East Haddam paints the town red, white and blue for America’s 250th

By Lauren Pszczolkowski, East Haddam Economic Development Coordinator

The East Haddam Economic Development Commission recently invited residents and businesses to show their patriotic spirit through the Paint the Town Red, White & Blue Contest, held between Memorial Day and the Fourth of July in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.

Throughout East Haddam, participants decorated their homes and businesses in red, white, and blue, helping bring the community together while honoring our country’s history.

The winner of the business category was Deep Roots Salon in Moodus, owned by Jennifer Hallock. Jennifer said it was fun to participate in the contest and that it brought her joy to hear so many customers compliment the display. Deep Roots Salon is also celebrating nine years in Moodus, making the recognition especially meaningful.

The winners of the residential category were Peter and Roberta Rutledge, who live in the Lake Hayward area of East Haddam. The couple spent a great deal of time creating an impressive and meaningful display filled with patriotic details and American history.Peter handcrafted a large American flag from PVC and hung it on the front of their home.

He explained that while growing up in the family cottage, the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were always displayed on the wall. He wanted his own display to honor his family’s deep appreciation for the law, the Constitution, and the founding principles of the United States.

Large prints of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were included in the display, along with an interactive contest for neighbors and visitors. A ballot box was set up so those walking by could submit answers to questions about the display.

The display also included a collection of license plates from across the country that Peter’s mother had collected years ago by sending away offers found on cereal boxes.Peter laughed as he explained that there were 50 license plates, although two were duplicates and one represented the District of Columbia, which is not actually a state. This became part of the challenge for visitors viewing the display.

The time, love, and passion that went into the Rutledges’ display were clear in every detail. It was not only patriotic, but also educational, personal, and welcoming to members of the community.

The competition was made possible through the generous support of Goodspeed’s Station Country Store, the East Haddam Land Trust, and Merryweather Farm, which donated prizes for the winners. First Selectman Todd Gelston was also honored to meet the winners, congratulate them personally, and recognize the time and creativity they put into their displays.

The East Haddam Economic Development Commission would like to thank everyone who participated and helped paint the town red, white, and blue. Each display helped make East Haddam feel even more festive as the community came together to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.