Granby Drummer | November 2024

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Volume LV, No. 3 • November 2024

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Public hearing Nov. 19 for KCE battery storage project The Connecticut Siting Council will conduct a public hearing via Zoom remote conferencing on Tuesday, Nov. 19, beginning with an evidentiary session at 2 p.m. and continuing with a public comment session at 6:30 p.m.

The hearing will be on a petition from Key Capture Energy for the proposed construction, maintenance, and operation of a 4.99-megawatt AC battery energy storage facility located at 100 Salmon Brook Street.

The 6:30 p.m. public comment session will be reserved for the public to make brief statements into the record.

No public comments will be received

during the 2 p.m. evidentiary session.

Public statements are limited to three minutes. Interested persons may join any session to listen, but must sign up in advance to speak during the public comment session.

To participate in the public comment session by computer, smartphone, or tablet, please send an email to siting. council@ct.gov with your name, email address, and mailing address by Nov. 18. Public comments may also be submitted to the council by electronic mail or by regular mail.

Submitted by the Town of Granby

A World War II veteran’s story ...

GMHS football season surges ahead; see more Jay Harder photos on p. 29.

Granby’s FY25 departmental work plans, continued

Last month, this column introduced a review of the departmental work plans for the Town of Granby. The departmental work plan focuses on functions over and above the daily operations with the overarching goal to move the town forward while introducing resiliency and efficiency into with the operations of the town.

This month I am providing a summary of the remaining departmental initiatives, as detailed by each department head, that the FY 25 Mike budget funded, and Walsh Town Manager intended to support.

About Town

Finance, Tax Collection and Assessment • Work to integrate the tax collection and assessment functions into Finance.

• Oversee the implementation of the ClearGov software into the FY 26 budget process.

• Work to more fully implement the VCS time and attendance software.

• Work to implement the accounts payable automation software.

• Seek to change the elderly filing cycle to bi-annually by amending the ordinance.

• Work to integrate the building permit software into the CAMA system software.

• Seek to create bench strength and redundancy in the tax and assessment offices.

About Town cont’d. on p. 2

World War II veteran Moe Bressard, 95, who enlisted in the U.S. Air Force at age 17 in 1946, lived in Granby for 43 years before moving to a retirement community in Southwick, Mass.

Photo by Nicole Muller Please see the Familiar Faces column on p. 16 for more about this Granby veteran.

Chief Sansom reflects on his first year in Granby

As the saying goes, “time goes by fast when working with a great team.”

I am quickly approaching my first full year as Granby’s Chief of Police and the time has flown by. Many accomplishments, some challenges and unexpected opportunities have unfolded this year, and I am grateful for this corner to reach out to the community.

For those who don’t know me, my name is Scott Sansom and I’m the Granby Police Chief. My background consists of 20 years working with the Hartford Police Department, retiring as the deputy chief, and 10 years as chief of police for the town of East Hartford.

Leading a police department of any size presents challenges — whether chief in East Hartford or Granby. Over the past year we have hired new employees, appointed a new detective, increased our professional development, made

Read the Drummer online at GranbyDrummer.com

updates to out-of-date equipment and began to build a community policing platform. Lastly, we began to transition our department to become tier three state accredited.

This past year we hired two new dispatchers and two new police officers.

It takes almost a year to fully train and state-certify a dispatcher before they qualify to work independently. However, I am pleased to announce that during this first year we have hired and fully trained Christine Hedge and Alexandria Litter. In addition to telecommunicator staff, two certified officers were hired and trained, replacing two others who had retired. Officer C. Dufresne started in January, and Officer T. Deloy started in September.

Both are experienced officers we are very proud to have on the GPD team.

Sansom cont’d. on p. 3

Photo by Peter Dinella

Page 2

The Granby Drummer

Dr. Flush recognized for leadership and mentorship Donald Rethke, known affectionately as “Dr. Flush” for his contributions to NASA’s space toilets during the Apollo program, was recognized for his work with the award-winning GMHS Robotics team at a ceremony on Oct. 7.

Started in 2009, the Granby Grunts have competed throughout New England and beyond. In 2015 they finished in the top one percent of the world at the International Competition in St. Louis.

Rethke donated his time and expertise in leading this innovative program which requires fundraising for the team’s travel. He also established the Robotics team at Enfield’s Fermi High School and has spoken to more than 300,000 children at schools and museums. A Navy veteran and graduate of Wisconsin University, Rethke spent 37 years at Hamilton Standard. In addition to his “zero gravity” commode, he developed spacesuit backpacks for the 12 astronauts who visited the moon and worked on the lunar excursion module, Skylab and the space shuttle among other projects.

Fun Fact: The name “Granby Grunts” is a shout-out to our military troops as a reference to the importance of team-

Donald Rethke, center in suspenders, is surrounded by well wishers at the Oct. 7 ceremony.

Photo by Jen Bell

work. Rethke spoke about the need for our schools to keep up with technological advances and stressed the importance of giving back and impacting the future.

“The team has been a family to me,” said Rethke. “In competitions we always thought of our robot as our trophy.”

From comments made by Cheri Burke, Superintendent of Schools.

November 2024

About Town cont’d. from p. 1 Information Technology • Replacement of town computer and printing equipment using APRA funding.

• Town Hall Meeting Room/Senior Center/Holcomb Farm audio/visual upgrades.

• Town campus camera replacements, installation and upgrades.

• Continue to be vigilant on cybersecurity threats and defense strategies.

• Backup and disaster recovery planning, including incident response plan revisions.

Police Department • Work to obtain Tier I and Tier II Connecticut Law Enforcement accreditation.

• Review and refresh critical policies.

• Overhaul firearms unit and upgrade ballistic shields.

• Certify all officers in rifle and less lethal operations.

• Administer numerous ARPA funded headquarters capital projects.

• Evidence room—high density storage system installed and functional.

• Support the Emergency Radio Communications project and dispatch installations.

Public Works • Focus on ARPA, FY 25, and FY 26 capital project completion and planning.

• Road maintenance planning including execution of mill and overlay processes.

• Support and guide the five new supervisors as they work into their new positions.

• Plan and invest in appropriate training to build the skill set of the existing workforce.

• Oversee completion of the SBP walking trail and replacement of the basketball courts.

Library • Oversee the renovation and modernization of the library space using ARPA funds.

• Continue to plan for the future of the library identifying space needs.

• Implement the new Library Management System.

• Participate in the Strategic Planning Committee, working toward implementation.

• Working toward better ways to provide outreach to homebound patrons.

Human Service: Youth Services, Parks and Recreation, Senior Services, Social Services • Complete the renovation of the senior center kitchen.

• Pilot project with the State of Connecticut on a virtual senior center.

• Participation in the regional CLEAR program using opioid grant funding.

• With the new organization in place, support all staff with their new responsibilities.

Town Clerk • Digitize property maps and related surveys.

• Online dog license renewal including online credit card use.

• eRecording to be offered as an option for vendors looking to record transactions digitally.

• Online marriage license application.

November 2024

The Granby Drummer

Your Support Matters!

Dear Readers, Last year at this time, the Drummer was operating in the “red” and you responded generously to help us finish 2023 in the “black.” This year, thanks to a lot of hard work, modestly higher advertising revenue, a successful PuzzleSlam fundraiser and a grant from the Granby Community Fund, we’re looking at breaking even in 2024.

We still need your help. Your donations are vital to our continuing to bring local news to you in print, on our website and through social media.

Bringing local news to Granby is why we began more than 50 years ago and why we continue.

Many of you have already donated this year and we’re immensely grateful.

To donate, scan the QR code printed on this page or go to granbydrummer. com and use our Donate Now button.

Mail your contributions by check made out to Granby Drummer, P.O. Box 165, Granby, CT 06035 or email us at editor@granbydrummer.org to donate by

Sansom cont’d. from p. 1

As we hired and trained new officers, we also began a new professional development program. Many of our sergeants attended leadership training with the FBI and other organizations.

Our newly appointed detective also participated in numerous certification training courses throughout the state.

This professional development program will allow our officers to provide the best service possible to the citizens of Granby.

Public Act 22-119 tasks all Connecticut police departments to become advanced accredited. Though the Granby PD is accredited through CALEA at first tier, this public act raised the bar. To meet this new challenge, our accreditation manager worked hard to receive CALEA reaccreditation and began to transition to obtain tier three State Accreditation, a higher level.

This is a challenge for the department with our limited resources and staffing.

The demands on police are ever changing and growing. My staff works hard to keep up with applicable laws and demands of modern-day policing.

However, in my experience, and vital to policing, is fostering community connections. Officer N. Abalan and

GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN HIGHLIGHTS OCTOBER 7, 2024

credit card. All donations are tax deductible. Citizens for a Better Granby, publisher of the Drummer, is a 501(c)3 nonprofit and receives no funds from the town.

Please help our more than 40 dedicated volunteers continue to do their job.

Heartfelt thanks to these volunteers, to our advertisers and to you.

Board of Directors of Citizens for a Better Granby, publisher of The Granby Drummer Kathy Norris, Chair Sam Mikus, Vice Chair Karen Cleary, Treasurer Flo Bischoff, Secretary Carol Bressor, Karen Handville, Roger Hayes, Rebecca Mikus, Lew Noble, Dave Tolli

Sergeant Kreimes spearheaded the second First Responder Camp in August, where local teens had an opportunity to participate in and hear about police, fire, ambulance team scenarios, drills and exercises. Additionally, Life Star landed at Salmon Brook Park where the group could ask questions, sit in the helicopter and explore. The camp provides a glimpse into future career opportunities, and places names and faces of police staff with younger Granby citizens.

Another central community connection was initiated while conducting local food drives in partnership withlocal businesses. Last Thanksgiving, Christmas and this past spring, police staff were at local supermarkets collecting food and non-perishable items for the local food pantry.

I can tell you that the transition from an urban to small town police department caused a shift in the first few weeks but with the amazing staff I am fortunate to work with, we have hit the ground running together. This holiday season be on the lookout for GPD staff collecting for a food drive at a local supermarket and please say hello.

Submitted by the Chief’s office.

GALLERY feat. ALEX ANISIMOV GRANBY-SIMSBURY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JOHN MICHAEL HAIR DESIGN EDWARD JONES - JIM HAMMEL FREE LUNCH HQ - MATT RYAN Acadia ActionCOACH - DAVID OLCHOWSKI THE WAY FORWARD COUNSELING subseven

Page 3

Members present: Mark Fiorentino, Mark Neumann, Kelly Rome, Frederick A. Moffa.

Members absent: Margaret Chapple.

Others present: Town Manager Mike Walsh, Town Clerk Scott Nolan, Student Liaison Ben LaVigne, Finance Director Kimi Cheng, Lost Acres Fire Department Chief John Horr, Jr.

87 Simsbury Road

The property at 87 Simsbury Road is 4.8 acres and formerly the location of the West Granby United Methodist Church. When the church closed, the property reverted to the Hartford Foundation of Public Giving (HFPG).

The town has been in discussions with HFPG to acquire the property in order to rejoin it to the Holcomb Farm. Walsh explained that when the Conveyance Agreement is approved, it is anticipated that the town will also execute an agreement with the Granby Land Trust (GLT) so that sufficient funding is available should the church building need to be demolished. The goal is repatriating the parcel back to Holcomb Farm. Walsh said no action was necessary at this time, with final action to be taken at the Oct. 21 meeting.

Public Input Daniel Putnam Brown, Jr. (16 Broad Hill Road) gave a brief overview of the history of the property noting that Tudor and Laura Holcomb were considerate in the way the property would be transferred and that after the use by the church the property was transferred to the Hartford Foundation of Public Giving and the Hartford Foundation was agreeable to transferring the property back to the Town.

Brown spoke in favor of the proposal and believes it is the right thing to do.

Mark Williams (68 Simsbury Road) spoke in favor of the transfer noting that their property abuts the parcel and that there is certainly enough land to sell and develop but that is not in the spirit of what Tudor and Laura Holcomb would have wanted.

Steven Perry (41 Heather Lane) spoke in favor of the transfer and bringing the property back to Holcomb Farm.

Dana Warren (West Granby) spoke in favor of the transfer and that she is both from the neighborhood and was raised in the church and that she has been working with the Friends

of Holcomb Farm for the past year and that bringing this property back into the fold was a really good idea. Warren further went on to explain that her father was a member of the building committee of the church building and that the Town should consider doing the right thing to help protect the land and the building.

Joe O’Grady (115 Simsbury Road) spoke in favor of the transfer of the property and that renovating the church into office space for the farm to use would be a really good thing.

229 Mountain Road

The property at 229 Mountain Road is 16.91 acres that is currently vacant with the exception of a radio tower and associated equipment.

The town would like to purchase approximately 4.7 acres along with an easement to locate a new emergency telecommunications tower to improve emergency communications.

The purchase price would be $99, 740. The acquisition of the property is consistent with the town’s Plan of Conservation and Development.

Walsh said no action was necessary at this time, with final action to be taken at the Oct. 21 meeting.

Public Input Jay Martin (249 Mountain Road) inquired about the location of where the tower would be placed on the property.

Richard Kirschbaum (147 Silkey Road) inquired about where the access road to the tower would be placed on the property.

Emilia Sales (143 Silkey Road) raised concerns about the plans and wanted to learn more about the project and inquired about where she can get additional information as she is concerned about preserving the space.

Town Center Master Plan

The board established the Granby Center Advisory Committee on May 1, 2023 to consider and finalize the Granby Center Study Proposed Scope. As part of its process since, the committee requested the board issue a request for proposals to hire a consultant to assist with the study. There were seven responses and two firms were interviewed. The committee is recommending that BFJ Planning be hired to work with the committee on the development of the Granby Center Master Plan with the estimated total cost for this plan is $74,000, previously approved to be paid with ARPA funds. The board unanimously approved.

Page 4

The Granby Drummer

Drumbeat Letters to the Editor Support for Anderson

I have been a registered independent voter in Granby for over 20 years and I am supporting Mark Anderson in the upcoming November elections.

I would characterize myself as a college educated, business oriented, fiscally conservative person who is moderate in terms of social values. Not extreme in either direction, but also tired of being bombarded from the extreme left and extreme right opinions.

I dislike the overall direction that Connecticut is heading in with a Super Majority of Democratic government, but I do like living here. Given that, I honestly believe that Mark Anderson has worked tirelessly with people like me in mind.

As an Independent/Unaffiliated voter, I have only two real choices on Election Day—Democrat or Republican.

In my opinion, we do not need more of the same Democratic Party policies from Kim Becker.

We need to retain Mark Anderson as our voice for alternate ideas about state tax cuts, public safety and economic expansion that would improve our state for the better.

Please join me in voting for Mark this year.

Beth Carroll As a Republican serving in a Democratic legislature (97 to 54), Mark Anderson demonstrated knowledge, skills and character that he consistently maintained in serving all his constituents. Examples include introducing bills to eliminate an emission tax for some vehicles, ensuring ECS dollars for education, and elimination of a highway use tax. Additionally, he co-introduced acts concerning water resources of the Upper Farmington River Valley and justice for victims of sexual assault.

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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.

Through Mark’s continued dedication, he worked to pass bear safety laws, supported use of gas-powered vehicles, and put the mandate for electric vehicles on hold. During this year and with Mark’s assistance, the town of Granby received a $2 million public safety award.

There is much more that our representative must accomplish. Making changes in a Democratically controlled legislature is no simple feat as their committees place restrictions on what legislators can petition. Despite strong resistance, Mark proposed bills promoting fairness and safety in girls’ sports, and maintaining the rights of parents and guardians. Representative Anderson supports our concerns regarding fairness in utility rates, managing taxes and controlling additional fees while supporting awards for property tax relief. Finally, he acknowledges the need to honor and respect local control regarding education and housing development.

Granby needs an experienced leader who is well trained, possesses a working knowledge and background regarding legislation at all levels. His demonstrated skillset is well established: approachable, responsive and concerned for Granby. Afford him the opportunity to get the job done!

John and Maureen Eberly

Mark spent decades of his life in service to our country and will continue to do so with dedication to his home district and Connecticut.

Vote for Mark and watch him provide us will excellent representation in the state legislature in the coming years.

R W Maier

As an independent voter, I prefer candidates based on their leadership skills, demonstrated proven track record and not party affiliation. For the position of Connecticut House Representative for the 62th district I believe that the reelection of Mark Anderson, a Granby resident, is our best choice.

Connecticut, in my opinion, in the upcoming years, will continue to face challenges on many matters of concern to us all. Recognizing that major parties often take positions that can be diametrically opposed, we need a legislature that is balanced not only in numbers but maintains the ability to compromise. Laws produced by consensus in negotiations will serve our state and its citizens positively. I believe Mark Anderson is the candidate that can manage that objective. He has demonstrated in his past term to be a representative to support our needs in a constructive and positive manner.

Town of Granby Meeting Calendar

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November 2024

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Support for Becker I am writing to state my strong support for Kim Becker as by far the best candidate for our representative from the 62nd General Assembly District.

Kim and her family are long time Granby residents. Anyone who is involved in volunteer service in Granby knows Kim, and know she gives 110 percent to all she does for our community.

Kim is involved in our community in so many ways, and has worked tirelessly for us. She is the Chair of the Granby Education Foundation, working to provide more opportunities for Granby’s young people. She is a member of

Letters cont’d. on p. 5 The Drummer letters and opinion policy has been updated effective with the October 2024 issue.

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

Board of Selectmen, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Mondays, Nov. 4 and 18 Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Police Dept.

Community Room, Monday, Nov. 25 Board of Education, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesdays, Nov. 6 and 20 Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Tuesdays, Nov. 12 and 26

The Granby Drummer

A volunteer, non-profit publication established in 1970. The Granby Drummer (ISSN 1547-1497) is published monthly except January and August by Citizens for a Better Granby at 11 North Granby Road, Granby, CT 06035. It’s delivered free of charge to all Granby households and businesses. Out-of-town subscriptions are $25 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Granby, CT, and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE GRANBY DRUMMER P.O. Box 165, Granby, CT 06035-0165 Copyright ©2024 Citizens for a Better Granby, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, all rights reserved.

CBG Board Kathy Norris, Chair Sam Mikus, Vice Chair Karen Cleary, Treasurer Flo Bishoff, Secretary Carol Bressor, Karen Handville, Roger Hayes Rebecca Mikus, Dave Tolli, Lew Noble Staff Jen Bell, Managing Editor Leisa Ritchie, Production Supervisor Chris Levandowski, Copy Editor Amanda Lindberg, Copy Editor Rick Handville, Photo Editor Kathy Agresta, Carol Bressor, Nancy Dudenhofer, Karen Handville, Rita Isaacson, Patricia Kovaleski, Andrea Leshinskie, Eileen Longhi, Nicole Muller, Patty Sansone, Donna Schedinger, Faith Tyldsley Reporters & Contributors Kate Bogli, AnneMarie Cox, Rob Flanigan, Mark Fiorentino, Monique Fitzpatrick, Bernadette Gentry, C.J. Gibson, Mike Guarco, Jay Harder, Holly Johnson, Brian Liss, Nicole Muller, Shirley Murtha, Trish Percival, Kim Pereira, Scott Riley, Faith Tyldsley, Todd Vibert, Laura Wolfe, Amber Wyzik, Sandy Yost Advertising Team Deneika Janski, Advertising Coordinator Fran Brown, Deborah Kulwich Website Manager Jake Kean Subscriptions & Delivery Sam & Rebecca Mikus

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesday, Nov. 13 Development Commission, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesday, Nov. 13

GRANBY FOOD BANK VISITING NURSE & HOSPICE OF LITCHFIELD COUNTY

We currently need Thanksgiving items (cranberry sauce, stuffing, various sides, crispy fried onions, potato mixes, canned gravy) Jar spaghetti sauces Progresso soups Cookies/crackers Beef stew/ corned beef hash Baked beans/ravioli Toilet paper, dish soap, toothpaste

Donations can be dropped off at the VNA office on Salmon Brook Street

UPDATED LETTERS & OPINION POLICY The Drummer appreciates hearing from its readers.

Letters and opinions do not necessarily reflect the views of the CBG Board and the Drummer.

The length of letters will be held to 250 words and less, and opinion pieces shall not exceed 500 words.

To be published, material must be signed and include an address and phone number.

This information will not be given to anyone other than the necessary editorial staff.

Material from readers who do not reside in Granby will have the town of residence noted at publication.

Only one letter or opinion piece per household will be considered for publication in each issue.

The Drummer reserves the right to edit, shorten or not publish a submission, and to run the material in any electronic form. Material becomes the property of the Drummer.

Email your letters to:

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November 2024

The Granby Drummer

A Look Ahead

By Michael B. Guarco, Jr., Chair, Board of Finance As summer winds down and autumn approaches, the board of finance shifts its focus from the close-out of the FY24 budget to monitoring the current FY25 budget and developing FY26, which runs from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. Many factors affect the FY26 budget in both the revenue and the expenditure side. Some factors are relatively stable and predictable, while others are more variable, if not volatile.

Local revenues tend to be fairly stable, though in the recent years, real growth in the grand list was somewhat higher than in the previous decade.

This has been driven primarily by the apartment and duplex complex at The Grand across from Floydville Road, the soon-to-be-completed residential subdivision of Harness Way located on the old fairgrounds on Route 20 west of town hall, and now the Station 280 apartments just north of Granby Center. The latter two will impact the upcoming grand list update for Oct. 1, 2024, and to a lesser degree the list for next Oct. 1, 2025 as well. Beyond that, nothing significant has been approved to benefit the grand list. Thus, the projected rate of increase, running between 1 to 2 percent in recent years, will fall back to less than 1 percent annually. We need to recognize that such growth in town can have consequences affecting the cost of providing municipal and educational services.

Local revenue paid via fees through town hall, such as building permits, property conveyance taxes, marriage licenses etc. are typically fairly stable and are a small piece of the revenue picture. These revenue sources have run higher in recent years due to construction but will now fall back closer to the norm as those projects wind down. The interest earnings on cash have been higher in recent years but most likely will start to recede as financial markets adjust to the Federal Reserve rate reductions and a weakening economy.

While Granby has virtually no federal money through the general fund budget, there are a number of grants that the town and the school system operating boards manage directly.

They are outside of the purview of the board of finance and its span of control over local taxpayer dollars. Many of them are state government s educationrelated program. Such grants appear in the springtime budget book but are not within the combined municipal and education budget that we vote on in April at the town meeting. A major federal program is the pandemic related ARPA money which the town has put to good use in numerous ways, once approved through their public meeting overview process.

Revenue components from the state are very different. Towns like Granby ultimately get back in state aid the equivalent of about 20 percent of what Granby taxpayers pay to the state.

Many cities see more than half of their local budget funded by the state while an Avon or Greenwich see less than 10 percent.

The Education Cost Sharing grant has generally been flat and slightly declining for most of the past six years as the burden shifts to the towns and local taxpayers. For decades this grant steadily increased aid to the town and to a degree kept pace with increasing costs and enrollment. Even worse is how the state handles the special education excess cost grant that reimburses the towns for what they spend on an individual student that is more than 4.5 times what a town spends on a typical student. The state should cover the remaining 100 percent but uses a tiered formula that just a year ago was adjusted to provide, in Granby’s case, 88 percent of that overage. But total claims statewide came in higher than the state budgeted. Instead of reallocating money to close the gap, the state executive branch just shorted the towns. In Granby’s case, it was more than $200,000 from what we anticipated based on the state’s own formula per statute. While the governor and some legislators from both sides of the aisle called for the legislature to act, the legislature leadership opted to do nothing, leaving the towns and local taxpayers to absorb the shortfall. Rather than fulfilling the formula reimbursement commitment to the towns and taxpayers, these monies were directed to where that leadership felt were a greater priority.

Page 5

Opinion

Vote your conscience

By Skip Mission The election has brought abortion to the forefront of my mind. Money issues will “ebb and flow”, but life and death issues take priority. I did some homework and also emailed Granby’s state representative candidates. In summary, the responses were Kim Becker (Democrat) being pro-choice/reproductive rights defending abortion and Mark Anderson (Republican) being pro-life.

My homework found that: There are approximately 1,000,000 abortions in the United States annually. That surprised me. Eighty-seven percent of abortions are to unwed mothers.

The mortality rate for normal births is 17 for every 100,000. There are two million couples waiting to adopt in America, however the complaint is that adoptions are too expensive.

Based on current mortality rates, the risk of death if these women didn’t

Letters cont’d. from p. 4

the Granby Ambulance Association’s Board of Directors, helping to ensure the safety of our residents in emergency situations. Whenever there is a need in our community for someone to step up and get to work on a problem or an issue, Kim is always first in line. Her commitment to public service is complete and unconditional.

Kim will bring this same commitment to public service and willingness to work for all of the towns in our district, including Granby. She will work collaboratively with her colleagues on both sides of the aisle in Hartford, and help secure our district’s fair share of state aid to towns. She will work just as hard for us as the Representative of the 62nd District as she has always done for our town!

have an abortion would be significantly smaller (170 women) than the numbers of abortions. I’m not for the quick big stick/knee jerk approach to legislation and there are many sub-issues to writing public policy and attendant legislation. Both candidates recognize that.

However, per my homework, where are adoption and the man’s responsibilities in these discussions?

I can’t in good conscience ignore the numbers, and the underlying premise of treating human life (regardless of the form) as dehumanized expendable property. This is morally wrong and destructive to marriages and families.

We are “endowed by our Creator” with inalienable (God given) rights, the first being life. If the fetus was not alive, one would not have to kill it. I advocate that you vote your conscience in the coming local elections. Vote.

Please vote for Kim Becker for the 62nd District Representative in the Tuesday, Nov. 5 election.

Christine Chinni

I am writing today to lend my support to Kim Becker for the 62nd State House seat. I have known Kim for a number of years and I can assure you her qualifications and compassion make her the only choice in November.

Kim and I have had multiple conversations around health care. As a local healthcare provider, I see the battle day after day with poor coverage and increasing expense of our privatized health care system. Kim has assured me she will be up to the challenge of fighting the special interests that continue to increase costs, corporatize and monetize our healthcare system.

Letters cont’d. on p. 6

—we hope to see you again very soon!

Page 6

Letters cont’d. from p. 5

Managing the high cost of healthcare is both pro-business and pro-people.

Kim is committed to making sure that all individuals will have access to affordable, quality healthcare. Kim will also stand strong to support women, in a post-Roe world, with access to comprehensive reproductive care.

I am confident that Kim will be a strong voice for the small towns that make up the 62nd District that includes Granby. She will keep an eye on ALL the residents’ needs in our communities. Please join me in supporting Kim Becker for the 62nd on November 5th.

Dr. Frederick Moffa

Support for Becker

The 62nd district of Connecticut deserves a representative who will listen and be interested in understanding the concerns of all constituents and fight hard to support the issues important to them. We need a representative who has a strong commitment to making our rural district the best it can be and believes in partnering with other such district representatives to ensure we have a collective seat at the table in Hartford. I believe Kim Becker is the best choice for our district and I enthusiastically endorse her in the race for State Representative.

I met Kim as a result of my interest and active support of local politics. During her years of increasing responsibility in various campaigns, I got to know her and understand what she stood for and, more importantly, the person she is. Because of that, my wife and I have actively canvassed for her. I’ve had the good fortune of going house-to-house with Kim on several occasions. During those visits I witnessed Kim actively listening and engaging with voters on the issues that were important to them regardless of where those voters stood politically.

Kim’s active and diverse community involvement is impressive. Her particular focus on the needs of rural towns, small and agricultural business, healthcare including mental health, education, seniors and affordable housing really stand out to me.

I urge you to join me in voting for Kim Becker as State Representative on Nov. 5. She will be a voice that represents all of us.

Mike Smoolca

Support for Becker

I was First Selectman in Barkhamsted for 16 years and very strongly support Kim Becker for our State Representative. She has a strong history of working on behalf of people and will serve our

The Granby Drummer towns and residents regardless of their political leaning.

Her credentials are impeccable: masters in social work; chair, Granby Education Foundation, vice president Stony Hill Village, Granby Commission on Aging, Granby Ambulance Association.

Becker’s priorities and focus areas are clearly needed: Reform the tax structure to make it less regressive. Reduce reliance on property tax and work at the state level to use state reserves to help towns reduce local taxes.

Fully fund public education—restore Educational Cost Sharing and the funding for special needs students to its full value.

Becker is a strong believer in and supporter of women’s rights to assure they can make their own decisions about their body and reproductive healthcare.

Emergency management services, both medical and firefighters, are terribly underfunded and need help. They are facing a shortage of fire and ambulance volunteers, which increases the need for paid staff. The cost of large equipment has gone out of sight.

Her commitment to small business is unwavering. She will make it easier for business owners to succeed by providing better access to health care, eliminating red tape and by making sure state and federal resources are better known.

Please join me and vote for Kim Becker.

Donald S. Stein Barkhamsted I am writing in support of Kim Becker for State Representative. I met Kim over a decade ago when our children attended Valley Pre-School where Kim served on the board. Her dedication to our community has been clear from the start.

As a fertility medicine physician, I have spent the last 20 years helping families grow. With the overturning of Roe v. Wade, women’s health across America is under attack. In many states, limited access to reproductive healthcare has already resulted in preventable complications and deaths. The attacks extend to fertility treatments, with the Senate blocking the Right to IVF Act and some states trying to ban IVF (in vitro fertilization) entirely.

These policies are now straining Connecticut’s healthcare system, as pregnant people from out of state come here seeking care they cannot get at home. Our hospitals, already busy serving residents, are facing additional pressure. Veterans, too, are struggling to access IVF, a service they deserve

but are being denied due to political barriers.

Kim Becker strongly supports access to reproductive healthcare and believes medical decisions should stay between doctors and their patients. She will fight to keep Connecticut a state where everyone—especially women and veterans—can get the care they need.

I urge readers to vote for Kim Becker.

A vote for Kim is a vote to protect reproductive healthcare in Connecticut and support the health of all residents.

Kelly Lynch, MD I have known Kim for at least 10 years and have been so impressed with her community involvement. It seems that at every event in town, there is Kim! I am very aware of her compassion for our senior citizens and education system. Kim serves on the Granby Commission on Aging and the Board of Stony Hill Village in Granby Center and too often these organizations are overlooked. Kim’s involvement in the Granby Public Schools is very evident with her leadership in the Granby Education Foundation, which provides our students with cultural and educational opportunities that are not funded by the Board of Education.

Kim is also a big supporter of our first responders and funding the necessary equipment needed to keep us all safe.

Kim seems to find the time to really get involved in ALL aspects of Granby life and for that reason I am supporting her election to the 62nd District on Nov. 5.

William Ross People who know Kim Becker agree: she’s a super hard worker; she has a positive, down-to-earth approach; and her views are right in line with those of the residents of the 62nd District.

State Representative Mark Anderson is a mystery. In person and in his public materials he’s a nice guy who holds moderate views. But if you look at the votes he casts on our behalf—he’s very different.

As a member of the Environment Committee, Anderson voted against reducing the use of toxic pesticides, “neonics.” He voted against making plastic straws in restaurants optional, to reduce plastic waste. He voted against protecting marine mammals in Long Island Sound from going deaf due to seismic mapping and drilling.

He voted against taking action on the climate crisis.

It’s very rare for a legislator to cast the only “No” vote. Mark Anderson was the only member of the Veterans Committee to vote against exempting veterans from bus fares, the only member of the Commerce Committee to vote against funding for tourism, arts and culture groups. Out of 151 members of the House of Representatives, he was the only vote against allowing

November 2024 same-sex couples full parental rights.

Legislators should represent the views of their constituents. It’s their job. The Mark Anderson who represents us in Hartford is very different from the image he cultivates at home.

He’s out of touch with the people of the 62nd District. It’s time for a change.

David Desiderato We moved to Granby 16 years ago so our kids could grow up with their grandparents. I became a room parent and a Girl Scout leader, and I began seeing the challenges at the grassroots level.

As the former chair of the Valley Preschool board, I saw how small businesses stretch to adhere to state regulations that don’t care about them. I became its first compliance officer.

As the chair of the Granby Education Foundation, I feel the impact when state funding formulas underfund rural communities. When the state fails us, communities rally to invest in sustainable programs that enrich students’ experiences.

As a board member of the Granby Ambulance Association, I recognize the emerging funding gaps that risk our community’s access to first responders.

The state must protect not hinder emergency care.

As a board member of both Stony Hill Village and the Granby Commission on Aging, I understand the challenges seniors face to remain in their community. We are confronting deferred maintenance and building local, state, and federal relationships, public and private, to secure support.

These gaps testify to ineffective representation in the State Assembly over many years. Addressing them requires a small-town ethic, engagement with colleagues, and respect for the people your policy affects. Let’s tackle sky-high energy bills, fairly fund education and protect the freedom to love, choose and speak out.

We need a strong, unifying voice in the State Assembly with a track record of local engagement.

I humbly ask for your vote on Nov. 5.

Kim Becker

Support for Kissel

Senator John Kissel is a person who listens, cares and acts. I am a member of a dysfunctional labor union whose leadership has consistently proposed legislation without its purpose and content being disclosed to members until after the bills had passed. The union leaders have testified that members and workers supported the bills, even though 95 percent of the workers had no knowledge of the pending bills.

This lack of transparency occurred again during the last legislative session, when yet another bill was presented by the union, its contents a mystery to 95 percent of the members and workers.

Letters cont’d. on p. 7

November 2024

The Granby Drummer

Page 7

Granby battery energy storage project overviewed

By Paul Williamson, Senior Manager of Development, Key Capture Energy As the lead developer for Key Capture Energy (KCE) in Connecticut, I want to introduce our company and our proposed battery energy storage project here in Granby. I have had the opportunity to present the project to the Granby Board of Selectmen and received feedback from several residents at a community meeting hosted

by KCE in August.

Key Capture Energy is an experienced developer, owner and operator of battery energy storage facilities.

We pride ourselves on being a trusted and valued member of the communities where our projects are located and working with our host communities proactively and constructively. KCE operates 14 battery energy storage facilities in Texas and New York totaling 623 megawatts (MW) and has been developing projects here in Connecticut since 2018.

Our proposed project in Granby, KCE CT 11, is a relatively small 5 MW facility that will be constructed on less than two acres of land and is not affiliated with the solar farm being developed nearby. The proposal includes visual barriers that will make the facility virtually invisible once completed.

The facility does not require water during operations and is specifically designed to contain any fluid leaks.

Additional information about the project will be shared on the Connecticut Siting Council website under petition number 1637. The permit review process at the Siting Council is designed to address concerns thoroughly and offers multiple opportunities to learn about the project.

Battery energy storage will play a critical role in helping Granby and the Northeast region meet carbon reduction goals and stabilize the electric grid as more renewable energy comes online. These facilities can store energy directly from the grid during times of low energy demand and respond within seconds to help keep the lights on for households and businesses during times of high demand. In recent years in California and Texas (the states with the most battery energy storage), batteries have consistently helped meet electricity demand during the hottest summer days that strain the power grid to prevent electrical brownouts or blackouts.

Safety is Key Capture’s top priority in developing and operating projects.

We strictly adhere to industry best practices through comprehensive operations standards and promote a culture of safety throughout the company.

Once operating, the proposed facility will be monitored 24/7/365 and can be remotely turned off in real time if anything is not operating correctly.

The batteries in the facility undergo rigorous safety and compliance testing before being approved. This includes national and international fire association testing, specifically the UL 9540A test related to fire and thermal events. KCE’s safety experts will work with Granby’s emergency response personnel to develop an Emergency Operations Plan that will include comprehensive contingency plans, taking into account all available resources.

We look forward to constructive engagement in the coming months and years to ensure this project can help deliver reliable electricity for the residents of Granby and the surrounding area.

Town Hall Happenings New kitchen, walking path and technology on tap

By Catherine Lanyon, Town of Granby Communications Staff While youth soccer and field hockey have almost wrapped up for the season, Granby recreation has some other fun events coming up. Seats are limited at the upcoming Comedy Night, taking place on Saturday, Nov. 16. Doors open at 7 p.m. for this wonderful adults-only evening, and you can bring your own snacks. For the little ones aged 4–6, there is a new session of Art: Colorful Creations running from Nov. 19 to Dec. 10 at the Holcomb Farm kitchen.

For more information on all of the recreation events, please visit granbyct. myrec.com The Granby Senior Center has a new commercial grade kitchen, funded by a Small-Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) Grant. The improved kitchen will enhance future meals that will provide a gathering opportunity for elderly community members to enjoy a meal prepared on-site. Volunteers who staff the regularly scheduled meals at the Senior Center were trained on food safety procedures prior to the resumption of the breakfast groups.

Letters cont’d. from p. 5

Thankfully, Senator Kissel listened to our concerns and was instrumental in preventing passage of a bill that would have benefited the leadership of our organization and been detrimental to the rest of us.

Construction has begun on the paved walking path at Salmon Brook Park.

Work is expected to be completed in December. We look forward to seeing citizens enjoying the completed path.

Granby Public Library is hosting Travel Talk: Going to Extremes on Zoom on Thursday, Nov. 21 from 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Nationally-known adventure journalist Peter Mandel will share his stories and photos about his visits to the world’s far corners, while traveling for The Washington Post, National Geographic, and more. This event is free for participants and sponsored by the Friends of the Granby Public Libraries. Register online at granby-ct.gov/library Various technology and infrastructure improvements are being made in buildings in the town hall complex as part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

The list of improvements is long, but includes audio equipment upgrades in the town hall meeting room and senior center community room, security camera upgrades and storage improvements at the police department, and cyber security and network upgrades across the town hall and at the police department.

It’s not easy to oppose a union and its lobbyist. Those of us who did oppose it were successful in large part because Senator Kissel is one who listened, cared and acted.

Please vote for Senator Kissel.

Barbara Coffey Old Saybrook

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Page 8

The Granby Drummer

GRANBY PLANNING & ZONING HIGHLIGHTS SEPTEMBER 24, 2024 Members present: Mark Lockwood, Eric Myers, Robert Lavitt, Steve Muller, Brennan Sheahan and Christine Chinni.

Also present: Director of Community Development Abigail Kenyon and Land Use Coordinator Renee Deltenre.

Public Hearings

The commission heard the applications for 254 and 256 Salmon Brook Street at the same time.

Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 3.12.3 for a professional office and associated site improvements for property located at 254 Salmon Brook Street, CE Zone.

Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Sections 8.16 and 8.6.14 for a restaurant with outdoor dining and live outdoor entertainment, and for an illuminated sign and associated site improvements, for property located at 256 Salmon Brook Street, COCE Zone.

Property owner John Pagliaro, applicant Tara Pagliaro, land surveyor Brian Denno, architect Lori DiBattisto and applicant Meghan Peterson were present. Pagliaro discussed revisions that were made to the applications and submitted to town staff just prior to the meeting. The proposed hours of operation for the first-floor professional office tenant within the existing garage have been modified to Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The proposed hours of operation for the coffee shop have been modified to 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week, with outdoor dining limited to 9 p.m., except on Fridays and Saturdays when it is permitted until 10 p.m.

The applicant is requesting a directory sign with LED lights on the ground that would be directed upward to illuminate the sign face.

This directory sign would contain three, 1.5’ by 3’ panels and it would be located at the northeastern corner of 256 Salmon Brook Street, along the Hartford Avenue entrance.

Pagliaro presented a landscaping plan for both properties and provided an overview of the materials used on the exterior of the buildings.

Denno provided an overview of the changes that were made in response to staff comments and stated that the town engineer has been in communication with the applicant’s engineer.

Since the revised plans were submitted this evening, Kenyon noted that town staff has not had time to review the drawings in further detail; however, most comments appear to have been addressed.

Lockwood expressed concerns regarding the proposed traffic pattern. Denno indicated that he will modify the site plans. DiBattisto indicated the patio lighting has not been finalized; however, the intent is to have soft lighting via string lights. Peterson eliminated the request for live outdoor entertainment and would prefer outdoor speakers for background music instead.

Public Comment Dave Roberts, 6 Thronebrook Road, spoke in favor of the application. As treasurer of the Salmon Brook Historical Society, he and other members met with the owner/applicant to discuss the application and are pleased with the proposal. A letter was provided for the file.

The public hearing was continued to Oct. 8, so town staff can review the revised plans in detail and prepare a draft motion.

Commissioner Reports and Correspondence

Lockwood informed the commission that he received a formal notice from the Connecticut Siting Council that a public hearing on the battery storage facility will occur on Nov. 19.

Looking for complete meeting information?

You can access the entire minutes from any town meeting by visiting granby-ct.gov/AgendaCenter

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November 2024

Carol Laun’s life highlighted for Women’s Group On Oct. 2, local author Faith Tyldsley presented a program to the Women’s Breakfast Group based on her book, To Granby with Love, about the life of Carol Laun, the late historian and archivist at the Salmon Brook Historical Society.

PUBLIC WORKS

Transfer Station hours: The transfer station will be open Wednesday mornings (8 a.m. to noon) through Nov. 20.

Trash Holiday: Thanksgiving Thursday, Nov. 28 is a holiday for Paine’s. All Thursday and Friday trash 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. They won’t swamp your inbox; notifications are only sent if there is a holiday or weather event that will affect trash service. Sign up at painesinc.com

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Winter preparation: DPW crews will be out marking plow routes and trimming trees. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your property, reach out to the DPW at 860844-5241.

Extra Trash: What do you do if you have extra trash? Town approved “extra trash” bags are available for purchase at $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 Road, 7:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or from the transfer station attendant during transfer station hours.

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November 2024

The Granby Drummer

GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 Present members: Liz Barlow, Heather Lombardo, Monica Logan, Donna Nolan, David Peling, Karen Richmond-Godard, Ali Zafar, and Student Representative Katie O’Neill.

Chairperson’s Report

Logan shared that Governor Ned Lamont issued a statement promoting the elimination of cell phones in schools due to their high level of distraction. Cell phones are permitted at the middle school either in backpacks or in pockets to be used only before and after school hours.

The high school has a bell-to-bell policy that cell phones cannot be used during class periods.

Logan admitted that in the past, policies at both schools were not consistently enforced. Schools are working to be consistent in enforcement of the policies. The board, administration and staff will be working together to see what can be done long-term.

Public Comment

Nick Faraco, 10 Fawn Drive, stated he is a former teacher and guidance counselor and shared his concern about a survey that was distributed to students. Faraco the survey inappropriate for the educational setting and has nothing to do with education. It is his hope that Granby reconsiders this line of thinking and he asked the board to educate themselves about the gender transitioning of students.

Mike Kramarenko, 150 Notch Road, complained about the meeting which was scheduled for Wednesday, June 19 was instead moved to Tuesday, June 18 with no communication about the date being changed. He also shared that he called the Superintendent’s office regarding the survey given to students and was not able to speak to the Superintendent but only to the Assistant Superintendent. He also stated that he feels teachers should not ask students about their activities outside of school.

Susan Regan, Hungary Hill Road, shared the following concerns: 1) Test scores notably disappointing with minimal improvement; 2) Current direction is not beneficial to student welfare - DEI and BLM are taking time from education; 3) Cell phones 100 percent not in school or locked up in cell phone pockets; 4) Sexually oriented questions without authority to do so; and 5) Transgendering and how to address students—it is not helping students.

Superintendent’s Report

With regard to student surveys, Superintendent Cheri Burke said it is her wish for parents to have full transparency and understanding when dealing with surveys. The definition of survey is around official capacity, i.e., climate and culture surveys, mental health surveys or federally/state funded surveys.

Parents can opt out of these types of surveys and the district supports that. Google forms or questions to students at the start of the year are commonplace and ways for teachers to get to know students. Last year, it was directed that questions must be optional and this did not happen. Two or three teachers sent out surveys and included a variety of questions.

Burke emphasized that picking up the phone and directly speaking to the right staff member is essential.

Superintendent’s Annual Goals

Burke presented her goals for the 2024–25 school year to the board and stated there are two primary goals again this year: 1) To improve student achievement, academic performance and opportunity at all grade levels; and, 2) To enhance communication and build trusting relationships. Please see the full minutes in the town website.

Roof Replacement Project

The board approved the Granby Memorial High School roof replacement project as complete as recommended by the School Projects Building Committee.

Page 9

Staging Edgar Allen Poe play is a challenge

By Mikayla Munson Granby Memorial High School’s dramatic arts program is taking on The Twisted Tales of Poe as its fall play. The rendition of this 1940s radio play is dark and twisted, as it follows four stories from Edgar Allan Poe: Tell Tale Heart, Cask of Amontillado, The Raven, and The Black Cat. Four different leads will portray these stories through staged radio dramas. The acting is complemented by sound effects produced by the set crew live on stage as these stories are told, which the director described as “Not a challenge, but an adventure” that she is eager to take on and perfect.

Erin Dugan, Granby’s director this year, fell in love with theater at a young age and has found a passion to help others find themselves within the arts as well.

Although this is her first year at Granby, she has been directing for 12 years with Valley Student Theater in Granby and Opera House in Enfield.

Dugan’s favorite part about this show is that the audience will be able to “Sit there and close their eyes and know exactly what’s happening on the stage.”

This adds an uncommon element to the show.

Cast member Jacob Tong, playing Officer Simpson, finds stepping into this

Granby Education Foundation

Barlow stated grants were awarded as follows: $16,000 to the high school Drama Program to purchase new wireless mics and related equipment, $200 for a Wells Road

role enticing because working with a new director was exciting, “It’s been easier to find the character that I’m portraying because Erin does exercises with us to make us feel like our character and get to know them.” Jacob is most eager to show the audience the sound effects, “They elevate the experience as an audience member.”

Behind the scenes working with these actors is the stage crew. Lauren De Los Reyes has been a part of the set crew for three years and is beginning this fall as a set manager. Lauren explains that this show is different because no props are being moved. The set crew, normally doing their best to stay hidden while seamlessly moving props, will be onstage in costume to produce sound effects as the stories are being told. Stage crew members and actors will have to be synched in storytelling and audio. Lauren said, “I think the most interesting part is two people essentially working together at the same time, but one person is voicing and the other is making sounds so the audience can imagine the movement.”

Editor’s Note: Please also see the related article by the Fine Arts Booster Club on p. 33.

graphic novel unit in 4th Grade and $400 to the middle school for baskets and discs to start up a new disc golf program.

Page 10

The Granby Drummer

Busy time ahead for Granby Registrars One-way Election Day traffic at GMHS

For the Presidential 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 Granby Community Gym, located in Granby Memorial High School in the center of town. Traffic is anticipated to be extremely heavy. One-way traffic is required. To access the gym, use the high school’s entrance off North Granby Road (Route 189) next to Public Works, and leave the polls from Salmon Brook Street (Route 10/202) next to the middle school.

All Granby schools will be closed on Election Day. 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 and 10 a.m., and the second rush will be between 4 and 8 p.m.

Expect a line to vote on Nov. 5

When you come to the polls, be prepared to wait—be patient and dress warmly. To speed check-in at the polls, please have a photo ID handy. Should you not have your ID, there is a form to fill out at the moderator’s table to swear and attest your identity, but only if you have previously proven your identity.

Voting is by district, and alphabetical by street. Not sure which district you are in? The southwest corner of Granby, roughly six percent of the town, lives in District 2; check in the lobby for the short street list.

IVS Ballot Marking System is available for everyone

A touch screen voting option is available for those who have trouble using a pen or seeing the ballot. This system can also read aloud the ballot to a voter, allowing everyone to vote privately and independently. It is a printer ballot marking system that fills the ovals as requested by the voter.

Ballot Question

“Shall the Constitution of the State be amended to permit the General Assembly to allow each voter to vote by absentee ballot?” You will be asked to vote yes or no.

Explanatory language: Under the current state constitution, qualified voters may cast an absentee vote only if they are unable to vote in person at their polling place on election day due to, 1) absence from their city or town; 2) sickness or physical disability; or 3) their religious beliefs prohibiting secular activity on a day. If this amendment is approved, the state constitution would no longer limit the reasons why absentee voting may be used. Therefore, it would expand the state legislature’s authority to pass laws regarding voting by qualified voters who will not appear at their polling place on election day.

Early Voting is here Oct. 21 through Nov. 3

Ballots cast during early voting are sealed and held in the town hall vault until counted on election day, Nov. 5. To assure that anyone casting a ballot only votes once, a statewide check is done. You will be required to sign an affirmation that you will not vote twice before you receive a ballot, and finally, in real time the envelope is scanned into the statewide data base. Early voting ballots cannot be rescinded once cast.

Here is the process: • Come to town hall and enter the line by the side entrance of town hall.

• Show a valid ID or if your identity has been previously confirmed, fill out a form attesting to your identity.

• Electronic check-in to confirm you are a registered Granby voter.

• Fill out the early voting envelope, affirming you have not/will not vote again.

• Cross off on the voter registry by district paper list, same as at the polls.

• Vote your ballot in a privacy booth and seal it in your envelope.

• Second check-in to cross your name off electronically in statewide database.

• Place your sealed ballot into the slot of the black bin.

Same day registration is available throughout early voting for new voters.

Sign up for the Election Traffic Team now

Poll workers are still needed for helping direct traffic at the high school on Nov. 5. The registrar’s office is compiling an email list of poll workers. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and can choose to volunteer for a few hours, as desired—shifts are three hours. A short Sunday afternoon training class will be provided.

Calendar Review

Same day registration is available throughout early voting and election day.

Oct. 21–31 and Nov. 1–3, early voting will be held at town hall from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Oct. 29 and 31, early voting will be held at town hall from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Stop by the registrars’ office in the town hall to register to vote, to determine your voting district or to make corrections in person every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Voter registration forms are also available at town halls, libraries, DMV offices and online at the Secretary of the State’s website: sots.ct.gov

Questions?

Contact the registrars, Laura Wolfe and Paul Willis, at 860-844-5322 or -5323 or registrarofvoters@granby-ct.gov

November 2024

CANDIDATE LIST FOR NOV. 5 ELECTION Voters will be able to vote for one candidate in each category to serve the term noted.

Presidential Electors (1/20/2025 – 1/20/2029) Harris and Walz, Democratic Party Trump and Vance, Republican Party Stein and Ware, Green Party Oliver and ter Maat, Libertarian Party Kennedy, Jr. and Shanahan, Petitioning Candidate United States Senator (1/3/2025 – 1/3/2031) Christopher S. Murphy, Democratic Party Matthew M. Corey, Republican Party Christopher S. Murphy, Working Families Party Justin C. Paglino, Green Party Robert Finley Hyde, Cheaper Gas Groceries Party Representative in Congress 1 (1/3/2025 – 1/3/2027) John B. Larson, Democratic Party Jim Griffin, Republican Party John B. Larson, Working Families Party Mary L. Sanders, Green Party

State Senator 7 (1/8/2025 – 1/6/2027) Cynthia Mangini, Democratic Party John A. Kissel, Republican Party Cynthia Mangini, Working Families Party John A. Kissel, Independent Party State Senator 8 (1/8/2025 – 1/6/2027) Paul Honig, Democratic Party Lisa Seminara, Republican Party Paul Honig, Working Families Party Lisa Seminara, Independent Party State Representative 62 (1/8/2025 – 1/6/2027) Kim Becker, Democratic Party Mark W. Anderson, Republican Party Kim Becker, Working Families Party Mark W. Anderson, Independent Party Registrar of Voters (1/8/2025 – 1/3/2029) Laura Wolfe, Democratic Party Karen Antonucci, Republican Party

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

Winter season is fast approaching. There are steps you can take to make sure you are prepared. If you have a generator, be sure to testrun it monthly and have the appropriate fuel on hand. Service your furnace. Seal windows and doors to minimize drafts.

Energy Assistance

Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) is designed to help offset home energy costs of Connecticut’s lower income families, specifically those households whose annual income falls at or below 60 percent of the state median income ($87,751 for a family of four).

Be advised that benefit levels are lower than last year due to less allocated state funding this year. Call Granby Social Services at 860844-5350 to schedule an intake appointment or apply on-line at: ct.gov/heatinghelp/applyonline

Eversource Assistance Programs

Winter protection for income eligible households prevents shutoff between November 1, 2023 through May 1, 2024. Call Eversource at 800-286-2828 or visit: eversource.com/content/ residential/account-billing/payment-assistance

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.

Discount Prescription Drug Program: Save up to 80 percent on medications. All FDA-approved prescriptions and select overthe-counter products are eligible for discounts.

Compare prices online. Enroll in a minute. No membership fee. No age or income restrictions.

Sign up to get your digital discount card at ArrayRxCard.com or call 800-913-4146.

Resources and Services

Affordable Connectivity Plan: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a U.S. government program run by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to help lowincome households pay for internet service and connected devices like a laptop or tablet. Find out more by visiting affordableconnectivity.gov Child Welfare Resources: Tools for supporting virtual times for families and child welfare workforce tools are available through the Child Welfare Information Gateway at cwig@communications.childwelfare.gov Domestic Violence: If you need help or just someone to talk to, please visit CTSafeConnect.org or call or text (888) 774-2900. Advocates available 24/7.

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

Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-2738255. When it Builds Up, Talk it Out, a campaign launched by United Way 211 and DCF, you can talk to a professional by calling 833258-5011 or talkitoutct.com State of Connecticut Department of Social Services: For assistance with applying for benefits, such as Medicare Savings Programs, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)/formerly known as Food Stamps, call (860) 724-6443 x 275 for the Benefits Enrollment Center.

Food Resources

Granby Food Pantry: Located at 248 Salmon Brook Street, pantry hours are Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.–noon and Thursdays, 2 p.m.–3:30 p.m. Before using the Granby Food Pantry, you must qualify with the Town of Granby Social Services Department. An appointment is necessary; call 860-844-5350 to schedule.

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

Mobile FoodShare: Tuesdays, Nov. 12, and 26, 1–1:30 p.m. Please park behind Granby Congregational Church and Visiting Nurses Building only. Please remember to bring your own bags. For more locations or weather cancellations, visit ctfoodbank.org/get-help/Connecticut-food-banks-mobile-pantry-schedule Life Church Hope 4 Life Food Pantry: Open Wednesdays, Nov. 6 and 26, 2–6 p.m. to members of Life Church as well as anyone who is in need. No qualification necessary. Please bring your own bags. For more information, please call the church office at 860-653-3308.

Open Cupboard Pantry: Located at Granby Congregational Church, North Campus, 219 North Granby Road. Distributions are on Fridays, 3-4 p.m. Please enter the church parking lot via North entrance on Stratton Road. Call the church at 860-653-4537 with any questions.

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

November 2024

The Granby Drummer

Page 11

Bottle, can drive supports DECA club

By Katie O’Neil

How Granby schools deal with bullying The board of education often hears about issues regarding conflicts between students, or bullying. It’s important that we all understand the definition of bullying as adopted by the state legislature.

Bullying means an act that is direct or indirect and severe, persistent or pervasive, that: (1) causes physical or emotional harm to an individual; (2) places an individual in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm; or (3) infringes on the rights or opportunities of an individual at school.

The schools follow specific procedures in regard to allegations of bullying. First, it is important to note that bullying is an act or incident—the schools never label a child’s behavior as bullying or call the child a bully. Labels stick and cause further harm—it is the act itself that is the issue.

An act of bullying may be reported by a student, parent or even by the school.

Incident reports can be made in a number of ways, including anonymously.

In order for a bullying investigation to begin, the act needs to be recorded on a Report of Suspected Bullying form and submitted to building administration. All parties are then notified by the building administration that a bullying investigation has begun.

The investigation will include speaking with the individuals involved, any possible witnesses and reviewing any artifacts such as texts, security video or other evidence. Once the investigation concludes, parties are notified in writing that the act was “verified,” meaning there is evidence that the act meets the bullying definition above, or “not verified.”

Parents are invited to attend a meeting to discuss the outcome. If verified, a safety plan will be put in place for all individuals involved and disciplinary measures are put into place as appropri-

ate. Results of bullying investigations are kept on file at the school and district level and a count of incidents per school is reported, without identifying data, as required by state law. For context, Granby schools have 1,700 students and last year had 10 reports of bullying of which four were verified.

Oftentimes behavior may be meanspirited or inappropriate, but it may not amount to a verified case of bullying.

Behaviors identified will be addressed if reported, even if they do not meet the bullying definition.

The Granby Board of Education does not play a role in such investigations or incidents as that is the role of the administration. It is important for board members to stay unbiased in case any more serious consequence, such as expulsion, needs to be considered. As discussed in the September issue, FERPA prevents the school district from publicly discussing any disciplinary issues or repercussions a student might experience as a result of an incident.

Bullying isn’t solely a school problem; it is a community-wide concern, often exacerbated by social media use or misuse and cell phone usage. While the school is a likely and convenient venue for bullying, it also occurs everywhere else in the community. It is important that parents stay vigilant in monitoring their children and promptly address actions committed by them or communicate with the parent of the child that may be acting inappropriately.

As discussed in the October issue, we ask that community members keep in mind that social media is not the most accurate source of information in regard to actual issues with the school. If you have a concern, please contact the administration or reach out to askgps@ granbyschools.org

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DECA is a business club at Granby Memorial High School that stands for Distributive Education Clubs of America. However, at GMHS, it now stands for Donate Empty Cans and bottles Always.

The DECA club works to prepare leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe and the club is kicking off the fundraising campaign to help efforts this year. Collection bins are in the cafeteria and throughout the high school to encourage students and staff to donate cans and bottles to the cause.

On Saturday, Nov. 16, from 10 a.m. to noon, there will be a collection of cans and bottles outside the high school’s main entrance. Any donation big or small will be greatly appreciated. If you have a truck and would like to help trans-

Isai Alvarez and Katie O’Neil, GMHS DECA co-presidents. Submitted photo

port the empty bottles and cans to the redemption center, please contact Katie O’Neil at 25oneilk@granbyschools.org or DECA advisor Mrs. Clark at clarks@ granbyschools.org Thank you in advance for your support.

Autumn colors reflected

Rick Orluk’s photo of Creamer Pond on the GLT’s Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve shows autumn to perfection.

Page 12

The Granby Drummer

November 2024

November 2024

The Granby Drummer

Page 13

Granby roundabout garden thrives as a community effort

By Nicole Muller While the origin of the proverb “It takes a village” is unknown, the importance of volunteerism, of neighbors helping neighbors and of giving back to our communities, has long been a valued staple of American life.

Happily, the spirit of volunteerism thrives in Granby. A prominent example is the beautiful garden in the center of the roundabout that was completed at Notch Road and Salmon Brook Street in 2020. It reflects the spirit behind the Welcome to Granby sign first planted there.

“When the Department of Transportation first proposed the roundabout, I thought it was a great solution to slow the traffic at that intersection,” says retired civil engineer Harry Jones, who lives on Notch Road. “The state had a landscape architect on staff who designed a low maintenance garden that was almost all shrubbery, making it very green and dense. In a short time, it became very crowded and overgrown, and I knew the maintenance of it would fall on the board of selectmen and public works department.”

Jones and his wife Sally, a social worker who later owned a flower shop in town, moved to Granby in the 1970s, raised their four children here and are now retired. Avid gardeners, they have the knowledge and knew they could find the time to take on this community project. So Jones pitched his idea to gather a group of volunteers to plant

and maintain a three-season garden at the roundabout. “Selectmen liked the idea and referred me to Kirk Severance, Department of Public Works superintendent, who was happy to give me his approval,” Jones recalls.

A post on the Granby Gardeners Facebook page was successful in recruiting a core group of volunteers. “I was lucky.

People were willing to help,” Jones says. “The biggest issue initially was weeding and spreading mulch, which DPW provided, along with safety vests so we don’t get hurt.” Each spring, DPW dumps mulch along the garden’s apron, and Jones and his volunteers spread it to keep the plants moist while discouraging weeds.

“We then introduced flowering perennials and a few annuals at no cost by transplanting them from our yards,” Jones says. He and Sally, whose property in spring is a field of daffodils, dug up 300 bulbs that they and their volunteers planted. Every spring, the flash of yellow at the roundabout grows as the bulbs naturalize.

“The soil in the roundabout is very rich, so the cone flowers, black-eyed Susans, cleomes and evening primrose that we planted are flourishing,” Jones says. “To me, it’s a highly visible asset to the town, but if it weren’t maintained, it would be a jungle.”

The roundabout gardeners meet about a half-dozen times a year for work parties that last 60–90 minutes each. “Many hands make light work and doing it as a group, giving back to our town, gives us a sense of pride and fulfillment,” Jones

Gathered during a work party at the Granby roundabout garden are, from left, Sally Jones, Harry Jones, Andy Badeau, Kristi Chmielinski and Amanda Lukingbeal. Courtesy photo

adds. With plenty of planting having been accomplished, the occasional addition adds color to a season, and most of the work now involves weeding, deadheading and spreading mulch.

This year, at Sally’s suggestion, the Joneses brought seedlings from the cleomes in their own garden down to the roundabout. The tall pink and white flowers will reseed themselves each year, adding to the roundabout garden’s beauty. “The circle has to be splashy with lots of color because people just drive by, and we want them to notice it.

It’s a nice welcome to Granby,” Sally says.

“The crew of volunteers that we have are all good workers,” Jones adds. “Despite all their life demands, they do this.

We could always use a few more volunteers who would like to join our garden parties. Some volunteers have become too busy with jobs and families, and my hope is to recruit new volunteers to help carry the mantle. We have people who grew up in Granby but have moved to nearby towns. I would like to get more Granby people involved.”

As for Severance, he couldn’t be more pleased with the effort. “I hope Harry and Sally and all the volunteers know how much we appreciate what they have accomplished there,” he says. “It is a beautiful welcome to Granby.”

Anyone who would like to join this enthusiastic team may contact Harry Jones at hrj1946@cox.net or text him at 413-237-1253.

Page 14

The Granby Drummer

In Town Focus Woman’s Breakfast

The next Granby Women’s Breakfast will be Wednesday, Nov. 6 with guest speaker Wally Banzhaf who will present a program entitled Tales and History of the Old Newgate Prison and Copper Mine. A delicious hot breakfast will be served at 8:30 a.m. and the program starts at 9 a.m. in the senior center community room. Advance reservations are required. Call the senior center at 860-844-5350 to reserve your spot.

Camera Club

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

The program will be sharing photographs of Painting with Light and scavenger hunt words. Bring your photos on a memory stick and please print some for our display at the Senior Center.

Granby Camera Club has a Facebook page for those that enjoy photography.

Please check it out.

Scavenger hunt words: painting with light, farm and favorite.

Men’s Breakfast

The Granby Men’s Breakfast group will meet on Friday, Nov. 8, welcoming Granby Town Manager Mike Walsh as the guest speaker. Breakfast will be served at 8:30 a.m., although everyone is invited to come early for coffee and a chat. The program will start at 9 a.m.

The cost remains $5.

Please register your attendance by calling the Granby Senior Center, 860844-5352.

SBHS News

The Salmon Brook Historical Society is located at 208 Salmon Brook Street.

The research library located in the Preservation Barn is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon or by appointment by calling 860-653-9713.

The research fee is $25 per hour.

Museum Store merchandise includes books, maps, mugs, t-shirts, notecards, jigsaw puzzle and many more Granby items. The store, located in the Enders House, is open Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Purchases on Tuesday can be made at the Preservation Barn during research library hours. Items for sale can also be viewed at salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com Historic Holiday Photo Day: Saturday, Nov. 9, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. The Wilcox House, located at 143 Simsbury Road, will be open for holiday photo sessions.

Both the Griffin Sleigh and EB Goddard Wagon will be decorated and available for your photo shoot with the rolling hills of West Granby in the background.

Bring your digital camera or use your cell phone to capture this special moment. No appointment required, first come, first served. The fee for each photo session is $25. Rain date is Nov. 10.

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

Announcements may not exceed 120 words.

Submit to editor@granbydrummer.org

November 2024

Granby Artists’ holiday gift show The Granby Artists Association (GAA) will host its annual holiday gift show at Pilgrim Covenant Church, 605 Salmon Brook Street, for one day only—Saturday, Dec. 7. Shop for original works of art created by your favorite local artists. Bring a friend and discover the talents of your neighbors.

New and long-time members of the GAA will be participating in this year’s gift show. Mark your calendar to visit these talented Granby artists: • Annukka Ritalahti and Mark Gottlieb, will have fused glass mini plates and sun-catchers, stained glass sun-catchers, glass/gem-stone jewelry and blown glass vases, cups, bowls, ornaments and paperweights.

• Calligrapher Debby Reelitz will have a new selection of laser and hand engraved ornaments and gifts. Complete your collection of mini mobiles and keep them in a beautiful storage box created by Pat Faust. She will also be engraving on-site. Bring that wine bottle you want to give to a friend or client, let her engrave a short message on it • Kathy Ungerleider creates seashell/ glass resin artwork, decoupage oyster shell trinket dishes and a variety of unique gifts. She has several new designs and products, including jewelry boxes and decorative mirrors.

• Carolyn Dittes will have a table of her functional stoneware pottery pieces, including sponge holders, spoon rests, mugs, bowls, vases, utensil holders and more.

• Jane Furca will have decorative and useful pottery items including bowls, mugs, vases and pots in an array of colorful glazes.

• Avis Cherichetti, Linda Yurasevecz and Tracy Marlor will have shelves and tables full of original ceramic creations both useful and decorative for that perfect holiday gift, including ornaments, platters, mugs, lamps, raku pieces, votives and more.

Display from previous year’s show. Photo courtesy of Granby Artists Association

• Beth McIntyre, a local photographer, experiments with photographic methods and techniques to create images that are inspired by the natural world. She will be displaying framed wall art printed on various surfaces, which include canvas, metal and archival paper. Her most recent work is a series titled Altered Reality.

• Michael Bentley’s photographic work covers a range of subjects, generally aiming to capture light, color and shape. His most recent project finds painterly detail in the countryside in and around Granby. He will be presenting a range of his photographic work, including framed and matted photographic prints and a variety of cards.

• Matthew Mikalonis, a printmaker and paper maker with an interest in folk art, will have a variety of whimsical hand carved block prints, hand pulled paper art and watercolor illustrations.

• Sue Canavan will have paper flowers and foliage for sale by the stem as well as other paper creations like mushrooms and holiday décor.

• Laura Eden will have a large assortment of notecards and prints as well as a selection from her 12 years of iconic hand painted ornaments. She will also have a sampling of new small originals inspired from her recent trip to the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

• Sally Markey will have sock animals, painted wood items, new decoupage ornaments with all manner of interesting themes, original watercolors, prints and cards.

The event will include a silent auction, like last year, featuring works donated by GAA member artists with all proceeds benefiting a local charity. Support your local artists and do your holiday shopping with us on Dec. 7. Find us at granbyartists.org and on Facebook. We look forward to seeing you there!

November 2024

The Granby Drummer

Out of Town Connecticut Rose Ball benefits Cystic Fibrosis On Saturday, Nov. 2 the Connecticut Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation will host the Connecticut Rose Ball to raise funds and awareness for cystic fibrosis, a progressive, genetic, multi-organ disease that affects approximately 350 people in Connecticut. The event will take place on Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. at the Hartford Marriott Downtown, 200 Columbus Blvd.

The evening will pay tribute to our 2024 honorees: Corporate Titan Holly McCarthy, Paul Drury Legacy Award

recipients Granby residents Deb and Tim Lenihan, and CF Star Samantha Marino.

The Connecticut Rose Ball is a blacktie optional gala that has raised over $2 million since its inception. The night consists of a sumptuous dinner, open bar, lively auctions, dancing and the music of the Savage Brothers Band.

Please join us in paying tribute to our honorees. To attend, visit events.cff. org/CTRoseBall or call the Connecticut Chapter at 860-632-7300.

“Good Trouble” at the Fern Street Play Festival Known in the neighborhood as the church on Fern Street, the historic Universalist Church of West Hartford has a history of using theatre to build connections across its own progressive congregation and with the local community. To widen the circle of this tradition, the church has invited voices from far and wide for its second juried contest. Enjoy an evening of expertly

Christmas Craft Fair The 41st Annual Christmas Cottage Craft Fair will be held at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 224 Lovely Street in Avon. The event will run Thursday and Friday, Nov. 7 and 8, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 9, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Come for a full showcase of beautiful crafts and fine art for sale by 30 juried local artisans. Free admission. Cash or check accepted, no credit or debit cards.

FV Chorale presents concert Farmington Valley Chorale, under the leadership of Ellen Gilson Voth, presents Pedal Points on Sunday, Nov. 24, 4 p.m. at St. James’s Episcopal Church, 1018 Farmington Avenue in West Hartford.

Haydn’s Great Organ Mass with guest organist Nathaniel Gumbs will be the centerpiece. Guest vocal soloists are Soprano Mary Hubbell, mezzo soprano Meredith Ziegler, tenor Connor Vigeant and bass-baritone Greg Rizzo-Flower. Members of the youth and adult choirs from St. James’s Episcopal Church will also join the chorale.

Ticket prices are $25 for adults and free for students. For more information, visit chorale’s website at farmingtonvalleychorale.org This concert is made possible by a grant from the Marjorie Jolidon Fund at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving.

Four chambers host expo Join the Bradley Regional Chamber with co-host East Windsor, Windsor and Bloomfield chambers (TVCA Chambers) at this table-top event on Thursday, Nov. 14, 5 to 8 p.m. This will take place at Almost Famous Brewing Company, 17 Kripes Rd, East Granby. The chambers have teamed up for an amazing evening of networking, snacks and raffle prizes. Entry to this event is free with a business card. Both members and non-members can sponsor a table for a small fee. Contact Jennifer Affe Jones, Jen@farmingtonvalleyplumbing.com

directed readings that will entertain and provoke “good trouble.”

The Fern Street Play Festival will take place on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 1 and 2, at 7:30 p.m. in the sanctuary of the Universalist Church, 433 Fern St., West Hartford. Suggested admission donation of $20 will go to winning playwrights. Free lot and on-street parking.

For more information, contact FernStreetPlayFestival@gmail.com

Page 15

The History of Myrtle Mills Factory Store On Saturday, Nov. 3, from 1–2:30 p.m. lifelong resident and community leader Tim LeBouthillier will take attendees through the fascinating history of Myrtle Mills Factory Store from its early beginnings and wartime contributions through its post-war retail innovations and eventual closure in the mid-1970s. The lecture takes place in the Elton Tavern Ballroom, Burlington Historical Society, 781 George Washington Turnpike, Burlington, and is sponsored by the Farmington Valley Historic Network.

Through archival photos, advertisements and anecdotes, the presentation will bring to life the story of a knitting mill that helped shape Unionville’s history and left an indelible mark on the American retail landscape. Audience members will also be invited to share their memories.

Light refreshments will be served.

The ballroom is not wheelchair accessible. Fee is $5 payable at the door. For more information, contact Patty Hurlock at pattyhurlock@comcast.net or 860-670-3269.

Artificial Intelligence and the future of medicine Dr. Mike Magee will take you through the forerunners to artificial intelligence in American medicine.

Magee will discuss current uses of A.I. as well as look at where we may be five years in the future. He will present five case studies, giving students the chance to weigh in on the ethics of this fast-advancing medical world. The course will be held Wednesdays, Nov.

6, 13 and 20, 2–3:30 p.m. at the University of Hartford.

Sponsored by Presidents’ College Lifelong Learning at the University of Hartford, details on this and other great mini-courses and lectures are at hartford.edu/pc Email pcollege@hartford. edu with questions or to be added to the mailing list.

Page 16

The Granby Drummer

November 2024

Familiar Faces

By Nicole Muller

WWII veteran Moe Bressard still celebrates life After 95 years of life, Moe Bressard has gathered a boatload of memories, and he is happy to share them with his friends and neighbors in Granby, where he spent 43 of those years.

Born in the small country town of Brookfield, Vt., in 1929 to a family of nine children, five of them boys, Bressard grew up on a 100-acre farm. “We raised milking cows and sold milk and cream, but we also had horses, chickens, pigs and vegetable gardens to tend, along with the cows,” Bressard says.

Bressard and his siblings walked to a one-room schoolhouse two miles away after completing their morning farm chores. More chores awaited them after school, but the ingenious Bressard brothers found time to tap sugar maples and boil it down to syrup in an abandoned sugar house. “We gathered wood in the summer and let it dry out so we could boil sap in winter,” he recalls. “It was hard work, but we enjoyed it and the pocket money we made selling our maple syrup.”

Bressard hitchhiked 10 miles to and from St. Michael’s High School in Montpelier. “I graduated high school in June 1946, and a month later I enlisted in the Air Force. In six months, I was overseas,” he says.

Bressard hitchhiked to Montpelier and took a train to Boston for processing before boarding another train bound for a Texas training center. “I was sent to Scott Field in Illinois, to learn radio code,” he says. “I wanted to attend flight school, but I’m color blind, so I couldn’t fly.” From there, on a week’s leave before deployment, Bressard returned home to visit his parents.

“I was only there two days because I had to hop a train and be in California in time to board a Naval ship to Hawaii to pick up supplies and more troops before heading to Guam,” Bressard says.

“On board ship, we were cautioned to

be careful because Japanese troops were hiding on the island.”

Trained in radio and teletype communications, Bressard joined a team that guided U.S. military traffic from the Philippines to Iwo Jima to Hawaii and provided weather reports to ensure their safe travel.

“After two years in Guam, I was sent to Otis AFB [now Air National Guard] on Cape Cod to work in air traffic control until I was discharged in July 1949.

I was 20 years old.”

The Air Force wanted Bressard to reenlist. “I would have, but my father was sick, and my mother was taking care of the younger kids and working in a woolen mill. She needed my help,” he says.

When his siblings were discharged from their military service and life on the farm had steadied, Bressard joined an older brother in Hartford. “I had a chance to work at Underwood Typewriter, and after a while I became the head engineer for American Custom Cam. I worked there for 17 years, and when they were bought out, I started my own business, National Tool and Cam in New Britain,” he says.

During this time, Bressard married and built a home on West Granby Road where he and his wife raised their three children. “When I joined, the American Legion used the cellar of the old Town Hall for their meetings. There were 10– 15 legionnaires, almost all of them old World War I guys,” he says. Over time, members were able to raise enough money to purchase the old schoolhouse on North Granby Road, where Post 182 still meets today. Bressard has served as both treasurer and commander of the post.

“Other veterans are my brothers,” Bressard says. “We have a strong sense of camaraderie. In my family and in the Air Force, I learned to be accurate, careful, a good problem solver and loyal.

World War II veteran Moe Bressard recently joined fellow members of Granby’s American Legion Post 182 at a book signing with American St. Nick author Peter Lion. From left, Bressard, Adjutant Bill DeNio, Lion, Finance Officer Bob King and Sergeant at Arms Bob Groper. Courtesy photo

You honor your brothers and sisters.

Many legionnaires have medical problems, and we do our best to help them in any way we can.”

Three of Bressard’s older brothers and his older sister also served in World War II. All five of them returned home unharmed.

“My oldest brother Bernard was a Marine in the Pacific. My older brother Leo who was in the Navy landed on the shore of Normandy on D-Day, my youngest brother served in the Navy on an aircraft carrier and my sister was a Navy nurse,” Bressard says. “Yes, our parents had a lot to worry about, but we all survived.”

Bressard remains hale and hearty at 95. A recently developed vision problem caused him to have an accident on his way to meet a dozen fellow Legionnaires for their weekly Wednesday morning breakfast at The Gristmill, and his children advised him to stop driving. But friends pick him up bright and early on Wednesday mornings and, undaunted, Bressard gets around just fine by bicycle. “I logged 8,000 miles on my bike this past summer,” he says.

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NOTE: The men and women who fought in World War II and who served in its immediate aftermath are now in their 90s or older. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs statistics reveal that as of 2024, 66,143 of the 16.4-million Americans who served in WWII are still alive. Of these, 1,266 live in Connecticut.

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Swim Your Stress Away

An avid gardener, his property abounds with beautiful blooms, and over the summer he planted 75 tomato plants in the community garden, which he started from seeds in his basement.

And after 95 years, Bressard retains his positive outlook and sense of humor.

Twice widowed, he has a “lady friend” whom he met on a bike ride, and he still tells a story with a twinkle in his eye.

“When I first joined the Legion, Granby was a dry town,” he says. “After work one day, I bought a six-pack of beer before driving home to Granby, and I brought it to the Legion to share with the boys. One guy took one look at that beer and got so mad, he quit. I still feel a little guilty about that!”

Hats off to the Drummer contributors who won awards in 10 separate categories in the 2023 Connecticut Press Club Professional Communications Contest.

This month we recognize David Desiderato who received an Honorable Mention in the Specialty Articles category. To read David’s article, “The Spotted Lantern Fly: one bad bug”, in its entirety, please visit the archives section of our website (granbydrummer. com), click “read online” and select the March 2023 issue. David’s article ap-

pears on page 26. Or go to issuu.com/ granbydrummer/docs/1-9.pdf Congratulations, David!

Founded in the 1970s, the Connecticut Press Club is comprised of men and women who work statewide as writers, editors and other media professionals.

The Press Club’s annual communications contest is open to anyone living or working in Connecticut and covers a wide range of communications categories, with entries judged according to criteria and guidelines specific to each category.

November 2024

The Granby Drummer

Page 17

Embrace coziness with this apple cake

By Nina Jamison

A house wren has captured a tasty insect for itself or perhaps to feed a chick. Photo by Don Shaw

How the loss of insect populations affects bird life

By Shirley Murtha This past month, Oct. 12 to be exact, was World Migratory Bird Day. Although it will be well past peak migration by the time you read this, there surely will still be some stragglers and maybe even some murmuration along the Connecticut River. Established in 2006 by the Smithsonian Institution, this day was developed to bring attention to the fact that many migratory bird populations were declining at an alarming rate.

As with so many other aspects of our world, this decline is due in large part to human activity. Many theories exist about light pollution and warming temperatures, but the emphasis this year by the Smithsonian is the decline of available insect species, one of the most important food sources for birds. Vital for a great majority of birds at all times, insects are critical for migratory birds that binge eat before take-off and on which they depend along their routes.

Human activity has changed our ecosystems dramatically, not just because of buildings and paved roads, but because of a movement away from native plants in favor of manicured lawns and ornamental plantings. Insects are hostspecific and usually feed on just one or a few plant species as they have evolved over a long period of time. Luckily, there has been a recent push to do away with non-native ornamentals and allow or plant native species to grow. Unfortunately, this effort is not keeping up with the decline in bird populations and we need to do a better job.

Despite the colorful butterflies we see during the day, it is a fact that most insects are active at night, and are unfortunately attracted to our artificial lights, where there is usually no food. This unsuccessful flight can lead to exhaustion and death. We can counteract this by using yellow LED lights. For some reason, insects are not attracted nearly as much to them, saving them from needlessly expending energy.

Homeowners with trees are conditioned to rake up all those leaves that come down in the fall and dispose of them. Leaf litter, however, is a valuable habitat for insects to overwinter, and in some cases, it is necessary for insects with complete metamorphosis to complete their life cycles. (Complete metamorphosis is the type with four stages: egg, larva [caterpillars], pupa [chrysalis and cocoon] and adult.) If a homeowner leaves a bit of the lawn area un-raked, it will help.

Hopefully it goes without saying that the use of herbicides and pesticides is totally detrimental to the health of insects and has its effects far up the food chain. Most of these chemicals will kill insects directly and they may change the chemistry of the host plants so that insects can’t eat them. If you plant native species, and maybe let a bit of your lawn area grow wild, you won’t need these chemicals.

Making some or all of these concessions can help to keep our world populated with the variety of birds we still have and maybe allow some dwindling species to make a come-back. It’s certainly worth a try.

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Colors are muted and a chill wind announces the imminent return of winter. Yet there is beauty in November as the lay of the land opens up, and features you may have passed by in summer are now revealed. Notice the upward curve of the hillside, the gray boulders that were strewn across the field by the retreat of glacial ice, and the actual shape of the trees with their bare limbs exposed. It’s a time for inner reflection as the days grow shorter, a time to embrace hygge, the Swedish word for “coziness.” It puts one in the proper mindset for creating a warm environment for Thanksgiving.

Take out that 9-inch spring form pan you’ve forgotten in the back of the cupboard and put it to good use making this French apple cake. Although not a traditional Thanksgiving dessert, this is a time-tested, seasonally appropriate favorite.

Ingredients 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt 1 stick unsalted butter 2/3 cup granulated sugar, plus more for top of cake 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla 3 Tablespoons dark rum or cognac 2 baking apples such as honey crisp, peeled, and cut into ½ inch cubes (approx. 4 cups)

French apple cake, photo by Nina Jamison

Directions Preheat oven 350°F. Grease a 9-inch spring form pan.

In a small bowl whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt.

Use a hand-held electric beater to cream the butter and sugar until fluffy and light. Add eggs one at a time and beat in well. Beat in the vanilla and rum or cognac. Add flour mixture and beat on low until just combined.

Fold in the apples. Scrape into the prepared pan and top with 1 Tablespoon sugar.

Bake for about 40 minutes on the middle rack of the oven, until the cake is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Let cool a bit before removing the sides of the pan.

Welcome to our new store in Granby Ct. The same great team, the same great jewelry.

Whether you need a repair, custom piece, Wh browsing or buying something special.

We will help you with all your jewelry needs now or in the future.

Call us or just stop by.

An SBG custom pendant of vibrant multicolor Imperial Ammolite. With accents of brilliant red and green.

Set in buttery 14kt yellow gold.

JEWELER

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‘Tis the season for thanks and giving In farming, and especially in New England, October is the time of year for celebration, and the Friends of Holcomb Farm are celebrating the harvest of 2024 big time and giving thanks for the generosity of our neighbors and the hard work of our farm crew. After last year’s excessive rains cut the harvest short, we were thrilled to dig into the ground and find the winter veggies— sweet potatoes, onions, carrots, turnips, potatoes and more—flourishing. As a result, we were able to offer our Winter CSA Share program, which quickly sold out.

Where to buy winter veggies Don’t despair if you missed out: we will be open for business at the Farm Store with all these goodies, plus fresh greens from the greenhouses, just in time to support your Thanksgiving feast. Stop by Friday, Saturday and Tuesday, Nov. 22, 23 and 26, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Or join us and other local producers at the Lost Acres Vineyard Thanksgiving Farmers’ market on Monday, Nov. 25 from 1 to 7 p.m.

Thank you, Maletz family!

For the past several years, we have augmented our Holcomb Farm-grown bounty with fruit (thank-you, Thrall Farms) to enhance our Fresh Access distributions. This year, the bounty became an apple bonanza thanks to another neighbor. In late September, Skip and Shelly Maletz of East Hartland generously opened their private apple orchard and donated the entire harvest to Fresh Access. Nine Fresh Access volunteers worked with Skip and Shelly to pick clean their beautiful trees and remove all drops from the ground. Between Sept. 23 and 24 more than 2,200 pounds of apples were harvested, and all 50 trees were prepared for winter.

The donated fruit will be distributed by the seven Fresh Access Community Partners to their many clients and members. Thanks to Skip and Shelly Maletz for their generosity, and to our wonderful volunteers for their tireless work: Lori and Fran Armentano, Donna Snyder, Kathy Haury, Patty Sansone, Ann Wilhelm, JoAnn Smith, Lynn Barragan and Laura Midura.

Join in the harvest of winter veggies at Lost Acres Vineyard on Nov. 25, or the Holcomb Farm store Nov. 22, 23 and 26.

Photo by Tom Spatcher

Our sweet potatoes seemed to appreciate the weather this summer!

Photo by Hanna Malzenski

November 2024

We invite you to tea Worms. Magical creatures that seem so unassuming but create so much life.

This month Cat Kadrle wanted to learn more about the new worm tea composter. There’s no better person at Holcomb Farm to ask than soil guru Emma Hoyt.

Hoyt fills many roles at Holcomb Farm.

Many of you know her as a friendly and knowledgeable crew member and store attendant. Hoyt also serves as our wholesale manager, as well as a studied ecologist focusing on the longterm health of the land. We had many questions for Hoyt about a recent acquisition, the compost tea maker. Compost tea is an infusion of worm castings and water, which imbues the soil with incredible nutrients.

CK: Tell us about the new compost tea machine.

EH: It’s a 25-gallon compost tea brewer made from a 30-gallon garbage can. It was very cheap and easy to make and works really well! We were brewing five gallons at a time in a bucket, so now we can make much bigger batches at a time and use it on many more crops.

CK: What inspired you to build it?

EH: I learned about compost tea/ vermicast tea from a few workshops. I learned that it can help combat fungal and bacterial diseases, which we are seeing more and more of as the climate here gets wetter and hotter. This tea is full of living soil organisms: bacteria, fungi, nematodes, amoebas, mites and other creatures that can out-compete diseases that try to infest a plant. It can also improve the health of the plants by adding more of these creatures to the soil where they break down organic matter into usable nutrients for the plants and consume detrimental organisms. Newer scientific studies are showing that plants need to form relationships with various soil organisms in order to thrive.

CK: What is it about a worm casting that is superior for the purposes of fertilization?

EH: Worm castings, since they come from soil-dwelling creatures, contain soil-dwelling organisms. They, like other manures, contain fertilizing nutrients as well, but their biological profile

makes them more useful for our specific purpose. And because we brew the tea, during which we feed and multiply the organisms, we can get a lot of tea from a small amount of castings, making the whole process very cost effective. For the home gardener, keeping a worm bin is much less work and money than keeping livestock.

CK: How would you scale this down for a home gardener/farmer?

EH: A home gardener could easily keep worms and reap the benefits. You can buy pre-made worm bins or find instructions to make your own. You have to buy the worms; the traditional worms for worm bins are not native and can’t survive here. Whenever you harvest your castings, you can either put them directly into the soil (mimicking nature and adding to what the native worms are already doing) or you can amplify the organisms by brewing tea and watering it or spraying it on the plants. Home brewing is very easy and cheap, and instructions can easily be found on the internet.

CK: What would be your next item on a wish list for soil health?

EH: A better sprayer to deliver the tea. Our current tractor-run sprayer is not great for a living spray; there is too much pressure and too many hose bends.

CK: What drew you to study ecology?

EH: I majored in EEEB (evolution, ecology and environmental biology). I have always been interested in nature and the relationships between all living things, charismatic or not. Soil science is one specific piece of ecology and understandably very important for a farmer to understand. At Holcomb Farm our approach is to focus on the health of the soil and the plants as a means to defend against diseases and pests, and therefore we need to understand what’s happening in our soil.

Thank you to Emma Hoyt for her time and talents growing our food and nurturing our soil. Without dedicated, passionate farmers like Emma, Granby would not be the community it is today.

The Skip and Shelly Maletz orchard in East Hartland looks pristine after yielding 2,200 pounds of apples for Fresh Access.

Photo by Fran Armentano

THANK YOU GRANBY! We bid fond farewell to farmers Kim Gayle, Danovan Robinson and McKeon Thomas, who are returning to their families in Jamaica.

We hope they will be back next year. Photo by Melody Smith

November 2024

The Granby Drummer

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Retired forester returns to tree trail Sometimes, a single individual helps make something big happen. Recently such an individual visited the Holcomb Tree Trail arboretum as a guest of the Friends of Holcomb Farm. The visitor was retired City of Hartford forester John Kehoe. Here is how he helped bring about the Tree Trail.

In 2015, a small group of long-time locals (Peggy Lareau, Barry Avery and Eric Lukingbeal) thought that an arboretum at Holcomb Farm would make a lot of sense. None were foresters, or arborists. None had any training or relevant education. They had visited arboretums in Connecticut, Massachusetts, North Carolina and California and talked to the folks in charge. They shared their idea with the Friends of Holcomb Farm and began discussions with the Granby Board of Selectmen and Town Manager.

But their idea needed a push.

The group turned to Ed Richardson of Glastonbury, who had been active for decades with the Connecticut Forest and Park Association. Richardson led tree walks all over the state and was one of the chief contributors to the book, Connecticut’s Notable Trees. The group described their hopes and their concerns about their lack of experience and Richardson suggested they get in touch with John Kehoe.

Kehoe listened to the group’s ideas and told them he wanted to look at the site before giving advice. He met the group at the farm, and they walked the roughly 40 acres of meadows. Kehoe encouraged the group to persist even though they lacked formal training or qualifications. He urged them to keep going and to plan for sustainability

over the long term. He told them he liked what he saw, and suggested they ask a UConn landscape professor, John Alexopoulos, if he would bring one of his landscape classes to study the site.

When the group approached the professor with Kehoe’s suggestion, he agreed to have his class study the site and assess its potential to host an arboretum. The class and the professor spent several days walking the site, researching and taking soil samples. They produced a 75-page document, oversized and illustrated, that discussed the site’s suitability for arboretum purposes.

With that report in hand, the group was able to convince the selectmen to let them start planting trees. In October 2018, the first 16 bare root trees were planted. The tallest was six feet tall; some of these trees are now more than 20 feet tall. Planting has continued every year since, and there are now more than 100 trees. All are labeled, mulched and protected against buck rub. Volunteers mow the several miles of paths and water the trees. The arboretum was recently certified as a Level 1 Arboretum

by ArbNet, an international group run

by Morton Arboretum in Illinois.

A few weeks ago, Kehoe returned to the meadows, walked the trails, and gave the tree trail volunteers (Walter Ford, Jack and Peggy Lareau, Shirley Murtha, Barry Avery, Laura Midura and Eric Lukingbeal) advice about the young trees and about what to plant in the coming years. He talked about the changing climate and its impact on particular species. Kehoe had one recommendation: plant more oaks.

Celebrate the Valley brings communities together

Photos courtesy of the Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce

Pausing on the Holcomb Farm Tree Trail are, from left, John Kehoe and Tree Trail members Walter Ford, Eric Lukingbeal, Jack Lareau, Laura Midura, Peggy Lareau and Barry Avery.

Photo by Tree Trail member Shirley Murtha

Looking back, Kehoe’s involvement was essential to the arboretum’s success. The trees will take 50 years to mature, far longer than any of those

who planted them will be around. But their descendants will enjoy them.

Submitted by Friends of Holcomb Farm

Happy Thanksgiving!

A Childhood Memory in Honor of Veterans Day

Whenever I see our flag flying so majestically in the sky, I feel a deep connection to all it stands for. When it is at half-staff, I feel sorrow for all who have lost their lives in service to our country.

When I think back in my memories, I remember the day in kindergarten when our teacher, Miss Willard, played The Star-Spangled Banner on the piano and told us that when we heard that music, we should always stand up in respect for all who have helped make our country free.

One day a few months later, Miss Willard played the song again. I remembered her words about standing up. I looked around me—no one was standing. Did I have the courage to stand all by myself? With shaking knees, I stood up. Our teacher continued playing. She told the class she was proud of me for remembering to show respect when that music was played. The next time she played it, everyone stood up without being told.

When I see the flag today and hear The Star-Spangled Banner, I’m taken back to those childhood days, and the memory of those heroes who have died and all who have served for the freedom I know today. May God bless all those who have heroically served.

—Bernadette R. Gentry

From Sept. 19 to 21, Celebrate the Valley weekend transformed the local area into a vibrant hub of community spirit and entertainment. Featuring a wide array of local businesses, crafters, restaurants and musicians, the event offered something for everyone.

Families enjoyed a lively carnival complete with rides, games and inflatable bounce houses catering to the younger crowd. The business expo showcased 27 local businesses and 10 non-profits, 19 crafters shared their talents, while food lovers delighted in offerings from nine restaurants and food trucks. Adults also enjoyed the beer and wine garden, sponsored by Thomas Hooker Brewery.

On Saturday, live music from five local bands provided a perfect soundtrack to the festivities, while car enthusiasts were treated to a car show that added to the weekend’s excitement.

The celebration culminated in a breathtaking fireworks display, leaving

Fall fire safety advice

By Brian Long, Fire Marshal

attendees with lasting memories. The success of Celebrate the Valley was made possible through the dedication of local sponsors, volunteers and participants. The Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce, which organized, sponsored and underwrote the event, extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to this wonderful community event.

On Nov. 3 daylight savings time will end, and we will set our clocks back one hour. During this time of year, it is a good reminder to replace the batteries in our smoke alarms—change your clock / change your batteries.

It is also a good time to check the age of your smoke alarms. The life expectancy of smoke alarms is 10 years. If you are unsure as to the age of your smoke alarms, it would be a good idea to replace the unit. There should be a smoke alarm in every bedroom, in the hall outside of the sleeping areas and on every level of the home. The Granby Fire Marshal’s Office offers free inspection of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for one- and two-family homes in town.

Help us keep you and your family safe.

Contact us today at 860-844-5321 or firemarshal@granby-ct.gov

Fall is also a good time to prepare for the winter season. Have your chimneys inspected and cleaned. Never store LP gas grill propane tanks inside your home or garage. Do not use turkey fryers on decks or close to buildings or vehicles. Check for overloaded extension cords—usage should not exceed the recommended wattage. Never use space heaters with extension cords. All space heaters should be placed at least three feet from beds, curtains or anything flammable. Be sure your house can be found by emergency teams by ensuring your house address numbers can easily be seen from the street. Practice a fire escape plan with your family.

Identify two exits from every room, create a meeting place and instruct children on what to do in an emergency.

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November 2024

The Granby Drummer

The Goats of Granby Part three of three: Goats as pets

By Faith Tyldsley

In September, the first article in this series stated, “Some consider the goat to be ‘the new dog.’ A goat’s potential to be a delightful pet will be explored later.” Be assured that no competition between goats and dogs is suggested or implied: only an opening of one’s mind to a variation, a novel outlook on what can be a “pet.”

Only two months remain until December. Imagine how the inclusion of pet goats in Santa hats will convey instant panache to your family’s holiday photo this year.

Choosing your goats: Pygmy and Nigerian dwarf These two miniature breeds of goat are recommended as best choices for adorable pets with friendly personalities. Due to their smaller size, they are less expensive to keep and take up less space than a standard dairy goat. Pygmies have been bred to be short and stocky and are a meat-producing breed.

If selling goats for meat is a goal, this breed is a good choice. Nigerians, on the other hand, have a more refined overall body appearance and are considered a dairy goat. (Note: The Town of Granby’s protocols for keeping goats on your property are found in Section 8.15 of the zoning regulations.)

Happy New Year parties, goat style

“We just love our animals.” Bill and Violet; Pat and Lilac; Hershey in background.

Photo by Faith Tyldsley

As Bill explains, “This is for fun— our animals are just pets; there is no commercial enterprise. We just love our animals.” Pat quickly points out that there is limited income; eggs from resident Rhode Island reds, white leghorns, black copper Marans and the geese are on offer in a self-service cart at the top of the drive.

Bill and Pat chose Nigerian dwarfs as their preferred breed and decided to limit their herd to females, buying them as doelings (three months old). In August 2020, they drove to Craftsbury, Vt., to pick up the first two, named Parsley and Sage. “Just two” was the initial idea. Then “maybe two more”

Pat and Bill Fiocchetta with Whiskey.

Photo by Faith Tyldsley

Pat and Bill Fiocchetta’s Hobby Farm Misty Meadow Farm, Pat and Bill Fiocchetta’s hobby farm extraordinaire, sits close by the Dewey-Granby Bill with Mama’s triplets on day of their Oak on Day Street. This 25-acre parabirth, January 2021. dise is surely a model of its kind. White Photo by Pat Fiocchetta fences, red barn and silver silo. Manicured lawns giving way to fields and crept into passing conversations. And pond and then to forest turning yellow now there are 13 Nigerian dwarfs. and bronze on a brisk sunny October Discovered through contact with enmorning. A view of the Connecticut thusiastic “goat groups” on Facebook, countryside that brought unexpected they came from throughout the Northmoisture to the eye and a east. catch in the throat.

Dr. Christopher Weber, The Fiocchettas had deThe Fiocchettas have “goat whisperer” veterinarian cided not to breed their fashioned their patch at Salmon Brook Veterinary goats or to milk them. of Granby into a hobby Hospital, states, “We see any- It was a surprise, then, farm, a property defined where from 400–500 goats in when one new doeling as a small-scale farm of our practice. They come from (now known as Mama) less than 50 acres that all over—from Otis, Mass. to was observed to be deis primarily for pleasure Stafford Springs and Deep veloping an udder and rather than for commer- River.”

Common concerns range filling out into a motherly cial use. Misty Meadow from diet to parasitism to re- roundness. Consultation is home to seven sleek production issues. Weber ob- with previous owners American buff geese, serves that, “Our clients are shed light: prior to adop13 huggable Nigerian usually well educated about tion, this four-month-old dwarf goats, 40 bustling caring for goats and know had apparently (and unhens and a rooster named when to ask for help,” noting known to the previous Rocky, 30 cacophonous that, “Most of our goat owners owners) been courted by Guinea fowl and one sub- are in 4-H or were in 4-H.” a precocious five-monthstantial Irish wolfhound old buckling during a named Whiskey.

Goats celebrate the new year by eating discarded Christmas trees. When Nancy Butler of Lyric Hill Farm asks for trees for her goats on the farm’s Facebook Page, she stipulates that they be “Only locally cut; no pesticides or sprays please.”

Dorothy Hayes of Sweet Pea Cheese explains that only the needles and bark are eaten. The needles fill in for greens at just the right time of year—during December and January when no fresh plants are available.

Photo by Nancy Butler

Page 21 Raising Goats for Dummies,

by Cheryl K. Smith (2021) This is an indispensable resource for those who want to know everything.

A gently used copy of Raising Goats for Dummies was a serendipitous find at the Granby libraries’ book sale this past June. The opening chapter, Discovering the Joys of Raising Goats, leads into Getting Your Goats: Choosing, Buying, and Bringing Goats Home. Getting your Property Ready for a Goat covers fencing, shelter types, removal of poisonous plants, and using guardian animals for security.

15-minute breakout of males into female territory. Mama gave birth to triplets.

Misty Meadow Goats (l. to r.) Willow, Mama, Hershey, Lilac, Juniper (back), Truffles (front). Photo by Faith Tyldsley

The Soul of a Goat Somewhere around 11,000 years ago goats were becoming domesticated in the Middle East. Here we are in 2024, fortunate to have this amazing animal thriving in our town. And how particularly favored we are to have Sweet Pea Cheese goat dairy minutes away where one can purchase goat milk, cheese and yogurt daily, and then walk outside and back around the corner of the store to have a personal encounter with the very goats who make such treats possible.

Look closely into the rectangular pupils of one of these goat’s eyes. Imagine you can see into the psyche of all goats.

Early cultures saw strength, virility and fertility. Determination and resilience are also attributed to this animal that can survive on limited food and water in harsh environments. Joyful agility and curiosity are on show whenever goats climb on rock piles and roofs and nibble on you and your shirt. Celebrate the soul of the goat as you read the following.

Benediction: The Prayer of the Goat from Prayers from the Ark (1969) by Carmen Bernos de Gasztold, translated

by Rumer Godden.

Lord, Let me live as I will!

I need a little wild freedom, a little giddiness of heart, the strange taste of unknown flowers.

For whom else are Your mountains?

Your snow wind? These springs?

The sheep do not understand.

They graze and graze, all of them, and always in the same direction, and then eternally, chew the cud of their insipid routine.

But I — I love to bound to the heart of all Your marvels, leap your chasms, and, my mouth stuffed with intoxicating grasses, quiver with an adventurer’s delight on the summit of the world!

Amen.

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November 2024

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The Granby Drummer

Parks & Recreation Please visit GranbyRec.com for details and to register for all the programs presented by the Parks and Rec department.

Comedy Night: Saturday, Nov. 16, at Holcomb Farm. Doors open at 7 p.m. and show begins at 8 p.m. This popular event is back—and better than ever! $50pp.

Ski Sundown Program: Registration is open for this popular program for kids in grades 3-12. Your skier will be bussed from either the Granby Memorial Middle School (students in grades 6-12) or Wells Road School (students in grades 3-5) for five weeks (Fridays, Jan. 3–31) of snowy fun!

Letters from Santa Please check the website for details.

Paint Night with Paint Craze: Thursday, Dec. 5, 7–9 p.m. at the Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. Join your Park and Rec staff along with artist MaryBeth Read from Paint Craze for a fun evening of creating and socializing. No artistic skill required! Everything you need will be supplied including a 11” x 14” canvas. Feel free to bring food and beverages to enjoy while you paint. $40pp

Breakfast with Santa! Sunday, Dec. 15. Choose between three seatings: 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.

Registration will be open soon—follow us on Instagram @ GranbyRec and Facebook @GranbyRecreation for more details.

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November 2024

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

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

Must have a current senior center membership to participate in programs.

The senior center is closed Nov. 11 for Veterans Day and Nov. 28 and 29 for Thanksgiving recess.

SPECIAL EVENT Thanksgiving Luncheon: Thursday, Nov. 14, noon. Enjoy a home cooked Thanksgiving meal with all the fixings, and light entertainment by the fabulous Mass-Conn Duo. Sorry, but no guarantee that the food offered will be free from ingredients that may affect those with food allergies. Senior Center members only. $5.

LIFELONG LEARNING A Right to Vote, the story of how America recognized its women as voters: Friday, Nov. 1 at 10 a.m. Can you imagine America without the opportunity for women to vote? It’s barely been 100 years since that opportunity was guaranteed by the 19th amendment. It took political engagements that gave way to open resistance, pickets at the White House and outright physical skirmishes along parade routes to change minds. The 19th amendment squeaked by to approval on the last day, and the last few hours of the amendment’s approval window.

Learn about the struggles and successes that lead to women gaining the right to vote. Free.

Visual Moments in Iceland, A Winter Sequel: Rescheduled to Friday, Nov. 8, 1:30 p.m. As a follow-up to a previous program on the Essence of Place, Culture, and the Natural World, this program presents a return to the land of fire and ice. Focusing on the winter experience, specific strategies and techniques are revealed involving the photo shoot process, along with stories and impressions. Specifics regarding travel, hiking, clothing and other aspects are also shared. Ultimately, this presentation aims to spark the creative spirit, provide practical information and offer inspiring insights.

Free.

Scams Targeting Seniors: Monday, Nov. 18 at 10 a.m. Our friends from Windsor Federal Bank will be here to discuss scams targeting seniors. Topics include: Why seniors are targeted, red flags, common scams, what to do if you encounter a scammer. Free.

TRIPS Collette Travel Colorado Rockies Presentation: Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 10 a.m. We have partnered with the Collette Group Travel to offer the Colorado Rockies trip, July 25 to Aug. 2, 2025. Learn all about what to expect from Tracy, a Collette representative. Free presentation.

Collette Travel Explore Switzerland, Austria and Bavaria: Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 11

a.m. We have partnered with the Collette Group Travel to offer the Explore Switzerland, Austria and Bavaria trip, Sept. 6–15, 2025. Learn all about what to expect from Tracy, a Collette representative. Free presentation.

New England Christmas Festival: Friday, Nov. 8, departs center at 8:30 a.m. Hosted at Mohegan Sun, the festival is an eagerly anticipated annual event that has kicked off the holiday season for 38 years. Offering everything a holiday shopper could desire under one magnificent roof, the Christmas festival makes preparing for the holidays a breeze by bringing together 350+ art, craft and specialty food American artisans from all over the country that come to display and sell their unique products, all made by hand. Cost: $20, includes fee for admission.

ONGOING PROGRAMS CRT Hot Lunch: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12–1 p.m. Community Café offers a healthy, low-cost lunch for seniors 60+ and the opportunity to join with others. Monthly menus are available. All participants are required to complete a one-time informational survey. A donation of $3 per meal is suggested to help cover costs, however no one is denied a meal if unable to pay.

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

Cribbage: Fridays, 3–5 p.m. and Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Experienced players will assist with refreshing your game play. Free.

Set Back: Tuesdays, 1–3:30 p.m. Free.

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

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

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

Free.

ASK THE…SERIES Ask the Attorney: Wednesday, Nov. 6, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. By appointment. Specializing in Elder Law. Please call to set up an appointment for a free half-hour consultation.

Ask the Realtor: Wednesday, Nov. 13, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. By appointment. Lifelong resident of Granby Judy Guarco has worked for 20+ years representing both buyers and sellers in Connection and Massachusetts. Her goal is always to be a trusted advisor to help navigate the ever-changing world of home ownership with good advice, solid market knowledge, customer service and attention to detail. Please call to set up an appointment for a free half-hour consultation.

Ask the Financial Advisor: Wednesday, Nov. 27, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. By appointment. A new addition to the center, meet with Financial Advisor Matthew Sondrini from The O’Brien Group. Please call to set up an appointment for a free half-hour consultation.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS Chair Massage: Tuesdays, Nov. 5 and 19, 10 a.m.–12:45 p.m. By appointment. Bev offers 15- minute chair massages for $10.

Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar Clinic: Thursdays, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. No appointment needed. Courtesy of the Farmington Valley Visiting Nurses Association. Held in the Senior Center Community Room.

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

Foot Care by Sarah: Wednesday, Nov. 13.

By appointment. Mobile Manicures will be here on the second Wednesday of every month for 30-minute foot care appointments. Cost: $35.

Tibetan Singing Bowls with Brian: Friday, Nov. 16 at 2 p.m. Relax and listen to the beautiful sounds of Tibetan Singing Bowls. Soothing sounds help to reduce stress and to create a deep sense of peace and well-being. This ancient practice has been handed down from generation to generation by the Tibetan Buddhist monks. Participants are welcome to bring a yoga mat or can sit in a chair. Cost: $5.

Eating Healthy for the Holidays: Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 2 p.m. The holidays are often full of family, friends, great memories and delicious food. Join Amy Woodman, registered dietician from Farmington Valley Nutrition and Wellness, to learn how you can make healthier choices around the holiday season. Free.

EXERCISE PROGRAMS See current Center Life newsletter for session dates and costs for all programs.

Gentle Movement: Mondays, 11:15 a.m.

This class will gently increase your strength, help your ability to balance, and provide stretching to maintain and increase mobility. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

Total Body Tone: Mondays, 12:45–1:45 p.m. Class will consist of circuit style strength training/cardio using a variety of equipment like bands, weights, and steppers, etc. Each class will be different to keep our muscles guessing, keep it interesting and keep it fun! Class will include chair and standing exercises. Instructor, Michelle Rancourt.

Chair Yoga: Tuesdays, 2:30 p.m. Enhanced breathing, seated and standing classic yoga poses, plus balance training and core strengthening. Guided meditation finishes the class in a calm and relaxing manner. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

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

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

His expertise will have you learning the steps in no time and having a blast too! This class is for beginners to advanced dancers.

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

All About Balance: Thursdays, 2:45 p.m.

This class focuses on strength for balance efficiency, such as squats, handheld weight maneuvers and walking drills, as well as core conditioning. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

Adult Fencing: Fridays, 11 a.m. Olympic Fencing is open for everyone, regardless of physical abilities. Fencing is an elegant and complex sport that makes your brain think fast and clearly, keeping it healthy and alert, and maintaining your motor skills in top condition throughout your life. Classes are taught by Coach Marc, a fencing master with 45 years of experience.

Granby’s Food Bank needs your help ALL YEAR LONG.

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VOTER INFORMATION One Polling Site

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 in the community gym in Granby Memorial High School. Drivers should access the community gym using the high school’s entrance off North Granby Road, Route 189, and leave the polls from Salmon Brook Street, Routes 10/202. See also p. 10 for Registrars’ article.

Voter ID

To check in quickly at the polls, please bring an ID, photo ID if possible. Should you not have an ID on election day but have previously proven your identity, either at the time of your registration or when voting previously, you will need to spend a few minutes at the Moderator table. If you are a brand-new voter, and your confirmation letter noted that you have not proven your identity, you must bring an ID to vote on Election Day, preferably a photo ID. Provisional ballots are not available for Municipal Elections.

State of Connecticut Ballot Question

“Shall the Constitution of the State be amended to permit the General Assembly to allow each voter to vote by absentee ballot?” You will be asked to vote yes or no.

In Memory of . . .

Seaton, Craig, 74, formerly of Granby, husband of Holly (Barilla) Seaton, July 17 Emigh, Margaret Helen “Peggy”, 87, August 14 McCarthy, Matthew Kennedy, 60, August 17 Domin, Walter D., 76, September 13 Marois, Danielle Marie, 39, wife of Bradford Norman Marois, September 13 Skaret, Steven James, 75, husband of Ellen McGrath Skaret, September 14 O’Leary, Josephine (“Jo”) Mary (O’Toole), wife of Liam O’Leary, September 18 Zaldonis, Eileen (McHale), 67, wife of Tony Zaldonis, October 1

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French onion soup is perfect for fall nights

By Judy Guarco My mom found this recipe some time ago, it is the simplest and easiest onion soup recipe I have ever seen. One of the things I always liked about the recipe is using chicken broth (many recipes call for beef broth). I think it makes it lighter and less salty.

Ingredients 4–5 large onions, thinly sliced 3 Tablespoons butter ¼ teaspoon pepper 1 Tablespoon flour

Submitted photo

4 cups chicken broth 1 ½ cups water 8 slices French bread, toasted ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese Directions In a soup kettle or Dutch oven, sauté the onions in butter until lightly browned. Sprinkle with pepper and flour. Cook and stir for one minute or less.

Add the broth and water, simmer for 30–40 minutes stirring occasionally.

In each bowl, lay one piece of toasted bread with shredded or sliced cheese on top. Ladle the soup on top and serve.

If you prefer you can top the soup with the cheese and bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes.

Makes about 8 servings.

Photo shoot at Wilcox House: A glimpse into history

By Todd Vibert

The Salmon Brook Historical Society invites the community to a special photo shoot on Saturday, Nov. 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (rain date Nov. 10), at the Wilcox House on Simsbury Road in West Granby. Last month, I shared the story of the E. B. Goddard wagon, one of the unique props featured in this shoot. The other will be the charming Griffin Sleigh, similar in style to the sleigh in the photo at right.

This elegant sleigh, adorned with bells and finished in a striking black, features leather seats and long iron runners. Inside, a cozy bearskin awaits to keep its passengers warm during winter rides.

One notable passenger was Fred Griffin, who spent most of his adult life on Hungary Road in Granby but grew up

in Bloomfield. He fondly recounted to his daughter, Martha, how he would lay inside the sleigh, wrapped in the bearskin, gazing up at his grandmother. She, adorned with large earrings, expertly guided the sleigh, pulled by a draft horse, along Tunxis Avenue into East Granby.

There, they would visit friends at the Thompson House and other relatives living on Hungary Road.

At the Griffin residence, the horse would rest in a stall in the barn until it was time to return to Bloomfield. The sleigh, measuring 55 inches in height, 53 inches in length, and approximately three feet in width, was compact yet perfectly suited for its purpose. The journey took about an hour and a half, making visits to family and friends an all-day affair in 1924. The sleigh was primarily used for

Luzerne C. Holcombe (1844–1922), with horse named Bill. Photo courtesy of SBHS

special outings, especially on Sundays when snow blanketed the ground.

This century-old sleigh was generously donated to the Salmon Brook Historical Society by the Griffin family and is currently housed in the Preservation Barn.

We invite you to come and sit in this historic sleigh for a photo opportunity on Nov. 9. Enjoy the picturesque backdrop

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of the barn or the scenic hills of West Granby while creating your own memories.

To learn more about the Griffin Sleigh or Fred Griffin, contact the Salmon Brook Historical Society by calling 860-653-9713, or go online at salmonbrookhistorical.com

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Browse & Borrow COMING SOON! The Granby Public Library will be undergoing some renovation work in the near future. Stay tuned for more information.

Children’s Book Festival: Saturday, Nov. 2, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Wells Road Intermediate School. For all ages. Free.

ADULT PROGRAMS AT GPL Artists Talk: Saturday, Nov. 2, 10:30–11:45 a.m. Don’t miss this fascinating presentation with members of the Granby Painting Study Group and other special artists. Darla DiRusso covers silverpoint techniques, John Walker shares how to create a landscape painting, Pam Jones offers a watercolor and pen and ink demonstration, and Lori Rapuano shares the process of fine art reproductions.

Movie Matinee: Monday, Nov. 18, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Anthony Hopkins stars in the feature film, One Life. The biographical drama is based on the true story of British humanitarian Nicholas Winton who successfully helped 669 Jewish children flee Czechoslovakia in 1938-39, just prior to WWII. Space is limited; register early.

Travel Talk, Going to Extremes: Thursday, Nov. 21, 6:30–7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Nationally known adventure travel journalist for The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times, National Geographic and The Boston Globe, Peter Mandel hunts his stories and photos in the world’s far corners, including Antarctica, India, Egypt, Patagonia, the fjords of Norway, the mountain pathways of Japan and the deserts of Africa.

Register to receive the Zoom program link.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Crafters Café, Paper Dahlias: Thursday, Nov. 14, 6–7:30 p.m. Preserve the colorful brilliance of autumn when you learn to make crepe paper collarette dahlia blooms with Sue Canavan. All materials provided. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

CCS MAKERSPACE PROGRAMS AT FHC CCS Equipment Demonstration and Training: Days and times vary; check library website for most up to date information. Adults and youth ages 10 and up with an adult. Visit the library’s makerspace and learn to use the 3D printer, laser cutter, sewing and embroidery machines, sublimation printer, vinyl cutter, mug and bottle presses, and all manner of digitizing equipment.

Sew Simple, Woven Spiral Fabric Basket: Wednesdays, Nov. 6 and 13, 1:30–3:30 p.m.

Learn to make a decorative and functional fabric basket in the two-session class. All materials and equipment are provided. Sponsored by the Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Knitting In The Round: Wednesdays, Oct. 30, Nov. 6 and 13, 1:30–3 p.m. Learn to use circular needles with a flexible cable to knit a hat. Participants must have some knitting experience and need to attend all three classes.

Yarn and needles provided or bring your own.

Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

GRANBY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM granby-ct.gov/157/Library 860-844-5275 GranbyLibrary@granby-ct.gov Library Hours – Granby Public Library Main Monday - Thursday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Friday - Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Library Hours – F.H. Cossitt Library Branch Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday:1– 6 p.m.

Second and fourth Saturday of the month, (Nov. 9 and 23): 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

The libraries will be closed on Thursday and Friday, Nov. 28 and 29, for Thanksgiving.

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

GPL= Granby Main Branch FHC= Cossitt Branch Exploring Cricut Design Space: Thursday, Nov. 7, 5:30–7 p.m. Unlock the power of Cricut Design Space in this class designed for beginners. The hands-on class will introduce participants to the fundamentals of Cricut’s intuitive design software.

Sublimation Printed Coasters: Saturday, Nov. 9, 10:30–11:30 a.m. Bring your own designs to make personalized coasters in time for holiday entertaining. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Cutting Edge Creations, Mastering Cricut Design Space: Thursday, Nov. 14, 5:30–7 p.m.

Bring your custom design skills to the next level.

This class covers the many advanced features of the Cricut Design Space software. Participants should have a basic knowledge of Cricut software and/or attended the introductory class.

Knit and Crochet Group: Saturday, Nov. 23, 10–12 p.m. Knitters and crocheters are invited to a meet on the fourth Saturday each month to work on individual projects, and perhaps, a group activity. All levels are invited. Space is limited.

BOOK CLUBS Books for book discussions are available at the library, online and through curbside pickup.

Register online or call the library, 860-8445275, to reserve your seat.

Millennials Read: Wednesday, Nov. 6, 6–8 p.m. Each month is at a new local hotspot. At this no-stress book discussion, join readers in their 20s, 30s, and 40s to talk about current book picks. You do not need to be reading anything specific, come and fill up your TBR list.

November’s meeting will be held at the Cossitt Creation Station, Granby Public Library’s Makerspace at the historic F.H. Cossitt Library. We’ll be creating a special “millennials read” project!

Something About the Author Book Club: Monday, Nov. 4, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Discussing River of Darkness by Rennie Airth. This is Airth’s first novel in the John Madden trilogy which was shortlisted for four crime fiction awards. Madden is sent to a small village to investigate a gruesome attack dismissed as a botched robbery by the local police. But Madden detects the signs of a madman at work. John Rusnock leads the discussion.

Sci/Fi Fantasy Book Club: Wednesday, Nov. 20, 6–7 p.m. Discussing A Memory Called Empire by Martine Arkady. Set against a backdrop of political intrigue, cultural clashes, and a desperate fight for identity, the protagonist embarks on a thrilling journey to uncover the truth behind her predecessor’s mysterious death. Written in 2019, it was a finalist for the Nebula Award for Best Novel, and won the 2020 Hugo Award for Best Novel. Jim Gorman leads the discussion.

CHILDREN AND TEEN PROGRAMS AT GPL Tinker Tuesday: Tuesday, Nov. 5, 4:30–5 p.m. Ages: 5–11 years. Children unleash their creativity using LEGO bricks, KEVA planks, and more. This session will feature fun challenges that encourage teamwork and problem-solving.

Simplyart, Rock Painting: Wednesday, Nov. 6, 4:30–5:30 p.m. Ages: 8–11 years. Paint beautiful, free-form designs on rocks, inspired by your imagination. All materials will be provided—just bring your artistic spirit and get ready for a fun, colorful experience.

Teen, Fiber Arts Club: Wednesday, Nov. 13, 3–5 p.m. Grades: 6–12. Join our Fiber Arts Club for teens and explore the world of crochet, needlepoint, hand sewing, cross-stitch, and more! Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, come learn new skills, share your projects, and get creative with friends after school. Some materials will be provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies from home.

Light snacks will be provided. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

WEEKLY STORYTIMES AT GPL Check library calendar to confirm weekly story time dates. Some weekly story times subject to change.

Baby Rhyme Time: Tuesdays, Nov. 5, 12, and 19, 10:30–11 a.m. Ages: Birth–14 months.

Babies and their caregivers are invited to join us for an interactive lap-sit program featuring a story, nursery rhymes, songs and baby sign language.

Mother Goose On The Loose: Wednesdays, Nov. 6, 13 and 20, 10:30–11 a.m. Ages: 2–4 years. Young children and their caregivers are invited to join us for an interactive program featuring nursery rhymes, stories and music activities that promote language development, visual literacy, social and emotional skills.

Toddler Time: Thursdays, Nov. 7, 21 and 28, 10:30–11 a.m. Ages: 15 months–24 months.

Toddlers and their caregivers are invited to join us for an interactive program featuring a story, nursery rhymes, songs, and sign language.

Nightfall Stories and Stretch: Thursdays, Nov. 7, 14 and 21, 6–6:30 p.m. Ages: 4–7 years. Children are invited to join us for an independent mindfulness program featuring stories, stretches, and an interactive activity.

Mini Movers: Fridays, Nov. 10:30–11 a.m.

Ages: 15 months–4 years. Children are invited to join us for an interactive music program featuring songs, dancing, scarves and egg shaker activities.

Mad Agnes trio delighted its audience The series’ next event is a holiday concert on Dec. 14, also at the Granby Congregational Church. Low Lily, from Brattleboro, Vt., played in Granby several years ago to a large and enthusiastic crowd. Look for posters around town and information in the Drummer.

Close to 100 people witnessed the musical magic of Mad Agnes at the Salmon Brook Music Series at the Granby Congregational Church South Campus on Oct. 5.

Submitted photo

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VARSITY FOOTBALL SEASON UNDERWAY At press time, the team was 3-1. Let’s go, Bears!

GMHS football dominates Windsor Locks 54-0

Senior Quarterback Vincent Forte (top center and bottom left photos) led Granby with two rushing touchdowns and three passing touchdowns, while the defense showcased their strength with three interceptions against Windsor Locks. The game was played at home on Oct. 5.

Photos by Jay Harder

Senior Carter Chambers provides coverage for Sophomore Elijah Sam’s run.

Senior Horst Hayes punts to start a new set of downs for Windsor Locks.

Tackle Tristan Jackson (junior) rushes the line as part of the stellar Bears defense.

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Granby Drummer hosts second Puzzle Slam fundraiser Feb. 1

Veterinary Technician Appreciation Week

Oct. 13–19 was Veterinary Technician Appreciation Week. Many people do not realize how important technicians are to the veterinary field. We wouldn’t be able to function without them.

Technicians function like nurses in human medicine. Some may have certifications while others have on-job training. Some have specialty certifications like emergency and critical care or nutrition. They may be responsible for a variety of jobs like laboratory work, patient care, nail trims, blood draws and anesthetic monitoring. They are the “Swiss Army Knife” at any practice.

While technicians are an integral part of any veterinary practice, they don’t always get the recognition they deserve.

The technician field is remarkably underpaid, with the median income being $21.03 per hour according to The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. According to the American Veterinary Medicine Association, the wages of veterinary techs has increased by 25 percent since 2016, but they are still not adequately compensated for the knowledge they have.

The burnout rate in veterinary medicine is high across the board but is

extremely high among technicians. This is partly due to low salaries, but there are other reasons including lack of title protection, difficult clients and high staff turnover, according to the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America.

Compassion fatigue is another major challenge that techs often struggle with. Compassion fatigue describes the physical, emotional, and psychological impact of helping others. Veterinary technicians are often there for the first puppy visits and their patient’s last breaths. Techs have sometimes cared for an animal for its entire life. They have gotten to know the pet’s family and the animal’s little quirks. Seeing not only the animal’s pain, but also its owner’s pain, can become emotionally taxing.

Even though this article will be published after veterinary technician appreciation week, I ask that when you see any technicians at your next vet visit, please say thanks for all they do. They will appreciate the thank you more than you realize—and they deserve every one of them.

On Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, the Granby Drummer will host its second Puzzle Slam competition and fundraiser at the Granby Memorial Middle School. A midwestern favorite, speed puzzling has risen in popularity in recent years. Regional, state, national and world championship competitions bring together people of all ages, who work either solo or in teams to complete a new jigsaw puzzle. Interest has surged across the United States, and the Drummer event in 2024 was a resounding success. The 2025 Puzzle Slam will feature 60 teams of four assembling a 500-piece puzzle with prizes being awarded for first, second and third place winners.

The brainchild of Rita Isaacson, who served as managing editor of the Drummer from 2006 to 2022, the Puzzle Slam is intended as a family-friendly, fun activity to break up the dreary winter to which New Englanders are accustomed. The Puzzle Slam committee is excited to bring the contest

One of the puzzling teams from the February 2024 event. Courtesy photo

back for a second year. “We weren’t sure what to expect last year, but we more than doubled the number of participants that we anticipated. It was wild and we learned a lot,” Isaacson explains. “It’s such a fun event and our sponsors were amazing.”

The 2025 Granby Puzzle Slam is geared towards all ages and all levels of puzzling proficiency. Teams of four will be given a “secret” 500-piece puzzle, which they unwrap and open when the timer is activated. There is no expectation for puzzlers in Granby’s Puzzle Slam to be at the professional level. All levels are welcome in this friendly competition.

To enter as a four-person team, competitors will need to register online and pay a $100 entry fee, which offsets the costs of the event. The registration link will be posted on granbydrummer.com, starting Dec. 1.

Businesses are invited to sponsor the Puzzle Slam or one of the 60 puzzling tables. For information on sponsorships, email editor@granbydrummer. org or leave a message at 860-6539222.

Besides encouraging a community atmosphere, the event will benefit the Drummer and allow it to continue its vital function within the town of Granby.

Having fun with friends

Jennifer Smith Madura, Rob Gangi and Margaret Sullivan gathered with other UNICO members at Ahrens Park to play bocci. Submitted by Joelle Pereira

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Celebrate New England at Granby Land Trust art show The Granby Land Trust, with support from the Granby Artists Association, is set to host its 17th annual art show— Celebrating New England’s Natural Beauty—at the Lost Acres Vineyard Art Gallery in North Granby. The juried show, which will open on Nov. 7 and run through Dec. 7, will feature work of local and regional artists, showcasing their unique interpretations of the natural world through various mediums, including painting, sculpture, photog- A visitor admires the details of a painting at the Granby raphy and mixed media. The Land Trust’s 2023 Art Show, Celebrating New England’s show typically includes about Natural Beauty. This year’s Art Show will run Nov. 7– 75 pieces of art—all available Dec. 7 at Lost Acres Vineyard in North Granby. for purchase, with a portion Photo by Don Shaw, Jr. of sales benefiting the Granby Land Trust.

The Land Trust is grateful to all its But the event is much more than a award underwriters and particularly fundraiser. “We hope that this show to its event sponsors: Mark and Barb will inspire visitors to better appreciate Wetzel and Ted Cormier of ALIRT the natural world, and to reflect on the Insurance Research, LLC for their onimportance of land conservation,” says going, loyal support of the show over GLT President Rick Orluk. “We want to the last 17 years. Their support makes engage more people in our work. Seeing this event possible. nature’s beauty through the eyes of an The show will run through Sunday, artist can remind us to appreciate—and Dec. 7, at the Lost Acres Vineyard Art conserve—the wonders that surround Gallery, 80 Lost Acres Road, in North us.”

Granby. Gallery hours are Friday and Gabrielle (Gab) Robinson, director Saturday from 12 to 6 p.m., and Sunday of the Connecticut Academy of Fine from 12 to 5 p.m. For more informaArts, will serve as the show’s juror. An tion, visit granbylandtrust.org. We hope accomplished artist herself under the everyone can find some time to come name Gabrielle Simmons, Robinson is enjoy this beautiful and diverse collecinspired by her interests in design, artion of fine art. chitecture, gardening, hiking, travel To date, the Land Trust has protectand the natural world, as well as by her ed nearly 3,300 acres of open space, surroundings and visits to museums including forests, agricultural land, and galleries, blending these influences ecologically sensitive areas, wildlife into a vibrant artistic expression. The habitat and scenic vistas in Granby. To Granby Land Trust show is highly sesupport the preservation of Granby’s rulective and only the best art is chosen. ral character, become a member of the The show will open on Thursday, Granby Land Trust for just $30. Go to Nov. 7, 5 to 8 p.m., with a reception GranbyLandTrust.org to join online; or that draws as many as 150 people each mail your donation to us at P.O. Box 23, year. Refreshments are served, includGranby, CT 06035. We will send you ining a glass of wine on the house. Nearly formation on the Land Trust, including $5,000 in awards will be presented to our quarterly newsletter and invitations artists on opening night. to future events.

The 2023 GLT Art Show’s Matthew K. Orluk Award Winner, May at McLean, by Catherine Elliott. Photo by Ed Judge

Granby resident Bill Simpson won the Al and Helen Wilke Award for his painting, Last Good Country No. 2, at the GLT’s 2023 Art Show.

Photo by Ed Judge

The old horse barn on the GLT’s Katan-Ensor Preserve, framed by autumn’s glory.

Photo by Don Shaw, Jr.

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Granby and the First Amendment (Part three)

By Skip Mission In Parts one and two, we saw Granby’s chaffing in its colonial State Church beginnings and the impact of the Great Awakening revival (available on the Drummer website). In Part three of this five-part religious history series, we’ll see the responses to the Great Awakening by the Connecticut colony and by certain New Lights leaving and going South.

The Awakening was characterized by common folks, known as New Lights, under conviction from preaching, trying to live out what their Bibles said. In doing their homework, they found what the state church taught differed from their understanding, which resulted in the church losing its grip on them.

The Connecticut Colony’s response to suppress this was severe. Unprecedented laws were passed that a New Lights person could not be a justice of the peace or hold other offices. Students were expelled from Yale college. Civil penalties against New Lights resulted in them being convicted of felonies with fines and jail time. They were heretics when renouncing infant baptism and were excommunicated. There was even a ban on itinerant preachers, such as Whitefield. Typical was the treatment of Elisha Paine, a pastor in Windham. He was jailed for not paying taxes to the state church because of the New Testament understanding of individual freedom of conscience without a state church. They took “two cows and one steer and now my body held in prison because of the power in their hands.” Such acts continued in Connecticut until 1771.

Two key New Lights who decided to leave the colony’s suppression and head south were Shubal Stearns of Tolland and Daniel Marshall of Windsor. As a result, the Great Awakening continued in the South and set the context for the future Founding Fathers. Stearns, at age 39, was a New Light Congregational Pastor in 1745 who converted after hearing Whitefield. By 1752, he came to the Baptist convictions of adult baptism after belief and the freedom of conscience.

He left Connecticut, with 16 people, to Sandy Creek, North Carolina. Daniel Marshall, another Whitefield convert at age 51, was a deacon at First Church in Windsor. He received persecution on a personal level upon his wife’s death.

He was forsaken by family, friends and church, left to dig his wife’s grave on his own. He left Connecticut and met

Stearns in the South and later married Stearns’ sister.

The two combined for an unusual Southern Great Awakening centered in North Carolina. Marshall was not a preacher but an average man and a mentor / teacher, inspiring disciples. Stearns was a skilled Evangelist preacher speaking to the consciences and hearts of listeners. However, the key skill of both were as motivators: to send out young preachers, organize local independent churches without a clerical form of government, ordain ministers and teaching interdependence of churches. Both persevered in trials and had a zeal to go and share the Good News of Christ. Stearns became known as the Father of Separatists, meaning separation from State Church governments, personal liberty of conscience and the Bible as the only standard for faith and practice.

The result was that 16 people quickly grew to over 600. Over 17 years there were 42 churches and 125 ministries from that one church. The growth process of churches planting churches continued to an estimated 5,000 churches within two generations throughout the South. At age 65, Marshall turned to church planting in Georgia and continued there until he died at age 78. The spread of these Separatist Baptists by word of mouth was like what was seen in the Early Church, creating what became known as the Bible Belt in the South.

Particularly important in Granby’s trail to the First Amendment is the awakening in Virginia. Over the years 1760-1774, 200 churches were established, 150 preachers, more than 20,000 members plus more non-members in attendance. Like New England, the awakening was seen among common people with many of the same responses. As recounted by Elder John Leland (more about Leland next month), this was again thought to be a work of God, as only two of the 150 preachers had any formal education.

The revival success outside of Connecticut, however, stirred up another problem. Eight of the 13 colonies had state churches. This included the three Congregational governments in New England (Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire) and five Episcopal state church governments in the Southern Colonies. Our spotlight now turns to what happened in two counties in Virginia influencing our Founding Fathers.

Luis Franco, photos by Becca Smith

Chelsea Smith

Valley Brook Community Church hires new staff

By Ray Clark Valley Brook Community Church is pleased to announce the arrival of two new staff members, Chelsea Smith as the new director of children’s ministry and Luis Franco as the new director of student ministries.

Smith lives in West Suffield with her husband and children and they have attended Valley Brook for years. She is a graduate of the University of Hartford with a degree in early childhood education and has taught in both public and private schools in Connecticut and Massachusetts. Along with teaching, Smith oversees a large group of volunteers who teach and shepherd the children in the church’s midweek and Sunday morning classes from nursery age through fifth grade. Reflecting on this opportunity, Smith says, “I am so grateful for this opportunity and pray that I can help cultivate a love of Jesus in each child.”

Franco and his family live in Windsor Locks, where he and his wife are raising their young family. While Franco works full time for the City of Hartford, he has felt called to serve in ministry from a young age. Raised in a family where his father was a pastor, he has been involved in ministry since

childhood and, at his previous church, Franco and his wife were very involved in serving students. The focus of the church’s student ministries has Franco working with a team of volunteers to teach students and help them develop biblical values to guide them through life. He leads the ministry at Wednesday night gatherings, weekend retreats and other events. Regarding working with students Franco adds, “Growing up, youth ministry wasn’t just a social club; it was a lifeline. It was where I found a community that understood me, leaders who challenged me and, most importantly, a space where my faith came alive and my relationship with God became real. My prayer is that our students don’t just learn about God, but that they would seek Him with all their hearts and find him waiting with open arms.”

Valley Brook Community Church actively serves the community and seeks to serve people of all ages. Worship services are held in both English and Spanish on Sundays at 10 a.m. at 160 Granville Road in North Granby, with the English services also live-streamed on the church website and YouTube.

Remember to turn your clocks back, Nov. 3 at 2 a.m.!

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November 2024

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Drummer raffle winner announced

Page 33

The Garden Corner

By Cindy Dixon

How to preserve your pumpkins Now that Halloween is near, and we are rolling into November, we realize that we have a bunch of fall decor and pumpkins adorning our porch steps and walkways if the bears haven’t dined on them.

It would be nice to get some extra life out of the orange and white gourds, a warm and festive fall feel. Pumpkins are essentially just another produce, and believe it or not, they are considered a fruit, so they can rot easily.

Joyce Rioles won a $75 gift certificate from the Beman Hardware Store at Celebrate the Valley in September. Rioles, who lives out of town, gifted the gift certificate to her sister Lee French. Submitted photo

GMHS Dramatic Arts presents The Twisted Tales of Poe Granby Memorial High School’s Dramatic Arts program is set to thrill audiences with its newest production, The Twisted Tales of Poe, a gripping play inspired by the eerie works of classic writer and poet, Edgar Allan Poe. The haunting adaptation brings the dark, suspenseful mysteries like The Tell-Tale Heart and The Raven to auditory life in a 1940s-era radio drama.

This production marks a bittersweet moment for the GMHS Dramatic Arts program as it bids farewell to its beloved longtime director, Nikki Currie-Huggard. During her decades of dedicated service, Currie-Huggard has been a cornerstone of the local arts community, guiding countless students to success and enriching the lives of all who have had the privilege to work with her. As her legacy is celebrated, the program also welcomes Erin Dugan as the new director. Dugan brings with her a wealth of theatrical experience, creative energy, and a vision to continue fostering the spirit of excellence that Currie-Huggard

so brilliantly cultivated. Both directors have shaped the program in profound ways, and the future looks bright under Dugan’s leadership.

The Dramatic Arts program promises an unforgettable experience that delves deep into the human psyche and features the dramatic talents of the students.

Featuring eerie soundscapes, dramatic lighting and spine-chilling vocal performances, this play will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Don’t miss the chance to experience this gripping, Gothic masterpiece live!

The Twisted Tales of Poe includes the original writings of Edgar Allen Poe, which explore sensitive themes such as violence, drinking, animal abuse, physical assault, domestic violence and death. Performances will be Friday and Saturday, Nov. 15 and 16, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 17 at 2 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at gmhsfinearts.com/tickets Submitted by the Fine Arts Booster Club

Uncarved Pumpkins Pumpkins will have dirt and bacteria, so wash your pumpkin thoroughly.

Be gentle so that you do not gouge or damage it as that would make it more susceptible to rotting. You can wash your pumpkin using one of these cleaning solutions: a bleach solution of one part bleach to ten parts water, water and dish soap or peppermint Castile soap, or water and vinegar of one part vinegar to three parts water. Make sure to dry your pumpkin completely.

There are a couple of methods you can use to protect the exterior of your pumpkin: apply an acrylic liquid floor cleaner or floor wax, spray with an acrylic finish spray, or rub it with petroleum jelly. Keep your pumpkin cool by placing it where it will not be in direct sunlight or in the rain.

Carved Pumpkins Once you carve your pumpkin it will rot much more quickly. you will be lucky if it lasts a week. To help it last

Stock photos

as long as possible cut the hole in the back or the bottom. Pumpkins usually rot from the top to the bottom. Do your best and get out as much of the seeds as possible. Use a large metal spoon to help you scrape the sides. Dry the insides as much as you can. Use paper towels or even stuff your pumpkin full of newspaper to draw out the moisture. Once you have finished carving your pumpkin masterpiece, make sure to dry the exposed edges well. Then soak it in a bleach bath of 1 teaspoon bleach per gallon of water, or wash it thoroughly with a peppermint Castile soap solution. Let your pumpkin dry completely, then choose one of these options to keep it fresh: spray daily with a bleach or vinegar solution, spray daily with a pumpkin spray, spray with WD-40, rub with petroleum jelly.

Keeping it in the fridge at night will help to keep it from wilting and/or rotting. If your pumpkin starts to wilt let it soak overnight in cold water.

Any pumpkin that has been treated with bleach, sprays or oils should be thrown in the trash and not composted or left for forest animals.

Smaller gourds and pumpkins make wonderful indoor decorations perfect for a harvest-themed table, and they will last longer than your larger variety.

I hope these tips will help you enjoy your pumpkins as long as possible.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!

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The Granby Drummer

Upcoming CT Valley Views programs

Susan Regan, host of CT Valley Views.

Submitted photo

Interview with Senator Harding Susan Regan, host of CT Valley Views, interviewed Sen. Republican Minority Leader Stephen Harding to dig into the critical concern Connecticut taxpayers have with electric bills that skyrocketed this summer.

Watch the program to understand the Public Benefits segment of every household and business electric bill.

It contains line-item charges that have been legislatively mandated. Do not miss seeing Harding’s frank and forthright commentary. Regan also invited Governor Lamont to be a guest on CTVV. See Specialsessionct.com to petition for a special session rather than waiting until January 2025. Time is of the essence with winter approaching particularly for the elderly and those on fixed incomes.

Visit to the American School for the Deaf Regan recently visited the American School for the Deaf in West Hartford. It is the oldest permanent school for the deaf in the United States.

It was founded in 1817 by Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet and serves the deaf and hard of hearing students from ages 3–21. The school was originally called the American Asylum at Hartford for the education and instruction of the deaf and was the first school for deaf children anywhere in the western hemisphere.

These segments are available on your local PATV, or view all of our programs on ctvalleyviews.com

November 2024

Accomplishments at Stony Hill Village over the past year

By Dave Roberts A lot of progress has been made at Stony Hill Village this year. Achievements range from safety improvements, like re-established rail fencing and removing dangerous trees, to community enhancements, such as designated smoking areas and refurbishing mailboxes.

Infrastructure upgrades, including replacing roofs and constructing trash enclosures, highlight the board’s commitment to maintaining and improving living conditions.

More than $100,000 was raised by the Stony Hill Village board and there has been incredible community engagement through both the spring and fall serve days. Here are some other highlights: • A nine-member Board of Directors has been seated with members who have diverse backgrounds and a passion for SHV. • Rail fencing re-established to close off Morgan Street to through traffic, for resident safety.

• Rail fencing re-established behind Building G, for resident safety.

• Dangerous trees were taken down within the village.

• Designated smoking areas established with picnic tables.

• First trash enclosure built next to Building H. • Second and third trash enclosures are funded and will be constructed shortly.

• Mailboxes for Buildings G, H, and I have been refurbished.

• Unit numbers were installed on the back entrances to all 49 units.

• Unit E-6 was completely refurbished and has been rented.

• The roof was replaced entirely over Units C3–C5.

• The roof renovation project is funded and roofs will soon be replaced on Units B3–B5.

There is much still to do. The Stony Hill Villages Board hopes all residents, and the whole community, can see and feel the positive momentum occurring at Stony Hill Village.

November 2024

The Granby Drummer

Friends of Stony Hill Village hosts community serve day

By Dave Roberts The sun shone bright and the weather was perfect for the fall cleanup at Stony Hill Village in the heart of Granby.

Friends of Stony Hill Village, chaired

by Patty Sansone, and Stony Hill Village Tenants Association, chaired by Sandy Flagg, partnered with the Stony Hill Village Board of Directors to host its third community serve day, bringing together volunteers to assist residents with tasks around the property. Volunteers dedicated more than 100 hours to grounds maintenance, disposing of residents’ trash, hanging curtain rods and removing unwanted debris, all to help improve the living conditions of Stony Hill Village residents.

Thanks to the Northwestern CT Cyber Lions Club for generously providing event insurance and ensuring the day ran smoothly. Board member Lorri DiBattisto’s support in funding the dumpster was also instrumental in making the event successful. The community and board members brought in some large equipment and numerous tools to make the village sparkle. Some tenants had tears in their eyes because they were so grateful for the volunteer help.

Many hands made light(er) work for the fall serve day at Stony Hill Village.

Submitted photos

Legally Blonde comes to Simsbury The Theatre Guild of Simsbury is proud to present Legally Blonde the Musical for its 51st season. The show will be presented at Simsbury High School on the second and third weekends of November. Based on the wildly popular film, Legally Blonde the Musical is filled with catchy songs, amazing dance numbers, and a story that captivates all.

Legally Blonde is a story of empowerment, of believing in yourself and not taking people at face value. The old adage rings true—don’t judge a book by its (baby pink) cover. With artistic direction and set design by Kate Kovacs, music direction by David Marotollo, choreography by Matthew Guerrera, and technical direction by Alan Wild, we’d love for you to join us for an unforgettable night that will have you tickled pink!

Evening performances are Friday, Nov. 8, Saturday, Nov. 9, and Saturday, Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m. Matinees are on Sunday, Nov. 10, Saturday, Nov. 16, and Sunday, Nov. 17 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase at the door, but skip the stress (and save money!) by purchasing them at theatreguildsimsbury.org Concessions provided by TGS sponsor Dunkin’ Donuts. Presented by special arrangement with MTI.

Photo submitted by Theatre Guild

Floors

Installation, Staining, and Refinishing Serving the Farmington Valley and beyond for 35 years Glenn Sullivan 860-712-9803

Owner Operated Fully Insured

Page 35

S&S holds pet food fundraiser Granby’s Stop & Shop fundraising coordinator Rosia Kennedy (l.) and store manager Marty Cusick say thank you to all of the customers who supported the pet food drive to support the Meriden Humane Society, as the society is in desperate need of pet food and supplies.

Submitted by Sheila White

Safety first when buying or installing a woodstove

Wood burning stoves can be a way to lower fuel costs and aid in heating a residence. However, wood stoves and alternative heating devices can be a life-threatening hazard if not installed properly. A building permit is required for any alternative heating appliance prior to the installation. Permits are required to be a listed and labeled appliance. The installation requirements, as specified, are what has been tested and is required by the manufacturer for clearances. The installation should be inspected and approved prior to the use of the heating appliance. There may be additional air needed for proper combustion.

There are floor and wall protection requirements to prevent heat build-up and minimize the risk of fires caused by heat exposure. The chimney connector and the chimney have their own requirements for clearances from combustibles.

The chimney has height requirements to

properly remove products of combustion from the house.

Routine maintenance is required to prevent the build-up of creosote, a product of combustion, in the chimney connector and the chimney. Any ashes removed from the heating appliance must be completely out prior to being removed or disposed of. Use a metal only receptacle with a metal top for removing ashes. These ashes may remain a fire hazard for many hours after the fire has gone out. They must be removed from the building and not be in contact with materials that will burn. Every heating season improperly disposed of ashes cause accidental fires.

We urge safety when using any appliance. The building department is available to answer questions by calling 860-844-5318.

Submitted by Granby Land Use Coordinator Renee Deltenre

Page 36

The Granby Drummer

Photographer in the right place at the right time

Closer to Home

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Robert Flanigan of Granby captured the northern lights Oct. 7 at the Barkhamsted dam.

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Email: ads@granbydrummer.org

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Email: editor@granbydrummer.org WORK DATES: Nov. 11 to 24 Call or email for times.

The public is encouraged to submit articles and photos about events of interest to Granby residents. The editors urge you to make submissions by email if at all possible.

We acknowledge submissions by return email. If you do not hear from us please follow up with another email or leave a message at 860-653-9222. Articles should be written in the third person. More detailed information on Drummer submission requirements is available on the website at granbydrummer.com

November 2024

Page

Beman Hardware 25 Berkshire Hathaway - Nancy Reardon 7 Berkshire Hathaway - Harness Way 31 Brignole Bush & Lewis 2 Cambridge Brew House 31 Carmon Funeral Home 8 Carter Robert Painting 14 Cetera Investors 32 Chiropractic Care of Granby 3 Christopher Bryant 23 Connecticut DOT Notice 10 D’Agata-Perry Granite & Bronze 21 Drummer - Puzzle Slam 29 Evans Automotive 18 Granby Fine Arts Boosters (GMHS Drama) 9 Granby Community Fund 6 Granby Congregational Church 15 Granby Democratic Town Committee 20 Granby Dental 11, 34 Granby Dental Center – Dr. Ungerleider 23 Granby Food Bank 4 Granby Land Trust 22 Granby Self Storage 32 Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce 30 John Kissel 12 Higleyville Coin Co. 27 Judy Guarco – Berkshire Hathaway 11

Advertisers Kim Becker Mark Anderson McClean Landscaping Morawski Cleaning Necker’s Toyland OP Painting Ravenswood Route 10 Tire Salmon Brook Historical Society Sanditz Travel Santa Realty Sarah Byrnes Jeweler Shaffer Beacon Mechanical Small Town Septic State Line Propane & Oil Sullivan Hardwood Floors Swim Center at Westminster The Elite Residential Cleaning The Whisk Thomas Sullivan - Morgan Stanley Troiano Oil Company Two Park Place Valley Student Theater Virtuaid Hub Westfield Bank Windsor Federal Savings

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