Winter 2008
Issue

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Mary Beth Doyle
1961-2004

Dear Readers:

To say that Mary Beth Doyle led an extraordinary life is an understatement.

It is our hope that by dedicating the better part of this newsletter to essays, articles, song lyrics, photographs, and poems about Mary Beth that we will do justice to herlife story and bring honor to her memory.

We also hope our efforts will bring some measure of comfort to her family, friends, and colleagues, while offering a touch of inspiration for those who’ll carry on what she left behind – the ongoing grassroots campaigns, the global effort for healthy communities and environmental justice, and her overwhelming joy in doing what she did to make the world a better place.

Some of what you will read in these pages will make reference to Mary Beth’s memorial service and wake held on Nov. 17 in Ann Arbor. That afternoon over 500 people filled the First Unitarian Universalist Church to celebrate Mary Beth’s life with speeches, jokes, tears, music, and even dancing. Later that evening a wake was held at two downtown locations featuring non-stop music, dancing, and eating. Colleagues traveled from both coasts and Canada, family from the East Coast, and friends from as far as England, to join the service and reception.

In this special tribute, we’re publishing a remembrance written by Michigan’s long-time environmental leader and Mary Beth’s good friend, Dave Dempsey, along with several brief recollections from state and national environmental figures. We think many of you will also appreciate our special section of essays from family and friends, accompanied by original lyrics of several songs written to commemorate her life.

And while our coverage is abbreviated in this issue, we are also including articles, news, and updates on the Ecology Center’s current campaigns and issues.

Our work to protect the Earth -- Mary Beth Doyle’s work -- continues with just as much urgency as it ever has, and we ask you to join us as we rededicate ourselves to the task in her name – and spirit!

-- Ted Sylvester, Editor

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