Shannon-Shattuck Post 182 completed a significant modernization of its kitchen thanks to a grant from the Granby Community Fund at Greater Hartford Gives (formerly known as the Granby Greater Together Community Fund and Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, respectively). Post 182’s project brings the post’s kitchen up to current fire, safety and health standards—strengthening its ability to serve veterans, first responders and the community throughout the year.
The centerpiece of the upgrade is a commercial vent hood and integrated fire-suppression system, replacing aging equipment that no longer met modern code requirements. The installation also included new propane lines, a relocated emergency shutoff, electrical improvements, and a new state-of-the-art Vulcan 10-burner commercial stove.
“These improvements were essential to ensuring that our building remains a safe and reliable gathering place for the community,” said the Post’s Adjutant, Bill De Nio. “We host hundreds of people each year—from pancake breakfasts to Scout events to our annual Game Supper—and this project ensures we can continue that tradition safely.”
The road to completion was not without challenges. Early vendor proposals varied widely, and evolving fire code requirements meant the post had to abandon a previously purchased used hood in favor of a new, fully compliant system. Supply chain delays pushed installation into late fall 2025, and the project faced a profound setback with the illness and passing of longtime member and project manager Jim Sansone in December.
“Jim was the heart of this project,” Post Commander Cliff Burrell shared. “His dedication to the Legion and to the town of Granby was unmatched. Completing this work became part of honoring his legacy.”
Despite these obstacles, the project was finished in early 2026. The new system passed inspections from both the Fire Marshal and the Town Building Department, and the kitchen was fully operational in time for February’s 2nd Saturday Pancake Breakfast and the Post’s traditional Game Supper, where more than 100 meals were served.
The Legionnaires of Shannon-Shattuck Post 182 express deep gratitude to the Granby Community Fund for believing in them and making the project possible. “This investment strengthens our ability to serve veterans and the wider community for decades to come,” Burrell said. “We are incredibly proud of what this partnership has achieved.”
Submitted by Bill Di Nio