First Selectman Ellen Scalettar recognized community garden members Dr. Sharon de Kadt and Dr. Durga Prasad as the June Woodbridge Person of the Month. Scalettar initiated the Woodbridge Person of the Month recognition program to spotlight the many Woodbridge residents, volunteers and employees who go above and beyond the expected in their dedication and commitment to Woodbridge and its residents.
In addition to gardening at the Town-owned community gardens, both de Kadt and Prasad have taken a further step by providing a tranquil space for the public to rest and enjoy the gardens.
“The community gardens are one of the jewels of Woodbridge and many residents, myself included, appreciate Sharon and Durga making their gardens open to the public and providing seating for people to enjoy the beautiful surroundings,” said Scalettar.
De Kadt gardens in three plots, and her newest was designed for the public to enjoy. De Kadt had many dahlia bulbs but nowhere to plant them so she took over a neglected garden plot that was a jumble of weeds. She and her husband spent many hours removing weeds and rocks before they could plant the dahlia bulbs. They then added other perennials and paths that meander through the garden plot.
Prasad has two plots – a private one for vegetables and a public one for roses that he planted in memory of his wife, Shanti. Shanti spent more than 20 years planting and caring for vegetables, herbs and flowers in that plot before she passed away. Prasad turned the plot into a rose garden for the public to enjoy.
“Sometimes people are hesitant to come inside, but I want to make sure the public knows that the rose garden is open for them to enjoy,” he said.
“We are encouraging people to wander the gardens and linger,” added de Kadt about both their efforts to invite the public to their plots.
Recently the Board of Selectmen adopted a new policy for the community gardens which creates a slightly more formal process. Details are on the Town’s website. For residents interested in renting a plot at the community gardens, an application form is also on the Town’s website, woodbridgect.org.
If you know a Woodbridge employee, resident or volunteer who’s gone above and beyond expectations, please nominate that person for this award by contacting Betsy Yagla at byagla@woodbridgect.org or 203-389-3403.