Department Of Interior

Office of the Secretary
Contact: Kathryn Harrington
For Immediate Release: September 9, 2004
202-208-6502
 
Secretary Norton Designates Eugene, Ore. as Take Pride in America® City
 

(Washington, D.C.) - Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton announced today that Eugene, Ore. has been designated a Take Pride in America City and recognized as the first in the state of Oregon. A Take Pride in America City designation is bestowed upon a city or municipality that supports the mission and goals of Take Pride. The city then agrees to annually sponsor two or more volunteer events such as an award ceremony or a clean-up event in its community.

"In communities large and small, the nation's mayors are rallying citizen volunteers to help maintain and improve our public lands," said Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton. "Take Pride in America, with the help of America's mayors and governors, is harnessing the enthusiasm of an army of volunteers who are making a real difference across the nation."

"I had the pleasure of meeting Eugene Mayor Jim Torrey in August during the 2004 Take Pride in America Western Tour," said Marti Allbright, Take Pride in America executive director. "I'm delighted the mayor has taken the message of Take Pride to heart and is committed to rallying Eugene's citizens for the benefit of our public lands."

Eugene Mayor Jim Torrey will receive a framed certificate of participation.

Take Pride in America is a national partnership that recruits, supports and recognizes volunteers who work to improve our public parks, forests, grasslands, reservoirs, wildlife refuges, cultural and historic sites, local playgrounds, and other recreation areas. With 100 Charter Partners, Take Pride involves federal, state and local governments; conservation, youth and recreation groups; and top national corporations and organizations. Together, we protect and enhance the special legacy all Americans share - our public lands that cover one in every three acres across the nation. For more information visit: www.TakePride.gov.

 

 

 

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