Around town
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Of course, Laurel’s own Gude Park around Laurel Lakes, and Riverfront Park along the Patuxent River
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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Updates to the City’s election laws
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Various pieces of legislation I’ve introduced and helped shape this year
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Tips on activities around town for families
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Current initiatives I’m working on
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If you’re 65 or older, or a retired member of the armed services, who’s been in their home for ten years or more, there’s a good chance you qualify for this credit.
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The credit equals 20% of Laurel property tax assessed on the first $500k of your home.
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It cannot be combined with any other City property tax credit, but it can be layered on top of your Homestead Credit applied to your Laurel property taxes.
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The presentation download also includes a summary of Prince Georges County and State of Maryland property tax credits available to seniors and veterans as well.
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Flashing light pedestrian cross-walks;
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Enhanced pedestrian and traffic signage;
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Updated pavement markings;
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Tree trimmings, and more
Seeking Members for Senior Residents & Persons with Disabilities Committee
The end of last year, I was re-appointed by the Mayor as Chair of the City’s Citizens Advisory Committee for Senior Residents & Persons with Disabilities. It was one I chaired when I first joined Council in 2024, and it’s an honor to help serve residents in this way.
The Committee’s mission is to give voice to persons with disabilities and seniors who live in our community – Whether it’s policies and legislation adopted, amenities and programs around town, or resources available.
We are need of one more member to reach the required ‘quorum’ – If you or someone you know may be interested, please reach out to me and happy to share more about what we do and invite you to join us for a meeting.
My thanks to the existing Committee members for your service and I look forward to helping serve the related resident groups in the work of our City!
MLK Wreath Laying // MLK Day Celebration -- Highlights & Pics
»Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Wreath Placement«
This past week included great recognitions of the impact and remembrances of Dr. King’s legacy. I was honored to join with the City in placing a wreath at Dr. King’s memorial at the Municipal Center and to share some brief remarks. In this year also celebrating 250 years since America’s founding, I recalled Dr. King’s words that he came to ‘cash the check’ written in the Declaration of Independence that ‘all men are created equal’, calling us to live up to that promise. And while we still strive to fulfill Dr. King’s dream, and the dream of America, we are encouraged and strengthened by his words and example which changed the course of our country for the better and propels us to continue the work.
(Photo: City of Laurel)
»MLK Day Celebration«
And what a celebration we had on MLK Day! The award-winning Laurel High School choir sang three pieces over the course of the program, talented spoken word and dance artists contributed their art, and the address of Mr. Cortland Jones reflected on Dr. King’s deep impact on his own personal life and trajectory. I was particularly touched by his stories illustrating the degree to which Dr. King, and those joining with him, had to suffer to advance the cause each step of the way, and Dr. King paying the ultimate price. Following the program, everyone chipped in to assemble care packages for seniors as part of Dr. King’s legacy of service. Thank you to Ms. Carreen Koubek from the City team for coordinating, for all those sharing their talents in the program, and our community for coming out to honor and serve.
(Photo: City of Laurel)
Thank you Neighbors-helping-Neighbors in the Snow!
I shared during my report last night about seeing neighbors-helping-neighbors through our snow & ice adventures this week – I’ve seen residents shoveling the driveway of their next-door neighbors, seen folks use their snowblower to clear the sidewalks for the block, folks lending their shovels to each other, helping each other get unstuck, and more.
It’s a great witness of the community we have here!
Of course, there’s still more to go and I’m sure it’ll take some patience as we all get dug out – I know I’ve put in 7+ hours of shoveling thus far and still chipping away in parts - phew. (And I’ll admit there’s been at least 3 cups of hot cocoa in there too – got keep powered up you know.) ☕😜
Something also to share: Prince Georges County has a temporary initiative through Jan 30 called Operation Silver Shovel designed to help dig out PG County residents aged 70+ or those with limited mobility – You can find out more about the program and eligibility criteria on the linked page, and requests can be made by calling 311.
With that, I’ll leave you with a picture of one of our little guys summiting the legendary “Mount Snow” (geographic marker pending). 🗻😉
Homelessness Memorial // Eagle Court Citation // City Ethics Training -- Highlights & pics
»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:
Holiday Season Recap - Highlights & pics
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!
*First Day Hike* Fun
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:
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! 🙂🚶➡️
Ivy Hill Veterans Flags // Ethics Course Completion // LMSC Visit -- Highlights & Pics
»Veterans Day Flag Placement at Ivy Hill Cemetary«
One of the annual Veterans Day traditions here in the City is the placement of American flags at the gravestones of veterans laid to rest in the historic Ivy Hill Cemetery on Sandy Spring Road. The cemetery dates to around the 1850s and there are veterans from the many generations of Americans who have served since that time. Thank you to Lisa and Christa for organizing, and I was glad to bring my family to join with community volunteers, a group of Air Force JROTC students, and a Cub Scout Pack to honor our veterans and know that that we remember and value their service.
»Completion of Municipal Ethics Training Course«
Last week, I went to Annapolis for a Municipal Ethics training course that provides an overview of the unique requirements for elected officials. It outlined the 11 main ethical areas to be alert to in order to maintain the highest level of integrity in office, including: (a) conflict of interest, (b) use of public resources, (c) use of prestige of office, (d) soliciting/ accepting gifts, and (e) use of confidential information. For those curious, the State of Maryland has a state-level ethics code and each municipality can adopt a code that is no less stringent than the State’s. In Laurel’s case, we also have the Laurel Ethics Commission comprised of appointed volunteers that oversee ethics rules as they apply to the City, including things like collecting and review the required financial disclosure forms from elected officials, members of Commissions, and other bodies. Holding ourselves to high ethical standards is what enables public confidence in our work, and educating and revisiting these guardrails is a critical part of serving the public well.
»Laurel Multiservice Center Visit«
There was originally a gathering scheduled for Nov 15, and although plans had to change last-minute, I appreciated the opportunity to connect with the two of the Partner organizations that are a part of making our Laurel Multiservice Center a success. The first was Wanda Fisher of Jobs Have Priority who serves as part of the Center’s transitional housing program – We have around 18 units that can serve as a helping hand and bridge for individuals who need to get back up on their feet and that program went live this year with more to come. The second was Susan and Thomas of Taking Care of Our Neighbors, a program to house those needing shelter overnight during the cold winter months. This will be the second year the program (previously known as “Winter Haven”) will be held at the LMSC and volunteer are still needed for check-in or overnight timeslots starting January and running into March. To sign up, you can reach out to staff at the LMSC at 301-947-3010 or email [email protected].
Reader’s Theater Performance / LVFD 123rd Banquet / Robbins Mural Dedication -- Highlights & Pics
»Reader’s Theater performance at Selbourne House«
I thoroughly enjoyed the Readers Theater performance at the Selbourne House on Main Street back on October 24. Performers were drawn from among the senior residents at Selbourne House and members of the wider Laurel community and they delivered short stories, poetry recitations, spoken biographies of African American trailblazers, and songs. The group is led and coached by talented actor Charles Clyburn about whom every member shared how he had helped them come out of their shell, professionally embody the emotion of their part, and project their voice with confidence. It was stellar performance and a testament to the talent of the members and Mr. Clyburn. I heartily encourage anyone who has an interest in joining to reach out and I’m happy to make the connection, and to of course keep a lookout for their next performance! (UPDATE: LaurelTV released a video spot providing highlights from the performance.)
»Laurel Volunteer Fire Department’s 123rd Awards Banquet«
Also in October, I joined with Council colleagues and the Mayor to help celebrate our LVFD’s 123rd annual awards banquet – I’m still astounded at the long legacy of volunteer firefighters here in Laurel, and it included a special night recognizing 50 years of service (that’s 50 years!) for Vic Whipple. Many other awards were presented, including Firefighter of the Year to Simone McCumber and awards to volunteers for the number of calls and hours they served this past year. Thank you to all our volunteers for helping keep Laurel safe, and it was also encouraging to see a great new class of volunteers being trained: be sure to check out their website if you’re interested to learn more about how you might become a part as well.
(Photo credit: LFVD)
»Chandler Robbins Mural Dedication on Main Street«
Readers here have seen me share about the amazing new mural on Main Street that was worked on this fall, and on October 25 it was officially dedicated with a host of guests and guest speakers making for a special (perhaps even historic) afternoon. Included among the presenters were the artist himself Jeff Huntington, Chandler Robbins’ daughter who shared touching and insightful anecdotes about her father’s love of birds, co-workers who recounted the many significant achievements Robbins made to the world of bird study and nature preservation, and more. One thing I found fascinating was how Robbins was one of the main pioneers of using sound alone to identify birds, even publishing sonograms within the bird guides he wrote and teaching others to recognize their unique tunes. Thanks again to Laurel for the Patuxent for spearheading this public art beautification and all who contributed: it also stands as a great testament to people coming together to build community!
(Photo credit: City of Laurel)
Municipal Leaders Conference / Laurel Citizens University / Eagle Court - Highlights & pics
» Maryland Municipal League Excellence in Leadership Conference «
The first three days of last week I was at a Fall Conference of municipal leaders from across the state held out in western Maryland near Deep Creek. Courses I took included Municipal Budgeting and Effective Meetings and I’ve now completed all 14 classes to be certified in municipal governance save one, which I’ll complete on Nov 13. Not only is it helpful to have collected this knowledge to enhance my ability to serve, but it was also invaluable to connect with municipal leaders around the state to share information and form helpful relationships for Laurel as well.
» Laurel Citizens University «
Laurel Citizens University kicked off on Thursday, Oct 2 and it was a pleasure to be there to help welcome participants and to help provide insights about the City’s legislative process – One thing I emphasized with those present is the preeminent importance their voice holds in the Council’s deliberations and to never feel shy or afraid to come and participate at Council Meetings. You can learn more about this program on the LCU dedicated page, and perhaps we’ll see you in a future class!
(Photo credit: City of Laurel)
» Troop 1250 Eagle Court of Honor for Noah Eng «
On October 11, I represented the City at the Eagle Court of Honor for Noah Eng of Troop 1250 based on Laurel. It was among the most beautiful settings I’ve been in for an Eagle Court, and it was a true honor to be present to help witness this important moment in his and his family’s Scouting experience as well as share reflections. One of the items I shared was that the path to Eagle is one of collecting experiences and developing skills like placing tools in a hiking pack – And now that he’d reached his Eagle, he’ll be able to pull from that pack to serve those he encounters along his life journey ahead. Congratulations Noah and thanks for the invitation to your special day!
Emancipation Day 5k / Doggie Dip / Emancipation Day Parade / City Team Building - Highlights & Pics
September zipped by, but I wanted to be sure to highlight a few of the great events I had a chance to be a part of during the month.
» Emancipation Day 5k «
For over a hundred years, Laurel’s historic African American community has celebrated Emancipation Day, among the longest continuously running celebrations in the nation. St. Mark’s United Methodist Church has been at the heart of these celebrations, and in addition to the parade and picnic (featured below), has also hosted a 5K in recent years to benefit those impacted by diabetes. It was a pleasure to help celebrate and cheer runners on in the course of the morning, and many thanks to Jackie for her efforts in organizing the 5K which brought out scores, if not hundreds, of runners – congrats all!
(Photo credit: City of Laurel)
»Doggie Dip Day«
It was a busy day, as shortly after the 5K I headed on over to the City’s Greenview Pool to witness a fun fest being had by canines and their owners as the pool wound down for the summer. I fully expected to get sopping wet with dogs shaking dry but happy to report that it only happened two or three times. ;) And while there were many dogs all running around having a good time and doggy paddling, everyone was well behaved (even the humans). ;) If your dog loves water and playing in groups, this has got to be one to mark down on your calendar for the Saturday after Labor Day each year.
(Photo credit: City of Laurel)
»Emancipation Day Parade«
After a brief respite, it was back across town to help process in the annual Emancipation Day Parade starting at the Municipal Center and ending at the grounds around St. Mark’s. There were marchers, musicians, and dancers, and at the parade route’s end, food, music, games, and socializing. Thank you Rev. Walter Smith, Jr. and the St. Mark’s community for this important celebration with deep roots and meaning, and an honor to share in with you!
(Photo credit: City of Laurel)
»City Team Building Event«
The over 200+ members of the City Team are diligent about their work day-in and day-out, but believe it or not, it’s rare that they have an opportunity to gather as one – That’s why events like the one in September bringing all the City Team together to connect and have fun can be a great opportunity. As I walked around, I was able to say “hi”, chat, and express thanks from residents to members of Public Works, Communications, Laurel Police, Parks & Rec, Budget, Emergency Operations, and more. And with everyone gathered as one, you can really see the breadth of what we as a City have to be able to support the people of Laurel. Thank you team for your care for our community!
(Photo credit: City of Laurel)
My latest Council Connections Interview
Here’s a video of my latest interview for Council Connections, LaurelTV’s show series with members of Council to help share updates and goings-on direct from Councilmembers.
In this show I share about:
(Note: Although I recorded the interview on June 30, there was an accidental delay in its release, so you may notice some of the “current initiatives” are actually items that have already worked their way through Council.)
Hope you enjoy and as always, reach out to me anytime with questions or comments!
Download my Elderly & Veterans Tax Credit presentation
Recently I met with group of seniors here in Laurel to share about the Laurel Elderly & Veterans Property Tax Credit – Earlier this year I authored an update to lift the 5-year expiration of the credit as a way of helping seniors and veterans more affordably ‘age in place’ and remain important parts of our communities.
You can download a copy of the presentation, which also includes graphics showing real estate tax trends here in Prince George’s County. Some of the key pointers:
It was a pleasure getting to meet and help folks learn more about this credit, and please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions too!
Laurel Rides the Rails / City Hall in the Park -- Highlights & Pics
»Laurel Rides the Rails at the Laurel Museum«
Over the summer, I took the kiddos to see the fun exhibit on display at the Laurel Museum called “Laurel Rides the Rails: Tales of Trains & Trolleys”. Laurel boasts the oldest continuously operating train station on the historic B&O Railroad, itself the oldest railroad in the United States – Quite an honor! Not to mention the trolleys that used to run down to DC starting at what is now Oliver’s Tavern on Main Street. It’s amazing to see how connected Laurel has been even from its earliest days, and while you’ll find wonderful peaks into the past on the first floor, kids can also find a fun room in the cellar room: coloring pages, train set for playing, and a train garden specially made with Laurel landmarks (pictured below with my kiddos). It makes for a fun afternoon and you can catch it during normal museum hours Friday - Sunday 12 - 4 p.m. and the exhibit runs thru Dec 21.
»City Hall in the Park at Patuxent Greens«
The City Hall in the Park series have been a great fun to attend over the summer, and August’s installment was no exception. We had a great turnout at the City Clubhouse over on Greenview Drive in the Patuxent Greens, good food (with Communications Director Natalie Williams as grill master), good information sharing from the Department Directors (e.g., be sure to check out Parks & Recs Fall 2025 brochure for all the fun ahead), and good opportunity to ask and get questions answered. Thank you to all who came out, and the last one will take place on Thursday, Sep 25 at Emacipation Park starting at 6:30 p.m.
(Photo credit: City of Laurel)
Laurel Elementary Back-to-School Bash - Highlights & Pics
I recently enjoyed visiting Laurel Elementary School for their Back-to-School Bash kicking off their 2025/6 school year – There were bounce houses, face painting, free vaccines, free food, after-school program vendors, energetic music, and more!
While there, I had to pleasure to connect with Principal Tyrone Harris and we took a few moments to chat about how the school was doing and plans for the coming year. An area of focus for him right now is deepening the engagement with the parents of students, including a new Parent Teacher Organization and encouraging parents to help out in programs at the school. Communication is already strong, and this represents a next step in strengthen the school community.
I also chatted with Mae Nweke of Young Engineers, one of the after-school program providers. She uses interlocking bricks with mechanics to teach engineering concepts while having fun. As she described, ‘engineering is a critical skill for kids to learn nowadays and is highly relevant for the future.’
It was great to see the energy for the new school year - made me want to get a new pencil case and sharpener just to be a part. 😉 And also encouraging to see the teachers, staff, and programs investing in bringing up the next generation of Laurelites!
Adding Instagram & Bluesky to My Social Channels
If you’re an Instagram and/or Bluesky user, I’ve got some news – You can now find me on both these platforms! 🙂
Our modern day has so many options for following, sharing, and learning 👍 – We all have our favs, and I wanted to be sure folks had a way to connect, follow my work, and learn about City goings-on in their platform of choice.
So head on over and hit “follow” for my Instagram profile AdrianForLaurel and my Bluesky handle AdrianForLaurel to catch all the latest there. (Of course, don’t forget my Facebook page for those in Facebookland.) 🌄
And you can always find all the latest ways to connect with me on my website’s Connect page (including email newsletter, RSS feeds, email, phone, and more).
Thanks for following and don’t hesitate to reach out anytime with an idea, question, or just to say hi!
What are those Bump-outs on Main Street about?
If you’ve made your way down Main Street lately, you’ve likely seen the series of newly installed “bump-outs” along both sides of the street and may be wondering ‘what that’s all about’?
They’re actually part of a multi-stage Main Street safety enhancement the City has been working on, including:
The bump-outs themselves are designed to increase ‘line of sight’ for vehicles entering Main Street from the side roads — If you’ve attempted to turn onto Main Street over the years from these side roads, you’ve likely experienced difficulty looking up-and-down the street for cross-traffic. This makes that much easier.
I know for myself, working on Main Street and walking up and down to the restaurants, Post Office, and other businesses each week, I do feel like vehicle traffic has improved over the last 3 years as these changes have been rolled out. Of course, there’s unfortunately still your occasional discourteous driver that isn’t paying heed, but by-and-large as I enter a crosswalk, I find drivers slowing and stopping for a safe crossing.
If you’re interested to see more on the changes, check out this presentation with pictures and descriptions, and of course, just let myself or the folks at DPW know if you have any questions.
Juneteenth / MML Conference / City Hall in the Park - Highlights & Pics
»Juneteenth Festival«
The first half of the summer has been chock full of great activities, including our City’s Juneteenth Festival marking Freedom Day when the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation reached Texas at the end of the Civil War. Residents and vendors were out for a beautiful afternoon, including guest vocalists and the Laurel Boys & Girls Club Wildcats (one of whom is pictured below receiving a special proclamation from the Mayor). I also had a chance to connect with Mr. Joseph Fisher of First Generation College Bound and listened as he shared the importance of a values-driven culture supporting youth to provide them a springboard to their future. If you haven’t been out to City’s annual Juneteenth Festival, I recommend you check it out and help mark this important turning point in our nation’s history.
Photo credit: City of Laurel
»Maryland Municipal League Summer Conference«
Each year hundreds and hundreds of Maryland’s Mayors, Councilmembers, City Department Heads, and more convene for an annual summer conference to learn and share ways to help their municipalities be successful. Certification classes I took at the event included topics such as Open Meetings Act, Public Information Act, Municipal Employment Law, Social Media & 1st Amendment, Planning for Continuity of Operations, and Cyber risks for Municipal Governments. I also participated in the pre-conference tour of the historic town of Snow Hill where I connected with their Economic Development Director and Main Street Non-profit & got a number of good ideas to bring back to Laurel (more to come on that down the road).
»City Hall in the Park«
A great way to connect with City elected representatives and City Departments are at the monthly summer City Halls in the Park. This month’s was held at Marcus Colbert Community Park and was well attended, featured food and kid face painting, and a great opportunity to connect and hear questions and topics on everyone’s minds. I met a couple who had just moved to Laurel two weeks prior and were able to share experiences and ideas for work they have done that will help benefit Laurel. And during our open Q&A session, multiple residents shared their interest in seeing Laurel attract a great array of businesses to build up the economic vibrancy of our town, something very near and dear to my heart as well. Thank you for everyone who came out, to our City team for putting on the event, and the next one will be on Thursday, August 28 starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Greenview Drive Cabana.
Photo credit: City of Laurel
A Field of Community Fun at Touch-A-Truck + Helicopter Visit
I couldn’t help but be struck by the view as I walked across McCullough Field with my kiddos on Tuesday –
A group of families were wrapping up a youth football practice, a bunch of men were playing an energetic game of pick-up soccer, there were kids out on the playground swinging & running around, doubles teams having a good volley out on the tennis courts, and across the field was the amazing sight of a Maryland State Trooper helicopter that had just landed and was giving tours & photos as part of the City’s Touch-A-Truck event. I even stopped to take a short video pan of the moment:
I was struck by the feeling: this is what community is all about. People spending time with each other, having fun, creating stories, meeting new friends, all doing different things, but all part of the same thing.
A big smile came across my face – and I also captured this pic courtesy of the Parks & Rec team as a family memory for our photo album. Cheers Laurel! 🍻
Bike Parade / Father’s Day Breakfast / SAL Flag Retirement Ceremony — Highlights & Pics
»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.
MD Black Chamber Meetup / Crepes on Main Launch / Memorial Day Service - Highlights & Pics
»Maryland Black Chamber of Commerce Small Business Mixer«
It was a great pleasure to be part of extending a warm Laurel welcome to the Maryland Black Chamber of Commerce (MBCC) as they held their small business mixer at Caribe Express on Main Street on May 22. I had a chance to meet Chamber President Kenneth White (a resident of Laurel) who hopes to see the MBCC do additional events in Laurel as well. He shared with me about the free educational resources available to business owners through the MBCC (like how to use AI in your business, making sense of your business finances, etc.) plus the strong financial partners that help bring entrepreneurs’ vision to life (like FSC First). I let him know how excited I was to see MBCC help the small businesses of Laurel (one of my personal passions), and it was also another testament to me about the many talented people we have here in our town! Check out MBCC website linked above to become a member.
(Photo credit: MBCC)
»”Crepes on Main” Ribbon-Cutting«
In an almost perfect coincidence, the next day I joined with the City and community to celebrate the opening of another new great food spot Main Street: Crepes on Main. Small business owner Remi Bello shared how she and her husband had a favorite crepe spot in Baltimore which inspired her to one day open her own, and we swapped stories about the great crepes spot we’d both visited in Annapolis. Well Laurel: We now have one of our own! :) – If you haven’t tried crepes before, they’re loosely like super thin pancakes, but inside you can put all types of goodies: anything from sweet tastes of chocolate and fruit, to savory tastes like shrimp and Thai sauce. I was honored to eat the first crepe off the line which I thoroughly enjoyed! So no matter your taste buds, you’re sure to find something to love at Crepes on Main, so come on down to Main Street and check them out for the Grand Opening on July 4th or after!
(Photo credit: City of Laurel)
»52nd Annual Memorial Day Joint Service at Ivy Hill Cemetery«
As I’ve gone on in years, I’ve worked to make a special effort to pause and reflect on Memorial Day – Sure, it’s day to look forward to as a long weekend and for cookouts with family and friends. But remembering what the day is about, those whose lives were lost to preserve and protect the unique freedoms we can so easily forget, precious freedoms only purchased by those willing to pay the highest price. The morning’s reflection were emceed by Mr. Robert DiPietro, past Mayor of Laurel and emcee of the event for 51 of the 52 years its been held here in Laurel. He alluded that it was time for him to pass the torch, and our thanks to him, Laurel Volunteer Fire, Laurel Volunteer Rescue, Laurel Police, and the American Legion for helping us pay tribute and bring honor each year in such a fitting way.
