Prince George's Proud: An Update From County Executive Alsobrooks
Dear Prince Georgians:
We are excited to announce that registration for the 2024 Alsobrooks Summer Passport Experience (ASPE) is now open! Established during the summer of 2021 and spearheaded by our Office of Stakeholder Engagement and Affairs, this award-winning program offers County youth ages 12 to 15 years a variety of summer activities and programs.
When we started this initiative, our goal was to provide our youth with engaging and productive activities during the summer months, but we also wanted the experience to be fun and educational. The ASPE offers activities and programs based on three Es: Education, Entrepreneurship, and Experience/Entertainment. In addition, the program provides access to programs in STEM, health and beauty, self-care, mental health, trades, and entrepreneurship. In fact, we are pleased to offer more than 40 opportunities for youth that sign up to participate in the program this summer.
We are proud of this program as it has proven to be successful in supporting our youth during the summer and encourage our young people to take advantage of this amazing opportunity. The program kicks off on Monday, July 8, and ends on Saturday, August 10. Interested youth can register here through Wednesday, May 29, at 5:00 PM.
We also wanted to take this opportunity to wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all of the mothers and mother figures who are celebrating here in our great County and all around the nation this weekend. Mothers provide unconditional love and support that strengthens and uplifts us each and every day. We encourage all Prince Georgians to take this opportunity to celebrate the women who have made an impact in your life.
Our sincerest wishes for a blessed and wonderful Mother’s Day weekend.
Yours in service,
Angela Alsobrooks Prince George's County Executive
Bike to Work Day
 May is Bike Month! Grab your bike and helmet and join the Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) on Friday, May 17 for Bike to Work Day. There will be 11 Bike to Work Day Pit Stops in the County and 110 across the Metropolitan region. DPW&T, in partnership with M-NCPPC and the Prince George’s Countywide Bicycle & Pedestrian Safety Community Advisory Group, is hosting a Bike to Work Day Pit Stop at the Largo/Kettering/Perrywood Community Center from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Register in advance here to obtain a free Bike to Work Day t-shirt. Learn more about Bike to Work Day here.
Make Your Commute Amazing…Make it Active!
 Commute to Work by walking or biking, everyday! While you are getting active, check out the incentives you can qualify for. For more information, contact the Department of Public Works and Transportation at info.pgcridesmartsolutions@co.pg.md.us or visit the RideSmart website here.
Older Americans Month Resource Fair
 In recognition of Older Americans Month (May), the Department of Family Services Aging and Disabilities Services Division (DFS) would like to recognize the impact of meaningful relationships and social connections on health and well-being. Join DFS on Tuesday, May 14, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, for the Annual Senior Information Fair. Explore the role that connectedness plays in supporting independence and aging in place. Information will be provided regarding programs and services for older adults. Lunch is sold out; however, participants can still enjoy music and visit local vendors. This is an outdoor event. Learn more information on the DFS website here.
Men’s Challenge Initiative to Discuss Aviation in the Black Community
 Join the Department of Family Services (DFS) for the third workshop under the Spring Edition of the Men’s Challenge Initiative on Tuesday, May 14, at 6:00 PM. This workshop will be held virtually and will feature guest speaker, Gabriel J. Christian, Esq., who will discuss aviation within the Black community and discover methods to inspire young Black men and women to consider pursuing careers in aviation. The Men’s Challenge Initiative is a series of group discussions that seek to influence men and boys through conversations about developing healthy relationships with the goal of providing programs that provide positive and constructive outlets for men. Learn more on the DFS website here.
Father’s Day Pledge
 The Department of Family Services' (DFS) Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking Division will host its Father’s Day Pledge Initiative on Thursday, June 13, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, at the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 112 in Upper Marlboro. The purpose of the Father’s Day Pledge Initiative is to bring fathers, young men, uncles, women, businesses, and community organizations together to take action and inspire change to prevent violence against women. Residents are invited to make a pledge and commit to nurturing positive relationships by signing a Pledge Board. With your help, we pledge to end domestic violence. Learn more information and register to attend here.
FSC First Presents Proposal Writing to Win B2G and B2B Contracts
 Are you struggling to secure government or business contracts? Join FSC First for the Proposal Writing to Win B2G and B2B Contracts webinar on Tuesday, May 14, at 5:30 PM to learn the secrets to crafting winning proposals. FSC First’s expert speakers will share tips and strategies to help you stand out from the competition and land lucrative deals. Don't miss this opportunity to level up your proposal writing skills and boost your chances of success. Register to attend here. Participants will receive the Zoom link when they register.
DPIE Invites Residents and Business Owners to Virtual Forum
 Have a question about code violations in your community or the process to obtain a permit to build a deck? The Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement (DPIE) experts will answer questions and address resident concerns about unpermitted businesses, property maintenance requirements, and more at the next DPIE Third-Thursday Community Information Session on Thursday, May 16, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. DPIE hosts these quarterly sessions virtually on the third Thursday of the month to give residents and business owners the chance to interact directly with agency leadership and staff. Participants will be introduced to a panel of DPIE experts, see a brief presentation of updates and helpful information, then given the opportunity to ask questions and share concerns. No registration is necessary. Submit questions in advance to dpiepio@co.pg.md.us. For more information, call 301-636-2053.
Interfaith Conversation: Pilgrimage in Faith
 Join the Prince George’s County Office of Human Rights, in partnership with Greenbelt Community Church, on Monday, June 3, at 7:00 PM for the latest in their Interfaith Conversations series, which invites religious leaders from a wide range of faiths to discuss various topics and how different issues impact or are impacted by their faith. The theme for this discussion is “Pilgrimage in Faith.” Panelists will consider what pilgrimage means for and from their faith perspective and whether they have experienced pilgrimage in their own lives. How do we understand the world, ourselves, our faiths, and the experiences of others more deeply or differently through pilgrimage? What does pilgrimage mean for the rest of us, whoever the “rest of us” are? Learn more and register for this free event here.
Operation Base Camp Veterans Career and Resource Fair
 The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) and the Prince George’s County Office of Veterans Affairs will host the Operation Base Camp Veterans Career and Resource Fair on Wednesday, May 15, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, at the South Bowie Branch Library. Veterans and military families can learn about job-related resources and how to build their skills, as well as connect with potential employers. A virtual version of the job fair will also take place on Wednesday, May 22, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM. Register for the in-person or virtual event on the PGCMLS website.
Mobile Shower Service at Largo-Kettering Branch Library
The Largo-Kettering Branch Library, in partnership with The Neighborhood Well, is hosting a mobile shower service on Saturday, May 18, from 10:00 AM -1:00 PM. Each participant will receive towels, washcloths, and other toiletries to bathe and groom in a safe and welcoming space. Register on the PGCMLS website here to reserve a space.
PGCMLS’ Death Cafes
 Talk about life, death, and everything in between at upcoming Death Cafes hosted by the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) and Capital Caring Health. Death cafes allow participants to gather in a non-judgmental environment to discuss end-of-life topics such as funeral planning, cultural beliefs, and personal reflections on death.
Death Café Wednesday, May 15 at 2:00 PM Laurel Branch Library 507 7th Street · Laurel, MD 20707
Death Café Wednesday, May 22 at 2:00 PM Upper Marlboro Branch Library 14730 Main Street · Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
“Navigating Loss: Bereavement Support Group” presented by Capital Caring Health Tuesday, May 21 at 2:00 PM Upper Marlboro Branch Library 14730 Main Street · Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
A Conversation with David M. Kennedy
The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) invites the public to attend “A Conversation with David M. Kennedy,” a virtual presentation on Wednesday, May 15, at 2:00 PM. Mr. Kennedy is a Professor of Criminal Justice at New York City’s John Jay College of Criminal Justice, the Faculty Chair of the college’s National Network for Safe Communities, and the developer of the focused deterrence homicide prevention approach. Register to attend on the PGCMLS website here.
|
Community Conversation with PGCMLS CEO Mark Winston
Join the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) and the Prince George’s County Office of Human Rights (OHR) for a Community Conversation with PGCMLS CEO Mark Winston on Thursday, May 23, at 4:00 PM. Maryland native Dr. Mark Winston began his new role as CEO in January 2024, becoming PGCMLS’ first Black CEO. Winston, an author, columnist, and book reviewer, held a number of library management and university faculty roles before coming to Prince George’s County. Register to attend on the PGCMLS website here.
|
Household Hazardous Waste & Electronics Recycling Mobile Events
 Effective April 15, due to ongoing construction, the Household Hazardous Waste (HHW), Electronics Recycling (E-waste) acceptance sites, and other associated lots at the Brown Station Road Sanitary Landfill are closed to residential traffic and customers until further notice. Residents can temporarily take electronics to the Brown Station Road Convenience Center for proper disposal or drop off at one of these upcoming mobile events:
Saturday, June 15 Largo Government Center 9200 Basil Court · Largo, MD 20774
Saturday, July 27 Largo Government Center 9200 Basil Court · Largo, MD 20774
Saturday, August 17 High Point High School 3601 Powder Mill Road · Beltsville, MD 20705
Saturday, September 7 Accokeek Branch Library 15773 Livingston Road · Accokeek, MD 20607
Saturday, October 5 Largo Government Center 9200 Basil Court · Largo, MD 20774
*NOTE: Latex paint is NOT hazardous waste. Please allow the paint to dry completely before bagging and placing it in your trash cart. View the list of acceptable items on the Department of the Environment's Electronics Recycling and Household Hazardous Waste webpages.
Bulky Items Drop-off Temporarily Closed at Landfill
 Ongoing construction at the landfill and associated lots have impacted the drop-off of bulky items. These items must be taken to the Brown Station Road Convenience Center in Upper Marlboro for proper disposal.
Items include:
- Bulky trash from standard household items such as furniture, mattresses, cabinets, doors, and carpet
- White goods and appliances such as refrigerators, air conditioners, washers, dryers, etc.
- Scrap metal
- Cooking oil (up to 5 gallons)
- Residential car & pickup truck tires up to five (without rims)
Learn more about accepted and unaccepted bulky items on the Department of the Environment website here.
Animal Shelter Resumes Accepting Pets
 Effective Wednesday, May 1, the Prince George’s County Animal Services and Adoption Facility (ASFAC) has resumed accepting pets whose owners can no longer care for them. In addition, all adoption fees, including spay and neuter services, have returned to their original price schedule.
ASFAC had suspended the intake of owner-surrender dogs due to space constraints and the facility undergoing a deep cleaning protocol for diseases. The facility will continue to provide updates regarding its ongoing operations as evaluated by veterinarian professionals. Learn more information on the ASFAC website here.
Save the Date – 2024 Green Summit
 Join your Department of the Environment (DoE) as they celebrate ten years of the Prince George's County Green Summit! This year’s summit will be held on Saturday, October 19, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, at the David C. Driskell Community Park in Hyattsville. This free, one-day event will feature green exhibitors, pet adoptions, eco-friendly vendors, sustainable tips, giveaways, food trucks, music, kid-friendly activities, and fun for the whole family! Registration is preferred, though not required. Learn more information on exhibitor and vendor opportunities or register on the DoE website here.
Free Document Shredding
 The Department of the Environment (DoE) is hosting a free document shredding event. Join DoE on Saturday, May 18, from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, at Henry Wise High School in Upper Marlboro to shred and recycle documents with sensitive information. This free event is open to the public (non-commercial only) and offers an easy, safe, and secure disposal of personal documents - no CDs or credit cards. There is a five-box maximum per car and residents must be in line by 1:00 PM to receive service. Remember to remove all bindings, such as paper clips and staples. Documents will not be accepted by walk-up or from businesses. Learn more information on the DoE website here or contact PGC311.
Elevate Your Health: Step into Spring with the Adult Behavioral Health Expo
 May is Mental Health Awareness Month and Physical Fitness and Sports Month! Join the County Health Department and the Department of Parks and Recreation at the Step into Spring with the Adult Behavioral Health Expo on Saturday, May 11, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, at the Southern Regional Technology and Recreational Complex in Fort Washington. This free interactive community event is dedicated to providing behavioral health and wellness resources to adults at every stage of life. The County Health Department encourages all residents to embrace the spirit of spring and prioritize your mental and physical well-being at the Spring into Wellness: Adult Behavioral Health Expo! Learn more and register to attend on the County Health Department website here.
Supporting Youth Wellness: Experience The G.O.A.T Expo
Mark your calendars Prince Georgians! On Saturday, May 18, Bowie State University's campus will transform into a vibrant hub for the 3rd Annual Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.) Youth Mental Health Expo! Hosted by the County Health Department’s Step Forward Program, Volunteers of America Chesapeake and Carolinas, and the Bowie State University Graduate Student Association, this unique event unites youth advocates, health providers, and companies dedicated to equipping County youth and their caregivers with essential tools and support for well-being. From engaging work sessions and wellness experiences to interactive activities and live entertainment, there's something for everyone.
With featured speakers and performers including Jazmiera Smothers, Dr. Chanda Reynolds, and Legacy Severe, along with insightful sessions and exhibitors, this expo promises to be an enlightening and empowering experience. Registration is free but required, so don't miss your chance to be part of this impactful event. Together, let's take positive steps towards enhancing youth mental health through early detection, access to treatment, and fostering a supportive community. Learn more about the expo here.
Unveiling of King Douglas Way: Community Remembrance and a Call to Action
 In April 2021, the life of King Douglas, a 13-year-old boy full of promise and potential, was taken in the parking lot of Richie Marlboro Station. On Saturday, April 20, the Office of Community Relations, in collaboration with NAI Micheal and Ja’Ka McKnight, hosted a street renaming of King Douglas Way. Family, friends, elected officials, and clergy gathered at the corner of Ritchie Station Court (and formally Chesapeake Beach Parkway) to unveil a lasting tribute to King’s life.
This event was about more than just remembrance; it was a call to action. As a symbol of the organizers’ commitment to preventing acts of violence mental health service providers, crisis intervention specialists, violence interrupters, and Public Safety recruiters were onsite to provide resources and support to our community. This event serves as a reminder that we all have a role to play in building a safer, more resilient community.
Prince George’s County Fleet Recognized on NAFA Best 100 Fleets in the Nation List
 Prince George’s County’s top-ranking Fleet did it again! Recognized by the NAFA Fleet Management Association, the County’s Fleet program is hailed to be one of the most effective and innovative in the nation! Aligning with the County Executive’s Proud Priority “Quality of Life Supported by a High Performance Government,” the Office of Central Services’ (OCS) Fleet program continues to make strides in environmental sustainability and service excellence. Please join us in congratulating OCS on being awarded this distinguished honor in 2024! Learn more about the award on the NAFA website here.
Laurel High School Wins First-Place Honors in 2024 Prince George’s County Envirothon Competition
 The Prince George’s Soil Conservation District (PGSCD) is pleased to announce that Laurel High School recently won first-place honors in the 2024 Prince George’s County Envirothon Competition. Seventeen teams from eleven Prince George’s County high schools were tested in five categories: aquatics, forestry, soils, wildlife, and this year’s fifth issue, “Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future.” Please join us in congratulating the students and staff of Laurel High School on this amazing accomplishment.
Prince George's County Celebrates 40 Years as Tree City USA Awardee
 On Monday, April 25, Prince George’s County officials joined members of the Prince George’s County Beautification Committee, volunteers, and Frances Fuchs Early Childhood Center staff and students to plant 24 native trees and shrubs in honor of Arbor Day! Prince George's County is the only County in Maryland to receive the Tree City USA Award for 40 consecutive years! The award recognizes jurisdictions across the country for their commitment to greening up communities and managing and increasing public trees. To secure trees for your community, contact Carole Barth, DoE Tree Conservation Program Manager, at cabarth@co.pg.md.us.
OCR: Spotlight on a Prince George’s County Unsung Hero
In the heart of Prince George’s County, there are individuals whose quiet dedication and selfless acts often go unnoticed. Among them is Mrs. Althea Bullock, a devoted resident for over 40 years, who embodies the spirit of an unsung hero. Mrs. Bullock has been a steward of her neighborhood for more than fifteen years. Her commitment to the community was recently highlighted when she was seen single-handedly tidying the curbside along Annapolis Road.
To honor her exemplary service and the impact of her often-unseen contributions, Office of Community Relations Director, Euniesha Davis, visited Mrs. Bullock’s home and presented her with a certificate declaring her an OCR Community Champion. Along with the certificate, Mrs. Bullock received a selection of OCR’s most sought-after items to aid her in her invaluable community work. Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Bullock and celebrate her as a shining example of what it means to be Prince George’s Proud!
Eagle Harbor Groundbreaking Ceremony
 In celebration of Earth Day, the Department of the Environment (DoE) held a Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Eagle Harbor Stream Restoration and Community Resiliency Project on the construction site at 23600 Patuxent Boulevard in Eagle Harbor. DoE Director Andrea Crooms and Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Infrastructure, Technology, and Environmental Services Floyd Holt joined the Mayor of Eagle Harbor Noah Waters, Eagle Harbor Sanitation Commissioner Linda Moore-Garoute, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, and GreenVest LLC representatives for the ceremonial groundbreaking.
|