Concrete plans

Blakeslee Construction, O&G lend support to senior garden

TORRINGTON — July 9 was another hot and steamy day in Torrington, but that didn’t stop a small band of volunteers from completing a mission — pouring a new concrete floor for the pavilion at the Sullivan Senior Center Gardens den, also known as the Bowman Community Gardens, early that morning.

The gardens were constructed by students from Oliver Wolcott Tech for the Sullivan Senior Center. A new pavilion now has a concrete floor, allowing visitors a sheltered space to enjoy the gar- on Mountain Road.

Sonny Blakeslee, who is retiring from Blakeslee Construction, made pouring the concrete his last task, donating his time and some fellow employees to do the job.

“Rich Boulli was instrumental in securing workers and concrete

for this job,” said Janet Recidivi, who was also at the garden to see the floor poured.

“Sonny volunteered his services as did Egidio Recidivi, who used to work with (Sonny’s) father, Vern Blakeslee, and at O&G before he retired several years ago,” she said.

Recidivi noted that O&G Contruction, based in Torrington, donated the concrete for the floor, completing the pavilion that OWTS built for the senior garden.

On the senior center’s web page, members said, “We are very proud of the progression of the Bowman Community Gardens. With gardeners planting 60 beds and the support of friends in the community and local business, the gardens have evolved into one of Torrington's best kept secrets. The gardens not only provide space for growing vegetables and flowers, they promote socialization, exercise and healthy eating.” Learn more by calling the senior center at 860489-2211.

Kerry Palmer / Contributed photo Sonny Blakeslee, center, works on the newly poured concrete at the Bowman Gardens in Torrington. He is joined by Rich Boulli, left, and a volunteer.

Kerry Palmer / Contributed photo Sonny Blakeslee, right, donated his services to the senior garden paving project. Here he is with one of his employees, Egidio Recidivi, on July 9.