Alert — and nature-loving — “06880” reader Rita Corridon writes:
I don’t know know his name. But I see an older gentleman, who owns a little scruffy wired-haired dog at Winslow Park all the time.
During this past year I noticed that every time he was there he was “tidying” some fallen branches, or removing invasive vines from trees. I thought it was a little odd, and kept walking.
A few months ago I noticed how remarkably cleaned up the wooded areas looked — especially considering the number of storms that had hit Westport, and what a mess they make at Winslow. Then I realized it was probably all cleaned up by this one person!
A “cleanup collage” by Rita Corridon. “And this is only one path. There are many more!” she marvels.
I decided that the next time I spotted him I would say something — at least a thank you. When I finally saw him, I mentioned what an unbelievable job he was doing, and how nice the park looked.
He said he takes his dog to the park at least once a day, every day. That’s 365 days a year, so why not do a little cleanup each time?
I thanked him again, and went on with my walk.
It’s pretty impressive what one person doing a little work each day has accomplished. You should check it out yourself.
I’m pretty sure every single pile of branches neatly stacked throughout the park is his doing. Not to mention all the vines he has pulled off tress!
Dog owners at Winslow sometimes get a bad rap, even though it’s usually only a handful of irresponsible owners. I think it’s nice to shed the light on one person doing something really nice, for everyone in the community.
Absolutely, Rita. Our Unsung Hero this week is unnamed — but much admired and appreciated!
(To nominate an Unsung Hero, email dwoog@optonline.net)