FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 25, 2006
CONTACT: Scott Hymes at (410) 923-8683 or Susan O’Brien at 443-254-3900
Senate Candidate Scott Hymes Receives Endorsement from Sierra Club
Group recognizes Hymes service to Severn River and Chesapeake Bay Watershed
ANNAPOLIS, MD - Citing his outstanding record for achieving results in the protection and restoration of the Severn River and the Chesapeake Bay, the Anne Arundel County Group of the Maryland Chapter of the Sierra Club has endorsed State Senate Candidate Scott Hymes (District 33). This endorsement follows his recent recognition as a Blue Crab Candidate by Chesapeake Bay Blues Author Howard Ernst.
“We strongly urge the election of Scott Hymes. His proven record as an environmentalist and his balanced, intelligent approach to government make him the ideal candidate,” said David Prosten, local political chair.
A lifelong resident of Maryland, Scott was raised in a family that coveted its surroundings and he was taught to always cherish the Bay and natural resources and to give back in return through public service and community involvement. This personal familiarity with the Bay and its tributaries led to his acclaimed work with environmental organizations.
“Growing up in communities along the Chesapeake Bay gave me a profound sense of responsibility to protect its waters. I firmly believe that our environment, just like our schools and communities, will only flourish if we work together with citizens and neighbors, all levels of government, and organizations like the Sierra Club. Their endorsement is an honor and as senator, I will always work hard to protect our fragile ecosystem,” says Scott.
After moving to his self-built home along a Severn River cove in Herald Harbor, Scott quickly became involved in the local community association and eventually served as its vice president. One of his first endeavors was to engage neighbors in an effort to increase access to the local waterways.
“If citizens cannot access our waterways and natural resources, they will have no incentive to protect and restore the environment in which we live, work and play,” says Scott.
In 2000, he joined the Severn River Association where he was quickly elected to the board as vice president/treasurer. To achieve common goals, he pulled together members with diverse and sometimes conflicting positions. He managed the Hidden Pond Project in Annapolis -- part of the most comprehensive waterway restoration in the state. He also helped the Terrapin Institute return the terrapin to the Severn River. In 2004, Scott founded the formation of a local land trust now called the Crownsville Conservancy, Inc. to help preserve green space and wildlife habitat in densely developed neighborhoods.
In 2005, he brought together the Severn River’s two river groups to create the Severn Riverkeeper Program and was named executive director. Under his leadership, the program flourished with increased fundraising and the creation of the annual “Celebrate the Severn” event. His years of experience with environmental issues helped educate member communities about the major issues facing the Severn River Watershed.
For years, Scott has testified before all levels of government to secure the funding and resources needed to help meet the restoration goals of the Severn River and the Bay’s tributaries.
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