🌱May The 4th Be With You + Region Budget Vote Numbers Are In

Hello, friends. I'm here with your fresh copy of the Essex-Chester-Deep River Patch newsletter. Keep reading to find out all the things you need to know about what's going on in town, including updates on:

• It's the 40th Anniversary, can you believe it?
• The numbers are in.
• Mark your calendars now for the Shad Bake!

But first, today's weather: Cloudy, a shower or two; cool. High: 52 Low: 42.

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

1. Today is a very special day in history, it is the 40th anniversary of "Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi", which was originally released on May 25, 1983. To commemorate this historic event the Essex Public Library is hosting a free "Star Wars"-themed scavenger hunt in its children's room through May 6. Guests who find all the hidden characters will receive a prize. (Essex Library)
2. The Region 4 Budget results are in. According to information listed on the Town of Essex website, in the town of Essex, 486 yes votes and 103 no votes; in the town of Chester, 304 yes votes and 151 no votes; and in the town of Deep River, 323 yes votes and 246 no votes. The total number of votes was 1113 yes votes and 500 no votes. The Region 4 Field Project results are in the town of Essex, 437 yes votes and 150 no votes; in the town of Chester, 237 yes votes and 220 no votes; and in the town of Deep River, 261 yes votes and 309 no votes. The total number of votes was 935 yes votes and 679 no votes. (Essex, CT)
3. Mark your calendars now for the Rotary Club of Essex Shad Bake, which is returning this year after a three-year hiatus. The event is set to take place on June 3 from 1 to 6:30 p.m. at Brewer Esse Island Marina. This important culinary tradition was started in 1958 and is a classic spring ritual of the Connecticut Shoreline. For more information click here. (Essexct.com)

From our sponsor:

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Today in Essex-Chester-Deep River:

• Children's Book Week: Star Wars Scavenger Hunt (9:00 AM)
• Birder on Berry Lane Author Talk (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Essex Board of Trade: "Next weekend! Essex Garden Club." (Essex Board of Trade via Facebook)
• Essex Board of Trade: "Who is Spectrum Art Gallery and Artisan Store? Founded in 2003 by executive director Barbara Nair The Arts Center Killingworth is an IRS-approved 501 (c) (3) arts organization. The Arts Center operated Spectrum Gallery and Artisans Store in Centerbrook provides classes, workshops, and exhibits. We love our artists, our customers, and the work we do. So, please help us continue our mission and support us during this Great Give fundraising drive Support Our Mission During The Great Give starts May 3, 8 a.m." (Essex Board of Trade via Facebook)
• Town of Essex – Government: "Join us for the Annual Budget Town Meeting on Monday, May 8 at 7:30 p.m. For information go to www.essexct.gov." (Town of Essex – Government via Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured events:

• SMOS Meeting May 5, 2023: First Selectmen’s Mtg (select Shoreline Towns) (May 5)
• Open House for Outdoor School (May 6)
• T-Mobile Tuesdays: Fresh Perks Every Week (May 9)
• Dancing and Great Food with String of Pearls Big Band! (May 12)
• Micro Shorts presented by Shoreline Playwrights in Collaboration with Drama Works Theatre (May 19)
• Add your event

You're all caught up for today. I'll be back in your inbox tomorrow morning with your next update!

— 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