Honor Flight Network is a nonprofit organization dedicated to our nation's veterans, commemorating not only their bravery, but also the sacrifices they endured while in the service of this great nation. Giving priority to the terminally ill, senior former service members and survivors of World War II, the group is dedicated to transporting our heroes from all parts of the United States to Washington D.C., allowing them to see, enjoy and reflect, while visiting the nation's capital and its many memorials.
Laurel American Legion Post 60 will host a group of these aging warriors Thursday, May 7, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at a Meet and Greet in the Post lounge, followed by a dinner in the hall. Join the legion for this opportunity to meet, recognize and thank these heroes who are a living part of our history.
The last known surviving veteran of World War I, Frank Buckles, died in 2011. It is estimated that 640 World War II veterans die each day. If you would like to contribute on behalf of these deserving soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines, and help them see the monuments that honor them, go to the website at honorflight.org..
Our local American Legion has a varied and interesting calendar of events throughout the year. If you are interested in what's happening at the post, and you are taking advantage of social media, you would do well to seek out Post 60's home page to learn about upcoming events that are open to the public. Go to laurelpost60.org.
It appears that the hopes and desires of many residents in and around Old Town will become a reality soon, as Tabitha and Ronnie Clark are set to open More Than Java Café at 358 Main St. Laurel residents since 1997, the duo cited a number of factors when they decided to locate their new endeavor along the iconic roadway.
Being part of the historic and arts and entertainment districts, and the feeling of being family-oriented made the choice an easy one. Plans are to be open seven days a week. There will be Internet access, along with poetry, jazz and karaoke nights. To learn more, call 301-490-3200 or go to their web page at morethanjavacafe.com.
Lakefest, an annual city event, is slated for Saturday, May 2, 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Granville Gude Park, 8300 Mulberry St. It promises to be a day of games, entertainment, hayrides, arts and crafts, balloons, face painting and a D.J. The lake house will be open for business, offering paddle boats and snacks.
Hopefully you are planning to attend what is, for me, the best day of the year, Laurel's Main Street Festival. Set for Saturday, May 9, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., the street will be lined with vendors with many unique items to purchase, good food, great folks, lots of bands and entertainment. You never know whom you're going to run into.Come out and enjoy the day. See you there!
Regina Watts Smith celebrated her 97th birthday on March 29. She has the energy and fortitude of "kids" half her age. Her granddaughter, Terry Giddings, describes her simply as "amazing!" Still stylish and full of energy, she is an inspiration to us all.