The West Laurel Wahoos have had a great season and, more important, the kids and their families have had a memorable and fun time thus far. The West Laurel Swim Team came out on top at the Laurel Invitational on July 7 at the Fairland Aquatics Center. The team scored the highest points over other Laurel teams. Swim on, Wahoos!
Jocelyn Knazik is the director of the new summer youth production of "Seussical" at the Laurel Mill Playhouse on Main Street. This very talented group of young actors will perform July 26 through Aug. 17 with 14 performances, including four matinees and three Thursday shows. Jocelyn is a multi-talented vocalist, actress, producer and director who is sure to wow us with "Seussical." Adults and children will love Horton and the Whos. For more information, go to laurelmillplayhouse.org and for reservations, call 301-617-9906 and press 2.
Our summertime holiday of Independence Day is but a memory now after parades and fireworks, but let us not forget those who have fought and those who have died to protect and defend our country. It has been a little over a year since 21-year-old USMC Lance Cpl. Eugene Mills gave his life in the line of duty in Afghanistan. It was a hard blow to our entire community as Gene was one of our own who grew up here in West Laurel. I recently spoke to his father, Gene, and the family wounds are still open and raw. I guess they always will be. Gene told me that several of young Gene's comrades have named their newborn children after him and have recounted story after story of his bravery and heroism. He is not forgotten.
I thought about this after John Weant contacted me about his true dismay over the theft of his American flag and Marine Corps Colors flag that flew for so long in front of his house on Bond Mill Road. John served with pride as a Marine Corps combat veteran of Beirut, Lebanon, in 1983. He was proud to display his colors to support our troops and his patriotism. "The audacity, disrespect and ignorance shown by this act toward the American and Marine Corps flags are reprehensible," Weant wrote in an email. I felt that it was important to include in my column this week so that John could air his frustration and the rest of us could support him in our disdain for this senseless act. Of all people, he has earned the right to proudly display his patriotism.
Continue to enjoy all the vibrant colors, sweet summer aromas, sunshine and warm late-night breezes.