By Tony E Windsor
Special “Hometown Hero Banners” are slated to begin hanging over Laurel streets in the coming weeks, thanks to a project that was started late last year. During a recent Mayor and Council meeting, Town Manager Jamie Smith told the council that after some delay during the holiday season, organizers have successfully submitted 12 banners to be designed. Proofs for the banners will soon be reviewed by the families, ensuring the final product meets their wishes.
Smith said, once approved, the banners will be printed and displayed around town from just before Memorial Day through Labor Day, utilizing existing poles and brackets. Even though the town has traditionally displayed Fourth of July banners, this year many of those will be replaced with Hometown Hero Banners for a more personalized tribute.
Example of one of the Hometown Hero banners
In an effort to keep the community involved, an advertisement will soon run in the Laurel Star newspaper, inviting more people to participate in the project. Smith said in addition to military honorees, the community is invited to purchase a banner to honor first responders such as firefighters, police officers, and EMS personnel.
Residents who want to sponsor a Hometown Hero Banner can do so for $140. According to local organizers, the previously produced banners “have turned out very well.” People who purchase banners can also express their preferences on where they’d like them displayed.
For additional details or to order a Hometown Hero Banner, contact the Town of Laurel at 302-875-2277.
In other council discussions, plans are well underway in Laurel as organizers gear up for the 31st Annual Fourth of July celebration, slated for Friday, July 4th. Smith said event coordinator Alexis Oliphant has been “working tirelessly, sending out donation letters for the fireworks display and accepting applications for both food and non-food vendors.”
She said car show information was sent to various car show sites over the past weekend, drawing interest from auto enthusiasts across the region. Parade applications are set to be ready in early April, ensuring ample time for participants to finalize their plans and secure their place in the patriotic-themed parade.
Smith said that Janosik Park remains a preferred venue for the event, contingent upon the timely completion of the ongoing shoreline stabilization project. In case of delays, organizers have an alternative plan to shift the festivities to Market Square Park and extend the car show along Central Avenue.
Smith said the TAP (Transportation Alternatives Program) project is expected to begin in August, so it should not interfere with this year’s celebration. “As long as the shoreline stabilization at Janosik Park is finished, visitors can look forward to the festivities unfolding in the usual spot.
Planning continues to move forward and Smith said and promises “an unforgettable Fourth of July” for attendees. She said anyone interested in participating in the Laurel Independence Day community event, or simply hoping to enjoy the day’s festivities, can look for more updates on parade applications, vendor registration, and car show details in coming weeks.