GOVERNOR CHARLIE CRIST NAMES RUSS DELANEY OF SARASOTA AS POINT OF LIGHT
March 26, 2008
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GOVERNOR'S PRESS OFFICE
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TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist today recognized Russ Delaney as this week’s Point of Light for outstanding volunteerism in honor of Environmental Awareness Month. Russ volunteers with the Oscar Scherer State Park and contributed 1,638 volunteer hours in 2007.
“Russ’s dedication to the Oscar Scherer State Park truly exemplifies the spirit of environmental awareness,” said Governor Crist. “His dedication and hard work has improved the park for all Floridians to enjoy.”
Russ Delaney’s dedication to the Oscar Scherer State Park can be seen throughout the park. He maintains all the trails in the park regularly by clearing trails and repairing footbridges. For the Department of Environmental Protection’s Get REAL program, Russ coordinated an effort to build butterfly hatching boxes at the nature center and Ranger station to hatch butterflies and educate the public.
In 2007, Russ coordinated the first All Trails Hike, a hiking event to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Oscar Scherer State Park. The proceeds from the event supported the park’s efforts to aid and preserve the habitat for the Florida scrub jay, a threatened species. Russ also attends meetings and conferences to promote the park on its path to becoming this bird’s refuge.
“As a member of the park’s citizen support organization and volunteer, Russ’s workmanship and proactive innovation are greatly appreciated at Oscar Scherer,” said DEP Director of Recreation and Parks Mike Bullock. “His hard work and dedication to the park’s livelihood is demonstrated through contributions such as the creation of All Trails Hike and his commitment to making the trails in the park accessible to everyone.”
The Governor’s Points of Light Award, sponsored by Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises, recognizes a Florida resident who demonstrates exemplary service to the community. Award recipients are announced weekly. A panel of judges comprised of leaders in the areas of volunteerism and service evaluate all nominations and make recommendations to the Governor. The Volunteer Florida Foundation manages the program. For more information, or to nominate, go to www.VolunteerFloridaFoundation.org.
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