Mariana Jones ... by gimleteye

Among the last of the generation of Everglades defenders who lived, worked, and knew the splendor of the Everglades as it existed in the 1940's and 1950's died yesterday. We honor those who have passed, like Mariana Jones and her late husband Johnny Jones, through our determination and passion to protect and restore what remains of Florida's natural heritage.

Not everyone may be an environmentalist or even be concerned about what happens "out there" beyond the urban boundary. But every single person in South Florida should rebel against the deformation of democracy that goes on, every day, in order to put the rights of polluting corporations ahead of the rights of people.

It is not just about panthers or manatees: when you fight to uphold liberty and freedom against those who dominate legislatures for their personal wealth and benefit, you are fighting for your health, for fairness and equity for all people, and for a hopeful future. We will never give up.

The bottom line: the state of the environment reflects us and our own state. When the waters of this state are falling apart, when toxic algae blooms cover up the shadow government imposed by big polluters -- like Big Sugar -- we are diminished, made smaller, less significant and less powerful than is our right under the Constitution.

It is just like the bumper sticker says: "If you are not outraged, you are not paying attention".

The Everglades and wild Florida has lost a champion today.
By Michael Conner

Mariana Jones, wife of the late Johnny Jones--a past president of the Florida Wildlife Federation and arguably the most influential and tireless lobbyist for The Everglades, Big Cypress and the Kissimmee River--passed away today in West Palm Beach.

Mariana shared in Johnny's fight for our beloved woods and waters, and I encourage anyone who has even a passing interest in preserving Florida wild places to pause today and research what this tireless couple achieved in their years of activism.

Mariana preferred to stay out of the spotlight, allowing Johnny, affectionately known as The Bulldog, to work his magic with politicians and the media.

Over the years I have been aware of Johnny's and Mariana's efforts, having fished and hunted in the 'Glades and Big Cypress, and having attended Everglades public meetings in the mid 70s through the late 80s. The name Jones was front and center, and the environmental and the hunting and fishing community has heaped much deserved praise on this couple over the years.

I deeply regret not getting to know, or having the chance to personally thank Mariana, grandmother of my girlfriend and fellow River Warrior Michelle Roberts this past year.

So today I will do just that.

Thank you Mariana, for yours and Johnny's dedication to, and passion for, the Everglades and all of wild Florida. You set the bar high, and laid the foundation for those like me, those who continue your fight to preserve what we have left. Rest in peace with the knowledge that your fight will rage on and your work was not in vain.