America’s Adopt A Soldier Seeks 300,000 Thank-You Letters for Deployed Service Members and Veterans
National Care Letter Campaign invites families, schools, businesses and community groups to participate through Dec. 31
By PRESS OFFICER
America’s Adopt A Soldier
WASHINGTON (Nov. 2, 2026)—Ahead of Veterans Day, America’s Adopt A Soldier® is inviting Americans to share a handwritten message of gratitude through its 2026 National Care Letter Campaign. The organization aims to collect more than 300,000 cards and letters for deployed service members and veterans in veterans homes and hospitals.
“Annually, over 200,000 care letters were shared,” said Mary Keeser, America’s Adopt A Soldier® Founder. “This year, the goal is to reach over 300,000, which would allow us to send at least four letters to every Veteran in a Veterans Home or Veterans Hospital as well as to our deployed Service Members.”
“The cards and letters we receive are drawn or written by a diverse group of individuals, from 3 years-old to over 100 years-old,” Mary adds. “From kitchen tables to classrooms, to businesses, to college dorms to faith-based establishments, the pens, pencils, crayons and pieces of paper used to create messages of hope, appreciation, unity and support will have a positive impact. The letters of care are truly the caring pulse of America towards our Service men and women.”
Participants can write a note of thanks, create a handmade card or draw a picture expressing appreciation for a recipient’s service and sacrifices. Families, classrooms, college groups, businesses, faith communities and civic organizations are encouraged to take part together.
Cards and letters will be accepted through Dec. 31, 2026. Mail contributions to:
America’s Adopt A Soldier
5240 Port Royal Rd Ste 204
Springfield, VA 22151
For campaign information, visit www.americasadoptasoldier.org, email CareLetters@AmericasAdoptASoldier.org or call 703-278-3718.
America’s Adopt A Soldier is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supporting service members, veterans and their families. Its National Care Letter Campaign shares messages of thanks and encouragement with deployed service members and veterans in veterans homes and hospitals.
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Celebrate the Start of the Holiday Season:
M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County Announces November Events
By PRESS OFFICER
M-NCPPC
RIVERDALE, Md. (Oct. 27, 2026)—The holiday season arrives in Prince George’s County! M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation announces free and low-cost events throughout November. From dazzling light displays and live performances to family-friendly events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
30th Annual Jug Bay Run/Walk for Wildlife
Saturday, November 7, 9–11 a.m.
Patuxent River Park
Register to walk or run and preserve wildlife! Together, the Patuxent River Park and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary comprise over 3,500 acres along the banks of the Patuxent River. The river and its shore are home to an incredible variety of wildlife. Proceeds from this event support projects, research, conservation, and education in the Patuxent River watershed.
Jason Marsalis Quartet with Vanisha Gould
Saturday, November 7, 8 p.m.
Harmony Hall Art Center
Enjoy an evening of world-class jazz with a concert starring the Jason Marsalis Quartet, featuring vocalist Vanisha Gould. Rooted in swing, blues, and modern jazz traditions, the quartet delivers a dynamic and deeply expressive performance led by Jason Marsalis’ masterful rhythm and musical insight. The night is elevated further by Vanisha Gould, whose rich tone, storytelling, and effortless phrasing bring warmth and sophistication to every song. Together, they create an intimate yet powerful concert experience that celebrates jazz artistry, spontaneity, and the timeless connection between voice and ensemble.
43rd Annual Choreographers’ Showcase: Move Different
Saturday, November 14, 7–8:30 p.m.
Prince George’s Publick Playhouse
Experience an evening of innovative movement and distinct perspectives at the 43rd Annual Choreographers’ Showcase, featuring contemporary and modern dance works by local emerging and established choreographers, followed by an artist talkback with the choreographers behind the work.
Trot for a Turkey
Saturday, November 21, 6–8 p.m.
Watkins Regional Park
Help families in need by running or walking through the beautiful Festival of Lights! The almost 3-mile course will feature dazzling light displays. The registration fee will provide a family in need with a holiday turkey.
Bikes and Lights
Sunday, November 22, 5–7 p.m.
Watkins Regional Park
Enjoy over 100 new light displays while riding your bike through the Festival of Lights at Watkins Regional Park. Experience dazzling scenes celebrating the magic of the holiday season. For safety, bike lights and helmets are required. Free for children riding in a tagalong/bike seat/trailer.
Festival of Lights
Friday, November 27—Friday, January 1, 5:30–9:30 p.m. (open nightly)
Watkins Regional Park
One of Prince George’s County’s most cherished holiday traditions is celebrating a
milestone this year with the 40th Annual Festival of Lights. Enjoy over 5 million dazzling lights throughout the 3-mile driving trail at Watkins Regional Park. For a unique experience, you can enjoy the light displays aboard a hayride, offering guests a memorable holiday experience.
For more information about upcoming M-NCPPC events, visit pgparks.com.
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Educational Systems Federal Credit Union Celebrates Customer Service Week 2026
By MIGUEL GONZALEZ
ESFCU
GREENBELT, Md. (Oct. 29, 2026)—Educational Systems Federal Credit Union celebrated Customer Service Week from October 5–9 with a variety of activities designed to recognize Ambassadors, strengthen connections across the organization and promote wellness.
Throughout the week, Ambassadors had opportunities to participate in activities that encouraged teamwork, relaxation and friendly competition. Events included a virtual meditation class, Virtual Bingo, a virtual deskercise class and Virtual Jeopardy.
Additional activities gave Ambassadors opportunities to engage with one another throughout the week. “Who’s That Ambassador? Baby Edition” challenged participants to match baby and toddler photos with their colleagues, while “What’s in My Office/Home Office” invited Ambassadors to complete a workspace-themed checklist. Wellness Bingo encouraged healthy habits through activities focused on personal well-being.
Member feedback was also incorporated into the celebration, highlighting Ambassadors who made a positive impact through personalized service, helpful guidance and memorable member experiences.
“Customer Service Week gives us an opportunity to recognize the people behind the experiences our members value every day,” said Girado Smith, President/CEO of Educational Systems Federal Credit Union. “Our Ambassadors bring care, knowledge and commitment to every interaction, and this week is an important reminder that the way we support one another directly contributes to the way we serve our members.”
The activities reflected the Credit Union’s continued focus on creating an environment where Ambassadors feel connected, appreciated and empowered to provide exceptional member service.
“Our culture is built through the everyday actions of our Ambassadors,” Smith said. “By creating opportunities to connect, recharge and celebrate one another, we strengthen the relationships that help us deliver a consistent and meaningful member experience.”
Educational Systems Federal Credit Union has proudly served the education community since 1955. With $1.4 billion in assets and 13 branches, the Credit Union serves over 80,000 members of the education community including school employees, students, parents and individuals working for education-related organizations. For more information, visit https://www.esfcu.org/.
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