Category: Blog

Can you believe it? This Saturday, October 12th marks Team McCray’s 20th week of canvassing on our “Listening Tour” through the 45th Legislative District. Within the past five months, the efforts to elect me to represent many of the communities of East and Northeast Baltimore has grown from a group of early, like-minded supporters to a grassroots movement, inspiring people from near and far to support Team McCray.

After interacting with hundreds of volunteers and hearing from thousands of community members, I realize that this movement is about the longing of many to be heard, and the yearning to support a leader who is willing to listen to their concerns and represent their interests in Annapolis.

In short, I have learned that it’s not about me, Cory McCray; it’s about a fresh perspective.

For the past five months, Team McCray has been working our way through the 45th Legislative District to listen and take note of the people’s vision for their respective communities and the 45th Legislative District overall. Most recently, we visited the Belair-Edison community and the recurring anticipation is for new leadership to fight for safer streets, better schools, stronger small businesses and more jobs in East and Northeast Baltimore.

I am that new leader with a fresh perspective.

Join this grassroots movement, as we continue on the “Listening Tour.” Tomorrow,Saturday, October 12th whether rain or shine, we will hit the streets to hear from residents of the 45th Legislative District.

After talking with many over the past five month, it’s clear that it’s a new day. Voters are looking for a new leader with a fresh perspective. I am stepping up to the challenge.

Sincerely,

Cory V. McCray
Candidate for Delegate
Elect Cory McCray
45th Legislative District
info@electcorymccray.com
(443) 520-2611

P.S. Don’t forget Election Day is June 24, 2014

Team McCray has been working tirelessly these past couple of months. Continuing on the district-wide “Listening Tour,” we have knocked on nearly 600 doors in the Gardenville and Parkside communities. While crime remains a top issue of concern for everyone, it has been uplifting to receive positive feedback from 45th Legislative District residents who feel reenergized at that thought of new leadership.

Listen to a recent episode of “A City that Chats,” featuring Cory McCray:
http://citythatbreeds.com/2013/10/the-city-that-chats-episode-2-cory-mccray/

As the City of Baltimore invests in our communities by renovating playfields and repaving streets, voters are looking for a leader who will ensure that such amenities are not occasional realities, but regular occurrences.

Cory is that leader. It is his time!

Team McCray has grown significantly since the day we started with over 100 volunteers. Week after week, supporters join Cory to canvass neighborhoods, knock doors and attend community events to hear the concerns of the people.

In 18 weeks, Cory and Team McCray has welcomed supporters from in and outside of the 45th Legislative District and Baltimore, including:

Recently, Team McCray launched a sign campaign, which allows supporters to hold a hand sign, representing their respective 45th Legislative District community and boldly professing their support for Cory McCray.

The Signs of the Times…

Join Cory and Team McCray tomorrow to hit the streets. Then, have a photo taken, representing your neighborhood.

If you are unable to join us for this week’s “Listening Tour” stop, you can assist Team McCray reach our weekly goal with a small donation of $4.50 by clicking on the “Donate” button below or via U.S. Postal mail to:

It’s time! Be part of the solution.

Sincerely,

Kristerfer Burnett
Campaign Manager
Elect Cory McCray
45th Legislative District
info@electcorymccray.com
(443) 520-2611

P.S. Don’t forget Election Day is June 24, 2014

The crisp breeze has replaced the staunch humidity for now. Nonetheless, Team McCray’s commitment to the 45th Legislative District “Listening Tour” continues.

Most recently, while in the Cedmont community, Cory spoke with a couple of community leaders who applauded the campaign’s willingness to canvass neighborhoods and knock doors in the 45th Legislative District,confirming that it elevates the level of engagement in the political process and community involvement among the citizenry.

Click Here to view “Listening Tour” photos

Therefore, as we approach Autumn, Team McCray will compliment our “McCray Purple” shirts with thermals, jackets and scarves, as we continue to trek through the 45th Legislative District – Watch Team McCray work!

While the “Listening Tour” allows Team McCray to establish relationships and broaden our supporter base, it is most important to Cory because it allows him to better understand the distinct attributes and unique needs of each community. Canvassing communities, knocking on doors, listening to the concerns of residents and surveying the needs of each community are essential responsibilities of any leader who aims to effectively represent the needs and desires of those in the 45th Legislative District. That’s why Cory McCray is “A Leader Who Listens.”

Join this grassroots effort and knock doors with Cory and Team McCray this Saturday, September 21. The field team is conducting training for anyone who is interested in joining Team McCray on the “Listening Tour,” but has never before canvassed for a political campaign. Just click HERE and someone will contact you.

Remember to stay connected, visit the new video and blog pages at the links below:

If you are unable to actively participate in the “Listening Tour,” you can assist Team McCray reach our weekly goal with a small donation of $4.50 by clicking on the “Donate” button below or via U.S. Postal mail to:

Thank you for your support!

Sincerely,

Antonio Glover
Field Organizer
Elect Cory McCray
45th Legislative District
info@electcorymccray.com
(443) 520-2611

P.S. Don’t forget Election Day is June 24, 2014

When I set out to run for delegate in the 45th Legislative District, I sought the best and brightest within my network to comprise my executive leadership team. As a result of an apparent strong work ethic overall, these enterprising individuals are consistently approached for great professional opportunities. Most recently, Campaign Manager Terrell Boston Smith was given the opportunity to serve on the leadership team of a statewide campaign.

Although bittersweet, it is with great honor that I announce Terrell’s transition from my campaign manager to political director for Brian Frosh for Maryland. Needless to say, we are losing a vital member of Team McCray. However, we are proud to see him advance in his career. Congratulations, Terrell!

Ready to take over the helm of campaign manager is Kristerfer Burnett, who has played a vital role as Team McCray’s field organizer. I look forward to working with him in this new capacity. Welcome, Kristerfer!

As we transition internally, I look forward to continuing on this journey to victory with all Team McCray supporters. Therefore, continue to stay connected because Team McCray is counting on YOU!

Thank you for your support!

Sincerely,

Cory V. McCray
Candidate
Elect Cory McCray
45th Legislative District
info@electcorymccray.com
(443) 520-2611

P.S. Don’t forget Election Day is June 24, 2014

About Terrell Boston Smith

Terrell Boston Smith began his career in public service as a teenage volunteer for his community association. Soon thereafter, he joined the Safe and Sound Campaign: Baltimore’s Campaign for its Children and Youth, as a community and youth organizer. Most recently, Terrell served as a government relations advisor for a local law firm, lobbying before the Maryland General Assembly, the Maryland Executive branch and its departments, as well as local government and legislative bodies.

Terrell holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Franklin Pierce University and a Master of Public Administration from Baruch College – The City University of New York (CUNY). A 2013 graduate of CUNY’s National Urban Fellows’ Academic & Leadership Development Fellowship Program, he completed his nine-month internship with the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials. Additionally, Terrell is the current president of Baltimore Young Democrats, as well as a founding member of B.E.S.T. Democratic Club.

About Kristerfer Burnett

Kristerfer Burnett began his journey in community organizing and public policy as an undergraduate student at University of Maryland-College Park, where he was a founding member of the student-led social justice & advocacy organization, Community Roots. Kristerfer has worked as a community organizer for the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), supporting organizations such as the Community Housing & Relocation Workgroup and the Baltimore Redevelopment Action Committee for Empowerment. Currently, Kristerfer works as a community organizer for the Comprehensive Housing Assistance Inc./Glen Neighborhood Improvement Association’s partnership with Baltimore City’s Healthy Neighborhoods.

A native of Baltimore, Kristerfer earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in African-American Studies from University of Maryland-College Park and a Masters degree in Public Policy from the University of Maryland-Baltimore County. He serves as the chair of the Outreach & Empowerment committee for the Edmondson Village Community Association. In addition, he is an active member of the Harlem-Denison Avenue Community Garden project, B.E.S.T. Democratic Club, Greater Baltimore Leadership Association, as well as a mentor in the Real Life 101 project.

Team McCray has been extremely busy this past week, as we knocked on hundreds of doors, made stops on the “Listening Tour” in the Belair-Edison community and participated in Chatman-Harris Funeral Home’s Back to School Drive.

Last Saturday, Cory was joined by a diverse group of “Listening Tour” canvassers, including members of the Prince George’s County Young Democrats, union representatives, political activists and retirees. Together, this dynamic team of volunteers knocked on doors in the Belair-Edison community, engaging with constituents on Dudley Avenue, Shannon Drive, Kenyon Avenue, Ramona Avenue, Elmora Avenue, and Lyndale Avenue.

At one point throughout the day, Cory and Team McCray ran into a small group of community activists who reside within the 3900-block of Dudley Avenue, known as the “Dudley Do Rights.” This group of leaders meets regularly to keep their block clean and safe. Concerned about the future of the Belair-Edison community, the members of the “Dudley Do Rights” were very supportive of Cory’s aspirations to represent them in the House of Delegates. One member indicated that she normally does not display campaign lawn signs on her property, but that she would make an exception for a “McCray for Delegate” lawn sign…Let’s say, WINNING!

To conclude a rewarding day in the 45th Legislative District, Team McCray joined Baltimore City Councilman Brandon Scott at a Back to School Drive hosted by Chatman-Harris Funeral. On the corner of Belair Road and Parkside Drive, young leaders and future voters received school supplies and enjoyed positive entertainment.

As you can see, Cory and Team McCray are making strides week after week. We are committed to hearing from and engaging with as many 45th Legislative District constituents as possible to ensure that Cory has a comprehensive handle on the issues and concerns of each community in order to effectively and competently represent their respective needs in Annapolis once elected.

These efforts have not gone unnoticed. Outside of the 45th Legislative District’s incumbent state legislators, Cory was the only candidate recognized in a recent Maryland Reporter feature titled, “Md. General Assembly races: September update on candidates.” But, wait! Not only was Cory mentioned, a large photo accompanied the notable mention.

We started from the bottom, now we’re here. So come on and help us take this to the next level.

Join Team McCray tomorrow for a fun-filled day of canvassing, door knocking and listening. If you are unable to join us, we totally understand but your assistance is still needed. Please continue to spread the word about the campaign to your family members, friends, co-workers and neighbors by forwarding these weekly e-mails, sharing the campaign website, and inviting everyone you know to “Like” the Facebook page.

You can also help Team McCray reach our weekly goal with a small donation of $4.50 by clicking on the “Donate” button below or via U.S. Postal mail to:

Thank you for your support!

Sincerely,

Jermaine Jones
Field Team
Elect Cory McCray
45th Legislative District
info@electcorymccray.com
(443) 520-2611

P.S. Don’t forget Election Day is June 24, 2014

Happy Labor Day weekend!

While this is a holiday weekend, Team McCray still plans to hit the streets in an effort to hear from 45th Legislative District residents. Committed to understanding the concerns of residents and seeing Cory McCray prevail next year, the “Listening Tour” must continue.

In the final days of August, it is rewarding to reflect on the past three months and appreciate the results of commitment, perseverance and labor. Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, Team McCray has knocked on more than 3,000 doors and engaged with nearly 4,000 constituents.

Each week, we have gained the support of many voters by knocking on doors, listening to residents and informing them of issues that are very important to Cory. Often times, these voters become so inspired by the grassroots campaign effort that they have transitioned into Team McCray volunteers.

While we are making great progress, we still need your support to keep the campaign moving forward. Therefore, please continue to do your part to spread the word about Cory and Team McCray by forwarding these weekly e-mails to your family and friends, sharing the campaign website with neighbors, and inviting everyone you know to “Like” the Facebook page.

If you have some free time today, please come hit the streets with us, as we knock on doors, listen to constituents and share why we support Cory McCray for delegate.

You can also help Team McCray to reach our weekly goal with a small donation of $4.50 by clicking on the “Donate” button below or via U.S. Postal mail to:

Remember to stay connected, visit the new video and blog pages at the links below:

Thank you for your support! I hope to see you today. However, if I do not, I hope you and your family enjoy the holiday weekend.

Sincerely,

Shannon Sneed
Field Team
Elect Cory McCray
45th Legislative District
info@electcorymccray.com
(443) 520-2611

P.S. Don’t forget Election Day is June 24, 2014

I see you all read Campaign Manager Terrell Boston Smith’s e-mail last week and heeded his instruction. With nearly 15 volunteers in tow, last weekend was filled with several impactful encounters with numerous dynamic people as Cory and Team McCray took the “Listening Tour” to the Waltherson and Cedonia communities.

Click here to view photos from Team McCray’s “Listening Tour”

Last Saturday, while knocking on nearly 400 doors in the Waltherson community, Cory ran into a long-time friend, a community leader, an educator and several others who all expressed their sincere support for our campaign to serve the 45th Legislative District. From listening to each of them, it was obvious that these individuals trust Cory to represent their interests in Annapolis.

Let me share a few actual instances that occurred:

BIRTHDAY WISH

A frequent Team McCray canvasser and Cory’s good friend from Montgomery County celebrated his birthday on Saturday. To celebrate his day, he decided to hit the streets with Cory and had two of his close friends join him as a birthday wish.

PURPLE FEVER

Cory was walking on Woodlea Avenue, when a car pulled over. The driver said, “Hey, Cory!” To his surprise, it was a long-time friend who said that she recognized Team McCray from seeing the “McCray Purple” shirts all over Facebook. After chatting with Cory for a few, she told him that she would vote for him next June. Later, when Team McCray made it to her home, this 45th Legislative District resident already had a glass of water waiting for Cory.

CAN I GET A LAWN SIGN, PLEASE?

On Southern Avenue, Cory met an assistant principal of a Baltimore City Public School high school who stated that she had heard about Team McCray from one of her students. She expressed her excitement for the grassroots campaign and even offered to put a lawn sign at her home, which is located on the corner of a highly visible and well-traveled intersection. Again, on Woodlea Avenue, Cory ran into a community association leader, who was very enthusiastic about Team McCray and the campaign. He, too, offered to display a lawn sign on his lawn.

WORKING CLASS SUPPORT

Cory knocked on the door of a machinist, who informed Team McCray that he was already familiar with the campaign from a colleague. Fond of Cory’s efforts to stand up for the working class, he vowed his support for Cory and also requested a lawn sign.

After that eventful day in the Waltherson community, the “Listening Tour” made its debut in Cedonia on Sunday. While walking on Cedgate Avenue, Team McCray encountered a couple who learned about Cory’s plans from a friend who attended a fundraiser. After a brief chat, the husband and wife duo said they would be supporting Cory McCray for delegate and offered to volunteer. Later, on Darien Road, Cory ran into a former member of the Baltimore City Employee’s Retirement Systems, who vowed his support after engaging in an extensive and passionate conversation with Cory. Like most of the previously mentioned people, this supporter also requested a lawn sign. Let’s just say that the lawn sign volunteers will be extremely busy in February.

Please continue to spread the word about Cory and Team McCray. Don’t forget to forward these weekly e-mails to your family and friends, share the campaign website with neighbors, and invite everyone you know to “Like” the Facebook page so that we can continue to share these encouraging stories. Also, please continue to assist Team McCray reach our weekly goal with a small donation of $4.50 by simply clicking on the “Donate” button below or sending your payment via U.S. Postal mail to:

Thank you for your support! Team McCray appreciates you.

Sincerely,

Kristerfer Burnett
Field Organizer
Elect Cory McCray
45th Legislative District
info@electcorymccray.com
(443) 520-2629

P.S. Don’t forget Election Day is June 24, 2014

I hope this message finds you well on this beautiful evening. A true servant and dedicated worker by nature, Cory will be taking advantage of this perfect weather by continuing to walk the Arcadia community, knocking on doors and hearing from his neighbors. Committed to listening to the residents and understanding the needs of each community within the 45th Legislative District footprint, he is literally “A Leader Who Listens.”

Coming off of a successful stop on the “Listening Tour” in the Arcadia and Beverly Hills communities this past Saturday, where Cory and Team McCray were joined by a total of 11 volunteers. This week’s crew brought together volunteers from in-and-outside of the district, including a husband and wife duo, a first-year Baltimore City high school teacher, a first-year college student and an electrician. While from various backgrounds, each volunteers contributed a necessary, yet different perspective.

As Team McCray connected with residents, a common concern for many was the future of Herring Run Park, which they described as a forgotten jewel of Baltimore City. This community’s concerns, as well as those of other communities, are a top priority for Cory. Eager to learn the rich history of each 45th Legislative District community, Cory is committed to identifying the perfect recipe for growing, nurturing, strengthening and maintaining strong communities. He is confident that each ingredient lies within each conversation. Therefore, he listens.

With your assistance, Team McCray has won many small victories since launching this campaign. In order to continue on this winning path, please continue to do your part to spread the word about Cory and Team McCray by forwarding these weekly e-mails to your family and friends, sharing the campaign website with neighbors, and inviting everyone you know to “Like” the Facebook page.

If you have some free time on Saturday, please come hit the streets with us, as we knock on doors, listen to constituents and share why we support Cory McCray for delegate.

You can also help Team McCray to reach our weekly goal with a small donation of $4.50 by clicking on the “Donate” button below or via U.S. Postal mail to:

Remember to stay connected, visit the new video and blog pages at the links below:

Thank you for your support!

Sincerely,

Terrell Boston-Smith
Campaign Manager
Elect Cory McCray
45th Legislative District
info@electcorymccray.com
(443) 540-3807

P.S. Don’t forget Election Day is June 24, 2014

When I initially set out to run for state delegate in the 45th Legislative District, I did not quite realize the fulfilling reward of the journey to get there. While, I understood the importance of establishing a strong campaign team, canvassing neighborhoods and fundraising as necessary components to running a successful campaign, I had not considered the significance of the process.

Now, after more than two months of canvassing neighborhoods and speaking with various constituents, I am humbled by the mere possibility of representing the Baltimore City residents of the 45th Legislative District in Annapolis. Each step has been so rewarding thus far and I look forward to continuing onward to victory with you by my side because this campaign is so much larger than me. This is a grassroots movement of concerned residents ready for “A Leader Who Listens” to their needs and represents their interests in the Maryland General Assembly.

Each week, Team McCray works harder than the week before, gaining traction and building momentum. For the past few weeks, we have not left canvassing to only Saturdays, rather we have hit the streets each day of the week, knocking on doors and listening to constituents. This week alone, we knocked on more than 500 doors within the Glenham Belhar, Waltherson, and Gardenville communities.

While it is nice to stop by residents’ homes, it has been very rewarding to interact with constituents during Saturday festivals and weekday evening block parties, like the Belair-Edison “Youth Fun Day” this past Saturday, as well as the “National Night Out” events on Tuesday at Lake Montebello and Herring Run Park. Each of these events affords me the opportunity to connect with 45th Legislative District constituents in different realm.

So far, it has been a true pleasure to meet so many people as I crisscross the district. I would like to continue this energy throughout the duration of the campaign and following, but I need your support in order to do so. Therefore, if you have some free time tomorrow, please come join me as the “Listening Tour” stops in the Arcadia and Beverly Hills communities.

If not, please continue to spread the word about Team McCray by forwarding these weekly e-mails to your family and friends, sharing the campaign website with neighbors, and inviting everyone you know to “Like” the Facebook page.

We are doing so well, please help us continue on this path to victory. Team McCray is counting on YOU!

Thank you for your support!

Sincerely,

Cory V. McCray
Candidate
45th Legislative District
info@electcorymccray.com

P.S. Don’t forget Election Day is June 24, 2014

Week after week, we have such great news to share and it’s all a result of your support. It is evident that you are telling your family, friends and neighbors about Cory McCray, and sharing the reasons why you support this man of integrity. So, I want to say “Thank You” on behalf of Cory and Team McCray for playing a vital role in moving this campaign forward.

This past Saturday, joined by Prince George’s County Young Democrats President Larry Stafford, Team McCray focused on the Waltherson and Gardenville communities. As fate would have it, the first door Cory knocked on was that of a fellow electrician. After making a significant contribution to the campaign, this McCray supporter requested the largest sign be placed in his yard at a very prominent corner in the Waltherson community.

Destined for greatness, Cory received another contribution while knocking on doors alongside six volunteers. This time from a longtime business owner, who lives and runs a business within the 45th Legislative District and is committed to seeing Team McCray to victory.

After knocking on approximately 150 doors, Team McCray headed to the Berea community to attend the BEST Democratic Club’s second annual “Get Out the Vote” Day, hosted by the residents of the 1400-block of Potomac Street. During this event, Cory had an opportunity to speak with several state and local elected officials, including Lieutenant Governor Anthony Brown, Comptroller Peter Franchot, Senator Brian Frosh, Delegate Jon Cardin, as well as Baltimore City State’s Attorney Gregg Bernstein and Baltimore City Council President Bernard “Jack” Young.

To end a long, yet rewarding day, Cory and Team McCray traveled to the Lauraville-Hamilton Street Festival, where many supportive neighbors welcomed them.

While this past Saturday was a total success, we really need your support to keep this up. So, please continue to do your part to spread the word about Cory and Team McCray by forwarding these weekly e-mails to your family and friends, sharing the campaign website with neighbors, and inviting everyone you know to “Like” the Facebook page. If you have some free time on Saturday, please come hit the streets with us, as we knock on doors, listen to constituents and share why we support Cory McCray for delegate.

You can also help Team McCray to reach our weekly goal with a small donation of $4.50 by clicking on the “Donate” button below or via U.S. Postal mail to:

Remember to stay connected, visit the new video and blog pages at the links below:

Thank you for your support!

Sincerely,

Antonio Glover
Field Organizer
Elect Cory McCray
45th Legislative District
info@electcorymccray.com