[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 80 (Thursday, May 31, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E923-E924]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO ESTHER FELDMAN

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. HOWARD L. BERMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 31, 2012

  Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to pay tribute to Esther 
Feldman, President of Community Conservation Solutions, in recognition 
of her outstanding achievements as one of the most effective 
conservation leaders in California.
  Under her leadership, Community Conservation Solutions, CCS, has 
worked to solve the complex and challenging problems that emerge 
wherever people and nature meet. CCS creates innovative and practical 
solutions to serious environmental problems affecting California's 
natural and human communities.
  Esther Feldman is one of California's most valued conservation 
leaders. For nearly three decades, she has worked continuously to 
protect the environment for future generations. Her technical, 
financial, community and policy expertise combined with her great 
organizing ability has lead to countless victories for conservation. 
Nearly every park, wilderness area, river, beach or trail in Los 
Angeles County has benefited from Esther's work. Esther's ability to 
unite diverse interests for a common goal created new parks and open 
space, and established over $3 billion dollars in new public funding 
sources to further expand conservation in California and throughout the 
United States.
  Since founding CCS in 1998, Esther has built the organization into a 
leader in conserving natural lands and water resources and in working 
with communities. Under Esther's visionary leadership, CCS conceived of 
and spearheaded the two-square mile Baldwin Hills Park Project in the 
heart of urban Los Angeles, launched wetland restoration efforts in 
Upper Newport Bay, and has developed new project and funding approaches 
to creatively solving polluted runoff problems through CCS's Water 
Quality Improvement and Green Solution Projects as well as working on 
multiple projects of vital importance across my district in the San 
Fernando Valley.
  Esther is known for being pragmatic and for her proficiency at 
acquiring funding to guarantee the longevity of the projects she 
directs. This has translated into a long list of successful outcomes 
and lasting public and environmental benefits.
  Mr. Speaker and distinguished colleagues, I ask you to join me in 
recognizing Esther Feldman for her invaluable service and dedication to 
the community and the environment.

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