STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY ON THE PASSING OF TOM WISNER

ANNAPOLIS, MD (April 2, 2010) – Governor Martin O’Malley issued this statement today following the passing of Tom Wisner, singer, songwriter, and educator devoted to raising awareness of the spirit and beauty of the Chesapeake Bay. Wisner was the co-founder of the non-profit Chestory, devoted to lifting the story of the Chesapeake Bay region up through the arts.

“Tom truly was the Bard of the Chesapeake, Chesapeake Born and Chesapeake Free.

“His life's work and his life's hope was to bring about a new era in our relationship to the land and the waters of the Bay. He challenged all of us to participate in the great work of restoring the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland will miss his heart, his voice, his poetry, his love and his passion for the beauty of creation.

“The river moves on, and bids us to follow her.”