Caring for our Community — September 10, 2020

September 10, 2020
Dear Friend:
 
We have now survived 6 long months of this pandemic. As we approach the tragic milestone of 200,000 American lives lost, please continue be mindful of self-care to stay both physically and mentally healthy.
 
Keeping Your #MaskOnMD
Got one minute? Senators around the State have created #MaskOnMD videos to encourage our constituents to wear masks to protect themselves and others. Here is my light-hearted contribution!
Honoring my Advocacy
The Conflict Resolution Center of Montgomery County (CRCMC) is hosting its annual gala virtually on October 12th. With COVID-related tensions high between neighbors, landlords, employers, and family members, CRCMC continues to assist our community. I am flattered that this nonprofit is recognizing me as “Peacemaker of the Year” for my legislative leadership and community outreach. Due to the importance of their work, I featured CRCMC as a beneficiary at my 4th and final 2020 UnNaugural Concert this past January. Please consider donating to this important organization and joining us at the event.
 
Expanding is Expensive
Traffic has always been a problem in our area. But many of us are dubious that the proposed 495/I-270 Expansion Plan doesn’t appear to be the best solution. Aside from insufficient public hearings and disclosure of details, this project comes with a completely unaffordable price tag of over $9 billion– when we are already struggling economically. The 18,000 page Draft Environmental Impact Statement fails to address key questions about how the project would affect commuters, low-income neighborhoods, local parks, and stormwater runoff. We should seek more thoughtful options before moving forward with Governor Hogan’s plan.
What to Expect When You’re Voting: A Series (Part 2)
In addition to the races for President/Vice President, Congress, Board of Education, and of the Sitting Judges, six questions will appear on your ballot. I will share my recommendations over the next several weeks to help you prepare.
 
State Constitutional Amendment #2: “Sports Betting Expansion”
This would allow sports wagering, which is already permitted in 22 other states. A portion of the revenue would be dedicated to funding public education. I encourage you to vote YES on this measure.
Remembering the Victims and Heroes
Tomorrow marks 19 years since the tragic events at The World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and  Shanksville, Pennsylvania. A childhood friend was among those murdered that day. Let us never forget.
Saving Lives Through 9-1-1
In case you missed it, I was a guest on The Kojo Nnamdi Show again last week. We discussed recent incidents of First Responders dispatched to the wrong location and how “Next Generation 9-1-1” will increase location accuracy. Unfortunately, three people have died in my district when 9-1-1 failed. I continue to be committed to modernizing our public safety systems in order to save lives.

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Best,
 
Cheryl
 
Cheryl C. Kagan
State Senator, District 17
(Gaithersburg & Rockville)
 
PS: Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. Did you know that every 40 seconds, someone in the world takes their own life? It is hard to identify those who are struggling; reaching out could make a difference.