Prince George's Proud:
An Update From County Executive Alsobrooks
Dear Prince Georgians:
We are excited to announce that Fitch, one of the three financial ratings agencies, has maintained the County’s triple-A bond rating and stable economic outlook. The ratings have also been removed from Under Criteria Observation.
We are very pleased that Fitch has once again maintained our triple-A rating. Despite our challenges with this year’s budget cycle, this rating is the latest sign that we have fought to maintain the fiscal health of the County. We have made tough choices but have kept our commitment to making the types of investments that will strengthen our County in the long run, and we will continue moving forward with our economic growth strategy and fiscal discipline in our budget so we can maintain our County’s stable economic outlook.
Fitch cited “the rating reflects the county's historically strong operating performance supporting its 'AAA' financial resilience assessment. The 'AAA' assessment reflects a 'high midrange' level of budgetary flexibility and Fitch's expectation that reserves will be maintained at or above 10% of spending (compared to the current 33%).”
This announcement of our triple-A bond rating from Fitch is especially timely as I prepare to deliver my annual State of the Economy Address on Thursday, June 13. The Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation and Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable hosts this annual event to highlight the County’s economic development accomplishments and vision for the next year. Prince Georgians can tune in to my State of the Economy Address. We'll share details on how to do that soon.
Yours in service,
Angela Alsobrooks
Prince George's County Executive
Stormwater Practice Evaluation Workshop
 Do you want to learn more about how to care for your rain garden, rain barrel, conservation landscaping, trees, and permeable pavement? Join the Alliance for the Bay and the Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professionals (CBLP) for an interactive Stormwater Practice Evaluation Workshop on Saturday, June 1, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM, at Dandelion Foodscapes in Hyattsville. The workshop will educate residents throughout the Anacostia Watershed on evaluating their existing stormwater practices and determining the proper maintenance for valuable environmental benefits. Residential property owners will receive training on assessing each component of their stormwater practice, including what to look for, preventative care tips, and what maintenance should be performed to correct any issues. Learn more information and register here.
The Health Assures Fund
The Health Assures Program is a fund used to reimburse Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) to relieve the burden of uncompensated care for uninsured patient visits. The overarching goal of the program is to make low-cost/free medical, behavioral, and dental care visits and testing services available to those who are eligible (uninsured, ineligible for insurance or other government assistance programs, at or below 200% Federal Poverty Level, and currently residing in Prince George’s County). These individuals are often undocumented. Health Assures services are provided through the County’s six FQHCs who bill the fund for negotiated costs.
Health Assures, which was started in 2018, was historically funded in the amount of $250,000 per year from the County General Fund. In fiscal year (FY) 2021, Health Assures was expanded significantly through the addition of $2.8 million in CARES funding to cover COVID-specific patient services. In FY 2022, $2.8 million in ARPA funding was added, along with the standard $250,000 from the County general fund, for a total of $3,050,000 in local and federal funding. The sum of $5 million was allocated in FY 2023 and FY 2024 from ARPA funds.
Despite the difficult budget year, the Alsobrooks Administration demonstrated its commitment to improving the health of Prince George’s County residents by allocating $4.250 million in FY 2025 to continue funding the Health Assures program. It is one of the many steps being taken to create conditions in the County where every resident has optimal opportunity to be as healthy as possible.
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There’s Still Time to Apply to Alsobrooks Summer Passport Experience
 Calling all County youth ages 12 to 15! Apply now for the Alsobrooks Summer Passport Experience. This award-winning program provides opportunities for fun and growth in a wide range of areas including STEM, health and beauty, self-care, mental health, trades, and entrepreneurship. Learn more and register here.
Prince George’s County Police Department 2nd Annual Pride Walk
 Join the Prince George’s County Police Department for the 2nd Annual Pride Walk in recognition of June as Pride Month! The walk will take place on Sunday, June 2, at 10:00 AM at the National Harbor. Check-in for the walk begins at 10:00 AM. The walk will be along the local trail within National Harbor and end with a fun filled celebration at the Great Awakening. Participants will enjoy live entertainment and receive information on LGBTQIA+ resources within Prince George’s County.
Pride recognition originated as an outcome of the Stonewall Riots in New York in 1969 to recognize the impact the LGBTQIA+ community had across the globe. The original Pride marches took place in 1970 in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago to commemorate Stonewall. Pride Month is now observed every year during the month of June and is celebrated in many ways all around the world.
We encourage residents to stay tuned for more information. Be sure to follow PGPD on Twitter @PGPDNews to stay updated on upcoming events and more!
Artificial Intelligence Workshop: Innovation Through Responsible AI
 The Office of Information Technology in partnership with several other organizations, conducted an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Workshop: Innovation Through Responsible AI on Wednesday, May 15, at the Southern Regional Technology & Recreation Complex in Fort Washington. This event was a day of compelling workshops to prepare County Government employees and partners for the inevitable impact of AI across the government, education, and public safety sectors. Panels included special guests from the National Association of Counties, Microsoft, Bowie State University, and Google. The workshop was an opportunity for participants to hear leading security experts’ thoughts on ethical considerations and potential bias associated with the development of AI technologies, learn from early adopters who have experienced success in using new digital technologies in government, discuss how AI can affect workforce development through the creation of new roles or disrupt the current industry, and how to prepare students and employees for the changing digital landscape. Check out the video of the workshop to learn more.
Hot Joe’s Summer Series
 Hot Joe's Summer Festival Series is back in June! Join Joe’s Movement outdoors this summer for a festival vibe with craft and food vendors, hands-on art activities for kids, and performances from some of our summer favorites! Bring your own chair and good energy to add to the vibe! Event parking will be limited, so biking and walking is encouraged. Stay tuned for a parking location update and learn more on Joe's Movement Emporium's website here.
Saturday, June 29
5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
featuring Proverbs Reggae Band
Saturday, July 20
5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Saturday, August 17
5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Saturday, September 14
5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Summer Prince George’s 2024
 Sign up today for Summer Prince George’s 2024! Brought to you by the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) and the Washington Nationals, this annual summer program encourages residents of all ages to stay connected with baseball and reading,
From now until August 15, children, teens, and adults are encouraged to read for 30 minutes each day, as well as attend library programs, explore our collection of books, DVDs, and online resources, and more. Try a new book or activity this summer, and embrace this year’s theme, “Adventure Begins at Your Library!”
Participants can sign up in-person and online through Beanstack to be eligible for challenge prizes that will be available later in the summer. Learn more details about Summer Prince George’s, sign up for the program on Beanstack, and look for an event at a branch near you on the PGCMLS website here.
Spring 2024 Cohort Graduate from the Neighborhood Planning Academy
 The Prince George’s County Planning Department hosted a graduation ceremony with capstone project presentations to celebrate the spring cohort of the Neighborhood Planning Academy on Wednesday, May 15, at the M-NCPPC Headquarters in Largo. This spring, 40 representatives, reflecting all regions of Prince George’s County, were selected from more than 230 applications to participate in a seven-week program to learn the ins and outs of the planning framework in Prince George’s County, how to engage in the development review process, and how to advocate for their community goals and visions. Learn more about the Neighborhood Planning Academy’s 2024 Cohort on the M-NCPPC website here. Prince George’s County residents and stakeholders are encouraged to join the mailing list to receive announcements on applications for the Fall 2024 cohort and upcoming courses.
Building a Healthier Community: Step It Up II
 The County Health Department (HD) is thrilled to announce the next event under the "Step It Up II" Health and Fitness Campaign. Join the HD, in collaboration the Department of Parks and Recreation and supported by County agencies, on Saturday, June 27, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, at Tucker Road Athletic Complex in Fort Washington. This dynamic five-month initiative started in May and will run through September. The program aims to inspire and empower residents to take charge of your health journey through engaging activities and events focused on physical activity and wellness. Whether you're a seasoned fitness enthusiast or just starting your wellness journey, there's something for everyone. Let's “Step It Up” together and make our County a healthier, happier community! Register to participate on the HD website here
G.O.A.T. Expo
 The 3rd Annual G.O.A.T. Expo was a huge success! We want to thank all of the youth and teens who participated, as well as our Health Department and their partners for hosting an incredible event that focused on the importance of mental health and wellness. Our goal is to provide the necessary tools and resources that allow our young people to grow and to thrive and we remain committed to supporting them in every way that we can.
Celebrate Caribbean American Heritage Month
 June is Caribbean American Heritage Month! Join the Department of Parks and Recreation as they honor the rich, vibrant culture of our Caribbean community. Bring the whole family out for fan-favorite events that feature live music, food vendors, and youth-focused activities from the Department. Learn more about Heritage events in June on the Department of Parks and Recreation website here.
DPIE Urges Residents to Protect Their Homes During Building Safety Month
 As the Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement (DPIE) celebrates Building Safety Month in May, the agency is sharing tips for County residents and business owners on how to protect their homes and their families.
- Maintain working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Refrain from storing flammable materials on your property.
- Keep walkways and stairs free of clutter.
- Ensure appliances are in good repair.
- Make needed electrical, mechanical, and structural fixes immediately.
Among the biggest threats this time of year is storm-related damage due to the uptick in hurricanes, tornadoes, thunderstorms, floods, heavy rains, and hail that come with warm weather. Any of these conditions can turn a beautiful warm day into a dangerous situation in your home. One of DPIE’s most important functions is making sure structures built in the County are safe. The permitting and inspection process is the best tool to guarantee structures are built safely and more likely to withstand weather damage.
- Take precautions and prepare your family.
- Develop a family evacuation plan.
- Establish at least two exit routes from your home or neighborhood to a designated meeting place for your family; include a plan for your pets.
- Create a disaster supply kit for use if you remain in your home or are forced to evacuate after a disaster and stay tuned to the internet, TV, and National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio for storm updates and information.
Learn more information about Building Safety Month here. For more information and tips from DPIE, email DPIEPIO@co.pg.md.us.
Help Us Help Them
 The Prince George's County Animal Services Facility and Adoption Center (ASFAC) wants everyone to "Help Us Help Them" by adopting or fostering a pet, volunteering at the shelter, spaying or neutering and microchipping your pets, or donating needed supplies. Your kindness and generosity will make a tremendous difference in the lives of our shelter pets. Find room in your heart and/or home for a FUR-ever friend. Learn more information on how you can help on the ASFAC here.
Small Business Capital and Growth Stimulus Fund
 Calling all entrepreneurs and business owners! Whether you are planning to start a Prince George’s County based business, grow or expand your existing business, hire new employees, or retain the ones you have, the Small Business Capital and Growth Stimulus Fund is here to support you. FSC First is a designated Fund Manager for the Small Business Capital and Growth Stimulus Fund. Funds are provided for Prince George’s County businesses seeking business expansion, business capacity-building, business retention, job creation and job retention. There are dedicated funds for tech startups and tech expansion. Businesses can qualify for a loan and/or a grant. Learn more information and apply on the FSC First website here.
National Public Works Week
 The Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) celebrated National Public Works Week from May 19 through May 25! In 1960, the American Public Works Association wanted to honor public works professionals who plan, design, build, manage, and operate infrastructure that ensures a higher quality of life for our communities. In Prince George’s County, DPW&T consists of more than 350 employees that are dedicated to upholding public safety and keeping the County functioning. DPW&T manages more than 2,000 miles of County roadway, operates the local transit system, oversees more than 800 storm water facilities, and maintains sidewalks, curbs, gutters, over 900 bridges, and other critical transportation infrastructure in the County. Learn more information about National Public Works Week on the American Public Works Association website here.
RideSmart
 DPW&T's RideSmart program is an initiative focused on reducing drive alone trips to improve air quality in Prince George’s County. If you are interested in alternative commute options like bike sharing and carpooling, or if you are simply interested in adding public transit to your routine, the RideSmart team can help! Email DPW&T at info.pgcridesmart@co.pg.md.us or follow the RideSmart program on LinkedIn @RideSmart Commuter Solutions to learn more.
TVP Transit
 The Office of Transportation within DPW&T participated in WMATA’s launch of the Better Bus Network Redesign at Hyattsville Crossing Metro Station. This is the first event of six upcoming pop-up events that DPW&T will participate in around the County. During the event, DPW&T shared information about the upcoming community stakeholders event taking place on Wednesday, May 29, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, that will present the Transit Vision Plan. The Better Bus Network is an initiative to rethink, redesign, and revitalize bus services to better serve the needs of customers in the region. DPW&T is providing updates on their aspirational network, and encouraging residents, riders, and community members to join and discuss Transit in the County, hear updates on our Spring Service Change, and more transit options that will benefit the community. Register for the upcoming virtual meeting here. Learn more information on Transit Vision and upcoming events on the DPW&T website here.
Prince George’s County Honors 2024 Teacher of the Year
 Photo Courtesy of PGCPS
We are Prince George’s Proud of Ms. Kathy Russell on being named the 2024 Prince George's County Teacher of the Year! Ms. Russell has been with the Prince George’s County School System for 26 years and is a Language Arts teacher at Rose Valley Elementary School in Fort Washington. Please join us in congratulating Ms. Russell and wish her luck as she competes for the title of Maryland Teacher of the Year.
Community Celebration Day
 On Saturday, May 18, our Veterans Affairs Liaison, Dr. Dula, had the pleasure of joining veterans, military families, and community members at the Community Celebration Day hosted by Andrews Federal Credit Union in celebration of their new location in Upper Marlboro.
AYLI Recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month
 On Tuesday, May 21, in recognition of Mental Health Awareness month, Alsobrooks Youth Leadership Institute (AYLI) members participated in a mental health workshop focused on expressing gratitude, coping mechanisms, and positive self-affirmation presented by our County Health Department and In Reach Inc., a nonprofit organization that works to equip individuals to become powerful advocates for themselves and their communities. Following the workshop, AYLI members relaxed with a Popcorn and Paint activity where they painted calming scenes for the mind and soul.
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