(L-R): Dr. Leonard K. Peters, Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet secretary; Alle Barber (with Paula the penguin), WAVE Foundation at Newport Aquarium program conservation manager; Eric Rose, Newport Aquarium executive director; Halida Hatic, Center for Interfaith Relation director of community relations and keynote speaker; Steve Coleman, Kentucky Environmental Quality Commission chairman.

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Newport Aquarium received accolades Friday from the Kentucky Environmental Quality Commission for its environmental conservation efforts during the annual Earth Day Awards ceremony at Berry Hill Mansion.

Earth Day Awards from the EQC recognize individuals and organizations for their extraordinary efforts to enhance and improve environmental quality.

Newport Aquarium was praised for promoting a “Water Story” throughout its exhibits with the goal of educating its guests about the importance of water conservation throughout the world.

“Over 50 percent of the air we breathe is produced by the ocean, so it’s our job at Newport Aquarium to tell people about the importance of water and educate them about the everyday things they can do to help,” said Eric Rose, the aquarium’s executive director. “When guests visit the aquarium, not only do they get to see amazing animals they also get learn about how to help the animals and the environment.”

EQC Chairman Steve Coleman presented the award to Rose, along with Paula the African penguin.

“EQC is very proud to recognize the contributions of the Newport Aquarium in raising awareness on the importance of our water resources and getting citizens involved in environmental stewardship,” said Coleman.

Kentucky state Rep. Dennis Keene attended the ceremony in support of Newport Aquarium, the largest tourist attraction in his district in Campbell County.

(L-R): Kentucky state Rep. Dennis Keene; WAVE Foundation at Newport Aquarium Program Conservation Manager Alle Barber (with Paula the penguin); Newport Aquarium Executive Director Eric Rose.

“I congratulate the Newport Aquarium for its outstanding efforts to educate its visitors on the importance of water quality and conservation efforts to improve the aquatic life in both ocean and fresh water environments,” said Rep. Keene. “This aquarium continues to evolve as both an entertaining tourist attraction and a valuable resource for education and enhanced understanding of our relationship to the world around us. I’m pleased the aquarium’s staff and administration is being recognized for their dedication and thank the Environmental Quality Commission for this opportunity to highlight these insightful educational programs.”

For more information on Newport Aquarium, visit NewportAquarium.com or call toll free 800-406-FISH (3474).

About the Environmental Quality Commission
EQC is a seven-member citizen advisory board created under Kentucky state law in 1972. Its mission is to facilitate public dialog on issues, monitor trends and conditions, promote partnerships to improve and protect the environment for future generations. EQC also advises state officials on environmental matters and promotes public awareness, responsibility and positive action toward a healthy environment.

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Newport Aquarium, voted the No. 1 aquarium in the country by USA Today’s 10Best.com in 2012, has showcased thousands of animals from around the world in a million gallons of water since 1999. Named a top U.S. aquarium by US City Traveler and Destinations Travel Magazine in 2014, and also by Travel Channel in 2013, Newport Aquarium is a Herschend Family Entertainment company and an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Newport Aquarium is open to the public 365 days a year and is located across the Ohio River from downtown Cincinnati at Newport on the Levee.

Find us on: Facebook.com/NewportAquarium | Twitter: @NewportAquarium

One Aquarium Way | Newport, KY 41071 | 859-261-7444
www.newportaquarium.com