Laurel Volunteer Fire Department 122nd Awards Banquet

It took a minute to sink in, but I couldn’t help but be amazed that this was the 122nd Awards Banquet for the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department this year – What a testament to so many men and women who have helped keep our City safe from fire and other calamities for over a century! Added to that, four members received awards for 50+ years of service (John McConnell, Tom Stanton, Rosa Maher, and Mike Kirk). Congratulations to Firefighter of the Year Willie McCluney and the many many others who so deservedly were recognized – It was an honor to be with you!

Auto-generated description: Five people are standing together in a room, with some wearing formal uniforms and one in a black dress, in front of a table with an American flag in the background. (Photo credit: Laurel VFD)

Hispanic Heritage Celebration

And it was a pleasure to recognize and celebrate the many rich traditions of nationalities we have here in Laurel at the recent Hispanic Heritage Celebration. Participants got to enjoy traditional dances from Mexico and El Salvador, hear the moving immigrant story of Delegate Peña-Melnyk, congratulate award winners of those with Hispanic heritage that have contributed so much to our City, and partake of great traditional foods from restaurants right here in town. If you missed any of the fun, you can watch the replay direct on LaurelTV, hosted by our very own Melba from the City team!

Auto-generated description: A group of people seated in a room with a meeting or presentation taking place, as shown on the mounted screens. Auto-generated description: A group of people wearing colorful costumes and straw hats are performing in a room with wood paneling and a seal on the wall. (Photo credit: City of Laurel)