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ORDER OF THE BOARD OF ALDERS DESIGNATING THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF REDFIELD STREET AND COLUMBUS AVENUE AS "JERRY J. BELL CORNER" IN PERPETUITY, FOR HIS LOVE, COMMITMENT, GREAT CONTRIBUTIONS AND SERVICE TO PEOPLE IN THE HILL NEIGHBORHOOD.
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WHEREAS, Jerry Jay Bell, fondly known as "Mr. Bell," was born on February 20, 1929, in New Bern, North Carolina, and later made New Haven his home in 1956; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Bell dedicated his life to building stronger communities by becoming a homeowner in the Hill Neighborhood, working with numerous organizations including the Housing Authority, Veterans Hospital, Jewish Home for the Aged, and Staff Builders; and
WHEREAS, his tireless volunteerism through New Haven Urban Recourses Initiative, New Haven Land Trust, Democratic Town Committee, beautification of city parks, establishing neighbor vegetable gardens, building block groups to improve community safety, extended to teaching art to children, playing drums, assisting community dance groups, promoting civic engagement through voter registration, and leading initiatives that uplifted and empowered his neighbors; and
WHEREAS, for over 30 years, Mr. Bell served as the Garden Coordinator of Redfield Street, transforming a former dumping site into a thriving community garden, and for many years, provided fresh produce and guidance to the Ageless Mature Adults group, inspiring healthier eating and community bonds; and
WHEREAS, in 2023, Mr. Bell was honored as Senior Volunteer of the Year, a testament to his lifetime of selfless service and dedication;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE ORDERED by the New Haven Board of Alders that in honor of his many contributions and great services to the Hill neighborhood and citywide, the corner of Redfield Street and Columbus Avenue is designated as "Jerry J. Bell Corner" in perpetuity, making his legacy in New Haven stand as an official and permanent reminder of integrity, love, generosity, and dignity.
BE IT FURTHER ORDERED that the De...
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