🌱 JWMS Students Still At VRHS + Fireworks In Haddam

Hello again, everybody! It's me, Karena Garrity, your host of the Patch newsletter. Let's get this Thursday started off right with a quick dive into everything you need to know about what's happening in town these days, including updates on...

• How long will JWMS students be at VRHS?
• Help dedicate a new hiking trail.
• See fireworks in Haddam.

But first, today's weather: Mostly sunny and pleasant. High: 73 Low: 53.

Here are the top stories in Essex-Chester-Deep River today:

1. An email went out this week from Superintendent Brian White updating parents and the community about the status of Region 4's mold concerns at John Winthrop Middle School. Part of the email read, "I met with the combined faculties of John Winthrop Middle School and Valley Regional High School to provide them with an update on what to expect in the weeks ahead. I advised teachers and staff to develop four weeks of lesson plans based on our current assumption that we will remain at VRHS for at least that time frame, with the possibility of a prolonged stay at Valley likely. The Central Office administration continues to work closely with our industrial hygienist and other experts to determine the correct course of action." (Region 4 Schools)
2. You're invited to the dedication and official opening of the Rattling Ridge and Ridge Bypass Trails on Saturday, Sept. 23 at 10 a.m. Trail Tuesday Volunteers have been toiling all summer long to make this happen. Park at the Rattling Valley Ridge Preserve parking area on Essex Street (just past the bridge over Pratt Cove). Ceremonies will be across the street at the Smyth Preserve. Hope to see you there! (Patch)
3. Mark your calendars for Haddam River Days, which will be held at Haddam Meadow State Park on Saturday, Sept. 30. There will be food vendors and fireworks will go off at sunset (8 p.m.) Hope to see you there! (Facebook events)

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Today in Essex-Chester-Deep River:

Thursday, September 21

• Teen Video Game Night (5:00 PM)
• Author Talk: Mark C. Borton (7:00 PM)

From our partner:

Do you know a teacher making a difference in Essex-Chester-Deep River? Nominate them here for a Teacher Spotlight on Patch.

From my notebook:

• Town of Chester Connecticut: "This just in, register now for day pickleball at North Quarter Park, available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. in 90-minute time slots. Eight players maximum per time slot, Chester residents only, register for play up until Oct. 5." (Town of Chester Connecticut via Facebook)
• Town of Essex – Government: "Name is Beans! I am a 4-year-old male Labrador retriever. I weigh about 35 lbs. I am very friendly. I need manners training, a couch and lots of squeak toys! And I need to be adopted! Call Officer Fountain 860-391-7127." (Town of Essex – Government via Facebook)
• Ivoryton Library Association: "Register for this free 7 p.m. Oct. 3 event. Help us mark Banned Books Week." (Ivoryton Library Association via Facebook)
• Essex Fire Engine Co. #1: "Due to the inclement weather for Saturday, the Emergency Services Open House is being postponed to Sunday, Oct. 15 and the time will be 11 a.m. to 3 p.m." (Essex Fire Engine Co. #1 via Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured events:

• New Hiking Trail Opening in Deep River! (September 23)
• Electrify Your Drive! A Free EV Car Show with Owners and Dealers (September 24)
• T-Mobile Tuesdays: Get Delighted Every Week (September 26)
• Join Us For An Evening of Faith, Hope and Love! (October 14)
• Add your event

Alrighty, you're all good for today. I'll see you soon!

— Karena Garrity

About me: Journalism is in my veins. I have been a community reporter for the better part of the past 20 years. I love my community and I am honored to be a part of Patch.com. You can reach me at; karena.garrity@patch.com.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Essex-Chester-Deep River Patch newsletter? Contact me at karena.garrity@patch.com