| Help Make the Legacy of
the Robinsons Live On As most of you know, Fran and Frank Robinson began their
long, hard battle in 1963 to make certain that Upper Newport Bay would remain a public
treasure for future generations to enjoy forever. If not for the success of these two
"local heroes" the Back Bay most likely would have become just another marina
surrounded by houses. Now that both Fran and Frank have passed away, it’s time for
all of us to recognize their incredible accomplishment by contributing to a lasting
tribute to their efforts.
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| After Fran’s death, we consulted with Frank and his son Jay to find a suitable
site at the Bay that would permanently recognize this major accomplishment. Frank made it
clear he wanted more than a memorial - he wanted something that would serve the
recreational, educational and aesthetic needs of the surrounding community. With the help
of architect Ron Yeo, Department of Fish and Game Land Manager, Brian Shelton and designer
Jim Cokas, a raised seating platform with a capacity of 40-50 people was selected for
location at Vista Point. The site will include a permanent display with a plaque of
appreciation of the Robinsons. As you know, Vista Point, at the junction of East Bluff and
Back Bay Drives, has been the meeting point for the "Friends" guided tours for
more than 30 years. View pdf file of design . We ask that you
contribute today to the Robinson Memorial Fund and help make Back Bay Vista Point a
reality. Our plan is to have this project completed before the conclusion of the 2003-4
Friends season of guided tours in March of 2004. Your gift of $25, $50, $100 or more will
be your "thank-you" for all the Robinsons have meant for the preservation of the
Bay. You can be part of not only the memories of the past but also the perpetuation of the
Robinsons’ vision of the future of the Bay as a community treasure for generations to
come.
Checks may be mailed to NBNF, P. O. Box 10804, Newport Beach, CA 92658. Thank you for
your support.
Jack Keating
President. |
