At the January 13 Unsung Heroes Luncheon sponsored by Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, Last Stand honored Russ Draper as our Unsung Hero for his dedication to protecting Key West's Salt Ponds and Bridle Path area.  Pictured below (l-r) are Russ, Last Stand VP Dennis Henize, and CFFK Executive Director Dianna Sutton.

Pictured above (l-r) are Russ, Last Stand VP Dennis Henize, and CFFK Executive Director Dianna Sutton.

Russ Draper has been a tireless defender of the Key West Salt Ponds for years.  Determined to keep these wetlands healthy for birds and other wildlife, Russ monitors the water quality, works with officials to discourage misuse of sensitive areas, and keeps other environmentalists informed of unwanted threats to the area.  He was a founding member of the Guardians of the Salt Ponds, has been a board member of Last Stand, and is currently a Park Ranger for the city of Key West.   Russ's persistence and commitment to protecting an important natural resource in Key West continues to be an inspiration to the community.  Last Stand salutes Russ and we are proud to honor him as our Unsung Hero.

Thank you Russ, and thank you Community Foundation of the Florida Keys for sponsoring the Unsung Heroes program.