What I’m Thankful For
Good Morning
Happy Thanksgiving! Each year, I look forward to Thanksgiving Day. This annual occasion gives us the opportunity to take time away from the daily hustle and bustle of life to gather with loved ones to reflect on our many blessings and express our gratitude for one another.
As I reflect on 2014, I have so much for which to be thankful. This year was filled with many blessings. My wife and I expanded our beautiful family with the birth of our first son, Cory Jr., and with the unwavering support of a strong network of family and friends, I was elected to represent the residents and businesses of the 45th Legislative District in the House of Delegates. I am grateful for those who believed in me and helped to make this dream a reality—Thank you!
Since declaring victory on Election Day, it has been a great experience to crisscross the district and witness the momentum of engagement occurring throughout communities within the 45th District. This month, I had the opportunity to visit meetings for the Cedmont, Berea, Johnston Square, Arcadia, Glenham-Belhar, and Parkside community associations. Additionally, I attended meetings for the Truth/Reconciliation Community Council (TRC) and the 4×4 Community Association, both of which recently reconvened and have gotten off to a great start with active participation. Personally, I would like to wish these communities much success, and extend my full support.
Additionally, over the past month, I have participated in several meetings that are fundamental to the growth and vitality of the 45th Legislative District. I met with Dr. Gordon F. May, new president for Baltimore City Community College (BCCC), who detailed the challenges faced by BCCC and expressed his vision for the school. This meeting was very enlightening and I look forward to working with Dr. May and his staff to take BCCC to the next level. I also took time to meet with Greater Baltimore Urban League (GBUL) Executive Director J. Howard Henderson. During this meeting, we discussed the wonderful programming developed by the organization for our children and his goals for GBUL in the years to come.
I had a great meeting with Baltimore City Housing Commissioner Paul Graziano and several members of his team to learn about the numerous benefits available to residents, as well as to receive a full reporting of the development currently underway and in the pipeline for the 45th Legislative District. These city officials gave me well over two hours of their time, and I was able to schedule follow-up meetings to learn more about Orchard Ridge, programming for our seniors, and future development projects.
While my schedule is often consumed with important meetings, I always set aside time to serve the community, as that is the most vital part of being a public servant. Earlier this month, #TeamMcCray partnered with members of the International Brotherhood Of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 24, McElderry Park Community Association, and Amazing Grace for a “Day of Action.” Together, we cleaned and greened the community in preparation for the cold winter months. We were able to gather more than 50 volunteers to clean alleys, trim trees, cut back weeds, paint flower beds, and trench new piping for drainage in the McElderry Park Community.
Last week, I joined other young elected officials to kick-off a toy drive at Shake and Bake. Through this initiative, we are partnering with the Department of Social Services to assist families in need this holiday season. I—along with Senator Bill Ferguson and Delegate-elect Brooke Lierman of the 46th Legislative District, Delegate-elect Antonio Hayes of the 40th District, Baltimore City State’s Attorney-elect Marilyn Mosby, Councilmen Brandon Scott (2nd District) and Nick Mosby (7th District), as well as members of the Democratic State Central Committee—will continue to collect items over the next few weeks to make sure that constituents within our districts enjoy a bright holiday season. If you would like to make a donation, please reply to this email and we will schedule a time to make the collection.
With the Maryland General Assembly scheduled to reconvene in January, I am actively gearing up for the legislative session. Next Tuesday and Wednesday, I will be attending orientation with other freshmen legislators from across the State of Maryland to learn more about ethics, staffing, bill drafting, and agencies within the State of Maryland. Then, the following week, I will participate in a bus tour hosted by House Speaker Michael Busch to survey the many amenities offered throughout the state. I look forward to sharing these experiences with you in the coming weeks.
Again, as we take time to reflect on life’s many blessings today, I want you to know that I am thankful for your support and wish you and your family a happy Thanksgiving, filled with great food and good cheer!
Sincerely,
Cory McCra
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