Adrian for Laurel

»Homeless Person’s Memorial Day«

The end of December marks the longest night of the year, and has consequently been chosen as a particular time to remember those who are homeless and who have sadly passed away while out in the elements. It was a distinct privilege to join with Department of Human Services Director Marchelle LeBlanc, Taking Care of Our Neighbors Director Phillip Ott, Patrons for Peace Director Ruth Walls, and others gathered to bring remembrance and honor to those who have passed, to dedicate a new memorial near the Center’s entrance, and to renew commitment to serving those in our midst. I was honored to share a few thought as well and to thank on behalf of the City all of those who carry this important banner.

(Photo: City of Laurel)

»Troop 1250 Eagle Court of Honor«

Congratulations to new Eagle Scout Bowen Ghrist of Troop 1250 for reaching Scouting’s highest rank! And it was my pleasure to present a citation on behalf of the Mayor recognizing his efforts and service. During my comments, I also shared some reflections on the hallmarks of good leadership, including the difference between leadership and power – ‘leadership is the exercise of power within the guardrails of human virtue’. Within Scouting, those virtues are embodied in the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. I charged Bowen to hold to these guide posts in his service to others in the future, and congratulations again!

»City Ethics Training«

I wasn’t able to attend live, but completed watching the recording of the Laurel Ethics Commission’s presentation on January 6 covering the Financial Disclosure Statements required to be completed annually by all elected officials, appointed officials, and senior City staff. The purpose is to disclose any financial interests (whether through employment, family relationship, governing relationship, or other) that could give rise to actual or appearance of a conflict of interest. The Laurel Ethics Commission is also charged with overseeing the administration of the City’s Ethics Ordinance to ensure the highest degree of public integrity is maintained by our City. You can read more about the Commission on their information page and if you’re curious, feel free also to check out the video of the training posted below:

Christmas and the holiday season has so many joys, and so many events. :) As we turn the page into to 2026, it’s nice to reflect back at some of the ones celebrated with the City last month.

»Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting«

The holiday parade is always a lot of fun, especially since there’s the big guy in red providing the tail, but also because it ends at a wonderful event hosted by Parks & Rec at the Laurel Armory and the magic of tree lighting once the sky starts turning dark. I went through a whole bag of candy canes by the time I got to the crowd near the armory, but thankfully was able to find an extra bag and circle back to be sure everyone got some peppermint fun. :) And it was beautiful to see special guest Gabe “throw the switch” and light up the grounds while all the kids “from 1 to 92” admired the beauty. Thank you to the City team for putting on such a great event helping mark this special time of year!

(Photo: City of Laurel)

»City Committee & Commission Holiday Reception«

Each year around Christmas, the Mayor also invites members of the City Committees and Commissions to a holiday reception, this year held at Partnership Hall. There were tasty foods, mingling, and a chance to catch up and share Christmas wishes with folks. I was also happy to take a moment to recognize and thank all the residents gathered for volunteering their time, energy, and expertise to help make Laurel what it is. They are truly a gift for our community!

(Photo: City of Laurel)

»City Employee Holiday Party«

I also always try to make an effort to be at the City Employee holiday party to express thanks and spend time as a team. Seeing members from all of the City’s eleven departments is a neat experience, and I shared appreciation for each of them helping to create the ‘magic and wonder’ of Laurel in all the small and big ways they help residents day-to-day. A little added bonus: after the afternoon holiday party, everyone gets a little extra time off! (I headed back to the ‘day job’ to get some last bits of work done.) 🙂

»Las Posadas Celebration«

New this year, I also took the kiddos to the Las Posadas celebration at the House of Restoration church on Prince George Street which serves a primarily Spanish-speaking congregation. I was able to connect with Pastor Jorge Smith who also shared that their services are translated for any English-speaking individuals who’d like to come as well. And while there, the kiddos and I got to sample Ponche Navideño (a traditional Christmas punch with fruits and spices) and a wonderful spread from Salsa Brava, a Mexican restaurant located right here in Laurel. Without question, the biggest highlight for the kiddos was the piñata – All the kids took a number of swings at the particularly sturdy piñata (formed in the shape of a nativity star), and when the candy burst, they went scrambling! :) Thank you to Danielle Delgado for organizing and helping share this tradition with our community, and all those who helped host and make possible!

A few years back, a friend first introduced me to the growing tradition of “First Day Hikes”, and our family has been enjoying it as part of our New Years plans ever since. 🙂

First Day Hikes are simply an opportunity to get outdoors into parks on the first day of the year, whether walking, hiking, biking or more – And our family has found it a great way to shake loose the cobwebs from being inside so much during the holidays and experience an energizing jolt from good ol' fashion nature.

Many state parks even sponsor a program with ranger-guided or self-guided hikes, but you can pick wherever your favorite spot is for a breath of fresh air. Here’s First Day Hike pages from the national website as well as the one from Maryland Department of Natural Resources – And a few spots our family likes to visit:

• Of course, Laurel’s own Gude Park around Laurel Lakes, and Riverfront Park along the Patuxent River

• The Patuxent Research Refuge – the South Tract entrance has all levels of walking trails, from short paved trail, to a loop around Cash Lake, to ones winding through woods. And the North Tract is a little less developed but has access to 25 miles of trails.

• Fairland Recreational Park – Perhaps you’ve been to the swimming pool, tennis courts gym, or ice rink at Fairlands, but did you know there’s around 300 acres of paved and unpaved walking and bike paths? That’s where our family went this year (photo below).

• Patapsco Valley State Park is another great option within close reach with 16,043 acres of land along the Patapsco River. Because of it’s size, there are many park entrances for easy access and many skill levels served as well.

• Another of our family’s favorites: Lake Artemesia in College Park. There’s a paved walking path around the lake with a handful of neat viewing spots, plus wooded trails for those who prefer to go off the beaten path some.

These are just a few of the many great outdoor resources a stone’s throw away from Laurel, so whether it’s January 1, this weekend, or throughout the year, an encouragement to take a breath of nature into your day and life and it’ll add a little bounce to your step! 🙂🚶‍➡️