Kenosha News

Nice Job, Neighbor

In a predominantly industrial area on Kenosha’s north side there is a bright spot at 4216 13th Court. And within that bright spot is an ever brighter presence: Jessica Ulrey-Rodriguez.

Jessica and her husband, David Rodriguez, share the neatly kept gray frame house accented with white and charcoal gray. The front yard showcases a colorful mix of annuals, perennials and flowering shrubs. Pots of petunias, swan garden ornaments and a decorative wooden bridge are tucked in among the plantings.

Jessica maintains the garden areas and landscaping on her own. While this may not be an exceptional achievement under ordinary circumstances, Jessica’s circumstances are not quite ordinary. She is a two-time cancer survivor. “Gardening puts my mind at ease,” she said.

David agrees that her time in the yard has proven to be very therapeutic. “Yes, she really does it all on her own,” he said. When pressed, he admitted to helping by digging the occasional hole and providing some heavy lifting. However, he is proud of Jessica’s accomplishments in the garden and in life.

“She is waiting now for another surgery,” he said. “But she’s still out there working all the time.”

Jessica’s gardening genes apparently were passed on from her grandmother along with some of the swan garden ornaments.

“She collects Indian artifacts, but that’s inside the house,” David said. “Outside it’s the swans.”

In life, these birds display a certain serenity and perhaps that peace and tranquility is shared with Jessica when she spends time among then in the garden.

Earthy green scents, fresh air and lively colors all serve to brighten the day for Jessica and her neighbors alike. The vibrant orange of the cosmos flowers waving a greeting to visitors at the base of the driveway can serve to improve anyone’s day.

Awarding her a Nice Job, Neighbor doorhanger, Jessica’s neighbors all wish her happy gardening and continued good health. They applaud her efforts and her positive attitude. Nice Job, Neighbor!

“Nice Job, Neighbor” is sponsored by Keep Kenosha Beautiful. These articles are written by Lynda Guy. If you would like to acknowledge the appearance of the home, business or yard of a neighbor, you can get a “Nice Job, Neighbor” door tag at Spiegelhoff’s SuperValu, 3401 80th St.; Paielli’s Bakery, 6020 39th Ave.; The Coffee Pot, 4914 Seventh Ave.; Franks Diner, 508 58th St.; Southwest Library, 7979 38th Ave.; Carolyn’s Coffee Connection, 1351 52nd St.; Suburban Garden Center, 2704 30th Ave.; and Kenosha’s public works department in the municipal building, 625 52nd St. To receive a door hanger by mail or to obtain a display for your business, call 262-653-4064.