Its hard to believe its been 8 years since my and many of us older and long time Prospect folks benevolent and beloved friend Arleen O'Brien left this good earth in March 2006. She was only 46 years old. I was informed by a friend this week that the bench dedicated to her was just installed or dedicated quietly; hence this post. I am trying to get more information.
Regardless, many of you who didn't know Arleen would have loved her and she remains deeply ingrained in our memory.She was a highly positive person , a champion to the many hundred's if not thousands of children she took out on field walks from the Boathouse and she taught them very well , bring "joy" and smiles to enthusiastic children.(and to older folks too)
The first Sunday walks she started are now led by --Michele Dreger , Eni, Vinnie, and Neal, and in earlier days (if my memory serves me right), Paul Keim, Heidi Steiner, and Mary Eyster --is done in her memory
.After her passing, I-then BBC president- was asked to eulogize her at the Memorial at the Boathouse of which over 150 people came , including her devoted husband John Le Pore. (It was very emotional for me and for all in this very moving memorial) .The bench by the way was a gift from John as far as I know. In a fitting tribute afterwards then , I was able to get three pines from my office budget along with two other funded by her close and casual friends ,boathouse staff and others supporters , raising $5000.00 for 5 total pines. You can see those pines on Lookout Hill.( after two major storms and countless winter storms,its good to see them prospering. I call that a miracle after all those surrounding large trees falling from the 2 hurricanes). Arleen loved owls and even though its been 8 years without one there, one day , we will find an owl in her grove. The pines are a tribute to the community of birders who were like family.WE don't forget each other...
Anyway, the bench with the two plaques sit at the entrance of the East Wood Building, where the current Audubon staff work.When you pass by it, remember a truly great birder and a kind friend to many, one of the truly great Prospect birders that pass through this heavenly garden.
