Granby Drummer | October 2023

Five Granby police officers honored

By Kurt LaFlamme, Captain

On Sept. 6, five Granby Police Officers were honored during an award ceremony at the police department.

The Life Saving Award is granted to any sworn or civilian member for saving a human life involving exceptional courage or performance.

Sergeant Mikan and Sergeant Joseph— Life Saving Award

On June 30, 2022, a motor vehicle accident occurred at the intersection of East Granby Road and Salmon Brook Street. The vehicle rolled over and came to a final rest on its roof on the town green. The single occupant of the vehicle was held into place by her seatbelt, upside down. Sergeant Joseph arrived and after checking on the occupant, she

was found to be unconscious and did not have a pulse. Joseph, realizing that her seatbelt was cutting off her airway, cut her seatbelt. Joseph, along with Sergeant Mikan, pulled the occupant out of the vehicle and started patient care. A pulse was then found. The patient slowly became verbally responsive and was later transported to the hospital. Joseph and Mikan’s quick response and recognition of the patient’s condition was critical in saving her life.

Sergeant Mikan and Officer Tanucci— Life Saving Award

On January 25, 2023, a report was received from a medical care facility for a patient who was neither responsive nor breathing. When Sergeant Mikan and Officer Tanucci arrived, they assessed Police Awards cont’d. on p. 2

News from Town Hall

News and upcoming events from various departments at Granby Town Hall.

The Summer Reading Program at the Granby Public Library was very successful again this year. More than 800 patrons signed up for the program, and prizes donated by the community, as well as the Friends of Granby Public Libraries, were awarded to more than 20 participants. Throughout the program, there were 10,000+ patron visits, 4,972 items borrowed, and a total of 21 library programs were held with 257 individuals in attendance. Thank you to all of our supporters and participants.

The library board is working on sourcing funding for various improve-

ments to the building. It is continuing to pursue options for using ARPA funds to update library spaces, including new carpets, paint and ceiling work. The estimates of the project costs have been received and the investigation of other funding opportunities available through the Connecticut State Library has begun. Keep an eye out for a fresh new look at the library soon!

The Building Department has been very busy as construction work on Station 280 continues to progress. Framing is underway on Building 1, electrical and plumbing is underway on Building 2, and framing has been started on Building 3. For site work, the first course of pavement has been installed on all the parking areas and driveways, and the drainage has been completed throughout the site. It is expected the developer will be submitting plans for revisions to

Tiny tot in big tire at Coward Farm

Open Farm Day was an enthusiastic success! The Granby Agricultural Commission believes this year had a record turnout and participating farms touted seeing many new families and faces. Planning is underway for 2024 – see page 27 for more of Shirley Murtha’s photos of the day.

Town well positioned for tomorrow

By Michael Guarco, Chair, Board of Finance

The Town of Granby closed the books on the fiscal year—FY23—that ended on June 30 in a strong financial position, as anticipated. The past four years have seen minimal actual tax rate increases—two years with no change and two years at less than one percent—while the General Fund continued to strengthen, on both fronts benefiting from the recent growth in the Grand List, local tax collection rates, and the level of state revenues to the town all coming in above the norm and over what was budgeted.

Granby is then well-positioned to tackle the impending municipal communications system capital project, paying for it from existing resources rather than long term debt upon its completion. Being able to handle this roughly $4M expenditure in this manner allows us to not have to bond it, which would otherwise add a nearly one percent increase in taxes to 20 years’ worth of budgets.

Even while looking to use our own money for the communication system, capital expenditure once submitted for public approval, executed, and paid for, Granby will still be holding a roughly 15 percent General Fund reserve, sufficient

to maintain our current AA+ credit rating from Standard and Poor. Over the past two dozen years, Granby has gradually seen its financial position strengthen, and its credit rating continually improve as well. Yet many factors can put pressure on budgets…on taxes…on the General Fund. The positive trends referenced above come and go…Special Education needs across the nation are volatile and hard hit—and given the recent cost inflation we have all had to deal with at home—so too it affects government at all levels as it impacts budgets and labor contracts.

While the challenges are many, the boards, and those who serve on them, are well prepared to deal with the issues Granby, like other towns, will face. Experience and results do matter. For the Board of Finance, fiscal discipline and taking the long view have been hallmarks of how we operate and look to manage the fiscal affairs of our town, as we endeavor to balance the needs of Granby with the cost to each of us to do so. As we look ahead at what we as a town will face in the upcoming years—whether it be for operations or capital infrastructure—part and parcel of budgetary decision-making is an implicit and integral sensitivity to the taxpayers.

From left, Chief Rosensweig, Sergeant Joseph, Officer Abalan, Officer Walzak, Officer Tanucci, Captain LaFlamme. Submitted photo

American Recovery Plan Act funding Granby’s GIS update

By Shirley Murtha

During Covid, the federal government supplied help to the country’s towns and cities by distributing funds under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). These funds enable municipalities to maintain or improve their infrastructure and technology, among other categories. Granby received a total of $3,405,503.38.

The Town of Granby published a preliminary project list of 35 items in May 2022. The list was developed after much input from the town’s various boards, commissions and departments. The requests for allocations were required to be submitted to ARPA by the end of 2024, and the funds are to be spent by the end of 2026. As of Aug. 15, seven of the dozen or so most critical projects have been completed.

One of the first priorities was to update the town’s Geographic Information System (GIS), which had not been done in 10 years. The GIS is important to the town in many ways. According to Director of Community Development Abby Kenyon, the town maintains a parcel

database in the GIS that shows property lines, topography, wetlands boundaries, zone boundaries, sewer line locations, FEMA flood hazard areas, catch basins and building locations. From this data, the staff can create maps that provide accurate measurements and allow visualization of various types of projects.

An example of such usage occurred in the spring when the Planning and Zoning Commission was considering changes to the Neighborhood and Commercial Transition Zone. The Community Development Department used the GIS to create a series of maps showing setback distances and buffers to help in the decision-making.

Also, during the summer, the Public Works Department used GIS to map the location of the town’s catch basins to comply with the federally mandated Municipal Stormwater Program (MS4.)

Public Works uses this map to set benchmarks establishing the time when a basin cleaning is necessary, based on the direction of flow (also readable from the map) and the amount of sediment accruing. Some basins need to be cleaned

Lew McIntyre recognized for service

Granby resident Lew McIntyre was awarded a proclamation honoring his recent retirement after 40 years of service to the Stony Hill Village senior housing community. The award was presented at the Sept. 18 meeting of the Board of Selectmen. From l., Student Representative Chas Orluk, Selectmen Kelly Rome and Fred Moffa, First Selectman Mark Fiorentino, Lew McIntyre, Town Clerk Scott Duncan, and Selectmen Mark Neumann and Peggy Chapple. Photo by Shirley Murtha

every year and others perhaps every two or four years. This information is now available online rather than by on-site inspection. It is also important in times of catastrophic weather events to know the location of all the town’s catch basins.

In addition to P & Z and Public Works, the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses

Commission and any developer planning to build a house or other structure can easily find answers to questions by using the GIS available online.

The GIS update has been completed using the $10,890 of allocated ARPA funds.

the patient who was pulseless. Mikan gave ventilations while Tanucci started chest compressions, which they continued until the Granby Ambulance staff arrived and took over patient care. The patient regained a pulse and started minimal breathing when transported to the hospital. Mikan and Tanucci’s actions helped the patient survive the incident, and the patient was given a few more weeks of life before passing away.

Officer Abalan and Officer Walzak— Life Saving Award

On June 17, 2022, a medical assist request was received for a person who had possibly overdosed. On arrival, Officer Walzak asked the proper questions, looked for indications of drug use and administered Narcan to the patient. When the ambulance staff and Officer Abalan arrived, Walzak gave a run down on the patient care he had provided, and the information he had at the time. Walzak continued with patient care which included rescue breathing. Abalan assisted the ambulance staff and Walzak. Both Walzak and Abalan were calm and treated the patient with care and compassion.

The Police Merit Award is granted to a member of the department based upon performance of intelligent and valuable police service that demonstrates a special faithfulness or devotion to duty.

Sergeant Joseph—Police Merit Award

During this past year the Granby Police Department has upgraded its Records Management System. This long and complex project required configuring numerous working elements ensuring each complex step moved the project closer to completion. Sergeant Joseph’s involvement was instrumental. He worked relentlessly with vendors and administrators, looking at budgetary concerns as well as the quality of equipment. He met deadlines, worked additional hours, and often worked out problems on his own time by phone or stopping by the department to resolve an issue. Joseph’s dedication is evident. He has shown a truly vested interest in the department.

Police Awards cont’d. from p. 1

PLANNING & ZONING HIGHLIGHTS

SEPTEMBER 12, 2023

Present: Eric Lukingbeal, Alternate Robert Lavitt, Mark Lockwood, Eric Myers, Jonathan Boardman, Christine Chinni, and Alternate Paula Johnson. Director of Community Development Abigail Kenyon and Land Use Coordinator Renee Deltenre. Absent: Matthew Peters and Brennan Sheahan

Public session

Kate Bogli of 198R Salmon Brook Street expressed safety concerns regarding the State Department of Transportation road reconstruction project in Granby Center.

Application seeking a Special Permit for a detached accessory apartment at 380 Salmon Brook Street, File Z-16-23

Applicant and property owner Elizabeth Cote is applying to establish a detached accessory apartment within an existing outbuilding. Kenyon stated that the apartment would be two stories and just over 1,000 square feet.

The commission unanimously approved the application as proposed.

Informal Discussion: Four Dads Pub, Outdoor Dining Area

Dante Boffi of Four Dads Pub discussed the potential expansion of the business, as well as current violations. The restaurant owners are considering a 500 square foot addition to the north side of the building to expand the existing kitchen, add interior seating, and potentially relocate live music performances inside. Boffi also stated that the owners would like to expand the existing parking lot and enlarge the dumpster enclosure area to accommodate

rubbish and recycling needs. In a memorandum to the commission, Kenyon provided a history of prior approvals, as well as the temporary outdoor dining areas that were permitted under the Governor’s Executive Order and were to be removed once said order expired.

Staff Report and Correspondence

The Granby Center Advisory Committee will be kicking off at the end of the month. A site inspection at Station 280 was recently conducted for a bond reduction request, which was approved as the first course of pavement has been completed, along with the retaining walls, drainage, and other site work. Staff met with the applicant team a month ago to discuss Certificates of Occupancy and their anticipated timeline.

Kenyon reported a final site inspection at Murtha’s Way was conducted in August and the bonds are being released. Harness Way is under construction and the first course of pavement is in, along with some additional landscaping throughout the site. Myers expressed concerns regarding the proposed drainage and Kenyon stated that the town engineer has been in touch with the project engineer regarding the front detention basin.

According to the Department of Transportation, the road reconstruction project in Granby Center should be substantially complete by the end of October. Kenyon and the commission discussed pedestrian activity in the center, crosswalks and the potential for striping, no turn on red signage, and realignment of traffic signals.

VNA merger underway

The Farmington Valley Visiting Nurse Association will be merging with the Visiting Nurse and Hospice of Litchfield County. This merger will allow the consolidation of operations as a larger unified VNA organization.

The FVVNA will continue to serve the residents of Farmington Valley as it has for the last 115 years. The office building on Old Mill Lane in Simsbury will remain open and in use. The services, care and programs you experience today will continue. This strategic move will strengthen its ability to sustain the high-quality care that has always been provided. Your voluntary support and donations remain essential to the FVVNA and will continue to be utilized in the Farmington Valley community.

Source: Extract of September 5, 2023, letter from Nancy Scheetz, Chief Executive Officer and Jeff Case, President of Board of Directors.

Town Hall cont’d. from p 1

the “amenity space,” including changes to the pool and patio area.

The Murtha’s Way development is now complete. All of the 75 units, a mix of single-family houses and duplexes, have been constructed and received a Certificate of Occupancy.

The Granby Police Department has recently installed some exciting new technology, including state-of-theart dashboard cameras in each police cruiser. This camera system integrates with the police department’s body-worn camera system to support transparency and accountability. The systems are also compatible with the video systems of other police agencies, which allows for an easy exchange of information. The

Rotary Club elects new president

By Karen Young

Patrick Sullivan has accepted the Rotary Club leadership role for the 2023-24 fiscal year. He held this same position 30 years ago. Sullivan’s extensive knowledge and experience with community involvement, and management will be beneficial for the club’s community initiatives.

The Rotary Club is an international organization with 1.4 million members in nearly every country in the world. It is a coed, nonprofit and non-denominational club with the mission to provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through fellowship of business, professional and community leaders.

The Simsbury/Granby Club is active in Granby with college and trade

school scholarships. It is the lead partner for Rotary Park Playground on Iron Horse Boulevard in Simsbury and has supported Holcomb Farm, Food Share, food banks, pollinator gardens, Greenway Trail Maintenance, Simsbury Ambulance, Medical Closet, and many other organizations. The Rotary Club meets weekly on Thursdays, mornings except for the last Thursday of the month being an evening gathering, at rotating restaurants in Granby and Simsbury.

The club’s priority this year is to expand its commitment to the Granby community—it is seeking new members and planning new projects to make a lasting difference. To learn more, contact Sullivan at c21sullivan@comcast. net or simburygranbyrotary.org

Drummer receives special GCF grant

The board of directors of the Granby Community Fund (GCF) has announced the approval of a $2,000 special grant to assist the Citizens for a Better Granby (CBG) with the increased printing expenses of The Granby Drummer

GCF President Patty Sansone, noted “We are excited to have CBG as a new member agency and see this as a partnership for the benefit and betterment of our entire Granby community.”

Formed in 1960, the mission of the Granby Community Fund is to coordinate a town-wide fundraising effort each year for the various community

501(c)3 organizations that serve the residents of Granby, North Granby, and West Granby. All its board members volunteer their time, some represent member agencies while others are residents known as Directors at Large. In addition to CBG, member organizations include American Red Cross, Farmington Valley YMCA, Granby Boy Scouts, Granby Girl Scouts, Granby Social Services, Friends of Holcomb Farm, Marquis of Granby, Meals on Wheels, Parents for a Safe Graduation, Salvation Army, and Waste Not Want Not Kitchen.

police department has now updated and modernized many critical systems, including the cruiser cameras, body-worn cameras, computer-aided dispatch and records management, and mobile data terminals.

Granby Senior Services received a grant called the National Council on Aging Covid-19 and Influenza Vaccine Uptake Initiative in the amount of $10,000. This initiative supports senior centers in encouraging residents to get their vaccinations for the upcoming flu season.

To receive updates about these events and other topics of interest, sign up for notifications at granby-ct.gov Click on the yellow “Subscribe” button on the homepage and follow the instructions.

Patrick Sullivan, photo by Terri Ann Snediker

Drumbeat editorials, commentary & letters to the editor

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

The Drummer thanks you — your support matters

We’re immensely grateful to all of you who generously donated to the Drummer during the past several weeks, and your notes telling us how much you appreciate the Drummer touched our hearts. Your support helps us continue our mission to bring Granby’s news to friends and neighbors via print, on our website and through social media.

We’re not yet close to meeting our goal of “breakeven” finances for 2023 but, with our readers’ help, we’ll get there! We value every donation, whether $25 or $2,000.

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Thank you for choosing to donate to the Drummer! — Citizens for a Better Granby Board of Directors

Thank you, Granby Ambulance Association

When we moved to Granby in the 1970s, I joined the Granby Ambulance Association (GAA) as a volunteer. The ambulance was an old Cadillac hearselike station wagon and I completed a Red Cross program to qualify and later took an Emergency Medical Technician course. Our primary goal was to transport people to the hospital of their choice while performing basic emergency care and stabilization. I was proud to be a small part of a great service to Granby.

Never did I consider I would ever need help from the GAA. Last month I had a heart attack at home. Initially we went to Urgent Care and they soon called GAA. The ambulance arrived quickly, I was evaluated and found myself on a cot in the ambulance. While en route to Hartford Hospital, the EMTs gave me an EKG, a nitroglycerine, and forwarded my status to the hospital. The hospital had its heart attack team at the door and within a half hour, the blockage was removed and a stent was in place. Two days later I came home feeling fine and profoundly thankful.

Believe me this is not the GAA of my volunteer days and I most certainly appreciate its professional and technical advances and the incredible commitment to service it provides to Granby and surrounding communities. If my experience has taught me one thing, it is this: donate to the GAA’s fundraising efforts during its next drive. It’s a service I hope you never need, but truly a lifesaving one if you do.

Thank you, GAA and Hartford Hospital, for saving my life.

Harry R. Jones

Social Security Concerns

I attended Representative John Larson’s talk on where we stand with Social Security benefits. I had not realized that there are members of Congress who want to raise the age to receive Social Security benefits and cut those benefits, as well. Larson has a bill that will address the deficiencies of Social Security and move us into the 21st century, without compromising

The Granby Drummer

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what we already have.

His bill, “Social Security 2100” would increase benefits by two percent on average for all beneficiaries for the first time in 52 years. It would improve the COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) to correctly reflect inflation. It would cut taxes for middle income beneficiaries. Public service workers would no longer be penalized. The starting age to receive benefits would not change. Student benefits would be restored to age 26. Caregiver credits would increase. And here’s the best part: these and other improvements would all be paid for by raising the income ceiling (the point when your income is so high, you do not pay any higher amounts). That will affect only those making more than $400,000 per year (the top 0.6 percent of our entire population).

Representative Larson pointed out that most Social Security recipients spend their benefits locally, thus strengthening our local businesses and contributing to the economic health of our communities. He reminded us of something we tend to lose sight of— Social Security is the insurance policy we paid into all our working lives; it is not a “free handout” nor “welfare.” It is pay back on our insurance policy, just like any other. And it has never missed a payment.

Our country cannot function effectively if our fellow citizens are living in poverty. For half of all seniors, Social Security provides the major part of their income, keeps 9 million women out of poverty, gives benefits to 8 million veterans, and the list goes on.

A similar bill to Representative Larson’s will come up for a vote in the Senate after the new year and then it must make its way to the House. Let’s keep an eye on its progress—for all our sakes.

Josi Klein

Support for Logan

I write this letter to encourage you to consider voting for Monica Logan for the Granby Board of Education. She did not grow up in Granby, so she may be an unknown to many of us who have

2023

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been here for many years. I first met her as one of the primary movers to bring a group of citizens together to form Granby Racial Reconciliation (GRR), which has brought several educational opportunities to Granby: book studies, movies, Conversations in the Park, as

Letters cont’d. on p. 5

Town of Granby Meeting Calendar

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

Board of Selectmen, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Mondays, October 2 and 16

Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Police Dept. Community Room, Monday, October 23

Board of Education, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesdays, October 4 and 18

Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Tuesdays, October 10 and 24

Inland Wetlands and Water, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesdays, October 11

Development Commission, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesday, October 11

CORRECTIONS

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

KEEP US IN THE LOOP

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GRANBY FOOD BANK

We currently need

Canned ravioli/ spaghetti/chili

Canned chicken/tuna

Canned green beans/ corn/peas

Pickles/relishes/ ketchup/mustard

Brownie/cookie mixes

Paper towels/tissues

Dish soap/laundry soap

CBG Board

Kathy Norris, Chair

David Tolli, Vice Chair

Karen Cleary, Treasurer

Flo Bishoff, Secretary

Carol Bressor, Roger Hayes

Rebecca Mikus, Sam Mikus, Lew Noble Staff

Jennifer Bell, Managing Editor

Leisa Ritchie, Production Supervisor

Chris Levandowski, Copy Editor

Amanda Lindberg, Copy Editor

Dave Tolli, Photo Editor

Kathy Agresta, Carol Bressor, Carolyn Carter, Nancy Dudenhofer, Karen Handville, Rick Handville, Rita Isaacson, Patricia Kovaleski, Andrea Leshinskie, Eileen Longhi, Nicole Muller, Donna Schedinger, Faith Tyldsley

Reporters & Contributors

Chase Alexander, Jennifer Benson, Kate Bogli, AnneMarie Cox, Rob Flanigan, Mark Fiorentino, Bernadette Gentry, C.J. Gibson, Mike Guarco, Jay Harder, Holly Johnson, Brian Liss, Kim Periera, Nicole Muller, Shirley Murtha, Faith Tyldsley, Todd Vibert, Kristine Vincent, John Violette, Laura Wolfe, Amber Wyzik, Sandy Yost

Advertising Team

Deneika Janski, Advertising Coordinator

Deborah Kulwich, Beth Rathey

Website Manager

Jake Kean

Subscriptions & Delivery

Sam & Rebecca Mikus

LETTERS POLICY

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

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well as the annual Juneteenth Celebration.

I served with her on the Education Subcommittee of GRR which has met with the superintendent and assistant superintendent monthly to discuss ways in which we might be supportive to the school system. She proved to be an eminent listener, thoughtful and reasonable in her responses. In this time when there are rigid ideologues on both the right and the left, she seeks practical solutions discovered by listening to all voices, from the shouts to the whispers. Her experience serving Granby is already apparent. She has worked on the BOE for two years as a member of the finance subcommittee. She is also the board of ed liaison for the Granby Equity Team and was recently elected secretary of the BOE. She is part of the negotiation team for the teacher’s new contract and was part of the team that successfully negotiated the custodian contracts last year. She has a personal interest in our school system as her boys are in third and fourth grade at Wells Road Elementary School.

A vote for Ms. Logan is a vote for creative thinking and compassionate conversation toward the goals of excellence and equity in Granby Public Schools.

Denny Moon

It is my pleasure to ask you to re-elect Monica Logan to the Board of Education on Nov. 7. During her tenure, Monica has been an advocate for parents and students and a needed voice of reason during critical conversations. Throughout her tenure, she has served on the Finance Subcommittee, participated in union contract negotiations, acted as liaison to the Granby Equity Team, and additionally currently serves as board secretary. Clearly, her professional skills as an attorney and negotiator are highly valued.

As the mom of two boys, Monica has first-hand experience of the strengths and challenges in Granby Public Schools. She is deeply committed to public education and strongly believes in creating a welcoming school climate in order to not only improve students’ mental health and interactions but also to boost their academic achievement.

Re-electing Monica Logan to the Board of Education is a win for our schools and our community. Please vote for Monica on Nov. 7.

Kim Becker

You may not know the name Monica Logan, but if you want to make sure your vote in the upcoming municipal elections makes a positive impact on our town, please join me in supporting Monica Logan for our Board of Education.

Monica was appointed to the BOE two years ago and in a short time has already made her mark: she serves on

the BOE Finance Committee and the Granby Equity Team and is active in BOE contract negotiations. Her 20-year legal career includes extensive experience in complex dispute resolution. Her work on our behalf is also personal, as she has kids in Granby’s public schools.

As a 10-year veteran of Granby’s BOE—now serving on the Board of Finance—I can attest to the important and complex issues that our volunteer-elected officials deal with. Post-Covid, and in the current environment, the complexity has certainly increased. As a taxpayer, I am grateful that people like Monica Logan are working to ensure the most efficient and effective public education resources are available to all of Granby’s residents. Finding the right balance between funding quality education while managing the tax burden is a challenge we must embrace, and Monica Logan has and will continue to help us do so. Please join me in voting to keep her on the Board of Education.

Jenny Emery

Support for Lombardo

I am writing in support of Heather Lombardo for the Granby Board of Education. As Granby Public Schools face change and uncertainty, the board needs a balanced approach to navigate through. Heather’s history with our community exceptionally demonstrates these skills.

First, taking a data-centric approach but tempering with empathy. Running a team of journalists at EPSN for over 22 years has honed these skills. In sports, statistics measure performance and often determine the outcome, but we care because of the context and story. Bringing this to Granby Public Schools, citizens need the data, but also the “why”—especially when segmented achievement score statistics are not as generally understood as field goal percentage.

Which leads to doing and listening. Heather’s performance as chair of the Granby Agricultural Commission is exemplary. While we have quite a diverse group of farmers in town, there are no “red farms” or “blue farms” on the Ag Commission, only Granby Farms. By both acting (e.g., the continued success of Open Farm Day) and listening to their common needs (e.g., staffing, taxes) the Ag Commission keeps our farm community viable and at the center of Granby’s culture.

Finally, embracing conflict then forging team consensus is where it all comes together. Heather knows professional debate is a tool to build the very best ideas. It’s accomplished by knowing the facts, listening to people’s points of view, understanding those perspectives in context, and finally arriving at a decision to do. It’s about everyone on the team committing to the common outcome—whether meeting a production deadline, advocating for our farmers, or, in her new role, elevating our pub-

lic school system to be the envy of the state—with property values to prove it.

Please vote for Heather Lombardo on Nov. 7.

Chris Becker

As the mother of a first grader here in town, as someone with many teachers in her family, and as someone who believes that a strong school system contributes to the strength of the town itself, the long-term growth and success of the Granby school system is very important to me. This is why I am writing to enthusiastically support Heather Lombardo for Granby’s Board of Education.

A Board of Education (BOE) with a more balanced representation of our town is better for our schools and our students, and the current make-up of five Republicans and two Democrats simply does not accurately represent our town. We need a more balanced BOE so it is able to work fairly and responsibly to represent the perspectives of all parents and students in town.

I’ve personally known Heather for many years through our shared passion for horses, and two years ago I joined the Granby Agricultural Commission, of which Heather is chairperson. No matter the project or the situation, Heather always brings level-headedness, professionalism, and a drive for excellence to her work. She is a natural leader, a thoughtful and objective listener, a person who cares about people and our town, and she is a person who will advocate for our students and our schools. Heather can bring the perspective and balance we need to our Board of Education.

Heather’s professional experience of over two decades in television and multimedia comes through in her clear communication skills, how she inspires people to work together in such an organized and effective way, and how her approach is consistently positive and solution oriented. This can already be seen in town through her work on the Agricultural Commission, through her leadership in organizing Granby Open Farm Day, and in how she stands up in support of our farmers.

When I heard Heather was running for BOE, I was eager to support because I know she cares deeply about ensuring all parent and student voices are represented in Granby, and I know she has the drive and the skills to advocate for our schools and our students.

Please join me in voting for Heather Lombardo, along with Monica Logan and Liz Barlow for Board of Education on Nov. 7 for a more fairly balanced Board of Education.

Sara Esthus

Support for Barlow

It is with great pleasure that I write this endorsement for Democratic candidate Liz Barlow for a seat on the Granby Board of Education.

I have known Liz for more than 10 years and consider myself fortunate to call her a friend. Liz is thoughtful, kind, compassionate and cares deeply about this town. As a mom of three children currently enrolled in our school system, she is deeply invested in the quality of education they, and all other children in Granby, receive.

She understands the importance of attracting and retaining high-quality, skilled faculty; of ensuring that our schools are welcoming, inclusive, and able to meet our students where they are while simultaneously challenging them to grow; and of creating a community where parents, teachers and administrators alike can communicate respectfully and partner effectively to help our children succeed. Furthermore, Liz’s background as a licensed social worker gives her a unique perspective into the social/emotional/behavioral and mental health challenges our student and teacher populations face. Having worked in a school setting for almost a decade, Liz has seen first-hand both the successes and failures of public education on these and other fronts. She will bring this insight to her position on the Board of Ed and work diligently to improve and strengthen our Granby schools.

In these uncertain times we need committed individuals who are willLetters cont’d. on p. 6

GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN HIGHLIGHTS

AUGUST 21, 2023

Present: Mark Fiorentino, Margaret Chapple, Frederick Moffa, Mark Neumann, Town Clerk Scott Nolan. Finance Director Kimi Cheng, Student Liaison Charles Orluk.

Absent: Kelly Rome

Appointments

The two Granby seats for the Farmington Valley Health District were vacant. The board appointed Joan Kuhnly and Sandra Yost for three-year terms beginning immediately and ending Sept. 1, 2026.

STEAP Grant Applications

Granby Parks and Recreation Director

Kristine Vincent requested submission approval of the Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) grant application for the renovation and reconstruction of existing basketball courts at Salmon Brook Park into a multisport court that can accommodate basketball, volleyball, floor hockey, badminton, pickleball and more. Fiorentino noted that the application requested a grant award of $210,000 in state funding with a proposed match of $42,000 (20 percent) from the town’s recreation fund for a total project cost of $252,000. An additional appropriation request will be presented to the board for

approval if the grant is approved by the state.

Granby Public Library requested that an application for a STEAP grant be submitted for the replacement of the existing sidewalks at the F.H. Cossitt Library as they are crumbling, cracked, are difficult to maintain in the wintertime and have become dangerous for patrons, especially those with disabilities or the elderly. Fiorentino noted that the application requested a grant award of $45,000 and that this amount would fund the project in its entirety and not require any matching municipal funds.

Granby Senior Services Department requested approval to submit an application for a STEAP grant to upgrade the Senior Center kitchen. Currently, the kitchen lacks an adequate utensil sanitation system, which requires using single-service disposable utensils, an environmentally unfriendly situation. Fiorentino noted that an improved sanitation system might include a three-bay sink, commercial grade dishwasher, stainless steel countertops, grease interceptor, and the relocation of the hand washing sink. The STEAP grant application requests a grant award of $126,800 with no matching needs from the municipal funds.

Update on New Phone System Project

The boards of Selectmen and Finance

approved a $55,000 appropriation from the communication fund to upgrade the town’s antiquated phone system. With the new and upgraded IT infrastructure, which was installed and completed in July 2023, the new VoIP phone system project is ready to move forward.

Public Session

Michael Fusick, 55 Northwoods Road, spoke about the drainage infrastructure and pond located on his property which he purchased in May 2022, and explained that it was constructed solely to manage stormwater and collects runoff from eight catch basin located on Northwoods Road and controllable discharges into the abutting property and eventually to the East Branch Salmon Brook.

Robert James Flanigan Jr., Woodcliff Drive, spoke about the changes to the Charter Revision and if the changes had been posted to the town website. Flanigan also inquired about when the next Inland Wetlands and Watercourse meeting was scheduled.

Katherine Bogli, 198R Salmon Brook Street, inquired about an update on the search for a Town Manager, along with the completion date of the road construction in Granby Center.

Looking for additional information?

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

ing to lead our school community with reason, courage and conviction. Liz is one of those individuals. I hope you will consider joining me and supporting her candidacy for the Board of Education.

Corrine DelGallo

Support for Gilton

I am writing in support of Kristina Gilton’s re-election to the BOE. Kristina’s experience and knowledge of school matters is exactly what our town needs to keep our students’ needs a priority so that they can achieve and succeed in life.

I have known Kristina for 19 years and she has always been a strong advocate for education. She has volunteered in our schools from Kearns through high school. She was active in the PTO, culminating in her role as president in 2012-13. During that time, I had the privilege of serving on one of her boards and appreciated her leadership. When her children reached high school, she supported Granby Boosters and has been an advocate for the sports teams her children participated in.

Her work with the Granby Education Foundation and the GranBee gave her an opportunity to see first-hand some of the needs within our schools, and what a difference the right support and content can make. She also has experience in another school district and knows what students need and what student success looks like. Her broad experience in the Granby schools means she knows firsthand the opportunities and challenges of our school system.

Kristina is a strong advocate for our students and I hope you will join me in November in supporting Kristina Gilton for re-election to the BOE.

Beth Nichols

Support for Guarco

It is with great pleasure that I endorse Michael B. Guarco, Jr., for reelection to the Board of Finance.

Over the many years Mike has chaired that board he has shown a deep understanding of the town’s finances. He is always looking at the needs five to ten years in the future so that the mill rate can avoid major fluctuations.

Mike has gained the trust of both the operating boards (Selectmen and Education) for a long time because he listens to their needs and communicates with them. He also keeps the townspeople up to date with his frequent articles in the Drummer Born and raised in Granby, Mike is always working for the best interests of the town. Granby is fortunate to have him in this position.

John B. Flint

Support for Guarco and Kennedy

I’m writing to endorse Mike Guarco Jr. and Bill Kennedy for the Board of Finance. Mike has been on the BOF for more than four decades and Bill, in addition to his involvement on various committees in Granby, has served on the Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance for many years. Their contributions have served to make Granby a better place. Their financial acumen has enabled Granby to make significant improvements to the school system, DPW and infrastructure, and at the same time consider the tax impact to the citizens. While I no longer live in town, I speak with Mike and Bill periodically to see how Granby is doing. I am extremely pleased to see that Granby continues to grow and prosper. I urge you to support these individuals.

Bob Verrengia, Former First Selectman Brewster, Ma.

GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS

SEPTEMBER 6, 2023

Present: Kristina Gilton, Katharine Leenders, Monica Logan, Donna Nolan, David Peling, Whitney Sanzo, Rosemarie Weber, and Katherine O’Neill and Chase Alexander (student representatives).

Chairman’s Corner

Weber announced a new student representative has joined the board, Katie O’Neill.

Superintendent’s Report

Burke congratulated Heather Tanis, the new principal at GMMS.

Twenty-three new teachers started the school year.

The process of developing a district communications plan has begun with an email regarding a survey and focus groups. Community members who do not have children in the district can also participate.

Public Comment

Bill Regan, 62 Hungary Road, Granby, extended his congratulations to the new Board Chair, Rosemarie Weber. He said he wrote a Letter to the Editor in the last edition

See A Christmas Carol at the high school

of the Drummer and is hopeful that the new Superintendent’s goals posted on the agenda will come to fruition. It was not helpful at the meeting in June that all parents were not able to speak at that meeting; however, he is hopeful the new Superintendent will take these comments under advisement.

Beth Carroll, Quail Lane, North Granby, stated she was pleased to hear about community surveys as she has lived in town for 20 years with no children. She shared an observation as a person who has lived and worked in a variety of countries throughout her career and finds the ELA [English Language Arts] skills of students in town could be better and would rather it be a priority for all grade levels.

Summer Programming

Jennifer Miller, director of extended year summer school, Katie Busbey, director of the summer enrichment academy, and Bethany Grupp, family engagement specialist, provided a detailed report on this year’s summer programming.

Superintendent’s Annual Goals

Please see the BOE website for the Sept. 6 minutes to read Burke’s goals for 2023-24.

Youth Services Bureau

Register now for OWLs class

Time is running out to register your child in grades 7, 8 or 9 for the YSB’s Our Whole Lives class. OWLs is a comprehensive human sexuality class that begins in mid-October on Thursday evenings. This class goes far beyond what can be taught in public school. Focused on best practices,

science, and personal and family values, this is a 25-week class that covers gender, sexuality, relationships, the sexualization of our society, risks of pornography and much, much more. Call the Youth Services Bureau for more information, 860-844-5355.

— by AnneMarie Cox

Granby Memorial High School Dramatic Arts is thrilled to be performing Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol this fall. The play is about a misanthrope named Ebenezer Scrooge who receives a visit from his dead business partner on Christmas Eve to warn him that he is going down the wrong path in life. After that, he is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future.

GMHS Dramatic Arts is excited about this upcoming production and to be

Submitted photo performing such a well-known play, which will also include several students from Granby Memorial Middle School. The production will take place in the GMHS auditorium on Friday, Nov. 10 and Saturday, Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 12 at 2 p.m. Ticket prices will be $10 for students, $15 for seniors, and $18 for the general public. Don’t miss it.

Granby Boys Soccer

The Granby boys soccer team competed against Stafford on Sept. 15, winning 7-0.

Photos by Jay Harder

GMHS Career and Technical Education Advisory Board

looking to expand

By Susan Clark, GMHS Business Teacher

Did you know that Granby Memorial High School has a Career and Technical Education (CTE) Advisory Board? This board is a collaboration among teachers, administrators, business industry professionals and community members. Its goal is to share ideas, industry trends and expertise to best prepare GMHS students for college and career.

This dedicated group of local community members and business professionals meets twice a year to promote its triple A objectives:

Advise

The board assesses specific areas of the CTE program and makes suggestions and recommendations for improvements such as curriculum modifications, updates to equipment, safety policy and/or certificate and course opportunities.

Assist

The board helps teachers and administrators carry out specific activities and provides opportunities to connect students to the real world through guest speakers, job shadowing opportunities, internships and a career fair.

Advocate

The advisory committee promotes the CTE program throughout the community and strives to improve the relationships between CTE educators, business/industry partners and the community.

The next meeting of the GMHS CTE Advisory Board will be Thursday, Nov. 9, 7:15 to 8:20 a.m. at GMHS. The board is always looking for new members to join the group. If you are interested, please contact Sue Clark, GMHS Business Education Teacher at clarks@granbyschools.org for more information.

To GMHS seniors, a year of lasts delivers new firsts

By Chase Alexander, GMHS Class of

‘24

Amid the cooler mornings, shifting leaves and decreasing hours of daylight, one undoubtable signal indicated the closing hours of summer: yard signs, scattered throughout town, boldly asserting this message: “First Day of School, August 29.”

For GMHS seniors, festivities marking their celebrated year began a day earlier, when countless students flocked to the school parking lot to add a personal flair to their parking spaces.

Empowered by boxes of chalk and their own artistic license, each student demonstrated that the latter exists across a wide spectrum. The following morning, senior year arrived with the reminder of its short-lived nature, welcoming GMHS seniors to their “last,” first day of school.

In a year of lasts, several emotions prevail. For many students, excitement for the future is at the forefront of their minds. For others, nostalgia floods their memories while others embark on another year seemingly unbothered. From kindergarten to high school, many of the same faces contributed to the same routines and the same experiences year upon year. If all these years of schooling were to be compared to a musical, it would be at this moment, following 13 years of auditioning, rehearsing, and taking the stage, that the curtain would begin to close.

With the consistency of many of the same friends, expectations, and role models, a year of lasts inspires several new firsts. As is the case with most seniors, this writer included, perhaps the reality of setting out toward their own future feels as though it is in short grasp for the first time. Familiar with interacting with the same people, commuting to the same buildings, and resorting to the

same routine of sports and extracurricular activities, high school seniors are in a place where first impressions mean more than anything.

Any senior who has encountered a college essay prompt will associate with the feeling. Following 13 years of sameness, where it was natural to become the best version of yourself among a group of people who knew who you were, it might be considered daunting to advertise yourself to people who don’t know you; to people whose judgment of you exists only in what they can read about you. And to many seniors, this year of lasts brings that first time questioning who they really are, and who they want to be. As a third grader, this writer remembers fearing the future. This writer yearned to go back to the since-closed Kearns primary school, to people who knew him, and to people he knew would nurture his shyness and his hatred for sharing his own work with others. Safe to say things worked out alright.

In essence, senior year deserves to be celebrated. In idiomatic fashion, senior year epitomizes the idea that as one door closes, another door opens. Yet just as one door closes, it does not mean it has to be known what the other door hides, or that we are necessarily ready for the first door to shut us out. But it is this uncertainty, this apprehension, and perhaps most importantly the question for whether we are ready to embark on the next stage of our lives that makes the opening of that second door as important as it will ever be.

This writer is not in third grade anymore, nor are his peers. With that, bring on the lasts; the last games, last tests, and last field trips. When that door closes, these “lasts” will be the first thing that seniors remember when entering the next phase of their lives.

The Granby Memorial High School Career and Technical Advisory Board. Submitted photo

Energetic convocation starts the year for staff

Granby Public Schools welcomed back all staff on Aug. 24 with a high energy convocation. The message of the day was “Let Kindness Ripple.” We plan to carry this theme throughout the 2023-24 school year.

A highlight of the kick-off event was Granby Memorial High School senior Luke Ranicar singing the National Anthem. Luke also sang a beautiful contemporary song by Ben Platt.

Teacher of the Year Ingrid Budlong inspired her colleagues with a message about the inspiration she receives every day from her fellow teachers. Our Board of Education Chair Rosemarie Weber also shared notes of gratitude from recent Granby graduates.

During convocation, staff were introduced to our school district’s two priorities for the year:

• Maximize student growth and achievement

• Improve our school community communications

As Superintendent, I asked our faculty and staff to embrace the following tenets. These will help us carry out our message of kindness as we accomplish our goals:

• Assume good intentions in all people and situations.

• Communicate with clear language that is timely and positive.

• Invite participation—“Parents as Partners”

• Make decisions in the best interest of students—always.

• Believe and act on the idea that “ALL Kids Can!”

• Cultivate curiosity and joy in learning.

Every member of the staff left with a hand-painted kindness rock. They were invited to keep the memento for inspiration or to pass it along to a friend. Making memories on the first day of school Students arrived on Aug. 29 and were welcomed in style!

At Kelly Lane Primary School, students were greeted with a red carpet and balloons. At Wells Road Intermediate School, a cheering squad captured the excitement of the first day. At Granby Memorial Middle School and Granby Memorial High School, faculty and staff met students with smiling faces and warm welcomes.

I was delighted to hear how our class of 2024 students organized themselves to arrive early and watch the sun rise on their senior year!

Getting to work on our goals

At the Board of Education Meeting on Sept. 6, I shared my superintendent

goals for the year. While work will continue in all six strategic goal areas, this year’s focus will support the first two goals around student achievement and communication. Specifically, I will work toward:

• 100 percent of students demonstrating growth toward mastery of grade level science, literacy, and math as measured by performance at the proficiency level or higher on state summative assessments.

• The development of a District Communications Plan responsive to the needs of Granby Public Schools and all relevant partners and groups, including students, parents, teachers, staff, administrators, community members, and local businesses and organizations.

Three communications focus groups (staff, parents and community members) were scheduled in September.

In addition, we are surveying each of these three groups to collect their feedback and ideas about school communications.

The focus groups and surveys will provide us with a deeper understanding of the school communication needs of each group. We will identify our communication strengths and areas where we need to improve. We will then prepare a comprehensive communica-

Granby Memorial High School staff convocation. Submitted photos

tions plan that identifies priorities and includes measurable objectives, strategies, and timelines.

Show your Granby spirit!

We invite you to engage with Granby Public Schools. One great way to share your Granby spirit while also enjoying the fall weather is to attend a sporting event. The Granby Bears athletic teams schedules can be found online at the Granby Memorial High School Athletic Fall Schedules page, as well as page 13 of this issue of the Drummer. Go Bears!

CTVV visits the Wadsworth Atheneum

Susan Regan, host of CT Valley Views, had the distinct pleasure to speak to Jeffrey Brown, CEO of the Wadsworth Atheneum and Matthew Hargraves, PhD, director of the Atheneum, to learn of new directives for the Wadsworth. Its objectives are to reach a greater and more diverse audience with new exhibitions and special activities, and to provide a more expansive world of performing and visual arts.

The Wadsworth is the oldest continually operating public art museum in the United States. The museum’s

nearly 50,000 works of art span 5,000 years from Greek and Roman antiquities to the first museum collection of American contemporary art. It is one of the most valuable jewels of art education in Connecticut. To view this segment or any show on CTVV, please visit ctvalleyviews.com

To find out more about membership at the museum, email membership@ thewadsworth.org For all exhibition fees and calendar information visit wadsworth.org

Kelly Lane student, Ca’Ni Lewis, was excited to begin first grade!

News from the Registrars’ Office

Municipal Election on Nov. 7

We have 13 different races to be decided on Nov. 7 at the Municipal Election, plus one Charter Revision Question. The ballot includes First Selectman, Board of Selectman, Board of Finance, Board of Education, Board of Assessment Appeals, Planning and Zoning, Zoning Board of Appeals and Town Moderator. On Nov. 7, voters will have the opportunity to vote for 26 open seats and, as in the past, a two-sided ballot is needed to include all these offices. In the past, the Board of Selectman race has caused some confusion. All five seats are open every two years, but voters can only choose one candidate for First Selectman and two candidates from those running for the board.

Granby Ballot Question

“Shall the Granby Town Charter be amended as recommended in the Final Draft Report of the Charter Revision Commission of July 26, 2023, as approved by the Board of Selectmen?

Yes or No.” An insert in the September issue of the Granby Drummer has complete details of both the current Charter and the revisions requested. You can see this detail on the town’s website or on the Granby Drummer website: granbydrummer.com/2023/08/town-of-granbyproposed-charter-revisions-2023/

Absentee Ballots Available

All registered voters can opt to obtain and fill out an absentee ballot if they mark one of the qualifying reasons on their application. Voters can use the big white Official Ballot Drop Box located in front of town hall to drop off their completed applications/ballots. Please note, voters can apply to receive their absentee ballot online using the Connecticut Secretary of State’s Website oabr-sots.ct.gov/OABR/absenteeBallotReqPortalHome.do

The form is also available for voters to apply in person at town hall. Absentee ballots are handled through the town clerk’s office, and represent a complete ballot, identical to the ballots used by voters on Election Day just on a different color paper, as they are tallied separately. Send in a completed application for your absentee ballot as soon as possible or drop it off in the Official Ballot Drop Box before Election Day and your absentee ballot will be mailed out to you. If you can come to the town hall, you can complete the process in person beginning on Oct. 6. Any ballots received by the town clerk after 8 p.m. on Nov. 7 will not be counted.

In Person Registration Deadline

The Granby Registrar of Voters will hold a special all day voter registration session on Oct. 31 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at their town hall offices. Residents are encouraged to stop in or call to verify their voter registration. You can also check your voter registration online using the Secretary of State’s website: dir.ct.gov/sots/ lookup.aspx

Poll workers are needed

With the passage of early voting/election day registration, we are going to need help with computer data entry. The Registrars will hold EDR data entry classes for workers, new and old, answer questions about the new process coming for 2024 and sign-up workers for 2024. The Registrar’s office is compiling an email list of poll workers. Poll workers can be volunteers or paid. Volunteer poll workers must be at least 16 years old and can choose to volunteer for a few hours, as desired to fit their schedules. If you would like to be added to the list, please email the registrars at: registrarofvoters@granby-ct.gov Moderator training and pollworker training will be in October. Pollworker training is required to serve. For more information or to attend an EDR class please contact the Registrars at: registrarofvoters@granby-ct.gov

Voter Registration

Voter registration is a public record, and we make it easy to confirm your voter registration 24/7. From the Town of Granby website there is a link to the Secretary of the State’s website’s online voter registration look-up tool: dir.ct.gov/ sots/LookUp.aspx

There is also a link to Online Voter Registration, available 24/7 to enroll, or to make name, party or address changes to an existing voter registration: voterregistration.ct.gov/OLVR/welcome.do

Posted office hours for the Registrar’s office are Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Paper voter registration forms are also available at town halls, libraries, DMV offices and online at the Secretary of State’s website: sots.ct.gov

Questions?

Please feel free to contact the registrars, Laura Wolfe and Paul Willis, at 860-844-5322, registrarofvoters@granby-ct.gov or lwolfe@ granby-ct.gov and pwillis@granby-ct.gov

Stony Hill Village celebrates 50+ years

By Dave Roberts

On Sept. 6, Stony Hill Village celebrated its 50+ year anniversary with attendees including residents, State Representative Mark Anderson, First Selectman Mark Fiorentino, Selectmen Kelly Rome and Dr. Fred Moffa, former Board Chair Ted Christensen, and many community members.

Board Vice Chair Lewis McIntyre was

honored for more than 22 years of service.

Board Treasurer Sandy Salazar also was honored for her extensive service and was presented with a large mum, After the social, the board of directors met to complete business, including reelecting Bill Percival as president, Dave Roberts as vice president, and voting for new board members Kim Becker and Raine Pedersen.

Foxfield F.A.R.M. donates poultry

By Susan Patricelli Regan

Foxfield F.A.R.M. is a non-profit organization that provides an equestrian and farm oriented instructional program for veterans and first responders who suffer from PTSD. Susan and her husband, Bill, have donated duck eggs to the Community Kitchen for the past three years and have recently added black star chicken eggs. This year they raised six white breasted turkeys and donated four of the birds, butchered by Sabas of Bloomfield, to the Community Kitchen. The dressed turkeys ranged from 21-30 lbs.

For further information, contact Foxfield F.A.R.M. via its website: foxfieldrecoverymission.org

Sandy Flagg’s Community Kitchen has been operating for 15 years with volunteers who assist in providing

Foxfield F.A.R.M. Submitted photo free dinners in a companionable atmosphere. Dinners are served at 5 p.m. every Wednesday at the South Campus of the Granby Congregational Church, 242 Salmon Brook Street.

Susan Regan

Board President Bill Percival leads group of interested community leaders on tour of Stony Hill Village. Submitted photo

Sandy Flagg, (l.) , Community Kitchen director, and

of

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 test run it monthly and have the appropriate fuel on hand. Service your furnace. Seal windows and doors to minimize drafts. Confirm snow removal contracts.

The following programs are available should you need help with energy costs. Social Services may assist with applications by appointment.

Energy Assistance

Connecticut Energy Assistance Program

(CEAP): 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 ($79,910 for a family of four in 2023). Be advised that benefit levels are lower than last year due to less allocated state funding. Call Granby Social Services at 860-844-5350 to schedule an intake appointment or apply online at: portal.ct.gov/heatinghelp/

Eversource Assistance Programs: Winter protection for income eligible households prevents shutoff between Nov. 1 and May 1. Call Eversource at 800-286-2828 or visit Eversource. com/BillHelp.

Operation Fuel: Emergency energy assistance for heating expenses for households who are in crisis and who meet program guidelines with incomes at or below 100 percent of the State Median Income guidelines. Visit operationfuel. org/about/how-we-help/

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

Resources and Services

Affordable Connectivity Plan: The Afford-

able Connectivity Program is a U.S. government program run by the Federal Communications Commission to help low-income 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 are available through the Child Welfare Information Gateway at cwig@communications.childwelfare. gov

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

Mental Health and Emergencies: If you are experiencing a true medical emergency or crisis, please call 911 or proceed to your nearest emergency room. You can also access mobile crisis services by dialing 211.

Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273- 8255

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

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

Food Resources

Granby Food Pantry: Located at 248 Salmon Brook Street, open Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. to Noon and Thursdays, 2 to 3:30 p.m. Before using the food pantry, you must qualify with the Town of Granby Social Services Department. An appointment is necessary; call 860-8445350 to schedule.

Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen: Free meal available as family-style sit down service or drive-up to pick-up service every Wednesday, 3–5:30 p.m. at Granby Congregational Church, South Campus, 242 Salmon Brook St. The meal is free, but an offering is always welcome.

Mobile FoodShare: Every other Tuesday, 1:30–2 p.m. Call for 2023 dates. Please park behind Granby Congregational Church and the Visiting Nurses building only. Remember to bring your own bags. For more locations or weather-related cancellations visit ctfoodbank.

org/get-help/connecticut-food-banks-mobilepantry-schedule/

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

Open Cupboard Pantry at Granby Congregational Church: Located at North Campus, 219 North Granby Road. Distributions are on Fridays, 3–4 p.m. These packs contain nutritious non-perishable food items. Please enter the church parking lot via north entrance on Stratton Road. Call 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.

Tutorial on the DME loaner closet

By Duncan Rowles

The Granby Senior Center manages a Durable Medical Equipment (DME)

loaner closet at Holcomb Farm. Citizens of Granby and surrounding towns can borrow, at no cost and for an indefinite period, equipment as needed for themselves and their families.

The DME closet also provides a place to recycle gently used medical equipment when an individual is no longer in need. The bulk of the equipment is donated by individuals or families who no longer have a need for equipment that they have purchased.

Staffed by a dedicated all-volunteer team, the DME closet does not have regular hours, it is open by appointment only. Once the request has been made, please allow volunteers 24 to 48 hours to respond.

Items usually available, but not limited to, are standard and front wheel walkers, rollator walkers, knee walkers

(scooters), wheelchairs, shower chairs and benches, tub transfer benches, commodes, raised toilet seats, canes and bed rails. The DME closet cannot accept or loan out any equipment that is customized, motorized or is operated with electricity.

The process to utilize the DME loan closet is:

Call the Senior Center at 860-8445350 and inform them of your need.

The Senior Center emails the volunteer coordinator with the request.

The volunteer coordinator reviews the request and reaches out to the group of volunteers to see who is available to take on that specific request.

The volunteer and the requestor agree upon a date and time to meet at the DME loaner closet to complete the loan. It’s that simple!

Anyone wishing to become a volunteer should contact the Senior Center, 860-844-5350.

2023 DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES FOR GRANBY

BOARD OF SELECTMEN

Our Democratic candidates are skilled professionals dedicated to preserving our small town feel, strengthening our schools, listening, and working together on sustainable solutions for Granby’s long-term success.

MONICA LOGAN

HEATHER LOMBARDO

LIZ HARMON BARLOW

BOB

CHINNI

LYNN GUELZOW DAVE ROBERTS

SUZANNE YUCHA

Out of Town Jack O’ Lanterns at Old New-Gate

This October, the mine at Old NewGate Prison and Copper Mine in East Granby will be illuminated by over 300 professionally carved Jack O’ Lanterns. From 1773 to 1827 the abandoned mine, often referred to as the dungeon, was used to house incarcerated men in total darkness.

“This autumn, we are bringing ‘Light into the Dungeon’ to celebrate the season, while also acknowledging NewGate’s dark past,” said Morgan Bengel, museum curator.

Visitors can purchase advanced tickets to descend into the mine from Sept. 29 through Oct. 29, for selfguided exploration of the decorated tunnels. Tickets are limited and can be

purchased at tinyurl.com/JackLanternTickets

The mine consists of a 100-yard loop, with uneven footing, and some low tunnels (4 feet high). Strollers, wheelchairs, walkers and similar devices are not permitted in the mine; closed-toed shoes are strongly recommended. At 52 degrees, the mine is consistently cold and wet, giving visitors a truly authentic experience.

Tickets also include admission to the above-ground prison yard, which contains ruins, cells and special exhibits. Prior to or following their mine experience, visitors will be able to explore all that Old New-Gate has to offer.

Live Classical Chamber Music

On Thursday, Oct. 12, starting at 10 a.m., the Musical Club of Hartford presents a program of live classical music. Free to club members and students, the concert is open to the public ($5 admission) and will include the following performances by musical club members:

Sonata in G minor, Opus 3, No. 4 by Luigi Merci for bassoon (Fred Fenn) and piano (Stacy Cahoon)

La vallée des cloches (“The Valley of Bells”) by Maurice Ravel and L’isle joyeuse (“The Joyful Island”) by Claude Debussy, for solo piano (Soohyung Yoo)

Trio 2 in C Minor, Opus 66 by Felix Mendelssohn for violin (Lisa Kugelman), cello (Fran Bard) and piano (Stacy Cahoon).

On Thursday, Oct. 19, starting at 10 a.m., the Musical Club of Hartford’s Jolidon Concert Series presents acclaimed pianist Henry Kramer in recital, performing Schubert’s Piano Sonata in A Major, D. 664; The Mendelssohn (both Fanny and Felix) Songs Without Words, and Ravel’s Tombeau de Couperin. Free to club members and students, the concert is open to the public ($10 admission).

Both programs will be held in the spacious sanctuary of Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2080 Boulevard, West Hartford.

Masks are optional. Ample free offstreet parking and wheelchair access are available.

Holly Boutique Craft Fair

The 29th Annual Holly Boutique Craft Fair and Luncheon will be held Oct. 19, 20 and 21 at the North Canton Community United Methodist Church Hall, Route 179 and 3, Case St. in North Canton.

Come see a wonderful selection of quality crafts made by more than 30 local juried artisans just in time for holi-

Book Festival

The Connecticut Authors and Publishers Association (CAPA) will hold its second-annual book festival on Saturday, Oct. 7, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the West Hartford Conference Center. More than 50 authors will exhibit books in genres ranging from literary fiction to children’s books, science fiction and fantasy to memoir and nonfiction, and more. Come and be inspired.

Founded in 1994, CAPA assists, encourages, and inspires emerging and established writers and publishers to reach their goals and expand their knowledge through an open forum for the exchange of information and ideas. For more, see the new website for Connecticut Book Festival

IWWC public hearing continued to Oct. 11

The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission held its second public hearing on the Vessel RE Holdings’ application for a permit in connection with a proposed 48-unit apartment building at 37 Hartford Avenue on Sept. 13.

The first hearing was continued after it ran late with often contentious public input. Since that meeting, the Farmington Valley Health District has notified the Department of Health that a reserve area is required and must be added to the septic system design before it will approve the plan. The Department of Health retracted its approval of the plan until revised plans have been approved by the FVHD. The applicant requested that the hearing be continued to the IWWC’s next regular meeting in October.

A revised plan was presented to the commission that eliminates a double outfall and combines stormwater discharge to the right rear of the property and includes regrading the existing farm road. Further discussion included stormwater system maintenance, snow removal and nitrogen and phosphorus analysis the developer does not feel is needed. IWWC Agent Bednaz will review case law to determine if it can be required for this project.

day gift giving. Cash or check only, no credit or debit cards.

The fair hours are: Thursday, Oct. 19, 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Friday, Oct. 20, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 21, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Lunch and refreshments will be served Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Reinhard Maier of 138 Day Street had questions regarding the submission of stamped and signed drawings, drainage calculations in conjunction with the proposed stormwater management system, and Errors & Omissions Insurance.

Maureen Eberly of 37 Silkey Road expressed concerns regarding increased pedestrian traffic and contamination. She read for the record a letter from the Farmington River

Watershed Association, Inc. and requested that the application be denied.

Robert Flanigan of 24 Woodcliff Drive requested that a nitrogen and phosphorus analysis be conducted, and said the proposed project is too large for the site.

Glen Ballard of 289 Granville Road had questions regarding state statute and whether feasible and prudent alternatives were presented.

Jay (undisclosed address and last name) stated that the commission needs to consider potential impacts to the endangered species present and referenced sewer capacity and pollutants from fresh pavement.

Michael Fusick of 55 Northwoods Road, works for the MDC and expressed concerns with the amount of impervious surface proposed and the velocity of water as it leaves the proposed outfall. He also discussed potential issues with the proposed maintenance of the stormwater management system, as seen in his line of work.

Toni Flanigan of 24 Woodcliff Drive also requested that a nitrogen and phosphorus analysis be conducted and expressed concerns regarding environmental impacts.

Attorney Hollister of Hinckley Allen stated that the applicant’s team will prepare a formal response to public comment, as well as address additional staff comments in advance of the next meeting.

The commission voted 6-0-0 to continue the public hearing to the Oct. 11, regular meeting. Town board minutes for this and other meetings are available at granby-ct.gov/AgendaCenter.

In Town Focus

Senior Fall Social

The Granby Women’s and Men’s Breakfast Groups will join for a lunch social on Friday, Oct. 6, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the North Barn Pavilion at Holcomb Farm. Soup and sandwiches are on the menu. Call 860-844-5352 by Sept. 29 to register.

Men’s Breakfast

The Granby Men’s Breakfast will enjoy a hot breakfast at the Granby Senior Center on Friday, Oct. 13. The speaker will be Dr. Jason Hawley, Connecticut State Wildlife Biologist and PhD student at the University of Connecticut, presenting the Connecticut Bobcat Project. Call 860-844-5352 to register. Your early registration helps the team to have a reasonably accurate number of attendees for food orders and table setup.

Arrive between 8 and 8:30 a.m., pay $5, get your badge, find a table, hear announcements and have coffee. Breakfast will be served to you at your table.

The November meeting will be the annual Granby Grunts Robotics program with Dr. Flush, aka Don Rethke.

Trunk or Treat

Trunk-or-Treat is a family-friendly celebration filled with spooky fun sure to delight trick-or-treaters of all ages.

On Sunday, Oct. 29, join other Granby residents between 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. for the annual Trunk-or-Treat celebration at Salmon Brook Park. Free to attend and free to set up your own decorative trunk.

Looking to participate by setting up your own trunk? Register at granbyrec. com today.

Spread the word! We can’t wait to see all of those amazing costumes and wonderfully decorated trunks.

Civic Club

The Granby Civic Club, celebrating its 110th year, will hold its Annual Tea Party on Thursday, Oct. 19, 1 p.m. at the Senior Center. Please bring your favorite teacup and a story to go with it. Guests and visitors always welcome.

Women’s Breakfast

On Wednesday, Oct. 4, the Granby Women’s Breakfast Group will feature Wally Banzhaf’s presentation, “The Incredible Story of a Sea Survivor.” Breakfast will start at 8:30 a.m. followed by the program at 9 a.m. Cost is $5. Call the Granby Senior Center at 860-844-5352 or register online at granby-ct.gov/senior-services to reserve your spot.

SBHS News

The Salmon Brook Historical Society is located at 208 Salmon Brook Street. The website is salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com

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

Museum Store merchandise includes books, maps, mugs, t-shirts, notecards, jigsaw puzzles 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, 9 a.m. to noon. Items can also be viewed on the website. Fall Flea Market is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 14, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the society’s grounds. Please contact Dave at 860-653-3965 for vendor information. Flea Market donations to the Society will be accepted on Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 a.m. to noon through Oct. 12.

Farmington Valley CT Heritage Network is an association of 10 history related organizations located in eight northwest Connecticut towns that work to further the appreciation of the Valley’s rich history by offering tours and programs. Save Sundays, Nov. 5 and 12 for upcoming lectures on immigration. Look for details in the November Drummer and on the FVHN website.

4-H Sign-up

Granby 4-H sign-up night is Wednesday, Oct. 4, 7–8 p.m. at Holcomb Farm Workshop.

Camera Club

The Granby Camera Club will meet on Monday, Oct. 2 at 7 p.m. at the Granby Senior Center. The program will be painting with light. Please bring your camera and tripod—we will be outside photographing the Lost Acres Fire Department’s antique fire truck, LA1. The scavenger hunt words are: farm, old and favorite.

UNICO Comedy Night

The Granby chapter of UNICO will hold its second comedy night on Friday, Nov. 3, 8 p.m. at The Brass Rail Meetinghouse in Southwick. Join UNICO for an unforgettable night of hysterical stand-up and musical comedy featuring comedians, Gary Marino and Mark Riccadonna from Boston.

Funds raised at this event and other UNICO sponsored events are given directly back to the local community. Each year Granby’s chapter of UNICO gives out several scholarships for high school seniors to support furthering their education. They also support the Farmington Valley Food Bank and act as a Secret Santa to many local families in need. As Secret Santa, the chapter not only provides toys to the children, but also gift certificates to the families that can be used for food and clothing.

For more information about the Comedy Night or how to get tickets please email r.savino@cox.net or call 860-416-8941.

The Drummer welcomes announcements of upcoming events sponsored by Granby organizations. Announcements may not exceed 120 words.

@by e-mail: editor@granbydrummer.org

Registrars’ Calendar Review

Wednesday, Oct. 4: Preliminary voter registry session and filing with the town clerk.

Friday, Oct. 6: Absentee ballots are available from the town clerk (for completed applications).

Wednesday, Oct. 18: Public testing of the optical scanner voting machines at 11 a.m. at town hall.

Tuesday, Oct. 31: Deadline to postmark a mail-in registration.

Tuesday, Oct. 31: Last day to register to vote in person.

Tuesday, Oct. 31: Voter registration session at registrars’ office in town hall, 9 a.m.–8 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 1: Filing of certified voter registry list with the town clerk.

Monday, Nov. 6: Last day to register in person for brand new residents, military service and just turned 18 years old. Special office hours, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. at town hall.

Tuesday, Nov. 7: Municipal election. Polls open 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Granby Community Gym, Granby Memorial High School.

Tuesday, Nov. 7: Election Day registration and voting at the registrar’s office at town hall for those who are eligible and need to register before voting only.

GMHS FALL SPORTS SCHEDULE

The GMHS fall sports season is in full swing! Come check out a home game and show your support for our athletes and coaches. And don’t forget to stop by the Snack Shack.

All proceeds benefit the GMHS Athletic Booster Club.

GMHS October home varsity games are as follows:

FOOTBALL

Oct. 6, 6:30 p.m. vs North Branford

Oct. 20, 6:30 p.m. vs Stafford/East

Windsor/Somers*

Oct. 27, 6:30 p.m. vs CREC Coop

FIELD HOCKEY

Oct. 12, 6:45 p.m. vs Hall

Oct. 17, 5:30 p.m. vs Somers/Rockville

Oct. 21, 12 p.m. vs South Windsor*

Oct. 26, 4 p.m. vs Thomaston

VOLLEYBALL

Oct. 3, 5:30 p.m. vs East Windsor

Oct. 10, 5:30 p.m. vs Suffield

Oct. 11, 5:30 p.m. vs Avon

Oct. 20, 5:30 p.m. vs Northwestern*

Oct. 24, 5:30 p.m. vs Bolton

Oct. 26, 5:30 p.m. vs East Granby

Oct. 27, 5:30 p.m. vs Rocky Hill

BOYS SOCCER

Oct. 3, 3:45 p.m. vs Rockville

Oct. 11, 6:30 p.m. vs Suffield

Oct. 17, 7 p.m. vs East Granby

Oct. 21, 7 p.m. vs East Hampton*

Oct. 23, 3:45 p.m. vs Coginchaug

GIRLS SOCCER

Oct. 6, 3:45 p.m. vs Somers

Oct. 13, 3:30 p.m. vs Canton

Oct. 18, 6:30 p.m. vs Newington

Oct. 20, 3:45 p.m. vs Ellington*

Oct. 21, 5 p.m. vs East Windsor*

*Oct. 20-21 is Homecoming weekend! Check the GMHS Booster Club website frequently for updates on Homecoming events and activities: gmhsboosters.com

The full schedule for all home games can be found using the QR code below. Note that game times and dates are subject to change. Good luck to all of our fall teams! GO BEARS!

October Reflections

Month of my Birthday

Month of the leaves

Childhood memories—

Gathering hickory nuts and chestnuts— the latter burnished brown— the color of my hair

Walking along the sidewalk

Making a hopscotch game

Drawn with a piece of coal

Walking to church

The bells ringing— Hurrying, don’t want to be late

Wearing my Sunday hat and white gloves

Friends and family of my childhood gone now

Soon it will be my turn

Hoping I’m remembered as someone who saw the Beauty of this world, and cared about others

—Bernadette R. Gentry

Granby songwriter gives a twist to Connecticut folklore

By Peter Marotto

Jeff Blaney has done it again with his third American Folk Opera album, The Devil’s Hopyard. Taking place during Halloween in a fictitious modern-day Connecticut small town, we enter the world of Michael and his son, Jason, two years after the tragic loss of Jason’s

Jeff Blaney

mom. A struggling widower, Michael is visited by the ghost of his late wife who offers him forgiveness and a warning to protect their son.

The listener is taken on a journey akin to those found in works by Ray Bradbury or Stephen King. The Devil’s Hopyard is at once easily relatable while leaving the listener with eerie, scary unanswered questions. Reminiscent of old ghost stories and Gen X horror movies, The Devil’s Hopyard is sure to become a classic autumn tale for generations to come. The album comes out on all music platforms on Friday the 13th (of October).

Community Serve Day planned at Stony Hill Village

By Dave Roberts

On Saturday, Oct. 7, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon, the Stony Hill Village Board of Directors will host a Community Serve Day at the village, to help spruce up the grounds of this 50+ year old affordable housing community and assist residents on various tasks as needed.

For those that don’t know, Stony Hill Village, located in the heart of Granby, is composed of 49 units of federally financed elderly and disabled housing (39 one-bedroom units, 10 large efficiencies) built on former corn fields with its primary funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Volunteers are asked to meet in the Stony Hill Village Community Room near the entrance to the property at 9 a.m. to learn about its history, enjoy light refreshments, and consider which of many suggested tasks they might want to help with. Volunteers are welcome to help as much or as little as they are able. There will be something for everyone to do.

Volunteer projects might include touching up the entrance sign, working on flower gardens, trimming bushes, removing dead branches, raking leaves, or

helping residents change a light bulb or other special need. Or come and chat with residents, serve donuts and coffee, and learn more about the community. Light refreshments will be provided throughout the event by residents and volunteers.

Volunteers are asked to bring yard tools such as rakes, brooms, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, tarps, and other tools they think might be needed.

Northwestern Connecticut Cyber Lions Club is providing event insurance, donated by Lions Clubs International. Groups already signed on include the Granby Community Fund, Granby Conservation Commission, Granby Men’s Breakfast Group, Northwestern Connecticut Cyber Lions Club, Stony Hill Residents Association and Board of Directors, and Valley Brook Community Church.

Students needing a Community Service Certificate for their volunteer work should contact Dave Roberts prior to the event, at Granbydavidroberts@gmail. com

For more information on Stony Hill Village or the Community Serve Day, please contact Dave Roberts at either Granbydavidroberts@gmail.com or 860-469-5067.

What is beer?

By Scott Riley

Beer is the third most popular beverage in the world. Right behind water, the most popular beverage, and tea, which comes in second. I assume tea’s more popular than beer because beer only contains between 88 percent and 97 percent water while tea is closer to 99.5 percent water, the most popular beverage.

There may have been a time when beer was the most popular beverage. During the Middle Ages many diseases were spread by contaminated drinking water. Back then beer was known as a nutritious alternative to water. As early as 7,000 BCE households routinely brewed beer. The Mayflower’s crew basically dumped the Pilgrims off on Plymouth Rock when their beer supply was nearly “spent.” The rise in popularity of America’s Craft Beer has been attributed to 1978 when Jimmy Carter signed H.R 1337, an act authorizing the home production of beer and wine without federal taxation.

So much for a brief history of beer—back to what beer is! The main components of beer are water (the world’s most popular beverage), ethyl alcohol (the intoxicating part), carbohydrates, fructose, sucrose, glucose, maltose, polysaccharides, pectin, polypeptides, amino acids, vitamins,

minerals, humulones and lupulones. There are many other waste products that yeasts synthesize while they are glycolyzing maltose and other simple sugars to create ethyl alcohol and carbon dioxide. German chemists, go figure, have identified over 7,700 different chemicals in beers.

To make beer, grains used as malts contribute many compounds through a water extraction process called mashing. Among other chemicals, calcium and sulfates in water used in this process have tremendous effects on the flavor of the resulting beer. The temperature of the mash, usually between 140°F and 160°F, also affects how enzymes help convert carbohydrates to sugars, which also has a large effect on the flavor and what the yeasts metabolize. Hops are another ingredient that add a lot of flavor to most modern beers. These contribute the humulones and lupulones that add the bitterness, many of the fruity or juicy flavors and much of the aromas you enjoy in your beer.

If you have never had a beer, I encourage you to visit a local brew pub or brewery and try a beer. You can talk to your local brewer while you’re there and see what other fascinating things go into that beer. Did you know that the oldest family farm in America, close to Granby, malts grains for making beers?

McLean seeks Meals on Wheels drivers

McLean’s Meals on Wheels program is seeking additional volunteer drivers for weekday routes in Avon, Granby, East Granby, Canton, and Simsbury.

Since its inception in 1978, McLean’s Meals on Wheels program has provided daily support for residents who have difficulty preparing meals due to disability, illness, or a recent surgery. Each delivery consists of a complete hot meal, a cold meal, drinks, and dessert items. The program currently serves approximately 75 individuals. Volunteer drivers not only deliver nutritious meals to home bound seniors, they also provide some companionship

and a safety check. Often, the Meals on Wheels delivery person is the recipient’s sole visitor for the day. “The need is great, and the rewards are real,” notes Karen Shaw, coordinator of the McLean Meals on Wheels program. Becoming a McLean Meals on Wheels volunteer driver requires a two-hour commitment once or twice a month, and access to a car. The meal pick-up points are McLean’s campus in Simsbury and/or the Valley Baptist Church in Avon.

For more information about volunteering with Meals on Wheels, please contact Karen Shaw at 860-658-3980.

Submitted photo

Granby Artists Open Studios Tour

October 14 & 15

Granby Artists Open Studios Tour invites visitors to artist’s studios to meet the artists, watch demonstrations, and find art and gifts. The tour map showing all different artists’ locations is inserted in this Granby Drummer issue. Visitors can also read more detailed information and download map from granbyartists. org

The following exhibiting artists are participating in the tour:

At Silver Street Glass, Mark Gottlieb and friends will demonstrate a variety of glass blowing techniques from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both tour days and Annukka Ritalahti will demonstrate flame-working.

Susan Canavan will be back at Lost Acres Vineyard showing her crepe paper botanicals. She will have a variety of paper flowers, foliage, and mushrooms for sale and will be showing how she constructs these paper sculptures.

Douglas N. Williams is an oil painter who enjoys painting outdoors (en plein air). His subjects include local views, New England scenes, and travel images from Europe and Africa.

Kathy Ungerleider is excited to be participating in Open Studio for the first time. She will be displaying her handcrafted resin 3-D sea shell/sea glass artwork and unique decoupage oyster shell trinket dishes at Lost Acres Vineyard. She will be available to explain her process throughout both days.

Sally Sargent-Markey has watercolor paintings, handmade soft animals, fimo jewelry and small decorative items.

Avis Cherichetti and Linda Yurasevecz will both display their pottery art at Cherichetti’s studio, Honey Hill Pottery. This year is a “Blue Moon” birthday year for Cherichetti therefore expect to find moon motifs as well as her birds appearing in various ways in her Raku and Stoneware ceramics.

Yurasevecz will be showing new work including carved bowls (Mishima—a Japanese method) and tapas platters. High school students and Cherichetti will be making bowls for the Empty Bowls event at Granby Memorial High School next spring. Demos start at 10 a.m. both days.

Alex Anisimov will be in his gallery at 2 Park Place. Check out his new art work! Anisimov will gladly answer questions about art, artists, philosophy of life and the creative process.

Don Shaw Jr., participating in the Open Studios Tour for the first time, will display photographs featuring birds, butterflies, blossoms, barns, and landscapes.

Carolyn Dittes is excited about participating in her second Open Studio, displaying functional pottery including mugs, utensil holders, bowls, and platters.

Drumroll

Lori Blackburn has been appointed Membership Administrator for the Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce. Blackburn has been a dedicated community leader in Granby for over 20 years, serving as program coordinator for the Granby Senior Center, board member of the Granby Chamber of Commerce and member of the Commission on Aging.

Jane Furca, another first-time Open Studio participant, will be displaying wheel-thrown and slab-built stoneware pottery. She will have several in-process pieces to demonstrate how pottery goes from raw clay to finished product.

Laura Eden will have some new ocean watercolors and prints of her first-ever fish painting, a striped bass!

George Mattingly is drawn to the natural world, and that has been the focus of his paintings to date. New way of life—learn and paint, paint and learn— reveals that there is still much more ground to cover.

Gary Ebersole will have charcoal and pen and ink drawings. His work focuses on portraits of horses. Mark your calendars for Dec. 2

Granby Artists Association will host its popular Annual Holiday Gift Show on Saturday, Dec. 2, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop local and support your favorite artists at the new venue, Pilgrim Covenant Church, 605 Salmon Brook Street, Granby. This is a one-day event and we look forward to seeing you there. Check the website and the November Drummer for more details.

Doug Williams doing a plein air painting.

Laura Eden at work in her studio.

Potters Avis Cherichetti and Linda Yurasevecz pose with their work.

Alex Anisimov with one of his paintings. Submitted photos

Lori Blackburn

Familiar Faces

By Nicole Muller

Who’s Behind the Counter?

Joyce Butterworth and Nick Williams discuss life beyond their jobs at the Granby Post Office

Do you ever wonder about the people you meet as you go about your daily errands? One place where you can be sure to be greeted with a genuine smile is the Granby Post Office, where Nick Williams and Joyce Butterworth are, quite frankly, delighted to see you.

A Sturbridge, Mass., native, Butterworth now lives in Westfield, Mass., with her 19-year-old son Alex, a college student, and her husband Josh Foran, a quality-control specialist.

“When Alex was a toddler, I was a single mom looking for a job with good benefits and a solid salary,” says Butterworth, who, after weighing her best options, decided to apply online for a job

with the United States Postal Service. In 2006, the opening in Granby was the closest to her home in Southwick, Mass.

“The bonus was that 14 years later, I didn’t lose my job because of Covid,” she says.

Being a fan of board games helps Butterworth stay connected to her family back in Sturbridge and to Alex’s father’s family in Westfield. “I didn’t marry Alex’s father, but we remain friends,” she says.

When she has time off from the job, Butterworth loves to travel. “I’ve been to many places, but most recently Josh and I traveled to the MoCCA Fest [Museum of Comics and Cartoon Art] in

Nick Williams (l.) and Joyce Butterworth greet those who stop by the Granby Post Office with their signature smiles.

New York City, an Indie comics and graphic novel festival,” Butterworth explains. As a fan of Drawfee on YouTube, Butterworth attended the festival to meet her favorite artists. “I love to draw people, but oh my goodness, it’s very hard!” she says, adding that she brings her sketchbook with her whenever she travels.

For Alex’s high-school graduation,

mother and son traveled to Ottawa, Canada, to see a Josh Ramsey concert and then drove to Ontario to see Niagara Falls from the Canadian side.

Last summer Butterworth and a friend took a road trip along the famed Route 66, from its starting point in Chicago south through Illinois and Missouri to Kansas. “My friend Sarah had a list of places to stop along the route,” she says, grabbing her camera and thumbing through photos. “Most of them were ‘the world’s largest’ golf club, rocking chair, swizzle spoon, mouse trap. It was kinda crazy and really fun!”

Asked what she likes best about her job at the post office, her anchor when she’s not traveling, Butterworth grins. “The people! I love helping the people,” she says.

And that’s exactly the answer that Nick Williams, who joined Butterworth behind the counter two years ago, gave. “This is my first customer-service job,” Williams says. “My friends didn’t think I’m serious enough, and I didn’t think I’d be good at it, but to my surprise, I am. When I have a random honest conversation with a stranger, I love that.”

Williams, who lives in Windsor, grew up in Granby, graduating from Granby Memorial High School in 2007, after which he followed his college-bound girlfriend to Tucson, Ariz. “I liked the scenery, hiking in the mountains, but I didn’t like the desert,” he says. “I found myself longing for New England.”

Ironically, while living in Tucson, Williams worked for the USPS as a mail handler, sorting mail and loading/ unloading trucks. “I left Tucson because I didn’t like the job at all, and my girlfriend and I were growing apart,” he says. But Williams did not return to New England...yet.

When he called his brother, a sous chef in Austin, Texas, to say he was unhappy, Williams’ brother offered to get him a job if he moved to Austin. “The next day I resigned from the post office and drove 14 hours to Austin,” he says. “I lived for six months in a tent in my brother’s back yard.” Three days later, Williams had a restaurant job and began saving for an apartment.

“I thought I found my niche in Austin,” Williams says. “When Covid came, the restaurant didn’t fire us, but Austin is an expensive city, and the pay checks stopped.” A year earlier, Williams’ brother had bought a home in Monroe, Maine, so Williams drove to Monroe, where he worked in a bakery that exchanged training for someone with a personality and character that fit in with the others. “I love Maine. I had forgotten how much I missed the quiet, but then again, in Austin things stay open past 9 p.m.,” he says with a grin.

Although he spent six years as a baker, Williams doesn’t bake much now. “I’m an artist,” he says. “Any free time I have, you will find me making art. It’s my therapy.”

Williams spends hours online in museum archives, studying art and clipping pieces that intrigue him to create his signature digital pieces, uniquely creative and wildly captivating.

Like Butterworth, Williams does not display his art publicly, nor is it for sale. “I post it on my private Instagram for friends and family,” he says. “It’s what I do for my personal pleasure.”

Who knew?

Photo by Nicole Muller

Moon Cusser Extraordinaire

By C. J. Gibson

You’ve probably driven along Route 10 North to Southwick hundreds of times, but have you ever noticed that we have a real live “Moon Cusser” right here in town? That’s right, in the person of Mark Brady, we have just that. What’s a Moon Cusser? Well, I’ll get to that in a minute.

I stopped into Brady’s kitchen remodeling business out of curiosity, and what I found was a unique place with a Moon Cusser theme and a flair for the pirate spirit that lurks inside many of us!

Brady, owner of Mark Brady Kitchens at 490 Salmon Brook Street, is not your typical kitchen remodeling designer/ contractor. In fact, his place of business bears little resemblance to a kitchen showroom. Over the front door is a sign welcoming you to Moon Cusser’s, and the front yard is a cinder block formation made to resemble a pirate vessel, complete with cannon, yardarm and treasures from the seven seas. The deck of the vessel is made of beach sand, and Brady had hidden buried treasures there for clients, friends, and family to discover.

Inside the front door, Brady introduced me to his theme room, laden with artifacts, wall hangings, lanterns, swords, pirate masks and pirate story books. The floor surface depicts a room-sized map of Cape Cod, including compass references and old-world points of interest. There are countless artifacts from sea bearing vessels, most of which take one back to visions of the high seas, pirate ships, and yes, the time of the Moon Cussers. For a kitchen design and remodeling business showroom, this one just knocked me over.

Brady invited me in to see his office and work areas, which continued

with the theme of his great room, and showed the creative flair with which he has fashioned his business. Even the restroom was completely redone and was immersed in the spirit of the seven seas. There was so much detail in each restoration, that Brady clearly spent an enormous number of hours creating and shaping each detail to perfectly match his imaginative style. He smiled broadly as he showed me each area, and I could see a boyish gleam in his eye as he discussed every detail.

So, what is a Moon Cusser? Well, Brady explained that in the late 1600s, pirates would cripple actual light houses along the Cape Cod coast. They would then light bonfires along the beaches. Sea-going ships with cargoes would mistake the fires for actual light house beams and would run aground. The pirates would make easy work of them, plundering and pillaging the precious

cargos aboard. Of course, this nefarious work was best conducted on dark nights. Therefore, when the moon was shining brightly, the pirates would “cuss the moon” because it ruined their plans for plunder. So, to this day, there are lots of bars and restaurants named Moon Cussers to carry on the raucous spirit of these legendary characters who ruled the coast lines of New England.

Brady, a businessman who has been in the kitchen design and remodeling business since the age of 16, has always been a creative thinker. His office walls are covered with manual scheduling boards, and his shop work areas are organized and ready for action. He is a technical school graduate who has melded construction, design and customer friendly skills into his company, including a heavy influence in the Walt Disney organization’s approach to quality customer service, having attended the Disney institute several years ago. From his early roots in Meriden, he has crafted or remodeled kitchens for customers all over southern New England, landing in Granby about three years ago. He relies heavily on local advertising and of course, references from satisfied customers.

When I asked Brady how he came to create the Moon Cusser-themed showroom he told me that he loves to bring customers into that room, explore design ideas, and have a little fun thinking outside the normal kitchen design box with them. According to Brady, customers relax and enjoy the playfulness of the location, and this facilitates discussions about what kind of kitchen they really want. He said, “I want this place to be like an Easter egg hunt, where people will always have a place to find things and be surprised.”

When the design is settled, Brady takes his customer shopping for the actual fixtures and appliances they will use. These shopping trips add to the fun and Brady has vendors in the local area that understand his business model and invite customers to have fun selecting their individual items to fit Brady’s designs. This is a business model that has worked for Brady for more than 30 years, and the Moon Cusser showroom is the latest spin on finding the right customer and matching them with the right design. You can’t really argue with the unique approach because Brady surely brings a lot of joy to the process.

As an added portrait of this Granby business owner, aside from his love and fascination with pirate lore, Mark Brady is also a very spiritual person. He presently serves as a pastor for the North Canaan Congregational Church and describes his ministry there as a story that unfolds each week in his sermons. Even as we talked, he was preparing to host a five-church revival meeting the following Sunday, a daunting task for anyone, but no doubt something that Brady approached as a labor of love.

My visit to Mark Brady’s Kitchens turned out to be very different than I had pictured in my mind. It started with a tour of a pirate paradise lair, transitioned to a lesson in Moon Cussing, then a short course in kitchen design and remodeling, and finished with a quiet conversation about life in general with a contemplative, thoughtful and creative resident of our town. If you get a chance, swing by Brady’s place and say hello. You might get lucky and find a little treasure there yourself.

Mark Brady, submitted photo

HEALTH NOTES

By the Farmington Valley VNA

By Sharon Gallerani

Gum disease and your heart

How many of us grew up hearing our parents say “brush your teeth” in the morning and evening? We replied we had when we briefly ran the toothbrush over our teeth or sneakily wet the brush without even brushing. But do you know the importance of brushing your teeth?

Dentists, researchers, and healthcare providers have recently begun to examine the link between oral health and overall health. They’ve focused on the relationship between gum disease and heart disease. Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is inflammation of the gums. It can lead to the breakdown of the gums, teeth and bone tissues that hold them in place. Heart disease includes heart attack and stroke. The narrowing or blockage of important blood vessels causes heart disease.

Some recent research studies show an association between gum disease and heart disease. Gum disease may increase the risk of heart disease because inflammation in the gums and bacteria may eventually lead to the narrowing of important arteries. Lowgrade bacterial infection provokes systemic inflammation, damaging arteries around the heart.

Gum disease and oral health may be related to other conditions, such as jaw osteoporosis, respiratory disease, and perhaps a link to some cancers.

Regular visits to your dentist can help with early diagnosis and treatment of gum disease. You should also let your dentist know if you have any symptoms of gum disease, including persistent bad breath, swollen, red gums, tender gums that bleed easily, pain with chewing, highly sensitive or loose teeth or a change in bite.

Just because you have one or several of

these symptoms doesn’t mean you have gum disease. A dentist will review the severity and duration of your symptoms. They will also evaluate your teeth and review your medical history.

You can use many healthy lifestyle habits to maintain good oral hygiene and reduce your risk of gum, heart, and other potential diseases.

Brush your teeth and tongue at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Ask your dentist to demonstrate the correct technique for brushing.

Floss between your teeth and gums at least once per day.

Use mouthwash regularly.

Only use teeth cleaning products with the American Dentist Association’s seal of approval.

Refrain from smoking or chewing tobacco. Drink water that contains fluoride or use fluoride toothpaste.

Eat a diet high in vegetables, high-fiber foods, low-sugar fruits and vegetable-based proteins.

Maintain healthy levels of blood sugar, especially if you have diabetes.

See a dentist twice per year for regular cleanings and checkups.

Be mindful of early signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums and constant bad breath. Let your dentist know if you have any of these symptoms.

Prevention is the key in good oral care. Life-long good habits of thorough twice-daily brushing, once in the morning and once before bed and daily flossing can help prevent serious complications. The time this takes is an investment in your health and wellbeing.

Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention.

By Brian Long, Fire Marshal

The Granby Fire Marshal’s Office and the Lost Acres Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®)—the official sponsor of Fire Prevention WeekTM (FPW). This year’s FPW campaign is, Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention. The campaign works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take when cooking to keep themselves and those around them safe.

According to NFPA, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of cooking fires and deaths.

“Year after year, cooking remains the leading cause of home fires by far, accounting for half (49 percent) of all U.S. home fires,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of outreach and advocacy at NFPA. “These numbers tell us that there is still much work to do when it comes to better educating the public about ways to stay safe when cooking.”

The Fire Marshal’s Office encourages all residents to embrace the 2023 Fire Prevention Week theme, “Cook-

In Memory of . . .

ing safety starts with YOU,” said Brian Long. “A cooking fire can grow quickly. I have seen many homes damaged and people injured by fires that could easily have been prevented.”

Here are some key safety tips to help reduce the risk of a cooking fire.

Watch what you heat. Always keep a close eye on what you are cooking. Set a timer to remind you that you are cooking.

Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. Always keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.

Have a “kid- and pet-free zone” of at least 3 feet (1 meter) around the stove or grill and anywhere else hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

To find out more about FPW programs and activities, please contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at 860-844-5321. For more general information about Fire Prevention Week and cooking safety, visit fpw.org and for fire safety fun for kids, visit sparky.org

Remember working smoke alarms save lives! Test yours today!

Pfiffner, David Matthew, 45, May 30, 2023 Green, Michael Albert, 55, friend of Kellie, June 25 Karaffa, Theresa E. (Blouin), 86, wife of the late Daniel Karaffa, August 8 Alleva, Carl J., 67, husband of Nancy Alleva, August 11 Gallagher, Brenda Sue, 77, wife of the late Edward J. Gallagher, Sr., August 12 LoStimolo, Michelle K. (Demas), 66, wife of Robert LoStimolo, August 12 Burhans, Judith Gilbert, 82, wife of Peter Viets Burhans, August 16 King, Kenneth, 94, husband of the late Marjorie Zima King, August 17 Cahill, Rebecca “Becky”, 55, wife of Lawrence Cahill, August 21 Woodhouse, Craig T., 69, husband of Paula Woodhouse, August 21 Harris, Seth, 93, husband of Beverly (Warren) Harris, August 22 Lamer, Don, 81, husband of Dorothy Ann (Banning) Lamer, August 23 Lambert, Katherine “Kit” (Burr), 95, wife of the late Ward Lambert, August 26 Sheely, Jolanta (Malinowski), 74, wife of Thomas Sheely, August 26 Gill, Rosemarie E., 85, partner of Paula Amazeen, August 28

Murray, Susan Joan, 63, wife of the late Brian Robert Murray, August 28 Alvestad, Deborah Marie, 67, wife of the late Edward Alvestad, August 29 Rafoss, Kenneth, 61, husband of Kristen Joy (Carlson) Rafoss. August 29 Greenwood, Roland Joseph, Jr., 89, husband of Barbara Greenwood, August 30 Carr, Lillian V. (Sheldon), 95, wife of Thomas Carr, Jr., September 11

Fifty years of changes in Granby

By Todd Vibert

As we all endure the construction in the center of town and look forward to seeing the improvements to Granby, I can’t help but think about how much our town has changed.

In 1973, there was not a traffic light in the center of town (hard to imagine, I know) and Petersen Road and Mechanicsville Road were not paved. The only tennis court in town was the one in the center on the town green which today no longer exists. The Loomis Store was still standing, ABC Pizza was one year old, Grand Union had been replaced by G & H, and Flavor Mount was still in existence as was the Granby Florist. The Tilton gravel pit was still operated by Roncari. There was an abundance of tobacco fields in town, such as the ones on Hungary Road and Griffin Road. Where Ahrens Park sits today used to be a farm, where corn was grown that covered acres and acres of land. There were at least three telephone booths in the center of town and it cost a dime to make a local call. In schools, no calculators were used—students used slide rules or pencil and paper to solve math problems.

Granby had seven different gas stations: there was Tanner’s gas station, which is now a Food Bag; the Mobil gas station, now Cumberland Farms; Greci’s had a gas station by Manitook Lake; there was one on the corner of Fern Hollow and Route 10, one at Shaw’s Garage on Route 189, another by Hayes-Huling Funeral Home, and the last stood where the State Line restaurant is now. Ironically, despite all these stations, the national gas shortage caused by the Arab oil embargo of 1973, led to “even” and “odd” days to purchase gas. Pulling up to the pump depended upon whether your license plate ended in an odd number or even number. Gas prices rose from 40 cents to 50 cents a gallon and, to conserve energy, the speed limit nationally was reduced to 55 miles per hour on all highways.

During the 70s, inflation was creeping up. Today, the inflation rate is between three and four percent. In the 70s, the inflation rate was as low as five percent and as high as 12. In fact, in 1980, inflation hit a high of 14 percent. People are complaining mortgages are at seven or

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eight percent now, while 40 years ago some people were pay 18 percent for their mortgage.

Many of the things that were essential to Granby citizens in 1973, like telephone booths, are now obsolete and 50 years later, have been replaced with cell phones. Who knows what changes will be made in another 50 years!

To find out more about changes in this town in the last half century, join the Salmon Brook Historical Society by calling 860-653-9713 or go online at salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com

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.

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. These 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 improper disposal of ashes cause accidental fires. We urge safety when using any appliance. The Granby Building Department is available to answer questions. Please call 860844-5318.

Working smoke alarms and CO detectors save lives! Contact the Fire Marshal if you need assistance testing or installing smoke alarms. The Fire Marshal may be reached at 860-844-5321.

Submitted by Renee Deltenre, Community Development, Building, Fire Marshal and Emergency Management Offices.

Granby center, circa 1973, submitted photo

Parks & Recreation

Kristine Vincent, CPRP, Director of Recreation and Leisure Services

Daphne Shinder, Recreation Supervisor

Terri Ziemnicki, Recreation Supervisor

Jamie Savva, Special Events Coordinator

Telephone: 860-653-8947

Website: GranbyRec.com for more information and to register for all programs.

PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS

Granby Nature Preschool: This farm and nature preschool for 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds is based at Holcomb Farm in West Granby. Offering a 5-day program for morning, afternoon or full day, except Fridays which are half day, with visits to or visitors from local farms and nature trails. Some part of every day is spent outdoors except in extreme weather. Offers rolling enrollment for new students including children who turn 3 after school begins.

Jumpbunch Little Jumpers (18 months to 3 years): Fridays, 9:30–10 a.m. at the Gathering Room at Salmon Brook Park. Classes open and close with obstacle courses and creatively scripted songs using ribbon wands, stretch bands, scarves, rhythm sticks, bubbles and maracas and feature a different sport or fitness activity each week. Please have your child wear athletic clothes, sneakers and bring a water bottle. Caregiver must remain with their child.

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Basketball, grades K–8: Both local play and travel teams available. See website for details and to register.

Soccer: Recreational and travel soccer league registration is open. See website for details and to register.

SafeSitter Babysitting Class, grades 6–8: Saturday, Oct. 28, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. at the Gathering Room at Salmon Brook Park. Designed to prepare students to be safe when they’re home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting. The instructor-led class is filled with fun games, role-playing exercises and practice of rescue skills like choking rescue and CPR. Please bring a lunch, refrigeration is available. This class does not include a certificate for CPR, but CPR will be taught.

McArdle School of Irish Dance, ages 5–16: Tuesdays, 5–6 p.m. at the Gathering Room at Salmon Brook Park. Learn traditional and contemporary Irish Step Dancing, ceili dancing, and group figures. Classes are taught by Jack McArdle T.C.R.G. who has over 35 years of experience. Please wear comfortable street shoes that tie and street clothes allowing feet and knees to be seen.

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS

After School Childcare at Kelly and Wells: Monday–Friday, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Held at Kelly Lane School for children in grades K-5. Kelly Lane students will be dismissed from their classrooms after school and brought directly to the cafeteria and Wells Road students will be bussed over. The program director is Melissa Young, current media teaching assistant at Kelly Lane School.

After School Art Class at Wells Road: Mondays, thru Nov. 20, 3:20–4:20 p.m. Each week, kids will learn about a different artist or type of art and use that as inspiration for their own artworks. All supplies are included.

After School Fall Field Hockey Clinic at Wells Road: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3:40–4:40 p.m. Develop fundamental skills with drills and scrimmages designed to teach stick handling, passing, receiving, dribbling and basic game play. Coached by Mrs. Laflamme. Held outside, but will go in the gym for inclement weather.

After School Fit and Fun Running Club at Wells Road: Tuesdays, 3:30–4:30 p.m. This is a chance for any 3rd–5th graders to improve their fitness and learn the basics of running. Please make sure your child is prepared to run outdoors, wearing proper clothing, sneakers and has a water bottle. This program will be held outside on the grounds of the school and/or inside in the gym.

Food Explorers, Fall Desserts at Wells Road: Tuesdays, 3:30–4:30 p.m. Each week make a new recipe focused on fall flavors and ingredients. All recipes are nut free.

After School Mondays PE Games with Mr. Migneault: Mondays, 3:40–4:40 p.m. at Wells Road. Students will be active and have fun participating in the games and activities you would find in a Wells Road PE Class.

After School Tchouk Ball with Mr. Migneault: Thursdays, 3:40–4:40 p.m. at Wells Road. Tchouk Ball is a fast paced, moving and passing game with teams and two rebound nets. Teams of 6-8 players try and move the ball close to the net and score points by bouncing the ball off the net so it hits the ground.

After School Mondays PE Games with Mr. Norton: Mondays, 3:30–4:30 p.m. at Kelly Lane. Students will be active and have fun participating in such PE activities as capture the flag, climbing wall, tag games, floor hockey, kickball and basketball. All equipment will be provided. Child needs to bring own water bottle. Please wear sneakers and comfortable clothes to play in.

After School Tuesdays Rock Wall Program with Mr. Norton: Tuesdays, 3:30–4:30 p.m. at Kelly Lane. The essential skills, techniques, and important safety information will be taught. Stu-

dents will learn various ways to climb a rock wall while improving their muscular strength, endurance and balance.

After School Mad Science: Wednesdays, 3:30–4:30 p.m. at Kelly Lane and Thursdays, 3:30–4:30 p.m. at Wells Road. Learn about the tools scientists use in their laboratories, as well as atoms, molecules and reactions, acids and bases, fluorescence and phosphorescence. Continue the science at home with fun labware take-homes and experiments.

After School Art-ventures for Kids: Fridays, Oct. 20–Jan 5, 3:30–4:30 p.m. at Kelly Lane. Children take an imaginary tour through the world’s greatest art museums, inspiring creativity through exposure to the FUN-damentals of artist’s tools, techniques, and art forms, many inspired by the masters. But don’t just admire these great worksdecorate your home with masterpieces of your own!

Spread Your Wings and Roar ART-ventures: Wednesdays, Oct. 18–Dec. 20 at 3:30-4:30 p.m. at Wells Road. This art-rageous program is truly like a trip to the zoo. Art-explorers experience painting, drawing, sculpting, fabric design, decoupage, collage, and more, bringing home exciting handmade souvenirs each week.

Food Explorers, Brunch Club and Holiday Desserts (Grades 3-6): Thursdays, Oct. 26–Nov. 16, 4–6 p.m. at Holcomb Farm. Each week children will create a recipe from our new Brunch Club menu along with a holiday-themed dessert recipe. This class will provide dinner and a snack. All recipes are nut free but do contain eggs and/ or dairy.

ADULT PROGRAMS

Basketball, Fall Adult Rec Program: Tuesdays and Thursdays, thru Dec. 21, 7–9 p.m. at the high school community gym. Granby residents can pay $75 for the entire session (includes both nights) or pay a $5 drop-in fee per night. Non-residents drop-in fee is $10 per night.

Pickleball: Adult Evenings Beginner/Intermediate Program: Instructor Kim Chamberlain will teach all of the skills and game rules during a 6-week program, and set up games each week with rotating partners. Paddles and balls are provided, but you can also bring your own equipment. Please bring your own water bottle. See website for dates and times.

Pawsitive Steps Dog Training: Beginner classes on Thursdays, Intermediate classes on Mondays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at the Gathering Room at Salmon Brook Park. Join certified dog trainer Kim Michalewicz for this introductory 7-week course to learn how to effectively communicate with your best friend. Open to all dogs. Please contact Kim with any questions, 860-614-6625 or kim_michalewicz@hotmail.com

TAZ Fitness Challenge: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8–8:55 a.m. at the Gathering Room at Salmon Brook Park. Join Terri Ziemnicki for this high energy, low impact fitness class which includes a full body cardiovascular, interval and strength training workout. Please bring your weights, exercise mat and water bottle.

TAZ Low Impact Fitness Class: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9–9:55 a.m. at the Gathering Room at Salmon Brook Park. Join Terri Ziemnicki for this easy-to-follow low impact class including cardiovascular and strength training exercises to fun and motivating music. Balance and stretching exercises are incorporated in each workout. Please bring your weights, exercise mat and water bottle.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Howl-O-Ween Dog Festival: Oct. 7 and 8, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. at Salmon Brook Park. Food trucks, crafters, vendors, music, dog contests, kid’s activities and trick-or-treating.

Trunk-or-Treat Halloween Party: Oct. 29, 1:30–3 p.m. at Salmon Brook Park. Free entry. Please pre-register your trunk.

Browse & Borrow

ADULT PROGRAMS

Traditional New England Cider Making: Thursday, Oct. 5, 6:30–7:30 p.m. The beverage we know today as apple cider is not the same cider produced in the 18th and 19th centuries. Learn why, and hear about the mills, machinery, and products of New England’s cider making tradition from historian Dennis D. Picard. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries and Salmon Brook Historical Society. Crafters Café, Ginkgo Branch: Wednesday, Oct. 11, 6–7:30 p.m. Celebrate one of the oldest living tree species in nature with paper artist Sue Canavan. Learn to make a realistic-looking crepe paper ginkgo branch. All materials provided. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Lifestyle Medicine, Brain Health: Thursday, Oct. 12, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Preventing or slowing cognitive decline through lifestyle changes is key to preserving brain health. Learn more about a holistic approach to wellness from Kathleen Olchowski, RN. This is the second lecture in the Lifestyle Medicine program series. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Monday Movie Matinee, 80 for Brady: Monday, Oct. 16, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Lily Tomlin, Rita Moreno, Jane Fonda and Sally Field portray four best friends who take a life-changing trip to the Super Bowl. Chaos ensues when they contrive to meet their football hero, Tom Brady. Based on a true story. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

The Films of Alfred Hitchcock, via Zoom: Wednesday, Oct. 18, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Alfred Hitchcock may be the most famous film director who ever lived. For five decades, first in England, then in Hollywood, he made 54 films, including classics such as The Thirty-Nine Steps, Rebecca, Notorious, Rear Window, North by Northwest, Vertigo, and Psycho. Through dozens of film clips, Brian G. Rose examines the extraordinary creativity of the iconic filmmaker and “Master of suspense.” Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Stop The Bleed: Saturday, Oct. 21, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Learn to take life-saving measures in an emergency situation. Kate Coupe, Granby Ambulance Association Chief of Service, and other medical professionals bring a national awareness campaign to Granby. Adults and teens are invited, there is no fee. Space is limited. Sponsored by Granby Public Library and Granby Ambulance Association.

Passion for Papercraft, Autumn Paper Sculpture: Monday, Oct. 23, 1–2:30 p.m. Create colorful paper sculptures that capture the beauty of the harvest season in this workshop inspired by the artwork of David Stark Design and Production. All materials provided. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Friends of Holcomb Farm Celebrate 30 Years: Thursday, Oct. 26, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Share in the excitement as the Friends of Hol-

GRANBY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM

granby-ct.gov/157/Library

860-844-5275

GranbyLibrary@granby-ct.gov

Library Hours, Main Branch

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

Tuesday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Library Hours, Cossitt Branch

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

Granby Libraries will be closed on Monday, Oct. 9, in observance of Columbus Day.

Unless noted, programs are free and are at the Main Branch. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED FOR ALL PROGRAMS. To register, visit the library’s website (granby-ct.gov/Library) and click on Library Calendar, or call the library at 860-844-5275.

To learn more about upcoming programs, sign up for the library’s monthly eNewsletter.

comb Farm celebrate 30 years as stewards of this 300+ acre West Granby gem. Learn the history of the farm and all it offers today. View highlights of Holcomb Farm on display at the Library throughout October. Sponsored by Granby Public Library and The Friends of Holcomb Farm.

Aaron Draper Shattuck, Granby Artist and Inventor: Sunday, Oct. 29, 2–3 p.m. at Granby Senior/Youth Services Center, Community Room. David Kimball, Stagecoach Gallery, offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and work of Granby’s own Aaron Draper Shattuck. Be sure to see the display of original artwork on loan from private collections. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries, Granby Artists Association, and Salmon Brook Historical Society.

BOOK DISCUSSIONS

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

Something About the Author Book Club: Monday, Oct. 2, 1:30–2:30 p.m. The book club will read and discuss Pachinko by Min Jin Lee. A story of love, sacrifice, ambition, and loyalty, this dramatic saga will resonate down through the generations. Leading the discussion is John Rusnock.

Sci/Fi Fantasy Book Club: Wednesday, Oct. 25, 6–7 p.m. The book club will read and discuss Dead Silence, by S.A. Barnes. The novel follows a small salvage ship crew who find and explore a luxury space-liner that vanished on its maiden voyage. A ghost ship. A salvage crew.

Unspeakable horrors. Leading the discussion is Jim Gorman.

Millennials Read: Wednesday, Oct. 4, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at Hooker Brewery. Join readers in their 20s, 30s, and 40s to talk about current book picks. You do not need to be reading anything to participate. A partnership between Bloomfield, Simsbury, and Granby libraries and open to all. Hooker Brewery is at 16 Tobey Rd, Bloomfield. Participants will be responsible for their own food and drink purchases. If special accommodations are required, please contact the library at least one week prior to the event.

TEEN PROGRAMS

Join Our New Teen Advisory Board: Monday, Oct. 30, 6–7 p.m. Pizza served! Be a part of the new Teen Advisory Board for a fun and exciting way to help plan teen library programs, tell us what kind of books, movies and music teens want and gain experience and credit towards community service hours. TAB members also get to volunteer at the library.

Teen Mondays, Felted Pumpkins: Monday, Oct. 23, 3:30–5 p.m. For grades 6–12. Learn how to needle felt wool and create your own felted pumpkin to take home. Experienced fiber artist Angelina Fleury will walk you through the magical process of transforming wool into 3D objects using a barbed needle. All materials included. Space is limited.

WEEKLY STORYTIMES

Double check library calendar to confirm weekly dates

Baby Rhyme Time: Tuesdays, 10:30–11 a.m. For babies up to 18 months with caregiver.

Interactive lap-sit program featuring a story, nursery rhymes, songs and baby sign language Mother Goose On The Loose: Wednesdays, 10:30–11 a.m. Preschool children 18 months to four years with caregivers are invited to an interactive program featuring nursery rhymes, stories and music activities that promote language development, visual literacy, social and emotional skills.

Nightfall Stories and Stretch: Thursdays, 10:30–11 a.m. Preschool children aged 18 months to four years with caregiver. Interactive program featuring nursery rhymes, stories and music activities that promote language development, visual literacy, social and emotional skills.

Mini Movers: Fridays, 10:30–11 a.m. Children from 14 months to four years, with their caregivers are invited to this fun, interactive program featuring songs, dancing, scarves, and egg shaker activities.

KIDS PROGRAMS

Moveable Mummy: Monday, Oct. 16, 6–7 p.m. For grades 4–6. Celebrate the Halloween season by creating your very own spook-tastic, miniature mummy figure that can be arranged into various poses for display.

NEW TO THE LIBRARY

Library of Things: A special collection of tools, equipment and games for patrons to borrow. Need something for a one-time project? Want to try something out before you buy it? Check out the Library of Things! Items currently include: a metal detector, fishing gear, binoculars, radon detector, hiking equipment, compass and guides, bird watching and guides, and more to come.

Memory Care Kits: A new special collection within the Library of Things, look for Memory Care Kits, a resource for individuals and families dealing with memory-related challenges. The kits include helpful resources and activities designed to stimulate a memory loss patient’s mind and are available to borrow with your library card.

Drumroll

Katherine Kaczkowski, of North Granby, was named to the University of Hartford’s dean’s list for the spring semester.

SPECIAL EVENT

Senior Fall Social: Friday, Oct. 6, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. at the North Barn Pavilion at Holcomb Farm. Come enjoy great company along with your soup and sandwich. Meet and greet your fellow seniors. Register by Sept. 29. Free.

TRIPS

Old Drake Hill Bridge Foliage Views: Thursday, Oct. 5, departs at 10 a.m. Rain date, Oct. 6. Located in Simsbury, this is an amazing 1892 metal truss flower bridge spanning the Farmington River. The Flower Bridge committee will do a 20-minute interactive presentation on the history and transformation of this onelane car bridge into a pedestrian-only flower bridge. After a tour, enjoy an outdoor boxed lunch including a sandwich or wrap of choice (turkey, ham, tuna, or veggie (w/ or w/out

cheese), bottle of water, bag of potato chips and a chocolate chip cookie. (Gluten free options.) Please specify meal choice when registering. Cost: $15, lunch included.

Dine and Drive, Cheesecake Factory: Friday, Oct. 13, departs at 11 a.m. Choose from more than 250 dishes made fresh from scratch every day and more than 40 legendary cheesecakes and desserts. Cost: $5

Shopping, Target in Enfield: Monday, Oct. 16, departs at 9:30 a.m. Cost: $5.

Mohegan Sun: Monday, Oct. 30, departs at 8:45 a.m. Test your luck on winning big or take time to explore some of the lovely shops, or do both! Enjoy lunch at the buffet or one of the amazing restaurants Mohegan Sun has to offer. Cost: $10.

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

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

LIFELONG LEARNING

Elder Fraud Presentation: Wednesday, Oct. 4, 10–11 a.m. Join Thomas Faeth, vice president and security officer, of Northwest Community Bank for a seminar on Elder Fraud, defined as a financial fraud scheme that targets senior citizens. Faeth will go over the most common types of elder fraud and, more importantly, how to protect yourself against them. Free.

Old Testament Survey Class: Wednesdays, Oct. 4–Nov. 15, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. This sevenweek overview of Old Testament history will familiarize you with the key biblical people, events and promises to Israel. The class will be led by Skip Mission, a lifelong Granby resident with more than 20 years of adult Bible teaching experience. Free.

Stonewall Speakers via Zoom: Friday, Oct. 6, 10–11 a.m. The Stonewall Speakers, an LGBT speakers bureau, will have three speakers representing the LGBTQ+ community who tell their individual stories touching on personal history, their coming out and their experiences along their journey. You will hear about the founding of the Stonewall Speakers—when how and why it was formed. Free.

Edna In Millbrook with author Faith Tyldsley: Friday, Oct. 13, 10–11 a.m. Faith Tyldsley attended St. Mary’s School for Girls in Peekskill, N.Y.; Wells College in Aurora, N.Y.; and the University of Pennsylvania. Prior to retirement, she was a guidance counselor and school psychologist and now lives in Granby with her cat, Lily. Tyldsley’s tribute to her mother, Edna Feely Tyldsley, for a life well-lived was culled from Edna’s letters and journals, church records, newspaper articles, and personal memories. Free.

Let’s Get Technical! Tuesday, Oct. 17–Nov. 7, 1–2 p.m. Gail Altschwager is back to teach this four-week series. Class 1: Basic Functions: What’s an operating system and why you need to know which operating system your devices use, calling, texting, voicemail, managing contacts, email, and being security savvy online. Class 2: What search engines are, how to use them and how to learn how to use your device. Class 3: Taking, storing and sending photos. Class 4: What are apps, passwords, how to find apps, how to install apps, how to use apps and how to delete them. Free.

Iconography of Tombstones: Wednesday, Oct. 18, 10–11 a.m. Take a stroll through a cemetery, and you’ll see intricate carvings on the monuments to the deceased. Join us and learn about some of the carvings, carvers and how some of our forefathers wanted to remember a person passed. John Cilio is a historian, storyteller, a member of the Organization of American Historians and the Association for the Study of Connecticut History. His goal is to make history relevant, engaging, and enlightening. Free.

Medicare Made Perfectly Clear: Friday, Oct. 20, 1–2:30 p.m. New to Medicare, coming off group sponsored employer plan, or already have Medicare but not sure if you’re on the right plan? These questions will be answered by Madison Roberson, from Roberson Tierney and Associates, during this free class.

ONGOING PROGRAMS

CRT Hot Lunch: Every Tuesday and Thursday, 12–1 p.m. Community Café offers a healthy, low-cost lunch for seniors 60+ plus the opportunity to join with others. Monthly menus are available at the Senior Center. All participants are required to complete a one-time informational survey. A donation of $3 per meal is suggested to help cover costs, however no one is denied a meal if unable to pay. Reservations are accepted until noon on Friday for the following week by calling 860-844-5350.

Ask the Attorney: Wednesday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. by appointment at the Granby Senior Center. Specializing in Elder Law. Please call to set up an appointment for a free half-hour consultation.

Cribbage: Fridays 3–5 p.m. and Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Join this lively group. 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 the 60s to the 80s. 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.

Camera Club: Monday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m. The club is for photography enthusiasts. Each month a different topic of interest is discussed. Annual membership is $10.

Women’s Breakfast: Wednesday, Oct. 4, 8:30 a.m. Guest speaker is Walter Banzhaf presenting The Incredible Story of a Sea Survivor. Cost: $5.

Men’s Breakfast: Friday, Oct. 13, 8:30 a.m. Guest speaker is Dr. Jason Hawley talking about the Connecticut Bobcat Project. Cost: $5.

Senior Center cont’d. to p. 23

The pumpkins are here!

By Sarah Pradhan

The Granby Congregational Church’s Pumpkin Patch is back and open for business starting on Sunday, Oct. 1 at the south campus on 242 Salmon Brook Street. Thousands of pumpkins in different colors and shapes await visitors at the patch. It will be open weekdays from 12 to 6 p.m. and weekends from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Pumpkin Patch Fundraisers originated in 1974 on a farm in North Carolina with three acres of pumpkins. Richard and Janice Hamby agreed with a local church to sell the pumpkins and share in the proceeds. They have been selling pumpkins since, although due to Hurricane Hugo, they moved their entire operation to the Navajo Reservation in Farmington, New Mexico.

Senior

EXERCISE PROGRAMS

See current Center Life newsletter for cost of programs.

Gentle Movement: Mondays, 11:15 a.m. Next session is Oct. 16–Nov. 27. Instructor, Paula Pirog. This class will gently increase your strength, help your ability to balance, and provide stretching to maintain and increase mobility.

Chair Yoga: Tuesdays, 2:30 p.m. Next session is Oct. 10–Nov. 28. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Enhanced breathing, seated and standing classic yoga poses, plus balance training and core strengthening. Guided meditation finishes the class in a calm and relaxing manner.

Yoga: Thursdays, 4 p.m. Next session is Oct. 10–Nov. 28. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Strength building sequences, standing and on the mat. Includes balance and Pilates floor work.

Chi Gong via Zoom: Wednesdays 9–9:45 a.m. Next session is Oct. 4–Nov. 29. The practice of Chi Gong helps us to feel grounded, nurtured and relaxed so that the body’s energy can be naturally directed to help our organs function optimally, create flexibility in the muscles, suppleness in the joins and bring balance to our emotions. Beneficial to all skill levels.

Instructor: Mary Ellen Mullins

Line Dancing with Jim: Wednesdays, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Class currently in session. Instructor Jim Gregory has been teaching dance full-time

The Hambys employ over 700 Native Americans during the harvest months and more than two dozen full-time staff from the reservation that has a 42 percent unemployment rate. They have partnered with over 1,000 non-profits, churches, scouts, and other civic organizations in the continental U.S.

Granby’s Dick Mullen introduced the Appalachian Service Project trips for our local youth to help the people of Appalachia and the Pumpkin Patch here to raise funds for the kids to go on these mission trips.

When looking for a Jack-O’-Lantern or some home decorations this fall season, the Granby Congregational Church’s Pumpkin Patch should be on your list! The pumpkin patch is not only

for 40 years. His expertise will have you learning the steps in no time and having a blast too. This class is for beginners to advanced dancers.

Tai Chi/Qi Gong: Thursdays, 9 a.m. Next session is Oct. 5–Nov. 23. Continuing the forms learned in previous sessions, this class will move on to learn Forms 9-12 of Yang style Tai Chi. The first half of class will consist of Qi Gong warm ups that are suitable for all abilities. Experience in first eight forms required to participate. Instructor: Mary Ellen Mullins.

Everybody’s Exercise with Mary Root: Thursdays, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Class currently in session. 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. Mary will personalize your routine based off current flexibility, strength, etc.

All About Balance: Thursdays, 2:45 p.m. Next session is Oct. 12–Nov. 16. 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.

Tai Chi Yang Style 24 Forms 1-6: Wednesdays, 2:45 p.m. Next session: Oct. 4–Nov. 22. This class is suitable and encouraged for beginners. Tai Chi is a practice that involves a series of slow, gentle, low impact movements, a relaxed, meditative mind set and controlled breathing.

a fun event to visit, it’s also a great way to support a good cause.

Author’s Note: I sat down with Sara Scotto who currently organizes the Pumpkin Patch and asked how she got involved. She remembers how Mullen would stand up in church during the announcements time, but she didn’t know him, and her children were young and not eligible for the mission trips.

Oddly enough, she replied to a Facebook post from a daughter who took a new job and needed help driving her dad to appointments in the area.

You guessed it, that dad was Dick Mullen [who passed away in 2019]. Scotto thinks of those trips fondly and tells me that Mullen shared all his life lessons and wisdom on these drives. She says with a smile, “Anyone who ever met Dick could never say no (to him) … he was a force of nature and could convince you to do it and convince you it was your idea to take it over.”

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Chair Massage: Tuesdays Oct. 3, 17 and 31, 10 a.m.–12:45 p.m. by appointment only. Bev offers 15-minute chair massages for $10. Must have current Senior Center membership to participate.

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.

Footcare with Sarah: Wednesday, Oct. 11, 8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Sarah, from Mobile Manicures, will assess feet and lower extremities, trim, file and clean nails. By appointment only.

Cost $35 not covered by insurance.

Hearing Screenings: Friday, Oct. 13, 9:30–11:30 a.m. by appointment only. Nova Hearing is our new Hearing Screening vendor. Free. Flu shot clinic by Farmington Valley VNA: Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2–4 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 21, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

by Michael Ungerleider D.M.D

Q: Are you over 55 and have old silver fillings in your mouth?

A: If you still have silver mercury fillings in your mouth, they are likely more than 25 years old. And although they don’t bother you, they are likely in need of replacement.

These fillings slowly expand and contract in your tooth allowing bacteria to sneak under the fillings (like termites getting into the cracks of your house) and continue to eat away your tooth as they travel to the center or pulp (nerve chamber). If left alone, they continue to invade the nerve leading to pain and abcess. Now you will need a Root Canal.

Oftentimes, using intraoral cameras, we can see cracks or fractures in the teeth. If we catch them early enough, we can remove the old mercury fillings and clean out the decay (cavity) under the old fillings. Then we can save the tooth and restore it to its white natural color and actually leave the tooth stronger and resistant to fracture.

So, if you have old silver (black) fillings in your mouth, contact us for a free consultation to see if your fillings are leaking.

You also may not like the way your teeth look, and believe that there is nothing that can be done. Well, don’t despair because modern dental methods and techniques can give you the smile you always dreamed of!

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

The doctors and staff of the Granby Dental Center invite you to see all of the new and exciting advances in modern dentistry at our office. Computerized Dental Radiography allows us to lower radiation doses to our patients by 50-90%! At the Granby Dental Center, we even offer CEREC, an amazing high tech method that allows us to fabricate high strength natural looking porcelain crowns in just one visit! This revolutionary CAD CAM unit allows us to preserve more natural tooth structure and restore the tooth to 100% of its original strength! With Cone Beam CT technology that our Granby Dental Center office has in-house here in Granby, we are able to see 3-D images instantly. This aids in a more accurate diagnosis and guided surgical planning for Implants

If you have a question you would like answered, or would like a tour of our modern office to view our sterilization procedures and up-to-date sanitation protocols and to meet our friendly, caring staff, please contact us, or visit our website: www.granbydentalcenter.com

Granby Dental Center… remember the Center

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

860-653-3220

Scan the QR code to find out more about our practice.

Center cont’d. from p. 22

A Passion for Preservation

Holley Case gives new life to castaway furniture

By Nicole Muller

When Granby native Holley (Macbeth) Case was born 29 years ago, she inherited more than her greatgrandmother’s maiden name, her mother’s critical eye and her father’s talent for working with his hands. She also inherited an entrepreneurial spirit and a love of antiques.

While young Holley was busy learning at Kearns School, Wells Road School and Granby Memorial Middle and High schools, her father Craig supported his family as a carpenter, and her mom Pat worked as a professional photographer. After graduation from high school, Holley attended Northwest Community College, later landing a medical-assistant internship with UConn Health in Simsbury. When the internship ended, she worked in the children’s unit of Community Health Services.

But it was while she was a freshman in high school that Holley met senior Joshua Case, who, following graduation, enlisted in the Air Force, later returning to Windsor Locks as an Air Force mechanic and electrician and resuming his courtship of Holley, whom he later married.

The couple has two children, Raelyn Holley, 7, and Jamison Craig, 4. When Jamison was an infant, Covid 19 hit, and Holley joined the ranks of stay-athome moms.

Using skills she learned from her father and a boatload of creativity, Granby native Holley Case has discovered the perfect post-Pandemic career for a mother with two young children. Case refinishes old, unwanted furniture into stylish gems. Photo by Nicole Muller

The Case family lives in Joshua’s family home on Bushy Hill Road, which his grandfather Arlo Case Sr. built.

“Joshua moved in with his grandfather when he was 16, after his grandmother died,” Holley says. “His father and uncle grew up in this house, and after Joshua’s grandfather died, we bought it.”

As is typical of old houses, this one was ready for a face lift, and who better to remodel than the creative daughter of

PUBLIC WORKS

Transfer Station hours: In addition to Saturdays, the transfer station will be open Wednesday mornings (8 a.m. to noon) through Nov. 15.

Household Hazardous waste collection: Saturday, Oct. 7, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Simsbury DPW facility, 66 Town Forest Road, Simsbury. A list of accepted items is available on the Town of Granby website. The following additional services will be provided: Electronics recycling (items with Freon not accepted) and document shredding, special hours 8:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. or until the truck is full. Two box limit per resident. For information, call the Granby DPW at 860-653-8960.

Winter preparation: As we prepare for winter, DPW crews will be out marking plow routes and trimming trees.

Signs: Generally, no private signs are permitted on town property. Before placing a sign on the town green, please contact the town manager’s office for approval. Signs should only be placed on the roadside with permission of the property owner. Signs should never be placed in traffic islands.

a carpenter with her mother’s sharp eye for detail?

“I had lost my income because of Covid, so when I was refinishing our mud room, I started an Instagram account, oak.and.copper, and got Hart Tools [the Walmart brand] to sponsor me,” Case says. That sponsorship included a free set of Hart power tools that Holley uses in videos to promote the brand.

The many projects that Holley has completed in her workshop demonstrate her love of flipping tired old pieces into fresh, sleek new ones. “I got a bedroom set for free, refinished it and sold it on Facebook Marketplace at a profit,” she says. “I love working with my hands. My father taught me everything I know about refinishing and painting.

With Covid and two kids, I had to make refinishing into a business.” Among her sources for pieces to rescue are roadside freebies and the Granby dump. Handily for Holley, Sharon Ensign had opened Re-Inspired on Route 10

Textile recycling: You can still recycle textiles curbside, but you must contact Simple Recycling to schedule a pickup. It can be done online at simplerecycling.com or by calling 1-866-835-5068.

Plastic bag recycling: Plastic bags, wraps and mailers are recyclable—but not in your curbside bin! Please look for the Store Drop Off label and take your bags/wraps with this label to your local store.

Along the same lines, please do not place your recyclables in plastic bags. Once the bag reaches the processing plant, they will assume it is trash and remove it from the recycling line. You’re basically wasting your recycling effort by doing this.

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

in Southwick in December 2019. To remain afloat during the Pandemic, Ensign opened her shop by appointment for those who were updating their homes or needing supplies.

“I went to Re-Inspired for paint because it’s not only gorgeous, but very versatile and durable,” Holley says. “After I talked to Sharon about my work, and showed it to her on Instagram, she hired me for one day a week in March 2021.” Holley now works at ReInspired about 25 hours a week. She also consigns some of her own pieces to sell in the shop, which she hopes to own one day.

“I would love to take over Re-Inspired when Sharon retires—we’ve talked about that—or have my own shop,” Holley says. For now, she continues to give new life to old, discarded pieces and looks forward to Columbus Day weekend, when she will have her firstever booth at the Granville Harvest Fair. Stop by and take a look!

By Margaret Adamec

Imagine yourself walking through a dark graveyard with unholy apparitions lurking just beyond sight making slight rustling sounds. A chill breeze brings goose bumps to your skin, and then you hear maniacal laughter and the horrific sound of a chain saw starting up right behind you, and you run screaming into the night!

At least that would be my reaction to such a scenario. While some people find Halloween frights exhilarating and fun, others like me are not quite so brave. For the very bold of spirit or the reckless adventurer, there is one more chance to dare the terrors of the haunt on Kelly Lane, before it is gone forever back into the twisted mind of its creator, Susan Longo (aka The Queen of Halloween, as her husband crowned her).

For Longo, Halloween is a passion, perhaps even an obsession. And her greatest delight is in the screams and laughter of the victims who visit her annual haunted event. She has created a massive fright-fest in her house and yard for the past 30-plus years, but this year the haunt will end.

It all began one dark and stormy night, on a perfectly normal Halloween night, the Longo family’s first one in Granby.

The doorbell rang only seven times that night. Disappointed by the poor turnout for her most beloved holiday, Longo vowed that the next Halloween would be better. She worked to create a truly frightening, thrilling Halloween destination spot for the next year and the haunt was born.

She planned for months, dreaming up scary scenarios and the most horrific images her imagination could manifest. Then she gathered the props to turn her home into a mansion of the macabre. The first year was small, but young and old alike enjoyed the experience so much that it continued and grew from year to year.

One of Longo’s most treasured memories is the “Bobbing for Bob” cauldron, where she combined peeled grape “eyeballs,” spaghetti for intestines, chicken bones and Bob the skeleton, and told children they would have to bob for Bob to get their bag of candy. An intrepid young man prepared to strip off his costume to do just that, before her hasty “No! No! It’s just a joke!”

In fact, it grew into a production that required outdoor space as well as indoor, included strobe lights, music, sound effects and fog machines, and drew as many as 200 visitors in peak years. It also required some assistance, which Longo received from her husband, her children and their friends. From dressing up in costume, to playing the part of dead bodies, ghosts, or chain-saw-wielding maniacs, her family and friends went along with her nightmarish visions, even though they occasionally were the recipients of an over reactive punch or kick from genuinely frightened visitors. And dressed in her own grotesque costume, she reveled in greeting guests and welcoming (or leading) them to their doom. But of course, she sent them away afterwards with an ominous “Be sure to have sweet dreams…”

Her dedication for the season is unparalleled. Over the decades she invested in props, tools, one self-storage unit, then a larger self-storage unit, and ultimately a shed to store her 18 Rubbermaid totes containing her stuff of nightmares. Actually, she calls them her “Children,” the affectionate tone of her voice just a wee bit unsettling. Each year she creates a new theme, and sometimes wakes up in the middle of the night with new ideas she must jot down. Themes have included CarnEvil, Harvester of Souls, Little Shops of Horror, Date Night, and even an educational exhibit of the Salem Witch Trials. Brave souls who survive the trek through the gruesome scenes are rewarded with bags of candy. (Sometimes those who were truly scared but faced their fears, got two.)

The haunt is sometimes a little too real. Longo uses sight, sound, smell and touch in her creations. She has dangled fishing line from trees so that people walking through would feel a tiny brush along an arm or cheek, and used bursts of air, sprays of water, or a tap on the shoulder from an unseen hand. These subtle touches are meant to make it feel that much more real, and creepy. It’s all in good fun, but scary-good fun. Anyone who loves the adrenaline rush from a sudden fright will understand, especially those chased by “Chainsaw Man.”

This year’s theme, The End, includes all of Longo’s props. Part will be set up in a tent, and it will go on (as every year) rain or shine or even snow, starting at dusk and lasting until the spirits sleep. Longo is asking all the goblins who dare to come to Kelly Lane to bring a donation for the Granby Food Bank. The goal is to Fill a Coffin… or two. Come if you dare, and please in the interest of safety do not park on both sides of the street.

Although she truly loves her annual event, and especially making people scream, the Queen of Halloween feels it is time to hang up her broomstick. She does most of the work single-handedly and does not set it all up until the actual day. And she takes it all down the next day. It is a true labor of love. She has watched kids grow up coming to her haunted yard year after year and says it has been a passion and a joy for over three decades. She delights in scaring people and wants to thank everyone for the years of support, the screams and the laughter. And to quote a poem she wrote awhile back, “Sweet dreams from Kelly Lane, if dare you sleep.”

Submitted photos from prior years of Longo’s haunts

The Granby Grange Agricultural Fair celebrates home, garden and community

Story and photos by Faith Tyldsley

and hand pump. Rulon’s creative business card describes him as a “Collector of Antique Engines and other stuff that is considered Junk.”

Inside the grange hall, long tables held exhibits and silent auction offerings. A large farm basket overflowing with edible farm produce, created by the Sales family of Granby’s 4-H youth organization, held pride of place in front of the hall’s stage. Information about community organizations, including The Granby Drummer and Salmon Brook Historical Society, was available from Managing Editor Jen Bell of the Drummer, and from Curator Martha Marie Miller and President Bill Ross of the historical society.

The Association of Connecticut Fairs sponsors baking contests at participating member fairs. First place winners of these contests are eligible to submit their entries into a statewide competition.

On Sunday, Carol Innes, fair president, was recuperating. She said, “We had a great fair yesterday. Many more people attended this year as compared with the past and it was a financial success as well.”

On Sept. 9, the Granby Grange Hall opened its doors to the public for its traditional Agricultural Fair. Entries of jams and pickles, zucchini and watermelon, baked goods and flowers started arriving the evening before. Additional entries came early in the morning. Judging began at 10 a.m.

The front lawn was awash with potted mums in hues of yellow, orange and purple, reasonably priced and in good time for the celebration of the autumn equinox on September 23.

Richard Rulon and his rejuvenated engines attracted fair goers on their way into the hall. His enthusiasm for his craft was obvious as he described in layman’s terms the operation and purposes of his hay press, pumping engine

By 11 a.m. ribbons had been awarded. The mood was festive. Visitors filled the hall—viewing the exhibits and purchasing raffle tickets. Many stayed on for a while chatting with friends. There had been a generous array of homebaked items for sale; they sold out well before closing.

Carol Innes (Apple Pie), above, and Faith Tyldsley (Pane Bianco) won blue ribbons at the grange fair. They will be submitting their respective baked items at the Connecticut Fair Association’s annual meeting in November, competing against other first place winners from each of the (approximately 30) other fairs held throughout Connecticut this year. Wish them luck!

Sign up for 4-H on October 4

By Emilia Sales

Granby 4-H sign-up night is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 4 at the Holcomb Farm Workshop. This open house from 7 to 8 p.m. will introduce the youth-officer team and project groups available for the 2023-24 program year.

The 4-H Club is an organization where kids find a welcoming community and a place where they can learn, cultivate, and grow life-long skills and friendships. Granby 4-H welcomes children ages 7-18 who are interested in exploring agricultural, vocational and STEM skills.

There are eight monthly club meetings per year, November to June, on the first Wednesday of the month at the Holcomb Farm Workshop. Meetings are run by 4-H youth officers and a 4-H member led demonstration on a familiar subject such as raising dairy goats or showing their dog at the fair. Next, the club welcomes an adult member of the community to lead a program on additional topics such as beekeeping or hands-on art activities.

4-H members are encouraged to participate in one (or many) project groups as well. This involves smaller group meetings led by volunteers willing to share their knowledge or talent. This is where more hands-on learning takes place. New project groups last year included fishing, maple-syrup making and LEGOs.

4-H participants also volunteer in the community, such as marching in the Memorial Day Parade or creating holiday ornaments for residents of MeadowBrook. Visit the new website for more information on the club, project groups, and volunteering: granby4h.com/

Parent and community volunteers are needed to provide the club members with a continued variety of projects. Past groups have included painting, homesteading, sewing, cooking and animal showmanship. Please consider what you have to offer. All are encouraged to share their knowledge with the 4-H youth.

For questions, please contact granbyct4h@gmail.com

Hopeful contenders

Lucian Cascio (Grange Executive Committee member), Shirley Moore and Sue Belle-Isle (judges), Carol Innes (Fair President; Grange Treasurer)

Richard Rulon, Collector of Antique Engines

First place apple pie baked by Carol Innes

3 Concerts this Fall

Please Save the Dates!

All Concerts held at Granby Congregational Church

https://www.granbycongregationalchurch.org

Use QR codes or visit website to reserve seats/buy tickets. www.salmonbrookmusic.org

South Campus / Fellowship Hall

Dave Gunning and JP Cormier

Sunday 10/22 - 4:00pm

https://our.show/sbms/gunning/cormier

Fred Wilhelm

Saturday 11/11 - 7:30pm

https://our.show/sbms/fredwilhelm

North Campus

Cassie & Maggie Holiday Concert

Thursday 12/1 - 7:00pm

https://our.show/sbms/cassieandmaggie

All concerts are family friendly. Refreshments are served at intermission. We look forward to seeing you at one or all concerts this fall!

Tasting honey at the Grange.

John O’Brien extols the benefits of autumn crocus at O’Brien Nursery.

Karen Dowd mans the cornhole game at the Granby Land Trust table at Sweet Pea Farm.

Selling apples at Lost Acres Orchard.

Dorothy Hayes delivers lunch to the goats at Sweet Pea Farm.

Hay bale throwing contest at Maple View Farm. Chris Prosperi cooks up pasta dish using Holcomb Farm veggies.

drive-thru food distribution on Friday afternoons between 3 and 4 p.m. in the parking lot of the church’s North Campus at 219 North Granby Road. This all-volunteer program is funded by GCC and individual donations and is led by Kerri Crough. Clients of Open Cupboard need not be members of the church, nor must they prove financial need or town residency, but they must be Connecticut residents.

In September 2021, Open Cupboard entered into a partnership agreement with Connecticut Foodshare. This partnership increases its purchasing power and allows Open Cupboard to give out more food and a greater variety of items.

ANNUAL MEETING

On a beautiful August day, some 40 Friends of Holcomb Farm members gathered at the North Barn for our Annual Meeting: to celebrate the great successes of 2022 and highlight current activities, including the ongoing celebrations of this, our 30th year of community service.

Many of the highlights have been shared on this page in recent months— permanent preservation of the land, a fabulous growing season, thousands of volunteer hours spent improving and growing the Tree Trail for public enjoyment and amazing support from donors and granting organizations, to name a few. Rather than review them all here, I encourage you to check out our Annual Report which you can find on the homepage of our website: holcombfarm.org

In addition to enjoying delicious homemade pies from a few of our members—including the pie baking contest winner, Sue Canavan—we gave special recognition to two people at the meeting: Bob Bystrowski and Cathy Browning. Bystrowski retired from the Friends of Holcomb Farm Board of Directors after 12 years of leadership, and Browning has announced her year-end retirement from serving as the Friends’ administrative manager. Both have provided much-needed guidance and support as the Friends evolved and changed over the past decade into the successful farming, land stewardship and service organization of today. We thank them!

FRESH ACCESS

Speaking of service, this month we highlight our newest Fresh Access partner, the Open Cupboard at Granby Congregational Church (GCC). The Open Cupboard provides weekly

Distributions usually include frozen meat, family-sized canned and dry goods, shelf-stable milk and pet food. Occasionally personal care items like tissues and toilet paper are also offered. Now through its partnership with Holcomb Farm Fresh Access, Open Cupboard can provide fresh produce to its clients. Both Open Cupboard and the Friends are excited about this new partnership, and grateful for the donations and grants that support it.

Special thanks again this year to Thrall Farms, which has welcomed our volunteers into their orchards to harvest grapes and apples, which we include in our Fresh Access distributions.

CELEBRATION 30 CONTINUES

On Sept. 16, Holcomb Farm joined the Granby Agricultural Commission as one of 14 farms inviting the public in for Open Farm Day, with expanded activities to reflect our evolution to the community service organization we are today. We thank all who came to visit!

Throughout the month of October the Granby Public Library will feature The Friends through a display which

will include information on all our activities. We hope you can stop by and learn more. And mark your calendar for Thursday, Oct. 26, 6:30–7:30 p.m., when the Library will host us for a presentation about all the work we do at this town-owned gem.

CLARIFICATION

In the September issue of the Granby Drummer we highlighted the work Fresh Access does with Granby’s Waste Not Want Not (WNWN) Community Dinner and noted that the partnership between Fresh Access and WNWN is funded largely by the Granby Community Fund. It is important to note that the good work of WNWN goes well beyond this partnership. WNWN relies on donations from many individuals and organizations for their weekly dinners. We encourage all to support WNWN: donations can be made directly with a check payable to Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen, mailed to: PO Box 606, Granby, CT 06035.

Fruit from Thrall Farms adds variety to our Fresh Access distributions. Many thanks to volunteers Jim Szipsky, JoAnn Smith, Ann Wilhelm and Susan Worland for their help with the

Open Cupboard volunteers (l.–r.) Ken Way, Pete Betsch and Aileen Rosensweig prepare to serve 30-some clients with food distributions that include Fresh Access produce. Photo by

Donna Snyder

Departing Friends’ President Bob Bystrowski shares stories of recent successes during the Friends of Holcomb Farm Annual Meeting.

Photo by Trish Percival

harvest.

Photo by Donna Snyder

Chef Chris Prosperi, from Metro Bis restaurant in Simsbury, demonstrates how to turn Holcomb Farm veggies into utter deliciousness during Granby Open Farm Day. Photo by Jenny Emery

Donna Snyder and Christiane Pimentel enjoy each other’s company at the Friends of Holcomb Farm Annual Meeting.

Photo by Trish Percival

GLT Annual Meeting for members

All current Granby Land Trust members are invited to the 2023 GLT Annual Meeting and Potluck Supper on Sunday, Oct. 15 at the Holcomb Farm’s North Barn Pavilion.

Art Show to support Granby Land Trust

All are invited to enjoy the Granby Land Trust’s 2023 juried art show, Celebrating New England’s Natural Beauty, from Oct. 26 through Nov. 26 at Lost Acres Vineyard in North Granby. Held in partnership with the Granby Artists Association, this will be the 16th annual show. Please join us to celebrate New England’s natural beauty, and enjoy a glass of Lost Acres Vineyard wine.

This year’s show will open on Thursday, Oct. 26, with a reception from 5 to 8 p.m. open to all. All art is available for purchase, with a portion of sales benefiting the Granby Land Trust.

Opening night typically draws as many as 150 people, making this a fun night out on the town. All are welcome to join us for complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine—one complimentary glass per person—while you socialize with friends, meet the artists, enjoy the show and hopefully add an original piece of artwork to your collection. Nearly $5,000 in awards will be presented to artists.

Submissions will be juried by Amy Kurtz Lansing, curator at the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme. Lansing has worked with contemporary artists on exhibitions and site-specific commissions and frequently serves as a juror for Connecticut arts organizations. The Granby Land Trust show is highly selective and only the best art is chosen.

The Land Trust is grateful to all its award underwriters and particularly to its event sponsors: Mark and Barb

Wetzel and Ted Cormier of ALIRT Insurance Research, LLC for their ongoing loyal support of the show.

To date, the Land Trust has protected more than 3,220 acres of open space, forests, wildlife habitat, agricultural land, water buffers, ecologically sensitive areas and scenic vistas in Granby.

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

The show will run through Sunday, Nov. 26, at the Lost Acres Vineyard Art Gallery, 80 Lost Acres Road, in North Granby. Gallery hours are Friday and Saturday from 12 to 6 p.m.; Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m. For more information, visit granbylandtrust.org

We hope everyone can find some time to come enjoy this beautiful and diverse collection of fine art in one of Granby’s most beautiful (manmade!) settings.

Artists can access a prospectus on our website; go to GranbyLandTrust.org and click on “Events.”

To learn more about the work of the Granby Land Trust or to learn about other upcoming GLT events, visit GranbyLandTrust.org and follow us on social media.

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

At this year’s meeting, a representative from the Connecticut Land Conservation Council will be on hand to award the group’s 2023 Excellence in Conservation Organization Award for an Outstanding Project to the Granby Land Trust for our work with community partners—the Salmon Brook Historical Society, the Friends of Holcomb Farm and the Town of Granby—to protect both the 45-acre Wilcox Farm complex (in 2021) and 277 acres of the 311-acre Holcomb Farm (in 2022).

3–5 p.m. Tour the Wilcox House and Barn. Volunteers from the Salmon Brook Historical Society will open the circa 1800 Wilcox House and 1857 Barn for tours from 3 to 5 p.m. Come see the newly restored pantry, furnished with items found in the house that match what was listed in Sadoce Wilcox’s 1833 estate inventory; and the impressive 300-year-old loom, which was used by the Wilcox Family to create woolen cloth at the earliest stages of the Industrial Revolution in America. Located on the banks of the West Branch of the Salmon Brook, this beautiful home’s future was unclear before the GLT stepped in to purchase it. The SBHS has done amazing work to restore the house and barn since accepting it from the Land Trust in 2021.

4 p.m. Tour the Holcomb Tree Trail. Eric Lukingbeal, who serves on both the Granby Land Trust Board of Directors and the Friends of Holcomb Farm Board of Directors, will lead a tour of the Holcomb Tree Trail Arboretum at 4 p.m. Comprised of both mature and newly-planted trees, the Holcomb

Tree Trail takes you up the hill across the road from Holcomb Farm, giving a beautiful view not only of the many varieties of trees but also of the valley below. Designed, installed and maintained entirely by Friends of Holcomb Farm volunteers, the Tree Trail is managed as an arboretum to be enjoyed by all. The entirety of the trail is now protected by a conservation easement held by the Granby Land Trust.

5 p.m. Potluck Dinner. Back by popular demand—bring your favorite side dish, salad or dessert. We will provide the main dish. Please let us know what you’re bringing so we can plan accordingly.

6 p.m. GLT Annual Meeting and Award Presentation. Learn about recent activities, elect new board members and celebrate our land trust heroes. The CLCC award presentation will take place during the meeting. Watch your email for more information and a registration link, or go to granbylandtrust.org and click on “Annual Meeting” to learn more! RSVP by Oct. 9.

Granby Land Trust members enjoy the 2022 annual meeting. Photo by Leslie Judge

Guests enjoy the art at the 2022 Opening Night. Photo by Trish Percival

NOT WANTED

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

By David Desiderato

Jumping worms cut through my heart

For four years, I’ve written Not Wanted columns in a neutral, objective style. This one is different.

Most gardeners actively love their soil. We celebrate the creatures that help make it fertile. Earthworms are visible partners; whenever I see them a little cheer goes up inside.

This spring I bought several yards of combined compost and yard soil, a dark, moist, fecund mixture, from a reputable local source. For months I joyfully put it to use: doubledigging it into the tomato trench; transplanting young shrubs and trees—redbuds, tulip trees and dawn redwoods I grew from seed; building and expanding beds for shrubs, flowers and vegetables; and transplanting thousands of native perennial wildflowers, grown from seed from Prairie Moon Nursery, a great resource for native plants.

Suddenly, there were worms, everywhere. And they were different. Big, vigorous, muscular, with snakelike movements when disturbed. A pale band an inch or two from the head. An iridescent sheen as they wriggled. Just below the leaf mulch surface, in the top couple inches of the soil. And the soil was different. In large areas it had morphed, almost overnight, into a blanket of uniform, crumbly, coffee-ground-like worm castings.

I looked up jumping worms and immediately realized it was a massive infestation. The more I learned, the more my heart sank.

What I learned.

Jumping worms live in the top couple inches of soil, going deeper only briefly to hide. They completely transform those couple of inches. With astonishing speed, they devour much of the organic layer of leaves or mulch and replace it with a homogenous mass of castings— worm poop. Castings are a great organic fertilizer…underground, where plant roots can use them, not on the surface.

Jumping worms eliminate seed banks and the Mycorrhizal (fungal) network that connects plants underground. They leave voids in the soil that destabilize soils, dry out plant roots, increase erosion and leach nutrients.

They only live a year, dying after hard frosts. But in the fall they produce scores of durable poppy seed-size cocoons that overwinter and hatch in the spring. They reproduce so rapidly—50 to 100 per worm per year—that a few worms one year could be an infestation the next.

Jumping worms travel only a few dozen feet a year. But humans move them around further and faster as we transfer cocoon-laden plants, soil and mulch. From their origins in Asia, their numbers have exploded in Connecticut, especially in the last couple of years, partly due to increased demand during the pandemic and our extreme moisture.

There is as yet no chemical or biological cure. A ton of research is being conducted on

Depend on State Line for Your Comfort

this new threat and promising strategies are being tested. What we do right now to kill adults before they reproduce is critical. Here’s what I’m doing, based on expert advice, especially from the CT Agricultural Experiment Station. Lots more resources, photos and more are available at granbyinvasiveplants.weebly.com

What to do

1. Search and Destroy. I look for areas where the mulch or leaf layer is thin or replaced by exposed castings. With my hand or a tool I disturb the soil; if jumping worms are present, they are obvious, wriggling vigorously. I grab them (not by the tail because it can break off) and drop in a bucket of water with added dish detergent, which kills them in less than an hour. It doesn’t take long to kill hundreds. It makes me feel better to count; each dead worm is 100 fewer next year. I wear rubber gloves to cut the gross factor. If I wear Crocs, they come to me, passing through the holes and crawling over my toes.

2. Stop the Spread. For potted plants, I take them out of the pot and shake off the dirt into a large container, grabbing any worms that show and dumping into the soapy water. I wash all the soil off the roots in a succession of buckets, each cleaner than the last, to ensure no worms or cocoons. Then I repot using purified soil, or plant in the ground. Spread the wash water on a hot road on a sunny day.

3. Purify the soil. I evenly spread suspect soil, and soil removed from potted plants, on a plastic sheet in the sunny driveway, no more than 6” deep, leaving a border of at least a foot all around, extracting and chucking into the soapy water the worms that show themselves as I shovel. I spread a second sheet of clear plastic on top, with a similar border, roll the borders together and tape it closed all around. Temperatures over 105 degrees for several days—longer as the season progresses —kill the worms and cocoons, yielding purified usable soil. Without the bottom layer and the

sealed edges, worms avoid the heat by burrowing into cooler soil. I’ll cook smaller batches in the oven indoors.

4. Confess, Explain, Support. At first, I was so distressed at our infestation that I didn’t want to tell anyone, like it’s a deep, shameful family secret. Then I realized they are everywhere, and everyone needs to know what they can do, right now.

We can all stop the spread.

Look around your property:

• If you find them, focus on them as soon as you can, before they reproduce.

• If you are buying soil or mulch: make sure the seller has heated the material to over 105 degrees for several days with no way for the worms to escape.

• If you are buying or exchanging plants: choose bare-root only, or use the laborious method above to wash all the dirt off and purify it.

• If you fish: don’t buy worms for bait unless you absolutely know they are not jumping worms.

Take care of yourself.

Gardeners, tree planters, farmers, anyone who puts stuff in the ground and helps it get bigger, better, more beautiful, more productive— we all worship at the altar of hope. Whether we think about it a lot, or not at all, we hope if we put seeds or plants together with the essentials—light, water, nutrients—things will grow. Soil is the key, and Granby has glorious soil, the sandy loam holds moisture but drains, is nutrient-rich, without a lot of rocks or clay.

Jumping worms made me feel hopeless. They cut through my heart. I felt disgusted, at war with nature. I began to fantasize about pavement, moving to an apartment. These feelings are common, I learned; there are resources to help (“Emotional Support for People with Jumping Worms,” U. of Minnesota Extension). For me, taking action is a salve, I recommend it.

Mental Health resources available

By Olivia Morris

Are you struggling with negative thoughts or feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands? Are you juggling too many responsibilities and feeling like you can’t catch a break? You are not alone.

The Farmington Valley Health District has partnered with CredibleMind to bring you free, confidential, anonymous, 24/7 online access to the largest library of expert-vetted mental health and well-being resources. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety or depression or

just want to tackle that “something isn’t right” feeling, CredibleMind has thousands of different resources like podcasts, apps, articles, and videos to help you get started on your personal self-care journey. Recognizing that the average delay between the development of symptoms of a mental health condition and seeking treatment is 11 years, this tool provides an opportunity for individuals to seek earlier intervention and support in the convenience and privacy of their own home on their own time.

Try it for yourself today. Visit fvhd.crediblemind.com

Learning never retires for today’s seniors

By Meg Aldrich

When Joe Doering wound down his working life, the East Granby resident had plans to get more involved in his community, travel and enjoy family time. He’d been a busy business owner in his working life and wanted to remain intellectually engaged and learning new things in retirement.

He found just what he was looking for at Presidents’ College, the lifelong learning program at the University of Hartford. Taught by professors and community experts, the Presidents’ College offers lectures and non-credit courses to adults of all ages. Topics include the arts, history, current events, literature, science and engineering.

more than 30 years ago by then-university President Humphrey Tonkin, who taught the first courses. Since that time, the program has grown tremendously, with a typical semester offering 15 courses and eight lectures. As one of the most extensive lifelong learning programs in New England, the Presidents’ College is distinguished by its high-quality offerings and breadth of its course portfolio. Attendees can stay current on the latest in cases being argued before the Supreme Court, climate change research, or political developments in the U.S. and Ukraine.

A distinguishing element of Presidents’ College is the relationships created. Classroom discussions spill over into coffee or lunch afterwards,

program’s lifeblood, the in-person experience.

Like Doering, today’s seniors want to remain intellectually, socially and physically engaged. About 40 percent of Connecticut’s population is over the age of 50, according to the CT Data Collaborative. Across the U.S. 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 every day according to Transamerica Center for Retirement Research. This large demographic is more affluent, healthier and expected to live longer than its predecessors.

Tonkin was ahead of his time, seeing the benefits of building connections between the University and its surrounding community. University of Hartford Professor Paul Slaboch, one of the many University professors who teach in Presidents’ College, commented, “I love being in the classroom with older learners. Their seasoning and experience make the dialogue richer.” He went on to cite an example, noting, “I taught a class about space exploration, discussing how technologies changed from the first moon landing to current endeavors like Space X and Virgin Galactic. A student raised his hand and described some of the issues and constraints he and his engineering team faced in making astronaut suits for the Apollo 11 Mission. Moments like that remind me of the incredible wisdom that these remarkable students bring to the classroom.”

“I just loved taking Walter Harrison’s course on Baseball’s Golden Age. He discussed the evolution of baseball’s integration and Jackie Robinson’s breaking the Major League color barrier. Then he put baseball’s evolution into the wider context of society’s transformation during the Civil Rights era. The class was about so much more than sports,” noted Doering. “Walt’s knowledge of history and passion for baseball are phenomenal,” he continued. “Walt played a video clip of Willie Mays making ‘The Catch,’ and his commentary gave me a much deeper appreciation for how amazing that famous catch-andthrow was.”

The Presidents’ College was started

and friendships bloom. Students in one of the literature courses found such a sense of camaraderie that they started a monthly book group that’s still ongoing. The program is launching its own lunch series this year called the Presidents’ College Café.

Courses are short—two or three sessions—so that students can work them in around travel and volunteer commitments. Each class session lasts 1.5 hours during the day or early evening hours. There is no membership fee, and students pay a modest fee for each course with free permitted parking. The program moved to Zoom courses during the Covid-19 pandemic, but students couldn’t wait to get back to the

Presidents’ College partners with other organizations, on and off campus, to take learning beyond the classroom. Students can take a session on opera, theater, dance, drama and musicals, and then join classmates at the Bushnell, Hartford Stage, The Hartt School and Opera Connecticut for live performances. The program introduced a Silent Book Club, aka “Happy Hour for Introverts.” Attendees show up with a book, mingle and enjoy wine and cheese for 30 minutes, then read silently for an hour. The last half hour is for readers to chat with other attendees about books (or anything else) if they choose. It’s all of the fun and none of the pressure of a traditional book club.

For more information on the lifelong learning program and fall semester courses, visit hartford.edu/pc Email pcollege@hartford.edu or call 860-7684495 with questions or to be added to the Presidents’ College mailing list.

Students chat after class with Professor Paul Slaboch (second from right). Submitted photo

Granby 4-H is FUN!

Hi! My name is Luke Osowiecki and I am a member of Granby 4-H. This is my third year in 4-H. I have learned a lot in 4-H, like how to make cheese, how to take better pictures and how to show my dog.

Granby 4-H is fun because we can do activities and learn many things. Sign up night is fun because you can choose the projects you like. We have monthly meetings and then work in project groups like cheesemaking, photography, small engines, animal project groups, LEGOs and more.

Last year, I was the community service officer for the club and we did projects to help our community, like having a food drive to help the Granby Food Bank and making ornaments for the residents at MeadowBrook. It was fun to plan these events and to help other people in Granby.

I am also a member of Snoopy’s Pals dog club in Suffield, where I learn to show my dog, Bandit.

Last year, I joined the Hartford County 4-H Fair Association, which helps plan our fair every August. I got to help plan all of the events and entertainment, like our touch-a-truck event, mad science and the bands. I raised money for the fair. I was able to show my projects in dogs, booths, LEGOs and photography this year. I learned that it takes a lot of hard work to put together a fair! I think 4-H is a good program that lets me learn new things and grow as a person.

Sign-up for 4-H is 7-8 p.m., Wed., Oct. 4, at the Holcomb Farm Workshop.

November 2023 deadlines

ADS: Monday, Oct. 9 at noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, please leave a message.

Email: ads@granbydrummer.org

ARTICLES: Monday, Oct. 16 at noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222.

Email: editor@granbydrummer.org

WORK DATES: Oct. 8-22 Call or email for times.

The public is encouraged to submit articles and photos about events of interest to Granby residents. The editors urge you to make submissions by email if at all possible. We acknowledge submissions by return email. If you do not hear from us please follow up with another email or leave a message at 860-653-9222. Articles should be written in the third person. More detailed information on Drummer submission requirements is available on the website at granbydrummer.com

Granby 4-H’er Luke Osowiecki and his dog, Bandit. Submitted photo