Sunset magazine and The California Coastal Commission have named Senator Alan Lowenthal as one of their 2009 California Coastal Heroes. Lowenthal has been described by the magazine as a thoughtful, substantive legislator who can effectively negotiate the legislative process without ever losing sight of coastal protection. “Rarely does a legislative session go by in Sacramento without Senator Lowenthal advancing coastal protection,” a magazine representative said.
“This is a very special recognition. When I look over the list of honorees I am humbled by my inclusion on the list,” said Lowenthal.
The 2009 California Coastal Heroes are: John Hanke, director of product management for Google Geo; Gary Griggs, chair of the University of California Marine Council; Serge Dedina, founder and executive director of Wildcoast; Julia Louis-Dreyfus, actress and activist; Julie Packard, director of the Monterey Bay Aquarium; Linda Sheehan, California Coastkeeper Alliance; Pierce Brosnan and Keely Shaye Smith Brosnan, who have made names for themselves outside the acting world as environmental activists and volunteers.
The 2009 Coastal Heroes will be honored at the California Coastal Commission’s 25th Anniversary Celebration September 17 at the Aquarium of the Bay in San Francisco