American Oceans Campaign Applauds Kayaker's Commitment to Coastal Exploration and Conservation

David Hall, Communications Coordinator, AOC 202-544-3526

Washington, DC---August 31, 2000--American Oceans Campaign today enthusiastically offered its moral support and best wishes to intrepid sea kayaker, Mike Falconeri, as he paddles solo along the coastline of the continental United States.

Mr. Falconeri is taking time during his 10-month "Sea America Expedition" to speak on behalf of the marine environment. "We applaud Mike Falconeri's profound commitment to exploring America's magnificent coastline and educating others about the importance of protecting the health, beauty and vitality of our coasts and oceans," said AOC Executive Director Barbara Jeanne Polo. "We will be following his progress with great interest and wish him well on his pioneering journey."

Mr. Falconeri's expedition started on July 2, 2000, in Tahola, Washington, and is scheduled to end in Eastport, Maine, by April 2001. Mr. Falconeri's route will take him down the Pacific coast, along the Gulf coast (after a portage through Texas) and up the Atlantic coast. Upon successful completion of his journey, Mr. Falconeri, a kayaking instructor from Wallingford, Connecticut, will be the first sea kayaker to circumnavigate the 4,500-mile U.S. coastline in one consecutive trip.

"I am proud to join with American Oceans Campaign in helping to spread the word that our coasts and oceans deserve our protection and that individuals everywhere can make a difference in the quality of the marine environment," said Mr. Falconeri. "We can all be leaders when it comes to ensuring that future generations inherit clean, healthy oceans."

Mr. Falconeri is currently heading south along the coast of southern California. "For more information about Mr. Falconeri's Sea America Expedition and to follow his progress visit www.uekayaking.com