Adrian for Laurel

»Bike Parade«

The Bike Parade has become one of my kids’ favorite events around town as they have the opportunity to spiff up their bike, prove their skills on a small course, then cruise up & down a stretch of closed road, all capped off with an ice cream. What’s not to like? :) It’s also been a way to mark their growing bike skills each year, as our oldest started off on his balance bike and now is a confident two wheeler, while our #2 needed me as a steadying hand on his bike this year as he gets more comfortable in his abilities. It was great also to see so many kids out, having a good time, and families getting to meet and build community. Thank you to Parks & Rec and co-sponsor Laurel Police for hosting this event which is a big hit for the little ones!

(Photo credit: The Laurel Independent - and you can barely see me at the very back helping steady my little guy at the starting line.) :)

»Father’s Day Breakfast«

Being a father is a special joy and a special responsibility, and dads can definitely help build each other up in our task of guiding and caring for our little (or not-so-little) ones. So it was an honor to join with fathers from around Laurel to take a moment to recognize each other, say hello, and draw strength in our shared work. Thank you to Councilman Mills for being inspired to put on this event, it was a pleasure to sit with U.S. Congressman Ivey and hear him share from his experiences as a father, and a word of encouragement to all fathers out there: you are a critical thread in the fabric of your young one’s lives, you are valued, you are needed, and you are not alone - reach out and form bonds that will strengthen you in your walk, as we all pull best when we all pull together.

»Son’s of American Legion Flag Retirement Ceremony«

One of my vivid memories as a youth a Scout summer camp was attending and participating in a flag retirement ceremony. Many folks may not be familiar with this type of ceremony, but it’s a way to respectfully and ceremonially dispose of flags which have flown faithfully and are no longer serviceable. The Sons of the American Legion hosted just such a ceremony on Flag Day, June 14, and I was happy to be there with the Cub Scout Pack I help lead to observe and participate. On a related note, if you have an American flag that has seen better days and is ready to be retired, you can drop it off in the red painted ‘post box’ out in front of the American Legion located at 2 Main Street. And if you happen to come during open hours, you can even come inside and they’ll be happy to provide you with a replacement 3x5 flag to continue proudly flying anew. Also related, if you’re a descendent of a veteran, you may find you’d like to join the Sons of the American Legion and can learn more information on their page.