FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 21, 2020
For More Information: Kelly Marshall | [email protected]
ALABAMA RIVERS ALLIANCE RECOGNIZES COMMUNITY &
STATE LEADERS AT ANNUAL ALABAMA WATER RALLY
BIRMINGHAM – The Alabama Rivers Alliance recognized community and state leaders making a difference in protecting Alabama’s 132,000 miles of rivers and streams at the local level and beyond at their annual Alabama Water Rally last month. Due to COVID-19, Alabama Water Rally was held virtually.
The River Celebration Awards recognize special organizations and individuals who have made outstanding contributions toward river protection in our state. Nominations are submitted by members of the Alabama Rivers Alliance.
“Much of the work of these individuals and organizations goes largely unrecognized except in our own circles,” Cindy Lowry, executive director of Alabama Rivers Alliance, said. “We cherish the opportunity to honor their work and service with our River Celebration Awards and are proud to work alongside them defending our rivers throughout Alabama.”
The recipients of the 2020 River Celebration Awards were:
Emerging Leader of the Year – La’Tanya Scott, for her above and beyond dedication to Alabama Rivers Alliance and many other groups throughout Alabama, including Cahaba River Society.
Volunteer of the Year – Donna Matthews, for her steadfast dedication and countless volunteer hours devoted to Friends of the Locust Fork River, Coosa Riverkeeper, Alabama Rivers Alliance and more.
Beyond Rivers Partner of the Year – Poor People’s Campaign of Alabama for uniting people across Alabama to challenge the evils of systemic racism, poverty, the war economy, ecological devastation and the nation’s distorted morality of religious nationalism.
Business Partner of the Year – Red Clay Brewing Company for their partnership with Alabama Rivers Alliance and other water protection groups in Alabama to develop events and products supporting clean water protection in Alabama.
As part of the River Celebration Awards, the Alabama Rivers Alliance typically awards River Heroes for their lifetime commitment to protecting our rivers and streams. This year, since Alabama Water Rally was virtual, ARA chose to recognize the River Hero honorees when we are able to gather safely in person again.
Additional information available upon request
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About the Alabama Rivers Alliance
Alabama Rivers Alliance is a statewide network of groups working to protect and restore all of Alabama’s water resources through building partnerships, empowering citizens, and advocating for sound water policy and its enforcement. For more information, please visit www.alabamarivers.org