Mourning a life I didn't know

Today a person that I didn't really know a lot about passed away. But in the reporting of her life, I realized that this person did a lot for Austin and America. Lady Bird Johnson passed a way at the ripe old age of 94. Living in Austin, I have heard about Ms. Johnson, but at most I knew about her wildflower park and that she lived near Austin. I know, I'm quite up to date on my political information :) Anywho, while I am watching the report on Ms Johnson's passing I learned that she had a key role in keeping Austin and America beautiful. She had quite the legacy and it appeared that she was modest the entire time. I fully admit that I am learning about her through the media and what they are reporting, so I am assuming that they are reporting the truth (I know that might be a stretch!). Here are some things that I learned:

In 1965 Ms Johnson helped pass an Act called the Highway Beautification Act, which removed excess billboards and added plants to rest stops. I think it is an excellent idea, and can appreciate the lack of commercialism along highways. Personally I would rather see nature than advertisements.

In 1971 she started the Town Lake Beautification project which added trees and revitalized the area around Town Lake. Town Lake is an awesome area for people and critters of all ages to go to enjoy the outdoors and (or) exercise. Since the day I moved to Austin, I have loved to go to Austin. Taylor has especially loved to go since it gives her the opportunity to swim in Town Lake.

In 1977 she received the Medal of Freedom, which is the highest civilian award, for all of her environmental work.

in 1982 she founded the National Wildflower Research Center, which is a non-profit environmental organization dedicated to the preservation and reestablishment of native plants in natural and planned landscapes (news8austin.com). I haven't been to the Wildflower center, but I have wanted to check it out for a couple of years.

I guess I am feeling as if I am just learning of a lady who spent a lot of her life trying to improve the lives of Americans. Based on the coverage that she is receiving I think that she will always be known as a person who made a huge difference during her life.

Thanks to news8austin.com for the information!