December Newsletter
Supporting our Military Families
I was proud to attend a Veteran's Day breakfast with Governor Wes Moore on November 9th, where he signed two executive orders to honor and fulfill our duty to military families. Maryland is fortunate to have a Governor with military service experience, providing him with firsthand knowledge of the support our troops deserve. The "Leave No One Behind" principle resonates strongly in his commitment to ensuring that our military families receive the care and assistance they need.
Families Deserve Safe Housing
Quality, safe, and sustainable housing for families should always be the goal. Without it, parents suffer, children suffer, and the effects can be detrimental. I know this from experience, as my mother lost our home when I was in high school. The impact it had on me was substantial. In my recent Capital Gazette opinion column, I illustrate how this childhood experience and my work on the county council fuels my commitment to fostering an environment that helps families pursue quality housing. In the upcoming months, the County Council will examine a bill to address this issue from a policy perspective. Read more about this issue HERE. My colleague, Councilwoman Lisa Rodvien, representing Anne Arundel County's 6th District, also wrote an informative opinion column for the Capital Gazette about housing in our county that you can read HERE.
Upgrades at the Brooklyn Park Athletic Complex
The grand reopening of the Brooklyn Park Athletic Complex was a momentous occasion celebrated by the community. The complex got a much-needed makeover, including the field, the largest ever developed by the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation. Upgrades include a lighted eight-lane 400-meter track and field, a lighted synthetic turf multi-purpose field, a concession and restroom building, pathways, and tennis and basketball courts. The partnership between the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, the Anne Arundel County Department of Public Works, Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS), and the State of Maryland has resulted in significant enhancements, revitalizing the facility for the benefit of the entire community. To read more about this fantastic project, click HERE.
Celebrate Kwanzaa at the Banneker-Douglass Museum
Enjoy the Banneker-Douglass Museum's yearly Kwanzaa celebration, where the latest exhibit, "A Story to Tell," showcases the artwork of Maryland's own Ernest Shaw as well as a curated collection of children's and young adult books by Baltimore Read Aloud. Curated by Chanel C. Johnson, this art and literacy exhibition magnifies the significance of Black history, art, and literature. The Banneker-Douglass Museum welcomes everyone to experience the showcased art and literature. For more information and to RSVP to this free event, click HERE.
December is Universal Human Rights Month
In December, we honor the individuals who have championed human rights throughout history while also considering how we can actively contribute to their advocacy in the present day. Notably, December 10 marks the anniversary of the United Nations' adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, a milestone observed globally as Human Rights Day for over seven decades. December is recognized as Universal Human Rights Month, offering an extended period to commemorate and promote the principles enshrined in the declaration.
Fun at the Library
Anne Arundel County Public Library offers fun activities for all ages this month. Learn to knit or line dance, enjoy a historical presentation, attend a concert or trivia night, or join a book club! The days may be shorter, but our libraries make sure there’s no shortage of ways to remain active during the colder months. Click HERE to peruse the Anne Arundel County Public Library calendar of events.
