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Smiles Everywhere

I’d like to thank the hundreds of people who turned out in cars, trucks, SUVs, convertibles, classic autos, minivans, and of course fire trucks, police cars, and ambulances to celebrate Eileen and Tom Banisch Appreciation Day on Feb. 21. It was a beautiful, chilly day, but no one seemed to notice. There were smiles everywhere!

It was a great day in Madison and we were very honored. We saw friends, some we haven’t seen in a while, and people we know from around town who turned out to show their appreciation. It was a happy, emotional day. Since then, we’ve received countless letters from people who couldn’t be there, offering good wishes.

Similarly, I would like to thank all of the people who have worked cooperatively over the years in the town and in different organizations to make Madison the place that it is. While we received accolades, nothing would have been accomplished without the synergy that came from our collective efforts to do great things for our town. I can’t begin to list those people and groups, but they deserve the credit for what has been achieved.

I’d like to leave the people of Madison with two thoughts: First, understand and appreciate the efforts of your town employees. They make the town what it is. From those in Town Hall to those who maintain our roads and fields to those who protect us, even as volunteers, please recognize their contributions.

Second, I want to warn them not to let politics rule their town. Special interests should never outweigh the town’s best interests. If that happens, Madison surely won’t remain the place it is.

We’re leaving this state that can’t seem to help itself with mixed emotions, but we’re incredibly excited about a new adventure in a warmer climate.

Tom Banisch

Madison