Granby Drummer | March 2023

Granby Police Dept. achieves gold standard in public safety services

About town

with EricA robErtson Town Manager

One of the benefits of writing an article for our local paper every month is that I get to share some insight with residents about what is going on behind the scenes at Town Hall and the work being done in our departments to keep things running smoothly. This month I wanted to highlight the good work being done at the Granby Police Department (GPD). Chances are if you have lived in Granby for any length of time you or someone you know has needed the police. Whether it was for a routine wellness check on your neighbor, a bear at your birdfeeder, a minor car accident or a major emergency, the Granby Police Department is always ready, capable and willing to respond to the needs and requests for help from our community. Our highly trained officers provide exceptional service and protection to the Town. Members of the force participate in a regional training program one week per year and also receive specialized training in areas such as investigations, firearms and defensive tactics.

We are proud of our officers and their dedication to the residents of Granby. But we are not the only ones that think the department is pretty great! The GPD has been recognized nationally and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), which is considered the International Gold Standard for Public Safety Agencies. Granby was accredited in May 2019 and was recognized for excellence in law enforcement agency management and service delivery.

Initial CALEA accreditation is a longterm, rigorous process which involves a top to bottom review of all policies and procedures, public feedback and engagement and an on-site visit and inspection by CALEA assessors. The final decision to accredit is made by the commission. Once accredited, the department is evaluated each year for continued compliance and the process is renewed every four years.

GPD is in its fourth year and is currently working on reaccreditation. While re-upping is not the exact process as the initial accreditation, it is just as rigorous and requires a significant amount of work to ensure the department is following hundreds of nationally recognized, professional law-enforcement standards and to prepare for the visit by the CALEA assessors.

About Town cont’d. on p. 2

Long-time election moderators honored

Patty Sansone (l.) and Diane NeumannHernsdorf were feted at a poll workers’ tea Submitted photo

Jazzing it up with Wells Road band students

By Laura Wolfe

A Poll Worker Thank You Afternoon Tea party was held on Feb. 8 to honor long-time election Moderators Diane Hernsdorf and Patty Sansone. Poll workers from the 2022 election and Town Hall employees gathered to thank them for their years of service. As a special thank you gift, Tom McGuire created beautiful wooden pens made from the Granby Oak tree.

The Registrars thanked everyone attending for their commitment to volunteerism, ensuring everyone has a right to vote. In the words of Paul Willis:

“Those long hours at the poles are preceded by endless planning and teaching volunteers in the best practices of holding an election. It must be noted that Diane and Patty arrived early, at 4:30 a.m. and stayed well after the polls

BOS and P&Z study affordable housing plan

By Shirley Murtha

On January 24, the Granby Board of Selectmen and the Planning and Zoning Commission met to discuss the Affordable Housing Plan objectives. Connecticut state statutes require that each town in the state prepare and adopt an affordable housing plan that specifies how that town intends to increase the number of affordable developments.

The plan is to be updated at least once every five years.

The key word is “plan.” Some residents argue that there is no mandate to increase affordable housing and no penalties if none occurs, as noted by a resident who spoke in the public session of the meeting. Therefore, some residents feel it is not necessary to meet the state requirement to develop a plan. The

Joint meeting cont’d. on p. 2

Finance Constrains Spending, Mill Rate Change

By Michael B. Guarco, Jr. Chair, Board of Finance

At its Feb. 15 meeting, the Board of Finance reviewed updated information relative to the budget for FY24 that begins on July 1. The total Grand List— subject to any final adjustments by the

Board of Assessment Appeals—was filed as required with the state by Jan. 31, and showed an increase with revaluation of 28.34 percent over the Oct. 1, 2021, Grand List.

Of this total, 1.31 percent is from actual net additions to the list, while the other 27.01 percent relates to the revalFinance cont’d. on p. 3

Superintendent Search Committee formed

By Sarah Thrall , Chair Board of Education

At its Feb. 1, 2023, meeting, the Granby Board of Education (BOE) appointed itself as the Personnel Search Committee for the new Superintendent of the Granby Public Schools. The committee’s work will be guided by a search consultant and will begin immediately.

The process of selecting a new Su-

perintendent of Schools will include an opportunity for staff and community members to provide input into the professional and personal attributes desired in the new superintendent. The BOE will be communicating any updates through various methods including email, the district website, and the Granby Drummer

Thank you for your continued support of the Granby Public Schools.

Photo by Peter

Band director Sarah Warner snaps a selfie with her 5th grade jazz band students from Wells Road Intermediate School. The band performed with the 5th grade concert band, chorus and 4th and 5th grade orchestra at the winter concert held Jan. 26 at the high school. The spring concert is slated for May 11.

BOS, P&Z joint meeting on affordable housing plan

board’s opinion, feeling of the board, as stated by First Selectman Mark Fiorentino, is that “exploring ways to increase affordable housing is something that should be done because it is the right thing to do —mandate or not.”

The objectives of the affordable housing plan Granby adopted in June 2022, have been assigned to the Town Planner Staff, the Board of Selectmen or P&Z. The town planner staff is assigned to study reducing restrictions for accessory apartments, including considering financial incentives such as a tax reduction. The target delivery date for this study is December 2023. The town staff is also asked to set up meetings with the Salmon Brook Water District, Aquarion Water and Connecticut Natural Gas to report on potential projects in town,. P&Z is asked to consider a change to zoning regulations to require that a certain percentage of units constructed in a multi-family development be deedrestricted affordable, report due in June 2023. The Commission is also asked to consider allowing reduction of the minimum lot size now required in order to reduce the overall cost of home own-

ership, thus encouraging single-family affordable housing, targeted for 2025. Related to that, the Commission is asked to consider a density bonus within the Flexible Residential Developments for the construction of affordable housing, targeted for February of 2024. (The Board of Selectmen is asked to explore the establishment of a housing trust fund, targeted for September 2023.)

Several other assignments for the P&Z are on hold until 2024 pending the results of the sewer flow study and the Center Study and the meetings with the utilities. These assignments include allowing multi-family housing to be “allowed by right” instead of special permit; expanding the zones where density bonuses are allowed for elderly and affordable housing; increasing density allowance depending on the suitability of the site and access to public infrastructure; and reducing the minimum lot size for multi-family development where the minimum lot size for multifamily exceeds the minimum lot size in the underlying zone.

One further assignment for P&Z is to promote sidewalk connections and additional bike paths. This ongoing

project is dependent on the grant application deadlines, so no target date has been named.

The Board of Selectmen is assigned to report on existing CT Transit routes and ridership and propose changes as may be needed to better serve Granby residents, targeted for April 2023. By June of 2023, the BOS is expected to prepare a spreadsheet showing all town-owned land including acreage and zoning. By September 2023, the BOS should have completed a sewer flow study to determine whether additional capacity is achievable and sustainable. Based on the results of that study, the BOS will determine whether the sewer service area map should be modified to allow for expansion north and south of Floydville Road to the East Granby town line and eliminate the areas north of Crest Road along North Granby Road. That assessment is targeted for January 2024.

Finally, the BOS is asked to explore partnerships with affordable housing developers and nonprofit entities to facilitate residential development on town-owned land where appropriate. This is dependent on the completion of the town-owned land study and is tar-

geted for 2024.

Fiorentino thanked the board and commission for their time and dedication to this process, as it is above and beyond the members’ normal duties. “These are issues for future generations,” Fiorentino noted. “It would be easier for us to just go from one year to the next and not worry about the future.” The process involves listening to residents. “We may not always agree, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t listening,” he continued, adding that the original proposal has been changed in significant areas in response to residents’ concerns.

About Town cont’d. from p. 1

Reaccreditation ensures policies and procedures are in place to guide our officers and protect our citizens. If you would like to submit a comment about the police department or the accreditation process, visit the police department page on the Town of Granby website. We are confident the hard work will pay off and the Granby Police Department will once again be recognized as an elite law enforcement agency in 2023. Accreditation is a coveted award that symbolizes professionalism, excellence and competence. We are very proud of the efforts of the department to maintain this status while keeping Granby safe and protected. The next time you see one of our officers, thank them for all they do!

Election moderators

cont’d. from p. 1 closed to make certain that every Election was fair, equitable and the numbers were accurate. We all owe them a debt of gratitude.”

The Registrars also acknowledged the invaluable contribution of Town Manager Erica Robertson, Town Clerk Scott Nolan, Public Works Director Kirk Severance for their support. A new generation of Moderators and Assistants, including Stephanie McGuire, Sandy Lee, Vinny Tokarz, Karen Antonucci, was also thanked for their enthusiasm in assuring that every vote counts.

Charter Revision Commission discusses elections, board terms of office

Members Present: Chairman Edward Ohannessian; Vice-Chairman Anthony McGovern; Commissioners Lynn Guelzow, Rebecca Brewer, Mark Lockwood, Benjamin Perron, Terri-Ann Hahn, Anthony Cappelli (via Zoom) and Francis Brady. Others present: Town Manager Erica P. Robertson (via Zoom) and Town Clerk Scott A. Nolan. Chairman Edward Ohannessian informed members that they had received a packet of feedback from members of the public, along with the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM), and the Town Attorney (Halloran and Sage LLP).

uation process. Given the previous list with its new valuations, a mill rate of about 31.5 would raise the same amount of property taxes as budgeted for the current fiscal year. It is estimated that the updated revalued Grand List, with growth, and the budget parameters being set in place, will keep any tax rate change at less than 2 percent. This brings any proposed new mill rate for FY24 to roughly 32.1 mills.

The executive-branch budget proposal from the Governor, with one conditional exception, proposes fairly flat state revenues to Granby for the next two years. That one exception is $1.1M in offsetting vehicle tax relief as earmarked for Granby in both upcoming fiscal years.

As our anticipated mill rate will be below the current vehicle tax cap of 32.46 mills, one can reasonably anticipate that the state Office of Policy and Management will nix those amounts for any municipality whose new mill rate falls below that current threshold.

As noted in the February Drummer, the initial Plus One operating budget proposal looked to drive a mill rate change of about 2.73 percent. At this point, limiting the operating budget increases to at least 1 percent lower than initially submitted to the Boards, will keep the mill rate change under 2 percent—the target range we seek.

Any subsequent improvements on both the expenditure and revenue sides will be considered in terms of the longer-range picture. Finance is looking to take reasonable steps to maintain year-

Ohannessian inquired how the commissioners wanted to move forward with making suggestions/ edits to the document. Commissioner Mark Lockwood offered his services to be the one to keep track of the redline and blackline edits so they could be presented to the Board of Selectmen in an easy-toread manner.

Committee members began a discussion on the language in Chapter 1, Incorporation and General Powers, especially some specific language, grammar, and political subdivisions.

The committee also discussed the language in Chapter 2, Elections.

to-year stability in the tax rate and avoid significant fluctuation in the actual mill rate and tax bills.

Households, businesses, and government at all levels are adjusting to how the current inflationary environment is impacting the checkbook. While it may be easing, its pervasiveness will continue beyond the next fiscal year. As Finance works with the two operating Boards to manage next year’s overall budget, at the same time Finance will have an eye on subsequent years in the near term. Over the long haul, we look to effectively and efficiently meet the needs of our community, while being sensitive to the taxpayers who foot most of the bill.

While Granby is well-positioned to maintain stability in property taxes while meeting the needs of our townspeople, there can be an array of difficulties to overcome going forward. While the state is flush with cash, that can change quickly, and to our detriment.

While statewide, public-sector contracts had been for years reasonably manageable in the 2–3 percent range, that environment has been changing given the impact of inflation. Another 1 percent in wages is roughly equivalent to 1 percent in taxes. It is because of considerations like this that the Board of Finance looks to keep our town well positioned and prepared for what the future may bring us—not just next year but in the near-term years beyond as well.

Specifically, the number of Board of Education candidates any one political party can have, along with the nomination process for political parties, minority representation, registered voters, electors, breaking a tie, and vacancies. Members spoke at length about the process of filling a vacancy on the Board of Selectmen and what would happen when an Unaffiliated seat of a Board/ Commission became vacant.

They also considered whether or not the Town Charter should mandate that Public Input be a part of each boards and commission’s agenda at which time further discussion took place.

Committee members discussed language in Chapter 3, Elective Officers. Discussion took place about suggesting that section 3-1 language be adopted to allow boards and commissions the option to adopt their own by-laws. After a brief discussion members felt that they would like to consider it further at a later date. Further discussion took place regarding term limits.

Members discussed section 3-4, Board of Selectmen, regarding whether terms should be staggered. Members also spoke to the election of the First Selectman and if the present system following Connecticut General Statute § 9-188 was a good idea. It was also suggested that if members of the Charter Commission were in agreement on this issue that the statute where the language originated should be referenced for clarity.

Further discussion centered on whether the method of electing a First Selectman should be in line with the current language in Connecticut General Statute § 9-188 or if the Town wanted to adopt a home rule where if you lost as a candidate for First Selectman your votes would not be counted towards a seat on the Board of Selectmen.

Members discussed section 3-5, Board of Education, regarding the number of board members that currently comprise the Board of Education and if that number should be increased. Town Manager Robertson noted that the Board of Finance is working on offering feedback to the Charter Revision Commission regarding areas relevant to them. Charter Revision Commission members also discussed merging sections 3-8 Zoning Board of Appeals and 3-9 Zoning Board of Appeals Alternates.

Discussion took place regarding the Town Moderator position (Section 3-11) and what role it currently serves in town government. It was noted that the moderator is still in charge of running the Town meetings.

Members discussed section 3-12, Position of Profit, the concept of conflict of interest and whether or not we should include a conflict-of-interest section, or if this section should be replaced with a conflict-of-interest section. Members felt that the section of position of profit might be too broad.

Town Budget Meetings

Includes regular meetings of the Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance

Wednesday, March 1 at 7 p.m.– Board of Education Meeting and Administrative Budget Presentation, Town Hall Meeting Room/Zoom

Monday, March 6 at 7 p.m.—BOS Regular Meeting in Town Hall. Receipt of budget requests from Town Manager.

Wednesday, March 8 at 7 p.m – Board of Education Budget Workshop, Central Services

Thursday, March 9 at 6 p.m.—BOS Budget Workshop I in Town Hall.

Monday, March 13 at 6 p.m.—BOS Budget Workshop II in Town Hall.

Wednesday, March 15 – 7 p.m., BOE Vote on the FY24 Budget, Board of Education Meeting, Town Hall Meeting Room/Zoom

Thursday, March 16 at 6 p.m.—BOS Budget Workshop III in Town Hall.

Monday, March 20 at 7 p.m.—BOS Regular Meeting in Town Hall. Finalize and adopt municipal budget.

Monday, March 27 at 7 p.m.—BOS and BOE Budget Presentations to BOF in Senior Center Community Room.

Monday, April 3 at 7 p.m.—Regular BOS Meeting in Town Hall.

Thursday, April 6—Proposed Budget Available for General Distribution

Monday, April 10 at 7 p.m.—BOF Public Hearing in High School Auditorium. Special Meeting of the BOF follows the Public Hearing.

Monday, April 17 at 7 p.m.— Regular BOS Meeting in Town Hall.

Monday, April 24—Annual Budget Machine Vote, 12 to 8 p.m. in Town Hall. Meeting of the BOF follows the referendum.

What’s Up in Town Hall

Recent Actions

1. The Board of Finance approved preliminary guidelines for the municipal and education 23-24 budgets. The guidelines-limit spending increases to 3.99 percent for the municipal budget and 4.99 percent for the education budget.

2. The Board of Selectmen and the Planning and Zoning Commission held a second joint meeting to discuss topics that included affordable housing and conducting a town center study.

Upcoming Topics

1. Ge t informed and provide input on the FY 23-24 municipal budget. The Board of Selectmen will hold workshops on March 9, 13 and 16. All workshops will be in the Town Hall meeting room at 5 p.m., and available by Zoom.

Finance cont’d. from p. 3

Drumbeat editorials, commentary & letters to the editor

Unsigned editorials are the consensus opinion of the editorial staff and publisher. Commentary pieces express the opinion of the writer and not necessarily the opinion of the Drummer

By C. J. Gibson

Riding around our town is quite an experience. During a days’ journey, one observes all sorts of things. Lots of people, events,and goings on, and the humanity and complexity of our simple hamlet continues to amaze and endear it to me. For instance, there are new homes being built in several locations. Some are rentals, some are planned developments, and a few are new single dwellings. What amazes me is how many there are, considering the population of our town. Then, as I journey through the day, I also see many of the smaller, older homes, where folks have settled in, yards are well treed, and lawns are long established. These look comfortable, well lived in, even charming to me. Such a contrast to some of the newer neighborhoods, perhaps a bit warmer and welcoming. Maybe, I think, in a few years, folks who come to occupy the newer places will have time to “settle in” and their new homes will add to the charm that is our town. This will take time, and so I am not worried, but rather intrigued. I hear the concerns voiced by some, but I feel that time will make things right, and our town will persevere by expanding on the culture and charm set in motion by past generations.

As I journey north and west, the farms and hills take my thoughts away to an older time. The Cossitt Library; the property that once was Allen’s Cider Mill; the many fields that still are a beautiful part of the town. Some house horses, some house cattle. Folks who ride along on my daily travels often share stories of “way

Journeying in town

back when” and give incredible details of what our town was like during those times. I love listening and imagining when the town was very rural, peaceful, and inviting to those who came here.

I tell myself that with so much history and culture at its foundation, our town will sustain, and be charming in a new way in the years ahead. I feel very positive about this, and it makes my daily travels go smoothly.

The people of our town are varied and unique. There are farmers, ranchers, builders, businesspeople, scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and others. For infrastructure, we have a working town government, a solid school system, the usual amount of town politics, boards for all kinds of things, and dedicated community servants and elected officials. From the cultural side, we are blessed with community activists and citizens who do care. There are so many ways to nourish the soul, like libraries and land trust hiking trails. There are clubs and organizations that form a solid basis for our folks to gather and invest in their lives in the town. I suppose there are many towns like ours, but this one feels like a warm coat on a chilly day. When all around the world we learn about horrible and tragic events, it feels wrong to ride around town and not see it for the blessings that it provides.

This is not to say that we are without our challenges and our problems. Each day during my journey, I observe situations that need support, folks that are fighting hard to make it to tomorrow, and spirits that may need buoying. I am amazed and encouraged at the strength and tenacity

that so many have, how resilient they are, and how strong their spirits remain. I believe and understand that this basic quality is what has strengthened our town over the years. Indeed, one must believe that it will continue to do so, as we grow and move into the next years.

When you journey around town, take time to observe the goings on. Look carefully at the crews that work on our intersection in the center. Notice the folks that are using the new sidewalks, and imagine what their days are like. Think about the new residents that may occupy our town in the coming years. Think about the business owners who have made it convenient for us to shop, dine out, get our cars serviced, or even build a new home here. Value the folks who continue to work the land, make places for us to walk, read, and live safely. And of course, think of those who take care of others in our town. They are heroes. They don’t ask for anything in return for their giving. Many are volunteers, providing food, emergency/ social services, devoting countless hours to helping our kids, seniors, and really, all of us.

I hope that you will take time to make some mini journeys around our town. I have to say, it’s really a great trip! Bon Voyage…

Town of Granby Meeting Calendar

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

Board of Selectmen, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Mondays, March 6 and March 20

Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Police Dept. Community Room, Monday, March 27

Board of Education, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesdays, March 1 and 15

Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Tuesdays, March 14 and 28

Inland Wetlands and Water, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesday, March 8

Development Commission, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Monday, March 13

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 ©2023

Citizens for a Better Granby, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, all rights reserved.

CBG Board

Kathy Norris, Chair

David Tolli, Vice Chair

Roger Hayes, Treasurer

Flo Bishoff, Secretary

Carol Bressor, Karen Cleary, Rebecca Mikus, Sam Mikus, Lew Noble

Staff

Jennifer Bell, Managing Editor

Leisa Ritchie, Production Supervisor

Chris Levandowski, Copy Editor

Amanda Lindberg, Copy Editor

Dave Tolli, Photo Editor

Andrea Leshinskie, Photo Editor

Kathy Agresta, Carol Bressor, Carolyn Carter, Karen Cleary, Nancy Dudenhofer, Karen Handville, Rick Handville, Rita Isaacson, Patricia Kovaleski, Eileen Longhi, Brooke Orr Donna Schedinger, Faith Tyldsley

Reporters & Contributors

Jennifer Benson, AnnMarie Cox, Rob Flanigan, Mark Fiorentino, Bernadette Gentry, Mike Guarco, Jay Harder, Amy McCue, Kim Periera, Shirley Murtha, Pam Sherrer, Faith Tyldsley, Todd Vibert, Kristine Vincent, John Violette, Laura Wolfe, Sandy Yost

Advertising Team

Deneika Janski, Advertising Coordinator Deborah Kulwich, Beth Rathey

Website Manager

Jake Kean

Subscriptions & Delivery

Sam & Rebecca Mikus

LETTERS POLICY

The Drummer welcomes letters. Letters do not necessarily reflect the views of the CBG Board and the Drummer. The length of letters will be held to 500 words and less. To be published, letters must be signed and include an address and phone number. This information will not be given to anyone other than the necessary editorial staff. Letters from readers who do not reside in Granby will have the town of residence noted with the letter. The Drummer reserves the right to edit and shorten letters, and to run them in any electronic form. Letters become the property of the Drummer. Email your letters to:

editor@granbydrummer.org

ADVERTISERS AGREEMENT

soap

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

The former Allen Cider Mill rests at the bottom of Mountain Road.

Photo by C.J. Gibson

Residents voice concerns about affordable housing and sewer use

At the public session of the Jan. 24 joint meeting of the Board of Selectmen and the Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z), several residents stepped forward to address their concerns.

Reinhard Maier addressed members of the Board of Selectmen about the Sewer Studies and expressed concern about the water table, leaky sewer pipes, subpumps, and the sewage treatment plant in Simsbury and further expressed concern that when it gets overflooded with water that the Simsbury plant dumps sewage into the Farmington River as they have a permit to do so. Maier also expressed concern over the breakdown and percentage of how much each municipality owns of the Simsbury sewage plant.

Robert Flanigan, Jr. addressed members of the Board of Selectmen and the P&Z with his concerns about issues regarding the Salmon Brook Park pump station. Flanigan also inquired about the Affordable Housing Plan document and who would fund the trust and if the Town of Granby would be going into partnership with the developers. He felt it was not the Town’s responsibility to be entering into a partnership with private developers. Flanigan also informed members that after his speaking with State Rep. Mark Anderson, that the Town was not required to follow the State of Connecticut bill requirement to adopt an affordable housing plan, especially as there were not penalties to do so. He noted that he felt the Town did not have the infrastructure to move forward with this plan and that the Town would not meet the 10 percent mandate of affordable housing. Flanigan further thanked members of the various boards for their service.

Answering the questions from the public, First Selectman Mark Fiorentino explained that the Town was not committed to doing anything yet regarding a trust but looking into what other towns are doing.

He further explained that the work currently being done at the Salmon Brook Park pump station was routine maintenance. He also noted that he felt that Affordable Housing is something that the Town should be doing and there were good discussions and that he and others are committed to doing them.

Maureen Eberly addressed members regarding the potential impact of a Town Center Study and she felt it was important to take into consideration this will have on taxpayers. Eberly further expressed concern that she felt many people are pushing for a modernlooking municipality. Eberly explained that she did not want to see the Town of Granby looking like Blue Back Square or having high-rise buildings.

John Morrone told members that the agenda was confusing and he didn’t see many opposing views and that he was not a ghetto guy. He mentioned an article he read in the Granby Drummer about transit stops and asked whether

CORRECTIONS

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

KEEP US IN THE LOOP

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

or not members had recently gone into Hartford or Waterbury on the FastTrack and expressed concern that the people riding the bus were homeless. Morrone further expressed concern with the Affordable Housing Draft item #5 as he thought that the word “partnership” was a legal definition. He expressed concern that there were too many rental units being approved and was concerned about where all these people were going to be coming from. Morrone further expressed concern about where all these store owners were going to be coming from, and which property owners would be giving them a break on their rent in order to have a successful business.

Answering these questions, Fiorentino explained that the first step in the process is to inventory what property the Town owns and review the single-family lots that are developable. Fiorentino further explained that the apartment units currently under construction are preleased and there is clearly a market for this type of housing.

Glenn Ballard thanked members of the boards for their work and believes that there is a more efficient way of working. Ballard inquired about the Town Center Study expressing concern that the Affordable Housing Plan has no goals and recommended that the boards

create goals and objectives, so it is clear as to why they are doing this and how we will know if we have succeeded. He wanted to know if the goal was to increase the population or increase the tax value per acre and why the Town was doing this. Ballard noted that this is the third meeting which a Town Center study has been discussed and yet no one has defined what a town center study is. He hopes that the boards would give consideration to meeting again soon to develop goals.

Answering questions from the public, P&Z Alternate Member Paula H. Johnson, noted that it was important for members to review the conservation plan. Fiorentino further clarified that affordable housing does not mean density and that the current housing projects recently/currently being constructed may not be considered “affordable.”

Selectman Mark Neumann commented that the Affordable Housing plan was a state requirement but that while he served on the committee they felt it was important to increase our affordable housing and that the diversity of

housing makes for a better Granby.

P&Z member Matthew Peters expressed his opinion that when we hire teachers to be a part of our community that they may not be able to afford to live here. Director of Community Development Abigail St. Peter Kenyon noted that she felt it was good and necessary to be having these discussions.

Selectman Margaret Chapple noted that it is a problem when our children and retirees want to move back to town but can’t afford to live in Granby.

Selectman Kelly O. Rome said that it is important to consider a Town Center Study as we do have vacant spaces that need to be filled.

Town Manager Robertson noted that affordable housing does not mean lowincome, and that change can happen with thoughtfulness and planning and that the character of the town doesn’t necessarily need to change. She indicated that the focus should be on filling vacant storefronts, walkability, and working on landscape.

Build Your Business Through Community

Cutting at creative development

Pictured (left to right): Mary Anne Guarco, Sandy Hart & Morgan Hilyard

were able to raise $850 for our Scholarship Fund, which will benefit students in both Granby & Simsbury. Thank

In partnership with the Granby Drummer

Morgan Hilyard with Lauren Coughlin, Clinical Director and Deanne Anderson, Owner, cut the ribbon opening Creative Development

Focus on Education

Jordan E. Grossman, Ed.D

February highlights

I want to thank the entire Granby community for supporting us this year as we celebrate our 100th day of school; over half the school year is complete. Students in the Granby Public Schools continue to excel and the staff continues to work tirelessly to assist our students achieve their highest academic potential and social/emotional development. Below are specific highlights that happened during the month of January and February:

• Congratulations to high school students Cooper Boyd, Ezra Holt, Christian Cusano, and Trevor Thompson for being selected for the NAFME

All-Eastern Mixed Choir for April 2023.

• Also, congratulations to Ada Linden, sixth grade student, who was selected as a Student Reader for the Nutmeg State Intermediate Book Award Committee.

• All schools participated in activities honoring Black History Month.

• Kindergarten registration began on Feb. 1.

• 8th Grade Parents’ Night was held on Feb. 2.

• Additionally, all of our choral and band concerts, as well as drama club plays, were terrific and well attended.

• State Legislators met with the Board of Education to talk about the current state of the district and upcoming legislative session.

• A Superintendent’s Community Conversation was held on Feb. 15 to

discuss the budget and issues relating to education.

• A very successful PJ Day Fundraiser was held by all of the schools in the district and raised over $5,500 for the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.

I urge you to view our district website at granbyschools.org It is a wonderful way to discover what is happening in our schools. Below is a list of Board of Education/Budget Meetings that be of interest to the community at large: March 1 – Board of Education Meeting and Administrative Budget Presentation, 7 p.m., Town Hall Meeting Room/Zoom

March 8 – Board of Education Budget Workshop, 7 p.m., Central Services March 15 – BOE Vote on the FY24 Budget, Board of Education Meeting, 7 p.m., Town Hall Meeting Room/ Zoom

The next Superintendent’s Community Conversation will be held on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at 6 p.m. via Zoom. The focus will be on the Board of Education’s proposed budget. This will also be a time for community members to ask any questions they may have regarding our schools.

I want to thank the entire Granby community for your continued support in making Granby Public Schools one of the best school districts in the state. Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns at 860-844-5260 and follow me on Twitter@GranbySuper

Granby Racial Reconciliation’s Black History Month Profiles Well Received

By Cathy Watso

“Incredible stories-well done!”

“These are wonderful and inspiring articles.” These are examples of some of the feedback about Granby Racial Reconciliation’s (GRR) daily profiles of Black Americans posted to the organization’s website (granbyrr.com) this February.

The series shared the stories of lesser-known Black Americans whose brilliance and gifts changed the world. In one example, the profiles of Annie Turnbo-Malone and Madam CJ Walker inspired many readers. A retired teacher lamented that he, “could not find information like this and I sure could have used it for instruction in the classroom”. Another reader shared her appreciation in learning about these women by saying, “They are an inspiration! The things we never learned in school, yet so important.” A common response to the profiles, especially the ones from the Civil Rights Movement, was that readers became aware of the gaps in their own educations.

Brita Gotberg shared, “I’m so appreciative of the GRR and the work put into bringing us the opportunity to learn every day in February and beyond.” Another community member expressed the importance of reading about Black success found in American History and in current times.

The series began with a quotation by the father of Black History Month, Carter G. Woodson, “If a race has no history, it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated.” It concluded with justice system reformer, Bryan Stevenson’s powerful commencement addresses including, “the truth is we can’t change the world by doing just what’s convenient and comfortable. I’ve looked for examples where things changed, where oppression was ended, where inequality was overcome, when people did only what was convenient and comfortable, and I can’t find any examples of that. To change the world, you’re going to sometimes have to make uncomfortable choices, to be in uncomfortable places, and be proximate and be hopeful and change narratives.”

In acknowledgement that there continues to be underrepresentation in U.S. history books and news stories of Black contribution, Black brilliance, Black joy, and Black success, these profiles will remain on the GRR website for 12 months of the year. The GRR Steering Committee invites all to read them at granbyracialreconciliation.com/blackhistory.

GRR also invites the community to attend the second annual free Arts and Education festival, “Granby Celebrates Juneteenth” Saturday, June 17 at Salmon Brook Park.

Chasing the puck

Senior Will Peverly pursues a puck for the Granby/Suffield/Windsor

Locks Co-Op Hockey team in a game against Deep River on Jan. 28. Photo by Jay Harder

GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS

The Granby program would have approximately 10-12 students. Enrollment is projected out five years.

Proposal of Post-Secondary Transition Program

At the Jan. 4 meeting of the Board of Education, Angela Ehrenwerth, director of pupil personnel Services, presented a post-secondary transition program for 18 to 22-year-old students for the 2023-2024 school year to be held at the Farmington Valley YMCA. The program is only for students in that age group who are entitled to receive services. The goal is for the Board to vote on this program at its Jan. 18 meeting. Dr. Grossman explained that this program was part of the strategic plan and an initiative for the Special Education Department. Ehrenwerth provided an overview of post-secondary transition programming that would meet the individual needs of a specific student population with significant special education needs after high school until the age of 22. The district is legally required to provide this programming to eligible students. Currently, referrals are made to neighboring programs, such

as the Farmington Valley Transition Academy and The Rise Academy in Windsor Locks. This programming will provide greater continuity from high school to post-secondary transition programming.

Staffing, which would consist of an administrator, director of pupil personnel services, coordinator (special education teacher), and 2–3 job coaches. The program provides students with a local comprehensive transition program, and develops partnerships with community business and adult-service agencies, broken down as follows: Independent Living (20 percent); Community Participation (40 percent); and Employment/ College (40 percent). Students will potentially attend this program for 3-4 years and benefit from potential community and employment partnerships with CT Adult Service Agencies; the YMCA; Top Drawer Consignment Shop; Lox, Stock and Bagels; Geissler’s Supermarket and Asnuntuck Community College.

Steps determined for Center Study project

By Shirley Murtha

At the Sept. 19, 2022, joint meeting of the Board of Selectmen and the Planning and Zoning Commission, it was decided to develop a plan to study long-term growth of the town center, an important consideration in Granby’s strategic plan going forward. This became known as the Center Study, and P&Z was asked to create a process for the scope of a study. At its meeting on Jan. 10, the commission agreed to present the following plan to the BOS.

• Town Staff will prepare a draft scope.

• The draft scope circulated to the Development and P&Z Commissions.

• P&Z will hold a public session to gather input.

• P&Z will finalize the draft scope uti-

lizing input from the Development Commission and the public session.

• The final draft scope will be referred to the BOS.

The BOS accepted the scoping process plan from the P&Z at the joint meeting held on Jan. 24. It was agreed that Town Manager Erica Robertson and Community Development Director Abby Kenyon will prepare the scope and submit it to the Development Commission. Robertson and Kenyon intend to meet with the consultant working with the same process in East Granby.

It was suggested that a subcommittee might be formed, consisting of five members: one each from the BOS, Development Commission and P&Z, and two from the public.

Monica Logan inquired if this program would be open to students from other towns, and Rosemarie Weber asked if the Board had determined the difference in cost between the proposed program and the previous one. Grossman does not anticipate this program will cost any more than it currently does to send students out-of-district.

Approval of Post-Secondary Transition Program

At the Jan. 18 meeting the BOE continued to discuss and consider approval of the PostSecondary Transition Program for 18- to-22year-old students beginning in the 2023-2024 school year. Grossman reminded everyone that a proposal was presented at the last meeting for a transition program that would align with our goals to bring Granby students back into district. Inclusion in such a program would be dependent on a students IEP and would be offered as a choice. Grossman stated the YMCA is excited to have Granby Public Schools as a partner. The sole purpose for this program is for students to stay within a familiar community and if it happens to save money, that is a great thing as well.

He shared the current FY23 cost of $263K with next year projected to be $391K if students remain out-of-district; if a program is brought in-district, the cost would be approximately $264K, a savings of $130K. This projection is based on five students; however, it can be up to eight students and upwards from there if students from other towns are allowed to attend. Weber said, based on the numbers, the subcommittee was impressed.

David Peling inquired if students must attend this program and Grossman stated Planning and Placement Team discussions need to occur and when a transition plan is put in place, GPS can state that this is the recommended program. Grossman said the program would begin on Sept. 1, 2023. Kristina Gilton inquired when the program ends if a student turns 22 in December—midyear. Director of Pupil Personnel Services Angela Ehrenwerth said the student finishes their public education a day before their 22nd birthday.

A motion was made by David Peling and seconded by Monica Logan that the Granby Board of Education approve the Post-Secondary Transition Program for 18- to 22-year-old students to begin in the 2023-2024 school year. This motion passed unanimously.

BOS deliberates best investment plan for Land Trust gift

By Shirley Murtha

The Town of Granby recently accepted the promise of $500,000 from the Granby Land Trust to create a restricted investment account to support the operation, maintenance and capital expenses of Holcomb Farm. The gift is one of the primary components of the long-term conservation and sustainability plan for the Farm. The Land Trust gift will enable the Town to support Holcomb Farm operations and maintenance without always using tax dollars. Earnings from the account may also be used, in limited circumstances, for other passive recreational activities in Granby.

Discussions with legal counsel and investment advisors resulted in the rec-

ommendation to place the gift in a trust fund, which affords the town certain benefits including investment selection flexibility, asset allocation flexibility, spending flexibility and potential account growth. It will require establishing an additional account outside of the Town’s existing financial framework and the formation of a trust, which will incur small incremental costs.

The Selectmen concurred that a Trust Fund was the best option for handling the $500,000. Town Manager Erica Robertson agreed to work with the town attorney to prepare a draft document for an upcoming meeting for the board to study.

Granby B.E.A.R.* Transition Academy set to begin in the fall at the YMCA

*Bringing Emerging Adults Resources

Hartford Foundation offers grants for projects serving Granby

Seth Pomeroy Holcombe and Lucy Eaton Holcombe were longtime residents of North Granby. Both were active in their community, supporting the culture and history of the town they loved. Seth and Lucy served on many boards and committees, and shared a passion for Morgan horses, giving a home to many horses over the years and founding the Granby Horse Council. To continue their lifetime of giving, the Holcombes established the Pomeroy-Brace Fund at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving to support organizations that benefit people and institutions in Granby.

The Fund has opened its 2023 Request for Proposals to support a wide range of needs for organizations serving Granby. Past grants supported capital/equipment projects, capacity building, enhancing or strengthening existing activities, general operating support, and new activities or services. Grants ranging from

$1,000 to $28,000 will be awarded, depending upon the size and maturation of the agency and the scope of work to be performed through the proposed project.

In 2022, the Pomeroy-Brace Fund provided 16 grants totaling more than $200,000.

The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving is the community foundation for Hartford and 28 surrounding towns. Through partnerships, the Foundation seeks to strengthen communities in Greater Hartford by putting philanthropy in action to dismantle structural racism and achieve equity in social and economic mobility. Made possible by the gifts of generous individuals, families and organizations, the Foundation has awarded grants of more than $900 million since its founding in 1925. For more information, visit hfpg.org or call 860-548-1888.

Volunteers Needed to Celebrate GMHS Senior Class

By Kate Roy Granby Parents for

a

Safe Graduation (GPSG),

an all-volunteer, non-profit organization that organizes a substancefree Grad Night celebration for Granby Memorial High School (GMHS) graduates, is seeking volunteers to help with the event.

The event can’t take place without volunteers to make it happen. The event

is typically chaperoned by underclassmen parents, not the senior parents, so it is especially important for new volunteers to step up each year. Help is needed each year with food, room set up, decorations, chaperoning and other tasks. Volunteers are needed both in planning and preparation for the event, and at the party itself.

The GMHS Safe Grad Committee holds meetings the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m., through May (other than during school vacations). Meetings are held in the media center at GMHS. To keep up to date on committee happenings, follow the Facebook page found at facebook.com/granbyctsafegrad/

Several fundraisers are planned in the coming months to make this event possible.

Interested in sending a frolicking flock of flamingoes to your friends? The Safe Grad Committee will surprise your friends with a “flocking” for a $30 donation. Email gradflock@yahoo.com for more details or to order a flocking.

Cash donations are also welcome. To make a donation, please send checks payable to “Granby Parents for a Safe Graduation” to Granby Parents for a Safe Graduation, Attn: Treasurer, PO Box 81, Granby, CT 06035.

The committee also gladly accepts donated raffle prizes. Anyone interested in donating prizes, or volunteering at the party, can email granbyparentssafegrad@gmail.com

Please consider being a part of this special event honoring our graduating seniors of the Class of 2023. Help us support this proud Granby tradition!

Puzzle Sale at Library March 18th

On Saturday March 18, from 10 a.m.–noon, the Friends of the Granby Public Libraries will have several tables of puzzles for sale inside the main library. There will be a great assortment to choose from with prices starting at just $1.

Check out its Facebook page, Friends of the Granby Public Libraries, for more information on the event. All proceeds of the sale will support the libraries.

Members of the GMHS Class of 2022 enjoy the Safe Grad Party at the YMCA. Submitted photo

residents

2023 RFPs for Pomeroy-Brace fund are now open

In Town Focus

Salmon Brook Historical Society

Research Library (Preservation Barn) is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon or by appointment by calling 860-653-9713. Research fee is $25 per hour.

Museum Store (Enders House) is open on Tuesdays (Preservation Barn) and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Items for sale can be viewed on our website at salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com Merchandise available include books, maps, mugs, notecards, jigsaw puzzle and many more Granby items.

The Spring Flea Market is scheduled for Saturday, May 20 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Society’s grounds. Please contact Dave at 860-653-3965 for vendor information. Flea Market donations to the Society will be accepted on Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 a.m. to noon through May 16.

Summer House Tours will begin on Sunday, June 4.

Fall Flea Market is scheduled for Saturday Oct. 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Society’s grounds.

Membership in the Salmon Brook Historical Society offers many benefits including free tours, newsletters, annual dinner in April, Christmas house tour and wassail party in December and the opportunity to learn and help preserve Granby history. The society welcomes everyone. You do not need to be a Granby native, own an old house or be old. However, you do need to care about the history of Granby. Visit our website or stop by the museum on Thursdays between 9 a.m. and noon for an application.

The Salmon Brook Historical Society is located at 208 Salmon Brook Street, Granby CT.

Image editing is topic for March Camera Club

The Granby Camera Club meeting on Monday, March 6 at 7p.m. will be a Zoom meeting. If you would like an invitation to this meeting, please contact pjgranby38@gmail.com for your Zoom invitation. Image editing will be the program for the meeting. The Scavenger Hunt words for February are: Smile, Black and White, and Favorite. There will be an uploading opportunity so we can share these during our Zoom meeting.

Granby Civic Club

The Granby Civic Club will meet on Thursday, March 16, at 1 p.m. at the Senior Center. The guest speaker will be Sandra Yost, Granby Director of Human Services. She will be discussing the challenges of caring for people during Covid as well as providing an update on current economic needs. Refreshments will be served. Guests and new members always welcome!

Women’s Breakfast Hosts Singing Group

On March 1st the Granby Women’s Breakfast Club will host the 25-member Intonation Singing Group that has been delighting their audiences in the Farmington Valley for over the past 25 years. Over time they have established a repertoire of over 100 songs. The group will perform in the Community Room at the Granby Senior Center under the direction of Greg Babel, a professor at the Hartt School of Music. Register early for this event to enjoy not only the musical event but a great breakfast that will begin at 8:30 a.m. followed by the performance. Call the Senior Center at 860 844-5350 or log into the Schedule icon on the Granby Senior Website to register. Cost is $5.

Men’s Breakfast is March 10

The next Granby Men’s Breakfast will be Friday morning March 10, at 8:30, at the Granby Senior Center. Our speaker is Dave Emery, Granby Land Trust board member, presenting the history of our Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve and its current status.

Please register by calling the Granby Senior Center 860- 844-5352. A $5 fee for the hot breakfast will be collected at the door.

Last month Sally Flagg presented on Granby’s own Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen. Granby Men’s Breakfast raised $328 for them at this event

Please arrive at the Center between 8 and 8:30 AM for check-in, pay $5, get your badge, find a table, hear announcements, and have coffee before breakfast.

Let your friends and new neighbors know that men (of any age) interested in joining the Granby Men’s Breakfast should send their contact information to gmensbkfst@gmail.com and they will be added to the email notification list.

Social Services

The focus of the Social Services Department is to coordinate existing federal, state, regional and local services, to increase community awareness of these services and to develop new programs to meet the needs of Granby residents. For more information about any of the following programs, contact Director Sandy Yost at 860-844-5351. Office hours are weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Granby Local Assistance Program

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

Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP):

During the winter months, help is available to households to help pay for heating fuel in the form of oil, gas, or electric heat. Benefits are available to households with incomes up to sixty percent of the state median income. Processing will be delayed if required paperwork is missing. Call the office at 860-844-5351 to see if your household qualifies.

APPLICATION DEADLINES: March 15.

Deadline for deliverable fuel authorizations or deliveries from Basic Benefits or Crisis Assistance for clients already awarded CEAP benefits. May 31, 2023: Last day to apply for CEAP Eversource Assistance Programs

Winter protection for income eligible households prevents shutoff between Nov. 1, 2022–May 1, 2023. NuStart Program offers forgiveness of overdue balances as on time, monthly budget payments are made. Call Eversource at 800-286-2828 or visit Eversource.com/BillHelp.

Elderly (65+) or Disabled HOMEOWNERS TAX RELIEF

Applications for the Homeowners Tax Relief program are accepted Feb. 1– May 15, 2023. Maximum income guidelines for single/unmarried taxpayer are $53,900. To apply contact the Assessor’s office at 860-844-5312.

Elderly (65+) or Disabled RENTERS REBATE

Applications for the Renters Rebate program will be accepted beginning April 1 through October 1, 2023. Maximum income guidelines are: Married Couple - $49,100; Single- $40,300.

Applicant must have turned 65 years of age by the end of 2022. Persons under 65 years of age who are receiving Social Security Disability are also eligible.

Renters Requirements (not comprehensive):

• Must have rented in Granby, CT during 2022 and currently reside in Connecticut.

• Provide proof of rent paid in 2022. (Rent receipts from landlord or cancelled checks).

• Provide proof of actual bills paid in 2022 for electricity, gas, water, and fuel.

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

Resources and Services

Child Welfare Resources – Tools for supporting virtual times for families and child welfare workforce tools are available through the Child Welfare Information Gateway at cwig@ communications.childwelfare.gov

Domestic Violence - If you need help or just someone to talk to, please visit CTSafeConnect.org or call or text (888) 774-2900. Advocates available 24/7.

Mental Health and Emergencies – If you are experiencing a true medical emergency or crisis, please call 911 or proceed to your nearest emergency room. You can also access mobile crisis services by dialing 2-1-1.

Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273- 8255

When it Builds Up, Talk it Out, a campaign launched by United Way 211 and DCF, you can talk to a professional by calling 833-258-5011 or www.talkitoutct.com

Food Resources

Granby Food Pantry- Located at 248 Salmon Brook Street, Granby.

Granby Food Pantry Hours: Tuesday 10:30 AM to Noon / Thursday 2– 3:30 p.m.

Before using the Granby Food Pantry, you must qualify with the Town of Granby Social Services Department. An appointment is necessary; call 860-844-5350 to schedule.

“Waste Not Want Not Community

Kitchen”–Free meal available as drive up to pick up service every Wednesday 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. at South Congregational Church, 242 Salmon Brook St, Granby The meal is free, but an offering is always welcome.

Mobile FoodShare –1:30–2 p.m. Every other Tuesday. Call for 2023 dates

Please park behind South Congregational Church and Visiting Nurses Building only. Please remember to bring your own bags. For more locations or weather permitted cancellations visit ctfoodbank.org/get-help/connecticut-food-banks-mobile-pantry-schedule/ Life Church Hope 4 Life Food Pantry-–Located at 23 Griffin Road, Granby

The food pantry is open on Wednesdays from 2 to 6 PM to members of Life Church as well as anyone who is in need. No qualification necessary. Please bring your own bags. For more information, please call the church office at 860653-3308.

Open Cupboard Pantry –First Congregational Church, 219 North Granby Road. Distributions are on Fridays between 3-4 p.m. These packs contain nutritious non-perishable food items. Please enter the church parking lot via North entrance on Stratton Road. Call First Church at 860-653-4537 with any questions.

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

Granby Land Trust Remembers

Longtime GLT Board Member Dick Caley

By Trish Percival

The Granby Land Trust honors one of Granby’s best: past GLT Board Member Dick Caley, who passed away in December 2022. Dick was a special person who is very much missed. He was an incredibly loyal friend, father and spouse. He was a Granby citizen who got involved with and served his community. He served by volunteering for Granby’s Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen, serving as president of the Salmon Brook Watershed Association, and serving multiple terms on the Granby Land Trust Board of Directors. For the GLT, he also led hikes, shared his valuable scientific knowledge, and generously supported the GLT Art Show every year.

Dick loved the land and had a biologist’s curiosity about nature. He was an especially staunch advocate for our

streams and the life in them. He was a beloved biology teacher at the Kingswood-Oxford School in West Hartford for 37 years, where he also served as chairman of its Science Department. In the early 1980s, he and wife Carol found a plot of land in Granby where they designed and built their family home, which included a farm with animals. He was smart, intellectually curious, and witty; a terrific athlete who loved playing golf with his son Josh; someone who cared about the environment, was kind to all, and a true friend, loyal and loving. He was quick to laugh and quick to make others laugh. Time spent with Dick was time spent well.

For the past nine years, Dick’s passion lay in serving as a board member for Jog Your Memory 5K, an organization started by his daughter, Jess, and her husband, Bob, in honor of his wife Carol’s struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Dick loved Carol so much and was incredibly dedicated to her. To honor Dick and recognize his dedication to helping others, you can make an online donation to Jog Your Memory 5K, which has created the Dick Caley Caregiver Fund in his memory, at jogyourmemory5k.org/ or by mail to Jog Your Memory 5K, 56 Nichols Road, Needham, MA 02492.

The Granby Land Trust mourns the passing of longtime GLT member and former GLT board member Dick Caley, shown at left in 2016, giving a Land Trust lecture.

by School Psychologist AnneMarie Cox, LPCa

Building the Balance

When it comes to screen time and social media, the research being done is clear: tweens and young teens that spend time on social media are at greater risk for several mental health issues including suicidal ideation, depression, low self-esteem and anxiety. So, what is the answer? How do we build a healthy balance between “screen time” and “green time”. Green time? It is just what it sounds like, time outside in nature. Research is also confirming that our kids are healthier if they have time outside playing.

One suggestion gaining traction is the “wait till eight” movement. Parents are being asked to wait until 8th grade before buying their children a smart phone. Of course, not having a smart phone will not keep your child off social media completely, but it will break the 24/7 connectivity that iPhone’s launch in 2010 introduced to the general population. Prior to the iPhone, smart phones were mostly a business device. Men and women in suits with Blackberry devices were the ones glued to a phone. The iPhone changed that in an instant. Platforms like Facebook grew exponentially, and the age of social media was born.

It is important to take a moment and consider how these social media platforms work. They are free. So why do they exist? Where is the money? It is in clicks and data mining. Instagram, Facebook, Snap Chat and the like make money by encouraging users to “like” things. And the likes are addictive—really, they are truly addictive. Many of our youth are equating likes with popularity. Selfesteem is tied to responses to posts and followers. Advertisers pay for clicks and data on what users like.

In addition to the issues with social media and the impact of “influencers” on our kid’s self-esteem, there is the 24/7 connectivity issue. Cellphones allow us to carry our connections with us all the time. Disagreements at school don’t end when a child goes home. In addition, conflicts between two people are often chimed in on by entire groups of friends, some of whom may not even know the kids initially involved in the argument or incident. Group texts can explode a child’s phone with many unkind and even hateful comments. The same goes for any social media apps they may be on. A small disagreement can grow to involve a multitude of commenters taking sides and making judgments. And let’s not forget about bullying. It is no longer limited to the school setting. Bullying follows kids home to the dinner table, the backyard and their bedrooms.

So, parents of younger children are finding themselves between a rock and a hard place. The horse is out of the barn, and many kids in upper elementary and middle school have smart phones. How do you tell your younger child that yes, big sister got a phone in 6th grade, but you have to wait until 8th? My suggestion is that you consider getting them phones that they can use for text only. This meets our need to reach our kids whenever we need to, but limits the 24/7 connectivity to social media. I hope we can close that gate we opened, and get the horse back into the barn until our kids are a little bit older. It is likely to start with some drama, but in the end I suspect our kids will be happier, especially if the waiting until eight becomes the standard, not the exception.

Energize Connecticut opens 18th annual eesmarts™ student contest

New contest prompts encourage students to show off their energy efficiency smarts; deadline March 31

Energize Connecticut sponsors, Eversource, and AVANGRID, Inc. subsidiaries United Illuminating, Southern Connecticut Gas and Connecticut Natural Gas, announced today that the 18th annual eesmarts Student Contest is accepting submissions until March 31, 2023.

This year updates to grade-specific prompts will foster students’ creativity and allow new technologies and social media platforms to be used in responses. The contest is open to Connecticut students in grades K-12 and topics are focused on energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainability solutions.

“For almost two decades, the eesmarts Student Contest has engaged students throughout Connecticut and has asked them to use their imagination and knowledge to come up with solutions to address real-world energy matters,” said Tilak Subrahmanian, Eversource Vice President of Energy Efficiency and Electric Mobility. “Our new prompts are designed to foster creativity and empower students to leverage new technologies and tools that are readily available to them today. We are excited to see how students implement these platforms to address critical energy issues and the importance of energy efficiency in their responses this year.”

“Computers, video, social media and even gaming technology have changed how students interact with and learn about important environmental issues such as energy conservation, renewable energy and energy efficiency,”

said Erik Robie, Director of Customer Programs and Products at AVANGRID.

“Our students are our future. We hope that with these changes more students are engaged in the eesmarts Student Contest and inspire others to make meaningful change in our community.”

Students in grades K-8 are assigned grade-specific topics and asked to submit their entries in the form of a poster (Grades K-2), narrative (Grade 3), letter to the principal (Grade 4), children’s picture book (Grade 5), persuasive TikTok (Grade 6), anime or comic strip (Grade 7), or a public service announcement for social media (Grade 8).

Students in Grades 9-11 are asked to propose a community-based project to address an energy-related issue. Students may work in groups of up to three members. The winning team’s school will receive funding to help make their proposed project a reality and must complete it by March 31, 2024.

Students competing in the Grade 12 category will produce a persuasive infographic that advocates for energy conservation and alternate energy sources. Infographics are eye-catching, concise overviews (typically one page) that contain images, data visualizations (charts or graphs), and minimal text. Entries will be evaluated based on scientific accuracy and concise and convincing imagery.

Finalists in all categories and grade levels will be honored at a special awards ceremony to be held in May 2023. Winners will receive a certificate and an Amazon gift card.

For more information about the contest, please visit www.eesmarts.com/ contest.

Granby Memorial High School invaded by alien plant!

By Mackenzie Janski, GMHS student

Granby Memorial High School Dramatic Arts is excited to present Little Shop of Horrors, a thrilling tale about a plant gone wild. Produced in cooperation with Music Theater International, Little Shop of Horrors features music by Alan Menkin and lyrics and book by Howard Ashman. This funny and entertaining show stars senior Isabel Gravlin as Audrey, and fellow seniors Trevor Thompson as Orin Scrivello, CeCe Nigri as Crystal, and Abby Caruso as an Urchin, with Christian Cusano and Luke Staples as Audrey 2. Under the musical direction of Mrs. Shilansky, we are creating beautiful harmonies and wonderful musical moments. Our fabulous director Nikki [Currie-Huggard] has helped us bring our characters to life on stage. She is so excited for you to see the final result of all our hard work! Meg Funk has joined the production team as our dance instructor choreographing amazing dances filled with sass to match the rock’n’roll feel of the show. Hold-

ing us together making sure things run smoothly behind the scenes is our production coordinator and stage manager, Mrs. Burke. “Mama Spatch” (aka Janet Spatcher) and Catie Yanchak — with the help of the students on set crew— have brought Skid Row to life on our stage. From the dilapidated alley dumpsters to the flower shop where Audrey 2 makes her debut, this set is sure to leave you immersed in the rundown environment of downtown New York.

The cast is excited to share beautiful songs and energetic dances that they have been rehearsing for the past two months. It has been such a great experience being part of this show and seeing the progress made by the cast and crew. Rehearsals have been a blast, full of laughter and new friendships. We hope you’ll come see us “down on Skid Row” on Saint Patrick’s Day weekend - March 17 and 18 at 7 p.m. and March 19 at 2 p.m (Parental Discretion is Advised.)

GMHS drama students rehearse Little Shop of Horrors

Submitted photo

80-year-old

By Kimberly Pereira

Granby

In the summer of 1993, 51-year-old George Gill Ducharme received a letter from his aunt, Lauretta, that changed his identity, his understanding of family, and the course of his life. The letter confirmed rumors centering around George’s 5th great-grandfather, Samuel Joseph Gill, that had swirled around family reunions since his boyhood.

Attached to the letter was a newspaper article from the late 1600s describing the abduction of 10-year-old Samuel Gill while he was picking strawberries in the Puritan colony of Salisbury, Massachusetts. The boy had been taken by the Abenaki tribe to Saint-François-du-Lac in the First Nations reserve of Odanak, Quebec, Canada, as a captive. Despite repeated requests and visits from his family, Samuel decided to stay with the Abenaki, and his descendants became enmeshed with those of his Abenaki captors.

resident

walking 400 miles in honor of ancestor

After reading the letter and realizing that he was a descendant of Abenakis, George embarked on a journey to investigate and understand his genealogy.

“It was absolutely invigorating,” says George. “It added a richness that I had no knowledge of. But also, it was very, very sad and frustrating that this part of my experience had to be and was hidden.”

Through his research, George discovered his Abenaki heritage was obscured to protect him. George’s great-grandparents immigrated to Lowell, Massachusetts, from Canadian First Nations reservations in the 1890s in search of work in the mills. Just a few decades later, a eugenics movement “specifically aimed at FrenchCanadian Abenakis, which meant us,” George says, took root in New England.

“The word from the nuns and the priests and the family members was, ‘Do not tell the kids. Do not tell the kids that there’s any Indian here.’” Nearly a century later, George set about to uncover the truth about his family.

George connected with John Moody of the Winter Center for Indigenous Traditions at a powwow in Littleton, New Hampshire. John Moody is an ethnohistorian and, along with his wife Donna Moody (who passed away in April 2022), has worked tirelessly to serve the less privileged of society and advocate for the Abenaki people. With John’s guidance, George dived into the literature on captives and the French and Indian Wars. “In each step of the way,” George remembers, “it became a little more exciting.”

George uncovered historical accounts describing how Samuel, born on September 16, 1687, was abducted on June 10, 1697. His father, Sargent Samuel Gill, wrote several petitions asking for his son’s release, and went to visit him a few times, but Samuel decided to stay

with the Abenaki. In learning about the Abenaki, George began to understand why Samuel decided to stay. The native approach to raising young boys was completely opposite to that of the strict Puritan community Samuel was born into. Their approach was to “develop the gifts that the Great Spirit had given and put in this cherished child,” and as for his ancestor, George adds, “Samuel, along with others, felt, ‘hey, this is a pretty good life up here. I get to, as a 10-year-old boy, ride around on horses. I’m having a lot of fun.’ ” Samuel Gill’s children became important members and leaders of the Abenaki tribe in Odanak.

Feeling empowered by the historical record that not only confirmed the story of Samuel Gill but described his children and grandchildren, George applied for membership with the Abenaki tribe and was accepted in 1996. He now holds a Certificate of Indian Status and Citizenship from the Sovereign Abenaki Nation, Republic of Missiquoi.

George’s research led him to pursue a Masters of Arts in Liberal Studies degree at Dartmouth College, with Dr. Colin Gordon Calloway as his advisor. Dr. Calloway is the John Kimball, Jr. 1943 Professor of History and Professor of Native American Studies and has published numerous books on the history of Dartmouth College, its ties to Native Americans, as well as Native American history including the Gill family. From 1998 to 2003, George attended Dartmouth College. George and his wife, Joan, would commute from Granby to Hanover, New Hampshire, every Tuesday during the summer so that George could attend classes until Thursday, when they would return to Granby. To George, who holds a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and a master’s degree in Special Education, pursuing this new degree represented a labor of love. “I went up there and just began to have a fantastic time,” George recalls, “I loved every moment of it.” His 310-page thesis, titled “Gill: A Chronicle of a White Indian Family,”

George Gill Ducharme, Pat Beeman, Jeanne Grass, and John Moody on an old Indian trail near Websterville and Orange, Vt. on Aug. 31, 2022, while journeying toward Odanak

tells the story of George’s pilgrimage into his family’s past.

To honor his 5th great-grandfather and the Abenaki people, George dreamed of recreating the over-400 mile walk Samuel Gill and the Abenaki would have taken from Salisbury, Massachusetts, to Odanak, Quebec, Canada. In 2022, George saw his dream come true. To celebrate his 80th year of life and the 325th anniversary of Samuel Gill’s capture, George and several friends began the Gill Walk. Their plan was to traverse the countryside from Salisbury to Odanak, travelling along the rivers as the Abenaki would have, all while learning local indigenous history on the way.

The mission of the Gill Walk is to quietly honor indigenous people such as the Abenaki, who have inhabited what is now New England and Canada for 12,000 years. Preserving Abenaki traditions and promoting reconciliation and understanding are key to each step George and his companions Jeanne Grass and Pat Beeman take. Along the way, they stop to recognize historical markers, hear indigenous stories, and honor the homeland. Their walk has already raised nearly $90,000 to benefit the Winter Center for Indigenous Traditions, which uses the money to pay expenses related to their new Winter Center Offices and Winter Archives, Library, and Research Center.

In July 2023, George, Pat, and Jeanne –—with John Moody in their chase vehicle dubbed the “Silver Canoe” —will pick up the walk where they left off in Colchester, Vermont, and cross into Canada, finally concluding their trek in Odanak, Quebec, Canada. At a rate of 15 miles per day, they walk the history that George Gill Ducharme has been reading and writing about for the past 30 years of his life since he learned the story of Samuel Gill. Anyone interested in following their journey and supporting the Winter Center can write to George: George Gill Ducharme, Communitas, Box 358, Manchester, CT 06045.

Grant application for cemetery upkeep

By Shirley Murtha

Granby has at least five cemeteries, which may be a surprise to residents who are familiar with only the large one near the town center. Some of these cemeteries could use some restoration.

The State of Connecticut established a Neglected Cemetery Account that makes grant money available through the Office of Policy and Management.

The grants are awarded as two-year contracts. Granby first entered into such an agreement in 2019 when John Ward was Town Manager.

A certified cemetery is one that has a minimum of six places of internment.

The grants are awarded for four types of work: clearing of weeds, briars and bushes; mowing lawn areas; repairing fences or walls; straightening, repairing and/or restoring memorial stones. Granby’s Public Works Department would do the physical work, using the grant money for materials only.

At the January 24 Board of Selectmen meeting, Town Manager Erica Robertson requested that the board authorize an application to the NCA for $5,000 to support the preservation of town-maintained cemeteries. The board approved the request.

George Gill Ducharme and John Moody with a totem pole in Swanton, Vt., Sept. 20, 2022. Submitted photos

Granby Grange installs new officers

Seated from l:w Flora, Linda DePamphalis; Lecturer, Judy Doyle; Vice President Philip Marshall; President Ron Cowdrey; Treasurer Carol Innes; and Ceres, Nancy Andrulot. Standing from l Chaplain Lucian Cascio; Secretary Kara Marshall; Assistant Steward Stephen Gilkey; Lady Assistant Steward Karla Andrulot; State Grange President Rob Buck; Gatekeeper Natalee Roberts; Pomona Jackie Martin; and Pianist Denise Canora. Not pictured: executive committee members Dave Roberts (three-year term) and Conrad Krupa (one-year term) and Steward Klynn Matthews. Photo by/or submitted.

By Dave Roberts

On Sunday, Jan. 15, Granby Grange was honored to welcome Connecticut State Grange President Rob Buck for his first visit to historic Granby Grange Hall at 212 North Granby Road. His visit was especially appropriate as Granby Grange #5 was the home of Connecticut’s first State Grange President, Harvey Goddard, from 1875-1878. During Buck’s visit, Granby Grange broke the modern state Grange history record by welcoming 29 new members to its ranks.

Connecticut State Grange General Deputy Peter Keefe installed these 29 new Granby Grange members.

During his congratulatory remarks, Buck said that Granby Grange now holds the record for the most new members added in one day by exceeding the record set recently by Wallingford Grange. New Granby Grange members include Connecticut State Rep. Mark Anderson, Salmon Brook Historical Society (SBHS) President Todd Vibert, SBHS Curator Martha Miller, SBHS Board Member Philip Marshall, and Granby Conservation Chairman Dave Roberts and commissioners David Desiderato and Kara Marshall. The large

number of new members was the result of a collaboration with Riverton Grange #169 to help reinvigorate their neighbor’s membership. Newly installed Granby Grange President Ron Cowdrey personally thanked Riverton Grange, their members, and in particular President Dave Roberts for all their tireless work to help bring new members to Granby Grange.

Newly elected Granby Grange officers for 2023 who were inducted by General Deputy Peter Keefe and his installation team includes: President Ron Cowdrey, Vice President Philip Marshall, Lecturer Judy Doyle, Teasurer Carol Innes, Secretary Kara Marshall and the executive committee: Dave Roberts (3 years), Lucian Cascio (2 years) and Conrad Krupa (1 year), steward Klynn Matthews, assistant steward Stephen Gilkey, lady assistant steward Karla Andrulot, Ceres Nancy Andrulot, Flora Linda DePamphalis, Pomona Jackie Martin, Chaplain, Lucian Cascio, gatekeeper Natalee Roberts and pianist Denise Canora.

Following this historic event of having all Grange offices filled, the large audience was served refreshments provided by Granby Grange and Riverton

Grange. Granby Grange will next work on appointing committee chairs and members to all its local Grange committees. Granby Grange would like to invite other Grangers, as well as those interested in joining our Grange, to come visit our historic Grange Hall and experience the new enthusiasm we have at Granby Grange.

Upcoming events include:

Sunday, March 12, 2023, business meeting at 2 p.m. by Zoom; please contact Dave Roberts for the Zoom information at either 860-469-5067 or Granbydavidroberts@gmail.com.

Sunday, March 26, 2023, monthly membership meeting (in-person); lecturer Judy Doyle program on “Caterpillars and Butterflies.” Refreshments will be served following the meeting.

Think about a community garden plot

It doesn’t seem like it now but spring will be here before you know it. If you love to garden, but don’t have a garden spot at home, the Granby Community Garden might be just the place for you.

The community garden is chemicalfree with many gardeners now using no-till methods to grow a wide variety of vegetables and flowers. Whether you are seasoned grower or a beginner, you will find a friendly community that loves to share its enjoyment of gardening as well as ideas and growing methods.

Consider applying for a 20’ x 20’ plot at the Granby Community Garden on Hungary Road. You may even share a plot with a friend.

To learn more and to apply, visit PlanetEandMe.com and click on the Granby Community Garden tab. We look forward to meeting you.

by Michael Ungerleider D.M.D

Q: I broke my tooth right to the gumline...what can I do?

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

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

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

If you feel that you or a loved one can benefit from implant dentistry, call now for a free consultation or second opinion from the Granby Dental Center, a Center dedicated to State of the Art Dental Solutions to Clinical Dilemmas. The doctors and staff of the Granby Dental Center invite you to see all of the new and exciting advances in modern dentistry at our office. Lasers can eliminate the need for injections and the sound of the drill! CEREC CAD-CAM technology allows us to make crowns in just one visit without the impressions or temporaries! Computerized Dental Radiography allows us to lower radiation doses to our patients by 50-90%! Cone Beam Computerized Tomography (CBCT) allows us to visualize your whole mouth and jaws in Three Dimensions (3D) which allows improved Diagnosis and greater precision of treatment. INVISALIGN lets you straighten your teeth without braces—we are your Invisalign connection!

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

If you have a question you would like answered, or would like a tour of our modern office to view our sterilization procedures and to meet our friendly, caring staff, please contact us or visit our website:

www.granbydentalcenter.com

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

860-653-3220

Scan the QR symbol below to learn more about our office:

Granby Road Race: Introducing the next generation to running

By Anna Mitkevicius Smith and Katie Lauder Piccirillo

The Granby Road Race (GRR) committee is gearing up for its 53rd race on May 6, 2023. The GRR has become a consistent part of the community, and we have become used to hearing about the race, seeing the banner at the center of town, and waiting in traffic on race day; but if you take a step back and look at what the Granby Road Race does for the town of Granby, it really is amazing.

Last year was the first year the GRR held a kids’ fun run. The fun run was free of charge, it was easy to participate in, and it was a perfect course where parents could watch their children who could easily see where they needed to go. This kids’ race alone has the potential to be hugely impactful to our younger population. Introducing youth to a lifetime method of exercise empowers them to see what their bodies can do.

The GRR committee also strives to keep the race inclusive to all adults, allowing walkers to participate, making the 5k an adaptive-friendly route, and focusing on completion of the course.

Then we have the community of Granby and surrounding towns. The goal of the GRR is to use 100 percent of race fees to sponsor families who would like access to the YMCA but who may not be able to afford it. To make this possible, the GRR relies on local businesses to assist with the costs of putting on the race. And those com-

panies always come through. Even during COVID seasons when many were not thriving, the Granby community stepped up and allowed the GRR to continue. This year is no different with companies throughout Granby, East Granby, and Simsbury already chipping in to help support the mission of the Y.

In addition to the generosity of local businesses, there are other aspects of the Granby community that support the Race. The Granby Ambulance Association always sets aside the first Saturday in May to be stationed outside of McLeans and at the finish line of the race; the Granby Camera Club positions some of its members throughout the course routes to get high quality photos of our runners; members of the Blue Blazer club are consistently stationed at all the 10k mile markers prepared to give runners their mile splits; and McLean Game Refuge always comes through with allowing the GRR access to that pristine piece of land of which Granby is so proud.

Some may dare to say that nothing like the Granby Road Race brings the community of Granby closer together or highlights the absolute best parts of Granby. The town of Granby should be extremely proud of their involvement in this race year after year. So, how will you be involved in this year’s Granby Road Race?

For more information on the Granby Road Race sponsored by the YMCA visit ghymca.org/locations/farmington-valley-ymca/granby-road-race or follow @ granbyroadrace on social media.

T his is the year for

ear, eyes closed, of in a serene realm in a dance with time, as he lures us there with him. Then a cutting strathspey to kick it into a higher gear as he whoops out loud and smiles at the crowd… Wood simply dropped every single jaw in the house.”

This is what Todd Maclean of Canada’s Charlottown Guardian wrote after a Richard Wood show.

Music Series features fiddler

For over three decades this prize-winning fiddler from Prince Edward Island has blown away audiences around the world. Richard Wood has shared stages with The Chieftains and Shania Twain and played Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Epcot, on Good Morning America and The David Letterman Show. Now he comes to Granby, Conn.

“Picture it. A graceful tune to start off the set, with beautiful zippering lines, played while caressing the fiddle to his

Come hear Richard’s tradition-born, fiery brand of Celtic fiddle music on Saturday March 25, at Granby Congregational Church South Campus Fellowship Hall, 242 Salmon Brook St., Granby. Show starts at 7:30. Doors open at 7. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. For advance tickets call or text 860-999-3743 or online at www.salmonbrookmusicseries.com

The venue is cozy and ticket demand is likely to be high, so advance tickets are the best way to ensure that you get in. Masks are not mandatory but are encouraged and will be available at the door.

WAY

Fiddler Richard Wood will play Celtic fiddle music March 25, at 242 Salmon Brook Street.

March is Maple Season

By Nina Jamison

Back when we lived high up in the Vermont hills, one of the first signs of Spring was the chorus of spring peepers in March. The jinglelike sound of their mating calls echoed up from the marsh a mile below us. Another sign was snow pulling back from the base of the trees, as radiant heat from sunlight was absorbed by the bark and radiated back into the surrounding snow. On warmer days

Drumrolls

Katherine Logee was named to the fall dean’s list at Anna Maria College. Endicott College has named the following students to the fall dean’s list: Sarah Bennett, a marketing major; Matthew Donovan, a sport manage-

I could imagine the sap stirring in the roots and flowing upward into the trunk.

Driving on nearby Green Mountain Turnpike (really just a dirt road), I knew Spring had truly arrived when I saw the first plumes of white smoke from the chimney of Mitch’s Maples, telling me the boiling of raw sap into delicious maple syrup had begun.

Maple finds its way into all kinds of dishes; this is one of my favorites:

Vermont Maple-Fried Apples and Dried Tart Cherries

2 Tbs. butter

6-7 apples cut into slices—not too thin (I like Honeycrisp)

1/4 tsp. salt

2 tsp. granulated white or maple sugar

1/4 cup maple syrup, (I suggest Grade A Very Dark–used to be called Grade B)

1/4 tsp. each nutmeg, ginger, and cinnamon

1/3 cup tart dried cherries or raisins

Melt the butter in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Add apples and salt and cook for about 3 minutes until well coated with butter. Lower heat and stir in maple syrup. Cover and cook for about another 3 minutes.

Mix together the spices and sugar and sprinkle over the cooked apples to coat. Add dried cherries or raisins and stir. Cook the mixture uncovered until the apples start to soften, about 8 minutes depending on the kind of apples you use.

Enjoy on pancakes, French toast, or over pound cake.

ment major; Daniel Pierce, a sport management major; Jack Steele, a sport management major; Mackenzie Dowd, a mathematics major, and Erica Presbie, a marketing major.

Garrett Thompson, a cyber secu-

Mark Brady Kitchens DESIGN & REMODELING

860-306-5867

By appt. 490 Salmon Brook St., Granby, CTwww.markbradykitchens.com

Registrars

ERIC Report Canvass of Voters

The second wave of annual canvass letters from out-of-state reports is being sent in February. This list compares our registry data with over 30 other participating states. If you receive an envelope with the bright red “DO NOT RISK YOUR RIGHT TO VOTE” with a response form and postage paid envelope, please check the appropriate boxes, personally sign, and date and return to Town Hall. Each year some voters will call Town Hall about this process, asking “Why did I get this?” There are five reasons: The post office reported that you moved within town. The post office or other state agency have reported that you moved out of town. You haven’t voted in any primary, referendum or election during the last four years (including two federal elections). The post office returned a mailing sent to you from the Registrars’ office as undeliverable. We received information from another state that flagged you as a potential duplicate voter.

Please note that only the addressed voter can fill out the form and sign. Family members and current residents can forward the mailing directly to the voter or send it back to the Post Office, who will return it to the Registrars. As of this writing only 81 replies have been returned and over 300 letters have been sent.

rity major, was named to the fall 2022 dean’s list at Rochester Institute of Technology.

Shelby Dzielak, a freshman at Keene State University made the dean’s list

Please Attend the Public Annual Budget Hearing at 7 p.m. on Monday, April 10th - Details TBA

All three town boards: education, finance and selectman will be doing a joint presentation of the budget as part of the annual public hearing to be held at 7 p.m. on April 10. Please check the town website in April for the details and a link.

By town charter we are scheduled for an in-person vote on Monday, April 24. This will be a machine vote on the proposed budget in the Town Hall Meeting Room in Granby’s Town Hall, 15 North Granby Road, and the polls will be open from 12 noon to 8 p.m..

Voter registration is a public record, and it is easy to confirm your voter registration. From the Town of Granby website there is a link to the Secretary of the State’s website’s online voter registration look-up tool: dir.ct.gov/ sots/LookUp.aspx There is also a link to Online Voter Registration to enroll or to make name, party, or address changes to an existing voter registration: voterregistration.ct.gov/ OLVR/welcome.do

Posted office hours for the Registrars’ office are Wednesdays from 9 am to 4 p.m. Paper voter registration forms are also available at any town hall, public library or DMV office and online at the Secretary of State’s website: sots. ct.gov

for the first semester.

Lauren C. VonHassel was named to the fall 2022 dean’s list at Fairfield University.

Nina Jamison

Vermont Maple-Fried Apples and Dried

Tart Cherries

Photos courtesy of Nina Jamison

Wells Road teachers lead by example

By Aubrie Koteen 4th grade student at Wells Road School

At Wells Road Intermediate School, we are always talking about being kind and helping people when they need it, so it’s good to see the teachers leading by example. That is exactly what teachers Rob Faber and Sarah Warner did in response to the Ofsuryk family’s loss.

On New Year’s Eve, former Wells Road students, Paityn and Allie Ofsuryk, lost their mother in a tragic car accident. Their mom, Tricia, was the rock of the family. She was a selfless giver to her community. Rob and Sarah knew both of Tricia’s daughters. When they heard about Tricia’s death, they knew they had to do something. They brainstormed a fundraiser and called it Beast Mode Photo Sessions.

Using their talents, they created a way for the community to give back to the family. Faber is not only a 4th grade teacher, but he is also the owner of RJ Photography. Warner is the school’s Music teacher and band director and is passionate about music.

Tricia was always giving to the community and her family. For instance, when Tricia’s sister died, she took her son in and cared of him until her death.

Tricia took care of her special needs daughter, Paityn, along with her other

daughter Allie. She was also well loved by her husband Richard Ofsuryk, who misses her dearly.

Faber and Warner’s unique fundraiser was open to current students, past students, and families from Granby and beyond. They were invited to bring something they are passionate about, whether a sport, an instrument, or even a book, and give their best “beast pose” for the camera.

With help from other Wells Road staff, former students, and other residents, Faber and Warner raised a little over $4,500. A hundred percent of the proceeds were given to Ofsuryk family.

Kindness is a main theme for students at Wells Road. The school community is always looking for ways to be kind. It is encouraged by Principal Greer and the teachers. Faber and Warner provided an amazing gift for Tricia’s family, but they also gave the gift of leading by example to their students.

This story about two wonderful, kind, and fun teachers will encourage more people to give selflessly to the community. But being kind doesn’t mean you have to give someone money. Saying hello or asking someone how they’re doing can be enough. You, too, can show the heart that was shown by these Wells Road teachers.

Conservation Conversation: All About EVs

Granby Public Library and Granby Conservation Commission co-sponsored a well-attended program called All About Electric Vehicles (EVs) on Feb. 13. Special guest presenters included Kent McCord, an Energy Engineer and member of the Granby Conservation Commission, and Jacob Buckman, Program Manager, Electric Mobility, Eversource Energy. They covered everything from environmental benefits and EV safety features to rebates and tax credits, from Telematics and charging options to research with an eye

toward the future. Handouts are available at the library.

Tricia Ofsuryk, husand Richard, daughters Allie and Paityn.

Photo courtesy of the Ofsuryk family

Author Aubrie Koteen

Wells Road teachers Rob Faber and Sarah Warner. Photos by Rob Faber and Jake Koteen

Speakers pictured are Jacob Buckman, Program Manager, Electric Mobility, Eversource Energy and Kent McCord, Energy Engineer and member of the Granby Conservation Commission.

Photo by Holly K. Johnson

Activities abound at GMHS

By Chase Alexander, GMHS Student

As the second semester has begun and shades of spring become increasingly apparent, events at Granby Memorial High School are beginning to signify a shift in the yearly calendar as well. GMHS’ vast assortment of student clubs, activities, and athletic teams have all devoted countless hours to perfecting their craft in anticipation of the busy, competitive March which awaits them.

As an event which garners attention throughout the Granby community, Granby Dramatic Arts has been rehearsing feverishly in preparation for its spring musical, Little Shop of Horrors. The production will span from Friday, March 17 through Sunday, March 19 at the Granby Memorial High School auditorium, with show times set for 7 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday before the cast is scheduled to perform its final show with a matinee performance at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets will begin to go on sale in early March and will be listed as $15 for students, teachers, and senior citizens and $18 for adults. More information can be found by visiting @gmhsdramaticarts on Instagram. Come out to GMHS to support our student cast and crew!

Similarly, the music department concluded a popular time of year in late February when it welcomed visitors to its mattress fundraiser and subsequent Coffeehouse event on Saturday, Feb. 25. The fundraiser spanned seven hours and encouraged members of the community to take advantage of a wide array of mattresses at rates as significant as 50 percent off, with all proceeds being devoted to the causes of both the GMHS Music Department and the Class of 2023. Coffeehouse began later in the evening, showcasing high school students who auditioned to perform music of their choice.

With regard to athletics, most of GMHS’ varsity teams completed their regular seasons by mid-February. The regular winter season witnessed a

broad spectrum of highs and lows, and witnessed relentless support from students as they regularly flocked to “The Den” to support the Bears through rivalries, senior nights, and more. At the time of publication, the many teams who have qualified for their respective conference and state tournaments are yet to have their fate decided and many of those competitions continue until mid-March. In exciting news, Granby Senior Tyler Kroninger set a school record for his event during the Boys’ Indoor Track Class S State Championship at the Floyd Little Athletic Center in New Haven on Thursday, Feb. 9. Following the conclusion of the winter campaign, the spring athletics season is expected to commence in late March and features a range of sports including baseball, lacrosse, outdoor track, softball, golf, ultimate frisbee and tennis. The boys tennis team enters this season having won back-to-back state championships.

In an initiative to combat hunger, National Honor Society will be hosting its annual Empty Bowls event on March 24 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the newly-constructed cafeteria at GMHS. The event is student-run and organized, featuring handmade bowls in addition to unlimited soup and bread donated by local restaurants. All proceeds generated will benefit local food banks, and several hundred attendees are expected.

Lastly, on Saturday, March 25, GMHS will be holding its second dance of the school year with a glow dance theme. Since the onset of the pandemic, accommodating two dances in one year had been challenging, and the event on March 25 demonstrates the continued progress being made within the Granby school community to provide safe and fun activities for students.

Following a full winter season, it is with high hopes that GMHS enters a busy period of student activity and achievement.

Maple Corner Farm

Granby Artists Association accepting 2023 scholarship application

Graduating high school seniors who are permanent residents of Granby are cordially invited to apply for the Granby Artist Association 2023 Annual Scholarship. The scholarship is a cash award of $500 given to a student of higher artistic skill to be utilized toward upcoming college expenses. Seniors expecting to graduate at the conclusion of the current school year with acceptance to a college-degree program or further educational programming are eligible to apply, including students from Granby Memorial High School, private schools, and home-schooled students. Family members of the Granby Artists Associa-

tion exhibiting artist members are not eligible for awards given by the Granby Artists Association.

To apply, eligible students should access scholarship details on the Granby Artists Association’s website: granbyartists.org. Applications must be submitted by May 14, 2023 for consideration. Submissions are juried by the Granby Artist Association exhibiting artist members. The scholarship award is based upon the quality of work represented in the student’s portfolio; and how experiences and achievements have solidified the student’s desire to continue to pursue art in the future.

CSAG has a long history of giving

The Community Scholarship Association of Granby (CSAG) has been awarding scholarships to deserving graduating high school students since 1958. Along with the David A. Schupp, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, established in 1992, CSAG has awarded over $650,000 in scholarships to nearly 400 college bound Granby Memorial seniors making a significant impact on their young lives.

CSAG has performed this service while managing contributions of all kinds, but particularly funds from a Holcomb Family Endowment and annual fundraising in conjunction with The Granby Road Race.

Applicants must be Granby residents who are soon-to-be high school graduates accepted at an institution of higher learning approved by the selection committee. The David A. Schupp, Jr. Memorial Scholarship will be specifically awarded to a student pursuing

a STEM major. Additional scholarships take into consideration given need, initiative, character, responsibility and higher than average involvement in our local Granby community.

With the always rising costs of a college education, CSAG asks former scholarship recipients, as well as the Granby community, to please consider making tax-deductible contributions to CSAG so that the organization can award more scholarships and provide more substantial awards. Contributions should be made out to CSAG and mailed to Steve Schock, Treasurer, 19 Moosehorn Road, West Granby, CT 06090.

Scholarship applications are available online through Naviance, at the College and Career Center or through your guidance counselor. Completed applications should be submitted to Mrs. Caruso in the GMHS counseling office on or before May 1.

Exercise Your Brain at UHart Lifelong Learning Program.

Come for a single lecture or two-four session mini-course on climate change, Latin American music, artificial intelligence, the history of beer, Ukraine, or many other fascinating topics. Stimulating professors, lively discussions, a community of engaged learners, and

the vibrancy of being on a college campus again make Presidents’ College, UHart’s Lifelong Learning Program, an exceptional experience. Go to hartford. edu/pc or call 860.769.4495 to get on the mailing list.

Special Programs

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, Wednesday, March 15, 2023, 1–2 p.m. Entertainment by Tom Callinan, Connecticut’s First Official State Troubadour. Armed with an array of musical instruments, Tom has been a full-time performer for 45 years. Songs of Land & Sea and songs of past and present! Light refreshments will be served. Cost: $5.

Trips

International Travel: Are you dreaming of a fantastic vacation? Granby Senior Center partners with Collette Tours, a renowned travel tour company that has been taking groups to amazing destinations for decades. Our current adventures are planned for Italy in October 2023 and Japan in April 2024. Call 860-8445352 for details.

Shopping: Christmas Tree Shops/ Trader

Joe’s/ Super Walmart- Manchester: Monday, March 6, 2023 10-2:30 pm Cost: $5.

Dine and Drive: Granby Social Cafe

Friday, March 17, 2023 9:30-11:30am

Let’s check out the “new” spot in town for brunch! Cost: $2.00

Vintage Radio and Communications

Museum of Connecticut: Friday, March 24, 2023 10-2:30 p.m. The museum is an allvolunteer run museum located in Windsor, Connecticut, offering a fascinating and educational look back in time (and technology). Take a walk through history from Morse Code transmitters to radio & television to personal computers, and everything in between. Lunch on your own afterwards at the Union Street Tavern Cost: $10.

Ongoing Programs

CRT Hot Lunch: Every Tuesday and Thursday, 12-1 p.m. Let someone else do the cooking. Community Café offers a healthy, lowcost lunch for seniors 60+ and the opportunity to join with others. Monthly menus are available at the Senior Center. All participants are required to complete a one-time informational survey. A donation of $3 per meal is suggested to help cover costs, however no one is denied a meal if

unable to pay. Reservations are accepted until noon on Friday for the following week by calling 860-844-5350.

Ask the Attorney: Wednesday, Mar. 1, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. By appointment at the Granby Senior Center. Specializing in Elder Law. Please call to set up an appointment for a free half-hour consultation.

Cribbage: Every Friday, 1-3:30 p.m. and Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Join this lively group. Experienced players will assist with refreshing your game play. Free.

Set Back: Every Tuesday, 1-3:30 p.m. Free.

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

Stamping: Thursday, Mar. 16, 9:30-11 a.m. Make beautiful cards for all occasions. All materials provided. Cost: $5 per class.

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

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

Camera Club: Monday, Mar. 6 at 7 p.m. The club is for photography enthusiasts. Each month a different topic of interest is discussed. Annual membership is $10.

Women’s Breakfast: Wednesday, Mar. 1 at 8:30 a.m. Intonations singing group from

GRANBY CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, UCC MARCH EVENTS

Granby Food Bank Collection — Saturday, March 4, 9:30-11 am, NC

Foodshare — Tuesdays, March 7 & 21, 1:30-2 pm, SC

SBMS Richard Wood in Concert—Saturday, March 25, 7:30 pm, SC (Doors open @7)

Waste Not Want Not Community Meal—Wednesdays, 3-5 pm, SC

Open Cupboard Pantry—Fridays, 3-4 pm, NC

AA Meetings—Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7 pm, Sundays 7:30 pm, SC

Al Anon—Sundays, 7:30 pm, SC

Yoga—Tuesdays at 5:15 pm, SC & Thursdays at 8:45 am, NC

(NC) North Campus/219 North Granby Rd.

(SC) South Campus/242 Salmon Brook St.

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

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

Farmington will perform Cost $5.

Men’s Breakfast: Friday, Mar. 10 at 8:30 a.m. Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen with Sandy Flagg. Cost: $5.

Health and Wellness

Dr. Spencer Simmons-Strength Assessments: Wednesday, Mar. 22, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 30-minute appointments made in advance only. If you have difficulty walking long distances, trouble getting up from a chair, or maybe get tired out easily, this is an excellent opportunity to have your upper and lower body strength assessed. Free.

Hearing Screenings: Tuesday, Mar. 14, 9-11 a.m. Hearing Care Centers will be onsite conducting hearing screenings that include hearing aid cleaning and evaluation. Free.

Blood Pressure/Blood Sugar Clinic: Every Thursday from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. No appointment needed. Courtesy of the Farmington Valley Visiting Nurses Association. Held in the Senior Center Community Room.

Healthy Minds: By appointment only. Situations such as the death of a loved one, failing health or strained family relationships can be dauting to face alone. Working with our Marriage and Family Therapist, may help you move forward with the better part of life. To schedule a confidential appointment, call 860844-5350.

Footcare with Sarah: Wednesday, Mar. 8, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Sarah, from Mobile Manicures will assess feet and lower extremities, trim, file and clean nails. By appointment only. Cost $35 not covered by insurance.

Exercise Programs

Every Body’s Exercise with Mary Root: Thursdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Mar. 2-Apr. 27, Mary Root will pilot this new class at the Center, suitable for anyone and everyone. This class will include strength and weights, some cardio, balance and flexibility. All movements can be modified for chair or standing. Root will personalize your routine based off current flexibility, strength, etc.

Gentle Movement for Strength and Balance: Mondays, Feb 6–March 27, no Feb. 20. 11:15 a.m. Instructor, Paula Pirog. This class will gently increase your strength, help your ability to balance, and provide stretching to maintain and increase mobility. Cost per session: $42 residents; $49 non-residents.

Chair Yoga: Tuesdays, Feb. 7–March 28, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Enhanced breathing, seated and standing classic Yoga poses, plus balance training and core strengthening. Guided meditation finishes the class in a calm and relaxing manner. Cost per session: $48 residents; $56 non-residents.

Yoga: Tuesdays, Feb. 7–March 28, 4-5 p.m. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Strength building sequences, standing and on the mat. Includes balance and Pilates floor work. Cost per session: $48 residents; $56 non-residents.

Line Dancing with Jim: Wednesdays, Mar. 1–Apr. 26, no class Feb. 8, 1:30- 2:30 p.m. Instructor Jim Gregory has been teaching dance full-time for forty years. His expertise will have you learning the steps in no time and having a blast too! This class is for beginners to advanced dancers. Cost per session: $48 residents; $56 non-resident.

Health District releases community health assessment

By Jennifer Kertanis, Director, Farmington Valley Health District

The Farmington Valley Health District (FVHD) is the local health department that serves the town of Granby. It has recently released a community health assessment which uses data from more than 20 different sources to describe the health status of the population of Farmington Valley.

CTVV Interviews

Eversource Energy CEO

Susan Regan recently had Joe Nolan, Chairman, President and CEO of Eversource, the largest supplier of energy to Connecticut, as her guest on CT Valley Views.

The assessment examines topics such as health behaviors, health outcomes, youth health and social determinants of health. An advisory group of subject matter experts in a variety of areas helped guide the work. The health assessment will be used to develop a community health improvement plan that will outline strategies to improve health in the areas of greatest significance. The complete assessment is available at fvhd.org

Happiness

Happiness is found everywhere:

In the daffodils of spring

In the warmth of the sun upon our faces

In the return of the robins

While residents of the Farmington Valley on average enjoy overall better health compared to Connecticut as a whole, the health assessment identified a number of areas for improvement. Falls among older adults, low seasonal flu vaccine uptake, high household radon levels, high levels of overweight and obesity, and poor mental health and substance use were some of the most pressing issues the assessment identified. In addition, the report includes a wealth of information on a variety of topics, including educational attainment, income and poverty, employment, housing, transportation,

and access to care.

Community members are encouraged to review the findings and offer comments and suggestions through the feedback form linked on fvhd.org. Over the next few months, the health district will be sharing the data and developing working groups in each of the priority areas. Individuals and organizations with an interest or expertise in priority areas are encouraged to participate in the working groups and can either sign up at the fvhd.org website or by calling the health district at 860-352-2333.

HOSPICE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

McLean Hospice

Joseph Nolan.

Submitted photo

The key concern by Eversource’s customers is the announcement of a 2023 50 percent supply side increase realizing an average of an additional $80 to homeowners’ monthly bills. Nolan explains the source impacting the higher prices, how consumers can shop for competitive supply pricing and options on the energy company’s website to obtain assistance in responsibly and affordably managing their family’s budget: www.eversource.com/billhelp

Additionally, Connecticut consumers can shop supplier-side vendor rates at www.energizect.com

To see this segment, all other CTVV programs and reach Susan Regan with questions or commentary, visit ctvalleyviews.com

Stop & Shop’s sweet treats

Stop and Shop made sure that The Waste Not Want Not community dinner attendees had sweets for Valentine’s Day. Thanks to the wonderful generosity of Stop & Shop customers, over 300 double-pack chocolate covered strawberries were donated.

In a nature walk with a child, and in observing his or her wonder

In watching a sunrise or sunset

In looking at the stars

In planting a garden

In the love of family and friends

In sharing our Blessings

In a delicious meal

In breathing fresh, clean air

In walking our dog

In the purr of our cats

In the kindness of others

In music that speaks to our souls

In vacation times at the mountains, the seashore, the lake, or at a train ride in Essex

Look for these experiences in your own life, and you will know life’s truest riches.

—Bernadette R. Gentry, February 2023

This spring, McLean Hospice will hold a training course for people interested in becoming hospice volunteers. The only requirement for this meaningful and rewarding volunteer position is a compassionate heart and a belief in the hospice philosophy of providing the best possible comfort and care to people facing a life-limiting illness. McLean Hospice will provide comprehensive training that will ensure you are competent and confident in your volunteer role.

Hospice uses a team approach with a professional staff of RNs, social workers, and spiritual counselors to treat the body, mind, and spirit of a hospice patient. Volunteers supplement the professional team with visits that can include providing companionship, socializing, listening, reading, playing music, giving a wheelchair ride, holding hands, and simply being there with a quiet presence. In addition to these important social support volunteers, McLean is also seeking volunteers for specialized services such as Reiki, music therapy, and pet therapy.

Hospice volunteers visit patients wherever they live – in their own home, an assisted living community, or a nursing home. McLean Hospice serves the towns of the Farmington Valley as well as Bloomfield, Windsor, and West Hartford. Assignments usually are one hour once a week for the time the patient is with us.

The training is a combination of home study and live classes held at McLean in Simsbury, for a total of 20 hours of education. Classes will be held 9:30 a.m. – noon on March 28, April 20, April 25, April 27, May 2, and May 4. To learn more about enhancing the life of a hospice

patient and the McLean training course, please contact Chris Novak at 860-658-3907 or Chris. Novak@McLeanCare.org. You may also view the McLean website at /Health Services/Hospice/.

Farmington ValleyVisiting Nurse Association

Are you a compassionate person who loves to provide companionship, provide a listening ear, and help someone smile? Consider being a Hospice Volunteer with the Farmington Valley Visiting Nurse Association.

Hospice volunteers visit people wherever they live in their private home, an assisted living, or a skilled nursing home. Volunteers are there to provide companionship by visiting, holding a hand, reading, and taking people outside. Volunteers can play piano, do artwork, read books, or provide music, write poetry; simply be there with the person and help brighten their day.

The benefits of helping others are tremendous. Many of our volunteers say they are enriched and encouraged by their new friendships.

Volunteers are trained and undergo a screening process to ensure they are the right fit. If you work, there are opportunities available for volunteers to visit patients after hours. There is always a need for a comforting presence and companionship. Also, if you have a pet trained and certified in Pet Therapy, they are an excellent addition to our hospice volunteer program and loved by the patients.

Please contact Pam Gordon at 860-651-3539 or pgordon@farmingtonvalleyvna.org for more information.

From l.: Brittany Hallenback, Kim Lauria, Rosia Kennedy, Lori Madeley and Barbara Brown. Photo by Sheila White

Granby Horse Council promotes multi-use trails

Triggers for high blood sugar and prediabetes

By Sharon Gallerani

Many of us are hearing that our blood sugar levels are in the pre-diabetes level. Often, we shrug it off, but we should not. Prediabetes is a serious health condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough yet to be diagnosed as Type 2 diabetes.

By Joan Davis

In spring, summer, winter and fall Granby’s trails offer outdoor adventures galore. This mild winter has been a gift to hikers and horseback riders. It may seem to be all grey, but look closer. With the leaves off most of the trees, you can see burls, snags, abandoned nests and even old carvings of initials and dates. The hawk and woodpecker are not only heard, but seen. Look for deer rubbings on large trees and saplings. Observe the rock formations and views from high points. Touch the cold, crystal clear water of Granby’s streams.

Enjoying the trails from the back of a quiet, confident horse is a glorious experience. When possible, riders will back their horses off the trail to let walkers or bicyclists pass. However, when there isn’t enough room, trail users should honor the safe and universally accepted proto-

col and give the horse the right of way. Be friendly and speak to each other. This interaction helps horses and dogs keep calm so everyone can share the trails.

If you are a horseback rider yearning to get out on the trails, the Granby Horse Council can help you. On June 10, 2023, the council will conduct a “Building Confidence for Trail Riding” clinic. The Granby Horse Council has been creating, maintaining and riding Granby’s trail system since the early eighties. Their very experienced members will guide riders through a series of experiences in the safety of a fenced arena. When riders are ready, they can go out with one or two mounted guides.

Get more information about the Council at www.granbyhorsecouncilct.com and on Facebook.

To learn more about the clinic and to sign up, contact Joan Davis at silverjdavis@cox.net

Approximately 96 million American adults—more than 1 in 3—have prediabetes. Of those with prediabetes, more than 80 percent don’t know they have it. Prediabetes puts you at increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. The good thing is if caught at the pre-diabetes level, you have the opportunity to stop it in its tracks.

Insulin is a hormone made by your pancreas that acts like a key to let blood sugar into cells for use as energy. If you have prediabetes, the cells in your body don’t respond normally to insulin. Your pancreas makes more insulin to try to get cells to respond. Eventually your pancreas can’t keep up, and your blood sugar rises, setting the stage for prediabetes— and Type 2 diabetes down the road.

You can have prediabetes for years but have no clear symptoms, so it often goes undetected until serious health problems such as Type 2 diabetes show up. It’s important to talk to your doctor about getting your blood sugar tested if you have any of the risk factors for prediabetes:

Being overweight

Being 45 years or older

Having a parent, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes

Being less physically active fewer than three times a week

Ever having gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) or giving birth to a baby who weighed more than nine pounds

Having polycystic ovary syndrome.

Race and ethnicity are also factors: African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, American Indians, Pacific Islanders, and some Asian Americans are at higher risk.

If you have prediabetes, losing a small amount of weight if you’re overweight and getting regular physical activity can lower your risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. A small amount of weight loss means around 5 percent to 7 percent of your body weight, just 10 to 14 pounds for a 200-pound person. Regular physical activity means getting at least 150 minutes a week of brisk walking or a similar activity. That’s just 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

Triggers of High Blood Sugar

Besides diet and the risk factors above, there are other more subtle factors that can contribute to high blood sugar. These include unresolved stress and anxiety, dehydration, lack of sleep or poor sleep, and especially untreated sleep apnea. Some other triggers are more subtle such as a sunburn, some artificial sweeteners, skipping breakfast, gum disease, and even some nose sprays. Some people find they are extra-sensitive to coffee, even unsweetened. Medications are also known to be triggers of elevated sugar.

Some medications that may raise blood sugar are corticosteroids for pain, asthma and allergies, beta blockers for high blood pressure, statins for lowering cholesterol, some antibiotics such as fluoroquinolones, antipsychotics, and decongestants.

Never stop any medication on your own without medical consultation. But if you are struggling with blood sugar issues and take one of these medications, talk to your health care provider about other options. If you take other medications and wonder if they may be affecting your blood sugar, ask your pharmacist or health care provider.

Kayla Davis on Cherokee sipping from the West Branch of the Salmon Brook

Photos by Joan Davis

FULL CIRCLE: From paper to perfect-bound

By Sierra M. Shepard

Faith Tyldsley was born with printers’ ink in her blood. Her roots in Millbrook, N.Y., run deep, dating back to the immigration of her grandfather, William Tyldsley, from Lancashire, England. In 1906, William purchased the Millbrook Printing Company, and thus began the 54-year legacy of a family-run, small-town newspaper. Though the printing business, and with it, The Millbrook Round Table, were sold by Faith’s mother, widowed in 1961, her daughter has chosen to carry on the family story in her new book. Edna in Millbrook is a beautiful tribute to the lady herself, a time bygone, and the town that made it all possible. Faith’s tale references several familiar faces and places through the eyes of one of Millbrook’s most notable families: and her love for her hometown is projected on every page.

Faith’s writerly tendencies stem from both sides of the Tyldsley family: in addition to her heritage with the Round Table, a business her father took over from his father in 1934, her mother Edna was a teacher, the valedictorian of her New Paltz class in 1933. Edna loved poetry and often used it as a tool over the seventeen years she taught firstgraders. In addition to an impressive catalog of memorized verse, she also wrote her own compositions, which were much-beloved and oft-requested by the children.

Denny Tyldsley (1940) and Faith (1945) spent their early days at Ridge Acres, built in 1950 on the property of an abandoned farm, and so named for its placement on Chestnut Ridge. Many picnics and glamorous parties were held on the grounds of the contemporary colonial, and Nor’Eastern blizzards were ushered in with a cozy reading of John Greenleaf Whittier’s Snow Bound Ridge Acres was Edna’s most treasured possession, her “happy place”. In April of 2000, at the age of 87 she writes: “I doubt that anyone enjoys her home as

much as I enjoy mine. I get so much pleasure just looking out different windows at the landscape emerging from its winter garb.” In fact, she turned down a small parade of suitors following her husband John’s unexpected death in 1960, a move that Faith attributes to a desire to remain in the home that brought such joy. A journal entry penned by Edna in 2002 suggests another factor that may have influenced her decision:

“John would have been 96 today. How I have managed all these years (42 in March) without him I do not know.”

Edna Mae Feely and John Ogden Tyldsley met in 1935 at Grace Episcopal Church, where they were both members of the choir. At the time, Edna was boarding at the Whetherel House, which hosted a flock of young teachers in the center of the village and was located directly across from The Millbrook Press. Copies of Ms. Feely’s teaching contracts, reproduced in full detail in Faith’s book, state in no uncertain terms that “Subsequent marriage makes this contract void.” John was quite insistent, however, proclaiming in a letter dated February 1937: “I have been thinking of a million ways for you to sever your contract and I hope that when I get back we can work some plan out as I want you to marry me in June. Please try and think up some ways of making things right.” With poise and sophistication, it was done, and the two were wed on June 19, 1937.

John Tyldsley recognized that his wife’s education surpassed his own, immediately offering her the mantle of proofreader-in-chief. She reflects: “At that time, we lived in the house next to the Millbrook Press. The business was not as busy then and we managed with one office telephone that had an exten-

E

sion in the house. A buzzer operated from the office informed me if a call was for me. When I had finished a batch of proofs, I would buzz for John or the secretary to come and pick them up.”

This depiction is just the beginning of a fascinating portrait immortalizing the process of printing by hand.

In producing her own book with the help of a self-publishing company, Faith looks back with affectionate irony on the similarities. Four rounds of revisions, in which “I would receive corrections only to discover that a new error had mysteriously popped up in the revised manuscript, proofreading their proofreading…” Little did they know that Faith now writes and proofreads for The Granby Drummer. In her younger years, and home on breaks from St. Mary’s School in Peekskill, Faith grew up in the office of The Millbrook Round Table. “We were just kind of a newspaper family,” she says.

Many qualities of Edna are echoed in her daughter, who received her bachelor’s from Wells College, then a master’s and doctoral degree in school psychology and guidance counseling. Faith’s love of history is evident in the carefully ascribed details of her book, including explorations into the influences of the times on Millbrook and its people, as well as a series of maps Faith had commissioned herself.

As one of the town’s most involved elders, Edna was a member of and delivered presentations to the Town of Washington/Village of Millbrook Historical Society. She also headed up the Grace Episcopal Church Archives Committee, formed out of determination that the church’s history be carefully cataloged and preserved. In 1958, Mrs. Tyldsley and Mrs. Blanche Boomer made history as two of the first women to be elected to an Episcopal Vestry in New York State. Today, Faith is a member of both the Village of Millbrook and Salmon Brook Historical Societies.

Edna’s passion for the care of the church historical documents extended,

Edna in Millbrook

Edna in Millbrook Edna in Millbrook

perhaps unknowingly, to other remnants of the era to which she was privy. Edna in Millbrook contains nearly 100 color and black-and-white photographs, handwritten letters, records, excerpts, newspaper clippings, recipes, and my personal favorite: proposals for catering, furniture, wedding photography, dresses and flowers sent to recently announced brides-to-be in 1937.

The Millbrook Round Table may be only a memory, but The Granby Drummer forges ahead — through the commitment of people like the Tyldsley family and all others devoted to small-town stories and the power of the written word. Edna in Millbrook is a light for all those ordinary people living ordinary lives, adding a little sunshine to the world, being kinder than they have to be, inspiring others, and leaving behind a legacy that is more than the sum of its parts.

Sierra Shepard is the publisher of The Hudson Connection.

Edna in Millbrook is available from the author at ftsnouthouse.com

Faith Tyldsley

The Millbrook Press building in Millbrook, N.Y. Home to the Millbrook Round Table

Photo by John O. Tyldsley, ca. 1950s

Edna in Millbrook by Faith Tyldsley, 2022.

Browse & Borrow

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

Adults

The Seed Library: Tuesday – Thursday in March 3 – 7 p.m. at the F. H. Cossitt Library Branch. We are fully restocked for the 2023 growing season! Find fruit, vegetable, herb and flower seeds from noted growers including, Burpee, High Mowing, Hudson Valley Seed Company, John Scheepers and True Leaf Market. Be sure to check out library resources to help plan and grow your garden when you stop by to pick up your seeds. The Seed Library is free and available to the public during regular winter hours in March.

Stories of a Fiddler: Sunday, March 5, 2 – 3 p.m. at the Main Branch. Sarah the Fiddler makes an appearance in Granby Public Library’s Music in the Stacks program series. Enjoy toe-tapping music and hear stories featuring Sarah’s passion for all-things fiddle! The performance is free and there are no tickets, but registration is required to ensure you have a seat. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Crafters Café, Cosmos Blossoms: Thursday, March 9, 6 – 7:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. Learn to make a crepe paper cosmos, a classic summer annual, with Granby artist Sue Canavan. Participants will make one flower in the 90-minute workshop for adults, and be provided with written instructions and materials to make another flower at home. There is no fee and all materials are provided. Registration required. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Movie Matinee, Pat Paulsen for President: Sunday, March 12, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. Laugh out loud with this special episode from the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour. Adults are invited to enjoy a showing of the 1968 TV comedy, Pat Paulsen for President. Space is limited; register to save a seat and a box of Junior Mints(!) Part of our Classic Movie and TV Magic series.

Lessons In Chemistry—The Fascinating World of Art Restoration: Sunday, March 12, 2 – 3 p.m. at the Main Branch. From Rembrandt to Shattuck, learn how David Kimball, Stagecoach Gallery, preserves an art legacy while doing no harm. Kimball has as over 40 years of art conservation experience with museums and historical societies throughout New England. He is a noted authority on fine art conservation and has been featured in multiple television programs and in various publications. Sponsored by Granby Public Libraries and Granby Artist Association.

Conservation Conversation — Planting A Veggie Garden: Monday, March 13, 6 – 7 p.m. at the Main Branch. Learn the importance of soil testing, how and where to establish a garden, and plant selection. Veteran gardeners are invited to share their knowledge with beginners in this continuing series of

GRANBY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM

granby-ct.gov/library • 860-844-5275

GranbyLibrary@granby-ct.gov

Winter Library Hours, Main Branch

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

Tuesday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Sunday: 1 – 4 p.m.

Winter Library Hours, Cossitt Branch

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 3 – 7 p.m.

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

Conservation Conversations sponsored by Granby Public Library and Granby Conservation Commission. Registration is recommended; drop-ins are welcome when space allows.

A History of Granby and The First Amendment: Thursday, March 16, 2 – 3:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. Journey back to the 1700s and learn how “The Great Awakening” impacted Granby and other Connecticut River Valley towns during the United States Constitution ratification discourse. Find out about the freedom of religion “deal” made with Baptist voters, and how that affected the citizens of Granby. Hint: See the Baptist Cemetery on North Granby Road. Register to reserve a seat.

Passion For Papercraft —Danish

Woven Hearts: Monday, March 20, 1 – 2 p.m. at the Main Branch. Celebrate Spring and learn to make a traditional Julehjerter, a Danish woven paper heart. Gail Altschwager leads the workshop for adults. There is no fee and all materials are provided. Space is limited; register to attend. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

The History of TV Comedy —From Milton Berle to David Letterman: Tuesday, March 21, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., virtual program. Survey the extraordinary landscape of American TV comedy in the early years - from the vaudeville shtick of Milton Berle and the slapstick artistry of Lucille Ball to the social satire of Saturday Night Live and the absurdities of David Letterman. Presenter Brian Rose returns for another virtual program in the History of TV and Film program series.

Part of our Classic Movie and TV Magic series. Register to receive the Zoom program link. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Star Gaze: Wednesday, March 22, 7:30 –9 p.m. In-Person, Holcomb Farm North Barn and West Lawn. Jump start your star gazing interest with this hands-on opportunity! The presentation for adults and teens begins indoors with a brief overview of astronomical terms, images of various sights in the current night sky, and discussion of related celestial topics. Then the group heads outdoors for star gazing under the guidance of astronomers Scott Tracy and Bill DeNio. View the night sky through two powerful telescopes and be awed by what you see. Additional details available upon registration.

Kinetic Ukes - Welcome Spring! Sunday, March 26, 2 – 3 p.m. at the Main Branch.

Drumrolls

Don’t miss this Music in the Stacks performance by a local and much-loved ukulele ensemble. Led by music director Jim Lenn, the Kinetic Ukes deliver a good-times vibe with timeless songs of the 50s, 60s, and 70s, along with a few contemporary tunes sprinkled in here and there. Wear your floral shirt, sing along, and welcome spring! The performance is free and there are no tickets, but registration is a must. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Crafters Café, Be Bold: Wednesday, March 29, 6 – 8 p.m. at the Main Branch. Foster your creative side in this mini canvas/easel paint workshop. Instructor Katherine Tolve guides adults and teens to create one-of-a- kind miniature 4”x 4” paintings using acrylic paints, sharpies, and paint markers. We’ll channel inspiration from famous artist Romero Britto, known for his vibrant colors and bold patterns, while exploring the subject of flowers, still life, and the vessel. Participants are encouraged to display their finished work in the library display case for the month of April. There is no fee and all materials are provided. Space is limited; register soon. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Book Clubs

Something About the Author: Tuesday, March 6, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. The book club will discuss author Isabel Allende. Allende was born on August 2, 1942 in Lima, Peru. When Allende’s father deserted their family, they went to live with their grandfather in Chile. Observing that her mother had no money of her own and no say in the decisions made, Allende was determined to work and earn her own living. She began her career as a journalist working in television and writing for magazines. In 1981, Allende began writing to her grandfather, who was dying in Chile. This letter became the basis for her first novel, The House of the Spirits, which became a worldwide bestseller. Leading the discussion is John Rusnock. Registration is requested.

Sci-Fi: Wednesday, March 29, 6 – 7 p.m. at the Main Branch. The book club will read and discuss Early Riser, a dystopic novel written by Jasper Fforde published in 2019. The story is set in an alternate Wales where most of its population hibernates during the unbearable winters. Charlie Worthing is awake for his very first winter helping those that are hibernating. But what is really going on as people sleep every winter? How will Charlie deal with the threats of the Nightwalkers, the Wintervolk and the Englishmen? You’ll need to read the book to find out. Leading the discussion is Doug Soucier. Registration is requested.

Teens and Tweens

Women’s Breakfast

Area residents named to dean’s list for the Fall 2022 semester at Quinnipiac University: Benjamin Rickevicius, Erin Russell, Sarah Springer, Erin Panella-Malley and Steven Peterson Madelyn Wilson earned a place on Furman University’s fall 2022 dean’s list.

Matthew Liguori was named to the fall 2022 dean’s list at Saint Louis University.

Ralph Rossi was named to fall 2022 dean’s list at Stonehill College.

Teen Mondays—Break-In Bags: Monday, March 6, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. at the Main Branch.

Grades: 6-12. Break-in bags are similar in concept to escape rooms, but instead of breaking out, you’re trying to break in! Complete the puzzles to unlock the code to your bag and discover the goodies inside. Light refreshments will be provided. Registration required. Sponsored by Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Children and Families

Story Times and More

Baby Rhyme Time: Tuesdays, March 7, 14, 21 and 28, 10:30 – 11 a.m. at the Main Branch.

Children up to 2 years and their caregivers are invited to an interactive lap-sit program featuring a story, nursery rhymes, songs, and baby sign language. Registration requested.

Mother Goose on The Loose: Wednesdays, March 8, 15, 22 and 29, 10:30 – 11 a.m. at the Main Branch. Children 18 months to 4 years. Preschool children and their caregivers are invited to join us for an interactive program featuring nursery rhymes, stories and music activities that promote language development, visual literacy, social and emotional skills. Registration requested.

New! Nightfall Stories and Stretch: Thursdays, March 2, 9, 16 and 23, 6 – 6:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. Children age 4 – 7 are invited to join us for an independent mindfulness program featuring stories, stretches, and an interactive activity. Registration required.

School Age Programs

Thursday Makers @ Cossitt: Thursday, March 2 and 16, 4:15 – 5 p.m. at the Cossitt Branch. Children in grades K-2 participate in a variety of fun crafts and engaging hands-on activities. Registration required. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Libraries.

Take and Make @ Cossitt: Tuesdays, 3-7 p.m. at the Cossitt Branch. Stop by Cossitt Branch to pick up an easy-to-complete craft project for children age 4 and up or stay and complete the craft after you pick out your books.

Take and Make Crafts: Saturday, March 11, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Main Branch. Stop by Children’s Room at the Main Branch to pick up an easy-to-complete craft project for children!

Building Club: Saturday, March 25, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. at the Main Branch. Grades 3–5. Do you have what it takes to be a Master Builder? Join us to put your creativity and skills to the test using different materials. Registration required.

Book Explorers: Saturday, March 4, 10:30 – 11 a.m. at the Main Branch for grades K- 3. Join us the first Saturday of the month as we explore a variety of books and topics and engage in fun, hands-on book themed activities. Registration required.

Believe In Your Shelf (Reading Club): Saturday, March 4, 12:30 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. at the Main Branch for Grades 4 – 6. It begins with a page…join our secret society of readers! Each month we will read and discuss different books and engage in a book-themed activity. Bring your lunch, we will supply dessert! Books will be available at the library a month in advance for readers. For March, we will be reading “Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library” by Chris Grabenstein. Registration required.

Granby Camera Club presented an outstanding program to the Women’s Breakfast Group that featured beautiful photos of what can be found on Granby’s Land Trust properties. Pictured is Ed Judge. Photo by Joan Ducharme

By Todd Vibert

At approximately 10:45 in the morning on Friday, October 9, 1936, William Shattuck looked over to the northwest hills of West Granby and saw the airship from Germany flying below the clouds, about 500 feet from the ground. Shattuck was watching the infamous Hindenburg fly over the farming community of West Granby. Shattuck, eldest son of the famed painter, Aaron Shatttuck, had read that the Hindenburg was making trips from Germany to the United States and, in the weeks around the 9th, the zeppelin was flying from New Jersey to Hartford and to Boston and back.

The Hindenburg was built in 1936 and carried passengers from Germany to the United States and South America. The Hindenburg was 804 feet long and 135 feet wide. At capacity, it carried 72 passengers and 61 crew members. Its fastest speed was 84 miles per hour, but it normally cruised at 78 miles per hour. The average trip from Germany to the United States took 58 hours. The cost of a ticket to fly the dirigible was 450 dollars.

In its short career, the Hindenburg made 63 trips before disaster struck in Manchester Township, New Jersey on May 6, 1937. It was docking on a moor and an electric spark occurred creating the hydrogen-filled airship to explode and burn to the ground. Thirty five people died and 62 people survived. This disaster stopped all passenger travel by airbus from Germany to the United States.

From 1936 to 1939, William Shattuck kept a diary that he used to document his life, including witnessing the Hindenburg. He lived on West Granby Road, diagonally across from Carl Green’s house, the brownstone house on the corner of West Granby Road and Barndoor Hills Road. In his diary, Shattuck record-

ed the temperature, weather conditions, and what he and his wife would be doing on that day. In some entries, he would record the events of others, a baby being born or someone who had died.

William Shattuck was not a young man when he started recording his events. He was 71 years old, having been born in 1864. He was an author and printer by trade. He had been married 38 years to Jessie Holcombe and they had five children, only three of whom lived through adulthood. The other two died before they turned eighteen, one from Bright’s disease and the other from appendicitis. William would live seven years after he stopped writing his diary. He died in 1946 and is buried in the Granby Cemetery.

The Salmon Brook Historical Society is very fortunate to have this primary source, giving us a glimpse of what happened in Granby eighty-seven years ago. Granby, a farming community for over two hundred years, and now a suburb of the city of Hartford, has quite a history, including this famous airship flying over our town, which made history for its disastrous crash.

Want to learn more about the Hindenburg or the Shattuck family? Come join the Salmon Brook Historical Society by calling 860-653-9713 or go online at www.salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com

When the Hindenburg flew over Granby

W illiam Shattuck and his diary. Photos courtesy of SBHS

Waypoints

By Mark Fiorentino

The New Guy

We were sitting around my kitchen table, working two laptops and two smart phones. Four of us tasked with finding a place for the annual ice fishing trip: me, Ken, Dave and the New Guy.

It was Ken’s idea that we work together to find a place, and then to present our findings to John and Bill, the other two veteran members of our group. It seemed like a good idea. A lot goes into picking a suitable location. We need a house big enough to accommodate six aging men for a long weekend. It can’t be too expensive or too far away. It needs to have direct access to a lake that has safe ice in late February. And finally, the lake needs to provide some reasonable hope that we can catch fish. Not because we actually expect to catch fish, but, and this is critical: because we need something to over analyze and complain about when we don’t.

This was a unique opportunity for the New Guy: to participate in the selection

of the location. I didn’t get such an opportunity years ago when I was the new guy. I was just told when we were leaving, what to bring, and how much I owed. Thankfully, I was smart enough to recognize what a gift it was to have no role in the planning.

Right away, I sensed trouble with the New Guy. As I knew from other settings, he is a thoughtful, respectful and optimistic guy. All fine qualities to be sure, but best kept to yourself in this group, especially when ice fishing is the subject. Oblivious to this, the New Guy actually seemed happy to be part of the planning. He looked dangerously eager to be helpful.

My instinct was right. The New Guy started with a classic rookie mistake: he offered an idea.

“How about Lake George? I did well up there last year.”

I bit my lip. This was a poor strategy; one the New Guy may never recover from. He would have been much wiser to keep quiet, and look for strategic opportunities to criticize someone else’s idea.

“Too far,” Dave, Ken and I said immediately, forcefully and in unison.

“No, the New Guy responded, “we can get there in a little over two and a half hours.”

Us three veterans recognized that two and a half hours was well within what we’ve done before, so, after some mumbling and grumbling, Dave begrudgingly asked: “Really? What kind of fishing?”

Unfortunately, the New Guy, not sensing the danger, took the bait. He typed some stuff on his smart phone and said:

“Here is a deep-water cove. We can fish for lake trout.”

“No way,” I complained. “I’m not sitting over ninety feet of water, waiting hopelessly for hours for a trout to swim by. We need something with more potential action.”

Dave and Ken, who as far as I know were fine with fishing for lake trout, nevertheless nodded with admiration and appreciation.

“Well, how about here?” the New Guy suggested. “Last year, we caught a bunch of perch right in this spot. It was non-stop action.”

“What!?” Dave was indignant. “I can catch all the perch I want within a mile of here. Why would I drive over two hours for perch? We need to go somewhere where we can catch smelt.”

“I’m not fishing for smelt,” I interjected before the New Guy could respond. “Not unless there are opportunities for other fish in the same area.”

And so it went for the next forty-five minutes or so. The New Guy would make reasonable suggestions, and we would shoot them down for mostly no good reason.

Eventually, he found a spot that seemed to have a little something for everyone. This time, it was Ken who offered the bait: “Ok, now we need to find a house with direct access to that part of the lake.”

Here was a perfect opportunity for the New Guy to share the pain. But he missed it, and began typing again on his smart phone.

“Here’s one,” he said on short order. “Nope, too expensive,” said Ken. Type, type, type. “How about this one?”

“Too small,” from Dave.

More typing. “This one?”

“Looks haunted,” from me.

After another thirty minutes or so, the New Guy began to show the slightest bit of frustration. Good, I thought. He’s finally getting it. I silently rooted for him

to just throw up his arms and recommend someone else give it a try.

But instead, he said: “Let’s play some cards. I think I know what we’re looking for. I’ll research this more on my own and get back to you guys with some alternatives.”

Two weeks later, the four of us were in Dave’s truck headed to fish on a local frozen pond. To my shock and awe, the New Guy said: “Look guys, I’ve been thinking about this and researching options. We should just go to the spot on Lake George that I fished last year. There’s a great hotel nearby, with nice rooms and great food. And we can get the guide I used. He’ll put us on the fish. We’ll have a great time.”

We were silent for a minute or two; all of the veterans, I think, carefully considering this. The New Guy waited for an answer with a look of anticipation and pride.

Finally, I said: “Look, I don’t think you’re going to be a good fit for this group.”

“What?” Why?”

I tried to explain in the plainest terms I could muster. “Why in heaven’s name would we want to go to a place where we can be both comfortable and productive? The whole point of the trip is to be miserable. We have to achieve enough misery and failure to have something to complain and argue about for the rest of the year.”

Dejected, the New Guy rode in silence the rest of the way to the pond. Luckily for him, it was a typical ice fishing outing for us: very cold, windy, with no fish. Given this gift, the New Guy finally caught on. Throughout the day, he strategically uttered criticism and complaints like: “there are no fish here,” and “who picked this place?”

Perhaps, I thought, there was hope for the New Guy after all.

In our group, misery and failure are two key components of any successful ice fishing trip. Submitted photo

This bench, honoring GLT Co-Founder Dave Russell, is located on the GLT’s KatanEnsor Preserve blue trail and provides a nice wintertime view. Dave has served as a volunteer on the Land Trust Board of Directors for a remarkable 50 years, providing incredibly wise counsel and responsibly overseeing the Land Trust’s finances for many, many years. He has served as the organization’s treasurer since 1998. He is, without a doubt, one of the Land Trust’s greatest assets. This bench is fittingly located on the KatanEnsor Preserve, which was bequeathed to the Land Trust by another GLT co-founder, Charlie Katan, and his wife, Joan. Charlie, Dave, and Bill Stewart founded the Land Trust in 1972.

We’ve come a long way in 50 years: 3,225 acres preserved, Land Trust Alliance National Accreditation and the Land Trust now has more than 400 annual member families. We cannot thank Dave Russell enough for all he has done and all he continues to do daily for the Granby Land Trust. One way you can recognize Dave’s dedicated service is to support the Granby Land Trust. Go to GranbyLandTrust.org to learn more about GLT membership. And please, the next time you see Dave around town, thank him for his dedication to our town and to preserving its open spaces.

Register for the Land Trust’s Spring bird walks

Join us for a Land Trust tradition, Mother’s Day Weekend Spring Migration Bird Walks led by expert birders John Weeks and Christine Chinni.

These walks will take place on the GLT’s Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve, 253 Loomis Street in North Granby and will start promptly at 7AM on May 13 and 14. You’ll see a variety of birds at this time of year, as they return from a winter away. You don’t have to be a birder to enjoy this quiet morning in the woods.

Space is limited and priority will go to

GLT members. We will offer two walks again this year to accommodate as many members as possible. Participants should bring binoculars. Children old enough to handle binoculars are welcome to participate. Please leave your dogs at home.

If we have rain/showers either morning, please check on the GLT Facebook page for an update; significant showers will cancel the walks.

To register, email John Weeks at aerie. john@cox.net or call 860.844.8965.

Photos by Don Shaw, Jr.

Need a break? Come sit a spell on the Glazier Cabin porch and enjoy the peace and quiet of the GLT’s Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve. Listen to the birds, feel the warmth of the sun, enjoy the view of Creamer Pond, and feel your blood pressure drop.

The Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve is located on Loomis Street in North Granby and is open dawn to dusk daily. Help us protect beautiful places like this by becoming a GLT member. Go to GranbyLandTrust.org to learn more.

by Rick Orluk

Drumrolls

Griffin Carey, an international business and finance major, has been named to the dean’s list at Marist College.

Bucknell University named the following students to its fall dean’s list: senior Gabe Gross, a markets, innovation and design major; senior Abigail Thrall, a biology major and freshman Ryan Ziskin, a cell biology/biochemistry major.

Ambrosia Williams, Tram Briggs and Samantha Yost were named to the fall dean’s list at Tunxis Community College.

Katherine (Kasia) Kaczkowski, a first-year architecture major at University of Hartford, was named to the fall 2022 president’s list.

Photo by Rick Orluk

Photo

Parks & Recreation

Director of Recreation and Leisure Services:

Kristine Vincent, CPRP

Recreation Supervisor: Daphne Shinder

Recreation Supervisor: Terri Ziemnicki

Special Events Coordinator: Jamie Savva

Telephone: 860-653-8947

Website: GranbyRec.com

Employment Opportunities

Granby Recreation is currently accepting applications for the following positions: Day Camp Counselors, Lifeguards, Arts and Crafts Director Salmon Brook Park Day Camp and Mission: Adventure

Registration for these popular summer programs is now open. Registrations for the Day Camp received by May 15, 2023 will be discounted $10/camper/week. Sessions sell out –make sure to secure your camper’s spot.

April Vacation

Granby Bears Basketball Clinic

Grades K-8

Led by the Granby Memorial Girls Varsity Basketball Coach Mike D’Angelo, join us for a few days during April School Vacation week for some fun in this Co-ED skills clinic which will be held outdoors at Salmon Brook Park OR inside the high school gym if inclement weather.

Coach D’Angelo, his coaching staff and players will work with the kids on ball handling, passing, shooting and incorporate skills games. It is a great way to spend time with friends during spring break. Each participant should bring their own basketball and water bottle.

Preschool Programs

Granby Nature Preschool; a farm and nature preschool for 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds based at Holcomb Farm. We are a 5-day program for morning, afternoon or full day, except Fridays that are half day, with visits or visitors to/from local farms and nature trails. We embrace outdoor living and learning, and plan to be outside for some part of every day except in extreme weather. Indoors in our space at The Barn at Holcomb we will enhance our learning through community living, relationship building, caring for one another and our plants, and with art, movement, music and storytelling activities. GNP offers rolling enrollment for new students including children who turn 3 after school begins. New students start at the first of every month. We pro-rate on a monthly basis. GNP follows the Granby Public School calendar. For questions, please contact Director Amanda Hochschartner, M.Ed at info@granbynaturepreschool.com and register at www.GranbyRec.com

Public Works

Changes to trash service: Did you know that Paine’s has an alert system that will notify of any changes to service. This includes reminders as to whether a holiday will affect service.

Sign up at painesinc.com

Household Hazardous Waste: Granby will once again work with local towns to host hazardous waste collections. The first collection will be Saturday, March 25 from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. at 10 Monteith Drive, Farmington, CT. For a list of accepted items, please check the Public Works page on the Town of Granby website granby-ct.gov The next collection will be June 10 in Simsbury.

Transfer Station: The Granby Transfer Station is open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please bring proof of residency. Fees may apply. Check out the Public Works page at the Town of Granby website (granby-ct.gov) or call 860-653-8960 for more information.

Snow removal: Please do your part to keep our roads safe by not moving snow into or across the road as you clean your property. This creates hazardous conditions for motorists and additional work for our plow crew.

Bridge work update: The Town of Granby is commencing projects to replace/rehabilitate Moosehorn Rd Bridge, Donahue Rd Bridge and Simsbury Rd Bridge. The bridge re

placement/rehabilitation projects are receiving Federal grant funds under the Federal Local Bridge Program administered by the Connecticut Department of Transportation.

Moosehorn plans have changed. We will not be closing the bridge to all traffic on a weekend but rather installing a temporary bridge on the upstream side to accommodate traffic flow. To date, there has been some minor work in the area with the greater part of the project beginning in April 2023. Completion is expected in November 2023.

Donahue Rd. Bridge has also started with preliminary work, and we are in the process of hiring a construction company to start work in April 2023. Please note that while the replacement/ rehabilitation is underway the road in the immediate area of the bridge will be closed to all traffic. Completion is expected to be in November 2023.

Simsbury Rd. Bridge located near Holcomb Hill Rd, is also scheduled for replacement/rehabilitation. As of this month, plans are being developed and rights of ways are being determined. Later this year a firm will be hired that will be responsible for inspections throughout the project. In 2024, a construction company will be hired, with work starting in April 2024 with completion expected in November 2024.

Ongoing registration throughout the year

Mornings: 9:15—11:45 a.m., Monday—Fridays

Afternoons: 12:45—3:15 p.m., Monday— Thursday

Full Day: 9:15 a.m. — 3:15 p.m., Monday— Thursday and 9:15— 11:45 a.m. on Friday

Lunch Bunch: 11:45 a.m. —12:45 p.m. optional add-on for half days. Monday — Friday.

After School Programs

Art-ventures for Kids at Kelly Lane and Wells Road Schools

Fall Field Hockey Clinic at Wells Road School

Fit and Fun Running Club at Wells Road School

Mad Science at Kelly Lane and Wells Road Schools

Monday PE Games w/Mr. Migneault at Wells Road School

Monday PE Games w/Mr. Norton at Kelly Lane School

Nutmeg Book Club w/Ms. Amara at Wells Road School

Reader’s Theater Club w/Ms. Amara at Wells Road School

Thursdays TEAM Sports w/Mr. Migneault at Wells Road School

Tuesdays Rock Wall Program w/Mr. Norton at Kelly Lane School

Soccer Shots at Salmon Brook Park

Adult Programs

Basketball: Held on Mondays and Thursdays, 7–9 p.m. in the Community Gym at Granby High School. Pick-up games for two hours for those ages 18 and up. Granby residents have two options to pay: $75 for the entire season, both nights (under $3 per night) $5 drop-in fee per night.

Adult Field Hockey: Granby’s tradition of great field hockey continues, not only at the middle and high school levels, but those who are now adults who still wish to keep the stick in their hands and play the game. We will have pick-up games every Wednesday, 6:30–8:15 p.m., in the gym at Wells Rd School. Bring your own stick, mouth guard and shin guards. We won’t be using goalies. This is open to residents as well as non-residents. Dust off your stick and reconnect with your former teammates and/or meet some other area players. Bring an old sock to put on your stick.

Paint Night with “Paint Craze”: Thursday, March 23, 6:30–8:30 p.m. at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. Grab a friend or two and join us for a fun evening of canvas paintingSpringtime Floral! Everything you need will be supplied including a 11” x 14” canvas. Feel free to bring food and beverages to enjoy while you paint. $40.

Getting started with a veggie garden

ditions can help you amend the soil for the best results.

By Kara Rodgers Marshall

I believe that gardening is a great first step towards conservation. My parents and grandparents gardened when I was young, and that, plus backyard bird feeders, helped me to learn to observe the natural world. I tell anyone interested in gardening to give it a try. Plant something, eat it, and fall in love with the land.

Getting started can be intimidating. Everyone is eager to sell you gadgets and tools, and there’s a lot of jargon to learn, but some basic concepts can ground you in the topic: soil, sunlight, and plant selection.

The composition of your garden dirt helps determine how well your plants do. Soil types describe their structure; a sandy loam will drain water quickly and easily, but clay holds water longer.

Knowing what type of soil you have helps you understand how to work it for best results. You may need to add amendments to improve the drainage of clay or add nutrients to sandy soil.

Granby is blessed with many areas of prime agricultural soil. My husband and I chose a new home with prime soil when we bought in town. It is a good idea to have your soil tested at portal. ct.gov/CAES/Soil-Office/Windsor/SoilTesting-Office-Instructions-Windsor This can tell you about the nutrient balance and the pH (acidity) of your soil. Understanding your baseline soil con-

Vegetables love sunlight, and most do best in full sunlight, meaning that the spot receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Some crops will thrive in partial sun—four to six hours per day. Walk around your yard and observe which areas get sun for how long. If your yard is mostly shady, Granby is blessed with a Community Garden where you have a plot of your own and work with other gardeners at planeteandme.com/ granby-community-garden/

Plant selection is my favorite topic and, in some ways, it’s the easiest: plant what you like to eat, the flowers you like to see or smell, or what will attract pollinators. It also must be something that will grow in Granby. With annual plants like vegetables pay attention to growing season length. Granby generally has a growing season from May 10 to Oct. 5, so any plant that takes more than 90 or 100 days to grow may not do well. To determine if a perennial such as a fruit tree will grow here, check the USDA plant hardiness zone at planthardiness. ars.usda.gov/ The USDA defines these zones based on minimum winter temperatures.

Most of Granby is in zone 6a, but higher elevations of West Granby and North Granby are in zone 5b. Shop in seed catalogs and nurseries geared toward New England and also the Holcomb Farm spring plant sales for plants that grow successfully in Granby.

Start small and build on your success. Experience the joy of produce you’ve grown yourself. The other night I made a casserole using summer squash I’d frozen last summer: a taste of summer deep in the winter.

Want to continue the conversation? Our March Conservation Conversation at the Granby Library will take place on March 13, from 6 to 7 p.m.

Submitted photo

Spring springs eternal

By Jenny Emery

The seed order is in and the Summer CSA shares are almost sold out (some still available at holcombfarm.org/join-our-csa). Plans for a full “Season of Celebrations” for the 30th anniversary of the Friends of Holcomb Farm, are well underway.

Here is an update on what is happening in our three main program areas. If you are not yet familiar with the farm, we hope you will visit us soon. Our trails are open to the public dawn to dusk daily; and our Farm Store is open Tuesday-Saturday, from June through October. If you already are familiar with the farm, we hope you’ll come more often—and bring a friend. And if you’re looking to get involved in a great organization, we hope you’ll consider joining the Friends of Holcomb Farm. Go to www.holcombfarm.org to learn more.

Land Stewardship

Our Stewardship committee and volunteers oversee all trail development and management of the 10+ miles of public trails at the Farm, which includes building and maintaining the Tree Trail arboretum. Plans for 2023 include a major invasive management initiative.

Volunteers have removed invasives at Holcomb Farm for many years and, since the establishment of the Holcomb Tree Trail in 2018, this effort has grown. Removing invasive plants from the trails and hedgerows has freed beauti-

In Memory Of…

Krzych, Susan J., 65, mother of Kristin and Tim Mattera, Nov. 2 Ofsuryk, Tricia Lynn, 45, wife of Richard James Ofsuryk, Jr., Dec. 31 Hogan, Morgan Ashley, 24, Jan. 7 Alamed, Marie J., 98, wife of the late William R. Alamed, Sr., Jan. 8 Colavecchio, Margaret Palmer, 84, wife of the late Louis J. Colavecchio, Jan. 17

Oates, James “Jim” Wilks Oates, 93,

ful, mature trees from a bittersweet infestation. The Friends’ next rehabilitation project will target a dense infestation of invasives around the small pond on the Tree Trail. This endeavor will be the Friends’ largest invasive removal project to date.

The man-made pond supplied water for Tudor and Laura Holcombs’ farm in the middle of the 20th century. Since then, invasive oriental

bittersweet, multiflora rose, autumn olive, and Japanese barberry have taken hold, crowding out native plants and growing up the native trees, causing them to slowly die. The infestation is so extensive and dense that specialized machinery will be needed to remove it; it is well beyond the capacity of volunteers using hand tools.

The proposed work has been reviewed by the Granby Inland Wetlands and Watercourses commission. The work will also be reviewed by a consulting herpetologist familiar with conditions in Connecticut. The Friends have hired TR Landworks of East Hartland to do the work. TR Landworks has mowed the 40 acres of fields at Holcomb Farm annually for many years. They specialize in this kind of invasive removal, working for clients like the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and MassWildlife. This work is funded by the generous contributions of Granby supporters of the Tree Trail.

The proposed work will take a full day, and will start when ground conditions permit, in late winter or early spring. Volunteers have been prepping the work area by removing old barbed wire fencing from the vicinity of the pond.

Tudor and Laura’s Tobacco Wagon is reborn, thanks to Granby Public Works and Parks and Rec. Thanks to Chris Lesiak and Rich Thoms (pictured) for delivering it. Photos by Eric Lukingbeal

husband of the late Nancy P. Oates, Jan. 17 Pike, Mary C., 94, wife of the late Roscoe Pike, Jan. 22 Custer, Dennis R., 80, husband of Joyce (Barbagallo) Custer, Feb. 2 DiPietro, Maureen (Casey), 86, companion of the late Bob Dell and wife of the late Charles DiPietro and the late Thomas Francis Garrity, Jr., Feb. 11

No work will be done in the pond itself which is about 55 feet wide and only a few feet deep when full. There are several mature native trees, including sycamore and black cherry, which will be saved. There are also some eastern red cedars, which will be saved if possible. Some are so covered with bittersweet that they will have to be cut down. Once the work is done, the Friends plan to plant the cleared area with trees and shrubs as part of the Tree Trail. This work will be done by volunteers, likely in the fall and in 2024. There are already several Tree Trail trees close to the pond (dawn redwoods, red mulberries, a red horse chestnut, and an American chestnut) and there is a bench with a fine view to the western hills.

Farming

As mentioned, Farmer Joe’s seed order is in, which is no small feat for a diversified produce, chemical-free farming operation. Will spring be early or late? Will it be hot or cold this summer, or wet or dry? Only time will tell. Thanks to the Granby Land Trust, we will be utilizing more fields they own, down along the East Branch of the Salmon Brook. With virtually the whole farm crew choosing to return (a testament to our farmer, Joe O’Grady), they will be spreading woodchips and prepping the soil in no time. We hope you all will enjoy driving by the farm on Simsbury Road, watching things come alive yet again. When you do, don’t miss the bright red antique tobacco wagon near the North Barn. Rescued from storage and refurbished this winter by Granby’s Public Works folks, the wagon, which once served Tudor and Laura Holcomb’s farming operation, will be filled with flowers, spring through fall, for everyone to enjoy.

Fresh Access

Our Fresh Access program, through which we provide about a quarter of the food we grow to people in need or who might not otherwise

have access, has grown tenfold in the past eight years. As we look to 2023 and beyond, we know the need is unlimited. We are constrained only by the amount of food we can grow and by the funding we can raise through grants and donations. Joe’s sustainable farming practices and the tillable land we currently have available, as well as future opportunities to involve other local farmers in the process, help us to address food production. We are hard at work—always—on fund raising. If you or a funding organization in which you are involved is interested in supporting this important work, please let us know at info@holcombfarm.org/ or email me at jpemery5@gmail.com Over the next few months, we plan to highlight our current institutional partners, so watch for more information.

The Friends of Holcomb Farm – a Community Service Organization

While the Friends of Holcomb Farm have been doing what we do for 30 years, we know that we remain “new” to many in Granby. We want to change that. A major goal of our “Season of Celebrations” this year is to create a variety of opportunities for individuals and families to experience all we do at Holcomb Farm.

If you are already a member, we hope this is the year you will get even more involved. If not yet a member, and this sounds like something that might interest you, here is a preliminary schedule of “events” to be held at the Farm June through October. Mark your calendars; visit our website, where you can sign up for our email communications; follow us on social media; and watch for this, our Drummer page, where we will post updates monthly. Until then, enjoy the lengthening days.

A Season of Celebrations

June 2 – CT Trails Day – Guided Hikes for Recreation and Education – HF Main Campus

June 17 – Opening CSA/Farm Store Day with Family-Friendly Events – HF CSA Barn

Aug. 19 – FOHF Annual Meeting – HF North Barn

Mid-Sept. – Open Farms Day (Townwide) – HF CSA Barn and Fields

Sept. 24 – Granby Land Trust en plein air “Paint Out” - throughout the property

Oct. 28 – Harvest Dinner honoring 30 years of volunteers – HF North Barn

The pond served Tudor and Laura for years, and we look forward to liberating it from invasives as a part of our 2023 service to the Granby community.

April 2023 deadlines

ADS: Wednesday, March 8 at noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, leave message.

Email: ads@granbydrummer.org

ARTICLES: Monday, March 13 at noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222.

Email: editor@granbydrummer.org

WORK DATES: March 8-19 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 on the website at granbydrummer.com

Closer to Home

Support