Prince George's Proud:
An Update From County Executive Alsobrooks
Dear Prince Georgians:
We are now accepting letters of interest and resumes for individuals wishing to be appointed as judge members for the Trial Boards that will be utilized by law enforcement agencies in Prince George’s County. The establishment of the Trial Boards is a part of the Police Accountability and Discipline Law that went into effect on July 1, 2022.
Each trial board shall consist of three members including:
- An actively serving or retired administrative law judge or a retired judge of the District Court or Circuit Court appointed by the County Executive pursuant to the process described below.
- A civilian appointed by the Board, who is not a member of the Administrative Charging Committee (ACC) or the Board; and
- A police officer of equal rank to the police officer accused of misconduct appointed by the chief of the law enforcement agency for which the accused police officer was employed at the time of the alleged misconduct.
The trial boards are responsible for adjudicating matters in which a police officer is subject to disciplinary action and shall comply with the provisions set forth in Md. Annotated Code Public Safety Article, Section 3-106.
Due to the large number of law enforcement agencies in Prince George’s County, County law states that the County Executive shall establish a roster of ten judge members who meet the qualifications to serve on a trial board in Prince George’s County. Judges will be selected in numerical order from the roster list as cases arise.
To be considered for this appointment, send a letter of interest and resume to: pgcboardsvacancy@co.pg.md.us no later than 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. The individuals selected will receive mandatory training on matters relating to police procedures from Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission and will also undergo a background check. Other training may also be required by the County. Interested applicants should note that this is not a full time/contractual position.
Yours in service,
Angela Alsobrooks
Prince George's County Executive
DSS to Welcome New Acting Director
 Effective Wednesday, May 1, 2024, Stephen Liggett-Creel will serve as the Acting Director of the Department of Social Services (DSS) until a permanent Director has been selected. Gloria Brown Burnett, the current Director of DSS, will now serve as the new Deputy Secretary of Operations for the Maryland Department of Human Services.
Mr. Liggett-Creel brings a combined two decades of operational management experience to his new role, having provided administrative oversight of residential facilities, foster care programs, and independent living services for older youth. Most recently, Mr. Liggett-Creel played an instrumental role in shaping the Office of the Secretary as a Senior Advisor. Not only has he been instrumental in responding to various lawsuits from a programmatic and practice perspective, he has also modeled true collaboration while serving as the Acting Executive Director of the Social Services Administration until January 2024.
Mr. Liggett-Creel is well prepared to step into this new role, having previously served 3 years as Director of the Howard County Department of Social Services and, prior to that, serving 6 years as Director Brown Burnett’s Chief of Staff at the Department of Social Services. In that capacity, he oversaw the Department’s operations, child and adult services, and community schools program.
Mr. Liggett-Creel will begin his tenure as Acting Director on Wednesday, May 1, 2024.
Revenue Authority Board Appointments
 We are Prince George’s Proud of Shameeka R. Price and E. Troy Washington, JD who were recently appointed to the Revenue Authority Board for Prince George’s County. We know that these individuals will do an excellent job of serving our residents on this board. Please join us in congratulating Ms. Price and Mr. Washington!
OVA Partners with Home Depot
Our Office of Veterans Affairs (OVA) is partnering with Home Depot to serve veterans in need. As a part of OVA's "We Care Veterans" program, this partnership is designed to assist veterans in need of services where they live and in need of residential upgrades to enhance their quality of life. Learn more and connect with the OVA here.
2024 Cultural Arts Festival at Creative Suitland
 Join Creative Suitland for the 2024 Cultural Arts Festival on Saturday, April 27, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Creative Suitland Arts Center. This festival is a heartfelt invitation to local artists, visionary small businesses, and community members to step into the light, showcasing their talents and passions to a receptive audience of families, fellow creatives, and enthusiastic patrons. Admission is free and will feature vendors, performances, and refreshments that are local to Prince George’s County and surrounding partners. Learn more and RSVP to attend here.
Redevelopment Authority Announces $200,000 Available in Community Impact Grants
 The Redevelopment Authority of Prince George’s County has $200,000 in Community Impact Grants to award to County civic/neighborhood associations or community-based organizations that are incorporated as 501(c)3 entities. Community Impact Grants provide small capital grants to community-based organizations to help implement innovative projects within the County. Eligible applicants must be located within Prince George’s County and be in good standing with the State of Maryland. The application submission deadline is Wednesday, May 29, by 12:00 PM. A Community Impact Grant pre-application virtual webinar will be held on Wednesday, April 24, at 11:00 AM. Interested participants should RSVP for the webinar by 5:00 PM on Monday, April 22 to receive the Zoom link and passcode to attend.
Blue Line Corridor Civic Plaza Planning
 Prince Georgians are encouraged to bring ideas to the table as planning for the Blue Line Corridor Civic Plaza moves forward. We need to hear from you! Contribute to the design of the Blue Line Corridor Civic Plaza. Teens are welcome, Student Service-Learning Hours (2) available.
We are so excited to be moving forward with one of our Blue Line Corridor signature projects, the Civic Plaza at Wayne K. Curry Administration Building. As we continue to plan, our team wants to hear from you. Bring your ideas to the table and contribute to the design of the Civic Plaza. Join us at our second community workshop on Thursday, April 25, from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM, at the M-NCPPC Headquarters in Largo. Student service-learning hours will be available. Find more information and register on the Strengthening Prince George’s website here.
DPIE Urges Spring Home Buyers to Beware of Unpermitted Construction
 As for-sale listings sprout like colorful flowers during spring, the Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement (DPIE) has a message for those looking to purchase a home: make sure the property is free of illegal construction.
Each year, many aspiring local buyers cross paths with unscrupulous “flippers” who purchase properties cheap, make shoddy repairs or changes without the required permits and inspections, then sell them to unsuspecting purchasers. Those buyers later experience problems related to the substandard construction. Projects such as erecting a deck, finishing a basement, remodeling a kitchen, and building an addition require permits and inspections.
Take steps before you buy to prevent you and your family from getting hammered in a bad deal. Hire a certified independent inspector to inspect the home and identify any problems with construction. You can also check for any permits that have been pulled for work on the property.
Walk away from any house with unpermitted construction or require the seller to fix the problems and secure the appropriate permits and inspections before you sign on the dotted line. Remember to notify DPIE so the seller can be held accountable. County law helps authorities act against flippers and others responsible for unpermitted construction.
For more information, including how to find out when a permit is required, check permits by address, or request copies of permits, revisit the DPIE website here or contact DPIEPIO@co.pg.md.us.
Applications for Social Justice Camp 2024 Now Open
 Applications for the Summer 2024 Social Justice Camp are now open for local teens! Jointly hosted by the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System and the Prince George’s County Office of Human Rights, Social Justice Camp is aimed at teaching teens how to engage in advocacy and activism, make connections in the community, and more. Past camp sessions have included lessons about young activists and social justice movements in the United States, community organizing, social entrepreneurship, and ethics. Sessions also helped to build leadership, research, time management, and problem-solving skills, and some focused on self-care and creative activities.
Teens can choose from one of two sessions: Monday, July 22 to Friday, July 26 at the Bladensburg Branch Library or Monday, August 5 to Friday, August 9 at the Fairmount Heights Branch Library, both scheduled from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Applications, which are expected to be competitive, are due by Tuesday, April 30. Applications will be reviewed by a committee and decisions will be sent on Friday, May 10, with those on the waitlist notified soon afterwards. Learn more and apply here.
Country Music Stars Chapel Hart in Conversation
 The Prince George’s County Office of Human Rights, Joe's Movement Emporium, and the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) will host a virtual conversation with rising country music stars Chapel Hart on Tuesday, April 23, at 7:00 PM. The Mississippi-based trio performed on “America’s Got Talent” in 2022 and received the show’s second-ever Group Golden Buzzer and have since made waves in the country music world, earning accolades from big stars like Tanya Tucker, Darius Rucker, and Dolly Parton, and going on a national tour in 2023. This virtual conversation will discuss their music, lives, and experiences knocking down doors for Black women in Country music. Learn more and register on the PGCMLS website here.
Town of Edmonston’s 100th Anniversary
 The Town of Edmonston is commemorating its 100th anniversary! Prince Georgians are invited to join in on the celebration at the Centennial Celebration on Saturday, June 1. The festivities will commence at 3:00 PM with a vibrant parade, featuring a procession through the town, accompanied by live DJ performances and entertainment acts. Following the parade, the festival will kick off at 4:00 PM, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display. From food trucks to live entertainment, games, pony rides, a foam party, and special recognition ceremonies for graduates and local businesses, it promises to be a day filled with joy and community spirit. Learn more on the Town of Edmonston website here.
FSC First’s Capital Matters Lunch and Learn
 Join FSC First for Capital Matters: Best Practices for HR Management with Insperity on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at 12:00 PM. This virtual lunch and learn will dive into the best practices for HR management with Insperity and provide valuable insights and strategies to enhance your HR processes. Whether you are a seasoned HR professional or just starting out, this event is perfect for anyone looking to improve their HR skills. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your HR game! Learn more and register here.
FSC First’s Unlock Your Profit Potential: Business Canvas Workshop
 Are you an entrepreneur or dreaming of becoming one? Do you wonder if your business idea has the potential to be both profitable and repeatable? Join FSC First for a transformative two-day workshop that will introduce you to the power of the Business Model Canvas, a strategic management tool that has revolutionized the way businesses approach development and innovation. The first session is on Thursday, April 25, and the second session is on Thursday, May 2, both from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. The
This workshop is more than just a learning opportunity; it's a chance to network with like-minded individuals and potentially find collaborators, mentors, or even investors. Whether you have a business up and running or are in the ideation phase, this workshop will provide you with the clarity and direction needed to move forward. Learn more and register here.
FSC First’s Capital Matters Spring Session
 FSC First’s Capital Matters Program is hosting its 2024 Spring session. This session includes 4 virtual workshops designed to assist entrepreneurs and businesses. Learn more about each session below:
Master Class on Essential Numbers for a Profitable Business
Tuesday, April 30
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Grants, Loans, and Funding Options for Your Growing Company
Tuesday, May 7
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Proposal Writing to Win B2G and B2B Contracts
Tuesday, May 14
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
How Your Personal Shows Up In Your Business
Tuesday, May 21
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Surratts-Clinton Branch Library Grand Opening
 The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) hosted a grand opening ceremony for the Surratts-Clinton Branch Library in Clinton on Monday, April 22, at 11:00 AM. The Surratts-Clinton Branch Library officially reopened to the public on Monday, March 4, after the branch had been closed to the public for five years during an extensive interior renovation.
PGCMLS' “Celebrate the Military Child”
 The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) joins other Maryland libraries to host “Celebrating the Military Child: A Reading Event for Active Military/Veteran Families” on Tuesday, April 23, at 6:30 PM at the South Bowie Branch Library. The event will feature a reading of the children’s book “Unstoppable Me” and provide information to active military and veteran families about library and community resources. The first 25 families at the event will also receive a copy of the book. Learn more and register on the PGCMLS website here.
Annual 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 at the Annual Senior Information Fair on Tuesday, May 14, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Explore the role that connectedness plays in supporting independence and aging in place. Information will be provided regarding programs and services for older adults. A box lunch will be provided for the first 250 registered attendees. Participants can also enjoy music and visit local vendors. This is an outdoor event. Learn more information and register here.
Men’s Challenge Initiative Spring 2024
 Join the Department of Family Services (DFS) for a new installment of the Men’s Challenge Initiative, a series of group discussions that seek to influence men and boys through conversations about developing healthy relationships. Topics of discussion for this spring edition include The Role of Men and Male Centered Service Providers in Identifying and Stopping Sex Trafficking, Child Support Systems and Child Support Calculation Presentations, Engaging Men in the Fight Against Domestic Violence, and more. Learn more information and register here.
Older Americans Month Elder Law Day
 In celebration of Older Americans Month, the Prince George’s County Advisory Committee on Aging is hosting a free, virtual legal presentation for older adults. Motivational Speaker and Attorney, Karen Pope-Onwukwe, will lead the discussion on Essential Documents Needed by Age 55. For more information, email the Advisory Committee on Aging at agingadvisory@co.pg.md.us or register here.
Celebrate National Fitness & Sports Month
 Physical activity plays an important role in maintaining health, well-being, and quality of life. Join the Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County throughout May for a variety of free and low-cost sports and fitness programs that will support your path to wellness. Check out the complete list of May is National Fitness & Sports Month offerings here.
County Executive Alsobrooks Receives UMD Carey School of Law 2024 Distinguished Graduate Award
 County Executive Alsobrooks was recently awarded the 2024 Distinguished Graduate Award from the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, joining a group of distinguished graduates and public servants. Learn more about the award and her journey into public service here.
Prince George's County Chef Named 2024 Maryland Chef of the Year
 Photo Courtesy of Chef Tobias and Huncho House
Each year, the Restaurant Association of Maryland (RAM) presents annual awards to several local industry leaders. This year, our very own Chef Tobias Dorzon was awarded the Maryland Chef of the Year Award. Chef Tobias is the proud owner of Huncho House in Hyattsville. Learn more about Chef Tobias and the awards here.
Maryland Tennis Star Presents $50K Grant to Local Tennis Center
 Photo Courtesy of WJLA
Local tennis star Francis Tiafoe recently presented a $50,000 grant to the Junior Tennis Champions Center in College Park. Check out this story to hear more from Francis and what this grant means so much to him.
Prince George’s County Participates in the NFBPA 2024 Conference
  The Office of Information Technology (OIT) provided two Artificial Intelligence (AI) subject matter experts that served as panelists during the 2024 National Forum for Black Public Administrators Conference in Baltimore earlier this month. OIT’s Manuel Castillo and Duane Prophet participated in various panels during the conference.
In addition, OIT Chief Information Officer and Director, Wanda Gibson, participated in a panel discussion entitled “The Implementation that Changed Worst-to-First in 2 Years.” This panel discussed the award-winning and unexpected strategic, financial, and operational benefits achieved in two short years through Prince George’s County’s commitment to its PGC311 operation, including success-factors used to build an effective Enterprise 311 operation, how to coordinate information internally across government agencies and executive offices, how to grow and sustain customer satisfaction, and how doing so enabled them to create useful trust with customers.
Prince George’s County continues to emerge as a digital leader, being rated the top digital county in the nation for the 3rd year in a row by Government Technology News. Learn more information about the conference on the NFBPA website here.
Ramadan Iftar
 County Executive Alsobrooks joined the Prince George's County Muslim Council to host the Ramadan Iftar on Monday, April 8. This is a period to reflect on renewing and strengthening your faith. It was wonderful to join our Muslim brothers and sisters to break bread, fellowship, and honor the core tenets of Ramadan. We want to wish all those who celebrated in Prince George's County and across the nation and world a blessed season.
Prince George’s County Caribbean Council’s Annual Red Dress Ball
 County Executive Alsobrooks celebrated Prince Georgians of Caribbean descent at the Prince George’s County Caribbean Council’s Annual Red Dress Ball on Friday, April 12. Throughout this region, there are over 83,000 immigrants with Caribbean roots, and over a quarter have made the choice to call our great County home. County. We always enjoy seeing our residents come out and take an active part in positivity that builds up and celebrates our community. We also want to congratulate each of the honorees for their efforts within the community and the Caribbean Council for all they do to support our residents.
PGCAC 50th Anniversary Celebration
 On Saturday, April 13, County Executive joined the super bad women of the Prince George's County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. (PGCAC) at the organization's 50th Anniversary Celebration! We want to congratulate PGCAC on celebrating 50 incredible years of sisterhood. The event provided an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the organization's longstanding commitment to social action and community service in this County.
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