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Remembering Ridgefield's Covid Victims Dedication

Event Date: 
Wednesday, May 3, 2023 - 9:00am

Covid Tree

Remembering Ridgefield's Covid Victims
A dedication presented by the Commission on Aging
Wednesday May 3rd, 9am at the Ridgefield Historical Society

There is a tree growing in Ridgefield. It is a young Amelanchier “Autumn Brilliance” planted at the garden in front of the Town’s Historical Society located at the corner of Grove Street and Sunset Lane. Delicate white blooms are appearing for the first time since its planting last year by Steve Zemo, community volunteer and local businessman. “Once it matures in 3-5 years it will have a brilliant free form display and food for its ’neighbors’” Zemo said.

The tree is being dedicated in memory of Ridgefield’s Covid victims. Dedication of the tree will officially take place on Wednesday, May 3, 2023 at 9:00 AM. First Selectman Rudy Marconi will preside, as well as members of the Historical Society and members of the Commission on Aging. Family and friends of Covid victims are cordially invited to attend to hopefully find solace and share their grief. They may bring a single flower tribute.

The Commission on Aging acknowledges and thanks the healthcare community for educating the public and the progress it made to eradicate the pandemic. The Ridgefield Historical Society has accumulated a collection of items which it is documenting as they relate to the Covid pandemic. Lest we forget that in March 2020 the first reported victim of a coronavirus from the State of Connecticut was from Ridgefield. The pandemic spread throughout the Town where the virus targeted the most vulnerable. The total number of those lost in Ridgefield was 79.

A plaque will be placed which reads as follows: This tree was planted in memory of those in or related to the Ridgefield community whose lives were taken by the Covid 19 Pandemic. They are missed, but their spirits live on in our memories. Thank you to all who served in our community during the pandemic who helped keep our neighbors safe. Signed - The Ridgefield Commission on Aging.

Refreshments will be served at the Scott House following the ceremony.