Issue #036

When you find an event or activity in our list and attend, let us know how how if you loved it, liked it or it was so-so.

February 8

• Senior Computer Club, Held in Computer Lab, Prince George’s County Memorial Library - South Bowie Branch, 15301 Hall Rd, Bowie, MD 20721. 3:00pm - 4:00pm

• Bowie State University ESports Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, BSU Campus James E. Proctor Building, RM 118 14000 Jericho Park Rd Bowie, MD, 20715. 11:00am - 12:00pm

  Ready 2 Read Storytime: Ages 0-2, 15210 Annapolis Rd, Bowie, MD 20715. 10:15am - 10:45am

• Deanna Bogart with Eric Scott, Dan Leonard, and Deren Blessman, Old Bowie Town Grille, 8604 Chestnut Avenue Bowie, MD 7pm-10pm

February 9

• 8 Ball After Dark: Let's Connect, Center Pocket Cafe & Billiards, Tesla Drive, Bowie, MD. 8:00am - 02:00pm

• 2024 Guest Registration-Night to Shine Prom Cresthill Church

  6510 Laurel Bowie Rd., Bowie MD 20716. 6:00pm - 9:00pm

• Craft and Create: Sip and Sketch, Prince George’s Memorial Library-Bowie 15210 Annapolis Rd, Bowie, MD. 12:30pm - 2:00pm

• Urinetown the Musical, The Bowie Playhouse, 16500 White Marsh Park Dr, Bowie, MD 20715. February 9 - March 2, various show times

February 10

• Cupid’s Dish Garden Workshop, Patuxent Nursery 2410 Crain Highway Bowie, MD 20716. 11:00am - 12:00pm

• Hearts & Frosting: Mommy & Me Valentines Day Cake Decorating Class, Bowie Town Center, Emerald Way, Bowie, MD

  15606 Emerald Way Bowie, MD 20716. 11:30am - 1:00pm

• "EmpowerHer" a Path to Homeownership & Financial Management, 1525 Pointer Ridge Place Bowie, MD 20716. 11:00am - 1:00pm

• Electronics Recycling Event, Public Works Department 16500 Annapolis Road, Bowie, MD 20716, 8:00am - 2:00pm

• Valentine's Day Dinner and Live Music Event, 6800 Laurel - Bowie Road Bowie, MD 20715. 4:00pm - 8:00pm

• Dance Dimensions Presents: "Our Rhythm & Our Blues" (Cast A), Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, 15200 Annapolis Rd, Bowie, MD 20715

• Black Girl Meetup: Talking a Latte About Love, Barnes & Noble

  15455 Emerald Way Bowie, MD 20716, 10:30am - 12:30pm

February 11

• Civil Rights Activist, Willie Pearl McKay King, to speak at Village Baptist Church. Secretary to Martin Luther King Jr. she typed notes to send out letters from A Birmingham Jail. The event will be held at: 1950 Mitchellville Rd. Bowie Md. 20716 at 11:00am. 

February 16

• Platinum for Laughs and SouthernGal Productions Comedy Show featuring Felicia “FeFe” Frazier, Wendy “Quiet Storm” Lee, Christina “Ella the Spella” Wilson, and Theresa “TERECKA” Melton. owie Center for the Performing Arts, 15200 Annapolis Rd Bowie, MD 20715. 7:00pm and 9:00pm

February 17

• Bowie ISI Valentine’s Figure Skating Competition, Bowie Ice Arena, 3330 Northview Dr, Bowie, MD 20716. 1:00pm

February 18

• Sixx Cool Moms of PG County Sweet Treats for Valentine's Day, 15480 Annapolis Rd Suite 204, Bowie, MD.

• Straight 2 The Heart - Zumbathon Fundraiser, Fitness 4 Less Gym 6824 Laurel Bowie Road Bowie, MD 20715 2:30pm - 4:30pm

February 19

• Party Planning Networking Day Party, M Lounge Events, 15619 Emerald Way, Bowie, MD 20716. 12:00pm - 3:00pm

February 20

• Glenn Dale Citizens' Association February Meeting, Virtual Event,

  Register by sending an email to [email protected]. 7:30pm

• AARP Smart Driver Course™, Bowie Senior Center, 14900 Health Center Dr Bowie, MD 20716

February 23

• Black History Wellness & Fashion Show, Bowie State University, Student Center, 14000 Jericho Park Road, Bowie, MD 20715. 6:00pm - 9:00pm

• Men of Distinction Presents: The 2nd Annual Black History Showcase, Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, 15200 Annapolis Rd Bowie, MD 20715. 6:00pm

February 24

• Joe Clair Presents: Bangin’ In Bowie featuring Talent and John Hinton, Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, 15200 Annapolis Rd Bowie, MD 20715. 7:00pm and 9:00pm

• A Taste of HAE, by the Hope and Encouragement Foundation. The Royal Ballroom, Old Jericho Park Rd, Bowie, MD, 20720. 6:30pm - 11pm

• Fall In Love with Candle Making Workshop, 6600 Laurel - Bowie Road Bowie, MD 20715. 1:00pm - 3:30pm

• City of Bowie National Anthem and Voice of Bowie Auditions, open to individuals and groups.

February 27

• Community Matters with Bowie Police Chief Dwayne A. Preston, Huntington Community Center 13022 8th St, Bowie, MD 20715. 7:00pm - 9:00pm

   

  🕖 7:00 to 9 PMOpen Mic: Fresh Voices Series: Presented by Dialect Poets of Prince George’s County (Teens 13 - 18). 15210 Annapolis Rd, Bowie, MD 20715. 4:00pm - 5:30pm

Click Here to submit your upcoming event.

🛑 Traffic Alert: Overnight Maintenance Scheduled for Woodrow Wilson Bridge This Thursday February 8 - 9

Scheduled maintenance on the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, I-95/I-495, will take place from 11 p. on February 8 until 5 am on February 9, weather permitting.

Maintenance on the Woodrow Wilson Bridge will involve short, periodic drawbridge openings, leading to temporary halts on the Capital Beltway in both directions. These stops are expected to last 15 to 20 minutes, are essential for the bridge’s safe operation. Allow extra driving time when traveling through this area.

Why Recycling Matters: The Environmental and Social Imperatives

In a world grappling with environmental challenges, the importance of recycling cannot be overstated. Recycling isn't just a trendy buzzword; it's a crucial practice that holds the key to mitigating climate change, preserving natural resources, and fostering a sustainable future for generations to come. Here's why everyone should make recycling a priority, along with the myriad benefits it brings.

Environmental Conservation

One of the most compelling reasons to recycle is its profound impact on environmental conservation. By recycling materials such as paper, plastic, glass, and metal, we significantly reduce the need for virgin resources, thereby conserving precious natural habitats and ecosystems. For example, recycling paper helps preserve forests, which serve as vital carbon sinks and habitats for countless species. Similarly, recycling metals like aluminum and steel reduces the environmental degradation caused by mining operations and lowers greenhouse gas emissions associated with raw material extraction.

Waste Reduction and Pollution Prevention

Recycling plays a pivotal role in waste reduction and pollution prevention. When we recycle materials instead of sending them to landfills or incinerators, we minimize the amount of waste that ends up polluting our air, water, and soil. Landfills emit methane, a potent greenhouse gas, while incineration releases harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. By diverting waste from these disposal methods, recycling helps mitigate climate change and improves air and water quality, creating healthier environments for both humans and wildlife.

Energy Savings and Carbon Footprint Reduction

Another compelling benefit of recycling is its potential for energy savings and carbon footprint reduction. It often requires less energy to produce goods from recycled materials than from virgin resources. For instance, manufacturing products from recycled aluminum consumes significantly less energy compared to using raw aluminum ore. By conserving energy in the production process, recycling helps reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and lowers carbon emissions, making a meaningful contribution to global efforts to combat climate change.

Economic Opportunities and Job Creation

Recycling isn't just environmentally beneficial; it's also economically advantageous. The recycling industry creates jobs and stimulates local economies by employing millions of people worldwide in various roles, including collection, sorting, processing, and manufacturing. Moreover, recycling businesses generate revenue through the sale of recycled materials, contributing to economic growth and prosperity. By investing in recycling infrastructure and promoting sustainable practices, governments and businesses can create additional economic opportunities while advancing environmental sustainability.

Social Responsibility and Community Engagement

Recycling is not only a practical solution to environmental challenges but also a demonstration of social responsibility and community engagement. When individuals, businesses, and governments prioritize recycling, they send a powerful message about their commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. By working together to implement effective recycling programs and raise awareness about the importance of recycling, communities can build stronger, more resilient societies and inspire positive change on a global scale.

By embracing recycling and its numerous benefits, we can protect the planet, conserve natural resources, reduce pollution, and create a more sustainable and equitable world for all. It's time for everyone to recognize the critical role of recycling in shaping a brighter future and take meaningful action to make recycling a part of everyday life.

The City of Bowie will host an Electronics Recycling Event at the Public Works Department 16500 Annapolis Road, Bowie, MD 20716,

8:00am - 2:00pm

Shedding Light on Homelessness: Understanding the Root Causes and How to Help

In the state of Maryland it may come as a surprise to some that homelessness remains a prevalent issue. Behind the picturesque façade, there exists a stark reality for many individuals and families who find themselves without a place to call home. Understanding the multifaceted reasons behind homelessness is crucial for fostering empathy and encouraging collective action to address this pressing societal challenge.

Common Reasons for Homelessness:

1. Economic Hardship: A primary driver of homelessness in Maryland, as in many other regions, is economic instability. High living costs, stagnant wages, and limited job opportunities make it difficult for some residents to afford housing, especially in urban areas like Baltimore and Bethesda.

2. Lack of Affordable Housing: The scarcity of affordable housing options exacerbates the homelessness crisis. Many individuals and families simply cannot secure housing due to insufficient affordable units and long waiting lists for subsidized housing programs.

3. Mental Health Issues: Mental illness is both a cause and consequence of homelessness. Without adequate access to mental health services and support networks, individuals facing mental health challenges are at a heightened risk of experiencing homelessness.

4. Substance Abuse: Substance abuse disorders can contribute to homelessness by straining relationships, disrupting employment, and draining financial resources. Homeless individuals struggling with addiction often face barriers to accessing treatment and rehabilitation services.

5. Family Instability: Family breakdown, including domestic violence, parental neglect, and foster care emancipation, can lead to homelessness among youth and young adults who lack stable familial support systems.

As we reflect on these complex and intersecting factors contributing to homelessness in Maryland, it becomes evident that addressing this issue requires a comprehensive and compassionate approach from individuals, communities, and policymakers alike.

It is imperative that we come together as a community to support those experiencing homelessness and work towards sustainable solutions. Whether through volunteering at local shelters, advocating for affordable housing policies, or supporting organizations that provide essential services to homeless individuals, each of us has a role to play in making a difference.

Let us stand in solidarity with our fellow Marylanders who are facing homelessness, offering empathy, support, and opportunities for a brighter future. Together, we can build a more inclusive and compassionate society where everyone has a place to call home.

How to Help:

1. Volunteer: Reach out to local homeless shelters, food banks, and support organizations to inquire about volunteer opportunities and how you can contribute your time and skills to help those in need.

2. Donate: Consider making a donation to reputable organizations that provide housing assistance, job training, healthcare, and other essential services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

3. Advocate: Speak up for policies and initiatives that prioritize affordable housing, mental health services, and social welfare programs to address the root causes of homelessness and support vulnerable populations.

4. Educate: Raise awareness about the complexities of homelessness and challenge stereotypes and misconceptions by engaging in conversations with friends, family, and community members.

5. Extend Compassion: Show kindness and empathy towards individuals experiencing homelessness by acknowledging their humanity and offering assistance or support in whatever ways you can.

By coming together with empathy, compassion, and determination, we can make meaningful strides towards ending homelessness in Maryland and building a more equitable and inclusive society for all.

Click here for Bowie Homeless Services.

Empowering Business Success: Resources Available for Businesses in Bowie, MD

Whether you're a budding startup or an established business, there are numerous resources available to support your growth and success. From business incubators and chambers of commerce to government agencies and educational institutions, Bowie offers a wealth of resources to help businesses thrive. Below is a list of available resources.

Bowie Business Innovation Center (BIC)

At the heart of Bowie's entrepreneurial ecosystem lies the Bowie Business Innovation Center (BIC). The BIC provides entrepreneurs with access to flexible office space, cutting-edge technology, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities. Whether you need assistance with business planning, marketing strategies, or funding opportunities, the BIC is a one-stop destination for all your business needs.

Bowie Chamber of Commerce

The Bowie Chamber of Commerce serves as a vital resource for local businesses, offering networking events, educational workshops, and advocacy efforts. By joining the chamber, businesses gain access to a network of peers, promotional opportunities, and valuable resources to help them succeed in the competitive market landscape.

Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

The Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides free counseling, training, and resources to help small businesses start, grow, and prosper. With expert guidance on business planning, financial management, and marketing strategies, the SBDC equips entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of business ownership.

Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation (EDC)

The Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) offers a wide range of resources and support services for businesses looking to start or expand in the county. From business incentives and financing programs to workforce development initiatives and government contracting assistance, the EDC provides tailored solutions to help businesses thrive in Prince George's County.

Bowie offers a rich ecosystem of resources and support services to empower businesses of all sizes and industries. Whether you're seeking mentorship, networking opportunities, or assistance with business development, there are numerous organizations and institutions ready to help you succeed. By leveraging these resources and tapping into the expertise of the Bowie business community, entrepreneurs can unlock their full potential and build thriving businesses that contribute to the economic vitality of the region.

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