FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 14, 2002 CONTACT: Lisa Lacher, (515) 271-3119 POLICY ANALYST FROM EPA TO SPEAK AT DRAKE Lynn A. Richards, a policy analyst for the Environmental Protection Agency, will discuss “Smart Growth: Providing Communities More Choices” at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 21, in the Honors Lounge of Medbury Hall at Drake University, 1317 28th Street. The lecture, which is free and open to the public, will address the economic, environmental and social impact of community development. Richards will focus on the concept of “smart growth” – development that stimulates the economy, builds strong neighborhoods and provides citizens with a clean, healthy environment. Richards recently published an article titled “Alternatives to Subsidizing Edge Development: Strategies for Preserving Rural Landscapes” in the Terrain Journal. Prior to working with the EPA, she concentrated on sustainable development, environmental justice and long-term stewardship at ICF Consulting. She also worked in government in the Bahamas to establish a Ministry of Environmental Protection. For more information, contact Daniel Spencer, associate professor of religion and ethics, at (515) 271-2885 or send an e-mail message to daniel.spencer@drake.edu.