9/11/2020 A Message from First Selectman Bindelglass

911

Good afternoon,

Today is September 11, 2020. We remember with sadness all those who lost their lives nineteen years ago on that fateful day and comfort all those who still mourn and miss their loved ones.  In Easton, we were particularly touched by the events of that day, losing our own Peter Hansen, his wife, Sue Kim, and their 2-year-old daughter, Christine. Our lives were forever affected that morning, as our safety and security as a country was irrevocably changed.  As our nation is again facing a great challenge, we in Easton and we in America will persevere!

School began this week and we seem to be off to a great start!  Of course there are hiccups, but overall, I think we should all be pleased.  This could only have been possible, as I have mentioned before, because of an extraordinary effort by our administrators in planning and putting all the procedures and policies in place.  Our Board of Education has provided guidance and support for their efforts.  Easton has always believed in the value of education and has always recognized the dedication, commitment and general excellence of our teachers.  During the pandemic, in the spring and now, we have asked even more of them, and they have responded.  They are there for our children as we return to hybrid in-classroom learning. I believe that the Board of Education and administration have prioritized the safety of the teachers and of our students as we reopen our schools.  Vigilance in monitoring with flexibility to deal with possible changes in the overall situation remains critical.

Saturday will be a big day in Easton. Although plans have been altered numerous times, I think we deserve a chance to celebrate Easton’s 175th Anniversary. We are a thriving, unique and wonderful town and we are all proud of that fact. The Ashlar-Aspetuck Masonic Lodge is sponsoring an outdoor town party from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday. This was planned in conjunction with Easton175. Precautions have been reviewed by the Westport Weston Health District’s Director, Mark Cooper.

You have come to know my views as your First Selectman and also a doctor, regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.  I am inherently very conservative and safety minded when it comes to the virus.  I have thought long about the safety of this event.  I have also observed the conduct of people in town these last, very difficult 6 months.  My best judgment is that at this time, we should allow ourselves the opportunity to observe Easton’s Anniversary. I trust each and every member of this community to do all the right things to protect themselves, each other, and our town.  The Lodge has made great efforts implement conservative protective procedures and protocols to keep this event safe and I applaud their efforts.  Our job is now to observe those rules as we enjoy ourselves as a town.   As always, wear your masks and social distance.  And have fun!  The day will be capped off with a fireworks display at Samuel Staples Elementary School, sponsored by our EMS. Doors open at 7:45 p.m. and the fireworks begin at 8:30p.m.  Please be sure to follow the safety measures that are in place. This should be a great event for all and a great finish to the day’s festivities.  For more info on these events, go to www.easton175.com .

The end of September marks the end of the 2020 US Census.  An accurate census is critical for any number of reasons from representation in Congress to funding for many federal programs and more.  It is actually mandated in our US Constitution.  If you need information about how to participate, please call 844-330-2020 or go to www.2020census.gov .

One of our local businesses, JM Candee Sanitation was featured nationally on Good Morning America.  Here is the link: https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/GMA3/video/family-sanitation-business-cleans-.... This family owned business has been a part of our town for many, many years through many generations.  Congratulations!

I am honored and lucky to be Easton’s First Selectman on this momentous occasion.  We all have so much to be proud of in our heritage and in what Easton is today. Congratulations to all of us and enjoy!

Dave Bindelglass
fireworks