The Ginkgo Tree
John O’Brien and I were happy to receive a clarification from Peter Annulli, who was a member of the Granby Public Works ground crew during the late 90s when the Town Green Ginkgo was planted. Annulli estimates that at that time, the tree was 3–5 years old. That would make it 32–33 years old when it was removed for the widening of the road.
Shirley Murtha
Granby should celebrate its dramatic arts excellence
The Granby Memorial High School (GMHS) Dramatic Arts Program deserves a standing ovation for its creativity, dedication and impact on the community. Producing a play or musical each year requires tremendous time, effort and resources—from licensing and set design to costumes and props. It’s a true labor of love that delivers remarkable results.
Under the direction of Erin Bakken, with stunning sets by Janet Spatcher, the leadership of Leeayn Burke and the musical talents of Mindy Shilansky, GMHS Drama continues to shine. Students and adults alike devote countless hours to rehearsals, design and production to bring the best performances to Granby.
Even with limited funding, GMHS Drama ranks among the best in Connecticut, earning multiple Halo Award nominations and wins each year. Their achievements reflect not only outstanding talent but also teamwork, perseverance and community support.
The newly formed Dramatic Arts Booster Club has brought fresh energy and resources to help manage production costs. Sponsorships, family support and volunteer efforts—from selling tickets to helping with concessions—all play a vital role in keeping the program strong.
Drama is a cornerstone of GMHS culture. It offers students a place to belong, to express themselves and to build skills in collaboration, discipline and creativity—much like athletics. With continued community encouragement, the GMHS Dramatic Arts Program will keep inspiring audiences and showcasing the incredible talent within our schools.
Melissa Silverman