Prince George's Proud:
An Update From County Executive Alsobrooks
Dear Prince Georgians:
Last October, our County hosted the 64th Annual Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) at The Show Place Arena at Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro in collaboration with the Town of Upper Marlboro and the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), Department of Parks and Recreation. We were extremely excited to host the WIHS, as it marked both the first time the show was hosted in the County in over 20 years and its highly anticipated return to the Washington, D.C. region after two years.
Today, we are proud to share that the WIHS contributed a total of $9.85 million to the County’s local economy, according to an economic impact study conducted by Mr. Stephen S. Fuller, Ph.D., University Professor Emeritus at George Mason University. According to the economic impact study, the direct spending by the WIHS to stage the show, in addition to the spending by vendors, exhibitors, spectators, and competitors, totaled $7.045 million over the course of the seven-day event. As a result of this direct spending, another $2.055 million was generated in new personal earnings for employees residing in Prince George’s County due to re-spending of payroll and business income by employees, vendors, and exhibitors before and after shows.
The economic impact study also reported that the WIHS attracted a large number of visitors to Prince George’s County, with over 15,000 spectators from across the country and world attending. The WIHS also attracted approximately 1,450 vendors, exhibitors, and participants including competitors, owners and trainers, managers, and show-related support personnel. In addition, the WIHS supported 69 full-time, year-round equivalent positions, with approximately 45 of the positions being occupied by County residents.
We sought to bring this prestigious equestrian event back to Prince George’s County because we recognized the impact it would have on our local economy and our community. As a result of the monumental success of last year’s show, we are excited to announce the return of the event to The Show Place Arena at Prince George’s Equestrian Center this year from October 23-29, 2023. We encourage you to visit the WIHS website here to learn more about this year’s event.
I have often said that greatness grows in Prince George’s, so we are proud to have the opportunity to host some of the most talented equestrian riders from across the country and world right here in our County. We want to thank the WIHS Board of Directors and our partners for all of their efforts to make this event a huge success last year and look forward to welcoming them back to Prince George’s this October.
Yours in service,
Angela Alsobrooks
Prince George’s County Executive
Show Us Some Love
This summer, organize your neighborhood clean-up! You can make a big difference in your community and your environment. Learn more on the Part of It, Proud of It website here.
Forever Fit Update: Garden Project Success
The Office of Community Relations’ (OCR) Forever Fit Program is a comprehensive initiative aimed at engaging and giving back to older adults in our communities through education and activities centered around health and wellness. One of the program’s standout events was the Senior Garden Project, held on Wednesday, April 19, at The Manor at Victoria Park in Temple Hills. OCR staff and 25 residents of the community joined together to plant over 50 flowers and vegetables in the garden. The OCR team recently returned to The Manor at Victoria Park to see how the garden was coming along and was delighted to learn that residents were cooking meals with the herbs and vegetables from the garden. OCR looks forward to upcoming Forever Fit events throughout the summer and beyond.
Food & Friends Welcomes County’s LGBTQIA+ Liaison
 We want to thank Food & Friends for having Antonio Driver, our LGBTQIA+ Liaison, stop by for a wonderful visit! He was able to learn more about the positive and impactful work they are doing for our residents and how the LGBTQIA+ community in our County can support their efforts.
Board and Commission Appointments
Our office officially welcomed several community members that were appointed to Prince George’s County Boards and Commissions after they were recently confirmed by the County Council. We are Prince George’s Proud of these individuals and thank them for their willingness to serve our community.
Personnel Board
 Pictured: Yvonne Hefley, Darlene M. Neal, Delores M. Stuckey (Board Chair), Ike B. Udejiofor
Fair Election Fund Commission
 Pictured: Suchitra C. Balachadran, Monika L. Jackson, Keisha A. Nelson, Janna Parker, Diane Williams, Daniel C. Smith
Solid Waste Advisory Commission
 Pictured: Nancy J. Meyer, Not Pictured: Mouhaman S. Kola
Board and Commission Recruitment
 Our office is currently seeking applicants for multiple Boards and Commissions. These volunteer positions allow County residents to actively participate in civic engagement and help shape our County. We have current openings for the following:
Art in Public Places Panel
Board of Registration for Building Contractors
Board of Registration for Master Electricians
Board of Ethics
Commission for Animal Control
Commission on Common Ownership Communities
Fair Election Fund Commission
Historical and Cultural Trust
Park and Recreation Advisory Board
Refrigeration, Heating and Air Conditioning Licensing Board
Revenue Authority
Spending Affordability Committee
Taxicab Board
Wage Determination Board
To be considered for any of these positions, please send a resume and letter of interest indicating which Board/Commission you wished to be considered for via email to pgcboardsvacancy@co.pg.md.us by August 4. If there is a good match, you will be contacted for an interview. Learn more about specific Boards and Commissions on the County’s website here.
Common Ownership Communities’ Road Show is Off to a Great Start
 The Office of Community Relations’ (OCR) Common Ownership Communities (COC) Unit has been actively bringing County Government to condominium associations, homeowners associations, and cooperative housing communities. Through the Roadshow Tour, COC staff is engaging, educating, and empowering governing bodies in an effort to manage their community operations through attendance at virtual and in-person meetings and events.
The Roadshow Tour is an integral part of OCR’s commitment to embrace communities on an individual level. COC staff is dedicated to working with County neighborhoods to provide education, resources, and training to foster financially sound, safe, healthy, and thriving communities. If you are interested in inviting the COC Unit to your community meeting, email coc@co.pg.md.us.
Do You Have Health Insurance Through Medicaid or the Maryland Children’s Health Program?
 The County Health Department is committed to keeping the community informed about important healthcare updates. In April 2023, Maryland reinstated Medicaid eligibility reviews, which means that automatic renewals will not be in effect this year. Please note that not all Medicaid recipients will need to renew at the same time. Instead, the renewal process will be conducted over the next 12 months, ensuring a smooth transition for recipients.
To ensure continuous access to essential healthcare benefits, Medicaid recipients must keep their information up to date with Maryland Health Connection. When it's time for your Medicaid coverage to be renewed, you will receive a notice by mail or through your online account. This notice will provide clear instructions on how to proceed with the renewal process.
Stay informed, stay prepared, and ensure uninterrupted access to your healthcare benefits. Learn more information and get answers to questions on the Maryland Health Connection website here or the Maryland Department of Health website here.
D. Leonard Dyer Regional Health Center Temporarily Closed
 The County Health Department’s D. Leonard Dyer Regional Health Center in Clinton is temporarily closed through mid-August to undergo essential renovations and improvements. During the closure period, the County Health Department has made alternative arrangements to ensure uninterrupted access to healthcare services. County Health Department staff will be available at the following locations:
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program:
- Schedule a telephone appointment by calling 301-856-9600.
- Locations:
- Cheverly Health Center: 3003 Hospital Drive, Cheverly, MD 20785
- Central Avenue: 7836 Central Avenue, Landover, MD 20785
HIV/AIDS (HAP) Program:
- Cheverly Health Center: 3003 Hospital Drive, Cheverly, MD 20785
Learn more information about the facility renovations on the County Health Department website here.
PreventT2 Program: Reduce Your Risk of Diabetes
 The County Health Department is excited to offer the PreventT2 Program, a free year-long class to prevent or delay Type 2 diabetes. Developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this program provides proven strategies for a healthier lifestyle. The classes are conducted online and led by trained lifestyle coaches. A recent CDC study shows that participants in diabetes prevention programs were less likely to develop Type 2 diabetes. Those who did develop diabetes could delay its onset by about four years.
Residents who are 18 or older, have prediabetes, are overweight, or exhibit prediabetes risk factors, are encouraged to register. Check your eligibility based on the following blood-test levels:
- Hemoglobin A1c: 5.7-6.4
- Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: 140-199 mg/dL
- Fasting Glucose Test: 100-125 mg/dL
- Prediabetes Risk Test: Score 5 or higher
Enrolling in the PreventT2 Program offers the following benefits:
- FREE year-long program
- Learn how to eat healthy while enjoying your favorite foods
- Manage weight, increase physical activity, and handle stress
- Guidance from trained lifestyle coaches
- Connect with supportive participants and win giveaways
To register for the program, call 301-856-9465 or email wellnessinfo@co.pg.md.us. The online classes will be held on Tuesday afternoons, starting August 22.
PGPD Hiring Crossing Guards
 The Prince George’s County Police Department is now hiring school crossing guards! Residents interested in helping to keep our children safe during the school year are encouraged to apply. For more information, call 301-780-8175 or email Police_Recruiting@co.pg.md.us. View the application and apply online here.
“Stuff TheBus" Back to School Supply Drive
 The Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) has officially kicked off their annual “Stuff TheBus” Back to School Supply Drive! Help our students get ready for the upcoming school year by dropping off school supplies at the DPW&T office in Largo between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM until Friday, August 18.
ARPA Funding at Work in Prince George’s County
 On March 11, 2021, President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) into law. Under the Act, $350 billion was provided for eligible state, local, territorial, and Tribal governments to respond to the COVID-19 public health emergency through the Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund (CSFRF) and the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (CLFRF).
Prince George’s County was awarded $176.6 million, with $32.3 million allocated to support investments in stormwater management and flooding infrastructures. Learn more information about ARPA on the County’s website here and check out the image above for more information about the first phase of the Liberty Sports Park, an ARPA-funded project.
Kitten Shower
 The Department of the Environment’s Animal Services Division (ASD) will host a Kitten Shower on Saturday, July 29, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM to recruit new bottle baby fosters, accept donations, and offer workshops on underage kitten care and neonates with the help of the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA). Participants are asked to bring donated items for underage kittens and the nursing moms population, such as KMR milk, bottles, syringes, blankets, toys, and more.
RSVP to Foster Coordinator Leann Parker at fosterpgpets@co.pg.md.us. For more information, visit the ASD website here.
Solar Panel Co-Op for County Residents
 Capital Area Solar Switch is making it easier for residents to go solar. By joining, residents will be part of a group buying program that makes solar more affordable and simplifies the process. As a renewable power source, solar energy plays a vital role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combatting the increasing effects of climate change. Clean energy sources like wind and solar can help address climate change, air pollution, and health.
Sign up to receive a personalized solar recommendation at a discounted price. Participation is free, and there is no obligation to accept your recommendation. The program is open until Wednesday, August 30, but the sooner you sign up, the faster you can switch to solar!
Learn more information and register for free on the Capital Area Solar Switch website here.
What’s in Your Cart?
That’s a scrap! Leftover food, including bones, shells, produce peels, and more, can go right in your curbside compost bin for Monday pickup. For a complete list, visit the Department of the Environment website here.
Are You Looking for Farmers Markets in Prince George’s County?
 Looking for farmers markets in Prince George’s County? Check out the County’s farmers market listing, which includes dates and times of markets, vendor opportunities, and nutrition benefits* accepted at each market!
View the list of markets here.
*Nutrition benefit matching available! Look for the Maryland Money Market (MMM) icon to find participating Farmers Markets. MMM is a statewide food access program that feeds Marylanders and supports farmers by removing economic barriers for those experiencing food insecurity, providing a dollar-for-dollar match for purchases made using federal nutrition benefits at participating Maryland farmers markets in Prince George's County.
2023 Project HIRE Graduation
 On Friday, June 30, the Department of Family Services’ (DFS) Project HIRE program recognized the achievements of their latest round of apprentices at the Project HIRE Apprenticeship Program Graduation. The event, held at the Comfort Inn Conference Center in Bowie, celebrated the accomplishments of the apprentices, supervisors, and job coaches who participate in the program. Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Tara Jackson provided welcoming remarks, presented the Project HIRE Program with a proclamation, and praised the 10 apprentices who worked tirelessly throughout the program. The graduating apprentices received certificates of completion and gave a presentation about their job duties and host agencies. Many of the apprentices also accepted permanent positions with their host agency and will be full time employees with the Prince George’s County Government.
Project HIRE is an apprenticeship program that provides individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities, between the ages of 18 and 25, with a paid job training experience with a County Government agency. Participants are placed with a job coach within a host agency for one year. During this time, apprentices have an opportunity to enhance their current skills, learn new skills, and gain on the job work experience. Learn more information about Project HIRE on the DFS website here or call 301-265-8450. View the graduation photos here.
Father’s Day Pledge
 The Commission on Fathers, Men and Boys (CFMB) recently hosted the Father’s Day Pledge at the Fraternal Police Lodge 112 in Upper Marlboro. The annual event celebrates outstanding fathers and father figures in the community and highlights the influence men have to create and maintain healthy relationships. The goal of the initiative is to inspire change by securing more than 1,000 community members pledges. The pledges/signatures are to end domestic violence, support survivors, educate others to no longer be a bystander, and make an effort to engage in and encourage healthy relationships. The Father’s Day Pledge boards were distributed to government agencies, nonprofit organizations, businesses, companies, churches, and other places of worship and then collected and displayed at the event. The signatures demonstrate the County’s collective and united vision of a community free of domestic violence led by men. The evening concluded with the CFMB presenting several members of the community with this year’s Fatherhood Awards.
Project HIRE Apprenticeship Graduate Wins Special Award
We are sending a special congratulations to Project HIRE Apprenticeship Program graduate, Jasmine Richards! Jasmine has been interning in the Office of the County Executive since October 2022. At her graduation ceremony, she received the 2023 Patricia Sanders Spirit of Excellence for Outstanding Apprentice Award! We want to thank the Project HIRE program for their efforts to support and assist individuals with disabilities in our community. Please join us in congratulating Jasmine on this amazing accomplishment.
9-Year-Old Prince Georgian Nominated for Emmy
 Photo Courtesy of HBO and WUSA9
We are Prince George’s Proud of our very own Keivonn Woodard, who was recently nominated for an Emmy for his portrayal in HBO’s “The Last of Us.” Keivonn is only 9 years old and is already breaking barriers as a deaf, Black hockey player and actor. We want to congratulate Keivonn on his nomination and are excited to cheer him on during the official ceremony later this year. Check out this article to learn more about Keivonn’s nomination.
Department of Parks and Recreation Discovers Historic Fossil
 Photo Courtesy of John Domen/WTOP
The Prince George’s County’s Department of Parks and Recreation’s Dinosaur Park made a huge discovery, uncovering the largest theropod fossil discovered in Eastern North America. Overall, thousands of fossils are believed to be in the rock at Dinosaur Park, making Prince George’s County one of the best dinosaur sites on the eastern seaboard. Check out this article to learn more about this historic discovery.
National Harbor’s Escapology Donates to County’s Police Athletic League
 Photo Courtesy of DC News Now
We want to thank the new escape room at National Harbor, Escapology, for donating $2,500 to our Police Athletic League (PAL) to help expand opportunities for youth. We are excited to welcome a great new partner in our business community to Prince George’s County. Check out this article for more on PAL and how this donation will support their efforts.
|
