»Preakness Preview Race held at Laurel Park«

Laurel Park race track hosted Preakness Preview on April 19, extending an invitation to Council and Mayor to join in the celebration. It was a pleasure to bring the family along to take in this landmark that’s been a cornerstone of Laurel since 1911, especially since it’s set to be demolished and redeveloped in 2027. At the event, I had the chance to meet the Preakness Festival chief organizer who shared with us plans for next year when the Preakness will be hosted in Laurel. Organizers want to turn the day event into a weeks long event similar to that held at the Kentucky Derby, and I was keen to suggest Laurel small businesses would love to be a part of the preparations once they begin! More to come on that front, but for now keep your eyes turned to PreaknessFestival.com for information as we approach May 2026.

Auto-generated description: A woman with glasses and a young child, who has chocolate on their face, are sitting at a table with plates and watching horse racing at a track.

» City Hall in the Park «

The summer series of “City Hall in the Park” is back, and on April 24 I joined with members of the City team, Council, and the Mayor at Gude Park to connect with neighbors. I was able to talk with at least 5 to 10 individuals to help answer questions, connect them with City resources, and let them know about upcoming summer kids activities too. If you missed this one, they’re being held each month at a different park around town – the next is on Thu, May 22 at Discovery Park and you can also contact me to find out the additional future dates/ locations. This year there’s free food, a DJ providing music, kids activities, and more – So you can bring your little ones for some fun while you get your question answered and/or hear the latest developments for our town.

Auto-generated description: Six people standing outdoors in a line, facing the camera, with trees and a building in the background. (Photo Credit: City of Laurel)

» Main Street Festival «

Despite a rough start, it was so good to see so many smiling faces and vendors out at this year’s Main Street Festival. I saw yummy food (ice cream, fresh rotisserie, funnel cake, & more), crafts (sewing, painted furniture, Laurel-inspired items, & more), non-profits (Laurel Historical Society, Laurel Cats, Women’s Club, Voices of Laurel, & more), kids fun zone, music, and more. I was also able to help welcome Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman to Main Street and guide her around the various booths. In addition, I staffed our City Council table for a couple hours, helping answer resident questions and hand out free stickers and candy. Thank you to the Laurel Board of Trade for all the hard work in putting on this event – it’s a staple of Laurel life and we’re so grateful to kick-off the summer each year celebrating Laurel Main Street with pride!

Auto-generated description: A man taking a selfie at an outdoor event with tents, booths, and people in the background.