Prince George's Proud:
An Update From County Executive Alsobrooks
Dear Prince Georgians:
Last week, we joined our public safety agencies for the 46th Annual Public Safety Valor Awards to celebrate the best of our public safety personnel. The Valor Awards provide us the opportunity to acknowledge a few select people who rise above the high standard our public safety personnel work to uphold, and this year’s program was very special because it was the first time that we have been able to host the Valor Awards in person since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
When emergencies arise and our residents call for help, our public safety personnel are the first on the scene. When disaster strikes, their presence brings our residents hope that they will make it to the other side of the crisis. This selflessness is what our residents have come to expect, and it is what we come together year after year to admire. We come together to celebrate those who have gone above and beyond the expected call to protect our residents.
We want each of these individuals to know that we see what they do, and we thank them for the tremendous sacrifices they make while fulfilling their duty to protect and serve Prince Georgians. We know that sometimes the work they do feels unappreciated, but we want them to know that their sacrifices do not go unnoticed. All of our honorees are incredibly deserving of this recognition, and we thank them for their service to this County today and every day.
We also recently hosted our 2nd Nonprofit Symposium to help support our nonprofit organizations. Through this symposium, our goal was to connect nonprofit organizations to new funding opportunities. Nonprofits are such an important part of any community, often filling the gaps that local governments cannot and providing services that otherwise would not exist. These new funding opportunities have been made available because so many people understand the benefit these organizations provide in local communities and are actively seeking ways to distribute this funding and help extend services to more of our residents.
During this administration, we have provided nearly $10 million in grant funding to over 260 local nonprofits through our Community Partnership Grant (CPG) program, and we are continuing our efforts. We want to thank our Director of Strategic Partnerships, Barbara Holt Streeter, and her team for putting this symposium together, as well as all the elected officials, business leaders, and County organization leaders that joined us. We are all committed to helping expand and empower our local nonprofit community.
Yours in service,
Angela Alsobrooks
Prince George’s County Executive
2nd Mayor’s Appreciation Luncheon
 County Executive Alsobrooks hosted her 2nd Mayor’s Appreciation Luncheon on Wednesday, October 25. This luncheon provides an opportunity to thank our mayors for the work they do in their respective communities. Our County is home to 27 municipalities, each of which is led by a dedicated public servant who commits their time, energy, and effort to meet the needs of their residents. The investments we are making in Prince George’s County right now are the result of our collaboration with our municipal leaders, and we want to thank each of them for their efforts to improve the quality of life for those who call Prince George’s County home.
Transit Transformation Initiative Press Conference
 On Monday, October 30, County Executive Alsobrooks joined our Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T), U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen, MDOT Secretary Paul Wiedefeld, and other federal, state, and local officials to announce the launch of the County’s Transit Transformation initiative. This initiative has four dynamic programs: Zero Emission Bus Transition Program, Transit Forward, Transit Vision Plan, and Fall Service Changes. These programs will help Prince Georgians navigate our County, promote public safety and equity, and reduce emissions at the same time. We know that reliable, safe public transportation is a critical part of any growing community, and we want to thank all of our partners for working with us to advance these critical initiatives in Prince George’s County.
Public Safety Facilities Groundbreaking and Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies
 Our public safety agency leaders celebrated the opening of the Canine Training and Emergency Vehicle Operations Course Training facilities, as well as the groundbreaking of the Police Department’s new Special Operations Division headquarters on Monday, October 30. These new facilities will ensure our public safety agencies have the resources, tools, and training needed to effectively serve our residents. For us to have safe neighborhoods, we must invest in a strong public safety infrastructure. Safe neighborhoods are what Prince Georgians deserve, and we remain committed to continuing our efforts to create and maintain strong communities.
Bladensburg Library Ribbon Cutting
 County Executive Alsobrooks was excited to join Prince George's County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) leadership and staff, local elected officials, and community members to cut the ribbon on the new Bladensburg Branch Library on Wednesday, November 1. We recognize how important public libraries are to providing residents with needed resources, like reliable Wi-Fi, computer and printer access, community events, and an assortment of high-quality reading material. We encourage residents to visit our many libraries across the County!
2023 Grand Master’s Testimonial Ball
 County Executive Alsobrooks had a wonderful time joining The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Maryland Free and Accepted Masons, of Maryland and Its Jurisdiction, Inc. to honor Grand Master Osborne at the 2023 Grand Master’s Testimonial Ball on Saturday, November 4. Grand Master Osborne has honorably led Prince Hall, contributing to the betterment of the residents of our great County and our State. We were Prince George’s Proud to present him with a proclamation for his service to our community.
Blue Line Corridor CTE Forum
 On Monday, November 6, County Executive Alsobrooks joined Prince George’s County Public Schools to host a forum with students who are enrolled in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. These students are pursuing careers in media, hospitality and tourism, public safety, information technology, manufacturing and engineering, construction, and more. We got the opportunity to hear from them and get their ideas and perspectives on the programs they are in, on our Blue Line Corridor Project and how programs like CTE provide them with the skills needed to support the growth and development of our community, and what we can do to provide even more opportunities for them to succeed. We are Prince George’s Proud of these bright students and look forward to watching them continue to grow and thrive.
Final Expansion of Curbside Composting Begins
 The Department of the Environment (DoE) is announcing the final expansion of the County’s curbside composting program, PGC Composts. With this expansion, remaining residents receiving County-provided services can compost “Every meal. Every scrap. Every Monday.” This extra weekly waste collection service allows residents to sustainably dispose of food scraps and food-related items in addition to their yard trim on Mondays.
Eligible households should look out for your postcard in the mail! There is no need for you to do anything. All materials will be delivered to your residence to start composting, including a 32-gallon wheeled green cart, a 2-gallon kitchen pail, a How-To Guide, a refrigerator magnet, a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), and a list of acceptable compostable liners.
PGC Composts accepts your everyday food scraps, including fruits and vegetables, dairy products, bread and pasta, meat and bones, pizza boxes, seafood, and shellfish like Maryland crabs and pumpkins, in addition to yard trim. Items that are not accepted and can contaminate your compost include leftover grease or any liquids, plastic, Styrofoam™, diapers, pet waste, and household trash or litter.
Learn more information and view a list of acceptable and unacceptable items on the DoE website here.
Don’t Dump and Drive, Help Our County Thrive
Trash belongs in a bin–not on our streets. Don't toss your litter out the window. Let's keep our County beautiful! Learn more on the Part of It, Proud of It website here.
Curbside Bulky Trash Services
 Residents with County-provided trash AND recycling services can place up to 2 standard bulky items at the curb, next to your trash cart, for collection on your regular trash day. Appointments for white goods/appliances and scrap tires are still required via PGC311.
Learn about the faster and improved curbside bulky trash collection for Prince George's County on the Department of the Environment website here.
Board and Commission Appointments
We are Prince George’s Proud to congratulate several individuals who were recently appointed to County Boards and Commissions. We know that all of these individuals will do an outstanding job serving our residents in their respective roles. Please join us in congratulating the following Prince Georgians:
Fire Commission
 Mr. Antwan D. Holbert, Chair, Ms. Vanessa E. Surles, Vice Chair, Mr. Johnathan L. Bolden,
Mr. Danny L. Schaible
Washington Suburban Transit Commission
 Mr. Thomas Graham
Now Recruiting: Boards and Commissions Volunteer Positions
 Prince George’s County is seeking eager residents for multiple Boards and Commissions. These volunteer positions allow residents to actively participate in civic engagement and help shape the County. We currently have openings for the following positions:
- Art in Public Places Panel
- Board of Registration for Building Contractors
- Board of Registration for Master Electricians
- Commission for Animal Control
- Historical and Cultural Trust
- Refrigeration, Heating and Air Conditioning Licensing Board
- Taxicab Board
- Medical Advisory Board (General Physician, Neurosurgeon, Orthopedist, Physiatrist, and a Psychiatrist)
Email your letter of interest, resume, and position interest to pgcboardsvacancy@co.pg.md.us by Tuesday, November 21. Learn more information on the County’s website here.
Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund Survey
 Prince Georgians, the State wants your input on how they can direct a percentage of tax revenue from adult-use cannabis sales to communities disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition. The State of Maryland’s Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund is providing funds to each Maryland county to support this effort and they want to hear from you! Residents should complete the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund Survey by Friday, November 24.
Health Department Honored Breast Cancer Awareness Month With the “Tree of Hope and Remembrance”
 In October, the Prince George's County Health Department honored Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a meaningful gesture: the Tree of Hope and Remembrance. This tree was placed in the lobby of the Health Department and was adorned with pink breast cancer ribbons and other pink decorations, symbolizing support. Along McCormick Drive, leading to the Health Department, pink ribbons were displayed on trees to highlight the importance of this awareness campaign. Together, these actions in October served as a respectful and professional way to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month and show solidarity with those impacted by the disease.
PGCMLS to Host Laptop Giveaway for Families Qualifying for Affordable Connectivity Program
Qualifying households can sign up for affordable internet service and take home a free laptop through the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS). The next event is on Tuesday, December 5, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Laurel Branch Library. Attendees must register online and bring supporting documents to the event to get started. Families can speak to internet services providers, tech support, and enrollment specialists at each session. The laptops are available to program registrants, one device per household, who already use the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) or sign up for the program at one of the events. Households that meet the ACP requirements can save up to $45 on their home internet bills. Learn more information on the PGCMLS events website here.
Foster Parent Information Session
 Are you interested in becoming a foster parent in Prince George’s County? Join the Department of Social Services (DSS) for an Information Meeting on Saturday, November 18, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Largo-Kettering Branch Library to get more info on how to start your process. For more information about the session, contact Lisa Robertson at Lisa.robertson@maryland.gov or Xeina Gonzalez at Xeina.gonzalez@maryland.gov. Learn more about becoming a foster parent on the DSS website here.
Latino Affairs Liaison Meet & Greets and Listening Sessions
 Our Latino Affairs Liaison, Samantha Howard, is on a mission! For the next 30 days, she is hoping to get to know every resident in our community. That includes you! Samantha is eager to hear your stories, experiences, and perspectives on the issues that matter most to you. She is looking for your innovative ideas and solutions to enhance the quality of life for everyone. Sign up here today for the session in your district.
Sustainable Energy Workforce Development Program
 Are you interested in advancing your career in the sustainable energy field? Register for free online renewable energy courses to build your skills and advance your career. Prince George’s Community College (PGCC), in partnership with the Prince George’s County Department of the Environment, presents the Sustainable Energy Workforce Development Program (SEWDP). This program will provide occupational skills training and work-based learning to prepare eligible County residents for employment in the renewable energy industry.
Program requirements include:
- Prince George’s County, Maryland resident
- Possess a high school diploma or GED
- Relevant experience in the energy sector
Learn more and register on the PGCC website here.
M-NCPPC Prince George’s County Planning Board and Department Headquarters Relocating to Largo
 The M-NCPPC Prince George’s County Planning Board and Planning Department offices are moving to Largo starting November 9! Due to the relocation occurring from November 9-20, in‐person appointments with the Planning Information Counter and the Permit Review Section will be unavailable, as well as certain online applications and systems. During the transition, residents and stakeholders are encouraged to contact Planning Board and Planning Department staff via phone and email. Effective December 1, written correspondence should be mailed to the new headquarters. The new mailing address for the Prince George’s County Planning Board and the Prince George’s County Planning Department will be 1616 McCormick Drive, Largo, Maryland 20774. Learn more information about the new Largo headquarters on the M-NCPPC website here.
Feline Panleukopenia Outbreak at Animal Shelter
 The Prince George’s County Animals Services Facility and Adoption Center (ASFAC) is experiencing an outbreak of feline panleukopenia. This highly contagious viral disease infects cats, especially kittens, and kills cells such as bone marrow and intestines, and can be fatal. The disease does not affect humans, but humans can spread it to unvaccinated cats. To minimize the spread of the virus, the cat nursery room is closed off, and standard cleaning protocols are ongoing in those areas. Cat adoptions will proceed as scheduled in another designated adoption area. Dog adoptions and other pet services are not impacted at the ASFAC and will remain open. For more information about animal services and for updates, contact the ASFAC at 301-780-7200.
Prince George’s County Receives Donation from the Epsilon Phi Boule Foundation
 We want to sincerely thank the Epsilon Phi Boule Foundation for providing a $10,000 donation to help combat food insecurity in Prince George’s County, especially as we approach the holiday season. This is the third annual donation from the Foundation to help provide meals for our families in need. We are Prince George’s Proud of the work of the members of Epsilon Phi Boule to support residents across our County.
Transit Transformation Initiative to Bring Upgrades to County Bus System
 We recently announced our new Transit Transformation initiative, which will enhance transportation services for Prince Georgians and help us to maintain a cleaner, healthier County. Our vision for a transit-oriented future will enhance the quality of life for all residents, and we are Prince George’s Proud to take steps forward in further connecting our community. Listen to this story to learn more about the changes and how it will benefit our residents.
PGCPS Students Pitch Entrepreneurship Ideas at CTE Forum
 We are Prince George’s Proud of our Career and Technical (CTE) students for showcasing their entrepreneurship ideas at the County’s recent CTE Forum at Charles H. Flowers High School. These bright students had the opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas with County Executive Alsobrooks, Superintendent Millard House II, and other County leadership. Check out this story to hear some of our students pitch their ideas.
Bowie Native Makes USA Gymnastics History
 Photo Courtesy of Khoi Young
Khoi Young is a 20-year-old Prince Georgian who has made history for the U.S.A. during the recent 52nd Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Antwerp, Belgium, and is now the most decorated member of the U.S.A. Men’s Gymnastics team. Khoi is the 1st American male since 2003 to win three medals at a single world championship and the 1st American male since 1979 to win multiple individual apparatus medals at a single world championship. We are Prince George’s Proud of Khoi and encourage residents to join us in congratulating this dynamic young man on his accomplishments so far. We wish him the best in representing the U.S.A. and Prince George’s County in gymnastics in the future! Check out this article to learn more about Khoi and his accomplishments.
Oxon Hill Boxer Qualifies for 2024 Olympics
 Photo Courtesy of NBC4 and USA Boxing
Jahmal “Hard Rock” Harvey is a 20-year-old featherweight boxer from Oxon Hill who recently qualified for the 2024 Olympics in Paris! We are Prince George’s Proud of Jahmal and encourage residents to join us in congratulating him on his amazing accomplishments. Let’s be sure to cheer him on when he competes next summer. Listen to this story to learn more and Jahmal and his achievements so far.
10-Year-Old Clinton Native Named Back-to-Back State Motocross Champion
Photo Courtesy of Steven Green Jr. and Family
Steven Green Jr. (SJ) a 10-year-old from Clinton recently earned back-to-back State Championships in Motocross. Back in March, we were proud to highlight Steven as a youth motocross champion from Prince George’s. At that time, he was named the Maryland State Champion in his age category and had already won awards in races across the country. We presented Steven with an official proclamation to congratulate him on all he has accomplished in the motocross industry so far, and we are back to highlight him again on his newest accomplishment. Please join us in congratulating Steven and wishing him luck in his future races!
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