[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 152 (Friday, November 22, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2121]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      IN MEMORY OF ELIZABETH HIRD

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 22, 2002

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today 
to pay tribute to one of the most generous and giving community members 
I have had the pleasure of knowing. In life, Elizabeth Hird was beloved 
by all of those whose lives she touched--a true community treasure.
  An artist, community leader and active conservationist, Elizabeth was 
a pioneer in the local efforts for environmental preservation and 
education--dedicating her time and energies to ensure that our natural 
resources would be protected for future generations to enjoy. A 
founding member, and later, director and president of the Killingworth 
Land Conservation Trust, Elizabeth worked hard to make the public aware 
of all nature could teach them. She was instrumental in the creation of 
the Platt Nature Center for environmental education which offers 
programs throughout the summer to young children. Through these 
programs, children are able to participate in a variety of activities 
where they learn to identify the wild flowers and wild life of the 
area. At part of the last days activities, children were invited to 
Outer Island, one of the Thimble Islands off the Connecticut coastline, 
where Elizabeth and her late husband, Basil Rauch, owned a home. 
Elizabeth hosted the event and children were encouraged to explore the 
island and the many creatures which call the island home. A unique 
experience for so many, children of all ages looked forward to this 
special opportunity.
  In 1995, in honor of her husband, Elizabeth donated Outer Island to 
the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to become an environmental 
research and education center and part of the Stewart B. McKinney 
National Wildlife Refuge. Today, students of all ages, from elementary 
to graduate school, have access to the island and the endless lessons 
it provides. It was just over one year ago that I joined Elizabeth to 
announce the establishment of the Outer Island Endowment Fund--a 
renewed commitment to the preservation of Outer Island, its diverse 
wildlife, and educational opportunities for our community's young 
people. In speaking to Elizabeth that day, I knew that her dream for 
Outer Island had been realized and I was proud to join in the 
celebration of her vision.
  I am honored to stand today in memory of Elizabeth Hird and express 
my deepest thanks and appreciation for all that she has given to our 
community. Elizabeth was truly a unique individual who has left an 
indelible mark on our community. Hers is a legacy which will continue 
to inspire many for generations to come.

                          ____________________