January 15, 2008

Dear Friend,

US Representative and Ocean Champion, Wayne Gilchrest, is in a very heated political primary battle for Maryland's First Congressional District. The primary race is February 12th, and polls show that the race is neck and neck. This Champion needs our help NOW! WHAT WE ARE DOING, AND WHY IT IS IMPORTANT TO YOU Ocean Champions is teaming up with a coalition of environmental and moderate Republican groups to launch an advertising campaign in Gilchrest's district. Our goal is to get the word out that Gilchrest is the RIGHT candidate for the oceans, for the environment, and for Republicans.

THE CHAMPION -- Wayne Gilchrest, MD-1 Senior member, moderate Republican Serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and Fisheries, Wildlife, and Oceans Subcommittee, the most important committee for the oceans. Co-sponsored the Save Our Shores Act (HR 1041), and OCEANS 21, two major pro-ocean Bills that we have worked hard to champion this year.

Mr. Gilchrest has played a key role in moving pro-ocean legislation over his years of service. We cannot afford to see him replaced by an anti-environment Republican!

THE OPPONENT- Andrew Harris While there are a number of different candidates challenging Gilchrest, his closest opponent, Andrew Harris, has one of the worst environmental records in the Maryland Senate. He is actively anti-environment, and anti-oceans.