From the Office of Council Member Tom Dernoga May 2024

Older Americans Month

Older Americans Month is a yearly occasion dedicated to honoring and appreciating the valuable contributions made by senior residents to our society and nation. Held in May annually, it serves as a platform for citizens to delve into the rich tapestry of life experiences of individuals aged 65 and above. Celebrating Older Americans Month not only pays tribute to their achievements but also expresses gratitude for the significant impact they continue to have.

            Observing Older Americans Month offers a beautiful opportunity to express gratitude for the seniors in your community. Here are several suggestions on how individuals can pay homage and acknowledge older adults during this significant month:

Engage with seniors in the community and lend an ear to their stories; Offer your time as a volunteer at local facilities such as the Laurel-Beltsville Senior Center or Riderwood Village, utilize technology to connect with seniors, such as through video calls; Contribute to organizations that cater to the needs of our older adults.

Join Us at Our Free Reusable Grocery Bag Giveaway

We are happy to announce that we will host a Free Reusable Grocery Bag Giveaway at various grocery stores throughout District One. Stop by our table before your grocery run to meet with team members, obtain helpful contact information, and learn about the Better Bag Bill. Every visitor will receive a complimentary reusable bag to promote sustainable living. Our next event will be on May 18th at Aldi in Beltsville from 9-11AM. https://bit.ly/D1GroceryBagGiveaway

All Hands On Deck!

The State of Maryland has 3,190 miles of coastline, which provides excellent recreational boating opportunities for local residents. You may have noticed the increase in boats throughout Beltsville. Please be sure to make sure your boat complies with County codes and regulations.      

Boats must be tagged and legally parked. (A) The boat and boat trailer shall be located at least eight (8) feet from a street line; (B) The boat and boat trailer shall be parked on a dust-free surface area such as concrete, asphalt, or gravel; (C) The boat and boat trailer shall be properly licensed and operable; (D) The boat and boat trailer shall not be in excess of twenty (20) feet unless located on a lot at least two (2) acres in size; and (E) The boat and boat trailer shall be covered to prevent the accumulation of water.

These and other violations of the County Code may result in a fine or other consequences. You may not store untagged vehicles, old vehicle parts, junk cars or motorcycles, old appliances, building materials, furniture, garbage, or unlicensed boats on residential property.

See 2010 legislation on boats outlining regulations here https://bit.ly/4cYjfnk 

Summer Camp Registration is Underway

Summer is approaching, so our kids will soon be out of school. Registration for Prince George’s begins on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, and for non-residents on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. The registration process is straightforward and fast. You can sign up your child for as many day camp sessions as possible. Rest assured, your child will have a safe and memorable summer experience. Visit https://www.pgparks.com/activities-events/summer-programs to explore the programs and get additional information.

Public Library Free Summer Reading Program

Are you looking to stay engaged with reading during the summer months? Join the Nationals and the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System for a unique program that combines baseball and reading. Open to all ages, this program runs from May 15th to August 17th, offering a fun way to keep your child or yourself connected with reading while enjoying the excitement of baseball. Please visit https://www.pgcmls.info/summer for more information.

Coffee with the COPS

We encourage residents to attend the Coffee with the COPS to voice concerns, ask questions, and get to know your COPS officer. COPS stands for Community Oriented Policing Services. This once-a-month event circulates in the district, where residents can enjoy a cup of coffee and pastry while they meet with our local police on any issues of their choice. Please join the Beltsville Division VI police on May 8th from 10-11 AM at the Laurel-Beltsville Senior Center, 7120 Contee Road, Laurel for their monthly Coffee with the COPS. https://bit.ly/3Q7vBQ9

Join our District 1 eNewsletter here: https://bit.ly/D1eNewsletterOptIn. We will email you about twice a month to provide you updates with local happenings and, on occasion, alert you to important county news.

Join our District 1 Senior Living eNewsletter: Don’t miss out on resources, local activities, and events for seniors. Sign up for our monthly senior email newsletter: https://bit.ly/D1SeniorNewsletterOptIn

Contact Us 

Please keep in touch. Email us at councildistrict1@co.pg.md.us or call 301-952-3887. Se habla español. On parle français. Follow us on Facebook, X, Threads, and Instagram: @TomDernogaD1