Ida at Plum Island, undated.

The Board of Directors is pleased to announce 73 donations were received totaling $5,615 which far exceeded the goal set. 100% of the funds will go to Mass Audubon’s Ipswich River Sanctuary per Ida’s wish where their bird feeding station and bird garden area will be enhanced and expanded behind the new classroom.  It will include native plants, a nice fence to keep the deer out, and additional bird feeders and possibly a water feature.  The area will be observable from both inside the classroom and from the trail behind the classroom.  A fitting tribute to Ida who loved birds and this sanctuary.  Thanks to everyone who generously contributed;  donors will be notified of the dedication as the work is completed later this year.

Ida was a force of nature, fierce and passionate about birding. She led and participated in many trips for the Brookline Bird Club, serving as a trip leader and past president and board member, spearheading the nationally known BBC pelagic birding program and making an annual trip to Machias, Maine for Atlantic Puffins and other Downeast specialties. Dedicated to birding, she was happy to share those experiences with those new to the birding world, the BBC and others. Those of us who knew her appreciated her directness, sense of humor and hearty laugh. Her years of service have been invaluable helping to make birding in New England the joy that it is.