Anonymous - 10-8-2003 at 10:41 AM
Cond? Nast Traveler Sixteenth Annual
Readers Choice Awards
October 9, 2003
Announces
2003 ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD WINNER
JAVIER VILLAVICENCIO of MEXICO
Oscar-winner Marcia Gay Harden to present award
WHO: A native of Punta Abreojos, Mexico, Javier Villavicencio is 43 years old and has been a fisherman all his life. In 2002, Javier put his
livelihood on the line to stop the Mexican Government and one of the world?s largest corporations from damaging the land and wildlife of the Baja
California peninsula. They had been planning the world?s largest industrial salt harvesting facility in Punta Abreojos.
Villavicencio launched a grassroots campaign countering the government?s claims that the project would benefit the local people, and he rallied the
community in protest. He joined with environmental groups ? including the Natural Resources Defense Council, and WiLDCOAST ? and the end result was
the government pulling the plug on the project.
Javier then joined WiLDCOAST again, fighting for the plight of the endangered sea turtles that live in the waters of Baja?s coast.
Villavicencio now works full time as the coordinator of Groupo Tortuguero (Turtle Group), started by WiLDCOAST, educating Mexicans about the need to
care for the threatened turtles. Through his efforts, the turtle population is beginning to thrive.
WHAT: The Environmental Award will be presented by Oscar winner Marcia Gay Harden. Other presenters include: Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber,
Rebecca Romijin Stamos, Mariska Hargitay, Chris Noth, Michael Imperioli, Jamie Lynn Discala, Jules Asner, supermodel Vendela, Ziggy Marley, Giants
Linebacker Dhani Jones, Third Watch?s Kim Raver and more.
Where: The Guggenheim Museum
1071 Fifth Avenue (at 89th St.)
Date: October 9, 2003
** The Cond? Nast Traveler Readers? Choice Awards are the highest honor in the travel Industry, celebrating the best-of-the-best hotels, airlines,
resorts, cruise lines, cities, rental car companies and islands as voted by the world?s most discerning travelers, Cond? Nast Traveler?s dedicated
readers.
A full story on Javier?s work will be published in the magazine?s November issue. During the ceremony he will be presented a $20,000 check from the
award?s sponsor Toyota.
Pretty Cool
Stephanie Jackter - 10-9-2003 at 10:32 AM
Sometimes the good don't die young. Congratulations to Mr. Villavicencio for making a real difference. And double congratulations for actually being
recognized for it. Maybe other Baja Californians will be inspired.- Stephanie
David K - 10-9-2003 at 07:57 PM
Glenn, did I meet Javier when you and I went to that meeting in Ensenada?
David K - 10-9-2003 at 08:28 PM
Ok, right... there was another man there and I don't remeber his name.
I do remember how you introduced me to them as the 'crazy gringo who looks for lost missions'! The best part was when they both looked at each other
and said 'Santa Clara' (a legendary lost mission, north of Abreojos). Thanks Glenn!