Bowie Insider Issue #230

Pumpkin Picking Fun, Don’t Fall Victim to Mortgage Fraud in Bowie, 2024 Open House and Fire Prevention Day, PGCC and Microsoft Join Forces, #BowieSpeaks, Bowie Events

Author

Bowie Insider
October 14, 2024

In this issue of the Bowie Insider…

💬 Quote of the Day
📰 Pumpkin Picking Fun: Get the Best One for Carving or Cooking!
📰 Don’t Fall Victim to Mortgage Fraud in Bowie: Know the Warning Signs
📰 2024 Open House and Fire Prevention Day: Bowie Volunteer Fire Department
📰 PGCC and Microsoft Join Forces: Congressman Ivey Highlights Cybersecurity Career Paths
📰 #BowieSpeaks - Community Conversation on Oct. 15
🗓️ Upcoming Events
🤣 Meme of the Day
📍 Having an Event? Submit it for free
📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Local Business Apply Here

Quote of the Day

“Rise up. Start Fresh. See the opportunity in each new day.”

— Unknown

Pumpkin Picking Fun: Get the Best One for Carving or Cooking!

Pumpkin picking is one of the most enjoyable fall traditions, whether you're gearing up to carve a spooky jack-o'-lantern or whip up a delicious pumpkin pie! To choose the perfect pumpkin, start by checking the stem. A sturdy, green stem means the pumpkin is fresh, while a brittle or dry stem suggests it may be past its prime.

For carving, look for a pumpkin with smooth, firm skin and a nice, even shape. It should feel solid and heavy for its size, and a flat bottom will help keep it stable while you carve. Avoid pumpkins with soft spots, as they can lead to quicker rotting. A deep orange color generally indicates maturity and a well-ripened pumpkin.

If you’re baking, opt for smaller "sugar" or "pie" pumpkins, which are sweeter and have a better texture for cooking. Tap the pumpkin gently—if it sounds hollow, it’s ripe and ready for picking.

Whether you're decorating your porch or making a pie, pumpkin picking is the perfect way to embrace the festive fall spirit!

Check out Queen Anne Farm’s Pumpkin Patch and festivities.

.

Don’t Fall Victim to Mortgage Fraud in Bowie: Know the Warning Signs

Mortgage fraud is a growing concern in Maryland, especially amid the ongoing foreclosure crisis. Scammers often prey on homeowners facing financial difficulties, offering deceptive “rescue” solutions that can leave you worse off. Protecting yourself from mortgage fraud is crucial. Here are five key tips:

1. Work with trusted sources: Only seek help from your mortgage lender or a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-approved housing counselor. Their assistance is free.

2. Avoid up-front fees: No legitimate organization will ask for payment before providing services like loan modification or mortgage counseling.

3. Never sign over your deed: Scammers may ask you to transfer the deed to your home in exchange for a promise to “save” it. This is a red flag for fraud.

4. Ignore unsolicited offers: Be cautious of anyone reaching out via email, phone, or door-to-door offering foreclosure help.

5. Make payments to your lender only: Always send your mortgage payments directly to your lender, not a third party.

If you suspect fraud, contact the Office of the Commissioner of Financial Regulation at (888) 784-0136 to report it. Stay vigilant to protect your home from scammers.

2024 Open House and Fire Prevention Day: Bowie Volunteer Fire Department

.

PGCC and Microsoft Join Forces: Congressman Ivey Highlights Cybersecurity Career Paths

Image Credit: Washington Informer

Congressman Glenn Ivey recently visited Prince George’s Community College (PGCC) to tour its Cyber Clinic, a cutting-edge initiative in partnership with Microsoft. The Cyber Clinic aims to equip students with the skills needed for careers in the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity. During his visit, Congressman Ivey praised the college's commitment to addressing the national shortage of cybersecurity professionals.

PGCC’s collaboration with Microsoft provides students hands-on experience with advanced tools and technologies used in the industry, preparing them for in-demand roles in both public and private sectors. Congressman Ivey highlighted the importance of such partnerships in building a stronger local workforce and providing students with pathways to lucrative, future-ready careers. This initiative underscores PGCC’s role as a key player in developing talent for the region’s tech ecosystem.

.

Who is your favorite local family meal preparation company?

.

We want to hear from you…

Tell us what you want to read more about in the Bowie Insider. From more about how the city runs, sports, local taxes, business spotlights, how to start a business in Bowie, schools, colleges, shopping and more.

Click here to send us an email and let us know, we’d love to hear from you.

 

Want to sponsor this section? 📧Email the Bowie Insider
Love getting Bowie News and Events? “Buy Me a Coffee” to Show Your Support

Love getting Bowie news and lots of events in and around Bowie, consider showing your support with Buy Me a Coffee.

Click the Link for more information

October 14

October 15

October 16

October 17

October 18

October 19

October 20

Schedule for Local Pro Sports Teams

👉️Having an event?Click Hereto add it to our calendar 🗓️👈️

👍️Like Our Facebook Page