Newington and Weathersfield are gearing up for a highly anticipated Thanksgiving Eve football showdown, with Newington holding a perfect 9-0 record and Weathersfield at 8-1. Local officials are preparing for a large turnout at Catone Field, coordinating with police and public services to ensure safety and adequate staffing. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and consider carpooling, as parking will be limited.

In addition to the game, the Weathersfield community is focusing on public health initiatives. The Board of Education approved the administration of the We Hope parent survey, aimed at assessing community perceptions regarding substance use and mental health. This survey follows a recent Youth Needs Assessment conducted among middle and high school students and will help inform future prevention programs.

Carissa Peckrell, the town's new prevention coordinator, emphasized the importance of gathering data to guide community planning and enhance awareness of substance use issues. The survey will target all adults in the community, not just parents, to gain a comprehensive understanding of perceptions surrounding mental health and substance use.

The town is also exploring the establishment of a medication drop box, a resource currently lacking in Weathersfield but available in neighboring communities. This initiative aims to address concerns about prescription drug misuse, particularly among youth.

As the holiday season approaches, officials extended warm wishes for a healthy and happy Thanksgiving to all families, staff, and students in Weathersfield, highlighting the community spirit that accompanies this festive time.