GOVERNOR CHARLIE CRIST TO NAME RENEE BLANEY OF MARION COUNTY AS POINT OF LIGHT
April 10, 2008
Contact:
GOVERNOR'S PRESS OFFICE
(850) 488-5394
TALLAHASSEE — Governor Charlie Crist today will recognize Renee Blaney as this week’s Point of Light for outstanding volunteerism in honor of Environmental Awareness Month. As president of the Ocala Mountain Bike Association, Renee regularly contributes to the development and maintenance of bike trails on the Cross Florida Greenway. Governor Crist will present the award during a Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra reception at the Governor’s Mansion.
“Renee’s dedication has improved the Cross Florida Greenway’s natural beauty and usefulness,” said Governor Crist. “She is taking an active role in preserving the trail and making it safer, gaining the respect of Floridians and her mountain biking peers worldwide.”
Renee worked with the International Mountain Bicycling Association and the Office of Greenways and Trails to develop an extensive off-road bike trail network. She also established a volunteer bike patrol to enhance the safety of the trails. Each year, Renee helps coordinate the annual Spring Break Fat Tire Festival, attracting more than 300 riders to the Cross Florida Greenway’s bike trail network. In 2006, the International Mountain Bicycling Association designated the Santos portion of the trail as an Epic Ride, “something worth celebrating and making a special trip.”
“We are extremely pleased that Renee Blaney has received this recognition for her leadership of the Ocala Mountain Bike Association volunteers who contributed more than 2,800 hours in 2007,“ said Department of Environmental Protection Office of Greenways and Trails Director Jena B. Brooks. “Thanks in great measure to Renee’s example and dedication, the Cross Florida Greenway’s 115 miles of mountain bike trails are well maintained and enjoy a highly respected international reputation.”
The Governor’s Points of Light Award, sponsored by Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises, recognizes a Florida resident that 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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