Rooted in love
Brooks employees to wed beneath Copper Beech
Today, Brooks’ Copper Beech will hold new significance for one couple. Longtime hospital employees, Alex Vega and Jennifer Erick, will tie the knot beneath its grand splendor.
“There’s nothing more lovely than that tree covered in snow,” said Alex, emergency department PCA. “It’s meaningful to us,” he added.
While discussing potential outdoor locations for the impending nuptials, the groom-to-be proposed the notion the couple exchange vows at their home away from home: Brooks.
Jennifer, who works as a patient access technician in the hospital’s imaging department, favored this idea above and beyond all others they considered over the past three years, including the option of a wedding in Japan. Beaming with a bride’s joy, she said, “When Alex came up with the idea, I agreed immediately. It made perfect sense. This hospital is a significant part of our lives.”
Brooks’ Copper Beech was planted in between 1945-1947 in memory of local physician and philanthropist, Abraham Wilson Dods, for whom the present day SUNY Fredonia athletic building is also named. The tree’s original receipt, on display at the Dunkirk Historical Museum, establishes a 3-inch caliper was purchased for an amount of $75. Today, the tree stands over 75 feet tall and is a priceless treasure in this couple’s eyes.
Vega and Erick have been together for 12 years and recently purchased a home in Dunkirk. A ceremony will take place at 4:30 p.m. today in front of the hospital at 529 Central Ave. in Dunkirk.
Congratulations, Alex and Jennifer. May your marriage be as sturdy, rooted, and wind-tolerant as the enchanting 72-year old Copper Beech.
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