First Selectman’s Report: 10/24 - 10/28/2022

Happy National First Responders Day!!
1. Today, we honor the firefighters, law enforcement personnel, EMS employees, 911 telecommunicators, hospital and medical staff, volunteers, and all others who serve the public as first responders in the event of an emergency. We are forever grateful for your service and dedication. Happy National First Responders Day!!
 
2. You, and your family, are invited to join us as we proudly open the new Playground at the Colchester RecPlex, located at 215 Old Hebron Road, Colchester, CT. The grand opening will be held on Saturday, October 29th at 11:00 AM, and cake will be served!
 
3. Trick or Trunk will be held Saturday, October 29th, at the Bacon Academy Parking Lot from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. DJ Montez will be spinning the ghoulish beats. And, of course, your First Selectman will be there too!
 
4. This Halloween, Monday, October 31st, come visit the First Selectman’s Office for treats and ghoulish surprises. It will be a monster mash with a Transylvanian twist.
 
5. A Town Meeting on the Town Budget will be on Wednesday, November 2nd, at 6:30 PM at Town Hall in Meeting Room 1. The Town Budget Referendum will be held Tuesday, November 15th, from 6 AM to 8 PM at Town Hall. An approved town budget would result in a new mill rate of 26.82 mills. For more information, follow this link: https://www.colchesterct.gov/2022-2023-budget-information 
 
6. Colchester’s Openness to Respecting Equity (CORE) is looking to fill a vacant position. We are looking for open-minded candidates, who can engage and pleasantly share diverse opinions, and are willing and able to work with everyone. If you are interested in applying, please apply to the First Selectman’s Office. Applications can be found here: https://www.colchesterct.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif4286/f/uploads/boardsco...
 
7. Let Cugno’s Farm sweeten your life with their local honey. Did you know that honey is the only food on earth that never spoils? Honey contains amino acids, vitamins, minerals, iron, zinc, and antioxidants. In addition to its use as a natural sweetener, honey is also used as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial agent.  
If USDA-certified organic is important to you, then Cugno’s Farm is also the place to go. This farm offers include beef, pork, chicken, onions, shallots, salad mix, and canned goods. Cugno Farm is open by appointment and will be happy to accommodate you if you call them directly at 860-908-7778. They are located at 110 Prospect Hill Road in Colchester on 75 scenic acres. They are easily accessible from Old Hartford Road near exit 17, off Route 2. Farm tours are available for those who want to know their farmer and learn more about the origins of their food. Support our local farms who work the land in Colchester, providing us with fresh food, bucolic settings, and expansive open space.
 
8. Scouting for Food – Fall 2022
Bag Pickup – On Saturday, October 29th, please leave your donation at the end of your driveway or by your mailbox by 9:00 AM. The Scouts will begin bag pickup at that time.
We hope that you will be able to contribute at least one nonperishable food item. We will, of course, accept as many items as you are able to contribute.
All items are appreciated, but there is a particular need for jelly, pasta sauce, breakfast items, canned pasta, healthy snacks, & canned vegetables. Other helpful items include macaroni and cheese, beverages, instant potatoes, rice, and pasta side dishes. Personal care items, baby wipes & diapers are always needed (laundry detergent, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, & feminine hygiene products). Please, no glass containers, opened packages, or expired food.
Thank you for your generosity. May the upcoming holiday season be happy for one and all.
 
 
 
Andreas Bisbikos
First Selectman