Weekly Watchdog, 11.22.11

Issue 18 — November 22, 2011

Thanksgiving is a welcomed time for family, friends and reflection after a busy period for the Comptroller and his hardworking staff. Before cherishing quality time with his family, Comptroller Franchot will help those less fortunate by serving turkey and trimmings at Goodwill’s 56th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner in Baltimore.

Supporting Financial Independence for all Maryland Women.

Last week, Comptroller Franchot gave the opening remarks at the 3rd Annual Maryland Women’s Conference. Joining author and financial literacy proponent, Madeleine Greene, Franchot spoke about the nexus between understanding fundamental financial principles and making sound decisions to support a productive and fulfilling life. He received a rousing response in support of his petition supporting a standalone financial literacy course for all Maryland high schoolers. You can join Maryland Women and the countless other supporters by SIGNING THE PETITION or LIKING our page on Facebook.

Recognizing Maryland’s Working Families.

Comptroller Franchot spoke at the Maryland-DC AFL-CIO Biennial Convention over the weekend where he stated that “a strong middle class means a strong Maryland.” Franchot recognized the particularly difficult economic environment for working Marylanders and reiterated his strong belief that Maryland’s highly skilled workforce provides a comparative advantage over other states and is a key to the State’s economic recovery and long-term prosperity.

Shopping Maryland This Holiday Season.

Comptroller Franchot is set to kick-off a Shop Maryland Tour to promote taxpayers to patronize Maryland businesses this holiday season to support their neighbors, the State and the Maryland economy. Starting with visits next week to Downtown Annapolis and Mondawmin Mall in Baltimore, Franchot will make stops at Maryland businesses in every region of the State.

Appreciating Maryland’s Wildlife.

Peter Franchot, his wife Anne and their dog Henry, attended the Maryland Waterfowl Festival in Historic Easton recently. The festival – which Franchot and his wife attend nearly every year – supports local artists and sportsmen and raises critical financial support for waterfowl and wildlife habitat conservation.

Enhancing Maryland’s Quality of Life & Business Climate.

Comptroller Franchot joined Governor O’Malley and Transportation Secretary Swaim-Staley for the opening of the second leg of the Inter-County Connecter (ICC). Franchot recognized how the project enhances quality of life for Maryland families by relieving traffic congestion. He also touted its positive effects on Maryland’s business climate by connecting the Baltimore and Washington metropolitan areas and making markets and businesses more accessible.