September 20, 2012
57 Fest A Celebration of Colchester
This Saturday at 4PM (with a rain date on Sunday), Colchester will once again celebrate all that we have achieved as a community at our 8th annual 57 Fest. Colchester is much more than just a town, we are a community that has accomplished much throughout the years and it is fitting that we take a moment to celebrate what we have been able to build.
For me, the celebration recognizes where we have come from over the last few decades. As a native Colcestrian, it has been remarkable to watch this town evolve. I remember a just handful of traffic lights, half the schools we have today, and a population of just a few thousand. A good school system, strong sense of community, and incredible volunteers have led us to where we are today.
As we begin the celebration, I want to thank everyone that either contributed to our success or is working now for the betterment of Colchester. Those of you that serve on a town board, volunteer for the Colchester Hayward Volunteer Fire Department, or participate in one of the many great local organizations are all part of our ongoing success. Something special has happened in this town and you all deserve a little of the credit.
The 57 Fest is for all of us and what we have achieved together. So take an hour or two to come down with your family and celebrate this weekend. We have a lot in store for everyone including food, displays, information booths, children’s activities, and much more. Of course, the entire celebration ends at 8PM with a fantastic fireworks display!
Collaborative Still Going Strong
One of the strongest aspects of our community is our focus on children. The Collaborative for Colchester’s Children (C3) is continuing their efforts to focus on children birth through age 8. So much of a child’s potential is formed well before they enter the school system. Studies have shown that it is critical for children to develop properly from the youngest age. As time goes on, it becomes more and more difficult to fix developmental issues that could have been corrected sooner.
To date, C3 has had a number of successes. They have created a resource directory, supported a bookmobile, increased pre-k attendance in town, amongst many other achievements. In order to continue their success and impact on Colchester, C3 is actively working on a sustainability plan along with other focused initiatives.
If you are interested in learning more about the organization or the resources available to parent’s please go to www.colchesterc3.org . There is no manual on how to raise a child as each one is different. However, this organization can point parents in the right direction and lead you to assistance you may not know existed.
- Gregg Schuster
First Selectman
Previous Selectman Notes can be viewed at
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