Granby Drummer | May 2024

BUDGET REFERENDUM PASSED

On April 15 the Town Budget Referendum was held at Granby Town Hall, with 1,112 residents casting in-person ballots and 28 voting with absentee ballots. The result was 658 “yes” and 482 “no.”

Murder by Indecision was a decisive hit!

Building relationships toward better municipal cooperation

About town

Connecticut has 169 towns that all provide municipal services like assessment, tax collection, land records recording, building inspection services, public works services like trash collection, road maintenance and snow plowing, first responder services like police and fire protection, and, of course, education for the town’s children and young adults.

While salaries to pay these municipally required employees is usually a town’s largest expense, each community is a major consumer of commodities like gasoline, diesel, electric, natural gas, and professional services including electricians, plumbers, HVAC contractors, architects, and engineers of various disciplines.

If each of the 169 Connecticut towns went it alone to secure these services, the town would usually issue a request for proposal (RFP) and identify local vendors who can meet the town’s consumer needs. And that process is highly inefficient as 169 towns issuing individual RFPs for unique needs is slow,

About Town cont’d. on p. 5

Still Pending: 37 Hartford Avenue

By Chris Levandowski

Months of public hearings for a 42-unit apartment building at 37 Hartford Ave. ended at the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission meeting on April 10.

Vessel RE Holdings and Vessel Technologies, Inc., again presented its case for approval of a septic system and argued against the alternative—connecting to the town’s sewer system.

Vessel Vice President Josh Levy argued that constructing a line to the Bank Street sewer hub would be too expensive, and that the Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) wouldn’t approve it. Granby’s town planner had said there

was no plan to extend the sewer line.

However, Director of Community Development Abby Kenyon clarified the DOT position. During her recent conversation with Ron Ferris at the DOT, he said a connection is possible.

A heated exchange occurred between commission member Nicholas Dethlefsen and Vessel’s Levy and James Sipperly as they described a red maple swamp’s (the wetland) ability to attenuate nitrates from any source. Dethlefsen asked if theVessel representatives were saying nitrate seepage from the septic system would be absorbed by the red maples, thus confirming runoff would occur.

Still Pending cont’d. on p. 7

Learn about busy beavers at Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve

Come join the Granby Land Trust for a roughly 90-minute, family-friendly walk at the GLT’s Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve to investigate the world of beavers. See firsthand how these industrious creatures profoundly affect the surrounding environment. No dogs, please. This walk will be led by board member Dave Emery on Saturday, May 18, starting at 12 p.m.

Register in advance by emailing DWEmery79@gmail. com

MEMORIAL DAY PARADE SCHEDULE

Make your plans to attend Granby’s annual Memorial Day Parade and program to be held on Monday, May 27. Parade Marshal and American Legion Post 182 Commander Wayne Adams announced that this year’s honorary parade marshal is United States Navy veteran James O. Hall.

The parade will line up at 9:30 a.m. in the parking lot on Bank Street and step off at 10 a.m. sharp. Stops will be made to lay wreaths at the War on Terror, Legion and World War I monuments before continuing to the cemetery. Services there will include American Legion District 1 Commander Joe Haney as guest speaker. The invocation and benediction will be offered by St. Therese’s Father William Agyemang. There will also be a 21-gun salute, and Taps will be played in remembrance of all who served.

Following the service, the parade will return to the town green and disband. After a brief recess, the Marquis of Granby Fife and Drum Corps will present a short concert. A limited number of concession stands on the green will offer food for sale.

All vehicles and floats and concessions on the green must be approved by Parade Marshal Adams. For more information, call him at 860-234-7919.

with Mike wAlsh Town Manager

Cast photo with artistic director front and center, Meaghan Farrell Front, from left: Carol Cisek, Patricia O’Connor, Beth Goodwin, Madison Bailey, Krista Krupa, Nick Parisi, Taryn Poe, Olivia LeBlanc. Back, from left: Linda Slozak, Cheryl King, Nicole Muller, Bob King, Masha Schmitt, Jason Black, Ray Pinault, Mags Campbell, Tara DeMoe. Submitted photo

Safe Grad announces art contest winners

Granby Parents for a Safe Graduation (GPSG) announced the winners of its annual Senior Art Contest on April 16. Thank you to all the students who submitted an entry with this year’s theme, Adventure Awaits! in mind. All submissions were incredibly creative, and the committee had a very hard time choosing a winner.

The final vote awarded artwork by Kylie Matthis, featuring a bear walking into the unknown cheered on by graduates, as the first-place winner. Riley Kuester was awarded second place, and Gracey MacDonald took third. Kylie’s design will be featured on the Grad Night party invitation and T-shirt. Congratulations to Kylie and all of our winners!

Pictured from left, Luisa Alvarez (GPSG representative), Hollie Hecht (GMHS art teacher), Gracey MacDonald, Kylie Matthis, Riley Kuester and Michael Dunn (GMHS principal). Submitted by Deneika Janski

Police Chief warns of scammers

The April presenter at the Granby Men’s Breakfast was Police Chief Scott Sansom (at right), who informed us what to do and NOT to do when confronted by a potential scammer. One tip: if someone asks for your social security number, give them the last four digits ONLY! Submitted photo

Help us find you in an emergency

By Brian Long, Fire Marshal

During an emergency it is important that emergency personnel quickly identify your house when responding. Finding your home, especially at night, is quite challenging if your address numbers are hidden, unreadable, unlit or missing entirely. This can result in the delay of emergency responders getting to your emergency quickly.

Check your house and help your elderly neighbors. Are your house numbers visible from the street? Are they set on a background of contrasting color? If your house is hidden from the street, are your numbers attached to a post, visible fence, mailbox or gate at the end of your driveway?

Help us keep you and your family safe. If you need additional assistance, please contact us today at 860-844-5321 or firemarshal@granby-ct.gov

Other Spring Fire Safety Tips

Flammable Liquids Safety: Only store gasoline in a container designed for that purpose. Never store gasoline containers or power equipment in basements or occupied space of the home. Be sure the container’s cap and vent are closed completely.

Grills and Propane Safety: Never store LP gas grill propane tanks inside your home or garage. Inspect your grill to make sure it’s free of grease or other combustible debris. Check grill propane tank hose for leaks or damage prior to use.

In Memory of ...

Slater, Frederick C., 99, husband of the late Alma B. Slater, February 14

Hiatt, Beverly Ann (Boales), 86, wife of the late John Stephen Hiatt, March 18

Mountain, John W., 55, husband of Tracy V. (Strniste) Mountain, March 19

Edgar, Ruth Lorene (Lori), 95, March 24

Lanser, Benjamin W., 33, March 24

Simpson, Donald C., 80, March 24

Carter, Carolyn Akers, 77, wife of Robert J. Carter, March 28

Saltus, Joan A., 84, wife of the late Edward S. Saltus, March 28

Loomis, Charles E., 88, husband of the late Alice (Sheldon) Loomis, April 5

Nystrom, Thomas Leif, 86, husband of Marilyn Nystrom, April 6

GRANBY PLANNING & ZONING HIGHLIGHTS

MARCH 12, 2024

Present: Christine Chinni, Mark Lockwood, Eric Myers, Robert Lavitt, Steven Muller, Eric Lukingbeal, Meg Jabaily, Director of Community Development Abigail Kenyon and Land Use Coordinator Renee Deltenre

Application seeking a Site Plan

Modification and Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 3.5.4.3 for three storage structures, outdoor commercial activity/display, and other site improvements for a property located at 563 Salmon Brook Street, C2 Zone.

Applicant and property owner Jan Kahn of New England Pine Timber Company discussed revisions to the proposed site plan. The applicant is no longer seeking approval for an 80 x 40 storage structure to the rear of the property. The revised site plan indicated areas for outdoor storage and display, milling, product waste, log storage, fencing, landscaping berms and the placement of two 13 x 20 temporary carports. Kahn’s business plan outlined hours of operation, trash management and a description of the overall activities.

Kenyon requested more information specific to the days and hours when outdoor milling would occur. Kahn said that outdoor milling is weather dependent between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on days the business is open to the public and is meant for larger products that cannot fit inside the building. When equipment is not in use or off-site, it would be stored in the temporary carports. The proposed display areas would display equipment and products for sale: e.g., log splitters, conveyors, excavator attachments, wood slabs, etc.

Commission members asked about the potential noise generated by outdoor milling, the number and frequency of bringing logs onsite, references made to stump removal and the use of temporary carports versus permanent structures.

Kahn indicated that he is still in the process of cleaning up the site and has stumps that need to be removed, and no additional stumps would be brought on-site. Approximately 20-30 logs would be delivered at a time and the milling equipment utilizes a 28-horsepower Kohler engine, which Kahn stated was quieter than a leaf blower.

Public Comment

Paula Johnson, 289 Simsbury Road, asked if the business would process and sell firewood as it was mentioned in the original application. Kahn indicated that was an error, and no firewood would be processed or sold on-site. The commission recommended that the applicant work with town staff on modifying the site plan to address concerns identified this evening. The public hearing was continued to the next regular meeting (March 26, see below).

Application seeking a Site Plan Modification for property located at 13 East Granby Road to construct a parking lot and connect to the parking lots at 4 Park Place and 17R East Granby Road, COCE.

The property has an existing single-family home and detached garage to the rear. It abuts 17R East Granby Road where @ the Barn Restaurant is located, as well as 4 Park Place where Grassroots is located. Professional Engineer and Land Surveyor Ed Lally discussed the application to expand the parking lot for @ the Barn into the lawn area to the rear of the house at 13 East Granby Road and to connect to the parking lot at Grassroots.

Two variances were received by the Zoning Board of Appeals in November 2023 to accommodate the required lot line revision necessary to facilitate the additional parking for 17R East Granby Road, as parking lots are not an accessory use to a single-family home. Specifically, 10,987 square feet from 13 East Granby Road will be added to 17R East Granby Road once the lot line revision is filed in the town land records. The site plan proposes the addition of 24 parking spaces and would provide interconnectivity between 2 Park Place, 4 Park Place, 11 East Granby Road and 17R East Granby Road. The property owner is proposing a shared parking agreement whereby all property owners would be able to utilize the parking spaces.

It was noted that even with the removal of two spaces on 4 Park Place for the proposed driveway, there is more than enough parking to comply with the zoning regulations for the current uses of all properties that would be subject to the shared parking agreement. Lally discussed the replacement of the failing stormwater management system, lighting plan, landscaping plan, snow storage, etc. Kenyon ran through staff comments and noted corrections necessary to Sheet 1, as well as the metal light pole height and the submittal of a photometric plan. The commission discussed whether the proposed lighting would be adequate. There was no comment during the public hearing.

The commission voted (7-0-0) to approve the application contingent upon addressing, to the satisfaction of staff, the four comments outlined in the Feb. 29 memorandum to the planning and zoning commission from the director of community development.

MARCH 26, 2024

Present: Eric Lukingbeal, Paula Johnson, Eric Myers, Robert Lavitt, Brennan Sheahan, Meg Jabaily and Steven Muller, Director of Community Development Abigail Kenyon and Land Use Coordinator Renee Deltenre

Application seeking a Site Plan Modification and Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 3.5.4.3 for three

storage structures, outdoor commercial activity/display, and other site improvements for a property located at 563 Salmon Brook Street, C2 Zone

Applicant and property owner Jan Kahn said cleanup has continued and approximately half of the logs stored at the rear of the site have been removed. The commission discussed at length concerns with the window of time proposed for outdoor milling each day when the business is open. With a need for flexibility due to weather and other business operations, it was recommended that the applicant operate for no more than one hour per day during a set timeframe.

After reviewing the revised site plan, the commission discussed the potential for a site walk in order to get a better understanding of how the business will operate in relation to the site. The commission recommended that the applicant collaborate with staff to button-up the site plan and begin arranging the site to demonstrate how the proposed site plan will function.

Public Comment

Jeff Salinardi, 17 East Street, stated that he has no issues with the operation(s) proposed; however, he expressed concern that the site might not be appropriate for the use. He stated that there are still many unanswered questions and recommended that the commission visit the abutting residential neighborhood on Sawmill Road.

The public hearing was continued. The commission will visit the site on April 8 (see below).

Commissioner Reports and Correspondence

Lavitt attended the CRCOG Regional Planning Commission meeting on March 21 and reported that CRCOG is seeking pictures of historical landmarks and people from numerous

towns, including Granby, and is finalizing the 2024 Regional Plan of Conservation and Development.

APRIL 8, 2024

Present: Eric Lukingbeal, Paula Johnson, Robert Lavitt, Steven Muller and Brennan Sheahan, Director of Community Development

Abigail Kenyon.

The commission conducted a site visit at 563 Salmon Brook Street to gain understanding of the application seeking a Site Plan Modification and Special Permit for three storage structures, outdoor commercial activity/display, and other site improvements. The applicant, Jan Kahn, showed the attendees the front of the property where the proposed outdoor display area would be located, indicating where a stockade fence would be installed to screen the storage area to the rear of the site.

Commissioners walked the side and rear of the site, observing where the outdoor log storage area, finished and semi-finished product display area, and temporary storage structures would be located. They observed the location where the stockade fence would be replaced to buffer the residential houses behind the property, saw the location of the woodchip berm, which has been installed, and noted that the height of the log storage area currently on site exceeds eight feet. It was noted that a current additional log storage area would be the area for semi-finished and finished product display as shown on the site plan.

Kahn operated the sawmill so the commissioners could hear and see the operation in action from various vantage points. It was noted that trailers used by the business were parked in the front of the building and there was other equipment for sale in areas that did not coincide with what was shown on the site plan.

Calling all artists to join in GAA All Members Show

The Granby Artists Association (GAA) will again present its annual All Members Show at Lost Acres Vineyard. The show will run from June 7 to July 7 with an opening reception on Saturday, June 8 from 4 to 6 p.m.

Since 2002, the association has worked to create a vibrant and supportive community for the arts in Granby. We invite all our members and the community to participate and show off your talents.

This is an invitation to all new, emerging and accomplished artists who are GAA friends, have a family membership, are a non-exhibiting member or are an exhibiting artist to exhibit their work. Not yet a member? We invite you to join our organization! Become a member and take part in this annual showcase of local artists at Lost Acres Vineyard in their beautiful gallery for the entire town and all visitors to admire.

To join GAA and participate in the show, visit granbyartists.org and under

“About Us and Membership” click on “Membership Application Form” to join and then complete the show registration form. If you are a member already, simply complete the registration form for the All Members Show.

We hope to have an amazing range of community art to share with friends, family and visitors. Everyone is invited and encouraged to view the works and support your local artists during the opening reception on June 8 from 4 to 6 p.m. and celebrate the diversity of art being created in our community. Many of the pieces will be available for purchase. Wine will be available for purchase along with complimentary light refreshments.

If you can’t make it to the reception, Lost Acres Vineyard is open from noon to 6pm on Fridays and Saturdays and on Sundays from noon to 5pm. We look forward to seeing you there!

Submitted by Granby Artists Association

Appreciate Waypoints column

Reading Mark Fiorentino’s column in the April issue (Waypoints, If You Love Me Like You Love Me) really brought home the message that we can love some of our companion animals beyond all reason.

I have also had a great dog, but the partner that I miss the most, almost like I’ve lost a limb, is my Dutch warmblood, Pico. Pico and I shared many adventures on the horse trails in Granby. Hiking those trails today without him makes my heart ache.

The day I read Mark’s column about Apollo it had been nine years (nine years, two months and 25 days, actually) since I said good bye to Pico. The column reminded me of all the exciting, funny, sometimes frustrating, always wonderful times I had with my horse. As much as it hurts to lose a special companion, I wouldn’t trade the memories.

Thanks for honoring Apollo, and reminding us of the marvelous animals that we are lucky enough to have in our lives.

Amanda Lindberg East Granby

Underfunded not same as unsuccessful

We are writing in response to the recent article in the Vision / Community Education Supplement [inserted in the April issue] regarding the GMHS Fine Arts Booster (FAB) organization. While we certainly support FAB’s endeavors, we hope to provide a clearer snapshot of the performing arts program in our town, as our children have been participants during various years since 2011. The article correctly credits leadership of the GMHS Dramatic Arts Team from Leeayn Burke, Nikki Currie-Huggard and Janet Spatcher. However, we feel strongly that choreographer Meg Funk and musical director and teacher Mindy Shilansky should be included as impactful members of this group.

Funk took over as the spring musical’s choreographer after many years of dedication from GMHS alum Katrina Rambush. As choreographer for the past two musicals, Funk has elevated the level of performances, patiently adding a whole new element of skill for many

students who have never formally taken dance before. Additionally, dancers from her Nutmeg’s Dance Studio have joined productions for years.

Mindy Shilansky certainly has encouraged the involvement of “multiple generations of students” in GMHS’s productions. Even before Shilansky was officially named musical director, she donated her time and talent, preparing students for the musical by providing extra vocal practice sessions. She also teaches the introduction to drama class at the high school, promoting student participation in both the fall play and spring musical. She spends countless hours preparing practice tracks and transposing songs, all to allow students to showcase their best vocal abilities. She is a huge reason for the program’s success.

Which brings us to our final point—the success of the program. It is important to note the dramatic arts program has been successful for many years, well before the establishment of FAB. To suggest “decreased patronage” and the threat of the program’s discontinuation is news to us. It is true that COVID-19 forced the cancellation of the musical in 2020, creating a financial loss. In spite of this disappointing situation, the postpandemic program came back stronger than ever, with growing numbers of students involved in both cast and crew each year.

Footloose was indeed a smashing success. However, be assured that previous years’ productions were equally successful. Attendance at performances has been robust, although variable depending upon the size of the cast and selection of the show. Productions have received multiple Halo nominations (and awards) for the past several years, acknowledged as some of the finest performances in Connecticut.

The GMHS Dramatic Arts program was never “off track.” We feel it is important to understand that being underfunded is not the same as being unsuccessful. We hope the entire team at GMHS realizes that we recognize the difference and applaud their efforts. Funding is certainly needed as the town does not assist with critical equipment necessities (like the sound system generously provided by the Granby Education Foundation) or production

costs. We are confident that with FAB’s support, the program will continue to flourish.

Sara Scotto, West Granby Deb Ranicar, North Granby

Smart Phones are dumbing down our children

Home schooling has significantly increased over the past two years. One would doubt that parents/caregivers who participate in this form of education allow cell phones during instruction hours because it interferes with direct communication amongst the participants and the children aren’t diverted from the work at hand.

So why are cell phones allowed in our educational institutions during school hours? They aren’t needed to take selfies, check any social media websites, do math, utilize them as a thesaurus, text each other, harass other students or call parents in the middle of classes. They are distracting and rude to teachers who should have their students’ full attention to educate a fully attentive audience. Allowing the use of Smartphones prevents students from making the most of their 180 school days, virtually and in person as required by state and/or federal law to fulfill graduation requirements to pass to the next grade.

Letters cont’d. on p. 5

West Granby resident joins Aurora board

By Michelle Murphy

West Granby resident Katherine Hall, vice president of global programs for Koyamada International Foundation (KIF), has been elected to the board of directors of the Aurora Women and Girls Foundation, a non-profit based in West Hartford.

KIF is a non-governmental organization whose mission is to empower youth and women to reach their full potential and to provide humanitarian aid to support peace and sustainable development around the world.

Hall and her family moved to West Granby in 2021, after living in Tokyo for nearly 12 years. Before relocating, she served as the director of the longestrunning daily outreach program for Tokyo’s unhoused population, as well

About Town cont’d. from p. 1 costly and creates a bottleneck as each town works to accelerate projects meaningful to the community.

A partial answer to this conundrum that our town faces is membership in the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM), the Capital Region Council of Governments (CRCOG) and Council of Small Towns (COST).

CCM does good work representing all 169 cities and towns on legislative issues while its insurance arm, the Connecticut Interlocal Risk Management Association (CIRMA), supplies most of the 169 cities’ and towns’ property and casualty insurance needs.

CRCOG also does good work aligning the regional needs of 38 central Connecticut towns, including some shared bidding on gasoline, diesel and heating oil, among others.

COST also represents dozens of Connecticut towns at the Capitol, so our voices are heard on smaller town issues. But that still leaves Granby spending a lot of time, energy and money procur-

ing alone. So, what do we do to become more efficient? We build relationships with nearby towns.

Enter the Northeastern Regional Municipal Government Cooperative (NRMGC) whereby eight geographically co-located towns, including Windsor Locks, Suffield, Enfield, East Granby and Granby, work together on issuing joint bids for services that each town uses.

The end result of such cooperation is quicker turnaround on projects as local vendors are pre-priced and ready to use, more local vendor selection as a vendor submits one bid for use by eight towns, and better volume-based pricing.

So that’s a peek inside how your community participates regionally for better representation on legislative issues, and how by banding together on procurement, we receive better pricing from local vendors than if we went it alone. Looking into the future, the stage is set for more regional cooperation on a host of local issues, and that’s good for our town.

Poll worker information meeting

May 22

On May 22, meet the Registrars and learn about how we ensure our right to vote. Lots of poll workers will be needed for 2024. If you are good at typing, your help will be needed during the 21 days of Early Voting (mid-August, late October, early November.) Poll workers will also be needed for the Aug. 13 Federal Primary and for the Presidential Election on Nov. 5. If you would like to participate, please register for the meeting on May 22 by sending an e-mail to the Registrars at registrarofvoters@granby-ct.

gov Classes are held in the Town Hall Meeting Room, 15 North Granby Road. All are welcome. New twist on spring voter canvass

To protect the rights of voters during the presidential primary, no canvass letters were mailed prior to April 2, which means registrars throughout the state are completing their mailing in April, as the last day to send is May 1.

Every year the Registrars’ office is required to identify names on our official voter registry that may need to be removed through an annual, selective canvass of voters. You can help the town by letting the registrars know if you or your grown children have moved out of Granby. The DMV and other town agencies also regularly let registrars know about people who have moved to and from Granby. But this is not enough, and most out-of-state moves are not reported. Granby identifies those who no longer belong on their voter registry by using a National Change of Address service. This service identifies people who have filed a change of address with the post office. From this listing, the registrars expect to send out more than 200 letters to people who are likely to have moved out of town.

Another 100 potentially former residents will receive canvass letters based on no activity, i.e. people who have not voted or registered to vote in the last four years. The third source of information is the Electronic Registration

Letters cont’d. from p. 5

We worry about the drugs entering our country, but cell phones are a drug and a dangerous addiction that interferes with proper development of socialization skills necessary to solve problems, negotiate, debate intelligently, speak extemporaneously and establish personal confidence.

Information Center which compares national and state databases to Granby’s Voter Registry.

Why is all this canvass stuff important?

Because the number of ballots ordered is based on Granby’s total numbers of active voters, and this is now a significant part of the town’s budget. By keeping the town’s voter list as accurate as possible, registrars minimize printing costs.

Early voting was a limited success

At the end of March, we held the historic first four days of early voting. Voters were pleasantly surprised at this new way of voting, and in general, it was positively received. Poll workers were disappointed at the small turnout: only 112 early votes were cast over four days. That averages to one voter every 17 minutes.

Presidential Preference Primary Vote

The Presidential Preference Primary had a very low turnout. Only 355 Republicans out of 2,458 and 370 Democrats out of 2,481voted in the primary—fewer than 15 percent overall.

Welcome to Iris Engel, Best Wishes to Stephanie McGuire

We are delighted to welcome new Deputy Registrar Iris Engel to the Registrar’s Office. Sadly, we are saying adieu to Stephanie McGuire, who is moving south with her husband Tom this spring. Best wishes to them both. They were a treasured part of our poll worker team. Feel free to stop by to register to vote, to determine your voting district or to make corrections in person at the registrars’ office in the town hall any Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please note that voter registration forms are also available at town halls, libraries, DMV offices and online at the secretary of state’s website, sots.ct.gov

Questions?

Please feel free to contact registrars Laura Wolfe and Paul Willis at 860-844-5322 or 860844-5323 or registrarofvoters@granby-ct.gov

Allowing Smartphones in the school day venue is irresponsible, which is evident in the fact that school grades and test scores have declined in the past number of years.

Susan Patricelli Regan

Katherine Hall, submitted photo as statutory auditor for the American School in Japan and a volunteer for the Hands-On Tokyo and Shine On! Kids organizations.

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 Sandra Yost at 860-844-5351. Office hours are weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Elderly (65+) or Disabled Homeowners

Tax Relief

Applications are accepted through May 15. Income qualified applicants may receive up to $1,250 for married couples, and up to $1,000 for singles. A SSA 1099, or its equivalent, is required to be provided by each applicant. To apply contact the assessor’s office at 860-8445312.

Elderly (65+) or Disabled Renters

Rebate

Applications are accepted through Oct. 1. Applicant must have turned 65 years of age by the end of 2023. Persons under 65 years of age who are receiving Social Security Disability are also eligible. To apply contact Social Services at 860-844-5350 for a confidential appointment.

Renters Requirements (not comprehensive): Must have rented in Granby during 2023 and currently reside in Connecticut.

Provide proof of rent paid in 2023 (rent receipts from landlord or cancelled checks).

Provide proof of actual bills paid in 2023 for electricity, gas, water and fuel.

Provide proof of income (Form SSA 1099, pensions, etc.).

Granby Local Assistance Program

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

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 211.

Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273- 8255

When It Builds Up, Talk It Out: With this campaign launched by United Way 211 and DCF, you can talk to a professional at 833-2585011 or talkitoutct.com

State of Connecticut Department of Social

Services: For assistance with applying for benefits, such as Medicare Savings Programs, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, call 860-724-6443, ext 275 for the Benefits Enrollment Center.

Senior Job Bank: A nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people over the age of 50 find part-time work in the West Hartford community and surrounding towns. Jobseekers are connected with part-time job opportunities in businesses, municipalities and nonprofits as well as per diem work with individuals. Visit seniorsjobbankct.org or call 860-521-3210.

Food Resources

Granby Food Bank: Located at 248 Salmon Brook Street, hours are Tuesday 10:30 a.m.–noon and Thursday 2–3:30 p.m. Before using the Granby Food Bank, 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 every Wednesday, 3–5 p.m. at Granby Congregational Church–South Campus, 242 Salmon Brook St. The meal is free, but an offering is always welcome.

Mobile FoodShare: Every other Tuesday, 1:30–2 p.m. Call for 2024 dates. Please park behind Granby Congregational Church–South Campus only and remember to bring your own bags. For more locations or weather cancellations visit ctfoodbank.org/get-help/ connecticut-food-banks-mobile-pantryschedule/

Life Church Hope 4 Life Food Pantry: Located at 23 Griffin Road, the food pantry is open on Wednesdays, 2–6 p.m. for members of Life Church as well as anyone who is in need. No qualification necessary; please bring your own bags. For more information, call the church office at 860-653-3308.

Open Cupboard Pantry at Granby Congregational Church–North Campus: 219 North Granby Road. Distributions on Fridays, 3–4 p.m. on a drive-through basis. Please enter the church parking lot via North entrance on Stratton Road. Call the 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.

SCHOOL BUILDING PROJECTS COMMITTEE HIGHLIGHTS

MARCH 28, 2024

SPECIAL MEETING

Present: Toby Proctor, Eric Brown, Bill Kennedy, Mark Migliaccio and Donna Nolan, Superintendent of Schools Cheri Burke, BOE Director of Facilities Shannon Sullivan and GMHS Principal Mike Dunn, Town Manager Mike Walsh.

Roof leaks at the high school

Sullivan and Burke reported on the March 14 meeting with the project’s architect Silver Petrucelli and others regarding the roof leaks at the high school. Silver Petrucelli has been a strong advocate for the town in discussions with the contractor. Repair methods as well as a five-year seam inspection were agreed upon. Although no one wants to accept responsibility, it appears that there was a problem with the glue the roof contractor used at the seams. The 30-year warrantee was repeatedly referred to because it is very important that the roof and the materials be covered.. Sullivan and Roberts met with the town attorney to discuss the issue and the options to assure that the leaks are properly addressed and going forward will not be an issue. The BOE has been unable to determine the exact cause of the leaks. The committee and BOE feel that due to the roof leak issues, the full scope of work has not yet been completed to their satisfaction. The project’s completion date was supposed to be August 2023. In addition, the ladder/block issues have not been resolved.

Some funding was held in reserve for this project. The contractor is reported to have said this project is substantially complete, although the BOE and committee don’t agree. There is concern as to when the 30-year warrantee on the roof goes into effect. The committee and the BOE feel that all the leak issues should be completely and satisfactorily resolved before the warrantee timeframe starts.

Damaged ceiling tiles in classrooms have been replaced. It was questioned why the clerk of the works wasn’t aware of the problem before the leaks were found. Could/should he have been more observant while the work was being done?

Middle school boilers

A quote for new boilers at the middle school has been received from Millenium, a contractor found through CRCOG. There was discussion regarding accepting this quote versus going out to bid. Using contractors from quotes obtained through CRCOG has been done in the past, as with the staircase at the high school, with success.

Kennedy noted that the committee has not been charged to oversee the middle school boiler purchase and installation project. Possible modification of the original charge was discussed, and Walsh said he will discuss it with the first selectman. Because the boilers are an immediate need, the project should be moved ahead quickly so they are ordered, received and installed during summer vacation.

PUBLIC WORKS

Trash Holiday: Monday, May 27 is a holiday for Paine’s. All trash and recycling pickups will be delayed by one day the week after the Memorial Day holiday.

Transfer Station hours: In addition to Saturdays, the transfer station will be open Wednesdays (8 a.m. to noon) through May 22.

DPW Open House and Shred event: Join us May 18 to learn about your DPW. The facility will be open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come check out our trucks and equipment while hearing about the many functions we handle to keep Granby beautiful and safe. Refreshments available.

In partnership with the Granby Lions Club, there will also be a shredding event that day from 9 a.m. to noon. This event is for residential only, no businesses. Documents are shredded on-site. Plastic bags cannot go into the shredder so please bring items in paper bags or in containers which can be emptied into the barrels

RecycleCT: check out this great new recycling resource, recyclect.com

Plastic bag recycling: Plastic bags and plastic wraps are recyclable but not in your curbside bin! Please look for the Store Drop Off label and take those bags/wraps to your local store. Along the same lines, please do not place your recyclables in plastic bags. Once the bag reaches the processing plant, they will assume it is trash and remove it from the recycling line. You’re basically wasting your recycling effort by doing this.

Yard waste: Yard waste cannot be placed in your trash or recycling barrels. Yard waste has been banned from curbside barrels since 1998. Grass, leaves and brush should be composted on-site or brought to the Granby Transfer Station.

Hazardous waste collection: The next hazardous waste collection will be in Simsbury on Saturday, June 9. More details will follow in next month’s Drummer

at home on April 1. Pictured are T.J. May base running and Trey Santasiere on the mound. Photos by Jay Harder

BOARD OF SELECTMEN HIGHLIGHTS

MARCH 18, 2024

REGULAR MEETING

Present: Mark Fiorentino, Mark Neumann. Kelly Rome, Frederick Moffa, Margaret Chapple, Town Manager Mike Walsh, Finance Director Kimi Cheng, Town Clerk Scott Nolan, Public Works Director Kirk Severance, and Student Liaison Ben LaVigne.

Potential use for Kearns property

In response to needs expressed by the Commission on Aging, the board agreed to conduct a Request for Proposal for the former Kearns school property for use as affordable senior housing and/or assisted living. This would further diversify housing and elderly housing in town as identified by the Plan of Conservation and Development.

Federal and state funding requests

Walsh recommended the town seek federal and state funds to help offset the significant costs of the radio communication project. In addition, to use the Kearns property for possible development as senior housing and/or assisted living, the existing buildings should be demolished. The board authorized Walsh to seek up to $4 million for the radio communications project, and up to $1 million for constructive reuse of the Kearns property.

Walsh will begin outreach to appropriate agencies.

Town Manager’s Report

Walsh had an opportunity to look at the basketball courts at Salmon Brook Park. He will request the Department of Public Works fill the cracks but also asked for a skilled Parks and Recreations consultant to look at the courts and make a proposal to the board. Walsh also noted that CIRMA, the town’s insurance company, would be coming out for an inspection.

SPECIAL MEETING

Community Development Director Abigail Kenyon and members of the Conservation, Development, Inland Wetlands & Waterways and Planning & Zoning commissions and the Board of Finance joined the special meeting for a question-and-answer meeting with Broadleaf Solar, LLC.

Broadleaf Solar LLC, D.E. Shaw Renewable Investments gave an overview of the proposed solar generation facility for the property at 90 Salmon Brook Street and 35 Floydville Road. Although Connecticut General Statutes identify the State of Connecticut as the governing entity for the project, Fiorentino said that Broadleaf Solar has been cooperative in working with Granby officials, and its representative was here to answer questions and listen to concerns.

Still Pending cont’d. from p. 1

Dethlefsen said that sounded as though Vessel would use the red maple swamp to process runoff from its system and argued there would be impact to the wetland. Sipperly said any minimal amount of input would be attenuated and would not cause “significant adverse impact”, the level of impact Vessel asserts must occur for the IWWC to deny a permit.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health and the Farmington Valley Health District’s approval is required for the project. Levy said that the twice-revised plot plan and newly-revised septic design had been submitted to both agencies on April 1. CDPH had requested additional perk tests at the bottom of the hill.

IWWC Agent Cameron Covill added that CDPH had several concerns, including soil testing results, the relocation of a retaining wall that would reconfigure and breach the hill leading to the wetland, and Vessel’s outstanding fees.

Covill cautioned that when Vessel addresses these issues plan changes will be inevitable. He advised that approval before they are addressed would not be prudent or in the best interest of the town or Vessel.

Attorney George Schober, representing Peter Voskowsky, an abutting landowner, presented an Environmental Intervention Petition, giving Voskowsky standing in the case. After some discussion of its impact, the commission accepted the petition. Voskowsky claims the project will cause irreparable damage to his property— the wetland. He has the right to appeal the commission’s decision.

Voskowky’s farm road skirts the edge of the wetland. He presented a video of groundwater seepage from the hill that flows across the road into the wetland. He contends septic seepage will do the same.

Ending a long session, and a monthslong public hearing, Chairman John Laudati formally closed the public hearing. Revised plot and septic plans will require further appearances by Vessel. The next IWWC meeting is May 8, where commission discussion and perhaps a permit decision will be made.

To watch the April meeting or read the full minutes, visit granby-ct.gov under agendas and minutes for IWWC.

Teacher Appreciation Week

National Teacher Appreciation is a week-long celebration in recognition of teachers and the contributions they make to education and society. It is held in the first full week each May to provide an opportunity for students, their parents and school administrators to show appreciation and to acknowledge the significant impact educators have on students, schools and communities. Granby Public Schools will honor our teachers the week of May 6 –10.

By expressing gratitude and appreciation for their hard work, dedication and passion, schools and districts not only boost teacher morale and job satisfaction but also reinforce a culture of respect, support and collaboration within the education community. Recognizing teachers during National Teacher Appreciation Week fosters pride among educators, motivating and empowering them to continue making a positive difference in the lives of their students.

We need your help! Please use the email address Letkindnessripple@ granbyschools.org to share a positive message of appreciation for a teacher in Granby Schools who had a positive impact on your life or your child’s life. We will share your messages with our teachers and send positive shout-outs on our social media @SuperintendentBurke on Instagram and Facebook. We wish to reaffirm the invaluable role educators play in shaping the fu-

ture and underscore the importance of investing in their professional growth, well-being and recognition year-round. Granby is so fortunate to have kind, knowledgeable and compassionate teachers from preschool through postgrad. Please join us in celebrating them!

Reminders

Don’t forget that Granby Public Schools has a new question and answer blog. Questions may be submitted by students, parents or community members via email to askgps@granbyschools.org and will be posted anonymously. All questions submitted will receive a reply from Granby Public Schools; however, not all questions will be chosen for publication.

Kindergarten registration for the 2024-25 school year is now open. The process involves completing an online registration that is posted on the Kelly Lane webpage, followed by a kindergarten orientation and activity day on May 3 for prospective kindergartners and their parents or guardians. During this day, families will learn about the transition to kindergarten, and children will work in small groups with current kindergarten teachers to listen to a story and complete an activity. As a reminder, beginning with the 2024-25 school year, children need to turn five years old on or before Sept. 1 in order to be automatically eligible for kindergarten. It is beautiful weather to cheer

Focus on Ed cont’d. on p. 9

NEED EXTRA SPACE?

GMHS Food for Thought Program strives to end student hunger

Granby Memorial High School is excited to announce its Food for Thought Program to the community. The mission of this district-wide, student-led initiative is to make sure no student goes hungry, as we understand the impact hunger can have on students. Food 4 Thought consists of three programs: Weekend Backpack Program, Snack Program and Afterschool Meal Program.

The Weekend Backpack Program provides weekly backpacks filled with groceries. Gifts of Love currently provides the food that is used to fill the backpacks. The application process is simple, there’s no commitment (you can cancel anytime), and it is completely free. Additionally, there is no family limit, meaning each student receives one backpack no matter the family size, and all GMHS students are eligible to participate including those living outside of Granby.

The Snack Program offers snacks to students in all our schools, intended for those who get

hungry and need a little something to help them get through the day. The snacks provided are nutrient dense, have very little to no sugar, and do not contain any high fructose corn syrup.

The Afterschool Meal Program provides a small meal to GMHS students who participate in extra-curricular activities and therefore are unable to make it home in time for dinner. Students sign up on a weekly basis.

Food 4 Thought will be hosting a food drive May 13 through 17 to give back to Gifts of Love, a local non-profit organization, for all they have given to our families and so many others throughout Connecticut. Please consider donating. Collection bins will be placed at the following locations: Farmington Valley YMCA, Granby Public Library, Geissler’s Supermarket, Granby Stop & Shop and all Granby Schools.

A huge thank you to all these locations that have stepped up to help us fight food insecurity within our community!

Submitted by GMHS Food 4 Thought students

Is Your Financial Advisor Really a Fiduciary?

The term fiduciary has become more commonplace nowadays. The investing public is more aware of the conflicts of interest inherent in the world of financial advice and demanding a higher level of duty from the stewards of their capital. In this article, I will explore what being a fiduciary means and some pitfalls to avoid.

So, what is a fiduciary? According to Investopedia, “a fiduciary is a person or organization that acts on behalf of another person or persons, putting their clients’ interests ahead of their own, with a duty to preserve good faith and trust.” What is missing from that definition is another important term: conflict of interest. A conflict of interest arises when an advisor is specifically compensated for placing certain investments in a client’s account, generally in the form of a commission or upfront sales charge. A true fiduciary should have no conflicts of interest; the only factor driving what goes into a client’s portfolio

should be suitability for individual circumstances and goals.

Here’s the problem: the industry is still rife with investments with major conflicts of interest. To name a few:

• A-share mutual funds that entail hefty upfront sales charges that get deducted from account balances;

• Annuities that pay large commissions to the advisors that sell them (and in the process lock up client funds for up to 10 years);

• Mutual fund companies that are owned by the financial advisory firms that sell them

So, all an investor needs to do is find a fiduciary advisor and then they are safe, right?

Unfortunately, that is not the case. According to the rules, and advisor can say he/she is a fiduciary if (a) there are no conflicts of interest or (b) conflicts of interest are disclosed. The latter is a little like saying it’s okay for me to rob your house if I tell you I’m going to do it. And let’s be honest – even if conflicts are disclosed, it’s rarely done in a transparent way. It often requires a lot of independent research on the part of the client.

The upshot is buyer beware. As you consider using an advisor who is a fiduciary, be sure to ask more questions around that. Finally, even if you are using a fee-only advisor, being a fiduciary doesn’t mean their fees are fair. The industry is still dominated by fees over 1%.

Data sourced from Morningstar, unless otherwise noted.

For more information, a description of Metric Financial and disclosures, please visit metricfin. com.

Emily Buder receives the Fund for Teachers Grant from the Dalio Education Foundation to travel to Scotland this summer. From left: Colleen Bava, Kelly Lane principal; Emily Buder, second grade teacher; Cheri Burke, superintendent of schools.

Monica Logan, board chair, recognized Carron Cooper, second grade teacher, at the April 3, Granby Board of Education meeting for receiving the Expect Excellence Award from the Connecticut Teacher Residency Program. Submitted photos

Granby taught me to dream big

By Chase Alexander, GMHS Class of 2024

When Mike Noyes prepared to leave the small-town he grew up in at the start of his freshman year at UConn, he did not have an exact plan for what lay ahead of him. He knew he liked basketball. A state champion with the Bears in 2013, it was obvious that he had a knack for it. Ten years later, his connection to the sport has taken him to places not even he could have imagined.

A gifted basketball player, Noyes’ skillset as a high school student encompassed far more than just his athletic ability. In his own words, he “wanted to pick college for school,” and would consider himself lucky if basketball would follow as part of the package.

Uncertain about the career he envisioned for himself, Noyes’ experience at UConn began to shape his post-college profession. Noyes remembers, “I knew I liked math, and I knew I liked sports, but never in my younger years did I envision being able to marry the two.” Enrolled in the actuarial science program, Noyes rekindled his involvement with the game of basketball when he walked on to Kevin Ollie’s Huskies by his sophomore year. He credits the experience for providing him with skills that serve him in his day-to-day role now, a player development coach with the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies.

Shortly after graduation, Noyes initially planned to assume a role working as an actuary at The Hartford. Three days before his scheduled start date, the Grizzlies came knocking on his door with an offer to work as a data scientist, a position placing him around a team whose roster was comprised mostly of players older than he was. Reflecting on his age similarity with many of the players he works with today, Noyes mentioned, “Being part of a college locker room at UConn gave me important insight into what players go through on a day-to-day basis, which

was invaluable when making the transition to working in the NBA.”

After six years he now finds himself working out with players directly, and added with a touch of humor that his unique position lends him the privilege of losing on-court drills against some of the world’s best basketball players.

Although his career has taken him far from the Constitution State, Granby continues to have an impact on Noyes. Speaking of Granby, he remembered, “Growing up in a small town gave me the confidence to dream big. I had a great support system, from my friends and family to my teachers and coaches. This sense of community helped me develop relationships that shaped who I am today. More than anything, I miss the people from Granby.”

In the future, Noyes aspires to take the reins of an NBA franchise and pace the sidelines as one of 30 head coaches in the league. In order to get there, he remembers some of the lessons that came to him from growing up in a small community, noting “If Granby has taught me one thing, it’s to dream big.”

High school choir students participated in All-State choirs

By Mindy Shilansky, Choir Director

Five GMHS Choir students were selected to participate in the 2024 CMEA All-State Honor Choirs. Luke Ranicar, Camden Bouley and Kiara Badowski were selected to perform with the AllState Mixed Choir under the baton of Dr. Arienne Abela while Sierra Ashe and Haritha Ramesh performed with the All-State Treble Choir conducted by Dr. Jamie Hillman.

Chosen after a rigorous audition process, these students spent three days in Hartford, singing music with accomplished singers from across the state. It is such an honor to be selected for the All-State choirs—they perform such beautiful, challenging music—you really have to be a topnotch musician. And there is no difference in level between the Mixed and Treble Choirs, one is not better than the other. The

Mixed Choir students get to perform in a large, mass choir of about 220 singers, so it is a very powerful, rich sound. The Treble Choir is somewhat smaller at 120, but the difference in timbre and repertoire makes it incredibly beautiful and rewarding.

Both choirs performed music from a variety of genres, cultures, and languages including songs in Arabic, Tagalo, Latin, English and Afrikaans.

Junior soprano Kiara Badowkski said, “Having the chance to be a part of something so special was truly amazing. I felt inspired by all the talent I got to sing with—it’s the people I met that made this experience one of a kind!”

All five students are members of the GMHS Concert Choir and Chamber Singers and also recently performed in the GMHS Winter Coffeehouse as well as the GMHS production of Footloose

Our talented students will also be performing the spring band concert in the auditorium on May 2 and the spring choral concert on May 23. Check our website for details.

Mike Noyes, submitted photo

Five members of the GMHS Choral program were accepted into the 2024 All-State Mixed and Treble Choirs. From left, Director Mindy Shilansky, Sierra Ashe, Haritha Ramesh, Luke Ranicar, Camden Bouley and Kiara Badowski. Submitted photo

Five things to know for a successful Granby Road Race

By Aubrey Schulz

On Saturday, May 4, we want all runners and members of the community to have an enjoyable morning, whether you are racing or spectating.

The morning consists of a 5K and 10K race starting at 8:30 a.m. in front of the Granby Memorial Middle School on Route 10/202. At 9:30 a.m., a Kids’ 1 Mile Fun Run caps off the morning of running. Get ready!

1. You can register on race day using your phone, but only until 8 a.m. But who needs that stress? Don’t wait until the last minute. Visit ghymca.org/ events/granby-road-race to register in advance. The deadline to get a tee-shirt was April 19, but you still get all the other great benefits!

2. When parking, use the entrance to the high school/middle school off Route 189. The entrance on Route 10/202 will be closed because the volunteers will be setting up for the race. Arrive early to get a good parking spot and reduce prerace nerves.

3. Runners love spectators! Let’s make some noise: make a sign, ring that cowbell! Cheer on the 5K runners in Salmon Brook Park, especially near the tennis courts. Make some noise for the 10K runners before they enter the woods into McLean. They run along Canton Road and enter the woods just after Whitman Drive. Stand on the corner of any street

along that stretch of road and cheer your loudest.

4. We love volunteers! It takes a lot of help to pull off a great race. We are looking for help on race day. Key jobs are handing out water and directing runners. Email granbyroadrace@ghymca. org to volunteer.

5. Celebrate the history of the Granby Road Race. As you toe the Dennis Lobo Start Line, race up Hildreth Hill and cross the David Bale Finish Line, you help honor the founders of the race who will forever be a part of the Granby Road Race course.

Let’s make the 2024 edition of the Granby Road Race a great one! We look forward to seeing you out there on race day!

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Eleanor Roosevelt touched many lives

By Susan Patricelli Regan

I noted with interest the article submitted by Sarah Merrill of Granby Racial Reconciliation (GRR) regarding the personal and political friendship between First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and Mary McLeod Bethune, one of the nation’s most powerful Black political figures through the 1930s and 40s.

Mrs. Roosevelt’s voice was respectfully welcomed on many global issues while President Roosevelt was infirmed with poliomyelitis during his years in office. By demeanor she was a cultured and worldly woman who managed to resonate with peers (both men and women) as well as the minimally educated person without patronizing the recipient of her message.

Sylvia Davis Patricelli, my mother, was honored by Roosevelt’s influence by bridging her internationally recognized talent as a portrait painter in her homeland and her new home as a WWII war bride in Hartford, having married my father in Sydney. Roosevelt had heard about my mother’s accomplishments, which included a significant array of Solomon Island native paintings, while accompanying her father on a gold mining trip to the Solomons a year before the start of the war.

To support Patricelli, Roosevelt wrote in her daily national newspaper column, My Day, of my mother’s achievements including her graduation from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts and recognition as the youngest and most talented student. She graduated from the academy at the age of 15.

Roosevelt had a personal relationship with Beatrice Auerbach, owner of G. Fox & Company, and encouraged Auerbach to hold an exhibition in the store. Roosevelt confirmed that if Auerbach did so that she would attend and speak at the event that occurred in 1951. Subsequently, the first lady sat

for her almost-life-size portrait, which now hangs in our home in Granby.

The exhibition was sponsored by G. Fox & Co., WTIC and the Wadsworth Atheneum. Auerbach also commissioned my mother to paint her portrait, which was done at the Auerbach Farm in Bloomfield. That portrait hung in Auerbach’s office and when she died the portrait was draped in black velvet and hung in the front window of the store for several weeks. The portrait now resides with the family.

In Patricelli’s memory, in 2017 our family established a non-profit foundation that provides fine art scholarships for secondary education tuition. Scholarships are awarded to high school students pursuing a minor or major in the creative arts. The Sylvia Davis Fine Arts scholarship has been awarded in private and public schools across Connecticut, including Granby Memorial High School. For the past three years the award has been with the CREC Half-day Art Program.

See Sylvia Davis Patricelli’s story, paintings and hear Mrs. Roosevelt’s entire speech at the 1951 exhibition, as well as further foundation information, at sylviadavisartfoundation.org

Susan Patricelli Regan with portrait of First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. Submitted photo

Daniel Owen of North Granby running an earlier 10K race through McLean.

Photo by Jay Harder

GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS

MARCH 6, 2024

Present: Liz Barlow, Heather Lombardo, Monica Logan, Donna Nolan, David Peling, Karen Richmond-Godard, and Rosemarie Weber. Absent: Chase Alexander and Katie O’Neill (Student Representatives).

Public Comment

Mike Kramarenko read a letter on behalf of a parent who could not attend the meeting. He also commented regarding incidents that occurred at a middle school dance and said the student handbook needs to be revised in reference to student discipline.

Increasing Educator Diversity Plan

The board considered approval of the Increasing Educator Diversity Plan to be submitted to the Connecticut Commissioner of Education. Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Parsons said recent legislation requires that every Connecticut district submit plans to the commissioner for how they plan to increase diversity within their educator population. Diversity is defined as racially, culturally, and linguistically diverse candidates and educators. A Theory of Action document was shared regarding certain tasks that are the responsibility of the human resources coordinator and the assistant superintendent in the areas of recruitment, hiring and selection and retention. Weber inquired if the Granby Equity Team should be added because educators are part of the team. Parsons agreed and she will make that addition. Barlow suggested using the Granby Equity Team to evaluate the experiences of candidates of color about any struggles or recommendations for the district. The board approved the Increasing Educator Diversity Plan as amended be submitted to the Commissioner of Education.

Superintendent’s Report

Congratulations to Lauren de Los Reyes on winning second place in the statewide Poetry Out Loud contest.

MARCH 20, 2024

Present: Liz Barlow, Heather Lombardo, Monica Logan, Donna Nolan, David Peling, Karen Richmond-Godard, Rosemarie Weber and Student Representatives Chase Alexander and Katie O’Neill.

Chairperson’s Report

Logan shared a series of events that occurred at the middle school in mid-March. One was a tripped fire alarm and Burke is working with facilities to remedy the issue. Soon after a pipe burst leading from the well to the ecology center, impacting the fish holding tanks. DEEP was called to assist with the fish, and 300 older fish were safely released with students assisting. The source of the leak was determined and repaired; water flowed again the next day. Both boilers failed. One was fixed and the other is beyond repair. The school can operate for the remainder of this heating season on one boiler. Logan stressed that aging infrastructure as well as inflation are driving up the budget.

Awards and Recognition

The board recognized Evie Bunz, seventh grader at GMMS, for her first-place finish in the National Young Writers Contest. Evie was also recognized for her first-place finish in the United Kingdom.

Public Comment

KC Petruzzi, science teacher and president of the Granby Education Association, said she wanted to share her perspective on the staff’s response to decisions that are made about our schools. Petruzzi spoke about teacher recruitment and retention statewide. Granby has historically had excellent teachers who have had long tenures in the system. In recent years, staff turnover has presented challenges to maintaining that quality. Petruzzi expressed her thanks to the community for demonstrating support for competitive pay for teachers during contract negotiations this past fall. She expressed concerns that cutting 6.0 FTEs might be efficient right now, but the cuts send a message of unreliable job security to potential new hires. She concluded by saying education is a service industry that costs money to do well and asked the board to consider what they are being asked to do in cutting services to meet a dollar figure. The board has an obligation to students, their families and employees—not just taxpayers in town.

Schools in the Spotlight

Ann Buckley, science teacher at GMMS, and students in grades 7 and 8 in the Fish Kids Club ,presented the history and activities performed at the Salmon Brook Ecology Center. Students presented information about the Ecology Center. Noah Woodman shared what is housed in the Ecology Center, such as tanks for raising juvenile fish as well as the water flow system that goes through the tanks, explaining that it is a closed loop system. Callum Tomala explained the classes held in the Eco Center where students observe Alevin (juvenile fish), under a microscope. Thomas Ladouceur explained the weights and measures of the fish that help to determine how much they are fed. Thomas Erickson spoke about the nursery, stating the eggs live in trays in the nursery until they are ready to hatch. Evie Bunz shared that hydroponics, the art of gardening without soil, is used in the Eco Center and uses 90 percent less water than traditional agriculture. Annabelle Leitao explained the purpose of the Fish Kids Club, the jobs performed by students in the center as well as necessary things that need to be done. Fish Kids are responsible for measuring food for the weekend and scrubbing the tanks, which is essential for keeping the system clean.

Carolyn Carter, a Granby treasure 1946 – 2024

Carolyn (Akers) Carter, 77, passed away on March 28, with her loving husband, Robert by her side. Carolyn was born in Goshen, N.Y. in 1946. Graduating from Goshen High School in 1964, Carter continued her education at Becker Junior College earning an associate degree in accounting. Carter came to the Hartford area, working briefly at Pratt & Whitney, at Travelers Insurance and then enjoyed a full career at Cigna in Bloomfield. Later, Carter was the treasurer for an investment arm of Cigna’s Global Portfolio Strategies.

Carter was a member of the Church of Scientology, having been introduced to the church by her husband Robert when they married in 1988. She was an active church member, helping many inmates through extension courses for some 29 years as part of the church’s Criminon program, and participating in many other church volunteer activities. Additionally, Carter was a staff member of the church’s local Hartford Mission for some 10 years.

Carter took pleasure in getting along with and helping others, and played an active part in the Granby community, serving as an elected town official (Zoning Board of Appeals) in the 1970s, and president of the Granby Community Fund. Carter also vol-

Carolyn Carter, submitted photo

unteered at the town newspaper, The Granby Drummer

The Granby Drummer is published by Citizens for a Better Granby. CBG board member and fellow volunteer, Carol Bressor, says about Carter, “Carolyn was so good at whatever she did. She was quiet, smart, steady and a good listener. She will be missed.”

“Carolyn was always very dependable and we could count on her attention to detail when proofreading the Drummer,” said former managing editor Rita Isaacson.

Local businesses spring to support Granby Fine Arts Booster

While students and administrators enjoyed some well-deserved time off during spring break, local businesses remained hard at work to ensure that the GMHS Dramatic Arts Program has a strong season next fall.

The Granby Fine Arts Booster (FAB), a newly launched 501(c)(3) organization, encouraged the community to take a break from cooking and enjoy dining out with two local restaurant partners: Drago’s Kitchen in Granby and Rush Bowls in Simsbury. Both establishments generously agreed to donate a percentage of their daily proceeds one day during spring break to the nonprofit. These donations will be used to help fund drama production expenses during the 2024-25 school year.

The organization received additional support in the form of a valuable and extremely fitting gift from a local community member. While working as a set construction volunteer during the GMHS production of A Christmas Carol in November, Mike Wagoner noticed that student set crew members

were using a small and aging assortment of unreliable drills, hammers, and saws to build set pieces.

Wagoner saw an opportunity for impact and coordinated with his employer WinSupply, a construction materials supplier, to donate a spectacular array of Milwaukee tools and storage solutions. This state-of-the-art collection will be stored and insured by the Granby FAB, and used by the stage crew to build sets for GMHS Dramatic Arts productions.

This community support from WinSupply, Milwaukee Tool, Drago’s Kitchen and Rush Bowls is essential and deeply appreciated. Contributions from charitable individuals and businesses like these provide resources to sustain and enhance the GMHS Dramatic Arts Program and illustrate to students how businesses and organizations can collaborate to build a thriving local economy and unified community.

Submitted by the Granby Fine Arts Booster

In Town Focus

Camera Club

The Granby Camera Club will meet at the Senior Center on Monday, May 6, at 7 p.m. The topic will be drones. This will be an interactive evening as we fly, learn and ask questions. Scavenger hunt words for April are: spring, obscure and favorite.

National Day of Prayer

The public is welcome to the 73rd Annual National Day of Prayer gathering being held on Thursday, May 2, at 6 p.m. at the Granby Municipal Building, 15 North Granby Road.

Women’s Breakfast

On Wednesday, May 1, the Granby Women’s Breakfast Group will be entertained by Granby resident Jo-Ann Smith who, along with her husband Jim Fergione, completed hiking the 2,194 mile-long Appalachian Trail. A delicious breakfast will be served at 8:30 a.m. and the program will begin at 9 a.m. Cost $5. In order to be properly prepared, it is important everyone make a reservation by calling the Senior Center at 860-844-5352. Participants are asked to bring a roll of paper towels to support the Granby Food Bank.

Buy a bag, support the Drummer

Citizens for a Better Granby, publisher of The Granby Drummer, will receive $1 for each $2.50 reusable community bag sold throughout May at the Granby Stop & Shop, 120 Salmon Brook Street.

We are grateful to Stop & Shop for providing an easy and eco-friendly way for the Granby community to support the Drummer!

Preserve Our Properties Day

On Sunday, May 19, from 12 to 2 p.m., join the Granby Land Trust for a work party on the GLT’s KatanEnsor Preserve in West Granby. Land trust members and Youth Conservation Corps members alike are needed to help us maintain and improve the trails on this beautiful property. We will meet at the trailhead at the end of Strong Road. Please bring work gloves, a water bottle and a shovel and rake if you have them. Let us know if you’ll be able to help by emailing Rick Orluk at rickorluk@peakeventmarketing.com We hope you can join us!

Men’s Breakfast

The Granby Men’s Breakfast will be Friday, May 10, 8:30 a.m. The speaker will be Nat Kennedy presenting Locking the Canal. He and his wife Linda are licensed boaters and spent two weeks alone piloting a 22-ton canal boat 300+ miles on canals, including the Erie Canal.

Register as soon as possible by calling the senior center at 860-844-5352. Your early registration helps the cook team have an accurate count for food orders and table setups.

Arrive between 8 and 8:30 a.m., pay the $5 fee, receive a badge, find a table and enjoy some coffee. Breakfast will be served at your table.

Civic Club

The Granby Civic Club will meet on Thursday, May 16 at 1 p.m. at the Senior Center. The guest speaker will be Annabel Dinse, coordinator of the Granby Food Bank. She will update us on the current needs of the Food Bank and our community. Guests and visitors are encouraged to come and become more aware of what is happening in our community. Refreshments will be served. For more information contact Ginny Wutka at ginny@lostacres.com

Rotary Club May Events

In May, the Simsbury Granby Rotary Club will have wonderful guest speakers at the morning meetings at Hopmeadow Country Club: on May 2, Jen Bell, the managing editor for The Granby Drummer; on May 9, Rick Orluk, president of Granby Land Trust; on May 16, Sandy Flagg, founder and director of Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen; and on May 23, Simsbury Police Detective Sergeant Scott discusses current scams and other happenings.

Vendor Opportunities

Granby Racial Reconciliation is offering businesses, organizations and community members an opportunity to host a booth at Granby Racial Unity Festival on Saturday, June 29. The arts festival will be held at Granby Memorial High School from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. This is an opportunity for participating organizations to share products and/or services with the community. Space is limited and registration ends May 31. A $50 donation is requested for each vendor. Vendors will need to supply their own tent, table and chairs. For additional information and to reserve a booth, visit granbyracialreconciliation. com/gruf-vendor-registration

In Town Focus was Granby’s original and much-appreciated calendar. Today’s digital calendars are wonderful personal reminders but the Drummer’s In Town Focus is tried and true!

Announce your organization’s upcoming events here to share with the entire community. Submit up to 120 words per announcement to: editor@granbydrummer.org

Out of Town

Windsor fundraiser benefits grieving families

On Sunday, May 5, Mary’s Place, A Center for Grieving Children and Families, will host its 11th Annual Memory Walk. The walk will start at 9:30 a.m. at Northwest Park, 145 Lang Road in Windsor.

Walk with us in memory of your loved one. This moving fundraiser connects families, friends and the community to support programs at Mary’s Place. Honor the memory of a loved one and help make a difference in the lives of grieving children and families by joining in this special event. Come and enjoy kids’ crafts, snacks, auctions and more. Register at marysplacect.org/memory-walk

Granby-Simsbury Chamber Golf Tournament

Friday, June 7 is the date for this year’s Granby–Simsbury Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, to be held at Simsbury Farms in memory of Joseph Nilsen. Cost for players is $165, which includes golf, breakfast, barbeque lunch, drink tickets, beer keg, raffle, auction and driving range. There is a $15 discount for players who register and pre-pay prior to May 24 Golf will be a scramble format with a shotgun start at 9:30 a.m. Sponsor-

ships and tee signs are still available and provide a great opportunity to promote your business or message or remember a loved one. This year’s presenting sponsor is State Line Propane and Oil. To register, please visit simsburycoc.com/events/details/2024golf-classic-2820 or call the Simsbury Chamber office at 860-651-7307 or tournament chair Bob Marx at 413977-6305.

Connecticut Trolley Museum May events

The Connecticut Trolley Museum (CTM) in East Windsor invites the public to its May events. For more information, please visit ct-trolley.org

Anything that Moves on May 11: Experience the golden age of transportation as trolley cars operate and are visible on static display. Ride on an antique streetcar and enjoy the Fire Truck Museum, located on the same campus as the trolley museum. Admission is $12 for adults, $11 for seniors 62 and up, $11 for youth age 12–17 and $9 for age 2–11. CTM members and children under two are admitted free of charge.

Homeschool Day on May 17: Students will participate in an educational tour about the trolley era and take a ride on an antique streetcar. Make your own junior motorman hat, navigate through the visitors’ center using a scavenger hunt, dress up as a motorman in the Imagination Center and visit the Fire Museum. Admission, activities, and Fire Truck Museum entrance are included with admission. This event is for students K-12th grade. Bagged lunch recommended. Register in advance for a discounted rate.

Regional Chamber of Commerce to hold symposium

The Bradley Regional Chamber of Commerce will hold a symposium on June 7 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Doubletree Hotel in Windsor Locks. The chamber’s annual symposium brings together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators for a half day collaboration of learning and networking. This year’s symposium is set to be a premier event for business professionals seeking to stay ahead of the curve in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. This year’s theme is Strategies for Success and reflects the chamber’s commitment to providing actionable insights and strategies to help businesses thrive. From learning new policies to harnessing the power of digital marketing, attendees will gain invaluable knowledge and tools to propel their organizations forward.

Distinguished keynote speakers include Meghan Rothschild, president and chief badass of Chikmedia, whose topic is current social media trends; Sheila Patrizz, small business manager of Smith Brothers INS, whose topic is what type of insurance do businesses need; Tanisha Baptiste, lead outreach and marketing specialist of Small Business Administration, whose topic is what an SBA can do for your business; and Chris Davis from the Connecticut Business and Industry Association.

Cost is $50 for Bradley and TVCA Chamber Members and $100 for non-chamber members. For more information and to register, visit bradleyregioanlchamber.org

Submitted by Bradley Regional Chamber of Commerce

History and arts hike set for Trails Day

By Eileen Vassallo

The Torrington Trails Network and Torrington Historical Society will conduct a Trails Day Hike from the John Brown Birthplace site on John Brown Road, Torrington on June 1 at 10 a.m.

The John Brown trail loop is an easy 0.7-mile loop that circles the site of the family home at the time of Brown’s birth and is maintained by the Torrington Historical Society. A recently built half-mile connector trail and boardwalk through a bog, constructed by the Torrington Trails Network, connects this loop to the Five Points Art Center located on University Drive in Torrington. The hike starts and ends at the home site.

The hike will begin with an historic overview of the site and a discussion of the importance of John Brown to U.S. history by the Torrington Historical Society. The site is a quiet, contemplative place surrounded by 100 acres of forest land. It is listed on the Connecticut Freedom Trail and is a Connecticut Archaeological Preserve.

The hike will start on the loop and continue on the bog connector trail and boardwalk to the Five Points Art Center, celebrating its Print Festival. This festival is free and hikers are encouraged to visit the exhibits, demonstrations, activities and food trucks. The hike will then retrace the route and return to the John Brown home site.

This hike is for all ability levels, although you can expect uneven ground and some muddy areas. Pre-registration is not required. Dogs are not permitted on this hike.

Memorial Day

We gather on the green, the sidewalks, and the roadways to honor and remember those who died in service to our country.

The veterans, servicemen and servicewomen, the band, the fife and drum corps, and floats go by. Salutes are given, wreaths are laid, planes fly by overhead. When the riderless horse goes by, tears come to our eyes.

At the cemetery, wreaths are laid, salutes are made, prayers and speeches are said, and the guns salute the dead. Taps is played, vibrating into our souls, and again tears are brought to our eyes.

We remember them. We will always love them. May they rest in God’s eternal peace.

Bernadette R. Gentry

Community Serve Day is May 18

By Dave Roberts

The next Stony Hill Community Serve Day will be Saturday, May 18, 9 a.m. to noon. This is a reschedule as the Granby Police Department cautioned that a closure of Salmon Brook Street for another activity would impact volunteers.

Volunteers are asked to arrive by 9 a.m. at the SHV Community Room, where they will be given an overview of the community and provided a volunteer job. Karen Young (Rotary Club of Simsbury/Granby) and Sandy Flagg (president of Stony Hill Village tenants’ association) are preparing lists of all assignments that could be accomplished.

If you have any suggestions, please contact Flagg (sandraflagg10@gmail.com) before May 1.

A rented dumpster will be available near the Building C parking lot for disposal of heavy-duty items that tenants would not normally place in the trash containers. One of the volunteer assignments will be helping remove materials from apartments to the dumpster. Water and snacks will be available in the Community Room, as well as restrooms for the volunteers.

To let me know that you will participate or to get more information, please contact me, Dave Roberts, at 860-4695067.

Granby Racial Unity Festival set for June 29

Mark your calendars for a day of family fun at the Granby Racial Unity Festival at Granby Memorial High School on June 29. This free interracial arts and education festival, hosted by Granby Racial Reconciliation (GRR), allows community members to learn and appreciate our differences and celebrate and embrace our similarities. The concept of racial unity is meant to drive collaboration, friendship, equity, access and social justice.

The day’s events will start with a 3-on3 basketball tournament for teens and adults. Musical festivities will begin at 2:45 p.m. with DJ DPHR as emcee. See the accompanying box for the day’s lineup.

For the past two years, GRR hosted Granby Celebrates Juneteenth in honor of the new federal holiday. For 2024, GRR will join other Farmington Valley towns for a Juneteenth celebration on June 15. The Racial Unity Festival on June 29 expands its celebration to be inclusive of all races and cultures, which fits with its mission of being committed to the ongoing work of racial reconciliation in and around Granby.

All of the festival events are free and open to the public. Food and drink will be available for purchase from various multicultural food vendors such as Ultimate BBQ, Sum Kim Bop Korean, StidYums Bakery, Bdelicious Ice Cream and others. Other vendors will also be on-site promoting products and services to the community. Free on-site parking is available.

For more details visit granbyracialreconciliation.com/racialunity

Submitted by Granby Racial Unity Festival Committee

JUNE 29 SCHEDULE

11 a.m. 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament: Preregistration by April 30 required. Special guest is actor Dennis “LA” Whit

2:45 p.m. Yootay Singers: Drummers from the Mashantucket Pequot tribal nation who bring music and healing to their community. The Institute for American Indian Studies will do a land recognition.

3:05 p.m. Welcome: Ken Mouning, GRR

3:15 p.m. Sensación Urbana: Lively, melodic Latino Dance Music

4 p.m. JADHA Double Dutch Exhibition: Carrie McCrorey from JADHA Foundation will provide an exhibition of beginning and experienced double Dutch skills. Throughout the day she will teach attendees. There will be an amateur contest for children and adults. WFSB weekend anchor Alleah Red will announce the winners.

4:15 p.m. Bharatanatyam: Indian Classical Dance Group whose form expresses South Indian religious themes and spiritual ideas of Hinduism and Jainism.

5 p.m. The Attik Bank: Granby high school students whose band plays a wide variety of musical genres but specializes in blues rock.

5:30 p.m. The Lost Tribe: Drum-centered Afro-funk ensemble, led by multi-percussionist Jocelyn Pleasant. It is a blend of djembe music into African Diasporic genres like jazz, rock, funk, blues and reggae.

6:45 p.m. Sazzy Brass: Interracial Jazz/R and B band with Granby resident Rosemarie Roy and Dawn Zukowski joining a full ensemble with jazz, blues and R and B numbers.

8:30 p.m. Close

by Michael Ungerleider D.M.D

RENEW YOUR SLEEP AND STOP YOUR SNORING WITHOUT THE CPAP

As many as 50% of adults have a snoring problem. Snoring is the sound that the soft tissues in your mouth and throat make as air passes through them, causing them to vibrate. When you’re awake, the muscles surrounding these structures keep the air passage open. But when you’re asleep, these same muscles relax, allowing your lower jaw and tongue to drop back and partially block the opening of your airway.

Many factors affect why people snore, including excess bodyweight, drug and alcohol use, congestion, swollen tonsils, and aging. Heavy snoring and delayed breathing of ten seconds or more may be caused by a more serious condition called sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is a far more serious condition. It occurs when the airway is completely blocked by the soft tissues in the back of the throat. When the airway is obstructed to such a degree, less oxygen reaches the blood and the brain. In response, the brain gives the “red alert” signal to the airway to unblock itself by tightening up. This causes the individual to gasp or snort abruptly, restoring breathing to normal. The cycle repeats itself throughout the night, disrupting sleep and leaving the individual exhausted after a night of on-again, off-again sleep. The condition can also cause headaches, moodiness, daytime sleepiness, and an inability to function properly. Sleep Apnea has also been linked to strokes, hypertension and even sudden death syndrome.

Treatment options for sleep apnea vary, with the most common physician recommended treatment being a CPAP mask. However, many people cannot tolerate or simply don’t like the mask. But now, there is a custom fit, comfortable, intraoral alternative. It basically is a set of custom specialized mouthguards that help to reposition the jaw, tongue, soft palate and nasal passages to improve airflow while sleeping. These appliances can be adjusted to allow you to stop snoring and feel better in the morning and throughout the day. They are typically as easy to wear as most retainers or other removable dental appliances. A confirmed diagnosis from a sleep medicine specialist is required before any treatment can be administered. Because sleep apnea can be a silent condition, it can go undiagnosed for many years. It is important to keep an open and honest dialog with health care professionals to ensure that conditions such as sleep apnea can be identified and properly treated.

If you or someone you love has a CPAP that he/she does not like, or simply can not tolerate wearing it, or have a spouse that keeps you up because of snoring, call for a consultation to see if they can benefit from an oral appliance. 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 and onlays in just one visit without the impressions or temporaries! Cone Beam CT imaging allows us to view images in 3D, enabling more accurate diagnosis, including your Airway 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.

John Brown, photo courtesy of Hulton Archive

The Montreal Protocol: A testament to global change

By Emma Kirkpatrick, Granby Conservation Commission

The Montreal Protocol, an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production of ozone depleting substances (ODSs), showcases successful international cooperation. As one of the most widely ratified treaties in the United Nations’ history, its success provides hope for responding to other environmental issues.

The ozone layer is located in the stratosphere and absorbs the majority of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, protecting life on Earth. Concerns regarding the effects of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) on the ozone layer were first raised by scientists in 1974. At the time, CFCs were used in air conditioners, aerosols and fire extinguishers. Consequently, in 1985, British Antarctic Survey scientists reported a significant depletion in the ozone layer above Antarctica, referred to as the “ozone hole”

The discovery of the ozone hole was met with increased research and public awareness of the effects of depleted ozone. These concerns were met with swift action and the Montreal Protocol was adopted on Sept. 16, 1987.

The treaty provides a timetable for each ODS, dictating when production and usage must decline. The protocol includes the establishment of control

measures, financial assistance for developing countries and the promotion of alternative technologies. To ensure compliance with its objectives, a new system for monitoring and reporting ODS emissions emerged.

Since its implementation, scientific studies have shown a significant reduction in the production and consumption of ODS. By adhering to the protocol’s guidelines, we have not only mitigated further damage to the ozone layer, but also have recorded gradual improvement.

The astounding success of the Montreal Protocol can be attributed to several key factors. First, a foundation of sound scientific research provided a compelling call to action. Further, the adaptability of this agreement allows newly identified ODSs to be added as research and technologies evolve. Additionally, the Montreal Protocol’s success in fostering global cooperation toward a shared objective makes substantial change possible.

The Montreal Protocol serves as a blueprint for future environmental action. By providing comprehensive framework and ambitious targets and deadlines, this treaty implemented tremendous change. As we look to the future of our planet, let this treaty serve as a reminder of the boundless possibilities when we unite under a shared purpose.

Dedicate a flag to a veteran

By Deborah Klotzman, Granby Lions Club Flag Committee

The tradition of posting American flags in Granby has existed for more than 17 years and has provided a way to remind our citizens of the dedication and sacrifices made by our veterans, our families, friends, and neighbors.

The Granby Lions Club is again offering Granby residents the opportunity to dedicate a flag in memory of a beloved veteran or private citizen. These flags will fly in and around the center of town from just before Memorial Day until Veterans Day. Donations not only enable the Granby Lions Club to continue this tradition, but also assist in the maintenance or replacement of damaged poles, flags and mounting hardware.

Drumrolls

For a donation of $100, your dedication will be placed on a flag pole, and remain there in perpetuity. Up to two dedications per flag is permitted due to flag pole space constraints. Please limit your dedication’s wording to “In memory of (deceased veteran name)” or “In honor of (living veteran name).” You may include the veteran’s service branch. Please email dhkhome1@ gmail.com with any questions. Dedications may be submitted via email, or can be mailed with your check made payable to Granby Lions to: Granby Lions Flag Committee, P.O. Box 191, Granby CT 06035. Include your email or phone number.

Animal Talk

Dr. John Violette, DVM

Reflections

One nice morning in the spring of 1988 I happened to meet up with my neighbor, David Hildreth, at our mailboxes on Day St. Dave was one of the original founders of Citizens for a Better Granby, the non- profit that publishes The Granby Drummer He was a thoughtful, soft-spoken man and all-around great neighbor. On that day, Dave suggested that I write a column for the Drummer on veterinary medicine. How could I say no?

Granby was a more rural town 35 years ago, with many family dairy farms and loads of horses. Our mixed -animal veterinary hospital was one of the largest in the area so there was plenty of material for a monthly article. Back then there was definitely more of a James Herriot approach that included fun anecdotes. The Drummer was a much smaller paper, and it was put together at “paste up” in the Masonic lodge in town. Once a month the volunteers set up the

tables and pulled all-nighters for a few days. I was occasionally late with my hand-written article but our amazing editor Chris Levandowski was always patient and happy to help.

Now the time has come for me to hand over the Animal Talk reins to another veterinarian in our practice. We are delighted to have Monique Fitzpatrick as our newest partner at Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital. Monique has excellent medical skills combined with up-to-date knowledge. The clients and pets love Monique’s calm and caring bedside manner. I am sure that you readers will appreciate a new perspective.

Many thanks to The Granby Drummer for allowing me to be a contributor and to our readers for their interest. Please consider joining the Drummer as a volunteer—it’s a great way to meet folks and enjoy the camaraderie of a job well done!

Many reasons to celebrate May

By Nina Jamison

The beautiful month of May is named after the Roman goddess Maia who oversaw the growth of plants. That seems very appropriate since in the natural world both wild and cultivated flowers are blooming, while birds are singing, swooping and nesting. The green mists in the forests have leafed out and the rich aroma of sun-warmed pine paths reinvigorate the senses. The full moon in May, the month otherwise filled with exuberant observances, holidays and events, is called a Flower Moon.

The first is May Day, with origins in ancient European culture, arriving midway between spring equinox and summer solstice. More recently it is a celebration of workers and a commemoration of the struggles of the Labor Movement. May 4 is Star Wars Day (May the Fourth Be with You). May 5 is celebrated in both the United States and Mexico as Cinco de Mayo (The Fifth of May). While originally commemorating the victory of the Mexican army over the French Empire at the First Battle of Puebla in 1862, it has since become a celebration of Mexican culture on both sides of the border.

12 is Mother’s Day, though this year it shares the date with International Nurses Day and National Nutty Fudge Day. More solemn observances include Armed Forces Day on May 18, where we pay tribute to those currently serving in the U.S. military. May 27 is Memorial Day where we honor the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice in battle.

This year I’m celebrating hope for a kinder, gentler world. Beets are a superfood to help energize your own spring renewal

Piquant Beets

4 medium beets

1 teaspoon sugar

1 Tablespoon vinegar

Salt to taste

1 teaspoon grated onion

2 Tablespoons butter

dash of ground nutmeg

Cook the beets until tender, 25–35 minutes for medium beets or 45–60 minutes for large beets. Immediately run cold water over them and slip off the skins. Chop or cube into small pieces.

Ashley Bristol, of Granby, received the 2024 New England Scholar awarded by the University of Connecticut. This honor is awarded to students who earn a GPA of 3.7 or higher for both the fall and spring semesters of 2023.

May 11 is both Twilight Zone Day and Eat What You Want Day. May

Cook the sauce ingredients together for 5–8 minutes over low heat. Place beets in a serving dish and pour the sauce over them. Serves six as a side dish.

Familiar Faces

By Nicole Muller

Andy Laplante relishes life’s drama

If you have ever shopped at the Granby Cumberland Farms, you have encountered the smiling welcome and kindly service of Andy Laplante. He is a large man in many ways: in his big heart; in his thoughtful, friendly behavior; in his unflappable love of life. He is also a man who hones his talents for his own and others’ pleasure.

Laplante was born in Rockville and spent his early childhood in Florida before moving to Simsbury and later to Granby with his mother.

A lover of English and history, Laplante found his niche in the Granby Memorial High School Drama Club. “I also joined the chess club for something to do until rehearsals started for whatever play we were doing,” says Laplante, a 2004 graduate. “I have a good group of friends that I made through drama.”

Among his high school credits are The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis and The Beverly Hillbillies, The Musical

Following graduation, Laplante started working at McDonald’s in Granby Center. “I have Asberger’s Syndrome, and although I am very high functioning, I can’t drive, so I needed a job that I could walk to,” he says. “At the time, the possibilities were limited.” When McDonald’s closed in 2017, LaPlante assessed his options.

“It took me awhile to find a new job,” he says. “I heard about the benefits Cumberland Farms offered, so I applied, and they hired me. I’ve been there ever since.”

Over the 20 years since high school, Laplante lost his mother to cancer, a blow that set him back. “But my mom loved to see me act, and I enjoy it, so I have kept it up,” he says. A member of the Theatre Guild of Simsbury, he has appeared in Miss Liberty, The Wizard of Oz and A Christmas Carol. He has also participated in The Simsbury Light Opera Company’s productions of Patience (or Bunthorne’s Bride) and Princess Ida

“I took voice lessons for four years with a teacher from the Westminster School in Simsbury,” Laplante says. “I have a good voice, but I wanted to

improve it to increase my chances for more musical roles.”

A self-described “big nerd,” Laplante is a cosplay (costume play) enthusiast. “When I have a new favorite character, I look for the costume on Etsey or eBay and order it,” he says. “When the Theatre Guild of Simsbury did Shrek, I didn’t audition because of work, but I bought the costume.”

That costume was later put to good use when Laplante landed the role of Shrek in Favrah’s (The Arc of the Farmington

Valley) production of Shrek Jr. “I also played the Cowardly Lion when they did The Wizard of Oz,” he says.

When he’s not working, acting or singing, Laplante can be found reading.

“My favorite novel and my favorite musical is Les Miserables,” he says.

“I think that’s the longest book I’ve ever read!” At 1,462 pages, that is an impressive accomplishment. Laplante

put his knowledge of the work to practical use, serving as a consultant on Glastonbury High School’s production of Victor Hugo’s work.

“Les Mis is the last show my mom and I saw on Broadway, so it has a really special meaning,” Laplante says. “I know she’s smiling, knowing that I’m acting and singing again, doing things I love that make me happy.”

Know of a candidate for a future Familiar Faces column? Please email your suggestions and contact information to Nicoleoncapecod@gmail.com

HIGH SCHOOL SHOW WAS A SMASH!

GMHS Dramatic Arts presented the musical Footloose in March to enthusiastic audiences! Photos by Chris Heller

Andy LaPlante, a familiar face to anyone who visits the Granby Cumberland Farms, enjoys lunch on a day off at one of his favorite spots, Antonio’s Restaurant in Simsbury. Photo by Nicole Muller

Connection to nature is central theme of upcoming exhibition

By Kim Pereira

Granby’s Alexander Anisimov is truly a master-of-all-trades artist. From crafting mosaics to painting with oil, from drawing in ink or graphite to collecting driftwood, Anisimov can take the world around us and create thoughtful art pieces.

To Anisimov, being an artist is “just intrinsic.” Exposed to art since a young age, Anisimov has honed his techniques in a variety of mediums—for instance, at the age of 9, he learned how to do darkroom photography from scratch. “I was probably in third grade,” he laughs, “and mixing [chemicals] in the bathroom.” His father, Yuriy Anisimov, was a renowned inlay artist, and as a result, Anisimov has been around artists all his life.

Prior to moving to the United States in 1991, he had already established himself as a true artistic force in Russia. At the age of 20, he met the distinguished painter Ilya Glazunov at the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg. In the museum basement, Anisimov worked on copying the art housed there in order to teach himself new skills.

Beyond his four years of traditional training in the College of Fine Arts, Anisimov was influenced by his conscription into the Russian army. “I traveled giant distances and I saw a lot of different nationalities, different people,” he notes. The army brought him to the Russian-China border, Japan, Kazakhstan and Afghanistan, where he was exposed to Muslim and Indian cultures. “I saw what art meant for them. It was awesome,” shares Anisimov, “[I learned] what they value in art.” He

likens the Muslim murals covering the walls and ceilings of dwellings to the Irish arabesque style, where everything is part of a colorful and intertwined network.

The idea of an intertwined network is central to Anisimov’s work. Walking through nature, he might find himself asking, “Who planted this tree?”

Contemplating the world around us connects us not only to previous stewards of the land, but nature itself. “If you start asking questions, it’s like a network of our life,” he observes, “You think you are separate from nature … [but] you are nature. You’re part of it. You are born out of it.” To Anisimov, humanity is inextricably a part of nature.

Anisimov creates much of his art out in nature. As he says, his studio is “everywhere!” He works outside through storms, rain and snow. “The storms are beautiful!” he proclaims, “The best ideas you get are in the storm. It’s extreme, and you’re cold sometimes, but you know it’s not going to last for days … when you throw yourself in the discomfort, just for a couple hours, it’s beneficial.”

Working outside in extreme cold has allowed Anisimov to experience situations most artists do not. He tells of working outside in the extreme cold in Afghanistan’s mountains one winter, where the paint started to freeze. In this state, he was able to create unique texture effects, using a palette knife, that could not be accomplished at room temperature.

Anisimov’s vast array of life experiences, from painting in rural Afghani

mountains to painting murals at local pizza shops, gave him a wealth of knowledge. To him, training to be an artist “is lifelong.” Throughout his life, he has returned to paintings he completed years ago with new eyes, sometimes adding new paint strokes here and more color there. Apart from being talented in a multitude of mediums, he has also taught himself how to stretch his own canvases and make his own frames.

More recently, Anisimov has started learning about bitcoin and accepting bitcoin as payment for artwork. His upcoming free exhibition, Colours of Life, which runs from May 3 to June 2 at the Granby Art Gallery at 2 Park Place, will be the first in Connecticut to accept bitcoin. Bitcoin reminds Anisimov of a barter system he was part of nearly 20 years ago in Connecticut. Murals he painted at pizza shops and car service shops would be paid for with credit for services at that location. For instance, Anisimov remembers painting the mural at the old Goomba’s Pasta and Pizza in Granby. For his work, he was compensated by having a running tab, up to $250 worth of pizza. To Anisimov, bitcoin operates on a similar principle. “It’s the same, like money,” he says.

new techniques and subjects. He likes to mix and match in order to make the gallery more interesting to attendees. One of his inspirations is surf fishing in Rhode Island, where the waves beat against the rocks at night. “Our blood is kind of the same rhythm … Your blood is pumping. And it’s like watching waves, it’s a close rhythm. And you’re like, why am I so fascinated? Because your rhythm and the other rhythm [matches up].” Anisimov’s vast portfolio of landscape, portrait and abstract artwork is available online at alexanderanisimovstudio.com; his art can also be viewed in person at the Granby Art Gallery at 2 Park Place.

In regard to the upcoming exhibition, Anisimov has been experimenting with

Northern Nurseries Stone & Design

Photo of Anisimov at work submitted by artist.

Women’s Breakfast Group celebrates 20th Anniversary in a royal manner: English Tea and vintage wedding gowns

By Faith Tyldsley

Join Corinne Dickerson and Joan Ducharme on Wednesday, June 5, as they celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Granby’s Women’s Breakfast Group at the Granby Senior Center. An English Tea accompanied by a show of vintage wedding gowns will begin at 8:30 a.m. for 100 registered attendees. The wearing of hats is encouraged. Prizes for eye-catching headwear will be awarded in two categories: the Most Attractive and the Most Creative.

Dickerson is encouraging women to either model their own wedding gowns or to offer them for viewing on mannikins that have been donated for the occasion. In addition, attendees are requested to bring their wedding photos to share in a special exhibition.

Two vintage gowns, lent by Salmon Brook Historical Society, will be on display. One is a brown silk gown with black lace trim worn by Mary Anna Smith for her Oct. 14, 1873 wedding to George Mexcur. The bride and groom were grandparents of Jessica Duncan (1904-1996), a Granby teacher, Wells Road School principal and local resident for 60 years.

Granby Women’s Breakfast Group flourishes

Dickerson and Ducharme, two forward-looking and get-it-done women, knew that Granby men had been meeting monthly for breakfast and a speaker since 1993. Over coffee one day in 2004 they reasoned, “If the men were having a breakfast, why shouldn’t the women have one too?” Twenty years later, they continue to lead the group

that meets monthly at Granby Senior Center.

A committee of six develops a list of programs from September of one year through to June of the next. A “breakfast crew” is enlisted for each program. Since the very first offering, entitled Women’s Health Issues, Dickerson states that there have been more than 200 breakfast programs with atten-

dance growing to a remarkable 80 to 100 women.

The most popular program over the years, according to Dickerson, takes place in early December, when a GMHS musical group (in 2023 it was the Chamber Singers directed by Mindy Shilansky) awakens everyone’s holiday spirit with youthful enthusiasm and festive song. Before the current year winds down to the final program on June 5, James Fergione and Jo-Ann Smith will present Adventures on the Appalachian Trail on May 1. A look back at two recent programs

On a chilly Wednesday morning in March, 60 women filtered into the Senior Center for an 8:30 breakfast. The meeting room was warm and smelled of 175 pancakes keeping toasty in the oven. The pancakes, accompanied by sausage and maple syrup, were served by the breakfast crew. The gathering was noisy and upbeat, one that exuded excitement and expectation.

The program was What’s Cooking with Chef Chris Prosperi, of Metro Bis restaurant in Simsbury. The only man in the room stood by himself at a table up front. Two cast iron pots on portable burners held his unwavering attention. Steam rose about him as he stirred and stirred. Chef Prosperi was creating a pumpkin risotto.

Prosperi entertained his audience with a humorous patter as his risotto evolved. Ending on a high note, he sent 60 portions of pumpkin risotto around the room. In the relative silence, “yums” echoed among the tables. Then the room ever so slowly cleared, with clusters of friends sharing last words on the way to the coat rack.

in Granby at the Milkey and Davis veterinary practice, now known as Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital. In 1979, he started his own practice, specializing in equine medicine. He retired in 2021. Werner recounted myriad anecdotes. The most memorable was the account of his “very first on-my-own farm call.” After a breaking-in period, when he accompanied senior vets for a month, he was deemed ready for his first solo call: the simple task of vaccinating a horse. He stopped at the farmhouse on the way to the barn to announce his presence. The farmwife invited him in for a brief chat. She assured him that the resident cocker spaniel was friendly. He stepped in the door and was nipped on his ankle.

On the way to the barn, he felt a sharp stab in the back of his calf and turned to see a rooster that had spurred him in a hostile act meant to mark barnyardfowl territory. In the barn, Werner’s patient suddenly turned in the stall and kicked out, luckily connecting with the medical supply box rather than Werner himself. Back at his truck, he found two farm cats enjoying the contents of a bag lunch his wife had made for him that morning. He made a few decisions later that day for future calls: go directly to the barn, wear knee-high boots

In April, 45 women were entertained by Dr. Harry Werner who shared Animal Anecdotes from his 47 years as a large animal veterinarian Werner graduated from the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in 1974. He began work Women’s Group cont’d. on p. 19

From left, Corinne Dickerson, Dr. Harry Werner and Jennifer Jalbert, committee member.

Photo by Faith Tyldsley

Wedding gown worn in 1873, courtesy of Salmon Brook Historical Society.

Photo by Faith Tyldsley

Women’s Group cont’d. from p. 18

and buy a metal lunchbox. Werner’s stories were entertaining; his candor and humor made their telling first-rate.

Congratulations to Ducharme and Dickerson and to all who have served on the steering committee and breakfast crew for the past 20 years. Yes, the breakfast and the program are enjoyable. Behind these events, however, lies a concept: Community. For 20 years, the women’s group has created and sustained Community by offering a place where those gathered can learn more about their town, meet old friends and make new ones, and experience the all-important sense of belonging. This is Granby Community at its best.

To register for the May 1 or June 5 programs, call the Senior Center (860844-5350) or log into the schedule section on the Granby Senior Website. The cost is $5.

Head chef Corinne Dickerson (r.) and dedicated helpers prepared a delicious breakfast for the Women’s Group on April 3.

From left: Corinne Dickerson, Marilyn Nystrom, Joan Ducharme, Dr. Harry Werner, Jennifer Jalbert, Pat Olechna, Pat Dryden.

Photo by Faith Tyldsley

Photo by Joan Ducharme

A story of a Granby war hero

By Todd Vibert

On a walk through the Granby Cemetery in Section A, you may notice a monument that’s nearly 15 feet tall. This monument belongs to Richard E. Holcomb, a Granby Civil War hero killed at Port Hudson, La. on June 14, 1863. Holcomb was born near the Turkey Hills section and later moved to Hartford Ave. He was a bright and ambitious man who became an engineer and surveyor. Most of his work took him away from home. He spent nine years building the Panama Railroad and spent some time building the Savannah Bridge over Georgia’s Savannah River. He married in 1853 and had four children. Of the ten years he was married, it’s estimated he spent less than four years with his family.

Holcomb believed strongly in his country and was angered by the South’s secession from the Union. It prompted him to enlist in the Army for three months. He re-enlisted multiple times, each time getting a new rank and more money. Serving with the Connecticut 13th Volunteers, he went to Port Hudson, La. to help repossess the Mississippi River where the South was receiving goods from the west. Control of the Mississippi allowed the North to cut off its supplies. Holcomb arrived in Louisiana as colonel in command of the 1st Louisiana Volunteers, many of them Southerners who opposed their state’s actions and miscreants who joined for the pay and food.

At the war’s outset, President Lincoln needed commanders. Unfortunately for Lincoln, many of the first-rate West Point graduates were fighting for the South. Lincoln appointed several politicians without military backgrounds as generals. Many were Democrats in the

hopes he could persuade the opposition party to support the war. Three such generals were Nathaniel Banks, Benjamin Butler and Dan Sickles.

Among Banks’ first battles was the Shenandoah Valley, where his attempt to trap Stonewall Jackson was outmaneuvered. A few months later, Banks and Jackson tangled again at Cedar Mountain and Banks was defeated again. The public was furious and wanted him out.

Lincoln took the heat and sent Banks to Port Hudson in command of 35,000 troops. One of his subordinates was Richard Holcomb.

The Port Hudson Battle was a 48-day siege, from May 13 to July 8. Banks’ 35,000 troops surrounded General Gardner’s 7,000 troops along the Mississippi River. The Union Navy fired mortars at the Southern troops from the Mississippi and Banks led the ground assault from the other side. On May 27, Banks ordered an attack and the battle lasted 12 hours but the ground forces were unable to advance and penetrate the Confederates. Despite heavy casualties, Banks was determined to win to avoid being embarrassed as he had been against Jackson.

The second attack came on June 14, 1863, and Colonel Holcomb was ready to lead his troops. Holcomb had been in combat before and found it exhilarating. He was determined to beat the South, but as he led his troops into battle, he was shot in the back and killed, presumably by friendly fire.

Holcomb was one of 4,500 Northern casualties in Banks’ Port Hudson Battle compared to the South’s 900. Banks planned to attack again the following month, but the Union’s win at Gettysburg and, a day later, the fall of Vicksburg, were the turning point of the war.

Historical Society News

May 18: Spring Flea Market, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Historical Society, 208 Salmon Brook Street.

If you have any questions or would like a vendor space, please contact Dave Laun at (860) 653-3965 or Todd Vibert at (860) 653-9506.

May 25: Tour the Wilcox House from 10:00 am to noon. See below. June 2: The start of our summer tours. We are open from 2-4 on Sunday afternoons at our main campus on Salmon Brook Street. Closed: June 16, July 7, and September 1.

Captain Sadoce Wilcox House Second Floor Open Soon

Salmon Brook Historical Society’s 1800 Captain Sadoce Wilcox House and 1857 Lyman Wilcox Barn will be open to visitors again this summer. Mark your calendars with the opening dates of May 25th, July 13th, August 17th, and Open Farm Day on September 14th . (The house and barn are at 143 Simsbury Road in the National Register West Granby Historic District.)

This summer’s open house dates will feature access to a restored second floor and attic, with furnishings found in the house that match Sadoce Wilcox’s 1833 estate inventory. The stairways are steep and care must be taken, but volunteers have installed railings and the society has made repairs to deteriorating treads. This house was one of the earliest in West Granby to be a full two stories plus an attic.

When possible there will again be weaving demonstrations on the Wilcox family’s three-century-old loom. Come join us this summer to imagine Granby and New England life in the early 1800s!

Despite the heavy casualties Banks suffered in two battles, he gained one victory when General Gardner surrendered to him on July 8, 1863, in a skirmish following Gettysburg. Banks was assigned to capture Shreveport, La. on the Red River. But 40 miles south of Shreveport, he engaged with Confederate troops led by General Taylor and lost the battle. Banks retreated, Taylor pursued him and they clashed at Blair’s Landing. This time Banks won the skirmish. Then Grant ordered him to return for an attack on Mobile, Ala. Banks was deterred because the water level of the Red River had fallen to three feet and his ships needed at least seven feet to get to Port Hudson and the Mississippi River. Lt. Col. Joseph Bailey, an en-

gineer, started to build a dam to raise the water level; two weeks passed and Grant’s attack on Mobile was delayed.

After Banks’ defeat on the Red River, Lincoln could no longer ignore public outcry. Banks resigned and resumed his role as a U.S. Representative for Massachusetts. Banks had administrative and communication skills, but he lacked the military skills and training to effectively lead his troops. His ineptitude resulted in thousands of deaths, including that of Colonel Richard E. Holcomb.

To learn more about Colonel Richard Holcomb or other Granby soldiers, become a member by calling 860-653-9713 or go online at salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com

Getting to Know Us

Name: Sarah Langdon

Position: Archivist

Lived in Granby: 31 years

Former Occupation: Actuarial analyst and homeschool parent

Sarah Langdon started working at the Society in 2020, assisting Carol Laun on a project to categorize digitized photos. After Laun’s passing, Langdon took on the role of archivist and is responsible for acquiring, organizing, and preserving historically valuable photos and documents for the Society’s archives. She also responds to historical and genealogical information requests. She treasures time with her family including her husband, David, and sons, Tom and Bill. To balance her time in the archives with more active pursuits, Langdon leads a local hiking group.

Colonel Richard E. Holcomb Photos courtesy of Salmon Brook Historical Society.

Above, Richard Holcomb’s monument in Granby Cemetery.

Right, General Nathaniel Banks.

Browse & Borrow

ADULT PROGRAMS

Programs at GPL Main Branch, unless indicated.

Earth 2024: Wednesday, May 8, 6:30–7:45 p.m. Through the long journey from prehistoric to modern times, man’s ingenuity to harness fire and split the atom has defined both us and the planet we live on. We have prospered and grown to levels beyond any other organism in Earth’s history but we have also created great peril for ourselves and the rest of life on Earth. E24 founder Ken Wolslegel examines the issues of humans, biodiversity, ocean life, climate change and more. Register to attend. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries and Granby Land Trust.

Movie Matinee, Oppenheimer: Monday, May 13, 1:30–4:30 p.m. This month’s feature film is a historical thriller/drama about physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer, appointed by Lt. Gen. Leslie Groves Jr. during WWII to work on the top-secret Manhattan Project. Oppenheimer and a team of scientists spent years developing and designing the atomic bomb. Their work comes to fruition on July 16, 1945, as they witness the world’s first nuclear explosion, forever changing the course of history. Register to attend, seating is limited.

Crafters Café, Landscape Felting: Wednesday, May 15, 6–7:30 p.m. Learn needle felting, a creative craft that involves sculpting shapes and figures using wool and special felting needles. Art educator Katherine Tolve guides participants in the technique and offers a folksy landscape project to inspire beginners. Register to attend. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Kinetic Ukes Spring Sing: Saturday, May 18, 2–3 p.m. on the lawn and patio. Music director Jim Lenn leads the much-loved Connecticut ukulele ensemble in a performance featuring timeless songs of the 50s, 60s and 70s. In recognition of Armed Services’ Day, the group will pay tribute by featuring a number of military tunes. Bring your lawn chair, your own musical instruments and your singing voice to join in the fun. Registration requested. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Book Clubs

Books for discussions are available at the library, online and through curbside pickup. Register online or call the library at 860-844-5275 to reserve your seat.

Something About the Author Book Club: Monday, May 6, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Discuss author Anthony Horowitz, one of the most prolific and successful writers working in the UK. His best-selling novel, Magpie Murders, has been adapted into a six-part television drama series. His Alex Rider teen spy series is estimated to

GRANBY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM

granby-ct.gov/157/Library

860-844-5275

GranbyLibrary@granby-ct.gov

Library Hours–Main Branch

Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.

Tuesday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Library Hours–Cossitt Branch

Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday: 1–6 p.m. Saturdays, May 11 and 25: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Registration is required for most library programs. To register, visit granby-ct.gov/Library, and click on “Register for a Program” or call the library at 860-844-5275. To learn more about upcoming programs, sign up for the library’s monthly eNewsletter.

have sold 21 million copies worldwide. He was also commissioned to write two new Sherlock Holmes novels and continuation novels for James Bond. Horowitz writes films, plays and is responsible for creating and writing some of the UK’s most beloved and successful television series such as Midsomer Murders and Foyle’s War. Leading the discussion is John Rusnock. Registration is requested.

Millennials Read: Wednesday, May 1, 6:30–8 p.m. at Talcott Mountain Collective, Simsbury. At this no-stress book discussion, join readers in their 20s, 30s and 40s to talk about current book picks. You do not need to be reading anything specific, so come and fill up your to-beread list. This is a partnership between Bloomfield, Simsbury and Granby libraries and open to all.

Sci/Fi Fantasy Book Club: Wednesday, May 29, 6–7:30 p.m. Discuss Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik, a fantasy novel loosely based on the tale of Rumpelstiltskin, primarily told in the voices of three young women who struggle against strong evil forces in an imaginary medieval eastern European kingdom. The novel was a 2018 finalist for the Nebula Award for Best Novel and a 2019 Hugo Award for Best Novel nominee and won the ALA Alex Award in 2019. Leading the discussion is Jim Gorman.

Registration is requested.

Cossitt Creation Station Makerspace Programs at GPL Cossitt Branch, unless indicated. For adults and teens 16 and older.

Sketchbook Basics: Tuesdays, May 7, 14 and 21, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m. Artist and art educator Douglas Williams leads a three-part series introducing beginners and advanced beginners to sketching. Learn to simplify what you see, create value scales, practice lines and shapes, and understand shading and perspective. Register to attend. A materials list will be provided.

Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Laser cutting Demo and Training Sessions: Choose one session: Tuesday, May 7, 1:30–2:30 p.m. or 4:30–5:30 p.m.; Tuesday, May 21, 1:30–2:30 p.m. or 4:30–5:30 p.m.

Join makerspace technician Brian Klotzbier for a demonstration and training session using the GlowForge Pro laser cutter. Learn to cut, score and engrave on wood, cardstock, acrylic and leather. Upon completion of the class, attendees will be certified to reserve and use the equipment at the Cossitt Creation Station.

Digitizing Demo and Training Sessions:

Choose one session: Thursday, May 9, 1:30–2:30 p.m. or 4:30–5:30 p.m. or Thursday, May 23, 1:30–2:30 p.m. or 4:30–5:30 p.m. Join makerspace technician Brian Klotzbier for a demonstration and training session using equipment that converts old technology into new digital formats. Learn to edit and share VHS home videos, slides, vinyl records, cassette tapes and more. Upon completion of the class, attendees will be certified to reserve and use the equipment at the Cossitt Creation Station.

3-D Printer Demo and Training Sessions:

Choose one session: Tuesday, May 14, 1:30–2:30 p.m. or 4:30–5:30 p.m. Join makerspace technician Brian Klotzbier for a 3D printing demonstration and training session using Bambu Lab X –1 Carbon Combo 3D Printers. Upon completion of the class, attendees will be certified to reserve and use the equipment at the Cossitt Creation Station.

Custom Design Demo and Training Sessions: Choose one session: Thursday, May 16, 1:30–2:30 p.m. or Thursday, May 30, 1:30–2:30 p.m. or 4:30–5:30 p.m. Join makerspace technician Brian Klotzbier for a demonstration and training session featuring sublimation and vinyl cutting using Cricut and Brother equipment.

Upon completion of the class, attendees will be certified to reserve and use the equipment at the Cossitt Creation Station.

KIDS PROGRAMS

Weekly Storytimes

Check library calendar to confirm weekly dates. Unless noted, programs take place at the Main Branch.

Baby Rhyme Time: Tuesdays, May 7, 14, 21 and 28, 10:30–11 a.m. Ages: Birth to 14 months. Babies with their caregivers are invited to join an interactive lap-sit program featuring a story, nursery rhymes, songs and baby sign language. Registration required.

Mother Goose on the Loose: Wednesdays, May 8, 15, 22 and 29, 10:30–11 a.m. Ages: 2–4 years. Young children with their caregivers are invited to an interactive program featuring nursery rhymes, stories and music activities that promote language development, visual literacy, social and emotional skills. Registration required.

Nightfall Stories and Stretch: Thursdays, May 2, 9 and 30, 6–6:30 p.m. Ages 4–7 years. Children are invited to an independent mindfulness program featuring stories, stretches and an interactive activity. Registration required.

Toddler Time: Thursdays, May 9, 16, 23 and 30, 10:30–11 a.m. Ages: 15–24 months. Toddlers with their caregivers are invited to an interactive program featuring a story, nursery rhymes, songs and sign language.

Mini Movers: Fridays, May 14 and 21, 10:30–11 a.m. Ages: 14 months–4 years. Young children with their caregivers are invited to join us for this fun, interactive program featuring songs, dancing, scarves and egg shaker activities.

Meet the Ballerina: Saturday, May 4, 10:30–11:15 a.m. Ages: 3–5 years. Discover the grace and beauty of ballet as our guest shares her experiences and demonstrates some of her favorite moves. You’ll have the chance to ask questions, learn about the art of ballet and even try out a few steps!

Tinker Tuesday: Tuesdays, May 14 and 28, 4–4:30 p.m. Grades: K–2. Young builders can unleash their creativity! We’ll kick off with an exciting story about builders, sparking imaginations before constructing our own towers using Lego® bricks or magnetic tiles. Registration is required.

SimplyArt: Wednesday, May 15, 4–4:45 p.m. Grades: 3–5. Children are invited to join a colorful world with Miss Lori. In this session, children will explore the magic of squiggly art by turning simple squiggles into vibrant masterpieces. Registration required.

SPECIAL EVENT

Memorial Day Luncheon: Thursday, May 30, 12 noon. We will be honoring our veterans and remembering the ones who gave the ultimate sacrifice with a special lunch and entertainment by the one and only, Elderly Brothers. Cost: $8, Granby Senior Center Veterans are free.

LIFELONG LEARNING

To Granby, With Love, Carol Laun’s legacy: Friday, May 17, 10 a.m. Join author Faith Tyldsley as she discusses her motivation to compile and edit To Granby, with Love, a guide to Carol Laun’s history articles as published in The Granby Drummer from 1971–2021. Free.

The Sport of Prohibition: Friday, May 2, 10 a.m. The Prohibition Era began in 1920 when the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution passed. Bootlegging wasn’t new then, but the amendment expanded bootleggers’ markets. Needless to say, the law was difficult to enforce. The competition between the bootleggers producing and transporting illegal liquor and police trying to stop them almost became a sport. Sometimes the sport had a deadly outcome. Free.

TRIPS

See Center Life Newsletter for monthly shopping and Dine & Drive trips.

Hill-Stead May Market: Friday, May 3, depart at 9:30 a.m. May Market is produced with enormous support by The Hill-Steaders, volunteer ambassadors of Hill-Stead, who have supported the museum with fundraising and outreach initiatives for more than 30 years. One of its largest events, this fundraiser supports Hill-Stead’s gardens, grounds and trails. Lunch after at Butchers and Bakers. Cost: $15.

Friendship Tours’ Lexington and Concord: Wednesday, May 22, departs at 7:30 a.m. Visit Orchard House, where the Alcotts lived from 1858 until 1877. The house is most noted for being where Louisa May Alcott wrote and set her beloved classic, Little Women, in 1868 at a “shelf desk’ her father built especially for her. The rooms look very much as they did when the family lived here.

The elegant 1716 Colonial Inn, set on the Concord Village Green, is one of America’s oldest and most enduring country inns. Enjoy a delicious luncheon of chicken piccata with lemon caper butter sauce or Ritz cracker crusted cod with citrus beurre blanc, with potato, seasonal vegetable, salad, dessert and coffee. Notify of meal choice when registering.

After lunch begin a memorable visit with a

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

costumed guide to the birthplace of American Liberty, Lexington, famous for “the shot heard ‘round the world” that began the American Revolution. Ride along historic Battle Road while your guide recounts the exciting events on April 19, 1775. Visit Old North Bridge and Minute Man National Park.

The Peter Pan bus departs from the Senior Center at 7:30 a.m. with an estimated return of 7 p.m. Cost: $145.

ONGOING PROGRAMS

CRT Hot Lunch: Every Tuesday and Thursday, 12–1 p.m. Let someone else do the cooking. Community Café offers a healthy, low-cost lunch for seniors 60+ with 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, May 1,10 a.m.–12 p.m. by appointment. Specializing in Elder Law. Please call senior center to set up an appointment for a free half-hour consultation.

Ask the Realtor: Wednesday, May 8,10 a.m.–12 p.m. by appointment. Granby’s Judy Guarco has worked for 20+ years representing both buyers and sellers with the goal to always be a trusted advisor when navigating the everchanging world of home ownership. Guarco will offer good advice, solid market knowledge, customer service and attention to detail in a free 30-minute consultation.

Cribbage: Fridays, 3–5 p.m. and Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Join this lively group. Experienced play-

ers will assist with refreshing your game play. Free.

Set Back: Tuesdays 1–3:30 p.m. Free. Music Jam, Back in Time: Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Bring your instrument and join in. Music from 60s–80s. Open to any type of musicians. Free.

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

History Revisited: Tuesdays, 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. Free.

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

Women’s Breakfast: Wednesday, May 1 at 8:30 a.m. Cost: $5.

Men’s Breakfast: Friday, May 10 at 8:30 a.m. Cost: $5.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Chair Massage: Tuesdays, May 7 and 21, 10 a.m.–12:45 p.m. by appointment. Bev offers 15-minute chair massages for $10.

Blood Pressure/Blood Sugar Clinic: Thursdays,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.

Senior Center cont’d. on p. 23

Members of the Granby Land Trust Youth Conservation Corps, along with several adult land trust members, came out en force on March 24 to help maintain the trails at the GLT’s Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve in North Granby. The day was cold, and the work was dirty, but that didn’t slow this crew down! They improved the trails, built stone walkways over wet areas, installed and cleaned out water gutters to redirect seasonal waterflow and did general maintenance to improve the trail experience. We are so grateful for our volunteers—especially these kids—for their willingness to spend more than two hours of their weekend giving back to the community. Take a hike at the Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve and check out all they accomplished, and if you see them around town, thank them for their efforts! To learn more about the Youth Conservation Corps, go to granbylandtrust.org

Senior Center cont’d. from p. 22

Healthy Minds: By appointment only: Situations such as the death of a loved one, failing health or strained family relationships can be daunting to face alone. Working with a marriage and family therapist may help you move forward with the better part of life. To schedule a confidential appointment, call 860-844-5350.

EXERCISE PROGRAMS

See Center Life newsletter for program dates and costs.

Gentle Movement: Mondays at 11:15 a.m. Currently in session. This class will gently increase your strength, help your ability to balance and provide stretching to maintain and increase mobility. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

Chair Yoga: Tuesdays at 2:30 p.m. Currently in session. 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. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

Yoga: Thursdays at 4 p.m. Currently in session. Strength building sequences, standing and on the mat. Includes balance and Pilates floor work. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

Chi Gong–Virtual: Wednesdays, 9–9:45 a.m. Currently in session. The practice of Chi Gong helps us to feel grounded, nurtured and relaxed so that the body’s energy can be naturally directed to help our organs function optimally, create flexibility in the muscles, suppleness in the joints and bring balance to our emotions. Beneficial to all skill levels. Instructor, Mary Ellen Mullins.

Line Dancing with Jim: Wednesdays, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Instructor Jim Gregory has been teaching dance full-time for 40 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.

Tai Chi Yang Style 24 Forms 1-6: Wednesdays, 2:45–3:45 p.m. Currently in session. This class is suitable and encouraged for beginners. Tai Chi is a practice that involves a series of slow, gentle, low impact movements, a relaxed, meditative mind set and controlled breathing. People of all ages can benefit from Tai Chi such as improved balance, flexibility and increased energy. The balanced work of Tai Chi can also help reduce inflammation, improve mental health, chronic pain and increase longevity. It takes time and a commitment to learn Tai Chi as the forms are linked together and progressive.

This first session works on Forms 1-6. Instructor, Mary Ellen Mullins.

Tai Chi/Qi Gong: Thursdays at 9 a.m. Currently in session. Continuing the forms learned in previous sessions, this class will move on to learn Forms 9–12 of the Yang style Tai Chi. The first half of class will consist of Qi Gong warmups that are suitable for abilities. Experience in first eight forms required to participate. Instructor, Mary Ellen Mullins.

Everybody’s Exercise: Thursdays, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Suitable for anyone and everyone, this class includes strength and weights, some cardio, balance and flexibility. All movements can be modified for chair or standing. Instructor Mary Root will personalize your routine based off current flexibility, strength, etc.

All about Balance: Thursdays at 2:45 p.m. Currently in session. This class focuses on strength for balance efficiency, such as squats, handheld weight maneuvers and walking drills, as well as core conditioning. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

GLT attends Land Conservation Conference

The Granby Land Trust, a longtime Connecticut Land Conservation

and

included Jon

Trish

CLCC’s 40th

Rick Orluk,

March 23.

and Dave Russell (in photo and joined by CLCC Executive Director Amy Paterson front and center). The conference provides a valuable opportunity for Land Trusts to learn more about current topics and approaches in land conservation best practices for protecting natural places and wildlife habitat as well as the chance to learn from, and network with, fellow Land Trust and other conservation-related organizations. Our attendees returned to Granby energized and armed with new information and ideas. Submitted photos

Council (CLCC) member

supporter, attended the

Annual Conference on

GLT attendees

Sterling,

Percival,

Put Brown

From Calabria, Italy, to Granby: The remarkable journey of Tina Angeli

By Nicole Muller

Come, sit awhile in a tranquil space and hear the story of Clementina “Tina” Angeli’s remarkable leap of faith. Angeli was born in the Southern Italian town of Calabria. When she was two years old, she began receiving messages from the spiritual world. “A beautiful lady came to me,” Angeli says. “She had no wings and was veiled, with dark, wavy hair. This happened right after my one-year-old sister died. I was too young to understand what this vision meant, but it’s something you never forget.”

When Angeli was 12, her father, who was struggling financially, brought his family to the U.S., seeking a better life. “He was one of many who believed in the American Dream, and he was a U.S. citizen, born in Bronx, N.Y.,” Angeli says. “His mother brought him back to her hometown of Calabria when he was two.”

Angeli attended public schools, learned English, but remained bilingual. At age 16, she returned to Italy, where she was married, but later returned to Connecticut, where she raised her two daughters and earned a degree in architectural drafting. For 26 years, she worked for the State of Connecticut in Hartford, most recently with the Commission on the Arts. In 1984, she moved to Granby. It was in 2005 that Angeli had a vision that inspired her to build a labyrinth that would bring people to her property

in search of healing and peace. “It was something I had to do, a nudge, so I kept putting money aside for it,” Angeli says. “I’m a psychic medium. The nudge was one of my spiritual two-by-fours. I had my labyrinth built on a quarter-acre that was all weeds and a leaching field. Although I had been accumulating a lot of stones, 14 tons more were brought in to create my labyrinth, which three people worked on for a week. Once it was finished, I had a great feeling of relief and satisfaction.” Angeli’s labyrinth is the largest such structure in Connecticut.

The labyrinth is intended to heal... body, mind, spirit. It is a place of quiet solitude that draws many to walk its 11 circles, which takes about 30 minutes, depending on one’s pace. Surrounded by flowering plants, a pond and small fountain, the labyrinth provides a calming interlude to clear one’s mind, contemplate life and heal. People who come often leave items of special meaning at the foot of the central angel statue: a red dog collar; a plastic statue of St. Joseph; a bronzed baby shoe; a set of yellow plastic ducks; a fairy statue. Chairs and benches invite visitors to sit, to clear their heads, to whisper to a lost loved one, to heal.

“The man who cleaned my oil burner brought a quartz rock that he and his girlfriend found together,” Angeli says. “He wanted it here to bless their relationship, which had just ended, so

they could both peacefully go on with their lives.”

Angeli says that the angel who first visited her in Calabria has been to Granby.

“She came to me here, over my garage,” Angeli says. “It was early April, around 9 p.m. I was coming home from work in Hartford, and it was dark. I was struggling to find my keys, when a voice, coming from all around me, said, ‘Turn around.’ I froze. The angel’s wings stretched three or four times the length of our four-car garage! She told me her name is Naomi, and then she asked, ‘Is this big enough for you?’ The night before, I had watched a spiritual TV show and learned that the energy of your spirit is equal to how important you are in life. I sometimes don’t think my spiritual work is important, that I’m small, and I get down. I guess she could feel my frustration.

“She said, ‘You chose this work, you’re an instrument, all you have to do is trust, and we’ll do the rest.’ She

gave me the confidence to allow the voices of so many lost loved ones to come through me.”

When Angeli was writing the book that explores how her angel visits and near-death experiences have shaped her life, guiding her through poverty, illness, anger and abuse, her daughter Olivia was four years old. “We were baking cupcakes, and I told Olivia that I was writing a book but had no title for it. Olivia started whispering, and then she turned to me and said, ‘They said to call it We Are Angels.’ I have two daughters and four granddaughters. We have lots of female energy.”

Angeli self-published We Are Angels in 2021. It is available at the Granby Public Library or from weareangels. yolasite.com and draft2digital.com

If you would like to visit the S.O.U.L. Center Labyrinth, please email a request to cangeli@cox.net to arrange a day and time and to receive directions to Angeli’s home.

Tina Angeli spends a quiet moment in the S.O.U.L. Center labyrinth that she built 19 years ago on her Granby property. Photo by Nicole Muller

A perfect pairing of food and fellowship

By Karen Young

As a long-time Granby resident, I have frequently driven past the weathered sign reading “All Welcome Free Community Dinner Every Wednesday” in front of the community house on the south campus of Granby Congregational Church, 242 Salmon Brook Street, without much thought. I figured it was a church potluck or new member recruitment dinner. As I recently discovered, it is so much more.

The church is home to the Waste Not Want Not (WNWN) Community Kitchen, a food bank that provides hot meals, groceries and, perhaps most importantly, a beacon of friendship and community for many isolated people. For more than 15 years, its compassionate leader, Sandy Flagg, has marshalled 50+ volunteers to run this multifaceted operation. I met Sandy when she recently spoke at the Granby Women’s Breakfast. She told us that her volunteers feel that they get back as much as they give. She encouraged us to experience the joy in volunteering by stopping by to help out. So, a few days later, my friend Tracy James and I took her up on her offer. When I arrived at the big white church, I noticed volunteers decorating planters in the entranceway. Volunteers Dave Langdon and Warren Miltmore were wheeling large boxes of donated food. Once inside, there was a flurry of activity in the large kitchen with volunteers Gene Juliano, Raine Pedersen, Marge Fiore and Barbara Healy making food for more than 120 people. Volunteers wore black aprons with the

Waste Not Want Not logo that were donated by the Simsbury Granby Rotary Club and expertly made by AdEmbroidery of East Granby. A trainee from the Granby B.E.A.R. Transition Academy was peeling and cutting apples for homemade applesauce. Volunteers Lynn Lochhead, Pam Jones and others were sorting produce for animals/composting, sauce or distribution. Volunteer Patty Sansone, a proud perfectionist, was precisely cutting and arranging cakes and pies for the dessert tray in the style of a fine restaurant. Volunteer Lynn Klumb, with the eye of a skilled decorator, put themed tablecloths and seasonal floral arrangements on the long 12-foot tables. Klumb carefully placed each arrangement to ensure the tables look and feel like home. Miltmore set up a beverage station complete with coffee, hot and cold tea, water and a “mystery” fruit punch I was reluctant to try. All volunteers relished their roles and did their jobs with flourish. There is a focus to live up to the organization’s name as very little is wasted.

WNWN gets food donations from FoodShare, Stop & Shop, Fitzgerald’s, Big Y, Starbucks, Blossoming Acres of Southwick and others. Volunteers make daily trips to the stores in their own vehicles since the WNWN van became inoperable. If there is a large donation, volunteers make multiple trips to the same place. The volunteers must weigh and document the contributions as the stores can deduct charitable donations.

Around 3 p.m. the patrons arrived with two shopping bags each. There is no

charge for the food and meal, but some people made a small donation. Shoppers can choose from donated items that line the perimeter of the room. There were lots of breads, snacks, WNWN-made chunky applesauce, dairy products, deli items, frozen meats, produce and desserts. Oversized Costco coolers were filled to capacity with food products organized by type. There were also donated clothing and household items.

Student athletes from Northwest Catholic High School carried the shopping bags to the patrons’ cars. Most people returned from the car drop off for the sit-down meal. Those who wanted to shop and run were encouraged by Sandy Flagg to stay and meet others.

Pianist Royal Griffin played light jazz and showtunes with gusto during the meal. He explained that his signature move was to add some additional chords in the coda to end each tune with oomph!

When the meal was served, guests entered the kitchen to have their plates filled with their choice of healthy food. People were encouraged to eat their veggies. On this night, the main course was chicken breast and asparagus served over rice with a green salad and a fresh fruit cup. Patrons helped them-

selves to dessert once the main meal was finished. By the end of the night, 120 meals were served, and five tons of food was distributed. Some meals were given for take-out.

Biweekly, a local beautician gives free haircuts and shaves as she understands the value of human touch. I witnessed how pleased people were with their new hair style. One man looked years younger.

Since that first day, I have looked forward to my Wednesdays at the Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen. I recently encouraged my fellow Simsbury Granby Rotarians to volunteer, and they, too, experienced how a group of resolute volunteers can do amazing things!

Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen is a 501(c)3 not for profit organization. It is currently seeking funds for a used minivan to support food distribution. All donations—100 percent—go for materials and supplies. Please mail checks to: Waste Not Want Community Kitchen, P.O. Box 606, Granby, CT 06035.

If you know people in need, encourage them to join us on Wednesdays or contact Sandy Flagg at 860-550-2219. New volunteers are welcome too. It is fun and rewarding!

Sandy Flagg, founder and director of WNWN, above, and volunteers at right. Submitted photos.

Solar eclipse brings community together at library

Families, friends and enthusiasts from all walks of life gathered on the lawn at the Granby Public Library, equipped with solar glasses, to see the celestial spectacle of a solar eclipse on April 8. Excitement filled the air as the moon slowly began its journey across the face of the sun, gradually dimming its bright rays. “This is an incredible opportunity for us to come together

as a community and witness the wonders of the universe,” remarked Amber Wyzik, director of library services. “It’s not just about the eclipse itself, but about sharing this experience with our neighbors and fostering a sense of community.”

As the eclipse reached its peak, casting a surreal twilight over the landscape, sounds of wonder and amazement were heard from the crowd. For a few fleet-

ing moments, the community stood united in awe of the cosmic spectacle unfolding above. As the last traces of the eclipse faded and the sun emerged once again, the people dispersed, carrying with them memories of a shared experience that will be cherished for years to come.

Copy and photos submitted by Granby Public Library

Some of the many community members who watched the April 8 solar eclipse from the library lawn.

Senior center and library staff worked together to hand out solar eclipse viewing glasses.

Submitted by Bryan Moreau

Granby’s own Good Company Theater presented its spring production of Murder by Indecision in April with more than 250 patrons enjoying this Agatha Crispy farce during evening and matinee performances at the Granby Congregational Church, South Campus. The production team is already working on a fall musical.

Starting from left front: Taryn Poe/Victoria Greedly, Krista Krupa/Sophie Greedly Back: Bob King/Niles Stern, Madison Bailey/William Greedly, Ray Pinault/Ken Steele

Starting from left front: Madison Bailey/William Greedly, Nick Parisi/Victor Greedly, Carol Cisek/Miss Maple Back: Patricia O’Connor/Penelope Biggles, Bob King/Niles Stern, Ray Pinault/Ken Steele

Linda Slozak/Agatha Crispy

Submitted photos

Rain doesn’t deter farmers

April showers are raining down as I write this—actually, another downpour today—and you may think this dampens activity at the farm but you would be mistaken! On the land, Farmer Joe has begun to reassemble his crew, the greenhouses are being converted from winter greens to summer beans (and more) and CSA sales remain open (but not for much longer, so sign-up now).

Our trail maintenance activity is kicking into high gear, with lots of repairs

needed after the winter storms. Thank goodness for volunteers. Meanwhile, the Friends’ summer events are in the planning stages, while Fresh Access partners are anticipating the first distributions in June. Read on to learn more and mark your calendars. Submitted by Jenny Emery CSA shares still available!

June 11 launches another season of the Holcomb Farm CSA, with 20 weeks of fresh produce for you to pick up at your convenience, Tuesday through Saturday at the Holcomb Farm CSA barn on Simsbury Road. Bring your kids and show them where their veggies come from. Eat local while you can. Help keep these fields farmed and fruitful, free of chemicals and pesticides. Experience the flavor of Holcomb Farm. CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture—a smart way for consumers to buy local, seasonal food directly from a farmer. It’s cost-effective, it’s delicious and, at Holcomb Farm, it’s free of chemicals. Full shares (more than enough for a family) are $38.50/week and half shares (more than enough for a couple) are $20/week when paid by cash or check. Get yours, while they last, at holcombfarm.org/joincsa

Thanks to Lost Acres Vineyard

Before we look to our exciting summer of events, let’s look back with thanks for the great Spring Farmers’ Market at the Vineyard, where the Friends of Holcomb Farm joined many local agricultural partners in providing local products for our friends’ and neighbors’ various spring holiday tables. Fresh greens from our greenhouses taste that much better in late-March New England.

Plant Sale & Mushroom Log Clinic

It’s May, and that means the greenhouses are full of beans and the barn is readying for the annual plant sales. The first, May 10 and 11, just in time for Mother’s Day, will include coldtolerant plants including flowers, herbs, kale and more. The second, May 24 and 25, offers all of those that remain, plus

warmer weather plants, like tomatoes, peppers and melons. The Barn Farm Store will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on all four days, but don’t wait until the last minute, as we could sell out of some of your favorites.

New this year: Granby’s own Andy Griffin of RMS Growers will conduct make-your-own shiitake mushroom log clinics at the barn during the plant sales on Saturdays, May 11 and May 25, from 12 to 2 p.m. This experience includes a 30-minute presentation on the process and then a hands-on workshop in which each registrant will “drill and fill” their own log to take home. With good management, these logs will produce fresh shiitakes to harvest for up to several years. Griffin has been using oak logs sourced locally to grow his shiitakes, Holcomb Farm cont’d. on p. 29

Hanna Malzenski engages with eager customers at the Lost Acres Vineyard Spring Farmers market, where our spring greens were in great demand.

Photo by Shirley Murtha

Andy Griffin and friends demonstrate the process of drilling, plugging, and sealing logs, promising a shiitake mushroom harvest two to three times a year for three to four years.

Photos by Jenny Emery

which we sell in the Farm Store; they have become so popular we can barely keep them in stock.

The process of inoculating the logs with mushroom spawn may seem simple, but the quality of the log and spawn on the front end, and moisture management of the log over the long term, is the key to your success in harvesting pounds of fresh shiitakes for months and years to come. That is where Griffin’s expertise comes in. And, Andy is donating all proceeds after costs to the Fresh Access program, which provides food we grow to people in need, freeof-charge.

Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. Go to holcombfarm.org to secure your spot for $40. With the right nurturing, the value of the mushrooms you will harvest from your log should far exceed the cost of the clinic.

Tackling invasives on the trail

Long-time board member and stewardship committee co-chair Eric Lukingbeal tells us more about the ongoing work involved in the development and maintenance of the Holcomb Tree Trail, making it the inviting public resource that it is.

Readers who have been to the Holcomb Farm in West Granby may have seen people carrying simple tools like shovels and saws, trudging up the hills in all sorts of weather. Readers may have wondered who these people are, and what they are doing. Answering these questions requires a bit of background.

The mission of the 30-year-old nonprofit Friends of Holcomb Farm is brief—“To preserve, promote and utilize an historic New England working farm.”

In October 2022, the town, which came to own the farm through benefactors Tudor and Laura Holcomb, conveyed a conservation easement to the Granby Land Trust, which prohibited all development or subdivision on 277 of the Farm’s 312 acres. At the same time, the town entered a new lease and use agreement with the Friends of Holcomb Farm. One of the terms of the lease calls on the Friends to “manage the open space, fields, meadows and woodlands, including the development and maintenance of an arboretum.”

The Friends’ management responsibilities are carried out by a Stewardship Committee of the board, plus volunteers. The first 16 trees in the arboretum were planted in October 2018. Now, more than 100 trees have been planted, and

there are almost three miles of mowed paths around the trees and fields. These paths are the Holcomb Tree Trail. Planting, watering, mulching, installing deer protection and caring for the trees—not to mention labeling them and developing educational plaques—is all done by volunteers. But the most timeconsuming work is controlling invasive plants. Most folks who have lived in New England for a while know that the single biggest change to the rural landscape is the dramatic increase in invasive plants.

Invasive plants are successful in outcompeting natives for several reasons. First, they were brought and spread by people who thought they were pretty or useful. Japanese knotweed, multiflora rose, burning bush, barberry, and Oriental bittersweet all served decorative ends. Autumn and Russian olive grew quickly and made impenetrable hedgerows to house livestock. State agencies even

gave it away free to farmers. The second reason invasives succeeded is that they had no natural enemies here. It is a rare Granby house lot that does not have at least some invasive plants.

The result is that much of New England is infested with invasives. At Holcomb Farm, the three most prevalent invasives are Oriental bittersweet, multiflora rose, and Japanese barberry. The bittersweet grows fast, climbs trees and even strangles smaller ones. Bittersweet can take down very large trees if weighed down by ice and snow. The vines can reach 60 feet or more and can be several inches thick. Multiflora rose has pretty pink and white blooms, but quickly becomes a nine-foot-high mass of thorns in a few years. Barberry has attractive fall foliage, but also provides ideal habitat for mice, the favorite target of Lyme disease-carrying black legged ticks. Tick density is highest in barberry thickets.

Back to our original question: the people readers may see carrying tools are engaged in controlling invasives. Mechanical means are used where possible. Chemical sprays are not used. Volunteers use saws, axes, loppers, clippers, shovels, pry bars, weed whackers and power mowers. Sometimes, several volunteers are needed to pull bittersweet vines out of trees, releasing the trees from vines which will eventually kill them. Many of the scenic Eastern red cedars that dot the Holcomb landscape were once infested with vines.

For really big infestations, the Friends have hired a contractor with specialized invasive removal equipment to take down infested trees in hedgerows. The work is endless, as the invasives are wellestablished here, and the birds spread the seeds. Still, most of the work is done by

SAVE THE DATES

May 10–11 and 24–25: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Plant sales at the Holcomb Farm CSA and Farm Store Barn

May 11 and 25: 12–2 p.m. Mushroom Log Clinic at the Holcomb Farm CSA and Farm Store Barn. Register at holcombfarm.org

May 19: 12–1 p.m. Friends of Holcomb Farm Annual Members Meeting at the Holcomb Farm North Barn

May 20: 7 p.m. Friends’ State of the Farm Presentation to Board of Selectmen

June 1 (rain date June 2): 10 a.m. Trails Day Hike at the Holcomb Tree Trail

June 11: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. CSA launch and Farm Store opening

Aug. 24: First Ever Holcomb Hoe-Down Community Event at the North Barn

volunteers using simple tools. The goal is to keep the fields and trails clear and to gradually expose the historic stone walls separating the fields. Some readers may have noticed recently cleared stone walls, visible from Simsbury Road. Our volunteer efforts have gotten better organized over the years. We now have a volunteer corps of 30 or so folks. We have monthly workdays on the third Saturday morning of the month, for two hours, weather dependent. Usually, eight to 12 volunteers show up. Volunteers must be prepared for ticks and poison ivy, as both are common year-round. Smaller projects involving one or two people are also undertaken.

We can always use more volunteers. Please drop a note to kadrle@holcombfarm.org if you would like to be added to our stewardship volunteer list. You will receive emails about workdays and can show up if interested and available.

Eric Lukingbeal with a huge bittersweet stem that he wrestled out of a tree at Holcomb Farm. Photo by Sally King

Got pollinators?

The signs are all over town, as Granby residents celebrate the essential roles that bees, birds and bugs play in the health and vitality of our world.

Last year, Granby’s Conservation Commission sponsored a contest for the sign design; the winner was Granby high school student Griffin Parrow, pictured here, because “making change starts with raising awareness, and I thought these signs would be the perfect way to achieve that.”

After his GMHS graduation this spring, Griffin heads to New York to pursue a BFA in musical theatre, where he hopes to “explore the intersection of art and activism, creating work that pushes boundaries and sparks enlightening conversations.”

The last 20 signs are looking for homes. You can get one for your yard by contacting the commission via its page on the town website. Contributions of $5 to help cover costs are welcome.

Submitted by The Granby Conservation Commission

Help Wanted - Building Services Assistant

1:30pm-9pm for our Health Center. Assigned cleaning tasks in resident and common areas. Emptying trash and recyclable items. Cleaning of wheelchairs and equipment as needed. Delivery of supplies to resident areas. Full benefits along with regular schedule.

Call McLean, Simsbury, 860-658-3724. EOE.

NOT WANTED

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

By David Desiderato

Buying soil or plants? Read this first!

Today, there are two kinds of gardeners. Gardener one has experienced an overwhelming, sickening infestation of jumping worms—shown here in a file photo.

Gardener two has not—yet.

There’s plenty we can do to throw obstacles in the path of this explosively expanding new invasive threat. (See the detailed description in my October 2023 column on the Drummer website or at GranbyInvasivePlants. weebly.com)

In May, the poppyseedsize cocoons, deposited by adult worms before they died in the fall, hatch after a string of days higher than 50 degrees. The hatchlings devour leaves, mulch and anything else they find in the top few inches of soil. By summer, they are large, energetic, snake-like wigglers with a distinctive milky band near their heads.

Buying soil, compost, mulch?

Ask vendors if they can ensure their soil is free of jumping worm cocoons. Phone calls to a sample of nearby soil suppliers found not one supplier aware of and taking appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of jumping worms.

Buying or exchanging plants?

There’s no chemical cure at this time, though panicked researchers are working hard to find one. Dropping live worms one by one in a bucket of water with a bit of dish detergent kills them right away. It’s gross but worth it: each mature adult produces 100 more for next year.

Ask nurseries and other plant sources what they do to guarantee plants are free of the nearly invisible cocoons. Unfortunately, the only way to be sure is to remove and wash all the soil off the roots, purify the removed soil and replant in worm-free soil. Purify soil.

Whether you buy soil or wash it off purchased plants, here’s how to make it worm-free. Lay out plastic sheeting on a driveway in full sun. Spread the soil to a depth of less than six inches. Spread a second layer of clear plastic over the soil and—most important—fold and tape the two layers together all the way around so the worms cannot escape the heat. Leave it to steam and roast in the sun for several days. Soil heated to higher than 105 degrees over time kills the worms and destroys the cocoons.

Crazy, huh?

Yup. But taking these precautions might allow you to be Gardener #2. And that will make all the difference.

Griffin Parrow with his winning sign, submitted photo

The Garden Corner

By Cindy Dixon

Prepping new seedlings for moving outside

Hello garden friends. The month of May brings longer days and warmer evenings. The sounds of peepers and birds fill our days and nights with song, and many are thinking about planting gardens and moving indoor starter plants outside.

Many of us will start seedlings indoors to get a head start on the growing season, but one very important process must not be overlooked. The “hardening off” of plants.

To harden off young plants started indoors is very important because they have adapted to the indoor environment and could experience shock when brought outdoors. Wind, extreme temperature change, direct exposure to the sun and rain can stress plants, making them susceptible to sun scald, disease and root rot.

and plants outside in a protected area away from direct sunlight and wind for one hour, and then bring them back inside. Continue to increase outdoor exposure each day until they have been out for a full day. Now they are ready to be outdoors day and night, as long as it remains above 45 degrees. Some cold climate plants will harden off more quickly than other plants, such as kale, lettuces and spinach.

All plants need that hardening off process, including vegetables, flowering plants, greenhouse hangers and herbs, even plants purchased from a nursery. I recommend seven to 14 days to acclimate your plants. Here’s how. Once the temperature is consistently above 50 degrees, and the threat of frost is past, start by bringing seedlings

Your plants will appear stronger, greener and sturdy by the end of your hardening off process, and it is time to plant them into the garden or prepared pots. I like to transplant my plants on a cloudy day so the soil doesn’t dry out too quickly. Be sure to give them a nice drink of water and fertilize them regularly for maximum growth.

New England weather can be truly unpredictable so be sure to cover your plants should there be any threat of frost. Good luck with your new plants, and be sure to give them lots of care. You will be rewarded with bountiful produce and mounds of beautiful blooms for months to come.

Next month we will discuss organic insect control and diseases.

Mary’s biscuits are the best ever

By Judy Guarco

A Granby legend, Mary Werbitzkas proudly lived, worked and cooked for one of Granby’s original farms on Barndoor Hills Road for several decades. When I was growing up in Granby 4-H, one of our service projects was to provide holiday treats and entertainment at Holly Hill Nursing Home in Simsbury where Mary was the program director.

As a young girl, I was so impressed by Mary’s enthusiasm and delight in life. As an adult, I was privileged to witness Mary grow old so gracefully, finding delight where she could. Though she passed away 20 years ago, I am proud to honor her legacy.

And yes, these truly are the best biscuits ever, simple and easy and delicious as shortcake for all the fruits of summer—or with jam for breakfast!

Ingredients

3 cups flour

2 sticks of butter or margarine

½ cup sour cream

1 large egg

¾ cup milk

4 teaspoons baking powder

½ cup sugar

1 teaspoon salt

Directions

Put together like a pie crust—just mix it together by hand or with a mixer. It will be gooey and sticky. Pat into a 9 by 13 greased pan and bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes. Enjoy!

“Providing a safe celebration for Granby’s graduating Seniors”

Supporting a Caring Community since 1960

Granby Community Fund supports the Safe Grad Party - held each year and organized by Granby Parents for a Safe Graduation.

Springtime is for hanging out

Bear cubs that were born in January are now tiny bundles of energy and curiosity. They’re leaving their dens and will be trailing mom through your neighborhood and across roads. Keep an eye open for them, stop your vehicle and give the little laggards time to catch up with mom before you move on. Submitted photo

June 2024 deadlines

ADS: Monday, May 6 at noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, please leave a message.

Email: ads@granbydrummer.org

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

Email: editor@granbydrummer.org

WORK DATES: May 6 to May 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