Granby Drummer | November 2019

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Volume L, No. 3 • November 2019

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2019 Board of Education Forum Recap

By Maddie Kidd, Kaite Simpson, Catherine Mydosh, Sophie Austin, Ellie Fiorentino On Sept. 24, at 7 p.m., a Board of Education Forum was conducted in the Granby Memorial High School Auditorium by Mr. Dombrowski’s Honors Civics Class. The candidates who participated in the forum were Jenny Emery, Mark Fiorentino, Lynn Guelzow, Rosemarie Weber, Monica Logan, Christine Peaslee, and David Peling. These candidates discussed topics including school budget, equity, superintendent process, relations with town boards, and school safety.

Throughout the forum, the candidates agreed upon several topics regarding musical literacy and foreign languages at the elementary level, prioritization of extracurriculars, rigor of curriculum, and the superintendent hiring process.

However, there were discrepancies in some areas of discussion. was universal Pre-K. Select candidates believed that in an ideal society, with an unlimited budget, this should be offered, while others disagreed and felt that it should never be offered. Emery articulated that she would be “very surprised if the board doesn’t look to the state for federal guidance in getting an education for the kids.” She also connected this

issue to the implementation of full day kindergarten, saying “we thought then we couldn’t afford it, but now that we have it, I don’t think anyone up here or running for board of education would want to remove full day kindergarten.”

Following this, Guelzow stated that the board needs to support the programs already in place and use the available money to expand existing programs before launching additional programs such as universal pre-K. On the discussion of supporting students who are looking to jump into vocational studies directly following high school rather than college, Logan particularly articulated her viewpoint.

In an interview directly following the forum, she stated, “I think it’s very important to start a little younger than high who are looking for something else.”

While other candidates generally agreed with Logan’s statement, none shared the same emphasis. She adamantly encouraged improvement in communication between employers looking for vocational workers and students. Other candidates, including Fiorentino and Emery, stated that there are programs and opportunities for these students, yet agreed with Logan that improvement is necessary. Furthermore, Guelzow expressed similar views on the need for improvements, and hopes

Forum Recap cont’d. on p. 3

GMHS Performing Arts presents James and the Giant Peach Granby Memorial High School Performing Arts is pleased to announce its fall production of James and the Giant Peach on Nov. 7 and 8, at 7 p.m. and Nov. 10, at 2 p.m. Tickets for the production are $10 for seniors and students, $12 for adults

Inside Granby Land Trust Art Show 17

Runner Lizzy Cappelli ....... 27

Granby Ed. Foundation...... 23

Cossitt Library History ...... 28

Farewell to the fleeting fall foliage Photographer Jay Harder captured this brilliant autumn scene in Granville, Mass., at the edge of an apple orchard.

Keeping Granby fiscally strong

By Michael B. Guarco, Jr., Chair, Board of Finance work contemplates enough negative impact from the state aid reductions and cost shifting. This individual was the only one to show at either of the two a candidate nor is politically connected.

He wondered whether he can afford to stay in town over time. This is really a Connecticut question as much as it is a Granby question. Elsewhere in this issue another person questions whether more should be spent on education and how that might be funded. Such questions highlight the many faceted considerations and perspectives we, as citizens, and those serving as board members, need to contemplate as we ultimately look to balance the needs of the community with a sensitivity to taxpayers’ pockets.

The capital planning work done this past spring is intentionally a conservative outlook at how capital and operating expenditures may come together against revenues and, in particular, our property taxes. While not the “worst case,” it is not intended to present a rosy picture.

Voters need both eyes open when voting. As stated numerous times at the public meetings and in the Drummer, the assumptions and inputs built into the planning work were selected to inject an abundance of caution within the process, with the stated intent being to work not at, but within, the parameters of the plan.

In the past three decades the Boards of Selectmen, Finance, and Education have three times come together to produce and then commit to, and adhere to, a multi-year capital plan – to work within its parameters and limitations. In each case, the impact on mill rates was less than projected. Once again this year, the boards signed on to work to manage the combined operating and capital numbers so that overall and over time they fall within, not at, the parameters of the plan and, in particular, the mill rate bottom line.

Anything to the contrary is a fabrication and contrary to the historical record.

From where I sit as chair of the Board of Finance, I look to keep the boards working within the overall parameters – not necessarily at them. While over time some components may be higher and others lower, the goal and commitment is to bring in the bottom line mill rate changes within, not at, the plan projections.

Built into the planning scenario is what

Keeping Granby Strong cont’d. on p. 6

Photo by Peter Dinella

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The Granby Drummer

november 2019

TOWN OF GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES Sept. 18, 2019 Meeting

Present Board Members: Jenny Emery, Mark Fiorentino; Lynn Guelzow, Sarah Thrall, Rosemarie Weber, Brandon Webster, and Dwaritha Ramesh and Jack DeGray (Student Representatives).

Absent Board Members: Melissa Migliaccio I. Administrative Reports I.A. Superintendent’s Announcements Interim Superintendent Mark Winzler welcomed Jack DeGray, a Junior,as the new BOE Student Representative. He also welcomed Julie Groene, assistant principal at the high school, and Jacky Paton, high school science teacher, who are here to present for Schools in the Spotlight.

The district participated in Sandy Hook Promise Safety and Assessment and Intervention (SAI) training. SAI is a national evidenced-based violence prevention program which establishes and trains multidisciplinary teams/school safety teams within schools to identify, assess and respond to threats of violence.

Student Representative Reports Mark Fiorentino introduced BOE Student Representative Jack DeGray and stated that the BOE expects student representatives to not only report on the high school but to also be involved and ask questions. Fiorentino asked Jack to introduce himself to the board. DeGray stated he feels he will be able to contribute his peers’ ideas and thoughts to the board. He said that he takes a variety of classes ,including AP and Honors classes, as well as plays basketball, lacrosse and soccer. He also plans on joining the Spanish National Honors Society and the

Model UN Club this year. He gave an update to the board as follows: All fall sports are undefeated so far. There are 12 less students participating in fall sports this year vs. last year; however, student enrollment is down by 80 students so it is actually 42 percent of the student body participating this year and 39 percent participated last year.

Business Manager’s Report Business Manager Anna Robbins presented the June 2019 and July/August 2019 statement of accounts.

For June 2019, the results were as anticipated with special education expenditures unfavorable $668K and regular education expenditures favorable $348K.

stated these statements of accounts were reviewed in the Finance Subcommittee Meeting and the board will act on an end-of-year transfer later in the meeting.

Schools in the Spotlight High School Assistant Principal Julie Groene and Director of Guidance Jacky Paton, high school science teacher, and a couple of high school students spoke about the Summer College Connections trip that took place over the summer. Groene stated the tour was held July 9-12 this year. She said that students who take the time to go on this tour really put themselves in the driver’s seat and are able to articulate what they are looking for in a college. Twenty-two students attended this year in Grades 10-12 with eight of those

budget for FY19 and were forecasted with almost 100 percent accuracy. The additional appropriation for $320K was needed to balance the budget for FY19.

aid as well as transportation (for Hartford students) was offered to students who wanted to attend. Over 225 students have attended this program over the past 11 years.

Spencer Bennett, a junior, attended this year and said the tour gave him a great sense of what to expect with the application process as well as what

largely due to savings in vocational and magnet school tuition as well as savings in transportation line items.

For FY20, the BOE is opening with a negative forecast of $52K. Special education expenditures education variance is due to the net change in outof-district placements for students whose needs have changed since the budget was prepared. Robbins $15K for tuition from other towns. Excess cost funding is lower than anticipated. Although out-of-district costs for special education are higher than budgeted, fewer students are meeting the stop loss limits. Jenny Emery

Camilleri said she was not sure what she wanted out of a college and was very excited to learn of this tour.

The tour helped her realize that she would like to go to a public college vs. a private college.

Both Alex and Spencer stated the tour should be better promoted next year because students do not seem to know about it. Paton said she has done this tour for 11 years and this is not only a tour of schools but a seminar because much discussion takes place regarding the college process. She spoke about the advertising of the program: students

have advertised the program through the Summer Enrichment Academy; by having students walk around to advisories; students also received e-mails about the program and mailings about the program were sent home. Groene noted that the alumni panel is a great highlight of the week for students to speak to Granby alumni who are currently attending college.

Consent Agenda Minutes A motion was made by Jenny Emery and seconded

by Brandon Webster to adopt the consent agenda.

This motion passed with one abstention (Lynn Old Business Third Reading of Draft Policy 6159, Individualized Education Program The Curriculum/Policy/Technology/Communications Subcommittee recommended draft revised Policy 6159, Individualized Education Program, to the Board for a third reading and approval. A motion was made

by Rosemarie Weber and seconded by Sarah Thrall that the Granby Board of Education adopt Policy 6159, Individualized Education Program, with corrections as presented. Rosemarie Weber stated this policy was presented to the board at the last meeting and a few changes were made due to statutory language, which has been added. This motion passed unanimously CABE Board Recognition Award Application CABE Level Two Leadership Award. A motion was made by Rosemarie Weber and seconded by Jenny Emery that the Granby Board of Education approve the submittal of the CABE Board Recognition Award Application for the Level Two Board Leadership Award.

New Business FY19 Year-End Budget Transfers The Board discussed the approval of FY19 year-end budget transfers as recommended by the Business Manager and Finance Subcommittee. A motion was made by Jenny Emery and seconded by Brandon Webster that the Granby Board of Education approve year-end budget transfers for FY19 as recommended by the Business Manager and Finance Subcommittee.

Jenny Emery stated this is standard procedure throughout the year. Between regular education and the Board of Finance knew the deficit would be there and made an appropriation for more than what is needed. Emery stated overall, the impact to a taxpayer was budget-wise and that education had a surplus of approximately $500K. This motion passed Board Standing Committee Reports Finance/Personnel/Facilities Jenny Emery reported this subcommittee met to discuss the statement of accounts discussed earlier as well as cybersecurity. CABE sent out information to ensure school boards are on top of issues relating to protecting data. Jon Lambert, Director of Technology, attended the meeting and reviewed a lot of what is done in the district. The board encouraged Lambert to let the board know if there are resources he needs.

The subcommittee received an update on the school and the Health Benefit Advisory Committee and making sure the right resources are in place to receive the correct information for the budget.

Other Board-Related Reports CREC/CABE Mark Fiorentino reported CREC met today.

Information was provided on Open Choice enrollment.

Generally, the trend is very static and is about the priorities until after the convention. The Legislative Breakfast is scheduled for February 20. Jenny Emery Robbins said a slight increase was budgeted. Mark Fiorentino stated there was a brief discussion about that and CREC was partially successful in getting the state to raise tuition rates for magnet schools by 5 percent and they got a little less than 2 percent.

Respectfully submitted, Rosemarie Weber, Board Secretary

Oct. 2, 2019 Meeting

Present Board Members: Jenny Emery, Mark Fiorentino; Lynn Guelzow, Melissa Migliaccio, Sarah Thrall, Rosemarie Weber, Brandon Webster, and Dwaritha Ramesh (Student Representative).

Absent Board Members: Jack DeGray (Student Representative) Administrative Reports Superintendent’s Announcements Small capital, large capital and plus one budgets are complete. Operating budgets are due on October 16 and budget meetings will take place shortly thereafter with all administrators.

BOE cont’d. on p. 3

november 2019

The Granby Drummer

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TOWN OF GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES BOE cont’d. from p. 2 The Town Building Committee for the solar project held its first meeting last week and the Building Committee for the School Projects met earlier this evening. Both committees reviewed project details and discussed challenges and next steps.

The high school security vestibule project is on schedule with groundbreaking taking place on Oct. 9, weather permitting.

There is a new recognition program in our Facilities Department called Employee of the Month. It acknowledges employees that go above and beyond to make day-to-day life in the Granby schools better.

Congratulations to Employees of the Month for July, August and September: Charles Watts, Jeff Larsen and Luis Sulca, respectively.

Student Representative Reports Robotics was at Granby Days and the Simsbury

if anyone knows someone who is passionate about this subject, have them get in touch with him. Melissa Migliaccio will be joining GET on Monday nights once a month and she encouraged other board members to get involved in a network. Fiorentino stated he would like to be put into a network, and he would also like to see another open house in Hartford again this year for parents. Tranberg reviewed the recommendations for the 2019-2020 Action categories as follows: professional capacity, achievement, climate, and program participation. Mark Winzler stated he never heard of an equity report in the past 10 years of being an Interim Superintendent in other districts and he congratulated Granby on doing this hard work.

Consent Agenda Minutes A motion was made by Rosemarie Weber and seconded by Jenny Emery to adopt the consent

team has been doing a lot of outreach events and receiving many donations.

The two countries the Model UN Club will be representing this year are Italy and Iceland.

abstention (Melissa Migliaccio).

V. New Business Secondary School Improvement Plans GMMS Principal Susan Henneberry presented her School Improvement Plan to the board. Under the Vision, Mission and District Achievement Goal, the middle school has shifted a few teams to maximize effectiveness to increase student achievement.

Henneberry stated all teams act as Student Intervention Teams that measure Tier I and Tier II intervention progress by monitoring data and student success.

Professional Learning Community teams are aligning formative assessments with priority standards, and Collaborative Proactive Solutions Teams implement consistent behavior expectations. For the Student Achievement Goal to increase student achievement in literacy and numeracy standards across all discipline areas as indicated by standardized measures, 2019 SBAC target reports will be used to guide instructional plans and identify areas of growth. PLCs will be used to create common formative assessments to inform instruction of curriculum standards and progressmonitor student achievement. The Instructional Goal for the middle school is to utilize equitable instructional practices that personalize learning for all learners.

This is the second year for the school-wide enrichment program and gifted and talented program; Fall clusters with enrichment classes and enrichment opportunities embedded in lessons; and, studentcentered coaching is also in its second year and hoping to expand on it this year by increasing the number of teachers participating in coaching cycles.

GMHS Michael Dunn presented his School Improvement Plan and stated the plan is about fostering and maximizing offerings for students.

The Vision, Mission and District Achievement Goal is to improve systems and practices that maximize equitable opportunities for all students by enlisting staff to recruit and support an increased percentage of minority students in college-level courses; implement revised SRBI intervention practices and partner with CCSC and NCCJ to develop equity-focused culture.

For the Student Achievement Goal, all students will meet learning expectations as measured by departmental measure: increase in the percentage of juniors meeting benchmark from 2019 PSAT

Teaching and Learning - Equity Taskforce Update/Annual Equity Report Assistant Superintendent Christopher Tranberg updated the board on the equity taskforce as well as presented the Annual Equity Report for the 2018-2019 school year. Tranberg informed the board that the Granby Equity Taskforce has been newly named to the Granby Equity Team (GET) as it is now a continuous group. He shared the statement of equitable practices that tie in with the board’s core values. The focus areas of the Equity Team are: under-representation of minority students in college readiness course; over-representation of black male students receiving referrals/discipline; over-representation of black male students receiving special education services; and under-representation of minority teachers.

Tranberg then presented the Achievement Gap Report to the board and gave an overview as well as greatest point of pride in Granby from year-to-year is the graduation rate of students. In the college readiness area, there is a 20-point difference in closing the gap in the areas of college course completion and college readiness exams. The district is close to goal in the college course completion area. Tranberg stated going forward for this report he would recommend comparing “race” instead of “residence.” For Grade Level Testing, there are wide achievement gaps that consistently persist by program and residence. Jenny Emery inquired if other districts of like size compare data regarding Open Choice students as we do.

Tranberg stated there are other districts that are just starting to do equity work so this may be seen in the near future.

With regard to school engagement, the district has done very well in the attendance and discipline categories when comparing programs and residences.

Tranberg reviewed broad next steps the Equity Team would like to take. Melissa Migliaccio inquired about what area needs money and for what reason. Tranberg said the grant funding is no longer available, and last year’s budget allocated money to support the equity team and the administrator coaching positions.

However, this was only instituted for one year so more funding will be needed for staff for student interventions. Mark Fiorentino requested that those inquired if there is a way to be more transparent about the Equity Team and if it is only communicated through the networks. Tranberg stated there will be a presentation at the CABE/CAPPS that will speak about that and how it is intentional for people to talk in their network and feel courageous enough to have the conversations they need to have. He also stated there is only one student involved and more are needed so

expectations, engaging teams in tracking cohorts to monitor student growth in college readiness standards, and focusing professional development and supports around practices to promote growth in SAT-assessed standards.

The Instruction Goal is to use formative assessments of clear learning targets to adjust instruction by focusing on educator feedback and coaching around standardsbased learning targets and formative assessments.

Supporting implementation of Pre-AP and engaging the school leadership team to reduce inconsistencies in formative assessment, homework, grading, and communication. Dunn stated inconsistencies in these

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areas were mentioned in the NEAS&C report as well as inconsistences in homework through student surveys. Jenny Emery inquired if parents are aware of learning targets for students in order for parents to get engaged. Dunn stated a syllabus is shared at the beginning of the year with parents as well as progress for students in PowerSchool and Google Classroom. Brandon Webster inquired if the increased percentage in college-level courses is geared toward freshmen. Dunn stated, “Yes, and the high school is always looking for ways to expand enrollment in these courses.” Sarah Thrall inquired what the goal is for work-force ready and career-ready students, and encouraging students to take challenging college-level courses and be successful, as well as, where the line is for social emotional learning not to stress out students. Dunn stated the line is individual for each student and college- and career-ready standards allow students on either path to do well with college-level courses. With regard to course level, it is necessary to look at a student as a whole person with regard to course load. Rosemarie Weber commented the guidance piece is very important for counselors to help guide students. Mark Fiorentino stated students should be challenged in all classes, not just be encouraged to take college-level classes. Melissa

Migliaccio requested the Guidance Department come to a subcommittee meeting to speak on how they are aligned to the School Improvement Plan.

Authorized Signatures Change Form for the Agreement for Child Nutrition Programs The board considered the approval of an Authorized Signatures Change Form for the Agreement for Child Nutrition Programs. A motion was made by Sarah Thrall and seconded by Brandon Webster that the Granby Board of Education approve the Authorized Signatures Form for the Agreement for Child Nutrition Programs.

Board Standing Committee Reports Curriculum/Policy/Technology/Communication This subcommittee met and discussed the Assistant Superintendent’s report including equity and the revamping of the STEAM mission statement. Rachel Schaumburger and Karen Richmond-Godard presented on the Seal of Biliteracy, a special testing for Level 4 and AP students that has a writing and computerized component. Students would receive a their diploma. It has been adopted in other districts.

Respectfully submitted, Rosemarie Weber Board Secretary

Forum Recap cont’d. from p. 1 that the new superintendent will resolve this issue.

When discussing the cost of special education, Peaslee stated that the board should examine how they are spending their money. She asked, “Why has enrollment decreased but the funds for special education have increased”?

Peaslee continued to explain how there has been a lack of support for the majority of students falling in the middle of two extremes, and she doesn’t want these students to experience an educational version of “middle child syndrome.” Fiorentino spoke about how he would improve the special-ed program if and only if it did not interfere with existing programs.

The topic of school safety brought up discussion about not only physical safety, but mental health as well. Weber introduced the idea of physical safety by bringing to light the new “doubledoor” system being installed at Granby Memorial High School and how this will improve student safety. Finally, Peling and Guelzow articulated the importance of providing students with mental health support.

In a post interview with Guelzow, she stated that “we should focus on the classroom, focus on the kids in the classroom” in regards to the declining enrollment. She emphasized that the last

thing the budget should cut is classroom sizes or arts and music.

As a whole, all candidates agreed that communication needs to be improved by the board to the residents of Granby. Surveys are sent out at various times regarding BOE topics that allow residents to voice their concerns and opinions, including during the superintendent selection process. A higher level of communication would lead to the board spending its budget on community desired programs. In addition, Weber expressed that she felt that, “the public got a balanced view of the board’s priorities,” and Fiorentino explicitly stated that there needs to be an emphasis on “people need to go out and vote.”

The responses at this forum provided residents with a deeper look into the candidates’ views surrounding the improvement of the school system while taking into account budget limitations.

The multiple perspectives represented the unique characteristics the candidates bring to the table. However, it is clear that all candidates aim to enhance the school system for the residents and students. Tuesday, Nov. 5, the people of vote for these candidates. Therefore, as the candidates emphasized, “get out there and vote!”

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The Granby Drummer

Drumbeat Letters to the Editor FOGPL Book Sale success The 37th Annual Used Book Sale held in September resulted in our most successful one yet with over $13,100 raised by the Friends of the Granby Public Library. Nothing like a nice sunny weekend to draw a crowd.

The sorters were busy in June and during the Holcomb Farm had to be shut down due to a lack of storage space.

There are so many to thank for the success of this event—the FOGPL Board for their work moving books from the library to Holcomb Farm and to continue sorting them there; the men and women of the Granby Memorial High School work they did to move well over 500 cartons of books to the main barn; the many volunteers who unpacked the boxes, set up the sale room in the Main Barn and also helped during the sale itself; the various town departments—the Granby Public Library, the Department of Public Works and the Recreation Department; Cossitt Library board members who loaned us tables; the donation drops at the Y, Geissler’s and Cossitt; those who let us advertise with signs at homes, businesses, churches, even in Simsbury; Signs Plus, Wine Inc., Berkshire Hathaway who helped with logistics; and all who donated items for the sale and all who shopped at the sale. We could not have done this without all of you.

Our sponsors this year were: Arrow Concrete, Judy Guarco (Berkshire Hathaway), Beman True Value Hardware, Platinum Studio, Zen Restaurant Group (Han, @The Barn, Farmer’s Kitchen, La Figata), Northwest Community Bank, Windsor Federal Savings, Cambridge House Brew Pub, Geissler’s Supermarket, Paine’s, Grass Roots Ice Cream, Stop & Shop, Cake Gypsy and Wine, Inc. We are very lucky to have such a great community who support us in so many ways.

Del Shilkret, FOGPL President

Prepare to Vote Election Day is almost here. As Nov. 5 approaches we, along with other Connecticut registrars, want to make sure you’re registered to vote and able to easily and successfully cast your ballot. Wherever you stand on the issues, as the bipartisan, non-political administrators voice: We’re here to assist you.

We want you to be prepared for Election Day, and it’s important to us that you know all the resources available. You can visit any Registrar’s check your status or register to vote, whether

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

you live there or not.

If you haven’t registered by Oct. 29, you have another opportunity with Election Day Registration (EDR). It’s important to know where your EDR location is because, by law, towns and cities are only permitted to have one. Please try to get there as early as you can so you have enough time to both register and vote before polls close at 8 p.m.

Voting is the fundamental core of our democracy, and we hope to see you taking part on Election Day. If you need assistance ahead of time, come see us or give us a call!

Laura Wolfe and Sonja Smith, Registrars of Voters

Support for BOS Candidates I am honored and excited to be running for re-election as the First Selectman of Granby. I was born and raised in the Farmington Valley and moved to Granby over 25 years ago. My wife, we love the sense of community Granby offers.

I have been involved in many activities through the years such as coaching, church activities and have been an active parent in the school district.

I was honored to serve as the Republican Town Committee Chair for over 11 years. I am a former member of the Board of Assessment Appeals, the Board of Finance and an eight-year member of the Board of Selectmen and have been First Selectman for the last six years.

My desire to run again for First Selectman stems from wanting to give back to the town that has given me and my family so much. My past experiences both professionally and personally have given me a skill set of problem solving, innovation and budgeting. I want to help make a positive impact by serving with the Board of Selectmen. I believe we are fortunate with all the volunteer leaders we have in this town that stepup and serve our community. I am honored to work with our Board of Selectmen, we each bring unique and similar skill sets to our positions and a strong desire to do what is right for our town.

We have seen improvements in our town center and are thankful to the small businesses that chose to be a part of our town. Our board has also improved avenues of providing information to the residents of Granby and continue to strive to seek your input for budgets, policies and procedures. Thank you so much for your assistance in the effort of doing what is right for our town. As your First Selectman, I will continue to work with our local boards, regional leaders and state representatives in letting them know

GRANBY FOOD BANK

CORRECTION

We currently need: Canned FRUIT

In our September issue, a photo caption of the 10U baseball team stated title in 27 years. In fact, Granby did

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exactly what our community needs are and work with them in developing effective, collaborative solutions.

I would appreciate your vote on Nov. 5. Thank you,

B. Scott Kuhnly I strongly endorse Ed Ohannessian for the Board of Selectmen. Ed has a passion for Granby, thinking about Granby’s needs today and tomorrow. He is pragmatic, always balancing questions. Granby’s future direction requires a leader with experience, integrity and an independent thinker. I encourage you to vote Nov. 5. I ask that you vote for Ed Ohannessian for the Board of Selectmen.

Ben Perron I’d like to express my support for Scott Kuhnly for First Selectman in the upcoming election. I have known Scott and his family for 25 years now. From our youthful days together as coworkers, right up to the present, Scott has been a faithful friend and mentor to me over the years.

His municipal experience, dedication to service and compassion for others is second to none. I hope you will consider casting your vote for Scott Kuhnly for Granby’s First Selectman.

Glenn Cusano

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At our regular monthly meeting on October 17, the Granby Democratic Town Committee voted to endorse B. Scott Kuhnly for First Selectman.

There is no Democrat running for the highest would be doing all we could to elect our party’s candidate. But, the DTC has determined that one of the two candidates who are running is clearly the better choice for Granby.

Mr. Kuhnly has been a loyal public servant to our town for a number of years, serving on both the Board of Finance and the Board of Selectmen before being elected First Selectman in 2015. In contrast, his opponent has never held

Hank Rau, Copy Editor Amanda Lindberg, Special Pages Andrea Leshinskie, Photo Editor Dave Tolli, Photo Editor Barbara Blanchette, Mindy Borrego, Carolyn Carter, Nancy Dudenhofer, Elaine Girard, Karen Cleary, Patricia Kovaleski, Eileen Longhi, Lew Noble, Donna Schedinger, Faith Tyldsley REPORTERS & CONTRIBUTORS Lori Blackburn, Jennifer Benson, AnnMarie Cox, Marisa DeLuca, Mark Fiorentino, Bernadette Gentry, Jay Harder, Carol Laun,

position he seeks, and was not even registered

Letters cont’d. on p. 6

Joanne Mayornick, Amy McCue, John R. Nieb, Camden Robertson, Lisa Salazar, Pam Sherrer, Emma Smith, Jessica Tsaptsinos, Faith Tyldsley, Kristine Vincent, John Violette, Laura Wolfe, Sandy Yost

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Town of Granby Meeting Calendar

LETTERS

Board of Selectmen, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall, Mondays, November 4, November 18

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

Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Police Community Room, Monday, November 25 Board of Education, 7 p.m., Central Office, Wednesdays, November 6, November 20 Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m., Town Hall Tuesdays, November 12, November 26 Inland Wetlands & Watercourses, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesday, November 13

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The Granby Drummer

Development Commission, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Tuesday, November 12

POLICY

november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Page 5

OP-ED Granby Schools: Current Quality and Future Trends

By Dilip Prasad

In the October issue of The Granby Drummer, Michael Guarco wrote with lucidity about the mill rates in Granby and the factors that influence them.

One of the points made in this article was with regard to school expenditures. spending considerably less than the state average per pupil, testing results placed Granby students relatively high.

Echoing this sentiment, Melissa Migliaccio writes in her endorsement of Lynn Guelzow in the same issue of the Drummer that “Granby’s cost per pupil is in the lowest quartile in the state, yet student achievements consistently place Granby Memorial High School in the top of ranking,” as demonstrated by it being placed at #21 in the state. Sentiments of this kind have been expressed many times in the recent past and these accomplishments of our students, while noteworthy, bear closer investigation. In particular, it will be shown in what follows that the picture is not nearly as rosy as has been portrayed, when considered from a different perspective.

First, let us examine Granby’s school performance relative to peer towns cally, it would be more fair to compare how we stack up against towns with similar demographics, income levels and mill rates rather than, say, a more urban environment. To this end, the results of the annual Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) testing in Mathematics and English Language Arts (ELA) over the past four years for the major towns in the Farmington ValOP-ED chart 1.docx

ley are shown in Table 1. The same data are depicted more visually in Figure 1.

It is immediately apparent from the above data that Granby does not fare particularly well in comparison with our Farmington Valley neighbors.

Mathematics and fourth place in ELA. Noting that the gap between the top and bottom performers is about 10 points for ELA, the fourth place in this area is discrepancy cannot be ignored. On the other hand, the gap between the top and bottom performers in Mathematics is greater than 20 points so that Granby’s last place should be a matter of concern. Moreover, it is clear that while Simsbury, Farmington and particularly, Canton have demonstrated progress, Granby has not, apart from a small increase in the last year.

The natural question arises as to why lower than the rest of the Farmington Valley. There are no obvious differences in demographics or socio-economic levels that would lead to this discrepancy, so it would seem that the performance differential is a consequence of community investment in the students. This hypothesis is explored in Table 2, which shows the Net Current Expenditure per Pupil (NCEP) for the 2017-2018 academic year. Indeed, the spending per pupil in Granby is the lowest in the Farmington Valley. As observed earlier, this appears to be a point of pride for some commentators since Granby places fairly high in overall state rankings. However, the consequence of the

Table 1. Annual SBAC data for Farmington Valley towns, showing the percentage of students at or above Level 3 (meet or exceed expectations). Source: https://patch. com/connecticut/across-ct/ct-smarter-balanced-test-see-how-your-district-did

Figure 1. SBAC proficiency percentages for Math (left) and ELA (right) for Farmington Valley towns over the last four academic years.

lower spending is that we perform lower than our neighbors. Also shown in Table 2 is the mill rate for each of the towns.

In this regard, Granby is seen to have the highest mill rate. This leads to the inescapable conclusion that the return on investment of homeowners (as measured by school performance) is poor and that families seeking to move to the Farmington Valley would be better off in any of the other towns. I believe this will have a deleterious effect on Granby’s population in the future, undoing all of Granby schools in recent years.

What, if anything, can be done about the current state of affairs? One straightforward answer, based on the apparent correlation between school performance and student spending in Table 2, would be to increase the latter. This would immediately imply higher taxes for homeowners since commercial taxes in Granby account for only 8 percent of the base, as was pointed out in the article by Michael Guarco. However, Mr. Guarco also points out that Granby has the lowest proportion of commercial real estate taxes in the Farmington Valley, by nearly 10 percentage points. Clearly then, a path toward increasing school spending without placing undue burden on homeowners, would be to grow the commercial tax base. There will be the inevitable concern that doing so would lead to a loss of the rural character of the town, but this does not have to be the case. A drive through Simsbury provides retain the rural character of a town while simultaneously increasing the commercial real estate footprint. Apart from 1259/36 increasing the tax base, having more businesses in town would also greatly increase convenience for residents who have to drive long distances for many things. The other point to note is that times change and we need to evolve as well. Well into the second decade of pect that the makeup of Granby should remain the same as it was 50 years ago.

Attempting to do so will lead to declining fortunes and fewer opportunities for OP-ED chart 2.docx our children.

Finally, I would like to return to issue of the relatively poor Mathematics per-

Table 2. Net Current Expenditure per Pupil and Mill Rate for the Farmington Valley.

formance of the Granby schools. Given these large differences, it would be worthwhile for the Board of Education to benchmark best practices in neighboring towns and to incorporate them into is of paramount importance in preparing our children for their future careers, especially with the continuous growth of STEM-related jobs. The corollary is that absence of good mathematical skills will permanently close doors to many of these careers. In my experience, Granby has some excellent Math teachers, but they and their students are hampered by the “Eureka Math” curriculum that is in place at present. Examination of the curriculum study materials reveals it to be insipid and thoroughly uninspiring, placing unnecessary emphasis on pedantic expositions that do little to strengthen mathematical skills. It is no wonder then, that it is almost uniformly reviled by students and parents alike.

It is not evident that the curriculum receives enthusiastic support from the teachers either. It is not clear what drove place, for there was no communication with parents when it was made.

There are other, far better, approaches to be had, such as the Singapore Math curriculum. In fact, it should be noted that Simsbury employs a variant of Singapore Math, and it has already been shown that their performance surpasses that of Granby.

In summary, the statistics that are constantly being cited regarding school performance in Granby do not tell the whole story. As taxpayers, we are paying substantially more than our neighbors and receiving less value just to maintain an expensive “rural feel.” A more pernicious consequence of this thinking is that it shortchanges our children’s futures. The world that they will emerge into as adults is going to demand a lot more of them than it did previous generations and it behooves us to prepare them for this future.

Dilip Prasad lives in Granby with his wife and two children who attend the local schools. He has worked with United Technologies Corporation for 22 years and is currently an engineer at Pratt and Whitney. He is passionate about STEM education and believes that every child has the ability to succeed in these areas. His own educational background comprises undergraduate and advanced degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mathematics, including a Ph.D. from MIT.

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Page 6

The Granby Drummer

Letters cont’d. from p. 4 BOS Candidate Support, cont’d to vote in Granby until the day of the recent, very important budget referendum in April. In our view, a candidate for First Selectman should have a proven understanding of the issues facing the the town. Only Mr. Kuhnly meets these criteria.

For all of these reasons, we endorse B. Scott Kuhnly for First Selectman.

Christine Chinni, Chair For the Granby Democratic Town Committee I have been a resident of Granby for nearly 50 years, and I support Glenn Ballard for First Selectman. Glenn is intelligent, thoughtful, hard working, forward thinking and loyal. We need someone to take a hard look at the future of Granby. We cannot ignore the prospect of continuing to increase our taxes. Glenn is looking at ways to control spending for the future. Granby is a special town, it is time to review where we are and where we are headed. Glenn is committed to working together with everyone to do so.

Mark Ernst Sally King for Board of Selectmen.

Sally King has the experience of many years of managing how Granby has grown and has always worked to preserve our farms and community. As a lawyer, an avid horse owner and a canine enthusiast, Sally is active in our community and represents our town interests on the board. community since his arrival in town, and is always open and receptive. On the Town Charter rewrite, on giving townspeople the right to vote on our budgets by referendum. Jim is a person of the people, and brings with that a lot of leadership and management experience to help make decisions for the best of Granby.

As long active Granby residents, we ask you

chairing a building committee then serving on a second building committee while also working on the town’s charter revision commission.

Jim has always cared deeply about his “familyand responsibilities. Because he is a man of his word and promise, you can imagine his outside attention.

Hours every week are absorbed into these civic and volunteer responsibilities, which have only grown since Jim started serving on the Board of Selectman in 2013. As a town committee chair, he has helped to recruit and position other commitment to Granby shows in the long hours spent in dialogue with other residents. His offphone time is spent learning the facts on issues, and how they impact not only us as a family but you—my fellow Granby residents.

As a member of the minority party in town (yes, we Democrats are outnumbered by both found that he has had to work harder to know the facts, and use that (with a certain force of character) to earn the respect of his peers and making for making Granby a better place for all of us.

Knowing Jim since he was vice president of a multi-national manufacturing company, I was never surprised that he could learn to contribute to the community we chose to live and raise our family in. However, it did take a new set of skills and learning how to use them in a new context.

I think his record shows that he has learned to serve you all well.

While part of me would rather have more of that list), I know the right thing to do is to continue to share him with Granby. Another term for Jim friends, neighbors and future friends we just haven’t met yet in our Granby community.

My husband does not know I am writing this.

Let’s keep it our secret but I ask that you please join me in voting to re-elect my husband, Jim

Jim Glenney and Len Murray My husband does not know I am writing this.

Behind his back, I am disclosing to you what it is like to live with someone that has a deep commitment to the town we live in, the town in which we raised our boys and the town we will love to live in for many more years.

Jim Lofink, my dear husband, became engaged in our community shortly after we moved here in 2005. His volunteerism started at the Holcomb Farm, after which he was invited to join its board, and eventually became its (last) executive director. He still volunteers there. His volunteerism, however, doesn’t end with the Farm. Jim also became engaged with the Granby Land Trust, the Granby Historical Society, the Granby Tennis Club and more. He

Granby is a community where government whole lot of the world around us, government more often choose their own objectives before In the meantime, a crisis is brewing that leads to a Granby government that spends way more ask your neighbors what the biggest problem

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Nelson Toussaint I’m excited to have a choice in the coming election for the Board of Selectman—it is time to get fresh perspective on the way the town is run. Our taxes have become increasingly burdensome to the extent that many residents feel they have no choice but to move to other towns. With less money coming in from the state, we examine our current operation and see where we can make savings without compromising the rural small town feel that we all love. Companies do this on a regular basis and so do households.

Why not the town? Rather than settling for an annual increase of 1 to 3 percent, let’s look at savings.

A prime example of misspent money was the 2012 purchase of the 125-acre Evonsion property on East St. The town did not need the land for new schools (the school population was already declining), no developer found the site attractive because of the lack of services to the property, and the $2.4 million price tag was based on an old appraisal. The proposal to purchase was bundled with other capital projects including vital bridge repairs. Hardly a mandate from the people and a gross waste of our taxes.

Although only two members of the existing BOS were serving at that time, the issue was further compounded in 2018 by the subsequent mishandling of a legitimate offer from a local farmer who was willing and able to invest in our town. Why, when we are crying out to alleviate the tax burden on our residents, was he not welcomed with open arms? The Evonsion Farm is now being leased to an out of town farmer for $13,000 a year. Certainly more than the town was originally leasing it for, but this paltry sum pales in comparison to the tax income we would have been receiving if we had allowed the state-ofthe-art organic dairy farm that is now operating successfully in New York. different and are focused on reducing the cost of town services while maintaining or improving

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• • • • • • • •

Our local governing boards see the grandeur of the community as more important than the survival of its residents.

We have an opportunity to elect a First Selectman who is by nature a thrifty person.

Glenn Ballard will slow things down and examine the true needs of our community. Glenn is also an open person who can listen to everyone and apply the sense of the people.

We sorely need responsive leadership.

Although we like to think otherwise, too many decisions are constructed behind closed doors, outside the view of the public, and lack concern for the public’s wallet. There is far too much of a willingness to keep throwing taxpayers’ money at anything that moves.

We must make a change in direction now, or

• • • • • • •

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november 2019 quality, increasing government transparency and encouraging more involvement from residents and they have my support. I applaud their decision to run as independents. At the local level it doesn’t matter if you are Republican or Democrat, agreeing on what’s best for our town goes across party lines. What matters to me more is getting candidates on the board that can look at our issues with fresh eyes. I am truly appreciative for the time and energy the board members have expended on our behalf, but times have changed, our town has changed and Selectmen should not be lifetime positions.

Anna Sogliuzzo For the last 13 years, I have had the opportunity to work with many people in making sure we were delivering exceptional products to our customers.

I’ve worked with thousands of people to help them get what they need. In my professional career, I have learned that when we listen to our customers and work with them, we can deliver exceptional experiences and products.

My work at Command Corporation has allowed me to take feedback from customers and develop cost-effective installation methods and lowercost equipment that function at a higher level. I believe the methods I have used over the last 13 years of my professional life can be applied to local government. old and she shared a powerful, life-changing quote with me from Howard Thurman, “Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive and then go do that.

Because what the world needs is people who I believe if we focus on strengthening our stronger, and then the world. If we want to change the world for the better, we have to start at home and in our hometown, and the good we do will expand outward from there. Vote for

John Bazyk

Support for BOE Candidates I am writing to offer my support to Monica Logan for election to the Granby Board of Education. Monica and her husband relocated to Granby with their two young sons in part because of the reputation of the Granby school system.

Monica is extremely hard working, dedicated and conscientious. Her ability to be a strong viewpoints will no doubt serve the school district and community well. She is able to see problems and challenges with a fresh eye and make smart decisions with a common sense approach. As the parent of four school age children, I have district faces in serving children at all levels. will advocate for changes that will best serve our

Letters cont’d. on p. 7

Keeping Granby Strong cont’d. from p. 1 the governor had proposed in reducing education money to Granby quicker than the legislature’s intent. Also factored in is his starting to shift the teacher’s pension cost over to the towns. These inclusions damage may come our way from upcomSpecial Ed costs like we’ve encountered for the past couple of budgets plus more negative actions from the state also could throw off the planning work. Being reserves will help us to help stay within bounds.

Regarding reserves, the General Fund is essentially the retained earnings account as we call it in the business world – the aggregate accumulation over time of the net results of each year’s operations: actual revenues less actual expenses. Towns conservatively budget black, with the net flowing into and increasing the general fund or drawing from it if ending in the red. We’ve never For the past few decades the bond credit rating agencies – Moody’s, Fitch and Standard and Poor – have looked for

towns our size to maintain a reserve of 5-10 percent of the annual budget. Given the recent mounting and recurring issues repeated threats to reduce state monies to the towns, these rating agencies are now looking for the towns to carry a stronger reserve position of 10-15 percent. Within the next couple of years we will go to the bond market for the recently approved capital expenditures. After consultation with our bonding advisor, we may our reserve position so that we maintain our existing AA+ rating or the bonding agencies may improve it to AAA. the credit rating for Granby has improved three times in the past 20 years.

Some towns have had their credit rating reduced and future interest rate expense increased, not so much for anything they did, but rather given the threat of reduced strong and recommended reserve levels.

Given our responsibilities to the town and its taxpayers, we are of the mindset that it is wiser to prepare for tomorrow than worry about it too late.

november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Letters cont’d. from p. 6

and Mark are contributors with a proven track

BOE Candidate Support, cont’d

As the Granby school district selects a new superintendent, public trust and BOE stability is crucial. Rosemarie and Mark have my vote.

students and families. Please consider voting for Monica Logan for the Granby Board of Education in the upcoming election.

Nicole Martel Rosemarie Weber and Mark Fiorentino are seeking re-election to the Granby Board of Education. I place my public trust in their proven ability and ask that you join me in voting for these two outstanding candidates on Nov. 5.

Why? The answer is simple, Rosemarie and Mark are highly skilled contributors. Volunteering their time and professional talent, these two incumbents know what it takes to work as part of a team collaborating to support, govern and run the Granby school district. A high achieving BOE members like Rosemarie and Mark. They never lose sight of the main priority: the students.

They value consensus building and teamwork.

They put political affiliation aside and work cooperatively with all board members to reach resolution through collaboration, commitment to collegiality and mutual respect.

Driven by integrity of process, Rosemarie and Mark understand that positive change and district improvement is inextricably linked to public trust and service. Rosemarie has a deep record of public service, extending from her early years of active duty in the U.S. Army to her professional career as an Assistant Attorney General for the state’s child protection unit. For a decade, Rosemarie has worked tirelessly as a BOE member and now serves as board secretary and chairperson of the curriculum committee. During her free time, you may spot Rosemarie at the Farmington Valley YMCA volunteering for the Tsunamis swim team or cheering on her children from the pool gallery. Mark is also an attorney working in the public sector.

Mark is in his sixth year on the BOE, currently committee. In his spare time, Mark is often seen out and about in Granby volunteering at the land trust and enjoying the natural beauty of our town. monthly column, Waypoints, in the Drummer.

Mark’s self-deprecating, clever humor is a must read for outdoor enthusiasts and sparks lots of laughter in our household. Rosemarie

Beth A. Cherubino I am honored to support Rosemarie Weber for the Board of Education. I have known Rosemarie for over 10 years and found her to be genuine, honest and an incredibly hard worker. All great qualities that will help our children strive through her work on the board. Rosemarie has served our country, our town and our education system. and the volunteer work she provides. She is one of the nicest people I know and I am very happy to call her my friend.

Please join me in supporting Rosemarie Weber on Nov. 5. Thank you.

B. Scott Kuhnly Jenny Emery is seeking her third term for the Board of Education. We are fortunate to have someone with Jenny’s experience as a member of the Board of Education. Her steady leadership, passion for education and strategic vision are critical as a new superintendent will be arriving.

I appreciate Jenny’s thoughtful leadership.

She seeks out differing points of view, weighs the perspective and reaches a reasonable conclusion. Jenny is a tireless advocate for the Granby school district while holding the administration accountable for results. I strongly endorse Jenny’s re-election to the Board of Education and encourage your vote for Jenny on Nov. 5.

Ben Perron for re-election to the Board of Education. Lynn and her family have been committed Granby residents for over 21 years and during this time she has shown a passion for volunteering and community service. Over her years of service Lynn has demonstrated her strong commitment to our town’s educational system. She relies on research to guide her decision making on new proposals, and on supporting a varied curriculum.

Lynn has always shown a strong commitment to our talented teachers. I strongly feel that she would continue to be a valuable asset to

Page 7

TOWN OF GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES September 16, 2019

Present: B. Scott Kuhnly, Sally King, James

and John D. Ward, Town Manager On A Motion by Selectman Neumann, seconded

by Selectman King, the Board voted unanimously (5-0-0) to reorder the agenda placing V.B. Consideration of Collective Bargaining Matters (Item Deemed Appropriate for executive session) to follow viii. Selectman Reports. who stopped by for Koffee with Kuhnly this Kuhnly will be next week, September 23, at 9 a.m. in the Town Hall Meeting Room.

BUSINESS On A Motion by Selectman Neumann, seconded by Selectman Ohannessian, the Board voted unanimously (5-0-0) to approve the appointment of James C. Tsaptsinos (R), 25 Stonewall Drive, West Granby, to the Board of Finance.

Vacancies: Commission on Aging (1), Conservation Commission (1), School Projects Building Committee (1), Local Complete Count (3). Anyone looking to be a volunteer should contact the Democratic Town Committee Chairman Christine Chinni, the Republican Town Committee Chairman Mark Neumann or Updates Bond Projects There will be an orientation meeting Sept. 19, for the three building committees, to establish a calendar for their meetings, choose a chairman, and review their charge.

Other Matters Town Manager Ward met with Interim possible use of the Kearns School building as an educational facility again. He will follow up with CREC after that.

Bears Senator Witkos will be part of a working group investigating issues pertaining to

bears. He anticipates that the group will make recommendations for the 2020 legislative session.

There is talk of a possible recommendation for a state-wide ordinance.

Selectman Ohannessian asked Town Manager Ward about the future of Kearns School. Ward indicated that he and Mrs. Kenyon expect to come back to the board with a review of options regarding this.

There was discussion of getting a jump on the upcoming budget season. The board is looking for data to review ahead of time regarding needs and goals for the budget. Ward asked for First Selectman Kuhnly suggested the board members email their requests to him and he will forward them to Town Manager Ward and the board.

First Selectman Reports (B. Scott Kuhnly) Selectman King inquired about the repair of the door at Cossitt Library. It was noted an RFP is being drafted for an architect for historic buildings before the repair can be made. A grant was received to hire an architect.

by Selectman Ohannessian, the board voted unanimously (5-0-0) to recess the regular Board of Selectmen meeting at 7:18 p.m. First Selectman Kuhnly called the executive session of the Board of Selectmen to order at 7:20 p.m.

Present: B. Scott Kuhnly, Sally King, James and Town Manager John D. Ward The purpose of the meeting was to discuss collective bargaining matters.

At 7:50 p.m. the regular meeting of the Board of Selectman resumed.

On A Motion by First Selectman Kuhnly, seconded by Selectman Neumann, the board voted unanimously (5-0-0) to adjourn the executive session at 7:50 p.m.

Respectfully submitted, John D. Ward, Town Manager

Letters cont’d. on p. 8

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Letters cont’d. from p. 7 BOE Candidate Support, cont’d our Board of Education. Please vote for Lynn

Amy Aureli We have known Dave and Jenny Emery from almost the time they moved to North Granby and bought their farm on Loomis Street. They have been thoughtful stewards of that land and immediately threw themselves into the town’s civic and political activities. They have served on numerous boards and commissions, in every case with passion and focus.

Jenny has served on the Board of Education for two terms and is seeking her third one. She is energetic, knowledgeable and easy to work with and her distinguished career in the corporate critical thinking skills. Their three children went through the Granby school system and they have maintained an intimate relationship with all of the schools both because of Jenny‘s involvement on the Board of Education and Dave’s serving as the varsity coach for the boys’ soccer and lacrosse teams. When something needs to be and people can assume that the chore is as good as done. This past fall, for instance, Jenny spearheaded the drive to support the budget Granby public schools. Those who know her, and we consider her to be a very good friend, respect the values she embraces in her life and her generosity in contributing her considerable talents and untold hours of hard work to the town she and Dave love.

Please join us in supporting Jenny in the upcoming election.

Put and Nannie Brown I am writing to publicly add my enthusiastic support to the many who already support Dave Peling in the upcoming school board election.

Dave’s neighbor for the past 10 years. I have come to rely on him as a friend and neighbor. I know him to be a patient listener who remains level headed and fully considers options before a practical thinker who follows through on commitments.

Dave has children in Wells Road and Granby High School, but his commitment to the Granby public schools reaches well beyond the interests of his own children. Dave cares deeply about the quality of education for all students. He will advocate fairly and avidly for students, families, teachers, and administrators, to achieve the best possible outcome for Granby.

Dave is not just a wonderful parent, husband, friend and neighbor. He has dedicated his life administrator and coach. He has an exceptionally broad educational vision, and he’s dedicated to helping all students succeed. He will be an incredible asset to the Board of Education in Granby.

I encourage all Granby residents to elect Dave in November.

Katharine Leenders

The Granby Drummer Our daughter Keara was a history teacher at Conard High School in West Hartford from 2007 to 2015. Her subject was modern European History. At that time, David Peling was a history teacher at Hall High School in West Hartford.

Each year during spring break Conard and Hall High Schools’ A.P. history students were given the opportunity to participate in an educational European tour. David Peling and our daughter chaperoned that program. In 2011, they landed in the other European countries were cancelled due to the volcanic ash. Faced with what appeared to be a disaster and a ruined trip for over 20 students, David Peling quickly went into action historic sites in England and Scotland. On this trip, David exhibited his leadership, high level of experience and professionalism. Qualities that were evident on all of those European trips.

David Peling has all the skills and experience necessary to be a productive member of the Granby Board of Education.

Liam P. O’Leary

a person with strong roots in both the Granby community and in volunteerism. Her record of service, including two terms on the board, is exemplary. Lynn is dedicated to student achievement and will continue her record of service, maintaining focus on stability as we transition to new leadership as a member of the Board of Education. As a parent of children in Granby schools, I trust that Lynn will dedicate herself to the success of every student. As a continue to make our schools a safe place where our children are free to learn and grow and where teachers will be able to hone and implement a curriculum that allows students to delve deep into the subject matter.

In education, we have conversations around many topics: accommodations, equity, achievement and assessment. Our community needs a person with a clear vision honed through years of experience and service with the flexibility of a mind that remains willing to learn and embrace new ideas. We need a leader who strikes a balance between the new and old, bringing fresh perspective and energy to strategies and methods, that have withstood the test of time. Lynn is that individual. I hope that you will join me in casting your vote for Lynn

Jessica Pietrosanti I would like you to take a moment to think about yourself and your family and try to remember that one adult who made a difference in your life. We have all had mentors, teachers and coaches who have molded us in a positive way. Mark Fiorentino did that for me, for my daughter and for our family. Mark gave us the gift of being the best coach we ever had. He not only focused also helped the parents be part of the growth experience. He was able to involve the parents by assigning a parent to keep notes of positive things they saw during the game. This method made the parents a part of team growth instead

november 2019

court. The parents had to present their remarks to the teams at the end of the game, which made them accountable and required them to focus on the right things. He generally built everyone’s confidence and also became so excited he jumped almost three feet in the air during one game.

I am sure Mark approaches his work on the BOE the same as he approached coaching my family—with honesty, energy, focus and a very positive attitude. Please support him for Granby Board of Education.

Catherine Slattery I am writing to endorse the candidacy of Christine Peaslee as a member of the Granby Board of Education. In the interests of full disclosure, I am Christine’s ex-husband. We share a son who is currently in the fourth grade at Wells Road School. Christine also has two older children who spent their pre-college years in the Granby school system, and who are recent graduates. As a parent with a student in elementary school, I can’t think of anyone I would support more to be an advocate for children in our school system than Christine.

Christine is passionate about children and the quality of their education, and if elected, she will be an advocate for fundamental equity in education. Since I moved to Granby in 2004, I have witnessed the progression of the Granby educational system over the years and have seen its evolution into one of the best school districts in the state. I know that Christine will work tirelessly to ensure that all of the children in the system continue to receive the opportunities and the resources necessary to be successful in their post-graduate careers.

This may sound like an ambitious task given the economy and our state budget woes, but and has served on several boards, and she knows how to negotiate, problem solve and get things done. She knows her way around a make our tax dollars work in the best possible way for our children.

Finally, I believe that it is extremely important that the Board of Education be composed primarily of parents with children who are currently in the school system. I feel that such individuals are in the best position to assess the needs of the students and professional educators and to offer long term solutions to ensure that the district continue to provide the high quality educational experience that our residents have come to expect.

Please vote for Christine.

Jeffrey Somers

I am writing to voice my support for Board of Education candidate Christine Peaslee.

Christine is a local Granby mom who has had two children graduate from, and one child who is still in, the Granby school district. She has a solid interest in our schools now and for years ahead.

Christine’s focus is about OUR children, their education and future. She listens with an open mind and will support what is best for the schools, teachers and, most of all, the students.

Christine has served as Vice President and Corporate Secretary for MassMutual, and was Granby PTO’s Assistant Treasurer and Assistant Secretary.

When considering who to elect, please consider my good friend Christine Peaslee.

Lisa Vitelli Please join us in re-electing Rosemarie Weber to the Granby Board of Education. Rosemarie has over 10 years of board experience and serves as the chairperson of the critical and influential curriculum sub-committee. In that role, working directly with school administrators, she has championed the development of educational programs and opportunities that have consistently raised student performance.

We can be proud of our schools and the accomplishments of our valued students and dedicated educators.

Rosemarie’s extensive and distinguished career as an attorney advocating for the rights of Connecticut children to ensure their health and safety, provides her with unique insights and understanding of the needs of students, particularly those with special needs.

In addition to Rosemarie’s education accomplishments (BA, U of Pa; MPA, Golden Gate U; and JD, Quinnipiac U. School of Law), she served in the United States Army as an National Training Center in California.

Without question, Rosemarie’s exceptional skills and talents, coupled with a pragmatic perspective on managing fiscal education budgets and expenditures, make her a key volunteer in the service of Granby parents, students and educators.

By any measure, Rosemarie is an outstanding candidate. We urge you to vote and re-elect Rosemarie Weber to the Granby Board of Education.

Helen and Al Wilke I had the opportunity to serve with Mark Fiorentino as a student representative on the Granby Board of Education when I was in high school. Mr. Fiorentino is passionate about nurturing a school environment that evokes

Letters cont’d. on p. 9

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november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Page 9

TOWN OF GRANBY PLANNING & ZONING MINUTES SEPT. 16 SPECIAL MEETING Present: Paula Johnson (Chairman), Jonathan Boardman, Margaret Chapple, Chris Chinni, Mark Lockwood, Eric Lukingbeal, Eric Myers, and Brennan Sheahan. Also present was Abby Kenyon, Director of Community Development.

Review and discuss potential changes to Zoning Regulations regarding restaurant drive-throughs.

The commission reviewed the proposed changes to the restaurant drive-through regulation and the maps provided by Abby Kenyon, which were prepared to show possible locations of drive-through windows.

Under the proposed regulation, a drive-through window could not be located within 250 feet of a Possible locations include properties in the Industrial Zone on the eastern side of Salmon Brook Street (500 to 560 Salmon Brook Street), properties within the Business Zone on the western side of Salmon Brook Street), and some locations near the Stop and the draft regulation would also require a 400-foot separation distance from an existing drive-through, which would eliminate the majority of properties on Mill Pond Drive. The commission discussed drive-through windows in the Economic Development Zone. It was and the regulation would apply to the Industrial and Business Zones.

The commission discussed the placement of the window and queuing lane, hours of operation, and design. It was noted the design should be compatible with Granby’s architectural heritage. In response to a question about drive-through windows in Granby Center, it was decided the Commission should start with an incremental change before examining the issue regulations for other drive-through establishments, such as banks and pharmacies, and such uses should require Special Permit approval. Staff will prepare a draft for consideration at a later date.

The draft regulation will be referred to CRCOG and a public hearing scheduled for October.

Respectfully submitted, Abby Kenyon, Recording Secretary

SEPT. 24 MEETING Present: Paula Johnson (Chairman), Margaret Chapple, Christine Chinni, Eric Lukingbeal, Eric Myers, James Sansone and Brennan Sheahan. Also present was Abby Kenyon, Director of Community Development.

Christine Chinni and Brennan Sheahan were seated for Jonathan Boardman and Mark Lockwood.

Action on the minutes of September 10 On A Motion by Margaret Chapple, seconded by Eric Lukingbeal, the commission voted (6-0-1) to approve the minutes of September 10, 2019. C. Chinni abstained.

Action on the minutes of September 16, 2019 On A Motion by C. Chinni, seconded by E. Lukingbeal, the Commission voted (6-0-1) to approve the minutes of September 16. J. Sansone abstained.

Informal Discussion: Discuss possible expansion of Greenway Village Apartments, 18 Mill Pond Drive.

Paul Selnau of Schadler Selnau Associates, 5 Waterville Road, Farmington, addressed the commission. He explained the applicant wishes to expand his property by purchasing an abutting 0.8

for an expansion of Greenway Village to include eight new apartment units and a clubhouse. Answering commission questions, Paul Selnau noted the new apartments would use the existing driveway and there would not be another curb cut on Mill Pond drive.

The apartments would be two and three bedrooms and two stories in height; and the building would look similar to the current units at Greenway Village. The commission acknowledged there has been no interest in the commercial use of the property for years.

Informal Discussion: Discuss possible zone change and multi-family development, 37 Hartford Ave. Arthur Howland, owner of 37 Hartford Avenue, addressed the commission. Howland stated the

property but there has been no interest. Moving forward, he hopes to convert the building into condominiums/multi-family housing with 10 to 12 units.

Abby Kenyon explained this property is currently in two Commons Zone and the back portion is the Center Edge Zone. In order to allow a multi-family use on the required for multi-family use in the Center Commons Zone. The commission questioned septic, water, parking, and grading for this site. Paula Johnson asked if Howland would speak directly with his neighbor, Michael Ungerleider to ensure any driveway access will work for all concerned. The commission noted there are remaining questions about the overall site and proposed use, suggesting more details would be helpful. Kenyon noted while an applicant may have a proposed use in mind, if the commission approves PUBLIC HEARING Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.5 for an accessory apartment for property located at 14 Spring Glen Drive. Kenyon explained the applicant is unable to attend the meeting tonight and requested the hearing be continued to the next meeting.

On A Motion by Christine Chinni, seconded by Eric Lukingbeal, the commission voted (7-0-0) to continue the public hearing for an application to the October 8 meeting.

Application seeking a one-lot re-subdivision for property located at 142 Case Street Peter Bors, 142 Case Street, addressed the Commission. He explained he is applying for a one lot re-subdivision of the property 142 Case Street.

The property is located in the R4A Zone and is 88.6 a home. The proposed lot complies with all regulations commented that the Town Engineer reviewed the plans. The applicant has received approval from the Farmington Valley Health District and the Wetlands

this area. No tree clearing is expected and there will be minimal grading changes.

Paul Bors, Jr., 114 Case Street, addressed the Commission. He has no objection with this application.

Receive application and set public hearing An application seeking an amendment to Zoning Regulations Sections 1.4 and 8.16 that would allow restaurant drive-throughs by Special Permit in the Business and Industrial Zones. File Z-16-19.

The application has been referred to CRCOG. The public hearing is set for October 22.

Consideration of above applications, where the Commission has concluded the public hearing On A Motion by Eric Lukingbeal, seconded by Eric Myers, the commission voted (7-0-0) to approve a one-lot re-subdivision as proposed for property located at 142 Case Street.

An application seeking to modify a Special Permit for an existing farm store under Zoning Regulations section 8.15.17 to allow special events for property located at 29 Bushy Hill Road. File Z-10-19. (Public Hearing Closed September 10). Application to be considered at October 8 meeting.

Commission Reports and Correspondence A Commission member inquired about the status of Shaw’s Garage. It was noted that a lot of work has been done to the property and it looks good.

Respectfully submitted, Patricia Tappenden

OCT. 8 MEETING Present: Paula Johnson (Chairman), Jonathan Boardman, Margaret Chapple, Eric Lukingbeal, Eric Myers, James Sansone and Brennan Sheahan. Also present was Abby Kenyon, Director of Community Development.

Brennan Sheahan was seated for Mark Lockwood.

Action on the minutes of September 24 ON A MOTION by Eric Lukingbeal, seconded by Eric Myers, the commission voted (6-0-1) to approve the minutes of September 24. Jonathan Boardman abstained.

P & Z cont’d. on p. 10

Letters cont’d. from p. 8 BOE Candidate Support, cont’d.

an excitement for learning within students and challenges the district to continually make changes to provide a higher quality of education. His dedication stems from his personal connection to the Granby school system and his children. He aims to ensure all students are more than adequately prepared for their post-graduation endeavors.

Mr. Fiorentino acted as a guiding hand to the student representatives on the BOE by making it known that our perspectives were valued and he continually encouraged us to actively contribute to the conversation. The voice of the student body is important to Mr. Fiorentino. Please join me in voting for Mark Fiorentino on Nov. 5.

Victoria Myers I am writing to support the candidacy of Dave

Peling for the Granby Board of Education. As a have observed his ability to shape the education and development of every student. Dave cares about the future of all children and understands the power and awesome responsibility of public education. As a professional educator, he will bring that perspective to the board. Granby needs Dave Peling’s voice to help the town continue its pursuit of educational excellence for every student.

Ray Sweetland I hope that you will join me in voting for Monica Logan for the Board of Education. These strong and resourceful women each have a profound interest in our schools and deserve the opportunity to serve Granby.

Jenny and Lynn are currently on the BOE

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and have advocated for our students and the taxpayers’ bottom line. They offer stability and long-term perspectives about the needs of our district. Their voices will be more important than ever with a new superintendent coming to Granby soon.

As an attorney and a mother with young children, Monica offers the board fresh eyes and a keen mind. Her experience in negotiation and resolution would be an asset when working out new contracts and keeping the district on a path to success.

In short, Jenny, Lynn and Monica are needed voices on the BOE. Please vote for them on Nov. 5.

Kim Becker I am writing to offer my support for Mark Fiorentino for re-election to the Granby Board of Education. became friends in middle school, and ever

since, he has become a privilege to get to know both personally and professionally. We served together as members of the GMHS football supporters during the time when our sons played football together and that was where I really got the chance to see everything that Mark embodies.

While working with Mark to support our high school football program, it was easy to see his passion, energy and exceptional work ethic shine through. I can unwaveringly say that Mark works tirelessly for the better of everybody around him.

Mark has already proven himself while serving on our Board of Education. He dedicates an incredibly large amount of time to our education that he will continue to do so in his next term.

Thank you, Mark, for all of your hard work to enhance Granby’s education system. We look forward to seeing how you continue to do so for the betterment of our community.

Jennifer Fenton Rome

Page 10

The Granby Drummer

november 2019

TOWN OF GRANBY PLANNING & ZONING MINUTES P & Z cont’d. from p. 9 OCT. 8 MEETING cont’d.

Public Hearing Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.5 for an accessory apartment for property located at 14 Spring Glen Drive.

John Laudati, representing the applicant, addressed the commission. Applicant, Teresa Angeli, seeks a Special Permit to allow the legal use of an attached accessory apartment at 14 Spring Glen Drive. The apartment is a total of 1,200 square feet and is located to the rear of

the commission. She explained the business has lost revenue not having alcohol to serve. She stated there is no problem with parking when the facility is at capacity.

The commission explained to Florian that the state

Laudati explained in the late 1990s when a building permit was issued for renovations, the previous owner had not obtained approval from the Planning and Zoning Commission for the accessory apartment. However, the

outdoors, including a separate fenced area.

Receive application and set public hearing.

Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.5 for an accessory apartment for property located at 103R Bushy Hill Road. The public hearing is set for Oct. 22 Consideration of an application seeking to modify a Special Permit for an existing farm store under Zoning Regulations Section 8.15.17 to allow special events for property located at 29 Bushy Hill Road. File Z-10-19.

(Public Hearing closed September 10).

The commission referred to a memo prepared by Kenyon outlining what the applicant proposes and other

and the applicant has paid taxes on it. The Commission

parking management on the property and options to

there is adequate parking. Abby Kenyon added the apartment complies with the accessory apartment regulations.

Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Sections 8.1.3.3 and 8.1.3.4 for a 1,280 square foot garage within 100 feet of the street line for property located at 4 Powder Mill Lane.

Dan Fauteux, Fauteux Construction, addressed the commission. The applicant proposes to construct a 1,280 square foot garage located approximately 72 feet from the street. The garage design is compatible with the house. In response to questions from the commission, Fauteux said outdoor lighting will consist of sconces; the garage does not have a second story, the dormers are for aesthetics only; no additional tree clearing is proposed; and the garage will be painted barn red. Kenyon noted the Wetlands Agent has reviewed the application and signed off. The Zoning Board of Appeals has granted a variance on it.

Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.3 for the sale of alcoholic beverages for property located at 4 Park Place, Deep Roots Street Food.

manage parking for larger events, use of temporary athletic paint for striping parking lots, the use of cones, and landscaping pins and ribbon to mark parking spaces.

It was noted a parking management plan should be presented and approved by staff.

The commission discussed the use of the tent and its location. It was noted the tent would have to be located closer to the farm store and its permanent restroom facility

Florian addressed the commission. Florian is requesting a Special Permit for the sale of alcoholic beverages for the facility. She noted the sale will not be limited to beer and wine. The entire building will be used for functions, she does not want to limit alcohol sales to one part of the building. There is no bar area proposed for the facility, with the exception of a temporary bar set up that may be used when the room upstairs is in use. The commission questioned parking, outdoor music, and if the applicant proposes outdoor alcohol service. Florian expects to serve alcohol outside on the patio. Kenyon added outdoor music has not been permitted; the applicant would have to come back to the commission for approval. Lillian Brough, employee of Deep Roots Street Food, addressed

it is moved closer, while the tent will be hidden from the street, it may be more visible from Strawberry Fields.

A screening/landscaping plan should be presented to screen the tent from view. A duration of up to 180 days for The commission discussed larger events that are until 9 p.m. The applicant proposes six such events a year, all other smaller events would be held during regular business hours. It was noted if the intent of the Plan of Conservation and Development and the regulations is adapt and allow farms the ability to attract people and create business.

In response to questions about lighting, it was noted the applicant proposes string lights and smaller table lights.

But if additional lighting is needed for people to travel to/ from the tent for larger events, a lighting plan must be submitted for review and approval by staff. It was also agreed that temporary bathrooms located by the tent should be installed just prior to an event and removed immediately after. the six from the staff review memo, revising the temporary bathrooms and adding four additional conditions, as discussed: The tent may be used during regular business hours for educational tours, guests wanting to sit during apple picking, prayer/church groups, those looking to sit and

consume an alcoholic beverage, and by other people who music proposed with everyday use.

The tent may be used for up to six events per calendar year. Such events would be held after hours (after 5 p.m.) and would host 125 to 150 people. These events would include weddings, farm to table dinners, or catered Special occasions may be held during regular business hours with up to 75 guests. Such occasions include birthday parties, bridal showers, retirement parties and special occasions.

Parking would be located in the existing parking lot, shown on the layout plan presented by the applicant.

With the exception of string lights and smaller table lights, no additional lighting is proposed.

The tent must be located within 500 feet of restroom facilities. The applicant also proposes to use temporary bathrooms adjacent to the tent. Such bathrooms are to be installed just prior to the event and removed immediately after.

A parking management plan must be submitted to and approved by the Director of Community Development by May 1, 2020.

A tree planting/landscaping plan to screen the tent from view from Strawberry Fields must be submitted to and approved by the Director of Community Development and implemented by July 1, 2020.

If additional lighting is required for the six events beyond what was presented by the applicant, a lighting plan must be submitted to and approved by the Director of Community Development.

The tent may remain on the property for up to 180 days per calendar year.

Margaret Chapple suggested imposing a one-year time limit for this Special Permit request.

On A Motion by Eric Myers, seconded by Eric Lukingbeal, the commission moved to approve a store under Zoning Regulations Section 8.15.17 to allow special events for property located at 29 Bushy Hill Road, File Z-10-19, with the ten conditions as outlined during the meeting.

On A Motion by Margaret Chapple, seconded by James Sansone, the Commission voted (3-4-0) to amend the motion to limit the special permit to one year. Paula Johnson, Eric Lukingbeal, Eric Myers, and Brennan Sheahan opposed. Amendment failed.

On A Motion by Eric Myers, seconded by Eric Lukingbeal, the commission voted (7-0-0) to approve store under Zoning Regulations Section 8.15.17 to allow special events for property located at 29 Bushy Hill Road, File Z-10-19, with the 10 conditions as outlined during the meeting.

Respectfully submitted, Patricia Tappenden

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november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Jimmy’s Tire and Auto: driven by trust

By Karly Fisher Located in Granby, just past the high Salmon Brook Street is Granby’s newest car repair shop: Jimmy’s Tire and Auto.

This fast-growing company opened in by this beautiful town. General manager and head mechanic, Jim Leitao, has been in the automotive industry since he was 15 and the amount of devotion he has to his work is exceptional. People refer to Jim as “honest,” “trustworthy,” and an “all around great guy.”

This car repair and maintenance garage does all you could imagine and more.

Jimmy’s is known for brake services, oil changes, and A/C services. Jimmy’s provides services for all makes and models on site with state-of-the-art tools and equipment, and has been serving the Farmington Valley area for over 15 years.

When asked what makes him different from other repair garages, Jim responded, “We bond with our customers, vendors, and community on a personal/personable level. Everyone who walks into our shop is treated like friends and family, rather than “just another broken car.” A job is not completed to Jim until he hands over return again knowing only the highest quality of parts were installed right — the With hard work and dedication, Jim strives to meet his goal of opening more locations throughout the Farmington Valley within the next few years. Knowing your mechanic is an important factor when it comes to maintenance on your car, and Jim encourages everyone to stop in and introduce yourself.

Jim Leitao and Karly Fisher of Jimmy’s Tire and Auto.

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Page 11

PTO Corner

By the PTO Executive Board

Fundraising in full swing for PTO As we usher in cooler temps, the PTO is also bundling up and buckling down to bring great winter activities, both in school and out, to the Granby community. The PTO’s major fundraiser for the 2019-20 school year, a combined Jog-a-Thon/Fall Family Festival, was held on Oct. 19, with more information forthcoming in the December issue of the Drummer. We would like to say “thank you” to all our volunteers, vendors, families and sponsors for their contributions and assistance in making the day a success. If there are any community businesses that would still like to sponsor the Granby PTO for the 2019-20 School year, please email president@granbypto. org. We have exciting incentives to offer back to all our amazing sponsors.

Stay tuned to the Granby PTO website (granbypto.org) for more information on the exciting programs to come this winter. We will again host a free evening with Riverside Reptiles split into two nights, one at Kelly Lane and one at Wells Road.

More info to come.

The PTO merchandise committee will be selling amazing new Granby gear at the Holcomb Farm Holiday Market on Dec. 7. Come on down and purchase some great Granby Gifts for the holidays.

A few reminders: Please send in your Geissler’s receipts over $35. Send them to school with your

Kelly or Wells or simply drop them off at the customer service desk at Geissler’s and mention they are for the Granby PTO. The money we receive back from Geissler’s really adds up; we have received over $12,000 for the 2018-19 school year. You DO NOT have to have a student in our schools to participate in this amazing give back program. Please continue to support the local businesses that support the PTO. The BoxTops program has now gone digital. Download the easy BoxTops app on your phone and see how easy it is to scan your receipts and have boxtops applied to our schools’ accounts. Receipts MUST be scanned within 14 days. Thank you for taking the time and making the effort with the transition to this new system of submitting BoxTops.

When you shop on Amazon (as we all do, especially with holiday shopping about to start), please set Amazon to Amazon Smile (smile.amazon.com) and identify “Parent Teachers Organization Granby” as your charity of choice. The PTO earns back 0.5 percent with every purchase.

Thank you again to our wonderful Granby community for all your support.

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Page 12

The Granby Drummer

Out of Town

november 2019

Events at the Storyteller’s Cottage

Archaeology tells story of the Farmington River Valley Historic Sites of Connecticut’s Farmington Valley is delighted to present a lecture with Ken Feder, professor of anthropology at Central Connecticut State University, and founder and director of the Farmington River Archaeology Project, an ongoing investigation of the prehistory of the Farmington River Valley. Feder will be at the Simsbury Historical Society’s Ellsworth Center, 800 Hopmeadow St., on Sunday, Nov. 3, at 1 p.m., to tell the stories of the people who lived, worked and died in ancient Farmington Valley communities. Admission is $5 per person.

The Farmington Valley was originally settled by human beings more than 10,000 years ago. The Farmington River Archaeology Project has revealed

remains of the villages, hunting encampsettlers. Much the same way the police investigate the scene of a crime, archaeologists locate, recover, and examine evidence that reveals the scenes of a life lived in the past. Feder will discuss some of the sites his crews have excavated and share the stories of our River Valley forebears.

Proceeds from the presentation benefit Historic Sites of Connecticut’s Farmington Valley whose mission is to enhance appreciation of the Farmington Valley’s rich history by promoting communication among heritage groups and offering unique programs. For more information, call Nancy Anstey at 860680-5298 or email Nancy.Anstey@ comcast.net.

Holiday House Tour This December, Main Street in Suf-

-

-

Gardeners of Simsbury learn about McLean brary, 725 Hopmeadow St., in the large meeting room at 7 p.m. The public is welcome to this free event.

group meets at the Simsbury Public Li-

Food drive to benefit local Food Shares

immerse themselves in the Jazz Age. Last Night on the Titanic Dinner Party On Friday, Nov. 15, from 7 to 9 p.m., the Storyteller’s Cottage will host The Last Night on the Titanic Literary Dinner Party, based on The Last Night on the Titanic: Unsinkable Drinking, Dining, and Style by Veronica Hinke. This event is BYOB. Tickets are $60 and can be reserved at storytellerscottage.com/ book-online/last-night-on-the-titanic-

served on the Titanic on the night of April 10, 1912. The event will include the Captain and from the Unsinkable Molly Brown, beautiful poetry readings, curiously original literary games, and themed decor and discussion.

The Storyteller’s Cottage’s Literary Dinner Party series allows guests to immerse themselves in their favorite books. They feature themed dress, elegant foods, and immersive activities and period music. It’s the kind of enchanting fun that guests could previously only The Storyteller’s Cottage is located at 750 Hopmeadow St. in Simsbury.

Parking is free, and is available on the street in front of the building and in the Fiddler’s Green parking lot on Wilcox Street (behind the house). For more information, please call 860-877-6099 or visit StorytellersCottage.com.

The Handcrafts from Around the World sale will be held Saturday, Nov. 16, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 17, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., in the Hurley Building, 37 Greenwoods Road, New Hartford. Admission is free, but people are encouraged to bring one nonperGrace food pantry. There is free parking on site.

Handcrafts from Around the World started 30 years ago when a group of local importers decided to offer the community the opportunity to purchase quality handcrafts from other countries

all in one place. Since 2007 the sale has grown to include local artisans and Camp Hispaniola, a summer camp for children from Haiti and the Dominican Republic and fair trade organizations Mayan Hands and Serrv. This year the sale is joined by Wreaths with a Reason, a nonprofit based in Agawam supporting the Underground Railroad Project whose mission is to rescue innocent children from huto support The Heifer Project. Last year it was able to buy three goats for three different families.

Organize Your Quilting Space -

-

Guests should attend this Signature Vintage Night Out event dressed in their

dinner-party.

Guests should come dressed in their favorite Edwardian formal gowns and tuxedos. They will enjoy a fantastic

Artisan Craft Sale

-

On Tuesday, Nov. 19, the Gardeners of Simsbury will host “About the McLean

Jazz Supper Club On Saturday, Nov. 9, from 6:30 to 9 p.m., the Storyteller’s Cottage will host a Jazz Supper Club. This event is BYOB. Tickets are $60 and can be reserved at storytellerscottage.com/ book-online/jazz-supper-club.

Guests will enjoy an evening of live jazz, a delicious dinner and intellectual conversation. They can sit tucked away at a charming bistro table and savor a lovely meal while they enjoy live music performed by the talented Sally Terrel and The Green Jazz Band. There’s no place else in the greater Hartford area to

Jennifer Watchorn, a quilt designer and teacher, will speak on organizing your quilt space at the Nov. 20 meeting of the Farmington Valley Quilters.

Watchorn will cover how to utilize your space to be productive, knowing where your tools and supplies are and keeping

your projects together. Her website is jb9design.com Join us at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 20, in Eno Memorial Hall, 754 Hopmeadow St, Simsbury. Sign-in begins at 6:45 p.m. Fee for non-members is $10.

Old St. Andrew’s Church Christmas Bazaar The Old St. Andrew’s Church Christmas Bazaar will be held on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 8, from noon to 4 p.m. Homemade cookies by the pound will be sold, along with many craft vendors of specialty items such as unusual holiday gifts, photography, specialty foods, hand

crafted gifts and many more. Lunch and refreshments will be for sale.

Come join us for this festive event at further information and/or directions visit oldstandrewschurch.org or call 860-242-4660.

november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Page 13

In Town Focus Camera Club

Civic Club

The Granby Camera Club will meet on Monday, Nov. 4, 7 p.m., at the Granby Senior Center. The program, presented

by Scott Tracy and Jay Harder, is Photographing the Moon. The scavenger hunt words are: still life, metaphor and favorite. To learn more about the club, visit GranbyCameraClub.com

On Thursday, Nov. 21, at 1 p.m., the Civic Club will welcome Susan Patricelli Regan and Bill Regan as our guest speakers. They will be discussing

Women’s Breakfast On Wednesday, Nov. 6, Annukka Ritalahti from Silver Street Glass will present a program to the women of the Granby breakfast group. Breakfast will start at 8:30 a.m., the program will begin at 9 a.m. and both will be held at the Granby Senior Center. All women are welcome to attend this demonstration of art glass. Cost $4. Make your reservation today by calling Corinne Dickerson at 860-653-9891.

Men’s Breakfast Join us Friday, Nov. 8, at the Granby Senior Center. John Flint, Andy Mitchell hobby of Post Mark Collecting. They travel the United States and visit post Breakfast is 8:30–10 a.m. If you are a new participant, please arrive by 8:15 and ask for Nat. After the morning welcome and news update, we enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast, followed by a 45-minute presentation. The breakfast typically includes eggs, pancakes or French toast, sausage, home fries, coffee and orange juice.

Swedish Pancake Breakfast Pilgrim Covenant Church will host a Swedish pancake breakfast and Scandinavian bake sale on Saturday, Nov. 16, from 8 to 10 a.m. Come out for Swedish pancakes, lingonberries, bacon, sausage and fellowship. The church is located at 605 Salmon Brook St. Cost is a free-will mission trip.

Men’s Breakfast News On Friday, Oct. 11, attendees at the Granby Men’s Breakfast were enlightened by the expertise of Abby St. Peter Kenyon, Granby Director of Community Development.

Kenyon explained the details of Granby’s current and future development, and answered many questions about the town center, the roundabout at the state line, and other important changes. We look forward to seeing the results.

Granby Director of Community Development Abby Kenyon.

Submitted photo

program dedicated to supporting U.S. Veterans and First Responders with tion. They will also talk about the Sylvia Davis Patricelli Fine Arts Scholarship Program established in memory of Susan’s mother. The meeting will be held in the Senior Center. Refreshments will be served. Guests and new members are always welcome.

Breakfast with Santa Valley Pre-School will host Breakfast with Santa at First Congregational Church on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Breakfast is $8 per person and no charge for children under 2. Photos are $10. The church is located at 219 The Drummer welcomes announcements of upcoming events sponsored by Granby organizations.

Announcements may not exceed 120 words.

North Granby Road.

For more information, email ValleyPreSchoolKids@gmail.com

MS Support Group The Granby Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets at the Senior Center at 1 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month. For more information, please contact Meaghan at 860-428-2463.

Volunteers Needed Mary’s Kitty Korner, Granby’s no-kill cat shelter, is looking for volunteers to cats and can spare time on a weekday morning or evening or on a weekend morning or afternoon, the shelter would love to hear from you. Currently, the greatest need is for Friday mornings. To learn more, call 860-379-4141 or visit maryskittykorner.org

@

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

by e-mail:

editor@granbydrummer.org

Social Services Director: Sandra Yost Office hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4: 00 p.m.

Telephone: 860-844-5351 The focus of the Social Service Department is to coordinate existing federal, state, regional and local services, to increase community awareness of these services and to develop new programs to meet the needs of Granby residents. For more information about any of the following programs please Granby Local Assistance Program Granby residents facing financial hardship may access funds once in a twelve month period. The gross household income cannot exceed 60 percent of State Median Income, unless extenuating circumstances can be documented.

Fuel Assistance Program Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). During the winter months, help is available to households to help pay for heating fuel in the

form of oil, gas, or electric heat. To qualify you must provide proof of your household’s total income and assets that must not exceed the program limits. Fuel deliveries start in November.

Processing will be delayed if necessary

Prescription Discount Card Presented by the Town of Granby, this card helps residents save money on prescription medications any time a prescription is not covered by insurance.

There is no cost to participants and not all medications are covered.

CHOICES Counselor Appointments available on Wednesdays through November 13.

CHOICES is a program provided by the State of Connecticut which presents information and assistance about Medicare. Counselors are trained insurance companies. Call 860-844-5350 to make an appointment.

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The Granby Drummer

Town welcomes new administration finance officer Town Manager John Ward has announced the hiring of Yim (Kimi) Cheng the Town of Granby effective September 30.

Cheng received a BS in accounting and a BS in business management from the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania.

ration of a detailed pension funds cash for deciding the available cash for daily investment opportunities.

Prior to working for the State of Conmanager in Barefoot Bay Recreation Florida Status. She worked there for -

november 2019

Salmon Brook Music Series presents Vance Gilbert Nov. 15 Vance Gilbert burst onto the singer/ songwriter scene in the early 90s when buzz started spreading in the folk clubs of Boston about an ex-multicultural arts teacher who was knocking ‘em dead at open mics. Born and raised in WillingBoston after graduating in 1979. Vance

she analyzed approximately $73.8 billion statewide revenues and expenditures for projection to maximize potential investment returns on state common cash and to minimize banking fees. She executed approximately $35.0 billion statewide wire transfers yearly and reconciliation of various bank and investment accounts to the state accounting system. She also

this remarkable entertainer. Show starts brookmusicseries.com or by calling

debt and investment management. In telling sensibilities of acoustic folk music.

Before he began performing his own the annual audit report. The district reunder her management and continued to

of songs that ranged from Gershwin to

in Barefoot Bay Recreation District since plishment from the Board of Trustees.

Cheng says that she is honored to be

in Boston-area public schools.

Cheng has worked as a professional most recently for the State of Connecti-

comedian George Carlin. Most recently he’s the opener of choice for Paul Reiser and The Subdudes.

so get your tickets early. South Church 10) in Granby and is handicapped accessible. Homemade refreshments will be available at intermission. Proceeds go to support the mission of South Church.

his training as a lounge Her priority will be to ensure that the town continues to receive excellent pro-

blessed with an uncanny ability to read the moods

forward to working with the residents in

he’s learned to trust his intuition in his song selection on stage. He has released three excellent albums for the Philo subsidiary of Rounder Records.

department heads and employees of the Town of Granby.

opener of choice for art-

Vance Gilbert will appear Nov. 15 at South Church as part of

opening 140+ shows for the Salmon Brook Music Series. Submitted photo

DEMOCRATIC BOARD OF EDUCATION CANDIDATES Strong schools. Strong families. Strong Granby.

We are proud to present four strong, dedicated and intelligent candidates to represent you on the Granby Board of Education. Together we can continue to strengthen Granby’s reputation for excellent education.

JENNY EMERY

LYNN GUELZOW

MONICA LOGAN

CHRISTINE PEASLEE

Jenny is completing her second term serving Granby on the Board of Ed. She spent 30 years in public sector risk

Lynn is a 21-year Granby resident, community volunteer, and parent. She is an incumbent seeking her third term on the Board of Ed, where she has served on the curriculum and

Monica has worked in the insurance industry for over 14 years after a career as an attorney in private practice. She and her husband, Matt Peters, have two young sons. Monica wants to help Granby schools deliver a diverse, well-rounded and balanced education enabling

Christine is a 20-year resident of Granby. She has two older children who both recently graduated from the Granby Public Schools and is also the mother of a fourth grader at Wells Road.

saw three children go through our school system. She is a who seeks to continue the important work of the Board of Education in a crucial time for the town’s school system.

Granby transitions to a new superintendent, Lynn will provide stability and focus on keeping schools strong and responsive to the needs of students and families.

their individual skills.

Paid for by the Granby Democratic Town Commitee, Audrey Lampert, Treasurer

talents

and

board experience, including as a member of the Granby PTO, and has always been passionate about our children, their education and their futures.

november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Page 15

Fortune & Folly of a

Female Farmer

B y Kate B ogli

Be the shining light in your world Seniors Job Bank staff and volunteers. Submitted photo

Seniors Job Bank holds 40th anniversary reception The Seniors Job Bank celebrated 40 years of service to the greater Hartford region with a gala gathering driven organization connects men and women over 50 who want to work with households that need workers.

SJB president Dennis Carrithers thanked SJB staff and volunteer Board members for contributing their time

My husband had a terrible accident six weeks ago and has been recovering with baby steps back to health since.

Skinny and blind and at the end of his

our community has been the light that shines through.

but they had no idea how he was being cared for — that he was surrounded

rushing your last moments with a be-

for food and drink and still was blind and skinny. Maybe we don’t know the full story of anybody’s life. So instead

time out of their busy day to help with an of the organization through its history.

The Seniors Job Bank maintains a

and white collar. While all job seekers of any age.

Information about the Seniors Job

of the committee that planned the reception. He offered special recognition

and hospital staff who have helped us see the good in the world when so much has gone so bad. Most of us live under an illusion of what our future will look — we have no idea what life will bring.

What I know now is that good can come from seemingly bad times.

Tragedy has a way of clarifying priori-

he was comfortable. For sure people

shine a positive light out into the world and each day try to interact with someone in a way that will make their day better. There are already so many people out there in the world doing just this.

They have surrounded me for the last better person.

Our family will recover from my husband’s accident. We’ll never be the be better for it.

and not taking time to appreciate the energy of every other human being I looking at everyone with whom I interact with love and appreciation. When

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The Granby Drummer

november 2019

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november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Page 17

Granby Land Trust art show runs Nov. 7 – Dec. 8 Each fall, the Granby Land Trust, with support from the Granby Artists Association, hosts a juried art show to celebrate the beauty of the natural world and to raise funds to protect the rural character of Granby. This year’s show –Celebrating New England’s Natural Beauty– will open on Thursday, Nov. 7, from 5 to 8 p.m., with a reception that is open to all at the Art Gallery at Lost Acres Vineyard.

Opening Night typically draws as many as 150 people, making this a festive (and free) night out on the town.

All are welcome to join us for complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine (one glass per person, on the house), while you socialize with friends, meet the artists, and enjoy the show. Nearly $5,000

in awards will be presented to artists at the opening, as well.

For those who can’t join us for Opening Night, the show will run through Sunday, Dec. 8, at the Vineyard. We come enjoy this beautiful and diverse most beautiful settings.

This year, submissions will be juried

by Roxanne Stachelek, executive director of the West Hartford Art League.

In her position, Stachelek oversees classes, gallery exhibits and a public art program. The Granby Land Trust show is highly selective and only the best art is chosen for display. All art is available for purchase, with a portion of

The Land Trust is grateful to all of its award underwriters and, particularly, to its event sponsors: Mark Wetzel/Fiduciary Investment Advisors, LLC and Ted Cormier/ALIRT Insurance Research, LLC for their ongoing, loyal support of the show.

To date, the Land Trust has protected more than 2,500 acres of open space, forests, wildlife habitat, agricultural land, water buffers, ecologically-sensitive areas, and scenic vistas in Granby.

GLT President Rick Orluk says, “We hope this show reminds people of the beauty of the natural world, and inspires them to help us protect it.”

The show will run through Sunday, Dec. 8, at the Lost Acres Vineyard Art Gallery, 80 Lost Acres Road, in North

Granby. Gallery hours are Friday and Saturday from noon to 6 p.m.; Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, visit granbylandtrust.org.

To learn more about the work of the Granby Land Trust or to learn about other upcoming GLT events, visit www.

GranbyLandTrust.org and follow us on social media.

To support the preservation of Granby’s rural character, become a member of the Granby Land Trust. Family memberships start at $30. To join, go to our website, or mail a check to P.O. Box 23, Granby, CT 06035. To learn more about the Granby Land Trust, go to GranbyLandTrust.org.

Jay Harder and Marija McCarthy: The two top award winners at the 2018 GLT Art Show: Jay Harder’s A Pelka Sunrise (l.) and Marija McCarthy’s Twin Barns (r.). This year’s art show will take place from Nov. 7 – Dec. 8 at Lost Acres Vineyard.

Gallery hours are Friday and Saturday from noon to 6 p.m.; Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.

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Page 18

The Granby Drummer

november 2019

What’s for Supper?

Chicken and Green Olive Enchiladas

By Pamela Scherrer When I am not looking in my personal recipe box for dinner ideas, I like to search websites; two of my favorites are allrecipes.com and epicurious.com. This month’s recipe is from Epicurious via a 1998 article in Bon Appetit. It is a little bit more prep than I usually like, but it is well worth it.

Chicken and Green Olive Enchiladas Ingredients: 1 4.5-lb. chicken, quartered (I use two 1.5 lb. full breasts instead) 7 cups of low-salt chicken broth 3 Tbsp. olive oil (will need a few tablespoons more for cooking the tortillas) 3 Tbsp. chopped garlic 1 tsp. dried oregano 1 tsp. ground cumin ¼ tsp. ground cinnamon ½ ounce semisweet chocolate 16 corn tortillas, 6-8 inch width 1 cup drained pimento-stuffed green olives, sliced Optional- 16 oz container of sour cream

Directions: Place chicken and broth in large pot, bring to a boil. Reduce heat to med-low and simmer until chicken is cooked, about 30-45 min. Remove chicken and let cool. Remove bones and skin and discard. Shred the chicken meat and transfer to a bowl. Strain the broth and spoon off the fat. Reserve the broth.

Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add 1 cup onion, the garlic, oregano, cumin and cinnamon; stir, cover, and cook until onion is tender. Stir occasionally, about 10 minutes. Mix in the chili powder and ally whisk in 4-½ cups of the reserved broth. Increase heat to medium-high and boil until reduced to about 3-½ cups. Stir occasionally, about 30 minutes. Remove from heat and add the chocolate, stirring until it is melted completely. Let sauce Heat one tablespoon olive oil in skillet over medium heat. Add one tortilla and cook until just pliable; repeat with the rest of the tortillas, adding oil as needed.

Transfer to a paper towel to cool.

(Note: if you use a softer tortilla then you can skip this step.)

Spread 1/3 cup of the sauce into two 13x9-inch baking dishes. Mix one cup of the sauce into the bowl of chicken.

Starting with a tortilla, put 3 tablespoons cheese, one tablespoon olives, one tablespoon onion and ¼ cup of the chicken into the center of the tortilla and roll up and place in baking dish with seam side down. Repeat with remaining tortillas.

Top with remaining sauce and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Heat oven to 375 degrees; cover with foil and bake 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until sauce bubbles. Serve with sour cream.

Buon Appetito!

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

FOGPL Library book sale generates $13,000 Book lovers peruse the stacks at the annual Friends book sale. Photo by Brian Tomasino

By Brian Tomasino The Friends of Granby Public Library (FOGPL) wrapped up another successful book sale in September. The overall revenue generated over $13,000, all of which goes towards supporting the Granby Public Library with books, magazines, DVDs, museum passes, and special programs for all patrons. The library also chooses some of the donated books for their general circulation without the need to purchase them.

Donations were accepted throughout the summer with drop off locations at Geissler‘s, YMCA, GPL and Holcomb Farm. Volunteers sorted books, CDs, DVDs, audio books, LPs, games, puzzles, and other items that were sold.

Reluctantly the donation window was cut short by a couple weeks due to the shortage of space. The volunteers spent many hours inspecting and sorting all of in the week before the big sale, the room at Holcomb is prepared with tables, signage, and all the items are brought over from the sorting site. A big thank you goes to the Granby football and girls all the boxes into the room.

Needless to say this event takes a lot of

effort to prepare before and during the 3-day sale. This would not be possible if it were not for dedicated volunteers that provide all of the assistance leading up to and during the event.

Many of the same patrons look forward to the sale each year, and attracting new faces makes it so successful. Shoppers reduced prices. Since each year contains a new batch of donated items you never Another easy way to support FOGPL is choose Friends of Granby Public Library when shopping at Amazon through Amazon Smile. You can easily set it up by going to smile.amazon.com on your desktop or mobile phone. Sign in and at the top navigation select the option to search and select or change your Charity.

Make sure to select “Friends of Granby Public Library, Inc Granby, CT.” With every order that you make from the Amazon smile site, a portion is donated to Granby Public Library.

The Friends of Granby Public Library appreciates all of the support from the generous sponsors, super volunteers, along with everyone that showed up to the sale to make it such a great success.

november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Granby Land Trust acquires historic Wilcox family property The Granby Land Trust is excited to announce that it has preserved one of Granby’s most iconic and oldest agricultural properties, 143 Simsbury Road in West Granby. It includes a home built in 1787 by Sadoce Wilcox, a beautiful barn and 45 acres of property – part of which currently is being cultivated by the Garlic Farm. Working cooperatively with the most recent owner and Wilcox family descendant Steve Wilcox Hastings and the Salmon Brook Historical Society, the Land Trust closed on this property earlier this month. This Colonial home and surrounding property, which abut Holcomb Farm and include valuable agricultural soils and pristine waterways, are key parts of the scenic West Granby Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The property also provides linkages to other preserved properties, expanding wildlife corridors.

To support the preservation of Granby’s rural character, become a member of the Granby Land Trust. Family memberships start at $30. To join, go to our website or mail a check to P.O. Box 23, Granby, CT 06035. To learn more about the Granby Land Trust, go to www.GranbyLandTrust.org.

Page 19

TOOTH TALK by MichaelUngerleider D.M.D

Q: Why do my teeth hurt?

A: Pain is not supposed to be there. There are a variety of reasons teeth may hurt, including clenching teeth, a temporomandibular joint disorder, gum disease, an injury, and more. It is important to seek care from a dentist to determine the cause. If something in your mouth doesn’t feel right, make an appointment with a dentist to have it looked at. If you have any of the following symptoms, you should contact a dentist: A Toothache usually indicates a cavity, but can also signal gum disease. In some cases, a toothache is a sign of an abscess or impacted tooth. A toothache should be evaluated by a dentist right away to determine the cause of the problem and prevent the tooth from dying.

If you have tooth sensitivity when you drink hot or cold beverages, you may have a cavity, a fractured tooth, recession. Treatment will depend on the source of sensitivity.

Bleeding or sore gums can be a sign of gingivitis, an early and reversible stage of gum disease, or simply routine. If your gums bleed regularly, this is not normal.

Make an appointment with your dentist or physician, because it could be a sign that something else is wrong.

Mouth Sores: Types of mouth sores include canker sores, cold sores, leukoplakia and candidiasis. They vary in their severity and causes. Mouth sores could be the symptom of a disease or disorder; infection from bacteria, viruses or fungus, or result from irritation caused by braces, dentures or the sharp edge of a

The GLT has preserved one of Granby’s most iconic and oldest agricultural properties: the 45-acre Wilcox Family Farm on Simsbury Road in West Granby.

mouth sore that lasts a week or longer on tongue, lips, cheeks, or gums.

Jaw Pain or Popping/Clicking in the Jaw: Many things

GMHS grad inducted into state Field Hockey Hall of Fame On Sept. 15, Susan Witkos Grigely was honored and inducted into the Connecticut Field Hockey Hall of Fame. Susan, also known as “Grigs,” graduated from Granby Memorial High School in 1986. years under the coaching of Dot Johnson, her greatly respected coach. She was a twelve-letter varsity athlete and voted most athletic in her senior year.

Thanks to Grigely’s leadership and Class S State Championship titles in 1982 and 1985. She earned All-State honors and played on the 1985 Junior Field Hockey team in Iowa.

Grigely was recruited to play Division necticut at Storrs. She graduated with

a BA in Communications in 1990 and has been employed at ESPN for over 29 years.

Grigely continues to play sports, and plays on a women’s ice hockey team, the Northern Connecticut Edge. She has competed in three Ironman events and has been involved in multiple charity events. She is an active member of the

Connecticut Chapter of Achilles International that trains and races alongside adaptive athletes.

Her true compassion comes from helping others achieve their dreams.

Grigely lives in Simsbury with her husband, Paul and her daughters, Maggie and Katie.

to diagnose. Possible causes include sinus problems, toothache, arthritis, injury, teeth grinding, gingivitis or problems in the jaw joint, like Tempero Mandibular source of the pain.

Cracked or Broken Tooth: A cracked or broken tooth can happen for a variety of reasons—brittle teeth, teeth grinding, injury. The crack may be invisible to the painful and create bigger problems if left untreated. If They can diagnose the cause and develop a plan for treatment

your dentist and dental hygienist for a checkup twice a year The doctors and staff of the Granby Dental Center

Dimensions, allowing for more accurate diagnosis and early detection of problems. At the Granby Dental Center, we even offer CEREC, an amazing technology that allows us to fabricate porcelain crowns in just one This revolutionary CAD CAM unit allows us to preserve more natural tooth structure and restore the At the Granby Dental Center, we offer “Smile Vision,” which allows us to take a photograph of your current smile and then alter the photo on the computer to show Are you curious? Come in and ask us about SMILE If you have a question you would like answered, sterilization procedures and to meet our friendly, caring staff, please contact us, or visit our website: www. granbydentalcenter.com Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ GranbyDentalCenter/ practice:

Susan Witkos Grigely and Coach Dot Johnson at the Connecticut Field Hockey Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

Submitted photo

Michael A. Ungerleider, DMD Vipasha Desai, DDS 41 Hartford Avenue, Granby 860-653-3220 Visit our website at: www.granbydentalcenter.com ADVERTISEMENT

Page 20

The Granby Drummer

november 2019

Parks & Recreation Kristine Vincent, CPRP, Director of Recreation and Leisure Services : 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Salmon Brook Park.

Open 24/7 granbyrec.com for program registration Telephone: 860-653-8947 Website: granbyrec.com

Party or Special Event Planning Have your next family or other private event at Salmon Brook Park or Holcomb Farm. The Salmon Brook Park House is a beautiful facility that can accommodate up to 99 people, featuring a gas Pavilion at Holcomb Farm is built to look like a barn but this gorgeous building has all of the modern amenities to make your event for up to 125 people a

comb Farm. Kids stay, you play at the big red barn at Holcomb Farm. Parents and caregivers can relax and enjoy adult conversation, while participating with their children to play, learn, and explore a variety of fun activities. Infants can enjoy soft toys and some tummy time together in the baby area, while toddlers and older children can participate in more physical activities like climbing, sliding, ride-on toys, and a ball pit. $5 per day drop-in, or buy a punch card for $20 and 5th visit is free.

list for Santa. Limited seating available, register today. $8 adults, $12 per child, free for children under 2.

Ski Sundown Registration is open for Wells Road/ Middle School/High School after school ski/snowboard program. Sign up today, limited space is available.

Holiday Glass Paint Night

On Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8, Granby Artists Association and Granby Recreation are pleased to pres-

House. You pick the two glass styles that you would like to paint. All of the supplies needed to create two beautiful glasses will be provided. Keep for yourself or give as a holiday gift. Bring your own snacks and beverages and be ready to have fun. Fee: $35pp.

Holiday Marketplace Event at Holcomb Farm, 113 Simsbury Road, 12 to 4 p.m.

Christmas Countdown: Advent Calendar Project

Holiday Marketplace Event

crafted advent decor. Fill the boxes with small treats and let the countdown begin! Kit includes enough supplies to create 25 mini boxes plus a sturdy outer box to hold them all. Participants are asked to bring their own adhesive and 3D puff dot adhesives, and scissors.

Fee: $55.

Paint Night with Laura Eden Holcomb Farm. Theme is Winter Birches—you will be creating a beautiful watercolor scene under the tutelage of local Granby resident and artist, Laura Eden. All the materials provided. You will be delighted with your masterpiece.

Please feel free to bring your own snacks and beverage of choice. Fee: $40pp.

get more information or visit granbyrec. com to see pictures and rental info.

Youth Basketball Registration Granby Youth Basketball provides basketball instruction in a positive and fun-filled atmosphere. Players will develop individual skills and coaches foster teamwork and proper sportsmanlike attitudes. Granby basketball looks to establish a foundation of basics for future support of the High School programs. The staff works hard to create an opportunity for every child to be with their friends and to make new friends while doing physical activity and making memories that will last a lifetime.

Holcomb Farm Playgroup Wednesdays, 9:30-11AM at the Hol-

diverse variety of arts and crafts, much of it made here in Granby. You will a festive atmosphere listening to local school children’s music performances.

Take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee

Santa’s Breakfast Saturday, Dec. 14, either 8:30 or 10:30 a.m. seating. You and your family are invited to a wonderful event. Includes continental breakfast, a holiday craft, more. Don’t forget to bring your wish

A Thanksgiving Prayer Thank you Heavenly Father for the bountiful harvest.

Thank you for the family and friends who gather around our tables.

Thank you for the happy memories of all who once graced this day.

Thank you for the newborn babies, for they are our future.

Thank you for the elderly who by their wisdom have much to teach us.

Thank you for the beauty of the world you have created.

We remember in our prayers all who are in need.

We welcome the stranger, for in doing so, we welcome you.

May this day be one of true thanksgiving for our Blessings.

And, may we be always mindful of the concerns of others.

Amen.

Bernadette Gentry, 2019

DEMOCRATIC BOARD OF SELECTMEN CANDIDATES Your neighbors working with you - for Granby’s future Now more than ever we need dedicated, informed and experienced public leaders to keep Granby values and actions aligned with the needs and wants of our residents. Our Democratic candidates for Board of Selectmen are fully engaged in our community, where they listen, understand and respond to taxpayers on the issues.

Together, they will help bring the Granby that we all chose for our home into the next decade.

SALLY KING

JIM LOFINK

Sally has lived in Granby with her husband, Eric Lukingbeal, since 1984. She has been a member of the Board of Selectmen since 1993, and also served Granby on the Inland, Wetlands and Watercourses Commission. She is an attorney and a member of the Juvenile Review Board, the DTC, has been active with the Granby Horse Council, and served on the Board of the Village for Families & Children, Inc.

Jim and his family chose Granby in 2005. He has served on the Board of Selectmen since 2015 in addition to the Town Charter Revision Commission, Plan of Conservation & Development Committee, and two Town Building Committees. Jim serves our community through the Granby Land Trust, Granby Senior Center, Salmon Brook Historical Society, Granby Tennis Club and Friends of Holcomb Farm.

Paid for by the Granby Democratic Town Commitee, Audrey Lampert, Treasurer

november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Celebrating The Harvest—Harvest Dinner is Nov. 9 For our farmer, Joe O’Grady, and for our many other talented farming friends in Granby, this fall has delivered a great harvest. We can’t wait to share a taste of it with all who have signed up for the annual Harvest Dinner and Silent Auction for located in the Ensign House, a beautiful old mansion at 690 Hopmeadow Street in Simsbury. There may be a few tickets left at holcombfarm.org.

In addition to amazing food, you can get a jump on your holiday shopping with all sorts of contributions from friends, neighbors and businesses. Want a special piece of local art from Laura Eden? A weekend at the Lost Acres Vineyard B & B—maybe for visiting relatives to stay?

A winter weekend in Vermont? The list is long, and the cause is perfect: Fresh Access is the Friends’ way of raising funds to provide fresh, chemical-free Holcomb

facing a health crisis, and several regional organizations serving people in need.

We can provide this service only if our friends and neighbors support our cause.

We hope you’ll join us for a gourmet meal in a gorgeous setting. Buy your tickets today.

Stewarding the Land Whether you simply enjoy the beauty of Holcomb Farm as you drive by, or park the car and take a stroll on the mowed paths or hiking trails, remember the members of the Friends of Holcomb Farm, whose support makes our work possible (more on this later), and in particular the volunteer stewardship crew.

The crew has been busy with several trails, planting trees, installing interpretive signs, picking rocks (yes—rock sport), and meadow resurrection.

Executing a generous donation from an anonymous donor to rehabilitate the invasive-choked Southeast Field, a team of Friends of Holcomb Farm volunteers picked an estimated 12,000 pounds of rocks from the recently plowed, limed and harrowed southeast field, along Simsbury Road.

mallets to pound the stakes in. I will have suitable rope available for staking. It should be tied very loosely so the tree is not strangled as the trunk grows.

We should plan to leave ten gallons of water in buckets with lids, or in some other kind of containers, beside each tree hole so that the planting can move along quickly.” That’s just a TASTE or the work that goes into this labor of love. Huge thanks to all the volunteers!

Supporting The Friends The Friends of Holcomb Farm want you as a member and supporter, and will be reaching out through mail, email and social media over the next month with

These three elm trees were planted a year ago. They are the Princeton cultivars of the American Elm, Ulmus americana. The same cultivar is planted at the White House. It is resistant to Dutch elm disease. Photo by Eric Lukingbeal.

A team of volunteers also planted 12 new trees, a non-trivial exercise. To offer a glimpse of the work, here is an extract from the instructions sent to the volunteer crew: “Here is the plan for tree planting at Holcomb Farm…. [We] will bring the twelve bare root trees….

These trees are all 8-9 feet tall, 1- or 1.5-inch caliper. We will drop the trees off under a big tarp under the big white oak tree up on the hill…. It’s important to keep the roots from being cooked in the sun. It will kill the tree. The planting sites are to the left (North) of the gravel road as you walk up the hill. We will begin planting, watering the trees in to eliminate all air pockets, staking, and applying the buck rub guards (hardware cloth like last year) at 8:30 a.m., I will bring the hardware cloth, snips, and tape….The holes were all pre-dug and mulched to suppress vegetation a couple months ago. A pile of mulch will be beside each hole. The holes are 42 inches wide by 8-10 inches deep. The single most important thing for these trees is to avoid planting them too deep. above ground. Mulch should not touch the trunk, but stay an inch or so away.

No volcano mulching allowed! We have 36 four-foot wood stakes, which we will leave with the tarp. [We] have rubber

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Page 21

membership organization; an individual or family becomes a member through an annual contribution of $25 or more.

What does “membership” mean? It means you are part of one of the community service organizations that make

The team rests with the rock picking work done. L to R: Jim Lofink, Mark Fiorentino, Eric Lukingbeal, Peggy Lareau, and Jack Lareau. Volunteers not shown are Dave Desiderato, Valorie Hollister and Lynette Simpson. Photo by Lynette Simpson.

cess. Our stewardship work builds and maintains miles of walking and hiking trails open to the public, works to keep beautiful meadows open for wildlife, and has begun to build a Tree Trail for Granby-ites to enjoy for years to come.

You can join (through donation) anytime, at holcombfarm.org. Just look for the “Donate” button.

Follow Us Want to stay abreast of happenings at Holcomb Farm? Follow us on social media, learn about upcoming events on our Facebook page, keep up with what’s in holcombfarmcsa (Instagram) and learn about the plants and trees on the trails Got Rocks? Pictured with the tractor bucket is Jack Lareau. Not pictured is the driver, Jim Lofink. The field was later seeded with a pasture grass mix. Photo

by Eric Lukingbeal.

Granby a great place to live. For the Friends, that means working closely with the town, which owns the property, to protect, preserve, promote, and utilize these monthly articles try to demongrows fresh, chemical-free food for sale select restaurants. Any extra income, together with donations and grants, is used to make this same food available to people in need through Fresh Ac-

(Instagram)

Volunteers Needed The Friends of Holcomb Farm is a volunteer organization, and it is always looking for more people interested in trail maintenance work or getting involved with special projects around the farm. The organization is especially interested in someone with farm equipment mechanical skills.

It is also open to tax-deductible contributions of quality farming equipment. If you have something to share—time or treasure—please contact cathy@holcombfarm.org.

Thanks!

Wishing you a joyous Thanksgiving

Page 22

The Granby Drummer

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

Japanese Barberry Berberis thunbergii DC

Find it A dense bush 2 to 7 feet high, Japanese Barberry has spikey thorns every inch or so along each branch. Small leaves along the branches are green in spring and summer. In the fall it’s easy to identify: the leaves turn bright colors—red, brown, purple, orange—and bright red berries hang in rows along the branches into the winter. Over time, it forms dense, impenetrable concentrations, in full sun or in the partial shade of a forest.

It tolerates a wide range of growing conditions, including drought.

Why it’s a problem Japanese Barberry was imported to the U.S. in the late 1800s and widely planted in landscapes, often as hedges to prevent through passage or in problem areas where other plants did not grow.

Once established, it forms dense thickets that crowd out other plants, change soil chemistry and inhibit forest regeneration.

It spreads by seeds, transported mainly by birds.

Lyme-disease-carrying-ticks love Japanese barberry. UConn’s Agricultural Experiment Station found 10 times more ticks that carry the disease in forests with Japanese barberry. This is probably because the dense thickets are humid, which the tick larvae need, and because they provide protection for white-footed mice, that carry the organisms that cause Lyme disease.

What to do Do not plant it. Numerous varieties continue to be used in landscaping despite their tendency to escape and become invasive. The only safe exceptions are sterile varieties, including some developed by Dr. Mark Brand at UConn.

Remove it. Pull or dig out small plants by the roots as soon they appear to prevent them from spreading. Plants too large to dig out will likely need a twostep approach. First, cut the plant at the base and dispose of it without allowing the seeds to disperse. This can be done in the fall and throughout the winter.

Second, when the stump sends out fresh growth, use a propane torch to burn it.

Glyphosate (Roundup) is also effective, but do not spray. Instead, cut the stems and use a small paintbrush to paint the cut ends to minimize risk. It may be necessary to repeat these steps.

november 2019

White oak planted in celebration of the nation’s first arborist law

By Shirley Murtha

organizations and individuals proposed the Tree Expert Law, which eventually became the Arborist Law in the state’s General Statutes. It requires anyone who wants to Connecticut 100 years ago, the Connecticut sell his or her services as a tree expert must Tree Protective Association (CTPA) prodemonstrate knowledge of trees and tree vided a white oak for each care by taking a rigorous of the state’s 169 towns. exam.

John Kehoe, a state arThe exam includes a borist associated with section on safety — to the University of Conprevent accidents to the necticut, noticed that the arborist, his or her cotree for Granby had not workers, and the public yet been delivered. He at large. The mishancontacted Public Works dling of trees and their Director Kirk Severance, limbs by inexperienced who put him in touch and/or untrained people with Eric Lukingbeal, takes many lives every the board member of the year. Having the wouldFriends of Holcomb Farm be arborist demonstrate who has spearheaded the knowledge of safe techformation of the tree trail niques goes a long way on the eastern property to prevent such bodily of the Farm off of Day harm.

Street.

Three years after the On Sept. 18, the Town First Selectman Scott Kuhnly (r.) passage of the ArborManager, First Selectman placed the first shovelful of dirt ist Law, the CTPA was and Friends of Holcomb while Friends of Holcomb Farm formed in 1922 to help Farm gathered to plant board member Eric Lukingbeal looked on. Photo by Shirley Murtha train those applying to the tree. obtain an arborist license.

Around the turn of the 20th Century, The association counts over 800 members the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment today. The state currently has close to 1,000 Station recognized that there were no licensed arborists. regulations regarding who could call themUnfortunately, not many states are as self an arborist. Many self-appointed tree strict in training and licensing arborists. In experts were far from it, and often caused fact, the majority of states do not require damage to trees that were being attacked by the gypsy moth and chestnut blight disease cut does, speaks to the importance our state as well as other ordinary problems. places on trees and their safe, intelligent The Experiment Station and other handling.

To celebrate the passage of the nation’s

ON NOVEMBER 5, 2019

VOTE TO KEEP GRANBY SCHOOLS STRONG FIORENTINO — WEBER — PELING

Community Leader MARK FIORENTINO

Public Service ROSEMARIE WEBER

Experience in Education DAVID PELING

Mark is completing his sixth year on the Granby Board of Education. Mark has served on the Board’s Finance subcommittee for six years and has served as the Board’s Vice Chair for the last two years. Mark is a government affairs lawyer, with more than 25 years of experience working with, and for, businesses and government entities at the local, regional, state and federal levels.

Mark’s other public service includes: Kelly Lane School Building Committee, Granby representative to the Capital Area Education Council, Capital Program Priorities Advisory Committee, Granby Conservation Commission, Granby Plan of Conservation and Development Advisory Committee, Friends of Holcomb Farm, Coach for Granby travel and rec. basketball and Little League, Granby Bears football volunteer, Granby Drummer Columnist, First Congregational Church Youth Group Advisory Committee on Funding.

Mark and his wife, Kristal have two children; Gage, a GMHS graduate and junior at UCONN, and Ellie, a GMHS senior.

Rosemarie is our longest serving Board of Education member and has used her experience to ensure academic excellence for all students, policies that keep our children safe, and challenging curriculum that prepare our students for the future. Rosemarie currently serves as Secretary of Granby’s Board of Education and has served as the Chair of the Curriculum subcommittee for the last six years.

Rosemarie graduated from the University of Pennsylvania where she was also commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army through the ROTC program. Following her active duty military service, Rosemarie graduated from Quinnipiac University School of Law and serves the State of Connecticut as a child protection attorney.

Rosemarie and her husband, Chris (also a veteran) believe strongly in public service. Rosemarie is the past Chair of Citizens for a Better Granby (Granby Drummer), a lector and active member of her church community, and helps build homes for Habitat for Humanity. Rosemarie and Chris have three Granby Bears – Benjamin (8th grade), Jennifer (6th grade), and Christopher - a recent GMHS graduate.

Dave has worked as a teacher and high school principal since 1994. During his tenure as principal of East Granby High School, EGHS received numerous state and national recognitions for academic excellence. Dave believes that a rigorous curriculum that challenges all students to develop 21st century skills is the key to preparing students to be productive and contributing members of society.

Dave graduated from the University of Arizona with a degree in Russian Studies. After studying and working in the USSR, Dave returned to school, earned a master’s degree in history and started teaching

Paid for by the Granby Republican Town Committee

from UCONN and is currently a doctoral candidate in Educational Leadership.

Dave and his wife Colleen have lived in Granby since 2005. Dave has coached Little League and BearCats youth football. They have two children in Granby public schools.

november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Page 23

Granby Education Foundation brings arts, lifelong learning to Granby For the past 20 years, the Granby Education Foundation has funded more than totaling over $375,000 in educational and artistic programming. Last year, grants were awarded to six Granby nonpositively impacting residents of all ages.

These grants included music and dance performances, robotics funding, culinary arts instruction to children of military families dealing with PTSD, and an intergenerational book club. Two grants stood out to the board as particularly engaging to the community.

This past year, GEF expanded its vision of the arts to include the culinary arts with a $6,000 grant awarded to local non-

a resilience curriculum woven throughout to better equip the chil-

dedicated to improving our food system through community-based agriculture, nutrition education, and youth empowerment. The grant funded two one-week sessions of Jr. Chef Boot Camp this summer. The camp taught culinary skills as well as resilience building for children of Connecticut National Guard veterans suffering from PTSD. Jr. Chef participants explored the culinary arts, food systems, nutrition, leadership, and teamwork with

situations they may face.

In its twentieth year, the GEF also completed funding a two-year special project to help establish a Strings Program for grades K-3. With the $40,000 grant, the schools purchased violins, bows, and cases for students at Kelly Lane Primary School and Wells Road Intermediate School.

During violin class, students listen to orchestral music, warm Young cooks learned about culinary and life skills at the Jr.

Blessing of the Animals

Chef Boot Camp, a summer camp organized by Nourish My Soul.

to rhythms, practice Submitted photo how to hold the violin and bow, and the importance of respecting and caring for the instrument. Many students are already beginning to play songs on their violins.

The GEF is proud to offer grants to all munity Grants support creative and innovative projects that increase knowledge and skills, expand perspectives, and enrich understanding. Arts Endowment Grants help fund opportunities that broaden our exposure to music, dance, and visual arts. In addition, the GEF has two endowed tribute funds that support First Congregational Church of Granby held its annual blessing of the animals service in September. Above, Pastor Todd, gives a blessing to Malcolm with Deacon Beth Lindsay assisting.

At left, Charlie receives his blessing from Pastor Todd Yonkman and Deacon Beth Lindsay.

Photos by Lisa Reinhardt

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apply for any grant that totals $750 or less may apply for a mini-grant, which offers a faster and more streamlined application process. For more information about the GEF and the grants it has awarded or for grant applications, please visit granbyeducationfoundation.org.

The Granby Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that continues to thrive, thanks to generous donations from the public. Donations can be made online through the website or sent to: Granby Education Foundation, P.O. Box 351, Granby, CT 06035.

Working together, the GEF will continue to enrich the community with quality arts and education programming for Granby residents of all ages.

Tribute Fund supports grants for youth public service and the Nannie Brown Tribute Fund backs early education

Public Works Transfer Station hours: the transfer station will be open Wednesday mornings through Nov. 13.

Household Hazardous waste collection: Saturday, Nov. 9, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Simsbury DPW facility, 66 Town Forest Rd., Simsbury.

A list of accepted items is available on the Town of Granby website. The following additional services will be provided: Electronics recycling (items with Freon not accepted) and document shredding, special hours 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or until truck is full. Two box limit per resident. For information on either event, call the Granby DPW at 860-653-8960.

Trash Holiday: Please be aware that Thursday, Nov. 28 (Thanksgiving) is a holiday for Paine’s and all Thursday and Friday trash/recycling pickups will be delayed by one day that week.

Confused about which holidays will mean a change in your pickup schedule?

Sign up for e-mail alerts from Paine’s Inc. Don’t worry they won’t swamp if there is a holiday or weather event that will affect trash service. Sign up at painesinc.com

Extra Trash: What do you do if you have extra trash? In these instances, town approved extra-trash bags are available for purchase. The bags are $2 each. Paine’s will pick up ONLY these designated purple bags. Place the purple bags next to your trash barrel on your regular trash day. The extra-trash bags are available at Granby Public Works, 52 North Granby Rd. from 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday or from the Transfer Station attendant during Transfer Station hours.

subseven Locally Owned

860.653.6630 info@subseven.net Supporting the Farmington Valley.

Digital Workflow.

Computers.

Networks.

Digital Security.

Page 24

The Granby Drummer

november 2019

Foxfield F.A.R.M. Foundation

Foxfield F.A.R.M. (For A Recovery Mission) is a nonprofit foundation dedicated to supporting U.S. veterans and first responders.

Support from Northwest Community Bank -

Foxfield F.A.R.M. third year at Stand Down Day

-

-

L-R: Annelise Hurley, AVP, Branch Manager Granby Branch, Susan Patricelli Regan, President of Foxfield F.A.R.M Foundation, Lindsay West, Assistant Manager Granby Branch.

CTVV: Oakhill School largest private provider of services to people with disabilities -

CTVV’s host, Susan Patricelli Regan spoke with Oak Hill School’s Chief Administrator Ana Wittig and Barry M. Simon president and CEO Oak Hill to objectives and breadth of programs. Oak Hill School is a private state-approved special-education school creatively meet-

ing the needs of each individual student.

They offer a 12-month communitybased education program for day and residential students. The program serves students with moderate to severe disabilities from ages 3 to 21. In addition, Oak Hill provides a full range of services to physical of all ages, from newborns to seniors and veterans. Visit oakhillct.org for more information. See your local public access station airing schedule to view this segment or all of CTVV programs at ctvalleyviews.com

Commissioner Thomas Saadi and Susan Patricelli Regan, President of Foxfield F.A.R.M.

-

Hometown Foundation makes generous donation -

november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Page 25

Browse & Borrow Granby Public Library

Let’s Talk Turkey

Writing The Artist’s Way

-

Main Branch -

Book Groups Something About the Author

-

Around the World -

Beneath a Scarlet Sky

Cossitt Branch

The Artist’s Way -

Children and Families Zumba For Kids

Resolve To Be Ready!

Holiday Closings

Chess, Anyone?

Kids’ Clothing Swap Hell On Wheels—The Wild West Movie Matinee

Yoga For Kids

Adults, teens, tweens and families

Make A Mini Gingerbread House

Author Talk with Serene Hackel Cossitt Writers Group Intro To Emotional Freedom Technique -

Skipper Goes to War: The True Story of a Pilot and His Dog

Craft Week -

-

-

Family Movie Night -

You Can Uke

-

Steam Lab

Crafters Café

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-

Chess Club -

Mostly Makers

-

Meadowbrook of Granby holds bake sale for Epilepsy Foundation

-

Story Time Preschool Story Time

Author Talk with Steve Rushin Wee Ones Story Time magazine, picks up where StingRay Afternoons

Nights -

in White Castle Granby Gets Street-Wise

Meadowbrook resident Tom Pelletier, and Michael Carrin, assistant director of recreation.

Submitted photo

Bedtime Stories for the “I’m-NotTired”

Coming in early December An Astronomical View Of The Christmas Star -

Page 26

Familiar Favorites Women’s Breakfast: Wednesday, Nov. 6, 8:30 a.m. The Art of Glass Blowing, with Annukka Ritalahti. Cost $4. To register, call 860-653-9891.

Men’s Breakfast: Friday, Nov. 8, 8:30 a.m. Post Mark Collecting with John Flint, Andy Mitchell and Kelvin Kendall. Cost $2. To register, call 860844-5352.

Lend A Helping Hand: Wednesday, Nov. 20, 9 a.m.—12 p.m. Please join Days for Girls International (daysforgirls.org) sewing for women in need of sanitary products. Need both sewers and non-sewers to volunteer.

To learn more please call Josie Klein at 860-653-5752 or email josiklein640@ gmail.com.

Health And Wellness NEW Reiki Sessions: Tuesdays, Nov. 12 and 26, by appointment. Tannia Hotchkiss, Reiki Practitioner. Reiki promotes healing, stress relief and relaxation in a calm, quiet setting.

Alzheimer ’s Support Group: Tuesday, Nov. 12, 10 a.m. Peggy Coburn, McLean Home Care and Hospice. Caring for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming.

Learning to cope with the changes in their behavior and understanding how to handle it is sometimes best explained by those who are dealing with a similar situation. Free.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Thursdays at noon.

Grandparents who are raising their grandchildren join others to share friendships, tips and ideas on being a parent again. Free.

MS Support Group: Monday, Nov. 25, 1 p.m. Self-help group for persons with Multiple Sclerosis and their caregivers.

On Grief and Loss: Wednesdays, Nov. 13 and 27, 2:30 p.m. Led by Jane Johnson. Through discussion this nontherapeutic support group will help you in understanding and coping with grief. strategies.

The Granby Drummer

Foot Care Clinic with Pedi-Care: Monday, Nov. 18 and Friday, Nov. 22.

A specially trained nurse will assess clean nails. Cost is $29. (Not covered by insurance). Call 860-844-5352 for an appointment.

Free Blood Pressure Checks: Every Thursday, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Farmington Valley VNA, held in the Senior Center Community Room.

Free Blood Sugar Checks: First Thursday of the month, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Farmington Valley VNA, held in the Senior Center Community Room.

Chair Massage with Bev Harris: Tuesdays, Nov. 5 and 19. Concentration is on upper and lower back and shoulders.

Fifteen minutes is $10.

Travel For extended tours and travel please visit granby-ct.gov.

The Granby Senior Van provides rides for adults 60 and over to shopping and activities at the Senior Center. Please call 860-844-5353 one week in advance for scheduling, and 860-844-5352 to register for all trips.

Dine and Drive, Maine’s Fish House, East Windsor on Wednesday, Nov. 6.

Cost $5.

Day Excursions Meade Art Museum: Wednesday, Nov. 13, depart 8:45 a.m., with estimated return 3 p.m. The Meade Art Museum houses the art collection of Amherst College spanning 5,000 years and encompassing the creative achievements of many world cultures.

Lunch on your own at Johnny’s Tavern.

Cost $5. Register by Nov. 6.

Yankee Candle: Friday, Nov. 22, depart 9 a.m., with estimated return 3 p.m. Visit the fabulous Yankee Candle Store including the Candle Emporium, General Store, Kitchen Shop, Gift Boutique, thousands of Christmas Ornaments and more. Make your own custom candle (additional charge) or buy tasty treats including homemade fudge, gourmet popcorn, or 125 different types of candies. Lunch on your own at Farm Table. Cost $5.

november 2019

November Highlights Visit granby-ct.gov/senior-services or check your Center Life Newsletter for a complete listing of health services, support groups, clubs and ongoing activities. To register call 860-844-5352.

His Garden—Conversations With a Serial Killer in CT Wednesday, Nov. 13, 1 p.m. Presented by Anne Howard, attorney and author. His Garden

Cooley’s Pottery Flowers class earlier this year, you want to make sure you sign up for this event.

With instructor Cooley Buy, you will make holiday ornaments to hang on your tree, for gifts or for home decorating. This is a two-part class. Cost $25 members, $30 non-members. Call to register.

Wigs and Giggles Monday, Nov. 4, 10 a.m. Presented by Jan Webber. Have you ever wondered what you’d look

serial killer. A practicing attorney, author Anne

out. Join us for this fun and entertaining morning as we put on a “new” look just in time for the holidays.

Try different wigs, accessories and more to create a new you. Cost $5 members, $7 non-members.

Call to register.

Connecticut Icons

serving a 15-year sentence for the murder of one of his seven victims. A unique and disturbing friendship between the two began, comprised of written correspondence, face-to-face prison visits and recorded phone calls. Hear her story. Cost $5 members, $7 non-members. Register by Nov. 6.

Thanksgiving Luncheon Thursday, Nov. 21, 12 p.m. This annual favorite traditional Thanksgiving Dinner with turkey, mashed Cost $6 members, $8 non-members. Register by Nov. 14.

Pottery Ornaments Fridays, Nov 1 and 8, 1 p.m. If you missed

Tuesday, Nov. 19, 1 p.m. Presented by Charles Monagan, author. Charles Monagan knows Connecticut. As editor of Connecticut Magazine he has spent years discovering and describing the people, places, and things that comprise the character of his home state.

Monagan presents 50 of his favorite icons, U.S.S. Nautilus to the Merritt Parkway. Cost $5 members, $7 non-members. Register

by Nov. 12.

Get Fit Granby—New Classes Added The Granby Senior Center offers a variety of affordable exercise classes throughout the week for anyone 25 and older. Only $6/ class for Granby residents when you pay the session price. Intensity levels range from house cat to cheetah. Classes run by session or you can pay a drop-in fee.

NEW Cardio Pilates Early Morning: Thursdays at 5:30 a.m. This class combines Pilates, hand weights and cardio into one workout that is fun and effective. Includes Pilates core exercises with classic lifting moves and low-to-no impact cardio bursts never be bored! Instructor, Mellanee Harmon.

NEW On the Ball: Thursdays at 4:30 p.m.

This class incorporates the use of large stability balls for core and balance training with weighted medicine balls for muscle strengthening and small play balls for isometric muscle building. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

NEW HIIT: Sundays at 7:30 a.m. This high intensity interval training class will incorporate strength and cardiovascular training for a great full body workout that will increase strength and maximize your calorie burn.

Instructor, Jennifer Dzielak.

Yoga Flow: Mondays at 9:45 a.m.

Emphasis is given to finding a balance

somewhat helpful but not required. Instructor, Mary Fuller.

Gentle Movement and Balance: Mondays at 11:15 a.m. Designed to gently stretch

muscles and joints to promote flexibility.

Leg and core strengthening to help with Fall Prevention. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

Chair Yoga: Tuesdays at 2:30 p.m.

Enhanced breathing, seated and standing and core strengthening. Guided meditation manner. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

Yoga: Tuesdays at 4 p.m. Strength building sequences, standing and on the mat.

Includes balance and Pilates floor work.

Instructor, Paula Pirog.

Tone-up Tune-up: Wednesdays at 9:45 a.m. A low-impact cardiovascular workout with intervals of weight work for upper and lower body strengthening. Does not go to standing. Instructor, Mary Fuller.

Body Blast: Wednesdays at 4:15 p.m. This fast paced class gives you an all-around great workout. Instructor, Mary Fuller Chi Gong: Fridays at 8:30 a.m. A gentle, low-impact, standing or seated class pain management. Chi Gong is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. Instructor, Mary Ellen Mullins Cardio Combo: Fridays at 9:45 a.m.

Quicker pace and more aerobics. Instructor, Mary Fuller.

Line Dancing: Fridays at 1 p.m. Get a solid hour workout while enjoying many musical forms. Learn steps and sequences, develop balance and your own personal style.

Instructor Jim Gregory.

november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Page 27

Lizzy Cappelli: Running toward a bright future

By Jennifer Russell Benson

(this early in her senior year, she doesn’t know where yet), she plans to acclimate

With a beautiful, confident stride, socks, Lizzy Cappelli stands out in the pack at an October cross country meet at Granby Memorial High School. Another woman runs close beside her because Lizzy is blind. Shouts of encouragement, “Go Lizzy!” follow her. Later, chatting with teammates after the 5K race and cheering on the boys’ team, Lizzy very much blends in and is a part of normal high school life.

Lizzy has been blind since birth; she has no sight in her right eye and is legally blind in her left eye. Twenty-seven weeks into Anne Cappelli’s pregnancy, she went into labor. The doctors performed a Csection, and Lizzy was born to Anne and husband Tony Cappelli on Sept. 13, 2001 weighing one pound, two ounces.

Born with retinopathy of prematurity, a condition common in preemies that causes growth of abnormal blood vessels that can bleed into the eye, laser surgery had to be performed. It caused a pulled retina, resulting in Lizzy’s blindness. Steroids had to be used to help Lizzy breathe, but with the risk of severe side effects: cerebral palsy, a permanently hoarse voice, and more. Rather than bemoaning Lizzy’s blindness, Tony and Anne were grateful that worse had not happened.

Lizzy was discharged from Connecticut Children’s Medical Center at seven with numerous medical devices to ensure her survival. At home, big sister Angela, four years old, awaited. The Cappelli family met the challenges of blindness with positivism, curiosity and a view toward inclusion.

During summers and weekends over the years, Lizzy has attended programs through national and regional organizations supporting the blind. She trained in self-defense, marine biology, cooking, swam with Paralympian swimmers,

Krista Iwanicki volunteers as a guide for Lizzy Capelli. Photos by Jennifer Benson

trained with Amy Bower, an oceanographer who is blind and kayaked the Grand Canyon with a group led by Erik Weihenmayer, author of No Barriers, who also is blind.

Having a family member with a disability shapes a family. According to Nancy E. Reichman et al. on Medscape.com, “it is a unique shared experience... and can affect all aspects of family functioning--it can broaden horizons, increase family members’ awareness of their inner strength, enhance family cohesion…” It encouraged Tony to pursue two Master’s degrees—one in teaching the visually impaired and the other in orientation and mobility—and the profession of teacher (with Perkins School for the Blind).

The Cappellis raise a guide dog, Kiki, for Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Kiki will live with them for 18 months to be socialized. Next year, when Lizzy is at college

dog her sophomore year because she must train the dog to then guide her.

An intelligent, interesting, curious and vibrant young woman, Lizzy has lived her eighteen years in Granby, attending Granby Public Schools. She recently received the Superintendent’s Award for scholarship. Her favorite subjects are AP environmental science and Spanish. In college (and perhaps beyond) she may study to become a disability lawyer or an architect of barrier-free buildings.

Although Lizzy knows Braille, she uses other methods to read and write. Some are as simple as using large print books, holding books close to her face, writing bent over close to the page, memorizing the keyboard and using a monocular, a single eye device to help her see the whiteboard.

Technology also assists: Lizzy listens to audio books, has the contrast inverted on her computer and uses ZoomText Magnifier/Reader and NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) screen reader software.

Encouraged by friends, in 9th grade, Lizzy went out for the cross country team. Now a senior, Lizzy is co-captain.

She runs because “sports are a stress reliever.”An all-round student-athlete, Lizzy also swims on the swim team. Lizzy for six years. In her spare time, she hangs out with friends or listens to audiobooks.

When asked if it is scary to run blind, Lizzy recounted that for three years she ran with no guide, and it was “super scary.” In one race, she cried the whole ished the whole race.

Running with Lizzy at the early October race was Krista Iwanicki (GMHS

class of 2015), who volunteers with Achilles International. Achilles’ mission “is to empower people with all types of disabilities to participate in mainstream running events…” and “to bring hope, inspiration, and the joys of achievement to all” (source: website). At practices, Coach Kathy Lundin runs beside Lizzy.

28:36, bettering her previous score by over two minutes. One can see that Lizzy is on a path to continue to excel and reach beyond any limitations imposed by her blindness. Firmly grounded in a loving family, and with a community of supporters cheering her on, Lizzy is running toward her bright future.

Lizzy Capelli and Kiki, a guide dog the family is training.

Page 28

The Granby Drummer

HISTORIC FOOTNOTES CAROL LAUN

Archivist, Salmon Brook Historical Society

A tale of three churches, part 2

Many attempts were made to revitalize the Salmon Brook Ecclesiastical Society.

In April 1831, it was voted to build a new church, in the geographical center of Granby. And of course, a new controversy raged over the proposed location.

In August, 35 members left, joining the Methodists in West Granby or the Baptists on North Granby near Day Street.

The church was at its lowest point.

Loyal members tried fasting, humility and prayer. They met and counseled with those who dropped out. A vigorous temperance campaign resulted in a brief revival in membership.

According to James Hayes: “Finally, the old church was so bad they thought it best to build a new one. Rev. Porter was so much behind the times they thought it best to dismiss him and get a younger man. After quite a hard struggle, they did.”

Rev. Porter was asked to resign in November 1832. He demanded a year’s salary of $300, which was raised by subscription and donation. On December 31, 1832, after 38 years, Rev. Isaac Porter preached his farewell sermon.

Porter had been living at 45 Bushy Hill Road. He spent the rest of his life in the house on the corner of Mechanicsville and North Granby Roads (torn down in 1967). Isaac Porter died in 1844 at the age of 78. His epitaph reads: “A faithful expounder of the Gospel, his life exemhimself as their Pastor or seeing them

bestowed upon others, he remained the same peaceful, peace-making holy man of GOD.” This laudatory tombstone might have been erected by his former parishioners to assuage the guilt caused by the dismissal and neglect of their Puritan preacher.

The building of the present First Congregational Church in 1833 was conceived in dissent and constructed virtually as a bribe to the new minister.

Rev. Charles Bentley agreed, in 1832, to be the minister for $500 a year if the congregation would decide on a site for the Meeting House, build it the next year and also build a parsonage within a reasonable time.

A committee from different parts of town selected a site at the “corner of the roads south of the house of Hezekiah Goodrich (235 North Granby Road).”

The building committee consisted of Cullen Hayes, Oren H. Lee and Jefferson Cooley. In 1833, they signed a contract with Benjamin E. Palmer of Brooklyn, Connecticut. build the church for $3300 and “complete it in the modern style of building and in the best manner.” The contract also speciBaptist Meeting House in Southington” and that the “pulpit should be equal in expense to the Simsbury Meeting House pulpit.”

The new meeting house was to be 61 by 40 feet, with beams of oak and “no chest-

november 2019

nut to be used where liable to occasion stain.” The building committee agreed to build a basement 40 by 40 feet and use “Manitick stone” for underpinning. The church would rise two stories and include a bell tower.

The interior had a gallery on three sides, with two tiers of seats, supported with iron rods. The main floor had a lobby and a center aisle with pews or slips on each side. First Congregational Church Two chimneys were built and the stoves were moved from 2. The practice of eating fruits, nuts and the old Meeting House. (Stoves had been other provisions and strewing the fragpurchased, contrary to Hayes’ memoirs, ments about the house should be entirely as seen in church records.) relinquished.

3. The presence of dogs in the Meeting numbered and each pew was sold to the House is a nuisance and the owners be highest bidder. Deeds were given for the unconditionally required to keep them pews. William Dewey paid $12 for pew entirely away from the house.

4. For any other prevailing habits a The 1834 diary of Eliza Ann Colton sand box be recommended for each pew. revealed that the cornerstone was laid at A spit box was also put up in the lobby a ceremony on March 25. A month later for these prevailing habits. The necessity the Meeting House was raised and over for these rules creates a rather astonishing 50 women provided a feast for the workpicture of early church services. ers. Eliza said, “A very pleasant day, had There is a continuity here, reaching good luck and there was no one hurt.” back to that barn-like church of 1740.

On November 25, 1834, she wrote, “I It was taken down and rebuilt in 1775. attended the Dedication of the new MeetThat church in turn was taken down and ing House. The text was in Jeremiah 6 the boards, underpinning and step stones chapter 16 – ‘thus saith the Lord, Stand were used in building the new church ye in the way and see and ask for the old in 1834. path, where is the good way and walk quintessential New England church. soul.’ A great many attended.”

A set of bylaws was adopted December problems and change, a stronger church 29 to prevent the defacing of the new evolved—still growing, changing and Meeting House. meeting the needs of the congregation 1. Use of tobacco in any of its preparaand the town. tions is unbecoming in the Sanctuary and a habit that ought to be abolished.

november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Page 29

Bell choir presents holiday program Dec. 8

GLT honors heroes Seth and Lucy Holcombe Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “A great man is always willing to be little.” Seth and Lucy Holcombe, who donated 150 acres of land in North Granby to the Granby Land Trust in 2016, were great—and humble— people. They did not donate their land to the GLT in order to make others remember their names.

But remember their names, we will.

The GLT recently installed a kiosk

and sign at the trailhead (above) to the Seth and Lucy Holcombe Preserve trail system. The signage honors Seth and Lucy Holcombe for their generosity in donating 150 acres of land to the GLT. Located off of Silver Street in North Granby, this is a great place for a hike.

Enjoy it and remember, with gratitude, the humble and generous people who decided to preserve this property forever.

Drumrolls Robert William Kelsey was named to the dean’s list at Wentworth Institute of Technology for the school’s summer 2019 semester.

Kerry Gilmore was awarded the Monsignor Fagan award at the Elms College her freshman year with a 4.0 and made the dean’s list both semesters. Kerry is studying for her BS in nursing.

Kyle Gilmore, Class of 2020, made sity. Kyle is studying for his BSBA in accounting.

Connor Field, a member of the Worcester Polytechnic Institute football team, was selected as WPI Men’s Student-Athlete of the Week ending Sept. 8.

He was also named the offensive athlete of the week for Sept. 29.

The Bruce Porter Memorial Music Series welcomes back The New England Ringers for their “Christmas Around the World” program at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 8.

Hear beloved Christmas and Hanukkah music on a six-octave set of Schulmerich Handbells and a six-octave set of tubular bells called Choirchimes. The largest of the bronze bells, the G2, weighs 12 pounds, 2 ounces, and the smallest bell, the G8, weighs less than seven ounces!

In December 2017, the inventive and brilliant arrangements of the New England Ringers drew handbell enthusiasts and directors of church handbell choirs from all over New England for their concert at South Church. The concert was standing room only. So come early to get a good seat. Admission is free, with a suggested donation of $15. The church

is wheelchair accessible from a side door.

The Bruce Porter Memorial Music Series is held at South Congregational Church, 242 Salmon Brook St., and is supported by the music ministry of South Church and a grant from the Granby Education Foundation.

Handbells and tubular bells.

Submitted photo

In Memory Of ...

LaBonte, Roger Nelson, Sr., husband of the late Mary Ann LaBonte, Sept. 12 Mullen, Richard “Dick” Hutchinson, 84, husband of Julia (Burdeshaw) Ellen Mullen, Sept. 16 Gallant, Paul, 73, husband of Margaret Gallant, Sept. 15 Storer, Veronica (Supko), 95, wife of the late William Storer, Sr., Sept. 18 Yazvac, Thomas “Tom” Andrew, 85, husband of Kay Ales Yazvac, Sept. 20 Schupp, Katharine “Kay” (Zayac), 100, wife of the late August Henry “Bud” Schupp, Jr., Sept. 30 Blackburn, Scott Eddy, Sr., 60, former husband of Michelle Blackburn, Oct. 2 Brown, Ruth E., 91, wife of the late Philip Brown, Oct. 2 Garcia, Lynn A., 54, wife of Tom Garcia, Oct. 2

Zeiner, Brian L., 82, husband of Susan T. Zeiner, Oct. 9 Mullen, Julia Ellen “Judy” (Burdeshaw), 80, wife of the late Richard H. Mullen, Oct. 10 Duggan, Owen Edward, 84, husband of the late Diane Duggan, Oct. 11 Russell, Walter Earle “Doc”, 91, husband of Cynthia Johnson Russell, Oct. 11 Michaud, Virginia G. “Ginny” (Lawrence), 91, wife of the late Dick Michaud, Oct. 13 Begansky, Wendy (Hayes), 61, wife of the late Ronald John Begansky, Oct. 15 Nesto, Donald F., husband of the late Mary Ann Nesto, Oct. 18 McNary, Esther Jane (Ferriss), 86, wife of the late Arthur McNary, Oct. 17

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Page 30

The Granby Drummer local families, Judge Edward Dewey and Harvey Goddard had offered free land if the library was located on their property.

Goddard lived at 58 Granville Road near Silver Street and Judge Dewey lived at 367 North Granby Road. Willis Phelps

Cossitt Library

History of The Cossitt Library

Part One: The Remarkable Gift

By Ken Kuhl In 1887, Frederick H. Cossitt died in New York City. The passing of one who had lived his childhood in Granby and then moved on was not much of an event of note in a town that had seen many of its children leave for greener pastures in the 1820s and 1830s. However, Frederick Cossitt had made millions for himself in retailing, and in his will left $10,000 (over $250,000 in 2019 dollars) to the “Corporation of North Granby” for the purpose of building a “free public library.” The residents of Granby were in total disbelief but, after sending a committee to New York to investigate, they found that the amazing rumor was fact that there was no such “corporation” of North Granby. However, the Cossitt children were anxious to fulfill their father’s wishes and so the money was sent to the town. A library building was a common philanthropic gift employed by many businessmen of this age especially those who had moved away and made their fortunes elsewhere.

Thus, at a town meeting held in Granby in June of 1889, it was resolved that a free public library by the name of Cossitt Library of Granby would be established.

It was further resolved that the library would be located in North Granby on or near the homestead occupied by the original Cossitt family home.

With money from the bequest available, the town decided in 1891 to build a structure in North Granby across the street from Cossitt’s boyhood home now 377 North Granby Road. They appointed a library board of directors with the authority to oversee the project and gave instructions to the Town Treasurer to deposit the amount of $10,000 with the Iowa Mortgage Company. Amazingly, tions in Granby in years (the most recent had been the town green). Interestingly, when the library was built, Granby did not even have a town hall.

A local newspaper article of the time indicated a more grandiose structure was being planned and that the town wanted to spend $5,000 for a brick building with a slate roof. There was also discussion of putting a good-sized hall in the basement for public meetings, dances and the like.

The article suggested that the library be located in the southwest corner of Mountain Road and North Granby Road on land owned by Willis Phelps. Mr. Phelps had, at that time, owned a building known as the Phelps Hall where events similarly to those proposed for the lower level of the Cossitt Library were held.

When the library directors met in November of 1889 to consider a location and purchasing a lot, they found that the Phelps property on the corner had increased in value considerably. Two other

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on December 27 of 1889, a lot located opposite Phelps Corner was purchased from Julius Hayes, for $200. Although there was an early Colonial house located on that corner, Edward Dewey was paid $44 to remove the old building, dig a dation. Through research, it was found that this old home had originally been a Cossitt residence. Thus, the new library would be located where family members of the Cossitt family had resided many years earlier.

In charge of the whole enterprise was one of Harvey Goddard’s sons, George Seymour Goddard, a student at Wesleyan who had returned to his home town and Middletown architect, Jasper Daniel Sibley who designed the building. Mr. Goddard and Mr. Sibley were men of vision. Goddard went on from his new position as librarian of the Cossitt Library to become librarian for the State of Connecticut. He also supervised the construction and development of the present State Library in Hartford. According to discovered records, Mr. Jasper Sibley was paid $153.10 for his architectural and miscellaneous services. described in a newspaper article to be a 24 by 36-foot building with the library on coming in from above. Portable bookcases were to be used with shelves low

november 2019 library was to be raised and a hall built in the basement if enough money could be raised. In May of 1890, the board of directors accepted an offer in an amount equal to $3,370 from TJ Green of Westbuilding according to the plans and specs for construction of Jasper Sibley Ford.

Certainly, Cossitt Library remains a very important institution in the life of Granby today. Even now, it stands out among its surroundings as a rather odd piece of architecture for a farming community.

Its Queen Anne style windows, roof and other decorative work would be a good fit for a late Harvey Goddard Victorian urban neighborhood. Of course, that would have been what the board of directors hoped North Granby would become.

They had planted the seed of order and civility among the apple orchards and cider mill and then expected it to grow and bear a non-fermenting fruit.

Please watch for the next installment, “The Construction,” for more history of the Cossitt Library.

Excerpts from this article were taken from Mark Williams’ book, A Tempest in A Small Town and Centennial, a book

by Carol Laun and Gladys Godard, celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Cossitt Library in 1991.

november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Page 31

Granby Memorial High School’s announces production of

HEALTH NOTES

By the

Farmington Valley VNA

James and the Giant Peach

Social Media: Are You Losing the Game of LIKES? computers or smartphones. I recall heading to college with an electric typewriter feeling fortunate as typing would be so much easier than with a manual machine.

Show a typewriter to young people today, and they may not even know what it is.

With the click of a button or the swipe a second. Whether young or old, much of what we do on a routine basis has become electronic. Sending a birthday card or making a direct telephone call to chat message. The computer has become the phone, library, bank, map, and shopping store of today. The technology of today has enabled almost all of us to master a smartphone, and it becomes our lifeline. Is all this technology a good thing, especially when it is also our social life?

Social media are computer-mediated technologies that allow us to create and share information and other forms of expression through virtual communities.

Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are just a few of the more popular platforms. Just walk in a public place and look around as a casual observer. It sometimes alarms me how many people are face down, buried in the latest post. I have watched as people walk into poles or cross streets without looking. Sit idly at a restaurant and watch a neighboring table as no one is talking to each other, but rather staring at their phones. But does it matter how many people “LIKE” your post? Should we continue to spend countless hours arguing a political point via Twitter or Facebook?

Can the inescapable drift into the world of social media be harmful? The unfortunate answer is yes. Like it or not, social media and the rapidly changing world of technology can be harmful to our health.

Research substantiates that increased social media use can lead to depression and anxiety. The burden of mental illness is not to be understated. In the U.S. alone, the economic burden of depression is $210 billion (1). Those that suffer from anxiety and depressive disorders have decreased work productivity, a tendency towards other illnesses, and in the worstcase scenario, even an increased rate of suicide. For young adults, depression and anxiety may increase the risk of substance abuse, poor academic performance, and suicide (2-5).

While no one would argue that anything

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that impacts the rates of these critical illnesses should be something we look to vs. effect. Does excessive social media use lead to depression, or do people that suffer from anxiety tend to hide in excessive use of social media? Certainly, those that are depressed or anxious may have greater tendencies to use social media because they can remain anonymous.

Could it make sense to believe that the more we spend time on a social media site, the less time we spend face to face, interacting daily with the world? Isolation leads to deeper anxiety or depression.

Are we being kept from our family, our responsibilities, exercise, and friendships because we are vicariously living through other’s Facebook and Instagram posts? Is comparison living keeping us from living ourselves?

Do we ever post TMI or “too much information,” leaving ourselves open to those who might not have our best interests in mind? Why do we post or reply to posts with words that we might not say to each other?

Common sense may be the answer here. Any practice or habit today that is be things we try to keep in check. Today, as fast as the world moves and changes around us, as politically charged with opinions posing as facts, and not a stable element of unbiased truth, we each need to assess the level of media exposure in our family and ourselves. Think about your use of social media. Think about how it impacts your mood, your stress level, your anxiety. Is there a general sense of malcontent following exposure to social media? Are you comparing yourself or your life based on someone else’s carefully edited screen life? Are you feeling left out? Do you hide from others or spend too much time alone because of your daily consumption of the latest Twitter buzz or Facebook/Instagram post?

Take protective action for yourself and your family, just as one would if they were overspending, eating or drinking.

Consider not touching your smartphone for one day except for important telephone calls. Then try that for another day and another. See what effect limiting yourself has on you. Try taking Facebook off of your phone and check it only a few times per week on your desk or laptop. Studies do support that moods are improved the

T

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Cast and crew of James and the Giant Peach. Submitted photo

Granby Memorial High School Performing Arts is pleased to announce their fall production of James and the Giant Peach on Nov. 7 and 8 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 10 at 2 p.m.. fun abound in this stage adaption of Roald Dahl’s greatest adventure story.

James is a lonely young boy forced to work like a slave for the most revolting aunts in England. One day a mystical old man gives him a bag of magic. When he accidently spills it near the old peach tree, the most incredible things happen. less you touch social media. There will be a withdrawal period, but then there may be freedom. LIKES aside, don’t forget

Adapted for stage by David Wood in cooperation with Samuel French, this wonderful musical is sure to please both young and old alike.

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The Granby Drummer

november 2019

Waypoints

By Mark Fiorentino

Dorman’s Revenge I’m going to cheat a little bit here. I’m not sure I can do it justice, so please stop reading and look at the picture captioned “Soccer dads, together again.”

Pay particular attention to the guy on the far right.

Now back to the story. when our daughters were in elementary school. They all played soccer together, so we became a group of soccer dads.

Our social lives revolved around practices, games and fundraisers. We bonded quickly, sharing interests, and for the most part, senses of humor.

With the exception of my daughter El-

lie, who is a senior in high school, all of the girls are off in college. Nowadays, it’s nearly impossible to get us all together.

Even small groups are extremely rare.

So I was excited when, after a series of We decided John and Mark (also known as “Dorman,” his last name) and I would leave my house at 5:30 a.m. and meet Dave at the marina no later than 7.

I dutifully set my alarm for 4:45 so I could have coffee ready when John and Dorman arrived. I had packed and loaded my gear the night before. There was nothing for me to do but wait for them to knock.

So I waited. And waited.

And waited some more.

I was just dozing off when sometime around 6:20. As I walked to our window-

Soccer dads, together again. Photos by the author.

a little grumpy. I muttered to myself, “I could have slept another hour.”

I thought about saying something snarky, but what I saw standing in the morning light on the porch made my jaw drop. John was dressed as you would expect for a middle-aged man who has fished in the last decade: ratty t-shirt; ratty plaid shorts; ratty hat and Crocs.

Dorman, on the other hand, looked like he was ready for a sunset cocktail cruise.

He had on a blue polo shirt tucked into reddish-pink

Dorman’s bonito.

Dorman’s giant sea robin.

shorts (with pocket linings that were a contrasting blue, matching his shirt), a fancy belt and sandals. And to top it

Dorman wasn’t worried. “It’s stuff I found in my dad’s old boat. I’m sure it hasn’t been used in more than 10 years,

tight to his head by a leather chin strap.

He looked like a cross between Gilligan and Mr. Howell.

My grumpiness disappeared. This was going to be fun. As I opened the door, I said something like, “Are you kidding me, Dorman? We’re not going to catch

John and I just shook our heads.

On the drive to the marina, Dorman

In his typical modest, devil-may-care way, Dorman said: “What? There’s nothing special about these clothes.”

After coffee, we loaded John and Dorman’s gear in my truck. Again, my jaw dropped. Dorman was armed with a rod looked cracked and fragile. I’m almost certain it was missing its tip. The reel held line that was kinked and worn. It looked like something you would string on a Weedeater only without much hope that it would actually cut anything. His tackle box was equally old, steel and covered in rust.

“Is this all you have?” I asked. “You’re going to struggle. I’ll be surprised if you catch anything at all. I’m especially worried about the line.”

His dad essentially built the boat they used for overnight trips offshore. He told us how they learned the hard way, after a harrowing trip in rough seas, to pay attention to weather forecasts. “We all prayed on that trip, and some of us cried,” he said. I wanted to ask him if they dressed that way back in the day, but I kept my mouth shut.

When we got to the dock, Dave took one look at Dorman and said, “What the hell? You might have to ride below deck as we motor out. I have a reputation to uphold around here.”

And so it went, all the way out. We each took turns jabbing Dorman about it all in stride, not bothered in the least.

Dave explained the plan. We would be ting the boat drift over his favorite spots.

We would also keep our eyes open for surface activity. “There are bonitos in the area. Keep one rod ready to cast quickly.

Waypoints cont’d. on p.33

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november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Page 33

Granby Library Association notes 150 years’ service

Waypoints cont’d. from p. 32 Sightings near the boat will be rare, and we won’t get in more than a cast or two before they disappear.” man tied on an ancient black and white Dardevle lure. Then he began casting.

We all thought the same thing, but it was Dave who spoke. “Dorman, we’re moving way too fast for you to catch anything. Plus, that lure isn’t going to work

The Granby Library Association celebrated its 150th anniversary at the Main Branch, of the library.

Members of the Granby Library Association, past and present, the Junior Ancient Marquis of Granby Fyfe and Drum Corps, library staff, and community members who attended the festivities inside and outside the building.

Words were spoken, ceremonial dirt was broken (to bury the time capsule), and everyone had a nice time memorializing the event. Photos by Holly Johnson

Dorman’s response, delivered with a smile and a laugh: “You never know.” and began jigging off the bottom. John and I were on one side of the boat, Dave and Dorman on the other. As Dorman and realizes he will need to borrow gear from one of us.”

Then Dorman shouted, “Hey, look at that!” smashing bait on the surface, 20 yard’s from his side of the boat.

Dave ordered, “Guys, get your casting rods. They’re right on top of us and it won’t last long.”

Of course, Dorman was the only one ready and in the right position. We all watched as he cast his Dardevle into the middle of the chaos, certain he would unappealing and inappropriate lure

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or second, he would, beyond all odds, hook one, and then lose it as some part of his dilapidated gear failed.

“Hey, I got one,” Dorman said, laughing. “It’s a bonito.”

Before either John or I could say “no way”, Dave confirmed it was a bonito, and began barking out instructions.

“Don’t lose him, Dorman. He’s a keeper, and those are good eating. You’ve got to get him close enough for me to net. Work fast, but don’t try to overpower him.”

Celebrating New England’s Natural Beauty

Dave lamented: “Oh. Your line surely won’t hold.”

But it did, and Dorman landed a beau-

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bucket list, bonito possess a combination of speed, power and teeth that make them

only one we caught that day. In fact, it’s the only one we saw.

You can probably guess how the rest of the day went. Dorman, using a series of rigs and different baits that the rest of two-to-one. His total included a huge sea robin that Dave declared to be the largest he’d ever seen or heard of.

As we were packing to head home, I said, “Well, Dorman, you sure showed us today. I guess we shouldn’t have teased you so much.”

“Nonsense,” he said. “ I wouldn’t have it any other way. I miss hanging out with you guys.”

I knew he meant both.

I put my hand on his polo-clad shoulder and said: “Me too, my friend.”

Supported by

Fiduciary Investment Advisors, LLC & ALIRT Insurance Research, LLC

Join us for our Opening Reception Thursday, November 7, 5 - 8 PM

New England is a region of immense beauty and extraordinary natural diversity.

This 14th annual juried art show will feature artwork inspired by the natural beauty that surrounds those of us who are lucky enough to live in New England.

A portion of art sales will benefit the Granby Land Trust.

Lost Acres Vineyard Art Gallery

80 Lost Acres Road • North Granby, CT Hours: Fri. & Sat. 12 PM - 6 PM, Sun. 12 PM - 5 PM www.LostAcresVineyard.com

www.GranbyLandTrust.org

Page 34

The Granby Drummer

Sally Markey making paste paper.

november 2019

Pam Jones with recent painting.

Lou Cherichetti explaining his weaving technique to Ann Pettee.

GRANBY ARTISTS ASSOCIATION

Alexander Anisimov with some of his paintings.

Aimee Gilbert spinning wool.

Mark Gottlieb and Jeff Bernier blowing a glass bowl.

Laura Eden taking a break from painting demo.

Windsor Federal 21 Hartford Ave., Granby | 860.653.4548 | WindsorFederal.com

november 2019

The Granby Drummer

Debby Reelitz presenting a calligraphy demonstration.

Annukka Ritalahti making glass jewelry.

Page 35

Avis Cherichetti making a pot.

Barbara Schmitt with one of her favorite chain-saw carvings.

OPEN STUDIOS TOUR OCT. 19-20 Photos by Shirley Murtha

Katherine Tolve and guests making flowers for a mixed media picture.

Sue Canavan preparing materials for a paper flower.

Gary Ebersole working with pen and ink.

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Page 36

The Granby Drummer

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Action Carpet 36 Beacon Mechanical 23 Beman Hardware 27 Berkshire Hathaway RE 16 Berkshire Hathaway-CopperBrook 21 Berkshire Hathaway-Reardon 7 Berkshire Hathaway-Shepherds Way 30 Brignole Bush & Lewis 2 Cahill’s Motors 5 Carmon Funeral Home 11 Carter Robert Painting 32 Chiropractic Care 6 Christopher Bryant 35 Command Corporation 15 Creative Learning Preschool Center13 CT Foot Specialists 35 D’Agata Granite & Bronze 5 Democrat Town Committee BOE 14 Democrat Town Committee BOS 20 Dowd Realty 18 First Congregational Church 13 Gary’s Mowing 26 GCF The Arc 34 GMHS James & the Giant Peach 27 GOP BOE 22 GOP BOS 24 Granby Dental – Kirschbaum 10, 35 Granby Dental Ctr. – Ungerleider 19 Granby Food Bank 4 Granby Land Trust Art Show 33 Granby Package Store 12 Granby Village Health 27 Higleyville Coin 26

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Larry’s Construction 11 Main Street Door 28 McClean Landscape & Nursery 15 McLean Assisted Living 29 MeadowBrook of Granby 28 Melvin Porter Electrical & Plumbing 3 O.P. Painting 10 Old Farms Landscaping 8 Pierce Builders-Meadowgate 12 Public Works-Hazardous Waste 28 Ravenswood 10 Richards Employment Agency 3 Route 10 Tire 26 Salmon Brook Shops 32 Sanditz Travel 12 Santa Realty 9 Sensible Home Products 32 Sig’s Plumbing & Pump 3 Small-Town-Septic 31 South Congregational Church 11 State Line Propane & Oil 15 Strain Family Equestrian Ctr. 11 Subseven 23 Sullivan Hardwood Floors 19 Swim Center at Westminster 8 Thomas Sullivan - Morgan Stanley 21 Troiano Oil Company 31 Two Park Place 11 Valley Brook Community Church 30 Walsh Chiropractic 9 West Granby Methodist Church 19 Windsor Federal Saving

november 2019

DPW Winner Congratulations to Granby DPW’s Robbie Bahre. On Oct. 10, Bahre participated in the CASHO-CIRMA* 2019 Snow Plow Safety Roadeo and took first place in the Tandem/Tri-axle division. *CASHO – Connecticut Association of Street & Highway Officials, Inc CIRMA – Connecticut Interlocal Risk Management Agency Submitted photo

DECEMBER 2019 DEADLINES ADS: Wednesday, Nov. 13 noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, leave message.

Email: ads@granbydrummer.org.

ARTICLES: Monday, Nov. 18 noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222.

Email: editor@granbydrummer.org WORK DATES: Nov. 12-25 Call or email for times.

The public is encouraged to submit articles and photos about events of interest to Granby residents.

The editors urge you to make submissions by email if at all possible. We acknowledge submissions by return email. If you do not hear from us please follow up with another email or leave a message at 860-653-9222. Articles should be written in the third person. More detailed information on Drummer submission requirements is available at: www.granbydrummer.org.

34

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ne)

The Granby

Drummer

2019 E L E C T I O N S UP PL E ME N T

Published by Citizens for a Better Granby

There are 11 different races to be decided by the Nov. 5 municipal election, including First Selectman, Board of Selectman, Board of Finance, Board of Education, Board of Assessment Appeals, Planning and Zoning, Zoning Board of Appeals and Town Modera-

One Opening 2-year term (vote for one) I have served as First Selectman, Selectman, and Member of Board of Finance. I am employed as a Director of Risk Management in

tor. Voters will have the opportunity to vote for 24 open seats. It takes a long, two-sided ballot to include all of these men race has caused some confusion. All voters can only choose one candidate nancially and strategically, we are at the “fork in the road”—it’s time for a more rigorous approach involving more of us than ever before. This election you actually have a say in the matter.

Four Openings 2-year term (vote for any two)

completing a degree at Westfield State in I believe that strong communication and working together to develop new ideas will make us the best B. Scott Kuhnly Granby we can be. I reach out through events like Koffee with Kuhnly, budget workshops, and being active in town-wide events to obtain your input. I am seeking reelection as First Selectman and would greatly appreciate your vote on November 5!

I’ve spent my entire career as an improvement consultant, helping organizations achieve their goals—walking into places I’m unfamiliar with, quickly diagnosing issues, and working with people at all levels to

Glenn G. Ballard

Sally King has lived in Granby with her husband, Eric Lukingbeal, since 1984.

She is an attorney and practiced law with the Hartford firm of Robinson and Cole

Sally S. King

specializing in litigation. She has been a member of the Board of Selectmen since 1993, and she also served on the Inland, Wetlands and Water-

She presently is a member of the Juvenile Review Board, the Democratic Town Committee, the Granby Horse Council and served on the Board of the Village for Families and Children, Inc. Sally and her

for First Selectman and two candidates from those running for the board. This year there are two candidates running for Selectman. By state statute, the losing First Selectman candidate is added to the pool of candidates running for

Jim and his family chose Granby in 2005 because of its great schools, farms and open spaces and rural, residential character. Jim joined the Board of Selectmen in 2015 after serving on the Town Charter Revision Commission, and Development Committee, and two Town Building Committees. Since then he has supported resident participation, transparency and our long-range plansupports our community through service in the Granby Land Trust, Granby Senior Center, Salmon Brook Historical Society, Granby Tennis Club and Friends of Holcomb Farm.

Since moving to Granby, I have been committed to serving our community by volunteering with various organizations and serving in town government.

Granby’s success is rooted in conservative

visitors to Granby schools.

forward. What are Granby’s goals? Is it possible to preserve everything we love about being a smaller, rural town, and yet manage growth in a

Selectman. The Board of Education is getting additional attention this year because seven candidates are running, but there are only four open seats.

Edward E. Ohannessian

goal of meeting the needs of our growing and vibrant town.

As an investment professional, I clearly

met within constrained budgets thereby I am committed to ensuring that Granby

continues to provide a high level of service to its residents and remains an attractive place to reside. I would be grateful for your vote.

For the last 16 years, I have served on the Board of Selectmen, and prior to that, I served on the Board of Assessment Appeals and as Town Constable.

I am a graduate of Granby Memorial High School and a Granby native. I work at Collins Aerospace in Windsor Locks.

The Board of Selectmen’s challenge in the coming term is how to maintain Granby’s current services with decreasing support from the state.

Balancing the needs of the town with the available funds is the task I will take if reelected. I hope to earn your vote Nov. 5.

My grandfather, Chet, often told me, “Granby is the best town in the world.”

I agree. For 13 years, I’ve worked with tens of thousands of people as a volunteer and as a professional. If I’ve learned one thing, it’s that helping people and improving processes requires careful dedication to listening to what people say and asking questions. My commitment to my hometown is to use the skills I have acquired to help protect and cont’d. on next page

SAME-DAY Same-day voter registration in Connecticut: The State legislature has changed state statutes so that U.S. citizens who are 18 by November 5 can register to vote on Election Day. To implement, unregistered voters must go to Town Hall, not the town’s polling site in the Community Gym, on Election Day to register. They must bring proof of identity and proof of residence to vote. If they are registered and place it an envelope. If their ballot is uncontested at 8 p.m., it will go to Granby’s polling site at the high school where it will be counted separately from lots. The Registrar of Voters strongly encourages everyone to register before Election Day, so you can place your ballot directly into the machine to be counted and avoid potentially long lines at Town Hall. Unregistered voters in line at Town Hall at 8 p.m. will not be able to vote on Election Day. Voters need to be aware that voter registration is

NON-transferable. If you moved from out a new registration card with your current address in order to vote.

Online voter registration is available for new voters or to make changes 24 hours a day – seven days a week at: voterregistration.ct.gov

Middle School. All Granby schools will be closed on Election Day, but the registrars strongly recommend voting between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. if you have the option to do so, as the heaviest voting will be between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., and the second rush between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.

previously proven your ID, either at the time of your registration or when voting previously, you will need to spend a few minutes at the Moderator’s table, as there is a state required form you have not proven your identity, you MUST bring an ID to vote on Election ballots are not available for Municipal Elections.

GMHS For the municipal election on Tuesday, Nov. 5, the polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. All Granby residents will vote at the same location, in the community gym, located in Granby Memorial High School in the center of to moderate. It is recommended that drivers access the community gym using the high school’s entrance off North Works, and leave the polls from Salmon

Homebound registered voters can arrange for transportation to the polls by calling the Social Services department at the Senior Center at # 860-844-5353.

The service is planned to be offered from 9 a.m to noon on Election Day and it is strongly recommended that voters call now to arrange for a ride before November 5.

VOTER ID

To check in quickly at the polls, please bring an ID. Should you not have an ID on election day, but have

Election results reporting continues to improve statewide using an improved two-step process. Machine-read ballot totals will be announced immediately and the additional calculations including hand-counted ballots will have 48 hours to be processed. With this new method over 90 percent of both local and statewide results can be posted more quickly. You can see past results as well as current election results as they are reported at the Secretary of State’s website: cont’d. on back page

Page 2

2019 granby Drummer election Supplement

preserve what we love about Granby. I will work to guarantee every resident has an opportunity to speak their mind and feel understood.

sales at KMC Music (Kaman Music Corp) Client Advisory Board. She is currently a member of the Board of Directors for Junior Achievement of Southern New England.

Full Term (vote for any three)

Three Openings 4-year term (vote for four)

Mike is a life-long resident of Granby, having gone through the local school system and then to the Wharton School of Finance and Com-

Bill has lived in Granby for nearly 50 years, serving the town in many ways. He began as a Drummer reporter covering the Board of Selectmen, then went on to serve two terms as a member of the Board.

He has also served on several town building committees, on the Board of Holcomb

served on the Economic Development Commission prior to joining the Board of Finance in 1982, serving as its chairman since 1989. He has Michael B. Guarco, Jr. lobbied legislators on mandate reforms that would help the towns in managing costs

of Conservation and Development ComBill Kennedy mittee. He believes Granby needs continued support for its strong educational system and senior and youth programs.

He knows the coming years will require nance to keep Granby vibrant and secure future growth.

children in town with his wife Judy, he knows the workings of the community— its strengths and challenges—and what makes it the great place it is to raise a family and live and work.

Lynn is a 21-year Granby resident, community volunteer and parent. She is an incumbent and is seeking her third term on the Board of Education. Lynn has been a fierce advocate for smaller class sizes, keeping teaching assistants in the elementary schools and strengthening the math curriculum. She Lynn Guelzow has served on both the subcommittees, as well as task forces for particular education issues. As Granby transitions to a new superintendent, Lynn seeks to provide stability and focus on keeping our schools strong and responsive to the needs of students and families.

To Fill Vacancy for 2 Years (vote for one)

Kelly resides in Granby with her husband and sons. She graduated from Granby Memorial High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in economics from UConn and a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Hartford. She is cur-

Christine is a 20-year resident of Granby. She has two older children who both recently graduated from the Granby fourth grader currently enrolled at Wells Road. Christine has

James grew up in Brooklyn, N.Y. He Demetrios have been residents of Granby since 2012. He has been an active member of the community volunteering as an assistant Little League and lacrosse coach as well as serving as a James Tsaptsinos reation board member. He is an active musician and recording engineer, and has -

-

Kelly O. Rome

november 2019

Retirement and is serving on the Board of Finance, Kelly has served on several boards includ-

ing most recently as a member of the Granby been passionate about our children, their educations and their futures. Christine -

Monica has worked in the insurance industry for over 14 years after a career as an attorney in private practice. After working for Chubb Insurance in Simsbury for several years as an Assistant Vice Monica recently began working as Assistant Monica Logan

Claims for TDC Specialty Underwriters in Unionville. She and

sons moved to Granby because of the strong reputation of its school system.

Monica wants to help Granby schools deliver a diverse, well-rounded and balanced education enabling all children to and skills.

Jenny is completing her second fouryear term serving Granby through the Board of Education, including serving as chair of nance committee and -

Jenny Emery

She spent 30 years in public sector risk man-

She and her husband, Dave, have lived in Granby since 1982, raising three proud who seeks to continue the important work of the Board of Education in a crucial time for the town’s school system, on behalf of the Granby community we all love. cont’d. on next page

the Granby Board of Education and the Granby community as a whole.

budgets. He is currently vice president of

State of Connecticut Official Ballot

OFFICE

13

Granby, Connecticut

14 15 PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

16

17 PLANNING AND

VOTE FOR ANY FOUR

ZONING COMMISSION ALTERNATE VOTE FOR ONE

PARTY 13A

DEMOCRATIC PARTY

MARK

LOCKWOOD

PETITIONING CANDIDATE WRITE-IN VOTES

18

19 20 ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

21 ZONING BOARD

VOTE FOR ANY THREE

OF APPEALS ALTERNATE VOTE FOR ONE

C T O L L

15A

CHRISTINE L. CHINNI 13B

REPUBLICAN PARTY

14A

Municipal Election

16A

17A

18A

19A

20A

SUZANNE YUCHA

14B BRENNAN SHEAHAN

15B JONATHAN BOARDMAN

13C

14C

15C

13D

14D

15D

A B

16B

17B

PAULA H. JOHNSON

DAVID HENNESSEY

18B

STEVE MULLER

21A

19B

20B

21B

ANN

CRIMMINS

November 5, 2019

Y P O 22

TOWN MODERATOR VOTE FOR ONE

22A

22B

JOHN E. ADAMS

16C

17C

18C

19C

20C

21C

22C

16D

17D

18D

19D

20D

21D

22D

Be sure to complete your vote on the reverse side of this ballot.

Sheet 1 of 1

november 2019

2019 granby Drummer election Supplement

Rosemarie is our longest serving Board of Education member and, as a parent and

Mark Fiorentino is a government affairs lawyer, with more than 25 years

value of a strong public education for our children and our community. Rosemarie has

businesses and government entities at the local, regional, state and federal levels.

Mark is completing

and common sense approach to promote for all students, challenging curriculum that prepares our students for the future, and policies that keep our children safe.

Rosemarie currently serves as Secretary of Granby’s Board of Education and the chair of the Curriculum Subcommittee.

Rosemarie Weber

a teacher and administrator in West Hartford, East Granby and Avon public schools. He and his wife Colleen moved to Granby because of tion of the schools in town. They have two children, Maddie and David Jr. , who are enrolled in Granby has coached Little League Baseball, Bearcats Football, and serves on the board of Bearcats Football.

Dave hopes that the depth and breadth the Board of Education as it makes deciSchools.

Brennan has served as an alternate for

Chris and her husband, John Weeks, moved to Granby in 2003. Both avid birdwatchers, they chose Granby for its natural beauty, rural feel, and abundant wildlife. Chris is an attorney at a firm in Avon, specializing in education law. She has been practicing law in Connecticut since 1992. Chris has served Christine Chinni as an alternate member

Granby Board of Education. He serves on the finance subcommittee and has been the board’s vice chairman the last two years.

Mark is committed to giving back to the community and has dedicated his time and resources to a number of organizations ranging from the Granby Bears Football team, to Holcomb Farm, to the Granby Senior Center.

since that position was created in 2013 and looks forward to serving as a regular member of the Commission.

One Opening 4-year term (vote for one)

cont’d. on next page

continue working to keep Granby a great place to live. I will look to balance the needs of the town and property owners in applying our land use regulations.

My past activities in town include being a former member of the Conservation Commission, part of the committee on the recent revision

With thanks to Granby voters, my 1965 election and service on the then of Assessment and Appeals, has been uninterrupted. Since 1965 Granby property assessment processes and values have steadily improved to the point where, now, thanks to our Granby Assessors ofremarkable reduction in appeals before the board. Yes, I would like to continue my service to Granby and thank you for your vote on Election Day, Nov. 5.

1

FIRST SELECTMAN VOTE FOR ONE

Granby, Connecticut

2

3

4

SELECTMEN VOTE FOR ANY TWO

5 BOARD OF FINANCE

Development, and as a past member on

1A

DEMOCRATIC PARTY

PETITIONING CANDIDATE

B. SCOTT KUHNLY

1C

GLENN G. BALLARD

1D

WRITE-IN VOTES

6

7

BOARD OF FINANCE TO FILL VACANCY FOR TWO YEARS VOTE FOR ONE

2A

3A

4A

SALLY S. KING

JAMES C. LOFINK

WILLIAM KENNEDY

5A

6A

7A

8

9 10 BOARD OF EDUCATION

Y P

11

VOTE FOR ANY FOUR

8A LYNN GUELZOW

O C 9A

CHRISTINE PEASLEE

2B

EDWARD E. OHANNESSIAN 2C

3B

4B

5B

NEUMANN

KELLY O. ROME

MICHAEL B. GUARCO JR.

TSAPTSINOS

ROSEMARIE WEBER

3C

4C

5C

6C

7C

8C

3D

4D

5D

6D

7D

8D

MARK

6B

7B

JAMES

8B

9B

DAVID PELING

Sheet 1 of 1

November 5, 2019

10A

MONICA LOGAN

12

BOARD OF ASSESSMENT APPEALS VOTE FOR ONE

11A

12A

JENNY EMERY

T O L L Ayour vote on the reverse side of this ballot.

Be sure B to complete 1B

REPUBLICAN PARTY

Municipal Election

FULL TERM VOTE FOR ANY THREE

PARTY

wife Deb have raised their three children here. During this time Brennan Sheahan he has built a strong understanding of the town and its community. He looks forward to increasing his participation in the town government as a full commission member.

No information received.

BOARD OF

State of Connecticut Official Ballot

the past year and has had the opportunity to participate in key decisions and learn the role of a commissioner. As a Granby resident for the past

Four Openings 4-year term (vote for any four)

“Whitey” Johnson

OFFICE

Page 3

10B

11B

MARK

12B

LOWELL C. JOHNSON

FIORENTINO

9C

10C

11C

12C

9D

10D

11D

12D

JOHN

ALEXANDER BAZYK 2D

Page 4

2019 granby Drummer election Supplement

november 2019

MODERATOR One Opening 4-year term (vote for one) During my 30 years as a member and 20 ing Commission, my personal goal has been to help preserve Granby’s distinctive atmosphere for those who have chosen Granby as their home and workplace. cate balance of our rural residential atmosphere and managing the inevitable growth to meet the needs of the town are the greatest challenges facing the commission. My commitment as an alternate is to continue to be an active and accessible member of the commission and its subcommittees and aggressively seek citizen participation

Three Openings 4-year term (vote for any three) Sue has lived in Granby for nearly 40 years. She and her husband have raised two children and been involved in numerous town activities. She has been an alternate

Suzanne Yucha

for 14 years and looks forward to serving as a full board member.

She has also served as a board member for

peals because it is important to balance the Granby zoning rules with residents’ personal needs.

No information received

One Opening 4-year term (vote for one) David has lived in Granby with his He began serving as Appeals Alternate in time he has helped review variances and zoning requirements.

An attorney by trade, David Hennessey he has devoted over 30 years to helping Connecticut companies work well with their communities. He has been active in supporting the Granby Land Trust and Granby Education Foundation and has been a staunch supporter of careful development and improvement of Granby and its environs, with a focus on preserving the nature and history of the town and community.

One Opening 2-year term (vote for one) John has been a resident of Granby since 1990. He and his wife Cindy raised two children in town. John has served as First Selectman, Selectman, Chairman of the Charter Revision Commission and as Vice Chairman of

John E. Adams

statewide, serving on the Board of the Material Innovation and Recycling Authority -

Town Treasurer and is currently seeking his fourth term as Moderator.

regulations.

VOTE

was a member of the Inland Wetland a n d Wa t e r c o u r s e s Commission here in Granby. I served on our Board of Educatwo as chairperson.

Since I moved into worked to give back to the town that has given so much to me and my family.

Ann Crimins

Registrar of Voters

cont’d from front

If you would like to be added to the list or if you did not receive the poll worker information and signups—please e-mail the registrars at: lwolfe@granby-ct.gov ssmith@granby-ct.gov for more information.

Voters will have the option to vote privately and independently using a touch screen or audio ballot marking system.

This new equipment is designed to allow people who can’t or prefer not to to vote on Election Day privately and independently at the polling site. To actually cast a vote using the touch screen system, you need to be a registered voter and come to the polls on Election Day. We encourage all town residents to try out this system.

The Registrar’s office is actively recruiting new workers and offers options for training to make it easier to tial primaries and election in 2020 there will be morning, afternoon, evening and weekend classes. Only one class is or paid, and must be 16 years or older.

voters can choose to vote using an absentee ballot through the Town Clerk (see below) before Election day. For voters who have a temporary medical issue on Election day, such as a severe in a program called curbside voting.

This involves making a request at the polling site for help from two assistant registrars, a Democrat and a Republican. While the curbside voter waits in a designated parking space, the assistant registrars check in the voter and are issued a ballot in a privacy folder that they registrars carry the completed ballot, in a privacy folder, to the optical scanner voting machine to be counted. This service is not available to people who are not temporarily physically handicapped.

BALLOTS

Absentee Ballots are handled through complete ballot identical to the ballots used by voters on Election Day, just on a different color paper because they are tallied separately. Connecticut has speballots; essentially the voter must testify on their absentee ballot application that they have a reason for not voting at the polls. The form is available at Town Hall or on the web at sots.ct.gov If you’ve sent in an application for your absentee ballot already, please mail your completed ballot immediately after you receive it to ensure your vote will be counted. If you have not applied yet, there isn’t much time for mailing back and forth so we would advise coming to the Town Hall, where you can complete the process in person. Any ballots received by the Town Clerk after Nov. 5 are not counted.

Monday, Nov. 4 Last Day to Register in person for brand new residents, military service and just turned 18 years old. Special OfTuesday, Nov. 5 Municipal Election – Polls open 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Granby Community Gym, Granby Memorial High School Tuesday, Nov. 5 Same Day – Election Day Registration and voting at the Reg-

are eligible and need to register before voting only.

Feel free to stop by to register to vote, to determine your voting district or to make corrections in person at the Reg-

registration forms are also available at online at the Secretary of State’s website: www.sots.ct.gov Questions? the registrars, Laura Wolfe and Sonja mail is #860-844-5322 and our e-mail address are: lwolfe@granby-ct.gov or ssmith@granby-ct.gov