On February 23rd, 2006, the Wilderness Society hosted a reception in Washington, DC, to honor three individuals who have dedicated their time and expertise to the campaign to protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. While these three individuals were highlighted, The Wilderness Society also thanked and recognized the efforts of their staff, Council Members, and partners including the Alaska Wilderness League, the Sierra Club, Defenders of Wildlife, US PIRG and many others. While the Wilderness Report usually features only the news and progress of wilderness campaigns, we felt that the great work of these individuals should be shared with you as we thank them for their hard work and continued commitment to protecting this special place.
Peter Van Tuyn
Peter was recognized for his extensive knowledge of the law and legislative issues. Peter spent more than a decade working on the staff of the Trustees for Alaska until he decided to venture out and form his own law firm where he continues to work on Alaska conservation issues. Our community can always turn to Peter for an analysis of the latest piece of legislation-and get it practically before the ink on the bill is dry.
Richard Fineberg
For three decades, Richard Fineberg has researched and reported on economic and environmental issues related to Alaska and global petroleum development. He's the "numbers guy" whose analyses have refuted many a myth promoted by the government and its drilling allies. Richard's research into the projected yield of oil from the Arctic Refuge and the interplay of these projections with energy prices changed the debate. He gave us the facts-and the sound bites-to help the public understand that drilling meant maybe six months of oil ten years from now, or a savings of one penny per gallon in 20 years.
John McComb
John has worn many hats over the years from Conservation Director of the Sierra Club to Deputy Conservation Director of The Wilderness Society. Over the last 15 years John has worked as an information systems consultant for just about every major environmental group. John brings a wealth of experience and a unique ability to blend technology and environmental movement. John is known as the technological guru for the Arctic campaign, keeping us firmly ensconced in the 21st century with his computer skills and creative approach to advocacy work.
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