The First Dog

Governor-elect Pat McCrory held a press conference in Raleigh this afternoon to announce members of his transition team and priorities for their work leading up to his inauguration.

McCrory said he wanted his administration to establish a culture of customer service, explaining that as Mayor he was always out among the people, talking with and listening to them. To demonstrate his point he said that he and his wife Ann had walked from his temporary offices in the Albemarle Building to the Capitol, greeting people along the way.

What did they talk about? McCrory didn’t elaborate but did say Governor Perdue was most gracious and offered her help in the transition, even going to far as to talk about the moving into the Executive Mansion on Blount Street in Raleigh.

But what about the First Dog? Your reporter was unable to ask about “Mo,” the two year-old canine the McCrory’s own. We’re not sure about the bloodline but we understand Mo is not a plothound, the official state dog. Inquiring minds will want to know if Mo will be given free reign of the mansion, if special fencing will be needed or special dietary considerations. More to follow.

Some of the transition team members are well known. John Lassiter, former Charlotte City Councilman is transition leader, along with Former Lt. Governor Jim Gardner is also a team member. Kelly Nicholson, policy advisor for UNC Health Systems, is serving as transition policy advisor. Thomas Stith, Kenan Institute program officer is Transition Director and is being assisted by John Baldwin. Chris Walker will be communications director. Others introduced include Tony Almeida, former Duke Power exec, who will be advising on economic development. Other team members mentioned include former legislators Joe Mavretic, Johnathan Ryhne and Art Pope. Longtime advisor and campaign manager Jack Hawke will also play an active role in transition, as are former Governors Jim Holshouser and Jim Martin.

No date has been set for the inauguration but there is speculation it might be Saturday, January 5^th. McCrory admitted he had no idea how much was involved in putting on an inauguration, between the Balls, breakfasts, parade and all the other details, quickly adding his number one priority was putting together the team to take leadership.

McCrory said he was looking for the best talent in North Carolina to fill positions in the administration, as well as on boards and commissions. Anyone interested in serving can visit the website www.workingforpat.com