Press Release:

Fleishman Hillard, Inc.
Contact: Jack Raudy
(916) 441-7606

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SAN DIEGO OFF-ROAD COALITION RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS OHV COMMISION AWARD

MAMMOTH LAKES, Calif. (Sept 12, 1998) - The San Diego Off-Road Coalition, with approximately 150 individual and family members and 50 business members, recently received the presigious Superior Achievement "Best Volunteer Group" award for 1998, presented by the California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission during ceremonies in Mammoth Lakes.

Competing with volunteer off-highway vehicle clubs and associations throughout California, the San Diego Off-Road Coalition was singled out for its dedication to the promotion of off-roading as a safe, healthy, family activity.

"This award is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of all San Diego Off-Road Coalition members," said Don Amador, chairman of the OHV commission. "It is because of their relationships with land managers and government officials and their pursuit to ensure that public lands remain open for all outdoor enthusiasts, that we are able to enjoy our opportunities today."

According to the citation, the coalition is very active in the state's "Adopt-A-Highway" program and members regularly participate in the sheriff departments' community education programs at various community sites. In addition, every year the coalition collects and donates hundreds of "Tote Bags" to the Plinski Children's Center in San Diego and they were involved in planting Palo Verde trees around the Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area this past year.

Jim McGarvie, of El Cajon, who has provided the leadership to the coalition for the past two years, told his members how proud he was of this award: "As off-road enthusiasts and members of this active coalition, each and every one of you can take great pride in this award. From the halls of the U.S. Congress to Bureau of Land Management hearings and from the California Air Resources Board to our own county supervisors, your voices have been heard."

McGarvie explained that his organization has been instrumental in bringing "Green Sticker" funding into San Diego County and the coalition continues to work closely with all local, state, and federal agencies in dealing with off-highway vehicle recreation. Members distribute thousands of pieces of literature annually regarding OHV activities available along with literature on the national "Tread Lightly" program.

For more information of the annual Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Awards Program, contact Priscilla Davis at (916) 324-5211.

	Jim McGarvie (center), chairman of the San Diego Off-Road Coalition receives the Superior Achievement "Best Volunteer Group" award for 1998 from Don Amador, chairman of the California Off Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission. Looking on is Julie Allen, secretary for the coalition. The San Diego Off-Road Coalition was honored for its programs to promote more and better riding opportunities in the San Diego area and for its contributions in the community.
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Last Updated February 19, 2001