2008 Salute to the Parks Awards Gala
Protecting America's Heritage
Wednesday, April 16, 2008 · The National Building Museum
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The April 16th Salute to the Parks gala reminded guests of the importance of our national parks in the lives of all Americans. Our national parks serve as symbols of democracy, inspiration, and the diversity of our nation. Our parks invite us to go back in time and provide refuge for the wildlife that once roamed free across our nation. Our parks are places where we forge family bonds and friendships, and countless American childhoods have been shaped by campfire stories at Yosemite, Great Smoky Mountains, or Big Bend – or by the first time a young person gaze into the Grand Canyon. Lifelong passions begin with a single, inspiring experience; the 391 national parks provide that spark.
NPCA was pleased to honor park champions Representative Nick Rahall (D-WV) and biologist Edward O. Wilson for their dedication to preserving and strengthening our national parks. Each honoree offered his own perspective on why the parks matter to America’s future. Shortly after dinner, Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne made a heartfelt toast to the awardees and thanked them for their commitment. Andy Todd, CEO of Xanterra, the underwriting sponsor of the evening, stressed the importance of operating businesses in a sustainable manner and showcased Xanterra’s newest program to lessen the company’s impact on the parks where they operate. These leaders are shining examples of the many Americans dedicated to protecting our national parks.
Learn more about the 2008 Awardees
The annual Salute to the Parks is an inspiring evening and we invite you to join us for the 2009 event on Wednesday, April 1, 2009. Click Here for more information about the 2009 Salute to the Parks.
