Small Business Week, Pride Walk, Start Your Career with PGCC, and More!

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Monday, May 19, 2025

Together, We Build What's Next!

Dear Prince Georgians,

In recent weeks, we’ve received news that may feel like the end of an era for our County. Six Flags America is closing its doors, and the Washington Commanders are exploring a move back to Washington, D.C.—though that wouldn’t happen for several years. These announcements mark big changes, but they also mark the beginning of something new.

We’re already thinking about what comes next. In Prince George’s County, we don’t just watch change happen—we lead it. That’s why I’m confident that these sites will become spaces of opportunity, innovation, and community benefit. From Liberty Sports Park in South Lake to the dynamic Blue Line Corridor projects underway, we have shown time and again that our County can reimagine, reinvent, and rebuild.

That same spirit was on full display earlier this month as I kicked off National Small Business Month by visiting some of our incredible local businesses. From family-run restaurants to cutting-edge service providers, I met entrepreneurs who are investing in our communities and creating the future right here at home. Their stories are a powerful reminder that our County’s greatest strength is our people—visionary, determined, and committed to progress.

While some things come to a close, we’re writing the next chapter—together. We will continue to grow and develop Prince George’s County with purpose, creativity, and resilience. I’m proud to serve a community that embraces change as a chance to rise.

Here’s to building what’s next.

Yours in service,

Tara H. Jackson
Acting Prince George’s County Executive


County News For You

PGSCD’s Spring Seedling Giveaway Tour (2025)

Spring Seedling

The Prince George’s Soil Conservation District is giving away free seedlings as part of its Spring Seedling Giveaway Tour! Pick up heirloom Black Cherry and Plum Tomato seedlings, fragrant Sweet Basil, or the ever-popular Native Northeast Wildflower Seed Mix—grown locally by M-NCPPC’s Randall Farm with seeds from the Ujamaa Cooperative Farming Alliance. Learn more here.


Enjoy Free Plant Therapy with the TECU Garden Club at the Library!

Plant Therapy

On Saturday, May 31, join the TECU Garden Club at the Laurel Branch Library for a healing experience. Led by a certified Emotional Intelligence coach, these hands-on sessions will show how plants can support stress relief and emotional wellness. With additional insights into diabetic care, this workshop is perfect for anyone looking to nurture both mind and body. Bring your own pots, soil, or plants in need of a little TLC! Learn more here.


Kickstart Your Next Career, Vocational or Educational Journey with PGCC and the Library

Start your new career path

On May 27 at 5 PM, the Spauldings Branch Library will host an exciting information session in partnership with Prince George’s Community College (PGCC). Explore degree programs, trades, apprenticeships, and the Career Online High School initiative—an online path to earn your diploma and a career certification in high-demand fields. Learn more about opportunities available through the Library System.


Flip the Script on Aging Information Fair

Flip the Script on Aging Information Fair

More than 450 older adults gathered at the Department of Family Services for the “Flip the Script on Aging” Information Fair. This annual event connects seniors with vital resources and services to help them thrive. Learn more here.


Father's Day Pledge

Father's Day Pledge

Join the Department of Family Services in taking a powerful stand against domestic violence and human trafficking. The Father’s Day Pledge, held on June 11, honors the role of fathers while highlighting their influence in building safer communities. Register here.


Prince George’s County Police Department 3rd Annual Pride Walk

Pride Walk

Celebrate Pride Month with the Prince George’s County Police Department on Saturday, June 7 at National Harbor. The walk kicks off at 11:30 AM and concludes with a celebration at the Great Awakening, featuring music and resources from local LGBTQIA+ organizations. Pride Month began as a movement for justice—and today, we continue that legacy with pride. Follow @PGPDNews for updates.


Prince George’s County Police Department 1st Annual Car Show

Car Show

On May 31, rev up your weekend with the Police Department’s first Coffee, Cars & Cops Car Show in Landover! From classic cars to specialty units, this family-friendly event includes food trucks, live music, and interactive fun. Want to show your ride? Spots are limited! Contact Sgt. Rodney Gause at Rgause@co.pg.md.us for details.


DPIE Urges Property Owners to Prepare for Potential Emergencies During Building Safety Month

DPIE Urges Property Owners to Prepare for Potential Emergencies During Building Safety Month

The Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement (DPIE) is encouraging all property owners to prepare for Building Safety Month 2025 by taking steps to ensure their homes and businesses are safe and resilient. This year, they're placing a special focus on emergency preparedness—urging residents to assess their properties, make necessary repairs, and understand how strong building practices can help protect against fires, floods, storms, and other potential disasters. Whether you're planning a renovation or just performing routine maintenance, now is the time to make sure your property is built to last. DPIE is here to help you stay safe, informed, and ready for whatever comes next. Learn more here.


Watercraft Parking Ban

Watercraft

Reminder: Starting May 23, watercraft may no longer be parked on public streets, roads, or rights-of-way in Prince George’s County. Violations may result in fines or impoundment. Report concerns at PGC311.com, on the PGC311 app, or dial 3-1-1.


Spotlight on Prince George's

Neighborhood Planning Academy Spring 2025 Cohort Graduates!

Graduates

Photo Courtesy of Maryland State Education Association 

Congratulations to the 62 graduates of the Spring 2025 Neighborhood Planning Academy! With support from Planning Board Chair Peter Shapiro and Deputy CAO Angie Rodgers, participants completed a seven-week journey to better understand County planning processes and tools for civic engagement. Watch the graduation and sign up here for future sessions.


Laurel High School Students Win Prince George’s County 2025 Envirothon Competition

Graduates

Photo courtesy of Prince George's Soil Conservation District

Laurel High School took first place in this year’s Prince George’s County Envirothon! Hosted by the Soil Conservation District and the Schmidt Outdoor Education Center, 17 teams competed in aquatics, forestry, soils, wildlife, and this year’s theme: "Roots and Resiliency." Congratulations to all the student scientists! Learn more here.


Building Stronger Communities: OCR Engages with Birmingham Estates Residents

ocr

The Office of Community Relations visited residents of Birmingham Estates to discuss local needs, observe infrastructure, and build deeper partnerships. These visits are essential to our County’s responsive governance—ensuring every voice is heard and every neighborhood thrives. Follow the Office of Community Relations on Instagram here.


Celebrating National Small Business Month

To kick off National Small Business Month, Acting County Executive Tara Jackson visited local businesses across Prince George’s County to celebrate their impact and hear directly from owners. Here's a look at the businesses the County Executive highlighted. Read the press release here.

La Casita Pupuseria & Comedor

La Casita

Acting County Executive Jackson celebrated this family-owned restaurant serving up authentic Salvadoran cuisine. A staple of flavor and culture in our community!


Civility Management Solutions

Civility

Congratulations to founder Laurie Sayles, whose woman- and veteran-owned business continues to lead by example in optimizing workplace culture and performance.


Special Care Dentistry

Special Care Denistry

Dr. Nekia Staley-Neither is changing lives—offering compassionate dental care and organizing free services through her nonprofit, Special Care for Special Needs Dentistry. Her annual health fair uplifts hundreds.


Arel Architects

Arel

With over 40 years of experience, Ron Lipford’s firm has helped shape Prince George’s County through projects like the Hampton Park Redevelopment and multiple new PGCPS middle schools. A visionary in every sense!


Spice Black

Dentist

A modern grain bowl eatery rooted in Black heritage foods, Spice Black embodies wellness and culture. In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, they gifted meals to 12 educators—just one example of their community-first mission.


Aussie Pet Mobile

Aussie Pet Mobile

Owned by the Hawkins family, this mobile pet grooming service brings expert care straight to your door. It’s part of their growing business empire, which includes a Rita’s franchise in Oxon Hill.


Proud to be Around Prince George's

Woodyard Road Improvement Announcement

Woodyard

On May 13, we celebrated a $15 million public-private partnership to improve the busy MD 223 and Woodyard Road intersection. Thanks to Senator Michael Jackson, Councilmember Sydney Harrison, and DPW&T for moving this project forward!