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Citizen Organization Celebrated for Success Protecting Gettysburg

Washington, D.C. - The National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) today honored Susan Star Paddock, chair of No Casino Gettysburg, with its annual Marjory Stoneman Douglas Award for the organization's contributions in the fight to save Gettysburg National Military Park from the ill effects of a casino being built nearby.

"Susan, and everyone involved with No Casino Gettysburg, fought selflessly and tirelessly for almost two years, giving time and personal wealth to ensure Gettysburg remained a place focused on its singular place in American history, and a great place to bring one's family," said NPCA Senior Vice President Theresa Pierno in presenting the award.

In December 2006, after nearly two years of public outreach and engagement, town hall meetings, and national media attention, the local residents of No Casino Gettysburg joined NPCA and thousands of Americans nationwide in celebrating the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board's decision not to build a casino as proposed within cannon range of Gettysburg National Military Park.

"We must all work to ensure our national parks are protected and preserved for future generations to enjoy. Taking care of our national parks should be a national priority, and here in Gettysburg, clearly it is," Pierno added.

NPCA's annual Marjory Stoneman Douglas Award was established in 1986 to honor individuals who often must go to great lengths to advocate and fight for the protection of the National Park System. Named for Marjory Stoneman Douglas, a life-long advocate for Everglades National Park, the award recognizes the outstanding efforts of an individual or group that result in the protection of a site or proposed site in the National Park System. 

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