AANHPI Heritage Month, Special Election, PGC311 Text Notifications, and More!

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Monday, May 5, 2025

Celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month

Dear Prince Georgians: 

During the Month of May, we proudly recognize Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich history, culture, and countless contributions of AAHHPI communities to our County and our nation. 

The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC) named this year’s theme for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month as “A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience.” This theme honors the hard work of AANHPI leaders who work to establish a foundation for future generations to thrive and adapt to change and adversity.  

We are proud of the diversity and richness that the AANHPI community brings to our neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, and public service. Throughout the month, the County is hosting a variety of family-friendly events and celebrations that highlight heritage, foster cultural exchange, and strengthens our community. We encourage all Prince Georgians to come together in celebration and reflection as we honor the legacy and impact of the AANPI community. 

Lastly, we encourage all Prince Georgians to be Proud to Vote during this election season. Bring a friend, family member, or coworker and make your voice heard. For more information on voter registration, mail-ballots, or polling locations, visit the Board of Elections website or contact their office at 301-341-7300.

Yours in service,

Tara H. Jackson
Acting Prince George’s County Executive

Proclamation

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Events

🌸 Filipino Culture Ready 2 Read Storytime 

PGMLS

Saturday, May 10 | 10:00 AM | New Carrolton Branch Library 

Celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month with a joyful storytime and playday for children ages 0–5. Enjoy stories, songs, fingerplays, and more in a fun, engaging environment that honors Filipino culture. Register here. 


🌼 Global Tales and Traditions Series: Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage

Parks n Rec

Saturday, May 10 | 11:00 AM | Surratt House Muesum

Embrace AANHPI’S culture by exploring a variety of traditions and how they are preserved in the Global Tales and Traditions Series. At this event, Ohana Means Family by Ilima Loomis will be read with illustrations by Kenard Pak, and cherry blossom windsocks will be made. Register here.


🎨Craft and Create: Ukiyo-e Neko 

PGMLS

Saturday, May 17 | 2:00 PM | Accokeek Branch Library  

Explore the whimsical world of ukiyo-e cat prints and learn about Japanese artistic traditions. This hands-on program also showcases cultural contributions in culinary arts and entertainment. Register here. 


County News For You

 DCA South of Airport Noise Abatement and Mitigation  

DCA

Join Department of the Environment (DoE) on Tuesday, May 20, at 6:30 PM in a community discussion to discuss and provide feedback on proposed flight procedure changes from Reagan National Airport. These changes may impact noise levels in nearby communities. Fort Washington, Accokeek, and Oxon Hill residents are encouraged to participate. Get more information, visit the Department of Environment here. 


New Operating Hours at Animal Services Facility and Adoption Center 

Animal Center Hours

The Prince George's County Animal Services Facility and Adoption Center (ASFAC) has updated its hours to make connecting with the shelter's animals easier.  

New Hours of Operation: 

Tuesday - Friday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (All services available) 

Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (All services available) 

Sunday and Monday: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM (All services available except adoptions) 


May is Fitness Month 

May is Fitness Month

Throughout the month of May, the Department of Parks and Recreation provides a variety of free and low-cost fitness events for all ages and abilities. Whether you’re kickstarting a new healthy journey or maintaining your active lifestyle, there’s something for everyone. View the full schedule and register for events here. 


Pull Up & Play  

Pull

Join the Department of Parks and the Pull Up Fund for an unforgettable afternoon of sports, fun, and family vibes at “Pull Up & Play” on Saturday, May 10, at 2:00 PM. Enjoy live entertainment, free food and giveaways, interactive games, fitness activities, sports demos, and more. Learn more here. 


Now Open: The Prince George’s County Free Seed Library 

Now Open: The Prince George’s County Free Seed Library 

The Prince George’s County FREE Gardening Season! Come get a library card and explore what free seeds the Hyattsville Branch Library has to offer! 


PGC311 Text Notifications  

311

The Office of Community Relations is making it easier than ever to stay informed. When you submit a service request to PGC311, include your mobile number to get real-time updates straight to your phone—plus a quick link to share feedback through our satisfaction survey.  Visit the PGC311 websitehere or download the PGC311 mobile app to submit a request and start receiving text alerts today.  


Alternative Dispute Resolution  

Alternative Dispute

Living in a homeowners or condo association can come with challenges—from parking disagreements to property maintenance disputes. That’s where the Office of Community Relations (OCR) steps in. Through its Common Ownership Communities (COC) Unit, OCR offers free Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) services to help neighbors resolve conflicts before they escalate. One of the key tools is mediation—a voluntary, confidential process where trained mediators help all parties talk through their concerns, find common ground, and reach a mutually acceptable solution. It’s about preserving community harmony and empowering residents to resolve issues collaboratively. If you’re facing a dispute in your neighborhood, don’t wait. Contact OCR at 301-952-4729 or email coc@co.pg.md.us to request mediation and get support navigating community conflict.  


Spotlight on Prince George's

Nathanael Hatchett, Drama Teacher and Coach 

Nathanael Hatchett

Photo Courtesy of Maryland State Education Association 

We are Prince George’s Proud of Stephen Decatur Middle School drama teacher and multi-sport coach Natanael Hatchett, who was spotlighted by the Maryland State Education Association! Nathaneal blends athletics and the arts, creates a safe, inspiring space where students build confidence, take creative risks, and grow together. Learn more here. 


23 Maryland Schools Receive Purple Star Designation for Support to Military Families 

Purple Star

We are proud to celebrate Prince George's County's own Stephen Decatur Middle School and Imagine Andrews Public Charter School for earning the Purple Star School designation from the Maryland State Department of Education. These schools exemplify our County's commitment to supporting military-connected students and creating welcoming, compassionate learning environments. Read more here. 


Prince George’s County Fifth Grader Wins Maryland Arbor Day Poster Contest  

Capital Heights Elementary

Photo courtesy of Maryland Department of Natural Resources 

Prince George’s County is proud to recognize Kaliyah Throrpe, a talented fifth grader from the Capitol Heights Elementary School, for winning first place in the 2025 Maryland Arbor Day Poster Contest! Her creative artwork earned not only statewide recognition, but also 15 new trees for her school. Congratulations to Kaliyah for showing Maryland just how "terrific" trees and our County’s students can be! Find out more here. 


Spring is Abuzz at the Hyattsville Branch Library 

Abuzz

Last week, the Hyattsville Branch Library brought a beekeeping expert in from the M-NCPPC Department of Parks and Recreation for an interactive program called “Meet the Honeybee.” They discussed the honeybee’s life cycle, social dynamics, and favorite food sources. This event drew in residents of all ages, all of whom were sent home with free wildflower seed packets to help feed the pollinators in their own green spaces! 


Aimee Olivo Appointment 

Aimee

We are Prince George’s Proud to announce the appointment of Aimee Olivo as the new representative for District 4 on the County Board of Education. Mrs. Olivo is a dedicated public servant and longtime resident of Cheverly that has a strong record of inclusive leadership. She has built meaningful relationships, especially within our County’s Latino community and remains committed to ensuring every family feels seen, heard, and valued.  

Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Olivo on this important role in shaping the future of education in Prince George’s County. 


Beautification Initiatives

Growing Green With Pride 

GGWP

The Department of Public Works & Transportation, Acting County Executive Jackson, and residents rolled up their sleeves and picked up litter at sites around the county for our annual Growing Green with Pride initiative on Saturday, April 26. Thank you to everyone who came to help keep our County clean and beautiful. Together, we are working to keep Prince George’s the Crown Jewel of Maryland! 


Arbor Day

Arbor Day

The Prince George’s County Beautification Committee (PGCBC), along with County officials and volunteers, joined the students and faculty members of Oxon Hill Elementary School on Friday, April 25, to plant 14 native trees in honor of Arbor Day. Department of the Environment Deputy Director Michelle Russell presented Sibigi Lipford-Transou, Principal of Oxon Hill Elementary, with an Arbor Day proclamation signed by Acting County Executive Tara Jackson.  

The County was recognized by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Forest Service with the Tree City USA® award and is the only County in the state to receive this award for 41 consecutive years. 


Proud to be Around Prince George’s

The Office of Veterans Affairs Military Veterans and Families Resource Center 

Dr. Dula

It’s a family affair at the Office of Veterans Affairs Military Veterans and Families Resource Center in Upper Marlboro! Among the dedicated team are Dr. James Dula, Veterans Affairs Liasion; Russell Rogers, a proud Army Veteran; his grandson Aaron Hart; and Elizabeth Williams WARM HEARTS Administrator.  Together, they represent a strong legacy of service and support for our veteran community. 


Returning Citizens Symposium 

RCAD

Acting County Executive Jackson delivered remarks at the Returning Citizens Symposium, themed “Reentry Reimagined: Innovation and Impact” on Saturday, April 19, at Martin’s Crosswinds. The symposium focuses on reducing recidivism and improving public safety by ensuring returning citizens have robust access to critical resources, comprehensive support, and meaningful opportunities. In Prince George’s County, we believe that second chances don’t just change individual lives, they strengthen families, uplift communities, and boost our economy 


Rio Grande Entrepreneurs Program 

Rio Grande

Acting County Executive Jackson celebrated the graduation of the inaugural Rio Grande Entrepreneurs Program on Friday, April 25, at Prince George’s Community College. This ceremony was a celebration of ambition, culture, and community. Our incredible graduates have represented the heart of our local economy and the future of entrepreneurship in our County 


Child Resource Connect 

Resource Center

Acting County Executive Jackson joined Child Resource Connect for their annual “Greatness Grows Here Conference” to support and celebrate the vital work of our early childhood education professionals on Saturday, April 26, at Charles Herbert Flowers High School. This conference offered educational opportunities for Early Childhood Education professionals to attend workshops and earn six continuing education units.  


Woodstream Family Life Center 

Woodstream

Acting County Executive Jackson attended the ribbon cutting of Woodstream Family Life Center (WFLC)  in Bowie on Sunday, April 27. This center will serve as a hub for Christian education, health, recreation, counseling, and community engagement. WFLC provides comprehensive support, resources, and activities for families and individuals, to help enhance quality of life. 


Annual Fallen Heroes Memorial Ceremony 

Fallen Heroes

Acting County Executive united with our public safety officials at the Annual Fallen Heroes Memorial Ceremony to pay tribute to the courageous men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty on Thursday, May 1. We are deeply grateful for their wavering service to our great County, State, and nation and will forever honor their enduring legacy. 


National Day of Prayer 

Day of Prayer

Acting County Executive Jackson celebrated National Day of Prayer and gathered with local faith leaders and residents on Thursday, May 1, at Fairwood Community Park. This annual observance brought together people of all religious backgrounds to pray for the well-being of Prince George’s County, our State, and our nation.