Shop with a Cop, Shelter Groundbreaking + Community Spirit

Happy Tuesday, Laurel! 👋

As we head into the final week before Christmas, we're reflecting on what it means to be a community. This week brought challenges—fires, displacement, and reminders of those experiencing homelessness—but it also brought neighbors showing up for neighbors in powerful ways.

In today's edition, we're covering a fire on Main Street, LPD’s “Shop with a Cop”, the incredible community response to a displaced resident, and celebrating groundbreaking news about a new homeless shelter coming to North Laurel. Plus, we've got 12 events happening THIS WEEK as we count down to Christmas, from blood drives to holiday movies!

And if you're planning ahead? We've got 2 more events including the Kwanzaa Showcase and New Year's Day ice skating!

Let's dive in! 👇

Emergency crews responded to a fire in a commercial building on Main Street this week after a bathroom fire broke out. Firefighters arrived quickly and contained the blaze, preventing it from spreading to other parts of the building or neighboring businesses.

While the fire was relatively small and controlled, it's a reminder of how quickly emergencies can happen and why we're grateful for our first responders. The Laurel Volunteer Fire Department and mutual aid companies acted swiftly to protect our downtown businesses and community.

No serious injuries were reported, though the Rainbow Florist will need repairs before reopening. Our thoughts are with the business owners and employees impacted by this incident.

Thanks to LVFD and all responding fire departments for their quick action and professionalism. You keep our community safe every single day.

The Laurel Police Department brought Christmas magic to local children through their annual "Shop with a Cop" event, and it was a beautiful success!

This heartwarming program pairs Laurel police officers with children from families facing financial hardship, taking them on a shopping trip to pick out gifts for themselves and their loved ones. For the kids, it's an unforgettable experience—one-on-one time with officers who genuinely care, the excitement of picking out gifts, and the pride of giving something special to their families.

These moments build trust, break down barriers, and remind us that behind the badge are people who care deeply about our community's youngest members.

Thank you to the Laurel Police Department, the officers who volunteered, and the sponsors who made it possible. You gave children more than gifts—you gave them memories and hope.

This is what Laurel is all about. After a devastating arson fire displaced local resident Mayra Rivera from her home, the community immediately stepped up to help.

Neighbors, friends, and even strangers have come together to support Mayra during this incredibly difficult time. Donations, fundraisers, and offers of assistance have poured in, demonstrating the compassion and solidarity that makes Laurel special.

Losing your home to fire is traumatic under any circumstances—but knowing it was arson makes it even more painful. Yet amid that pain, there's been an overwhelming outpouring of support that reminds us: when one of us is hurting, all of us respond.

If you'd like to help Mayra or contribute to her recovery, every little bit helps. Even small gestures make a big difference when someone is rebuilding their life from scratch.

Thank you to everyone who's shown up for Mayra. This is Laurel at its absolute best.

If you haven't been to Blaze Pizza lately, it's time to give them another visit. Under new ownership and management for the past three years, this Town Centre staple has undergone a serious transformation—and locals are taking notice. Better customer service, a cleaner dining experience, and noticeably improved food quality have turned this fast-casual spot into a reliable go-to for families.

The menu has evolved too. New signature pizzas like the Spicy Pepperoni and Blazed BBQ bring fresh flavors to the table, and their Cinnamon Bread dessert has quickly become a fan favorite. But here's the real winner: the "5 for $35" family deal gets you three build-your-own 11-inch pizzas plus your choice of two sides (salads, meatballs, cheesy bread, or dessert). In 2025, feeding a family for $35 is practically unheard of—this deal delivers serious value.

Location matters, too, and Blaze Pizza nailed it. Right in front of Regal Cinema, they're perfectly positioned for dinner before catching a movie or a quick bite after the credits roll. With big releases like "Avatar: Fire and Ash" hitting theaters soon and hours from 11 AM to 10 PM daily, it's the convenient choice that actually tastes good. Sometimes, businesses deserve a second chance—and Blaze Pizza has earned it.

📍 Blaze Pizza | Town Centre at Laurel | Open 11 AM - 10 PM Daily

Major news for our community! Howard County has officially broken ground on a new homeless shelter in North Laurel, marking a significant step forward in addressing homelessness in our region.

This facility will provide emergency shelter, supportive services, and a pathway to stability for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. It represents years of planning, community input, and commitment to ensuring everyone in our area has access to safe shelter.

Homelessness is a complex issue that requires compassionate, comprehensive solutions. This shelter will offer more than just a roof—it will provide case management, connections to social services, job training resources, and support to help people transition to permanent housing.

The timing of this groundbreaking is particularly meaningful as we approach the holidays and the coldest months of the year. Having a place where our most vulnerable neighbors can find warmth, safety, and support isn't just good policy—it's who we are as a community.

Exciting development news! Cole's Manor, a new residential development, is coming to West Laurel, bringing fresh housing options to our growing community.

This development represents continued investment in Laurel's future. As our city grows, thoughtful development that adds housing while respecting the character of existing neighborhoods is crucial. New homes mean new neighbors, new families choosing to make Laurel their home, and continued vitality for our community.

For prospective buyers looking to move to Laurel, Cole's Manor offers another option in an increasingly competitive housing market. For current residents, it's a sign that Laurel continues to be a desirable place to live.

Welcome to the neighborhood, future Cole's Manor residents!

Our community photo spotlight continues! Each edition, we feature a photo from a Laurel resident that captures the beauty and spirit of our town.

Cynthia's stunning photograph, which she titled "Fire in the Sky," captures a breathtaking sunset that transformed the Laurel sky into a canvas of brilliant colors. Those magical moments when the sun sets and the sky erupts in shades of orange, pink, and gold—they remind us to pause, look up, and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding us every day.

Congratulations, Cynthia! Thanks for showing us your Laurel.

Want to be featured? Email your photos to [email protected] with the subject line "Show Us Your Laurel" and you might appear in an upcoming edition!

The countdown to Christmas is on! From holiday traditions to community service opportunities, here's what's happening around Laurel THIS WEEK (December 16-22):

Teen Trip: National Christmas Tree & Hard Rock Cafe 📅 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM 📍 Departs from Robert J. DiPietro Community Center | Laurel Parks & Rec takes teens to see the National Christmas Tree in DC, followed by dinner at Hard Rock Cafe! A festive evening of holiday lights and good food with friends.

December Networking Happy Hour 📅 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM 📍 Social Tailwaggers, 154 Lafayette Ave #J, Laurel, MD | Local professionals, let's connect! This networking happy hour brings together Laurel business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals for casual conversation and relationship building. Bring business cards, make connections, and support the local business community over drinks and appetizers.

LVFD Blood Drive 📅 1:30 PM to 6 PM 📍 Laurel Volunteer Fire Department, 7411 Cherry Ln, Laurel, MD | Give the gift of life this holiday season! LVFD hosts a blood drive to help ensure hospitals have the blood supply they need. Donating blood takes about an hour and can save up to three lives. Roll up your sleeves and be a hero!

Homeless Persons' Memorial Day 📅 2:00 PM 📍 Laurel Multiservice Center, 204 Fort Meade Rd, Laurel, MD | On the longest night of the year, communities across the country pause to remember those who died while experiencing homelessness. This solemn observance honors their lives, acknowledges the tragedy of homelessness, and recommits us to doing better as a community.

Krampus Nightmare at Laurel Haunt 📅 7 PM to 10 PM 📍 Laurel’s House of Horrors, 904 Fairlawn Ave, Laurel, MD | Think the holidays are all sugar plums and candy canes? Think again. The Laurel Haunt is bringing back Krampus Nightmare for those who prefer their December with a little more... darkness. This holiday horror experience isn't for the faint of heart!

A Charlie Brown Christmas with the Eric Byrd Trio 📅 2 PM📍 Montpelier Cultural Arts Center, 9652 Muirkirk Rd, Laurel, MD | Experience the timeless music of "A Charlie Brown Christmas" performed live by the Eric Byrd Trio! The beloved Vince Guaraldi jazz score comes to life in this special holiday performance. Perfect for jazz lovers and Charlie Brown fans alike!

Flash Mob Swing Dance 📅 12 PM to 1 PM📍 Savage Mill, 8600 Foundry St, Savage, MD | Surprise! A flash mob swing dance is happening! Whether you join in or just watch the fun, this spontaneous dance celebration is sure to bring smiles. Keep your eyes open—you never know where it might pop up!

Menorah Lighting & "The Great Chanukah Gelt Drop!" 📅 5 PM 📍 Laurel Branch Library, 507 7th St, Laurel, MD | Celebrate Hanukkah with community! Join for the menorah lighting ceremony followed by "The Great Chanukah Gelt Drop"—a fun tradition where chocolate coins rain down for children to collect. Music, latkes, and holiday joy for all!

Blue Christmas: A Service of Remembrance and Hope 📅 5 PM 📍 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 7607 Old Sandy Spring Rd, Laurel, MD | A service of remembrance and hope for those experiencing grief during the holidays. The holiday season isn't joyful for everyone—this gentle, contemplative service offers comfort and community for those who need it most.

2nd Annual Laurel Lights Walk 📅 6:30 PM 📍 LARS, 309 Laurel Ave, Laurel, MD | Join the LARS staff as they lead a 2 mile walk around Historic Laurel to view their favorite holiday lights. Followed by hot chocolate and cookies with the staff.

Photos with Santa 📅 4 PM to 5:30 PM 📍 Partnership Hall, 811 5th St, Laurel, MD | Get those last-minute holiday card photos! Santa returns right before Christmas for one more photo session. Bring your own camera/phone. Free event!

Holiday Movie: Elf 📅 6 PM 📍 Partnership Hall, 811 5th St, Laurel, MD | Cozy up for a free screening of "Elf"! Bring blankets, pillows and your holiday spirit. The perfect way to wind down before Christmas!

Looking beyond Christmas? Here are 2 upcoming events to kick off the new year!

Inaugural Kwanzaa Showcase 📅 5 PM to 7 PM📍 Carroll Baldwin Hall, 9035 Baltimore St, Savage, MD | Celebrate Kwanzaa at this inaugural community showcase! This event honors African American culture, heritage and the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Join the celebration with performances, vendors, food and community connection.

Gardens Ice House: New Year's Day Free Skate Session 📅 8 AM to 10 AM 📍 Gardens Ice House, 13800 Old Gunpowder Rd, Laurel, MD | Start the new year on ice! The Gardens Ice House offers a FREE skate session on New Year's Day. Whether you're an experienced skater or trying it for the first time, it's a fun, active way to kick off 2026. Skate rentals available. Bring the family and glide into the new year!

Thanks for reading this week’s edition. This week reminded us that being a community means showing up—for first responders when emergencies strike, for neighbors who've lost their homes, for those experiencing homelessness, and for each other during both celebrations and struggles.

Got an event, story tip, or business we should feature? Just hit reply—I read every response.

See you next week!

— Mike Mondy
Founder, I❤️LAUREL

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