April 2 was spring cleanup day in Ridgefield. Dumpsters and garbage trucks were lined up at the high school to collect all manner of former treasures. As we sat dutifully in line, contemplating the hideous green lamp in the truck up ahead, a guy from Ridgefield Public Works strolled by to make sure we were in the correct lane. After they unloaded the paint cans and the broken fax machine, we were directed to the lady from the utility billing department, who sent us to the line managed by the finance director, who in turn directed us to a massive dumpster. Another city employee unloaded the ancient stepladder, while the chief of police dragged out the busted pressure washer. As we headed for the exit, we saw a couple of other familiar faces unloading other cars and trucks.
No cameras, no fanfare, no placards. Just public employees and other volunteers giving up part of their weekend to make Ridgefield a little cleaner and a little safer. In other parts of the community, people were planting trees, pulling weeds, coaching kids, helping vets and delivering meals.
The next time you run into a volunteer, tell them thanks. Or better yet, join them.
John Dingethal
Ridgefield
