconded by Boardman the commission voted (7-0-0) to approve an application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.8 for a home occupation for a woodworking shop in an accessory building for property located at 261 Silver Street. File Z-10-20; with the following condition: All wood-working activities including storage of materials to be conducted indoors at all times.
Staff Report and Correspondence
Lockwood welcomed Caruso. A note of congratulations was extended to A. Kenyon.
Commissioner Reports and Correspondence
Lockwood stated the commission will continue meeting once per month. Should pressing matters arise, the regularly scheduled first meeting of the month may be added to the schedule for accommodating workload. Respectfully submitted, Patricia Tappenden, Recording Secretary
Final good bye to Wayne Smith
Wayne Smith, age 81, passed away Gordon, the Granby kid.” peacefully at home on May 13 with BarWayne and Barbara married in 1966, bara, his loving wife of 53 and together they raised years, at his side. three sons: Timothy, SteWayne was born to Elisphen (Laura), and Kevin abeth and Leroy Smith on (Carrie). They have five Dec. 29, 1938. He grew beautiful grandchildren: up in Granby’s golden age Andrew, William, Nicholas, and was a proud lifelong Thomas, and most recently, citizen of the town. He baby Grace. Wayne is surgraduated from Simsbury vived by his sister Linda; High School, and went his brother-in-law and sison to earn BS and MS deter-in-law Brad and Linda grees at Hilliard College Lawrence, and his nephews (University of Hartford) Michael and Daniel, and in education, as well as a niece Johannah, and their Wayne Smith sixth year from Westfield beautiful families. State. In addition to his academic degrees, Donations in Wayne’s honor may be Wayne gained his radio license from the made to the Granby Ambulance AssoConnecticut School of Broadcasting, ciation. The family also thanks Trinity and he enjoyed working as a polka disc Home/Hospice Care for their kindness, jockey on weekends. He taught math compassion, and service. Funeral arwith great success and humor for 34 rangements have been entrusted to years at Henry James Memorial Middle Hayes-Huling and Carmon Funeral School in Simsbury; he also served as a Home in Granby. Because of COVID-19, team leader there for many years. After funeral services will be private, but the his retirement from teaching, Wayne refamily welcomes online condolences at turned to his beloved hobby of part-time carmonfuneral.com broadcasting under the name “Wayne
“Hope and fear cannot occupy the same space at the same time. Invite one to stay.”
TOOTH TALK by Michael Ungerleider D.M.D
IT IS TIME TO COME BACK! Q. I want my teeth cleaned and think I have a cavity, can I see my dentist yet? A. The short answer is YES! It all depends on the dental office, so you really should call to find out. The offices that are re-opening for routine care, including cleanings, fillings, crowns, implants, orthodontic treatment and TMD treatment, have secured the proper PPE for their team. There is still a scarcity of Personal Protective Equipment, but an office with at least a 4 week supply is ready to open. You can be assured that you will be safely taken care of and well protected by any cross contamination. Dental offices have been stringent with infection control ever since the late 1980’s when the outbreak of HIV occurred. All items used in the dental office are either single use or sterilized in a high pressure steam autoclave after each patient. Surfaces are wiped down with disinfectants that kill germs including the Corona virus. However, since dental drills and ultrasonics create aerosols, the health care workers in our office (dentist, dental hygienists, dental assistants) are at the highest risk. So, the changes you are likely to see are the use of face shields, head covers, higher protection masks, disposable gowns, shoe covers in addition to the gloves and eye protection we’ve always used. We will be practicing social distancing (limiting the number of patients in reception room) and you will likely see more barriers to prevent cross contamination. And remember, that we will always make it a priority to protect our patients and our office team while delivering safe and reliable health care 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. 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
Scan this symbol with your droid or iphone for a chance to win!
— Maya Angelou
South Church: Faith = Hope Enacted Join us some Sunday to discover how living faithfully can make a world of difference. We are an Open and Affirming Community. All are welcome! Worship Service at 10:00 a.m. Streamed until we can reopen.
242 Salmon Brook St., Granby, CT / (860) 653-7289 / www.southchurchgranby.org
Michael A. Ungerleider, DMD Vipasha Desai, DDS 41 Hartford Avenue, Granby 860-653-3220 Visit our website at: www.granbydentalcenter.com ADVERTISEMENT
Page 14 The Granby Drummer
Zoom-Based Events and Classes
Zoom programs are free, but you must pre-register by emailing senior@ granby-ct.gov Zoom Bingo Join us to play for Senior Center account credits that can be used for future programs. Tuesday, June 2, 10 a.m. Monday, June 8, 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 17, 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 24, 1 p.m. Zoom Knitting Club: Mondays at 11 a.m. Join our group of knitters as they share projects, patterns and conversation. Zoom History Lessons: Tuesdays, June 9 through July 14, at 10 a.m. Led by Jerry Perkin, retired adjunct instructor. This course will cover topics from the Pre-Columbian era to present day. The participants will aid in the selection of topics covered and will be discussion based. Possible topics include immigration, the presidency, civil rights, the Constitution, financial history, and any of America’s wars. The course will endeavor to analyze the causes and results of the topics studied. Register by June 2. For more information on class content please
The Senior Center will remain closed as we work with experts and officials to formalize a reopening strategy that is safe for everyone. The classes scheduled at the Senior Center for the end of June will have a maximum capacity of ten attendees if we have been cleared to open. We are happy to offer online programs in the interim. Should you need assistance with connecting to Zoom give us a call so we may assist in getting you started. You will need an internet connection and device: computer, laptop, iPad, smart phone. Please see listings below. You can call 860-844-5352 for more information or visit our website at granby-ct.gov/senior-services email perkyjer@yahoo.com Ordinary People, Yet Bible Heroes via Zoom: Tuesdays, June 9 through 30, at 1 p.m. Instructors Skip and Beth Mission. The challenges and responses of ordinary people in the Bible encourage the heart not to give up in adversity. The heroes will include Moses, Esther and Ruth, Peter and Paul. Register by June 2. Stress Management Techniques in These Crazy Times via Zoom: June 10, 1 p.m. Led by Tully Meyer, McLean Home Care and Hospice. Join us as we identify habits that both help and hinder our stress levels. Come prepared to share, grow and then seal our new self-care habits with a 5-minute guided meditation. Register by June 3. Senior Financial Abuse via Zoom:
WANTED
A campaign to raise awareness of and control invasive plants sponsored by Granby’s Conservation Commission
Alternatives to Invasive Plants Since October 2019 the Not Wanted Drummer column has profiled seven damaging invasive plants in Granby, describing how to identify and control them over time. Now it’s the peak of the planting season, and this month’s column lists Wanted plants—good alternatives to invasives. Alternatives usually grow in similar habitats as the invasives they replace. While they are often native species that grow well without a lot of human support once established, their growth is not unchecked like that of invasives: they grow in balance with other plants and animals. Most can be easily propagated by seed, division or cuttings and are readily available from nurseries and friendly neighbor gardeners. Purple Loosestrife alternatives: Blue Vervain Verbena hastata Cardinal Flower Lobelia cardinalis Fireweed Epilobium angustifolium Purple Coneflower Echinacea purpurea Japanese Barberry alternatives: Northern Bayberry Myrica pensylvanica Inkberry Ilex glabra Winterberry Ilex verticillata
Arrowwood Viburnum dentatum Mountain Laurel Kalmia latifolia Multiflora Rose alternatives: Arrowwood Viburnum dentatum Inkberry Ilex glabra Highbush Blueberry Vaccinium corymbosum Oriental Bittersweet alternatives: American Bittersweet Celastrus scandens Trumpet Honeysuckle Lonicera semperivirens Garlic Mustard alternatives: Rue Anemone Thalictrum thalictroides Cutleaf Toothwort Cardamine concatenata Bloodroot Sanguinaria canadensis Wild Ginger Asarum Canadense Japanese Knotweed alternatives: New England Aster Aster novaeangliae Joe Pye-weed Eupatorium pupureum Autumn Olive alternatives: Red Chokeberry Aronia arbutifolia Winterberry Ilex verticillata Silky Dogwood Cornus amomom For more information on invasive plants, events and the Not Wanted campaign, drop us a note on the Granby Conservation Commission webpage.
Thursday, June 11, 1 p.m. Presented by Czepiga, Daly, Pope and Perri. It could be as simple as a couple hundred dollars taken by a hired caretaker and as complicated as a trusted “loved one” persuading mom to hand over thousands of dollars. Attorney Andrew Veale will explain what elder abuse looks like and what the laws are in Connecticut. Register by June 2. Medicaid Asset Protection via Zoom: Thursday, June 18, 1 p.m. Presented by Czepiga, Daly, Pope and Perri. Get the latest information on understanding Medicaid and how to protect your assets from long-term care costs. Should you sign your home over to your children? What exactly is the five-year lookback? Plan ahead and make sure you are protected. Register by June 11.
Scheduled at the Senior Center
Provided latest safety guidance for older adults allows. Senior Frenzy: Thursday, June 25, 1 p.m. Presented by author Susan Smith. Senior Frenzy is humorous non-fiction for people who have recently discovered that they are senior citizens or have been so for a while and need a plan to cope on the road ahead. The author addresses with humor the reality of many areas
June 2020
of life where seniors find the changing world strange and even frightening. Register by June 18. Limited to 10 participants. Cost $5 members, $7 nonmembers. Amy Archer Gilligan, America’s Deadliest Female Serial Killer: Friday, June 26, 1 p.m. Presented by Joe Ouellette, the History Guy. This is a true story based upon the book, The Devil’s Rooming House, by M. William Phelps and takes place in nearby Windsor. Amy Archer Gilligan may have been responsible for up to 40 murders during the early 1900s. Many people say this story was the inspiration for Arsenic and Old Lace. See for yourself! Register by June 19. Limited to 10 participants. Cost $5 members, $7 non-members.
Health and Wellness
Alzheimer’s Support Group: The first Monday of the month at 1 p.m. Scheduled for June 1, but please call the Senior Center to confirm 860-8445350. Led by Peggy Coburn, McLean Home Care and Hospice. Caring for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming. Learning to cope with the changes in their behavior and understanding how to handle it is sometimes best explained by those who are dealing with a similar situation. Free. Senior Van Service: The Granby Senior Van will provide rides to essential medical appointments, grocery shopping, the bank and pharmacy. Please call 860-844-5350. Exercise: Senior Fitness Classes are available at facebook.com/ GranbyRecDept every Wednesday and Friday at 10:45 a.m.
Making memories for the Class of 2020
The senior t-shirt reflects the pandemic that changed the course of their last year at GMHS. Lost Acres Orchard provided cookies as a special treat. Photos by Lindsay Sessions and Michael Dunn
June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 15
Getting ready for graduation
What’s for Supper? Cottage Pie By Pamela Scherrer I was contemplating what to make for dinner a couple weeks ago and wanted to make something easy and new. I remembered my mom making a Shepherd’s Pie when I was young. I’ve never made one myself, so I took to the internet. I discovered that Shepherd’s Pie is made with lamb, while Cottage Pie is made with beef. Since I am not a fan of lamb, I made the Cottage Pie. I combined two recipes to get to this one. It came out great and was actually pretty easy. Ingredients 1 lb. ground beef 5 medium red potatoes ½ bag of frozen pearl onions 1 Tablespoon olive oil 1 Tablespoon butter ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup frozen peas 1 cup fresh or frozen green beans 1 cup fresh or frozen corn 1 cup diced carrots 2 Tablespoons flour ¾ cup beef broth 1–2 Tablespoons diced green onion Dash of Worcestershire sauce Salt and pepper to taste *optional—sliced mushrooms (add when you cook the onions) Directions Wash and chop red potatoes (skin on is optional). Boil potatoes in water for about 15 minutes till tender but still a little firm. Drain, mash with the butter, green onion and salt/pepper to taste. Put aside when done.
In fry pan, heat the oil, cook the pearl onions till soft and a little browned. Add beef and cook till browned. Add the flour, stir and cook 1 minute. Add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce and bring to boil, reduce heat, add the diced carrots and simmer 5 minutes. Spread the meat mixture in bottom of a 2 qt casserole dish. Layer the peas, green beans and corn on top of the meat. Top it all with the mashed potatoes, making sure that the potatoes cover and seal the layers below, sprinkle cheese on top. Bake at 375 for 20–30 minutes until golden brown. Buon Appetito!
Mark J. Migliaccio Attorney at Law
GMHS seniors were met with a surprise when they picked up their caps and gowns on May 20. Individual signs and banners adorned the entry drive into the school. Photos by Lindsay Sessions and Michael Dunn
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Page 16 The Granby Drummer
How We Can Be Here For You Between the pandemic and market volatility, you're sure to be facing a lot of stress. We're here for you - ready to listen, support and navigate this together. We have several ways to keep in touch. Give us a call.
Jim Hammel
MKT-12308-A
Financial Advisor 2 Park Place Suite 1a Granby, CT 06035 860-844-8515
edwardjones.com Member SIPC
June 2020
June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 17
A tribute to children’s librarian Lila Innes By Ken Kuhl Lila K. (Knapp) Innes, age 92, of Granby, passed away on Jan. 28, 2020, at home surrounded by her loving family after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Born in Bridgeport on Dec. 9, 1927, and raised in Stratford, Lila was married to Charles Innes for 65 years, until his death in December 2015. In Granby, her most important role was serving as the children’s librarian at the Frederick H. Cossitt Library for 34 years. One of her favorite roles was playing Mother Goose, a totally appropriate role for the children she loved. Lila could be seen many years as the Cossitt Library representative in the town’s annual Memorial Day Parade. She retired from her librarian position in 1999. Lila enjoyed reading, nature, birds, wildlife and gardening. She also loved to cook and bake for family and friends.
She was a popular member of the Granby Civic Club that had planned in March to have a group of folks gather to share thoughts and remembrances of their dear member, but like so many things, the gathering became a victim of COVID-19. Lila was a true Granby treasure who cherished her family, loved and served her community, always with laughter and giving. She was also an active member of the Salmon Brook Historical Society where she was a reliable and smiling volunteer. Although I did not know Lila, I have heard of parents in Granby who were in a panic because their young scholars “remembered” at 8 p.m. they had a report due the next morning. Countless times a call to the Cossitt Library found Lila still there. She simply collected the books necessary and had them ready for them when they arrived. She saved
the grades of many a Granby student over her 30 plus years as the evening librarian. Lila and Charlie built a summer home in Sandisfield, Mass. Charlie was mechanically inclined, which helped in the construction of their beloved camp. Together with Lila and four small children, he began the Lila Innes as Mother Goose project in 1957 and conkayaking. tinued to improve upon the structure Lila Innes will long be remembered for for decades. This was an ideal place to her smile and her many contributions to enjoy her interest in wildlife and nature the Cossitt Library and the wonderful as well as a great place for canoeing and quality of life we enjoy in Granby.
Hang-A-Quilt Day is June 20
In Memory Of... Crane, Dana W., 56, son of Janice Crane, Jan. 9 Alvestad, Edward O., 81, husband of Deborah M. Alvestad, April 7 Miller, Roberta Jane “Bonnie” (Spellman), 78, wife of George David Miller, April 11 Sakenfeld, Mara, 80, special friend of Albert Lyon, April 12 Davis, George H., IV, 62, April 22 Cahill-Sibbach, Donna, 64, wife of Steven M. Sibbach, April 24 Terry, Amy L., 93, April 25 Kuchenbrod, Norma (Cronemeyer), 86, wife of the late Harry Leonard Kuchenbrod, April 26 Russell, Cynthia Johnson, 85, wife of the late Walter Earle “Doc” Russell, April 28 Sturges, Sara M. (Tressler), 97, April 28 Dance, Mary Jane (McCarthy), 71, wife of the late Paul J. Dance, III, May 1 Knierim, Glenn E., husband of Gloria (Kehl) Knierim, May 9 Strickland, Elaine Peters, 81, May 10 Smith, Wayne G., 81, husband of Barbara (“Irish”) Smith, May 13 Bowman, Lucille “Lucy” (Geyer), 89, wife of the late Peter Bowman, May 17
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Quilts on display as a part of 2019 Connecticut Hang-A-Quilt Day. Others can be viewed at FVQuilter.org Submitted photo
Farmington Valley Quilters is sponsoring the second Connecticut Hang-A-Quilt Day on Saturday, June 20, with a rain date of Sunday, June 21. This free outdoor quilt exhibit will showcase the art and beauty of quilting. Everyone who owns a handmade quilt is encouraged to display it outside their home on a fence, clothesline, railing, tree, garage, chair, or any other creative way to display it. Your neighbors who drive or walk by will enjoy its beauty. Ask a local business if you can display your quilt for the day. There is no fee or registration.
O’Brien
Last year quilts were displayed all over Connecticut. This year we may not be able to gather for an event, but we can add fun and beauty to Connecticut. Susan Elliott, past president of Farmington Valley Quilters, said, “Let’s make Connecticut fun and do our part in making a brighter, art filled world!” If you participate, please post a picture of your quilt on social media with #CTHangAQuiltDay; everyone will be able to enjoy it no matter how confined we are.
Nurserymen Open Garden Days June 5, 6 & 7 Heavily Budded Mt. Laurels June 12, 13 & 14 Exotic Arisaemas, Japanese and Chinese species June 19, 20 & 21 Cool, Floating Foliage of our Variegated Redbuds June 26, 27 & 28 Polygonatums, Many Special Solomon Seals
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 18 The Granby Drummer
June 2020
Browse & Borrow Granby Public Library System The Granby Public Library continues to offer many of its services, including programming, reference help, and circulation, even though the buildings are closed to the public until further notice. Members of the library staff continue to work on-site and are available to answer your questions by phone (860-8445275) and email (GranbyLibrary@ granby-ct.gov) between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Friday. While the buildings are closed, Granby residents are encouraged to use the library’s “third location,” which is open 24/7. Through the library website (granby-ct.gov/library) you can access digital services any time, such as online classes, eBooks and eMagazines, Consumer Reports, Ancestry, and more. New titles are being added to the digital collections weekly. Don’t have a library card? Register for your free library card on the library website or by calling the library.
Virtual Program List—June
To register for any virtual program, sign up online at granby-ct.gov/library. Program participants will receive a confirming email with the information needed to access the webinar. Questions? Please call 860-844-5275 or email gplibrary@granby-ct.gov More free library programs may be added to the library calendar at any time. For the latest information, check the library’s website and be sure to sign
up to receive the library’s eNewsletter.
Adults, teens, tweens and families
EFT Tapping Group: Monday, June 1, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is said to help people overcome anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, traumatic memories, grief, and emotional or physical pain. Known as tapping, the process is a powerful procedure used by tens of thousands of practitioners around the world. Certified instructor Cris Jacobs leads a virtual group session. Registration required. Writer’s Group: Tuesday, June 9, 6–7:30 p.m. Fiction writers are invited to attend a virtual gathering to hone skills and share techniques. Each session features a variety of activities including writing prompts, sprints and critiques. Registration required. Succession Sowing in Short Seasons: Wednesday, June 10, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Would you love to cut fresh salad greens every day? Harvest enough basil for pesto every week? Enjoy peas all the way to frost? With the right timing, tools and seeds, it’s easy to surround yourself with garden abundance all summer long. Join life-long gardener Petra PageMann, co-founder of Fruition Seeds, sharing everything she’s learned about succession sowing in short seasons. Registration required. Marinating 101: Monday, June 15, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Did you know that marinating foods offers health benefits
Granby Public Library staff visited Sweet Pea Farm to offer a virtual story time for patrons. Photos by Olivia Johnson
as well as making grilled foods tasty and tender? Learn more and get recipes from caterer Sarah Cowles-Gentile of The Whisk. Registration required. DNA and Your Family Tree: Tuesday, June 23, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Have you heard about DNA testing for genealogy, but you’re not sure what it can do for you? Learn about the different types of DNA tests from professional genealogist Jennifer Zinck and connect the branches of your family tree. Registration required. Granby Grows: Granby Public Library and Granby Agricultural Commission are bringing the experts to you. Join us for a series of webinars this summer, featuring local farm and garden professionals. Each program in the series speaks to agricultural and
environmental topics, and includes an opportunity for Q & A. Look to the library’s website and Facebook page for updates. Registration will be required. Take and Make: The library’s Crafters Café series for adults and teens moves to curbside pickup. Maker supplies and instructions will be available to those who register. Supplies limited; sign up early.
Children and Families
While the library building are closed, our goal is to connect with the children in our community by holding virtual library events, sharing the resources we find online, and promoting reading through our digital collections. Be sure to check the library’s calendar and Facebook pages to see the latest in our virtual programming. Sign up for our
Browse & Borrow cont’d. on p. 19
Granby’s Pediatric Dentist!
Dr. Staci Allen
Board Certified Pediatric Specialist
Paddington Bear keeps watch over the books at Cossitt Library. Photo by Holly Johnson
Amy McCue, Library Director, works to phase in additional library services for the spring and summer. Photo by Holly Johnson
Handicap Accessible Special Needs Patients Hospital Dentistry
General Dentistry, Implants, Root Canals, Orthodontic and Pediatric Specialists
ALL UNDER ONE ROOF!
Call or Text: (860) 653-7596 www.granbydental.com
June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 19
Anderson joins the Foxfield F.A.R.M. advisory board
Registrars
Foxfield F.A.R.M. (For A Recovery Mission) Foundation is proud to announce that Mark W. Anderson has joined its advisory board. Anderson is a retired Army Reserve Lieutenant Colonel and is a candidate for Connecticut state representative (R) in district 62, which includes Barkhamsted, Granby, Hartland and New Hartford. Anderson’s dedication to military service and desire to continue contributing to the success of Connecticut is especially important to the support that he can provide to Foxfield’s groundwork equine education program. The program addresses the issues of PTSD confronting U.S. Veterans and First Responders. Mark W. Anderson
Browse & Borrow cont’d. from p. 18 eNewsletter to have the latest information sent to your inbox! Summer Reading Program: Summer is almost here, and that means it is time for Summer Reading. The library doors may be closed, but we’ve still got a great summer planned full of fun activities and plenty of good books for children ages 0–18, and the adults in their lives. Watch the library website for all the details as registration for our Summer Reading Program begins this month. Virtual Story Time: Watch Miss Heather and Miss Joan present Stay-
at-Home Story Times all month long. Check the calendar and the library’s Facebook page for their latest reading adventures. Notes From Miss Joan: Miss Joan is missing her library friends, so she regularly posts messages to children on the GPL website and Facebook pages. Children are invited to write back to Miss Joan via her email (jbeatson@ granby-ct.gov) or c/o the Granby Public Library at 15 North Granby Road, Granby, CT 06035.
Donated book collection postponed By Del Shilkret The Friends of the Granby Public Library have researched whether donations for the Used Book Sale can begin as normal on June 1. This decision is based upon state and local guidelines related to social distancing, gathering limitations, availability of our normal spaces at the Granby Public Library and Holcomb Farm and, primarily, the safety of our volunteers and donors. The additional need to quarantine and even sanitize boxed items for a period of time adds an additional constraint on what we can do.
Supporting a Caring Community since 1960. granbycommunityfund.com
To gain party affiliation, you can go online and fill out a voter registration card and check the box marked “party enrollment change”. Be sure to write in a political party. The website is available 24/7 at: voterregistration.ct.gov/OLVR/ welcome.do The registrar’s office will be closed to the public if the town hall is still on lock down due to the pandemic. However, you can knock on the door, and use the cart outside of the building to fill out the form if you prefer to register in person. Party membership does not cost anything, nor are party members obligated to vote along party lines. There is a 90-day waiting period for those switching political parties to attain party privilege, so it is too late to switch for the Aug. 11 primary. The 90-day deadline does not apply to unaffiliated and new voters; they can register to join a major political party up until noon on Aug. 10. The primary in August will also be an opportunity for potential municipal and state candidates to contest their party’s nominee. As of this writing, no one has yet qualified to primary but both parties still have presidential candidates contesting the front runners. Democratic candidates who qualified to have their delegates be on the Aug. 11 ballot: Joe Biden, Tulsi Gabbard, and Bernie Sanders, (and Uncommitted). Michael Bloomberg, Pete Buttigieg, Amy Klobuchar, Tom Steyer and
Elizabeth Warren have all officially withdrawn. Republican candidates who qualified to have their delegates be on the Aug. 11 ballot: Rocky De La Fuente and Donald Trump, (and Uncommitted). Bill Weld has officially withdrawn. Poll workers are on the frontlines for democracy On June 3, the registrars will host a Zoom meeting to discuss Voting Safely in 2020. This program is for poll workers and, if successful, will be repeated for voters. The registrars will use this to test using Zoom for online local training, as well as discuss the many serious issues that need to be addressed to ensure the safety of poll workers. Past, present and future poll workers have been sent invitations. Poll workers can be volunteers or paid. Volunteer poll workers must be at least 16 years old and can choose to volunteer for a few hours, as desired to fit their schedules. If you would like to be added to their list or if you did not receive the poll worker information eletter, please contact the registrars at: registrarofvoters@granby-ct.gov Poll worker training will be done in late July and early August for the presidential/state primary, and again in October for the Nov. 3 election. Poll worker training is required to serve. For more information or to apply please contact the registrars at: registrarofvoters@granby-ct.gov
Drumrolls
We do not believe there is enough information and data available from the experiences of other states that have or will be opening in late May to make an informed decision at this time. As a result, the Friends of Granby Public Library will reevaluate the situation in mid-June and make a decision by June 20 about whether the Used Book Sale will be held. Please—do not bring any donated items to the library, to Geissler’s, or the YMCA until a decision to hold the sale is announced. Any items that are left will be discarded. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Noah Goddard was named to the dean’s list at Westfield State University for the fall 2019 semester. Goddard is a communications major. Haley Terva, GMHS class of ’18, was named Little East Conference Goaltender of the Week in March. Terva is a member of the Keene State College women’s lacrosse team. Hunter Allen Everett, of North Granby, graduated in May from the University of Mississippi with a bachelor of business administration degree, major in economics. Sarah Cusano was accepted to the dean’s list for the spring semester at the University of Connecticut, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Parker Berberian, of Granby, graduated magna cum laude with a BSCS degree in computer science from the University of New Hampshire. Keith Marlor, of North Granby, graduated with a BA degree in communication from the University of New Hampshire. Nicholas Kenney and Taylor Spica, both of North Granby, graduated with BS degrees in business administration/ management from the University of New Hampshire. Jacob Audet and Nicole Gosselin, both of East Granby, were named to the dean’s list at the University of New England for the spring semester. Melena Kopf, of Granby, was named to the dean’s list at Nazareth College for the spring semester.
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Page 20 The Granby Drummer
June 2020
And the beat goes on for the Marquis of Granby By Polina R. Crotty Where there is a will, there is a way. Adjusting to the new normal, the Marquis of Granby Ancient Junior Fyfe and Drum Corps has been marching on. Much more quietly, and without its well-known pageantry, but marching on, nonetheless.
Weekly practices have been occurring using web conferencing tools since the end of March, with creative guidance from the corps’ director and other board members. The musicians have not missed a beat with most able to attend practice every
James Lee Loomis was a Granby success story By Todd Vibert The historic houses in Granby have sheltered many prominent individuals, but none more so than those along Salmon Brook Street. As you drive south past the center green, you’ll notice a large American Gothic-style house on your right. It is the former family home of Connecticut attorney and President of Connecticut Mutual Life Insurance Company, James Lee Loomis. In the early 1900s, James Lee Loomis was working out of his father’s store, the general store in the center of Granby, and was getting bored. He had received his bachelor’s degree from Yale University in 1901 and wished to do more. When he asked his father if he could go to law school, the senior Loomis said, “If you go, you are going to pay your way.” Loomis was accepted into Yale Law School and would go on to become a prominent Connecticut attorney. To pay for his education, he rented two apartments in New Haven and rented rooms to freshman students. After his second year of law school, Loomis took a job collecting delinquent accounts for the Hartford Businessmen’s Association. His work impressed Lucius Robinson, a well-known attorney in Hartford, as well as a member of the Board of Directors of the Connecticut Mutual Life Insurance Company. After Loomis graduated from Yale Law and passed the bar in 1905, he started work in a small law firm. However, Robinson kept in touch with Loomis and, in 1909, persuaded him to join Connecticut Mutual as an assistant secretary. Loomis excelled as Assistant Secretary and would climb the corporate ladder, becoming vice president of the company in 1919 and, seven years later, president. In his 19 years at the helm of Connecticut Mutual, he increased its value from $67 million in assets to $724 million. He helped the company survive not only the Great Depression of the 1930s but also the Second World War. From working in his father’s general store to president of the sixth largest insurance company in the country, James Lee Loomis was a true Granby success story. In 1945, Loomis retired as president and became chairman of the board for
James Lee Loomis
four years—but his contributions did not stop there. His involvement with several organizations included being on the Boards of Directors for the Phoenix and Fire insurance Company, Hartford County Mutual Fire Insurance Company, First National Savings Bank, Simsbury Bank and Trust Company, the Colt Manufacturing Company, the Hartford Courant, and president of the Board of Trustees at the Loomis School in Windsor. While Loomis served on those boards, he remained loyal to his hometown with his involvement and leadership with the Granby Cemetery for many years. As Polly Hall wrote in her chapter of The Heritage of Granby, “The person having the longest and closest association with the Granby Cemetery is James L. Loomis. He has been an incorporator, shareholder, lot owner, Treasurer, President, and legal advisor.” He would invite the Directors of the Cemetery to his cow barn (see note) and have a supper before their annual meeting. Want to learn more about James Lee Loomis? Join the Salmon Brook Historical Society and help celebrate its 75th year as an organization. Contact us at salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com or 860-653-9713. Editor’s Note: The “cow barn” was the Loomis’ outdoor living room and it was shared for all sorts of community events including ice cream and strawberry shortcake socials.
First Congregational Church of Granby 219 North Granby Road; 860-653-4537 “A safe place to explore who you truly are…… and who God is calling you to be.”
www.firstchurchgranby.org View Sunday Worship Service live at 10 am; also recorded. Weekday devotionals, bible study, prayer, book groups.
week. As a parent of a beginner drummer, it has been uplifting to see the group maintain its caring ways. The older members offer support and tutelage to the less experienced musicians at every opportunity. Playing their instruments in their bedrooms, kitchens, basements or backyards, weather (and neighbors) permitting, the kids are apart yet together, committed to learning and practicing. And although marching practice has been suspended, the board, with the junior board members’ input, is brainstorming how to best resume musket drills. The dedication of the teachers deserves mention. While the more experienced musicians are able to work on more challenging pieces in smaller online practice groups, the newer members have been able to schedule lessons with their fyfe or drum teacher and receive flexible individualized instruction. Hats off to the instructors for their ability to adapt and help the kids stay focused and motivated. Without any parades in their immediate future, it can be difficult to stay motivated. Beginning with the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade on March 22, eight events in the corps’ busy calendar have been canceled, and more cancellations are expected. In its 50 years of existence,
Shannon McCord leading Zoom practice. Photo by Kent McCord
Marquis has never seen such significant loss in revenue. As of the time of this writing, it is hard to know what the future will look like. When will the corps be able to march all together again, performing its signature maneuvers in streets lined with audiences? Soon, we all hope. And thanks to the support of the community and the dedication of all involved, the strength of this unique organization and its mission are here to stay.
Werner receives AVMA Animal Welfare Award On May 15 the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) honored Dr. Harry Werner of North Granby, as the winner of the 2020 AVMA Animal Welfare Award. The award is presented to an AVMA member veterinarian in recognition of their achievement in advancing the welfare of animals via leadership, public service, education, research and product development, and advocacy. “For more than 40 years, Dr. Werner has represented the profession as a passionate advocate for animal welfare, becoming a trusted authority in the field and earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues along the way,” said Dr. John Howe, president of the AVMA. “He is a true leader in animal welfare and very deserving of this honor.” An animal welfare authority, Werner has served the veterinary profession for more than four decades as a solo practitioner in rural Connecticut and as a volunteer for several national organizations, including the AVMA, the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), the World Equine Veterinary Association, the Right Horse Initiative and the Unwanted Horse Coalition. Werner has served as the AAEP’s representative to the AVMA’s Animal Welfare Committee and represented the AVMA and AAEP on the Unwanted Horse Coalition.
Werner currently serves as consulting veterinarian for Grand Prix Equine in Hawleyville, Conn. He was practice owner and veterinarian for Werner Equine from 1979 until earlier this year, when the practice merged with Grand Prix. For his contributions and leadership in the equine industry and his efforts in improving equine wellbeing, Werner was elected to the International Equine Veterinarians Hall of Fame in 2013 and awarded the AAEP’s Distinguished Life Member Award in 2017. In 2016, the Seth and Lucy Holcombe estate established the Dr. Harry Werner Professorship in Equine Medicine at the New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine—a position dedicated to teaching, research and clinical outreach in equine welfare and wellbeing. In 2015, he was named Veterinarian of the Year by the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Association. “Dr. Werner’s dedication, excellent communication skills, and the innate ability to maneuver around and through emotional and oftentimes misunderstood welfare conditions are his greatest strength,” said Dr. Tom Lenz, recipient of the 2010 AVMA Animal Welfare Award. “But it is his passion and sincere belief in the wellbeing of all animals that truly drove him to be the success that he is.”
June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 21
Historic Footnotes Carol Laun
Archivist, Salmon Brook Historical Society
A Chinese puzzle
Sometimes in history two seemingly unrelated events will fit together to solve a puzzle—and also add another fascinating footnote to the history of Granby. In 1835, in Macao, a young Chinese peasant boy was enrolled in a missionary school. In 1963, in Granby, the autograph book of Henry G. Viets was donated to the Salmon Brook Historical Society by Mary Phelps Cotton. The first tenuous connection formed a few years later when I examined the autograph book looking for examples of calligraphy. Two pages had calligraphy of a very different kind—Chinese characters, and the autographs of Tan Sz Tsung and Chin Kee Yung. What were two Chinese boys doing in rural Granby in 1873? A closer look at the rest of the autograph book indicated that most of the signatures were of schoolmates of Henry Viets. “F. N. Loomis, Granby Academy, Winter Term” “Truly yours, M. E. Seymour, Tariffville, CT, Granby Academy, Feb. 5th ‘74 Winter Term” “Hattie A. Newton, Winter Term, Jan. 7, 1873” “Cordially Your Friend and Teacher, T. D. Murphy, Granby, Feb. 10, 1873. Henry Gervase Viets, son of Julius G. and Mary (Gillett) Viets, was born in 1855. He attended the Granby Academy in Granby center. He served in the state legislature, had a large tobacco farm in the Hungary District, and held many town offices, including the post of Tax Collector for 30 years. He married Granby teacher, Amanda Clark, in 1880. They had no children. Viets died in 1933 at the age of 78. The Granby Academy was a private select school (high school) held on the second floor of the newly constructed (1871) library building on Salmon Brook Street (site of Farmington Valley Visiting Nurse building). Rev. Thomas D. Murphy conducted the school for local and boarding students. He had been the minister at First Congregational Church since 1868. About the time the Academy was opened, Murphy bought two acres of land from Samuel Benjamin for $200. He had his home built just north of the library building (250 Salmon Brook Street). The files of the Connecticut Historical Society revealed more information about the Chinese students. Yung Wing, the Chinese peasant boy in Macao, attended missionary school for nine years. When the missionary, Dr. Samuel Robbins Brown, returned to his home in East Windsor in 1847, he brought three Chinese students with him, the first Chinese to ever travel to the United State for an education. The boys were placed in an Academy in Monson, Mass. One went back to China, a sponsor sent one to college in Scotland and Yung Wing attended Yale, the alma mater of his mentor, Dr. Brown. Yung’s education at Yale convinced him that the way to modernizing China was to educate its future leaders in America. After graduation, he returned to China, but it took him 17 years before he realized his dream. In 1871, the Chinese Educational Mission was organized. It was planned to
send 120 students, 30 each year between 1872 and 1875, to study science, technology and military affairs. Each student was to stay for 15 years, so the chosen boys were young, between the ages of 12 and 15. Chinese teachers were to accompany the students and continue their lessons in the Chinese language and culture. Because of his own experiences, Yung Wing returned to New England with the mission. It was decided to place the students, by twos, in private homes in Massachusetts and Connecticut, to help them assimilate and learn English quickly. The mission headquarters was in Springfield, temporarily, but was moved to Hartford in 1872. The first group of 30 students arrived in September 1872, and two boys were sent to Granby. Other than the autographs asking Henry Viets to “remember” them, no trace of their stay has been found. It is not known what family they lived with in Granby, or how long they attended Granby Academy. An 1893 Springfield newspaper clipping described the way it might have been in Granby some 20 years earlier. “So there were placed in the best families in Massachusetts and Connecticut some ‘cunning little Chinese boys’ who attracted considerable attention from their quaint ways and queer costumes. Their clothing soon became somewhat modernized, consisting of their broad flowing trousers, blouses and small caps. They soon learned to tuck their queues behind their collars to conceal them as much as possible. “They soon gave evidence of being of a remarkably studious nature. It was indeed aggravating to the ordinary young American to find himself beaten in studies by a strange-looking, almondeyed personage, and the intruders were not treated any too well in consequence. He soon won his way to favor, however, especially when it was discovered that his queer gown did not prevent him from taking an active part in all American sports in which he excelled as easily as he did in the studies.” Tracing the boys after they left Granby posed some problems. The unfamiliar Chinese names were sometimes spelled incorrectly, or even phonetically, in the newspapers. Further discrepancies occurred because Cantonese and Manchu spelling is different. Chin Kee Yung was in Granby less than two years. He registered in Hartford Public High School on May 15, 1875, transferring from West Middle School in Hartford. He was then nearly 16 years old, and his guardian was a teacher, Miss C. Goldthwait, who lived at 203 Sigourney Street. Chin was a fine student. His grades in 1876 were 9.8 for scholarship and a perfect 10.0 for attendance and deportment. He was a classical major. Evidently Tan Sz Tsung was less of a scholar. He was not admitted to Hartford Public High School until May 14, 1877, at the age of 18. He also transferred from West Middle School and had the same guardian as Chin. Meanwhile, the Educational Mission was in trouble. The students were criticized for becoming too American and neglecting their Chinese studies. Furthermore, they were consorting
Granby Academy, built 1869, located on the site of the present VNA building. Rev. Thomas Murphy, a teacher in the Academy, is standing in front of the house at 250 Salmon Brook Street. Photos from Salmon Brook Historical Society archives. Reverse of photo (below) shows the names of those gathered at the Academy.
with American “devil girls.” Added to this was the refusal of the United States Government to allow the students to enter West Point or Annapolis. Another strong factor was the attitude of California and Congress toward Chinese immigrants, calling them “the yellow peril.” In 1881, despite the pleas of prominent leaders such as former President Grant and Samuel Clemens, the Chinese government terminated the Mission. One of the former Granby students had returned to China prior to that. Tan Sz Tsung was dismissed from the junior class November 25, 1879 for non-attendance. He entered the naval service in China. Chin Kee Yung left Hartford Public High School during his senior year. On April 18, 1879, he was chosen for “special study.” When the students were called home, he had just entered Sheffield Scientific School of Yale University. Upon his return to China, he
passed the exam for naval service and became a ship’s officer. The final chapter on the Granby Academy students from China was found in another old newspaper clipping in the Connecticut Historical Society files. On August 23, 1883, 24-year old Chin Kee Yung died of typhoid fever at Foo Chow, China. During his last hours, expupil and fellow student, Tan Sz Tsung, was at his side. Although cut short, the Chinese Education Mission was not a failure. It marked the passing of China’s policy of seclusion. Many of these students became leaders in China, introducing technical and cultural changes. Despite political difficulties, these students gave China her first engineers, doctors, builders of railroads, diplomats and military leaders. It was a magnificent experiment, and Granby was a part of it.
Page 22 The Granby Drummer
Donation made to Oak Hill School Special Ed Art Department The Sylvia Davis Patricelli Fine Arts Scholarship Non-Profit Foundation has made a donation to the Oak Hill School Special Education Art Department, which will be used to purchase a variety of materials to provide inspiration and creative stimulus to students who find imagination a constructive part of their therapy program. The foundation was established in
memory of Sylvia Davis Patricelli, an internationally acclaimed portrait painter from Australia whose first exhibition in the U.S. was sponsored by First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, WTIC and the Wadsworth Athenium. To hear Mrs. Roosevelt’s speech at the opening ceremonies, visit sylvadavisart.org, and consider making a donation.
Ashley (l.) and Carlton (r.), are art students at Oak Hill School. Submitted photos
Remembering My Father As we are growing up, our fathers teach us many things and give us the love of their hearts. On Father’s Day we remember them and thank them for all the ways they have made us who we are today. On summer evenings after supper, my father would play catch with me in the backyard. He also gave me his interest in baseball and taught me how to read the team standings in the Daily News—especially of my beloved Brooklyn Dodgers. I loved working with my father in the yard and enjoyed painting the trellis where the sweet peas would grow come summer. When I was older, he taught me so many things like how to check the oil, the radiator, and the tires of our car. But, of all the things he taught or gave me, his love of flowers and gardens was the most treasured. We had a tiny yard, but it was always filled with the colors of beautiful flowers. Most of our annuals we grew from seed, and with him I watched the miracle of a seed coming to life. To this day, the pungent smell of marigolds on my fingers brings me back to my childhood days. I loved the daffodils he planted along the chain link fence the neighbor put up, and I loved the lavender irises we took to the cemetery on Memorial Day. He loved driving the big Cadillacs he drove as a chauffeur, but sadly, he never had a new car of his own. That’s why he spent so much time teaching me how to take care of our older cars. When he died, he was buried in a part of the cemetery where you could hear the traffic of the NY Thruway whizzing by. Everyone said he would have loved this spot. Take time this Father’s Day to thank your father for all he has given you to enrich your life. —Bernadette R. Gentry
June 2020
Sticking to a budget can boost your emergency fund By Edward Jones During the coronavirus pandemic our health concerns, for ourselves and our loved ones, have been at the top of our minds. But financial worries have been there, too, both for people whose employment has been affected and for investors anxious about the volatile financial markets. And one aspect of every individual’s total financial picture has become quite clear—the importance of an emergency fund. Even in normal times, it’s a good idea for you to keep three to six months’ worth of living expenses in a liquid, low-risk account. Having an emergency fund available can help you cope with those large, unexpected costs, such as a major car repair or a costly medical bill. Furthermore, if you have an adequate emergency fund, you won’t have to dip into your long-term investments to pay for short-term needs. These investment vehicles, such as your IRA and 401(k), are designed for your retirement, so the more you can leave them intact, the more assets you’re likely to have when you retire. And because they are intended for your retirement, they typically come with disincentives, including taxes and penalties, if you do tap into them early. However, as part of the economic stimulus legislation known as the CARES Act, individuals can now take up to $100,000 from their 401(k) plans and IRAs without paying the 10 percent penalty that typically applies to investors younger than 59½. If you take this type of withdrawal, you have up to three years to pay the taxes and, if you want, replace the funds, beyond the usual caps on annual contributions.
Of course, life is expensive, so it’s not always easy to put away money in a fund that you aren’t going to use for your normal cash flow. That’s why it’s so important to establish a budget and stick to it. When developing such a budget, you may find ways to cut down on your spending, freeing up money that could be used to build your emergency fund. There are different ways to establish a budget, but they all typically involve identifying your income and expenses and separating your needs and wants. You can find various online budgeting tools to help you get started, but, ultimately, it’s up to you to make your budget work. You may be pleasantly surprised at how painless it is to follow a budget. For example, if you’ve budgeted a certain amount for food each month, you’ll need to avoid going to the grocery store several times a week, just to pick up “a few things,” because it doesn’t really take that many visits for those few things to add up to hundreds of dollars. You’ll be much better off limiting your trips to the grocery, making a list of the items you’ll need and adhering to these lists. After doing this for a few months, see how much you’ve saved—it may be much more than you’d expect. Besides using these savings to strengthen your emergency fund, you could also deploy them toward longer-term investments designed to help you reach other objectives, such as retirement. Saving money is always a good idea, and when you use your savings to build an emergency fund, you can help yourself prepare for the unexpected and make progress toward your long-term goals.
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June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 23
Eric Clapprood named new YMCA Board chair Eric Clapprood, long-time Granby resident and principal at Deloitte Consulting, LLP, is the new board chair for the YMCA Greater Hartford. The YMCA is excited to have Clapprood in this new role and look forward to the dynamic and innovative leadership he will bring to the organization. When asked about his new leadership role and the impact he hopes to make, Clapprood said, “Leading the YMCA of Greater Hartford is a tremendous honor. Our ecosystem—comprised of management, volunteers, members and corporate partners—is incredibly talented, passionate and committed to the Y’s focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Those pillars have never been more important than they are today, as our society looks to recover from historic challenges by maximizing wellness and safety for our entire community. I look forward to continuing to engage the service area our 13 facilities across northern Connecticut comprise. Our greatest impact will be increasing educational, health, camping and other services to those of all ages and income levels across the 50,000-plus customers we serve daily.” Harold Sparrow, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Hartford, said, “Eric has been an integral part of our Board of Directors for the past two years as the board chair-elect and for two years before that as a director, and was previously a vital presence as the chair of the Board of Advisors for the Farmington Valley YMCA. Eric has been a member of our YMCA family for more than a decade, and we look forward to his lead-
Waypoints By Mark Fiorentino
Doris
Eric Clapprood
ership as we enter a new decade at the YMCA of Greater Hartford.” Clapprood grew up in Massachusetts and attended Brown University where he received a BS in aerospace engineering. Before becoming an actuary, he worked as a private investigator and firefighter. Clapprood moved to Connecticut in 1993, and has lived in Granby since 2001 with his wife, Heidi, and his children, Jordan and Ashlyn. In his professional career, Clapprood has worked as an executive at several financial firms, including Cigna, Citigroup and The Hartford. He has been with Deloitte since 2009, where he leads the Capital Risk and Regulatory Practice for the United States. Clapprood is a fellow of the Society of Actuaries; a member of the American Academy of Actuaries; and a certified Enterprise Risk Analyst. Clapprood’s term as board chair runs through 2022.
I met her in an antique store in New Hampshire. She caught my eye as soon as I walked into the place. My heart fluttered and I knew we would eventually be together. I tried to play it cool, talking with my friend Ken, pretending to ignore her. But every time I tried to steal a glance her way, she was looking back at me with a distinctly “come hither” look. I eventually made my move. I introduced myself and took her in my hand. It felt perfect, just as I expected. After the requisite small talk with the lady she was with, I took her home. Despite my experience, I was nervous as I removed her outer coverings. At one point, as strange as it sounds, I excused myself and texted a couple of buddies seeking advice on how to best get her going without risk of irrevocably insulting her. The responses I got ranged in level of usefulness and tact, so I followed my instincts and proceeded carefully and delicately. In no time at all, she was purring contently and I was grinning ear to ear. Over the next week, we spent time together in my back yard, her doing her thing, me doing mine, two parts of a better whole. I rarely spoke to her, but the magic was undeniable. We both knew it was only a matter of time before we took the next, critical, step. We had to go fishing together. “Doris,” (my pet name for her, chosen because it was befitting of both her era
and the understated grace with which she carried herself) I said, “tomorrow’s the day. We will seal our fate, one way or another.” She gleamed silently. It was a warm, sunny day with a constant wind that, under other circumstances, might have frustrated me. But this was Doris’s first fishing foray in many years (how many she could not say). She was anxious to do well, and I was committed to being patient and to seeing her through it. Over the next few hours, I gradually learned to adjust to her frailties. I concentrated on staying positive and avoiding the tougher challenges. If I could help it, Doris would not have to cast into the wind or be subject to the stress of a snagged line. It turns out that I fretted needlessly. Doris, for the most part, did just fine. Again and again we cast together, looking to land the monster fish we could call our own. In the end, I was tired. And Doris was stiff. So stiff she could barely function. We caught five fish that day, and although there were no monsters, I was satisfied that Doris would play some role in my life. How big of a role depends both on my ability to cure her stiffness and how she performs next month on our annual trip to Lake Champlain. There is no avoiding the monsters at Lake Champlain.
Waypoints cont’d. on p. 24
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bhhsNEProperties.com Granby Drummer June 2020
Page 24 The Granby Drummer
June 2020
Waypoints cont’d. from p. 23 Doris, you see, is a vintage ZEBCO 606 reel, manufactured somewhere between 1965 and 1970. My nervousness in trying to refurbish her was real, as
I was instantly smitten with “Doris.”
was both my excitement to fish with her and my desire to try to catch something really big. Lake Champlain is just the place to try. Stay tuned.
A small squirt of brake cleaner was all it took to get her moving.
Public Works Hazardous waste: A household hazardous waste collection is scheduled for Saturday, June 13, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Simsbury DPW facility, 66 Town Forest Road, Simsbury. Accepted items: Batteries; fluorescent bulbs, compact bulbs, other bulbs containing mercury; lawn care chemicals; household cleaners such as acids, adhesives, aerosol cans, ammonia, drain cleaner, disinfectants, moth balls, etc.; chemicals from the garage or workshop such as antifreeze, ant/bug spray or bait, brake fluid, old gasoline, oil based paint, lighter fluid, polyurethane, pool chemicals, road flares, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, wood stain, etc. Items not accepted: Ammunition or explosives; asbestos; business waste; car batteries; cement; electronics; empty containers; fire extinguishers; Freon; marine flares; ice melt; latex driveway sealer; medicine, drugs, needles, syringes; propane
Doris and I with our first fish. Submitted photos
tanks; appliances; smoke detectors; tires; used oil or oil filters. Yard debris: Residents are asked to keep yard debris out of the road. This will help to keep drainage basins clear and open allowing for proper drainage. Transfer Station: The Granby Transfer Station is open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bear proof barrels: We have a limited number of bear proof barrels available. There is a one-time fee for use of the barrel. If interested, contact Public Works at 860-653-8960. Road work: Town crews are repairing roads this spring. Please drive carefully and take extra caution when passing work crews. DPW updates: For updates on the transfer station and other DPW events, check the website (granby-ct.gov) or the DPW Facebook page (Granby CT Department of Public Works).
R!
E DANG
Even with the windows down a bit, your car ’s temperature can climb to dangerous levels in just a few minutes, causing your pet to suffer heat stroke. Please leave your best friend at home while you do those summer errands.
Don’t put your pet at risk Even with the windows down a bit, your car’s temperature can climb to dangerous levels in just a few minutes, causing your pet to suffer heat stroke. Please leave your best friend at home while you do those summer errands.
Help Us Prepare a Scavenger Hunt How can you help new people love your town and become part of the community? By sharing your favorite places and telling us where you love to be in Granby. Maybe, you love the gazebo during a summer concert. Or, a quiet corner tucked away from the noise. A park? A restaurant? Send us an email with a picture and a description of your spot. With your input, we can put together a map of all the special places and create a town-wide hunt. Once it’s done, we’ll make it available to anyone who would like a copy. You, too, might discover someplace new!
Do you know where this place is? This favorite place photo was contributed by Robin Zatony from our office. (Hint? You’ll need to take a drive!)
You can count on:
Truth in our Words Humility in our Actions Kindness in our Hearts
While this may not exactly be real estate, we can help you with that, too. Give us a call! We are very happy to answer questions or help you put a plan together. Robin, Melanie, Cyndie, Jill and Roland
3 57 N Ma 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
June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 25
Memorial Day is always about more than the parade By Chris Levandowski Memorial Day, as we traditionally celebrate it, was cancelled by COVID-19. This year the pomp and circumstance, parade, community picnic and concerts on the green were absent but our gratitude for those who served and gave their lives has not diminished. It’s also been tradition for the Drummer to share parade photos of dignitaries, the Parade Marshal, mounted Horse Council members, high school bands, our own Marquis of Granby, fire apparatus and scouts galore. This year there won’t be any parade photos … it’s a more personal commemorative. This year we share the Memorial Day memories of an Army Nurse Corps veteran well known in Granby for over 60 years. Sally Hitchcock, as she was known at that time, served in the Philippine theater in WWII and came home a battle-seasoned veteran in her own right in 1946. She married John Pullman and moved to Granby in 1959 and they raised three children in their home on Wells Road. Over the next 60 years she was an active volunteer with the PTA, 4-H, other organizations and as a proofreader for the Drummer. She also taught nursing for many years. Her memories and friendships from those war years never faded. In her 80s, encouraged by friends and family, she brought the box of letters she’d sent home to family and that they had saved, down from the attic. When a broken leg grounded her for weeks she delved in and compiled them along with photos and drawings into a book. Letters Home–Memoirs of one Army Nurse in the Southwest Pacific in World War II, was one of the first written by a WWII Woman Vet and among the first to be included in the collection at the Women in Military Service for America Memorial at Arlington Cemetery, Washington D.C. Sally proudly attended the memorial’s dedication September 16–18, 1997 along with her cohorts from the war years. In May of 2009, Sally wrote this personal memory for the Drummer. Sally now resides in Philadelphia, Penn., near her daughter and recently celebrated her 101st birthday. She is still active and well and is still enjoying the more than 90 Granby greetings she received for her 100th birthday. Letters Home is also in the Library of Congress, the Granby Public Library and is available at Amazon books.
Memorial Day – what I remember by Sally Hitchcock Pullman It is a special time, this day when we remember. The sun shines, the flags fly. Parades march down every town’s main street. Veterans march, as do
school bands, youth groups, business organizations, scouts, 4-H and any others who wish to honor those who served their country. Walkers swing along to the music; roadside observers mark time to the beat.
Sally Pullman (left) served as an Army nurse in World War II in the Pacific theater.
For me, memories go back a long way. When I was a young child in Bristol, my dad took the family to the parade downtown each Memorial Day. The doughboys, veterans of World War I back from France just a few years, marched proudly down Main Street. My friend Sybil’s dad was never at the parade, however; he couldn’t stand any noise or anything else that made him remember. (It was “shellshock,” we were told; today it is called posttraumatic stress disorder.) At the very end of this parade, a large car with its top folded back drove slowly. In the back seat sat three whitehaired gentlemen. My dad told me these men were veterans of the Civil War. Their ages would have been what mine is now. On Sept. 1, 1939, Germany invaded Poland. World War II had begun. Our
lives would never be the same. One by one, my friends and neighbors left to serve, as did my brother, who flew Liberators on Atlantic submarine patrol out of Cornwall, England. I was sent to the southwest Pacific area as an army nurse. We all gladly did our part. My parents, as thousands of others at home, raised victory gardens, canned fruits and vegetables and lived with rationed gasoline and food stamps. Everyone prayed for the safe return of their loved ones from wherever they were in the worldwide conflagration. Some of my cadre of friends did not return. Ben, the boy next door, was lost flying “the Hump” out of the Himalayas. Howie’s destroyer hit a mine in the Atlantic and sank. Hender and Jeremy died in Okinawa. Dan, first severely injured in Leyte, was sent to Okinawa where he was injured again.
Memorial Day cont’d. on p. 26
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Page 26 The Granby Drummer
June 2020
Memorial Day cont’d. from p. 25 He was never the same. Ernie sustained There was the slaughter of resisters at life-changing injuries in the European Kent State College. Still, our men are theater. called to duty. How well I remember May 31, 1945. Four of my nephews went to Vietnam; The war was still raging in the Pacific, two came home injured. Three of my but farther to the north than previously. A neighbors here in Granby were called. friend took me to the Veterans’ Cemetery Don came home, but Johnny and Tommy in Dulag, just south of my hospital in did not — such fine young men. Their the Philippine Islands. Our flag was names are on the black granite memorial flying at half-mast over the entrance in Washington, D.C. where I stood in to acres of rows of white markers. The silence to honor them. How long it area was surrounded by a took for that memorial to be white picket fence. Each created! wooden marker wore My granddaughter is married one-half of the soldier’s to a marine who was deployed dog tags, identifying his to Djibouli at the Horn of last resting place. It was Africa to protect our supplies so peaceful. on their way to Iraq. Wars Behind this quiet continue to rage on the other area were the trunks of side of the world. These are my personal memshattered trees, leafless ories of this special day when palms and pools of water we honor and remember all filling old shell holes — a grim reminder of the Pullman is now 101, and those who have served our living in Philadephia. country, whether in uniform or cost of retaking the first in a civilian capacity. So many of the Philippines. This have given so much to keep our troops is where General Douglas MacArthur supplied and the home front functioning. first landed stating, “I have returned!” When the parade music stops, the All too soon came Korea, that miserable marchers gather in the quiet place where frozen peninsula, and MacArthur’s our friends, neighbors and loved ones firing by President Truman. How far a rest. The speeches end. Taps sound — the hero can fall! slow, clear poignant notes reverberate Vietnam followed. Our country was over our quiet valley. Memories flood. in chaos for so long. Over there, our Another Memorial Day is over. We do men fought and died; at home, turmoil remember. reigned. Men went to Canada to resist the draft. There were protest marches.
When she was asked to be the Grand Marshal of the Hartford Veterans Day parade in 2005, Pullman said she would not do it unless they got her an Army jeep (which she thought would never happen) but they did.
Lifelong friendships were forged during Pullman’s service in World War II. Encouraged by friends and family, Pullman compiled the letters she had written during her service into a book, Letters Home: Memories of one Army Nurse in the Southwest Pacific in World War II. Many thanks to Sally Pullman-Mooar for sharing her mother’s photos.
When her tour was done Pullman (last one on the right) joined fellow nurses with a wave goodbye.
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June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 27
Headline news…in the 1990s and 2000s The
1990s and 2000s were decades of world-wide change and innovation. Computer technology changed how we communicate and do business, the world’s population reached six billion in 1999, smallpox was eradicated, life expectancy increased worldwide, the space shuttle amazed us and made us mourn, environmental concerns increased, four
presidents—George H. Bush, William Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama occupied the White House, and Janet Reno became the first female Attorney General of the United States; just a smattering of the world events of those decades. For Granby residents, those changes dramatically influenced their daily lives. Closer to home new housing de-
velopment and multiple unit housing continued to push the envelope for municipal services and education budgets. To make it more manageable, a new process for yearly budget guidelines was formulated. A growing elementary student population drove the aggressive remodeling of the Kearn’s School. A growing need for room at the high school brought two architectural con-
Our
50
th
Publishing Year!
cepts for new buildings and renovations before the Board of Education. Neither was the ultimate answer but interesting to see. The Routes 189/Rt 20 intersection realignment, a young “hometown” girl who’s now a sports icon, improvements on the Center Green and center sidewalks were all headlined in Drummers published between 1990 and 2009. 2010 through 2020 next month.
June 1990: Kearns School expansion approved.
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY
January 1990: Golf course community approved for North Granby.
HomeServices
50th - Headline news cont’d. on p. 28
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Page 28 The Granby Drummer
June 2020
50th - Headline news cont’d. from p. 27
June 1991: Rebecca Lobo was making headlines as a high schooler.
April 2002: The Drummer moves into its permanent home at 11 North Granby Road. In its early days, the paper was pasted up in the homes of volunteers. In 1974, the Odd Fellows organization and later, the Masons offered the use of the public room at the Masonic Lodge, where over 300 editions of the paper were produced before the move into the current location. June 1990: Plans began for high school renovation.
February 1994: High school renovation plans advance.
June 1994: Fast food regulations are discussed.
June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 29
50th - Headline news cont’d. from p. 28
July/August 2006: Painted Horses came to town.
Holcomb Farm trails are open—and free
5x3
June 2004: Drummer Fund contributes to the community.
Let’s Plant the Seeds Together
The weather is perfect for being outdoors, and the trails at Holcomb Farm welcome everyone, every day. Whether you take Dad for a hike on Father’s Day or walk with your new graduate to a scenic spot and take photos to remember always, you can find just the right trail at the Farm. Trail map, above, and at holcombfarm.org
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June 2020
50th - Headline news cont’d. from p. 29
June 2007: Fund raising to start a high school football program.
June 2009: Adjutant Jim Hall of the American Legion is featured.
June 2009: That year, Memorial Day was observed on May 25 with a parade. This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has canceled the parade on May 25, although Granby will still honor and memorialize the sacrifice of America’s soldiers.
Next month: We finish up our look back at our 50 years with a recap of the 2010s.
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June 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 31
Birds enjoy Granby’s waters Photos by Merle Yoder
Wood duck, downstream from Christensen Pond.
Common mergansers at Salmon Brook Park.
Bald eagle at Christensen Pond.
Great blue heron at Christensen Pond — not willing to share his fishing spot.
Page 32 The Granby Drummer
June 2020
Closer to Home
Support our local businesses while saving some gas and time. Tell them you saw their ad in the Drummer. Advertisers Page
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Beacon Mechanics 22 Beman Hardware 18 Berkshire Hathaway-Reardon 7 Berkshire Hathaway-Shepherd’s Way 15 Berkshire Hathaway-Sogliuzzo 23 Berkshire Hathaway-Guarco 27 BNG Law 15 Brignole Bush & Lewis 2 Cahill’s Motors 11 Carmon Funeral Home 11 Carter Robert Painting 29 Cetera Investors 29 Chiropractic Care 6 Christopher Bryant 22 D’Agata Granite & Bronze 6 Dowd Realty Scavenger Hunt 24 Eaton Eye Care 32 Edward Jones 16 First Congregational Church 20 Gary’s Mowing 5 GCF - Red Cross 19 Granby Dental Center – Dr. Ungerleider 13 Granby Dental – Dr. Kirschbaum 8, 18 Granby Package Store 14 Granby Public Works 9 Higleyville Coin 14 Larry’s Construction 5
Main Street Door 20 Melvin Porter Electrical & Plumbing 2 Morawski Cleaning 27 Northwest Community Bank 26 O’Brien Nurserymen 17 Pierce Builders-Meadowgate 12 Route 10 Tire 5 SanditzTravel 12 Santa Realty 30 Sig’s Plumbing & Pump 2 Small Town Septic 9 South Church 13 State Line Propane Oil 21 Subseven 29 Sullivan Hardwood Floors 6 Swim Center at Westminster 17 Taylor Energy 10 Thomas Sullivan Morgan Stanley 30 TJ Bark Mulch 19 Troiano Oil Company 29 Two Park Place 3 Valley Brook Comm. Church 31 Vining Hill Equestrian 12 Walsh Chiropractic 26 West Granby Methodist Church 11 Westfield Bank 25 Windsor Federal Savings 8
Ready for take off! Photographer Merle Yoder captured this shot of an osprey at Christensen Pond.
July/August 2020 deadlines ADS: Wednesday, June 10 noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, leave message. Email: ads@granbydrummer.org ARTICLES: Monday, June 15 noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222. Email: editor@granbydrummer.org WORK DATES: June 9-22 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