To the Editor:

It felt like a bit of magic happened in Newtown when the courtyard at the Municipal Building was transformed from a large lawn area with nothing but three trees and a picnic bench to a garden with 19 different beds containing eight new trees, 486 native shrubs and perennials, and 540 spring bulbs. The magic was made possible by volunteers who dug holes and planted plants over three days, some coming multiple days, some for a few hours, but all committed to this project.

Although I cannot recognize each of these volunteers by name, I extend my heartfelt thanks to each of them. Additionally, this project would not have been possible without the Parks and Recreation crew, headed by Carl Samuelson, who prepared the site, planted the trees, dug many holes, and mulched the beds. Their support and good nature are greatly appreciated.

The garden, a project of Protect Our Pollinators, had two objectives. One was to create an additional pollinator habitat to link to other garden areas at Fairfield Hills and beyond, and secondly, to create a memorial garden for Tammy Hazen, a longtime employee at Land Use. Sarah Middeleer, landscape designer, was the perfect person to integrate these two goals into this creative and unique design.

The purchase of all plants and materials was made possible by the Jeniam Foundation and a second, anonymous donor. Without them, this project would not have become a reality.

Take a look if you are in the Fairfield Hills complex area. Come in the main entrance take the second right and the courtyard will be on your left. It looks great now, but just imagine what a treat it will be in the spring with many plants in full bloom.

My sincere thanks to all who made this garden come to life.

Mary Gaudet-Wilson

12 Whippoorwill Hill Road, Newtown October 21, 2019