Essex Park & Recreation held its inaugural Community Appreciation Day on Aug. 28 at Viney Hill Brook Park in Essex. This special event was also a celebration of Viney Hill Brook Park as a great place for residents to relax and enjoy themselves. A sand-castle-building contest for kids kicked off the event, with Mary Ellen Barnes of Park & Recreation and First Selectman Phil Miller judging the sandy works of art. The day also featured a refreshment area with snow cones, popcorn, hotdogs donated by Stop & Shop, and lemonade, plus entertainment by Pete & Company. The Park & Recreation Commission, which sponsored the event, was on hand to thank the community organizations for giving back to Essex. The commission also discussed the future Essex Basketball Center and answered any Park & Recreation-related questions. The Park & Recreation Department plans to continue the tradition next year. Photo courtesy of Rick Audet