Hastings receives “Friend of the National Parks” Award
By Evan Polisar
Washington, D.C. — Recent, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) made the following statement after being honored by the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) with their “Friend of the National Parks” Award:
“It is truly an honor to once again receive the NCPA’s ‘Friend of the National Parks’ Award. I take great pride in our national parks system and am privileged to have the opportunity to support our parks as a Member of Congress.
“Our parklands preserve the natural beauty of this nation. Throughout the years, they have inspired and captured the imaginations of countless Americans. Our national parks are also economic anchors to the communities they border, driving tourism and providing jobs for thousands.”
“I am also proud to co-chair the Congressional Everglades Caucus, and will continue to work with the NCPA to raise awareness of the need for environmental preservation and protection. The safety of our parklands is not guaranteed, and issues of air pollution and climate change must be addressed before they take an irrevocable toll. Unless we act together to preserve these majestic places, we may lose them forever. It is critical that Congress support both national and local conservation efforts, as well as funding for our national park system, to ensure that they are preserved and accessible for generations to come.”
Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Senior Member of the House Rules Committee, Ranking Democratic Member of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation.
