07/03/2024
Today, we mourn the loss of a piece of our community's heart. This beautiful mural, which graced the side of Polish American Deli was painted in July 2020 as a beacon of hope during the pandemic. Created and gifted with love, it symbolized the resilience and unity of our small town.
Sadly, and without notice, on July 2, 2024, this artwork was painted over by the property owner. While we respect his rights, the removal of this mural feels like a profound loss. This mural was not just paint on a wall—it was a gift to our town, a tribute to my family's history with the property, and a symbol of the hope and solidarity that helped us endure a challenging time.
I am deeply grateful to Diane Fredrickson and her talented daughter Annie, whose support and hard work made this mural possible. Diane, in particular, has been a co-dreamer with me and a founding member of Reimagine Runnemede. Her sensitivity and dedication have been a source of strength and inspiration for many. This news will undoubtedly be a difficult blow for her, as it has been for me.
The mural may be gone, but its memory and the hope it represented will live on in our hearts. Let us remember the beauty it brought to our streets and the smiles it inspired. Our town may be small, but to some, it's the world.
Thank you for your support and understanding as we navigate this loss together.
https://youtu.be/-QBOjQdXGH8?si=tw296FBvoqlDXTev
