Issue #012

Upcoming Local Events

The Month of January

• National Bath Safety Month

• Financial Wellness Month

• Get Organized Month

• National Hot Tea Month

• National Mentoring Month

• Self-Love Month

• Teen Driving Awareness Month

• January 8 to 30: Recycle live cut Christmas trees, placed at the curb by 6 a.m. on their regular yard trim collection day or drop off at Brown Station Road Public Container Pad and Recycling Center, located at 3601 Brown Station Road in Upper Marlboro Monday to Saturday, between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m.

• January 13: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Art Contest Program, 10:00-12:00, Bowie City Hall

• January 15: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday - Holiday 

• January 16: Single and Parenting Virtual Workshop, 7:00 - 8:30

• January 20: 8:00 - 2:00: Electronics Recycling Event, The Public Works Department, 16500 Annapolis Road.

• January 20: 12:00, Ballin' with the Badge, Benjamin Tasker Middle School, 4901 Collington Rd, Bowie, MD 20715

• January 21: 11:00 and 3:30 Outlet Dance Complex Presents: Dancin’ Through Winter, Winter Recital

• January 22: 7:00-8:30, Old Town Bowie Revitalization Community Meeting at the Huntington Community Center, 13022 8th Street

  Bowie, MD

• January 26: 7:00, On Kee Jazz Presents: Jazz in the Black Box, Bowie Center for the Performing Arts

• January 27: 1:00 - 3:30 - Candle Making Workshop at 6600 Laurel - Bowie Road Bowie, MD 20715

• January 27: 7:00pm and 9:30pm, Joe Clair Presents: Bangin’ in Bowie featuring featuring comedians Brooklyn Mike, Timmy Hall, and Cool Bubba Ice, Bowie Center for the Performing Arts

• January 31: 7:00pm - Free virtual Workforce Development Program Information Session ages 15 - 25

• Send us an email if you would like to share a local Bowie event inside of the Bowie Insider; include all of the details.

Angela Alsobrooks: Leading Prince George's County with Vision and Dedication

In the dynamic and diverse landscape of Prince George's County, Maryland, County Executive Angela Alsobrooks stands as a beacon of leadership and innovation. Elected in 2018, Alsobrooks not only made history as the first woman and the first Black woman to be elected County Executive in Maryland but has since been a driving force in the region's growth and development.

A Leader Committed to Community and Health

Alsobrooks' leadership has been particularly distinguished by her commitment to healthcare and community well-being. Her administration has made strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure, including the groundbreaking for a new health center and the opening of the county's first behavioral health facility. In her 2024 Legislative Session, Alsobrooks announced plans to further this commitment with significant funding for healthcare, highlighting her belief that "Access to high-quality health care is a right for every American".

Focusing on Education and Public Safety

Under Alsobrooks' stewardship, Prince George’s County's FY2024 budget reflects a strong focus on education and public safety. The budget earmarks $2.79 billion for the Board of Education and an increase of $161.9 million over the previous year for education. Additionally, public safety has been prioritized with a $911.4 million allocation, supporting police recruitment incentives and increasing staffing for various public safety departments.

Economic Development and Safe Neighborhoods

Alsobrooks' vision for economic development is encapsulated in her initiatives along the Blue Line Corridor, including a new film studio and a walkable downtown Largo. These efforts are complemented by a comprehensive approach to creating safe neighborhoods, with significant investments in the Prince George’s County Police and Fire/EMS Departments, and the Vision Zero initiative to improve road safety.

Innovative Approach to Environmental Challenges

Addressing environmental challenges, Alsobrooks' administration has allocated substantial funding for stormwater management and beautification programs. These efforts are aimed at combating climate change, mitigating flooding, and enhancing the county's aesthetic appeal through programs like countywide curbside composting and litter reduction.

A Trailblazer with National Aspirations

In 2023, Alsobrooks announced her candidacy for the U.S. Senate, aiming to bring her local expertise to the national stage. If elected, she would be the first Black senator from Maryland and one of the few women to represent the state in the Senate since Barbara Mikulski's retirement in 2017.

Conclusion: A Leader of Substance and Vision

Angela Alsobrooks' tenure as Prince George's County Executive is marked by her relentless pursuit of progress across various sectors, from healthcare and education to public safety and environmental sustainability. Her proactive approach and forward-thinking initiatives reflect her dedication to the county's residents and her vision for a thriving, inclusive community. As she steps onto the national stage, Alsobrooks carries with her a legacy of impactful leadership and a commitment to public service that resonates beyond the borders of Prince George's County.

Bowie, Maryland: A Hub of Economic Activity and Community Growth

Nestled in Prince George's County, Bowie, Maryland, has evolved from a quaint railroad stop into a bustling city, known for its economic vitality and community-centric living. Today, Bowie's economic landscape is defined by its largest employers, each contributing uniquely to the city's growth and character. Here's a look at the five pillars of Bowie's economy:

1. The Educational Pioneer: Bowie State University

As one of Maryland's oldest historically black universities, Bowie State University is not just an educational institution but a beacon of culture and history. With a commitment to providing high-quality education, particularly in the sciences, technology, and education, Bowie State is a major employer in the area, drawing in educators, researchers, and support staff from across the region.

2. Health Care at the Forefront: Anne Arundel Medical Center

A cornerstone of Bowie's health sector, Anne Arundel Medical Center stands out for its commitment to innovative health care and community wellness. The center is a significant employer in the city, providing a range of jobs from medical professionals to administrative and support roles. It's not just a workplace; it's a hub for health and healing in the community.

3. Retail Revival: Bowie Town Center

The Bowie Town Center, a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options, is more than just a shopping destination. It’s an economic engine driving employment in retail management, customer service, and operations.

4. Government and Civic Engagement: City of Bowie

As the administrative heart of the city, the City of Bowie government is a significant employer. From public service roles to administrative positions, the city government is integral to maintaining Bowie’s thriving community, ensuring that it remains a great place to live, work, and play.

5. The World of Logistics: UPS

United Parcel Service (UPS), known globally for its logistics and package delivery services, plays a vital role in Bowie’s economy. As a major employer, UPS offers a variety of jobs from package handling to complex logistical planning roles, demonstrating Bowie's strategic importance as a logistics and transportation hub.

Conclusion: A Mosaic of Opportunities

The economic tapestry of Bowie is rich and diverse, reflecting the city's growth from a rail town to a dynamic suburban city. Each of these employers contributes not just to the economy but to the very fabric of Bowie, offering opportunities, services, and stability to its residents. As Bowie continues to evolve, these employers will play a crucial role in shaping its future, making it an ever more attractive place to live and work.

Local Restaurant Spotlight - Ruby's Southern Comfort Kitchen  

Ruby's Southern Comfort Kitchen in Bowie, Maryland, is emerging as a culinary highlight in the region, renowned for its authentic Southern hospitality and delectable soul food. Located at 4410 Mitchellville Road, this cozy restaurant welcomes guests with an atmosphere that embodies the warmth of the South. Its menu is a testament to Southern cuisine, featuring beloved dishes like blackened salmon, sweet potato pie, and a standout mac & cheese. Notably, the sweet potato waffles and chicken offer a unique twist on traditional flavors, perfectly balancing sweet and savory elements.

The dining experience at Ruby's is comprehensive, ensuring high-quality meals whether for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a leisurely weekend brunch. Additionally, the restaurant caters to take-out and delivery preferences, making it a versatile choice for both dine-in and at-home dining experiences. It's also a popular option for catering events, known for leaving a lasting impression on guests.

Operating hours are from Tuesday to Saturday, 11 AM to 8 PM, and Sunday from 11 AM to 6 PM, with Mondays being closed. Ruby's Southern Comfort Kitchen stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true taste of Southern cuisine in Bowie, Maryland.

Connect with Ruby's Southern Comfort Kitchen

👉 Facebook 👉 Instagram 

“The Best of…” is coming to the Bowie Insider

Wonder no more! We will be introducing the “Best of…” in Bowie and the Regional Area as a weekly series. Stay tune as we ask for you to nominate businesses in the following categories and more. Each winner will be interviewed and featured in an issue of the Bowie Insider.

• The Best Restaurant

• The Best Barbershop and Salon

• The Best Coffee Shop

• The Best Dentist

• The Best Childcare/Daycare Center

• The Best Plumber…

How did we do in this issue of Bowie Insider?