Celebrated annually throughout Chester, Deep River, and Essex, High on Life week will this year be observed May 1 to 7 as per the three first selectmen, Lauren Gister, Richard Smith and Norm Needleman, who have signed the Proclamation.

Multiple sectors of the community contribute in various ways to make the substance abuse awareness and prevention week a success, including schools, the faith community, the business community, and others. Events planned for the week are described in the High on Life brochures that are available in town halls, libraries, throughout the faith community, at Tri-Town Youth Services, and elsewhere.

This year’s High on Life week is the 27th awareness week organized by Tri-Town Youth Services. While many old favorites such as window painting in Deep River will be featured, there are several new dimensions this year. For the first time, there is a digital version of the High on Life brochure in addition to the printed version. The digital brochure can be accessed on Tri-Town’s website www.tritownys.org. Also, Tri-Town has partnered with Ivoryton Public Library and the Essex Lions Club to offer free vision screenings. This free event will be held at the Ivoryton Library on Wednesday, May 4 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. On Thursday, May 5, Allison Abramson, Tri-town’s parent resource coordinator, will offer Screen-Free Family Fun: Show Me a Story! from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Essex Public Library.

Tri-Town Youth Services supports and advances the families, youth, and communities of Chester, Deep River, and Essex. It coordinates and provides resources needed to make positive choices, reduce substance abuse, and strengthen the relationships that matter most. For more information, visit www.tritownys.org.