Prince George’s Proud:
An Update From County Executive Alsobrooks
Dear Prince Georgians:
The 2022 Maryland Gubernatorial Primary Election is underway, and we want to take this opportunity to encourage all eligible Prince Georgians to plan your vote during this election season. As a reminder, early voting in the County ends today, Thursday, July 14 and Primary Election Day is Tuesday, July 19.
Residents can vote in-person throughout the remainder of early voting at any of the 13 early voting centers located in the County. Early voting centers will remain open until 8:00 PM. Residents who choose to vote in-person on Primary Election Day should vote at their assigned polling location. To locate your assigned polling location, visit the Board of Elections website here. If you are not already registered to vote, bring your MVA issued Driver’s License or ID card to your assigned polling location, and you will be allowed to register and vote.
We recognize that many of you are traveling with your friends and family this summer, and that is why we are continuing to encourage residents, who have already requested a mail-in ballot, to utilize one of the 38 safe, secure drop boxes located throughout the County for voters to deposit their completed ballots. Be sure to sign the oath on the return envelope to ensure your ballot is counted. It is also important to remember that vote by mail ballots must be dropped off by 8:00 PM on Tuesday, July 19, to be counted and vote by mail ballots submitted via the U.S. Post Office must be postmarked by Primary Election Day.
If you missed the deadline to apply for a vote by mail ballot, you may visit the Prince George’s County Board of Elections office in Largo to request one in-person. In addition, if you requested a vote by mail ballot prior to June 30, and have not received it, please contact the Board of Elections so they can check the status of your request and ensure you receive another ballot. The Board of Elections has safeguards in place to ensure that each voter only casts one ballot. For more information, e-mail the Board of Elections at boeabsenteevoting@co.pg.md.us or election@co.pg.md.us.
As we approach Primary Election Day, we are encouraging all Prince Georgians to be proud vote during this election season. Remember to take a friend, family member, or coworker with you to the polls and have your voices heard. If you need additional information on the primary election or have questions about the voting process, contact the Board of Elections at 301-341-7300 or visit their website here.
Yours in service,
Angela Alsobrooks
Prince George’s County Executive
Designate an Agent
 Did you know that you can designate an agent to pick-up and return your ballot? If you need someone else to pick-up and return your vote by mail ballot for you, you may designate a friend or family member to do so. For more information, call 301-341-7300 or visit the Board of Elections website here.
New COVID-19 Testing Site
 The University of Maryland Medical System and the State of Maryland have opened a new COVID-19 testing site in Prince George’s County at the UM Bowie Health Center. The site offers free COVID-19 PCR testing on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Saturdays, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Appointments are not required, and there is no charge to patients. Free at-home test kits are available while supplies last. Find additional COVID-19 testing sites on the County Health Department website here.
Any individual experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should be tested, even if they have been vaccinated. The CDC also recommends the following people continue to test, regardless of symptoms:
- Those who are planning to travel or who have returned from travel.
- Those with frequent interactions with the public.
- Those who are working in health care and congregant settings.
- Those who are notified of close contact with a confirmed COVID-19 patient (test at least five days after exposure or immediately if you have symptoms).
- If you are unsure if you should be tested, please contact your health care provider.
COVID-19 Vaccination Update
Vaccine Supply & Administration
- The County Health Department has provided over 223,900 vaccinations, including 26,500 additional doses to those who are fully vaccinated.
- During the first two weeks of July, the County Health Department has provided over 120 vaccinations at the Cheverly Health Center and Maternal/Child Health Center at Laurel.
- Our mobile units have provided over 80 vaccinations in the community during the first two weeks of July, focusing on homebound and senior residents.
- More than 19,200 vaccinations have been provided to children ages 5 to 11 years since the vaccine became available for that age group in November 2021.
- Over 60 vaccinations have been provided to children under the age of 5 since the vaccine became available for that age group in June 2022.
Vaccination Locations
 The County Health Department no longer operates a standing mass vaccination clinic. The COVID-19 vaccine is available through the County’s mobile vaccination units or at the Cheverly Health Center and Maternal/Child Health Center at Laurel, by appointment only. There are a number of vaccination sites available in Prince George’s County that are not operated by the County. Please remember that we neither manage nor control appointments or distribution for any locations not operated by the County Health Department.
Prince George’s County Health Department
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Cheverly Health Center and Maternal/Child Health Center at Laurel: To schedule an appointment, individuals should visit the County Health Department website here.
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Mobile Vaccination Units: The County’s mobile vaccination units are typically reserved for homebound residents and other high-risk residents who require assistance in getting access to the vaccine. Individuals who are interested in our mobile vaccination units should call PGC311 and press # for assistance.
Additional Non-County Operated Sites
- Please use our County Vaccine Locator to find additional vaccination sites operated by pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare partners.
Progress Toward Vaccination Goals
- Over 1,658,800 vaccinations have been provided to 704,126 County residents, including 592,358 second doses and 362,364 additional doses.
- As of June 30, the CDC is reporting 95% of adults ages 18 and older have received at least one vaccination in the County, and 85.4% are fully vaccinated.
- When including all residents ages 5 and older, 95% of residents have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 81.2% are fully vaccinated.
- The CDC reports 48.8% of residents ages 18 and older who are fully vaccinated have received a booster or additional dose as of June 30.
- Approximately 34.8% of County residents ages 5 to 9 years and 64.8% of County residents ages 10 to 19 years are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
County News For You
Boards and Commissions Appointments
Commission on Animal Control
 The Commission for Animal Control recently welcomed three new members: Bonaventure Akinlosutu, Ph.D., Kathleen DeNobile, and Caitrin Conroy.
Board of Library Trustees
 The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System recently welcomed back Sylvia Bolivar. In addition, the Board gained two new members: Robert M. Fernandez and Patrice Garnette.
Human Rights Commission
 The Human Rights Commission recently welcomed new appointee, Brindisi Chand. There were also five reappointments: Wendi J. Howard, Sylvia L. Johnson, Ademola M. Oduyebo, PsyD, Charlene D. Proctor, Esq., Chair, and Joseph S. Reed.
Library Honors Black Marylanders' Military Service
 The Prince George's County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) will host a special event in honor of the military service of Black Marylanders from the colonial era on Tuesday July 26 at 6:30 PM at the Oxon Hill Branch Library. Featured speakers will include Brigadier General Janeen L. Birckhead, Commander of the Maryland Army National Guard, Dr. James Dula, Prince George's County Office of Veterans Affairs, Dr. Glenn T. Johnston, Stevenson University and Exhibit Curator, Shane Warren, Warren Builds and Exhibit Sponsor, and Council Member At-Large Mel Franklin Jr. This event is presented in conjunction with the exhibition "In Freedom's Name: Maryland's Black Men and Women and Their Defense of Liberty," on display at the Oxon Hill Branch Library now through July 26. This event is free, but registration is recommended. The event will also be livestreamed here. To learn more about this and other upcoming events, visit the PGCMLS website here.
Back-to-School Immunizations
 The County Health Department is now hosting free back-to-school immunization clinics at PGCPS school-based wellness centers throughout the month of July. Immunizations are by appointment only and can be scheduled by visiting the County Health Department’s website here. COVID-19 immunizations are also available for adults and children in families who have made back-to-school immunization appointments at these clinics.
Global Monkeypox Outbreak
 There is currently a global outbreak of monkeypox, which is a rare viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus. Countries around the world that usually don’t report any cases have seen an uptick, including the United States. Over a dozen cases have been confirmed in Maryland. While monkeypox cases are increasing, the general population is currently at low risk of contracting the disease. Monkeypox can make you sick with a rash or sores (pox), sometimes with a flu-like illness. The rash goes through different stages before healing completely. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.
The virus is spread through sustained close, or skin-to-skin contact with someone who has monkeypox. For more information including testing, treatment, and prevention, visit the Maryland Department of Health monkeypox website here.
Collections and Assessments in a Common Ownership Community – Virtual Meeting
 Join the Prince George’s County Commission on Common Ownership Communities for a virtual discussion on Collection and Assessments on Wednesday, July 27 at 3:00 PM. These assessments are used for: utilities, maintenance and repairs, insurance, reserve funds and to provide staffing for an association. The guest speaker will be Commissioner Nicole A. Williams, Esq. To join the discussion, click here and enter the meeting ID: 846 1185 9070 and passcode: 897472.
OCR Celebrates Independence Day with the Town of Bladensburg
 In commemoration of our nation’s 246th birthday, the Office of Community Relations (OCR) joined the Town of Bladensburg to celebrate Independence Day. Over 200 attendees from across the County came together for a riveting fireworks display. The OCR team had the opportunity to share information about the new PGC311 mobile application and distribute agency resources. The Office of Community Relations thanks the Town of Bladensburg’s administrative team for the opportunity to partner for this wonderful event.
There is Music in the Air
The City of Bowie presents it’s “Summer Concert Series” every Sunday, now through Labor Day. Residents are invited to come out and enjoy an evening of Blues, Big Band, Classical, Reggae, Rhythm & Blues, and more. The Office of Community Relations’ “311 On The Go!” team will be at each event to share information, distribute Covid-19 test kits, and offer valuable resources to County residents.
The Prince George’s County Mentor Protégé is looking for Mentors!
 What is in it for Mentors? Did you know contracts with mentor protégé components benefit primes that have entered into agreements with proteges by providing preference points?
Mentors do not have to be certified. Participate in open opportunities regardless of certification status!
Being a Mentor is easy! Mentors are able to easily locate protégés listed on the Business Highway along with applicable NAICS codes for teaming opportunities. Visit the Business Highway here to learn more.
Americans with Disabilities Act Celebration
 Join the Commission for Individuals with Disabilities and the Department of Family Services (DFS) on Wednesday July 20, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, for a virtual celebration to commemorate the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA has expanded opportunities for Americans with disabilities by reducing barriers, changing perceptions, and increasing full participation in community life. We are proud to recognize the progress that has been made by reaffirming the principles of equality and inclusion and recommitting our efforts to reach full ADA compliance. To join the celebration and for more information, visit the DFS website here.
Prince George’s County Exercises Right of First Refusal Tool to Preserve Affordable Rental Housing in Landover
 The Prince George’s County Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) exercised its Right of First Refusal (ROFR) in the purchase of Verona at Landover Hills, a multi-family rental in Landover. The property consists of 25 separate buildings on nearly 30 acres and includes a total of 727 units. Through the ROFR acquisition, 545 units will be preserved as affordable.
Since the revamping of the Right of First Refusal program early last year, Prince George’s County has preserved the affordability of 1,213 multi-family units to date. The Verona at Landover Hills was acquired by a joint venture between Dantes Community Partners, L&M Development Partners and Goldman Sachs Urban Investment Group. The partnership also plans to invest an additional $20 million to further renovate units and the exterior of the property.
Hurricane Season – Be Prepared!
 Hurricane season runs through October. These next few weeks can see a higher likelihood of hurricanes or tropical storms forming in the Atlantic Ocean, which could threaten our region.
Here are some tips to lower your risk for property damage and personal injury in a major flood event:
- If you are experiencing drainage problems or other concerns, the Department of the Environment (DoE) may be able to assist. Contact PGC311 to request a site investigation.
- Minimize the potential for property damage by elevating utilities, installing flood openings, or elevating your property. Talk with your insurance agent for more information and consider purchasing flood insurance. Visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's website here for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
- Sign up to receive notifications of potential flood events from the County’s public communications system - Alert Prince George's here. Stay abreast of developing conditions before and during a storm by tuning to local radio and television news stations or visiting the National Weather Service (NWS) website here.
- Don't forget about your furry family members and pets! Be sure to include them in your preparations and plan in advance in case a disaster strikes. View our Pets and Disaster: Get Prepared! brochure here for tips on how to include them in a disaster plan, such as creating a portable survival kit, finding safe places that accommodate pets and more!
Compost Mini Bin Tips
County residents who receive curbside food scraps collection are encouraged to learn how to properly use your 2-gallon mini bin for successful composting.
- Keep your mini bin in a convenient location in your kitchen, such as on the countertop, under the sink or in the refrigerator/freezer.
- Use it to collect and store food scraps inside your home.
- Empty all food and food-soiled items into the green Organics cart.
- Do not place your mini bin at the curb OR in the green cart for collection.
For more information, visit the Department of the Environment website here.
Prince George's County Announces Redevelopment Plans for Former Hospital Site in Cheverly
 Last week, County Executive Alsobrooks hosted an event to announce the redevelopment plans for the former Prince George’s Hospital site in Cheverly. The redevelopment will bring 1,000-plus units of housing activated by 40,000 square feet of retail, hospitality, and multi-use space. Check out this article featuring more about this redevelopment project.
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