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Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM) is observed in March to raise awareness and celebrate people with developmental disabilities. 

Facts about DDAM

• President Ronald Reagan established DDAM in 1987. 
• The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) leads DDAM. 
• The 2024 theme is "A World of Opportunities". 
• The official color of DDAM is orange, which symbolizes energy and positivity. 
• DDAM highlights the contributions of people with disabilities to communities. 
• DDAM also raises awareness of the barriers that people with disabilities face. 

How you can participate? 

• Wear orange throughout the month.
• Share materials on social media using the hashtags #DDawareness2024, #DDAM2024, #AWorldofOpportunities, or #NewOpportunities.
• Support organizations that advocate for people with developmental disabilities.

What are developmental disabilities?

Developmental disabilities are impairments in physical, learning, language, or behavior areas.

Examples include: 

• Autism spectrum disorders
• Cerebral palsy
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
• Learning or intellectual disabilities
• Hearing loss
• Vision impairment

Employ Prince George’s honors and celebrates our incredible women leaders from managers to the C-suite! We are thrilled to see these inspiring women featured in the People on The Move section of the Washington Business Journal.

A special thank you to EPG leadership for recognizing the hard work and dedication of these talented women who are driving impact and change. To all of the amazing women at EPG, your commitment to workforce development and economic growth is truly commendable.

Let's applaud these dedicated professionals who are passionate about connecting individuals to life-changing career opportunities and bridging the gap between job seekers and employers. Their impactful work is instrumental in driving the economy in Prince George's County and the DC Metropolitan Region.

To read more about their feature in the Washington Business Journal's People on The Move, visit: https://www.bizjournals.com/washington/potm

City of Greenbelt Celebrates Women's History Month

Women's History Month Annual Awards Breakfast

The Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce invites you to a special event honoring three extraordinary women for their service, leadership, and contributions to our community. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the PGCOC Women in Business Committee’s commitment to recognizing remarkable women across various industries.

Date: March 19, 2025

Location: The Hotel at the University of Maryland

Time: 8:30am-10:30am

Be part of this inspiring celebration and witness the impact of trailblazing women who continue to shape our community. Secure your seat today and join us for an unforgettable recognition, networking, and empowerment night.

Purchase your tickets now.

We look forward to celebrating with you!

Sponsorship opportunities are available.

Email your interest and request to: sponsorship@pgcoc.org

Make Fitness Fun For The Whole Family

Put Action In Your Lifestyle

Regular physical activity is just as important to a healthy lifestyle as smart eating. Apply the same principles of variety, balance, and moderation to both your food choices and your physical activities.

·   Variety: Enjoy many different activities to move different muscles, such as power walking for your heart and leg muscles, gardening for arm muscles, and sit-ups for abdominal muscles.

·   Balance: Because different activities have different benefits, balance your physical activity pattern. For overall fitness, choose activities that build cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, bone strength, balance, and flexibility.

·   Moderation: Move enough to keep fit without overdoing it. At least 30 minutes (60 minutes for children and teens) of moderate physical activity most, and preferably all, days of the week will do.

Here are 10 ways parents and caregivers can encourage active play:

1. Balance sedentary play (such as reading together) with an activity that requires movement such as tag, jumping rope or hopscotch.

2. If children attend a childcare center, choose one that makes safe, active play a priority.

3. Set aside time each day for active play together, perhaps tossing a ball, having a dance party or taking a walk after a family meal.

4. Designate an inside and an outside area that's safe, where your child can freely jump, roll and tumble.

5. When possible, join a playgroup.

6. Encourage children to try a new physical activity.

7. Give children toys that encourage physical activity such as balls, kites, hula hoops, Frisbees, and jump ropes.

8. Limit TV time and keep the TV out of your child's bedroom.

9. Plant a garden. Kids love to water plants, and they'll get excited weeks later when they see their flowers bloom or vegetables grow.

10. Instead of catching a movie or watching TV, pick an activity that requires moving together like taking a walk.

Don't forget to fuel your activity!

Once you get your family moving, remember to fuel up for activities or sports. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after activities. Children need to drink at least six 8-ounce cups of water per day. Add another eight fluid ounces for every half hour of strenuous activity. For longer activities or when children don't drink enough water, diluted 100% fruit juice or sports drinks can increase their fluid intake.



For a snack before or after physical activities, serve crackers and cheese, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, trail mix, containers of cut-up fruit, or sliced vegetables with a low-fat dip.

This Is Your Reminder

Heart Health Tips For Men

Good nutrition and lifestyle play big roles in keeping your heart healthy.



You can decrease your risk of heart disease by making smart food choices.

Read on to learn more about ways to protect your heart.

Fruits and Vegetables Matter:

Focus on eating more plant-based foods, such as vegetables and legumes, and fewer meats high in saturated fat. Not only are fruits and vegetables low in calories and a source of dietary fiber and antioxidants, they also can help keep blood pressure in check. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke. What makes fruits and veggies so good? They provide a variety of nutrients, like potassium, a mineral that has been shown to lower blood pressure in clinical studies.

The recommended amount of potassium for adult men is 3,400 milligrams per day. Choose foods first as a source of potassium and always check with your health care provider before taking any supplements. Include at least 2 cups of fruit and 2½ cups of vegetables daily to help with your potassium intake. Great picks to help you reach this goal include tomatoes, spinach, potatoes, bananas, squash and beans.

Consider the Type of Fat: 

The amount and type of fat you eat makes a difference. Research has found that saturated fat may have negative effects on heart health. The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting the amount of saturated fat you consume. Foods such as bacon, red meat, butter, and ice cream contain saturated fat.

Replacing sources of saturated fats with unsaturated fats has been shown to be beneficial for overall cardiovascular health. Olive oil, canola oil, avocados, walnuts, and almonds contain unsaturated fat.

Omega-3 fatty-acids, also a type of unsaturated fat, have been found to be helpful in preventing sudden death from heart attacks. Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna and herring, contain two types of omega-3 fatty acids: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosatetraenoic acid (EPA).

Another type of omega-3 fat, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) may provide cardiac benefits, too. Flaxseeds and walnuts contain ALA. Include 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed or 1 ounce (about a small handful) of walnuts on a regular basis to increase your ALA intake.

Physical Activity Does the Heart Good:

Aim for physical activity most days of the week, with a goal of at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity, aerobic activity throughout the week. Simple activities make a difference. This includes walking, jogging, biking, and dancing. Participate in strength training, such as lifting weights, working with resistance bands, and some types of yoga, at least two times per week. Remember to incorporate balance and flexibility exercises, too.

Prioritize Stress Management:

Even if you eat right and exercise regularly, poorly managed stress can wreak havoc on your health. Getting enough sleep, practicing relaxation techniques and nurturing relationships are healthy habits that can help protect you from the harmful effects of stress.

The Governor’s Black History Month reception was a lovely event and was a great time to chat with the Governor, First Lady Moore, and our colleagues in Annapolis. I am pictured with Governor Moore, First Lady Dawn Moore and my guest, D4 resident Andrea Williamson.  

It was an honor for me to provide closing remarks for the Prince George’s County Council and Legislative Branch’s Black History Month Program. My colleague and fellow family member of a Black History Hero, Chair Jolene Ivey gave opening remarks.

I was honored to attend 2025 Alpha Kappa Alpha Day at the Capitol where over 400 members attended to advocate on behalf of the sorority’s priorities. I am pictured with First Lady Dawn Moore, Delegate Pam Queen, and my colleague, Council Member Wanika Fisher.

Please review the In Layman’s Terms section and click HERE to view all legislation and click HERE to view the calendar with the dates and times for committee meetings and public hearings.

I am proud to continue to serve as the Chair of the Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee, the Vice Chair of the Education and Workforce Development Committee and a member of the Health and Human Services and Public Safety Committee. I am also serving on the Council of Governments Board of Directors and Council liaison to the Prince George’s Municipal Association.

You can click this link to view all 2025 County Council Committee Assignments. 

Dear Non-Profit Organizations,

Thank you for ALL of the tremendous work you do in service to the residents of District 4 and Prince George’s County. I am encouraging you to apply NOW for a District 4 Special Appropriations Grant for FY 2025. 

Please click here, FY25 Prince Georges County Council Grant Application to apply.

Applications will be considered on a first come, first served basis throughout the fiscal year. Be sure to include Council Member Watson's name under "(C)" Grant Application to Council Member.

Introducing Cris, the seasoned professional groomer and proud owner of 4 Paws! With a background as a corporate dog groomer in the US and a diverse journey that includes studies in Criminal Justice, compliance, enterprise fraud, and Brazilian diplomatic and consular affairs, Cris brings a wealth of expertise to our grooming business.

Continuously engaged in grooming even while exploring other fields, Cris has had the privilege of grooming pets spanning over three generations of families. Amid the challenges of the pandemic, Cris made the decision to fully immerse herself back into the grooming industry for good.

Through years of navigating the complex realms of compliance and enterprise fraud, Cris has refined meticulous attention to detail and a steadfast dedication to maintaining standards of excellence to prioritize the comfort and well-being of pets. This extensive experience has equipped Cris with a distinctive skill set that ensures precise care and adherence to protocols in every grooming session ensuring an enjoyable experience.

At 4 Paws Only, Cris and the team are dedicated to providing stress-free and comfortable grooming experiences, striving for cage-free grooming whenever possible. Trust Cris to deliver exceptional grooming services, where passion, expertise, and a commitment to excellence converge for the benefit of your furry companions.

6766 Race Track Road, Bowie, MD 20715

info@4pawsonlygroomed.com

240-219-9022

Resources For Federal Workers

There are 33 American Job Centers (AJCs) and our specialized Professional Outplacement Assistance Center (POAC). Please see the AJC and POAC websites for hours and locations. For answers to common questions from workers transitioning from federal employment to new opportunities, see this resource guide and FAQ page.



The Maryland Department of Labor is offering a free virtual workshop for former federal employees and contractors who are seeking support to explore new job opportunities. This workshop is every Wednesday, 9 a.m. - noon. To sign up, email FedWorker.Transition@maryland.gov.



The State of Maryland is hiring: If you are interested in continuing your public service in a new way, please visit this webpage to see a list of open positions.

Please see the Maryland Resource Page for resources supplied by the State. 

Employment and Job Training 

• Employ Prince George’s – Career counseling, resume workshops, job placement assistance, and workforce development programs. 
• Phone: (301) 618-8445
• Email: info@employpg.org 
• Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation – Employment resources, job fairs, and business networking opportunities. 
• Maryland Workforce Exchange – Statewide job search platform and career training services. 

Financial and Housing Assistance 

• Prince George’s County Housing Assistance – Rental support, foreclosure prevention, and emergency housing assistance. 
• FSC First – Business financing and economic development resources for individuals considering entrepreneurship. 
• Maryland Department of Human Services – Financial aid, food assistance (SNAP), and emergency cash assistance. 

Mental Health and Social Services 

• Prince George’s County Health Department – Mental health counseling and crisis support. 
• 211 Maryland – Connects residents with local resources, including food pantries, shelters, and healthcare services. 

Small Business Development 

• Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation’s Innovation Station – Entrepreneurial support, business mentorship, and startup resources. 
• FSC First – Access to funding opportunities and loan programs for small businesses.

✅Unemployment Compensation For Federal Employees (UCFE) provides unemployment compensation for federal employees who have lost their employment at no fault of their own. Claims should be filed in the state where the Federal employee's last official duty station was located, with limited exceptions.

https://www.dol.gov/general/topic/unemployment-insurance (directory of state unemployment offices)

https://oui.doleta.gov/unemploy/docs/factsheet/UCFE_FactSheet.pdf (more information) 

✅Federal 2 Industry (F2I) Industry (F2I) is showcasing "Open to Work" posts from federal workers. Please help them if you can. https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/federal-2-industry-f2i/posts/?feedView=all 

✅Here's a guide to writing an Open to Work post on LinkedIn. https://thejobhopper.substack.com/p/when-and-how-to-use-open-to-work 

✅Federal News Network has advice on appeals, unemployment, health benefits, and life insurance for terminated probationary employees. https://federalnewsnetwork.com/hiring-retention/2025/02/there-is-help-for-probationary-employees-who-were-terminated/ 

✅Maryland has a resource directory for federal workers, including unemployment insurance benefits, career guidance, and reemployment support. https://lnkd.in/eYmA2gy3 



✅ Reddit's News, Information, & Discussion for Federal Employees (/r/fednews) has information on layoffs, firings, and litigation. https://www.reddit.com/r/fednews/ 

E-Z Pass Scam Alert!!!

Several residents have received the “E-Z Pass Final Reminder” phishing text messages seen below. This is a SCAM! Please do not respond and delete the text immediately. If you have questions about your E-Z pass tolls, please go to the state website at Maryland E-ZPass and Pay-By-Plate Home | DriveEzMD.com. DriveEZ Maryland will never contact you via text message regarding outstanding toll payments.

If you have any questions about phishing texts or emails you receive, please contact us directly at CouncilDistrict4@co.pg.md.us.

SYEP Application Launching Soon

Capital Accelerator

Take Charge of Your Health - Food Connects Us

Free Food - Fresh Produce Giveaway

Something for the SENIORS Health Expo

Financial Literacy Workshop

Leave No Veteran Behind Employment Connect Prince George's County

Join us for the Leave No Veteran Behind (LNVB) Prince George’s County Employment Connect on Tuesday, March 19, 2025, from 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM at Prince George’s Community College, Performing Arts Center in Largo, MD. 

This free, in-person hiring event is designed to connect Veterans, military spouses, transitioning service members, and civilian job seekers with employers across healthcare, technology, finance, civil service, and the private sector who are actively hiring. 

Meet Hiring Employers – Network with companies looking for mission-driven candidates

Explore Career Opportunities – Learn about open positions across multiple industries

Professional Networking – Build connections with employers, recruiters, and workforce development partners 

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Time: 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Location: Prince George’s Community College, Performing Arts Center

Address: 301 Largo Road, Largo, MD 20774 

Senior Tech Cafe

Ice Arena Summer Camps

The Ice Arena is offering great summer camps for kids ages 3 to 15, with sessions in July and August for all skill levels. Skaters will dive into a world of fun with exciting on-ice instruction, games, and music, plus off-ice activities like crafts and games to keep the energy flowing! Registration opens March 1—don't miss out on this great way to escape the summer heat!

Learn more at www.cityofbowie.org/icearena.

Check out this week's hottest job opportunities now available on Employ Prince George's website!

Whether you're interested in Hospitality, Information Technology, Manufacturing, Construction, Healthcare, or more, we've got a diverse range of positions waiting for you.

Click the link below to explore all the exciting job openings and discover your next career move today!

https://www.employpg.org/hot-jobs/

For more information visit the American Job Center Largo

1801 McCormick Drive, Suite 120, Largo, MD 20774

Phone: (301) 618 -8400

Show Some Love - Donate A Kuranda Bed

Due to our high volume of intakes, we are having a shortage of Kuranda beds, and we are asking our community to Show Some Love and donate a Kuranda bed. We are also looking for NEW bedding or towels and toys for their merriment (cat toys, Kongs, Nylabones, frisbees).

As part of enrichment programs, we are looking for shelter-approved toys that help keep animals entertained and occupied with mental stimulation while at the shelter. This can help their true personalities shine through despite being stressed.

Our kennel still needs donated items like new bedding, cleaning supplies, and foster items such as scales or kitten milk. Please see the kennel supply wish list here.

We are not currently accepting used bedding, pillows, stuffed animals, plush toys, or items with stuffing.

In addition, ASD is strongly encouraging donations of Kuranda beds of all sizes for our doggie friends. There are lots of benefits for pets sleeping on Kuranda Beds, including:

• Kuranda beds are the superior choice in shelters and rescues due to their durability and the added protection of a one-year Chew Proof Warranty.

• Shelters prefer Kuranda beds since they are easy to clean and sanitize, minimizing the spread of infectious diseases.

• The elevated sleep surface helps regulate body temperature in warmer and cooler months.

• The orthopedic design alleviates pressure points on joints.

• Quality sleep reduces stress, which keeps animals healthy and feeling good while they await their forever homes.

Check out: shelterbeds.org/donate/22654

We Are Over Capacity

Thank you to our community for assisting us in placing our shelter pets.

Despite the successes, the Prince George's County Animal Services and Adoption Facility is in CRITICAL need of finding loving, FURever homes for its dogs, especially its larger and senior dogs.

Without IMMEDIATE help, we face the heart-wrenching possibility of finding alternative solutions for healthy, adoptable dogs awaiting their best friend.

Our Animal Services Facility is OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, Tue – Fri; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sat; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (please arrive one hour prior to closing), and is ready to help you find and adopt.

For more information and to see pets ready to be adopted, visit www.princegeorgespets4us.com.

Fostering Saves Lives

The Pet Foster Program allows people and families who are unable to commit to a long-term adoption the opportunity to care for an animal on a short-term basis. This program helps save an animal’s life! The process of becoming a foster parent is easy! Complete, sign, and return the Foster Care application and agreement found online at pgcsprout.info/fosterpets. Once your application has been reviewed by ASD staff, you will be sent online orientation information. Please be prepared with animals you're interested in fostering within 72 hours of passing the orientation.

Email a completed application to our foster program at fosterPGCpets@co.pg.md.us

or contact adoption staff at 301-780-7200 today!

The mission of the Department of the Environment is a healthy, beautiful, and sustainable county through programs that provide clean water, flood control, recycling and waste management litter prevention, sustainable animal management and pet adoption in partnership with residents and other stakeholders.

I invite you to collaborate, engage, partner, and champion with them as they employ innovative and sustainable approaches to their environmental challenges.

Some of their core services include:

• Providing clean water services;
• Flooding prevention for buildings and structures;
• Collecting, processing and diverting waste from the county-operated landfill, commercial facilities and households;
• Providing sustainability services to reduce greenhouse gas and emission; and
• Facilitating pet adoptions, managing an animal holding facility, issuing pet licenses, investigating cruelty complaints and conducting humane outreach and education events.

Please click HERE to learn more about them on their site as it is intended to assist you with learning more about their organization and its programs and services.

Pick It UP! Campaign

Do You Need A Reusable Bag?

By using a reusable shopping bag, you can decrease the resources used on plastic bag production and disposal and protect the environment from plastic pollution.

At the same time, you can save money, look stylish, and enjoy a better quality of life.

If you should need a complimentary District 4 reusable bag, please contact my office.

Phone: (301) 952-3094

Email: councildistrict4@co.pg.md.us

Get Help Filling Out Financial Aid Forms

The Office of College Readiness will host two FAFSA/MSFAA support sessions to assist families with completing financial aid forms.

February 22, 2025

Fairmont Heights High School

6501 Columbia Park Road

Landover, Maryland 20785

March 7, 2025

Parkdale High School

6001 Good Luck Road

Riverdale, Maryland 20737

Both events will be held from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. 

Please bring your 2021-2022 tax documents for reference.

For more information, email alonzo.bailey@pgcps.org or olivia.pearson@pgcps.org.

Ingrid S. Watson

District 4 Council Member - Prince George's County