Hagerstown Publishing 6 N. East St., Suite 301 Frederick, MD 21701
SEND MAIL TO: P.O. Box 2415 Hagerstown, MD 21741
Laura Forrest Hopfauf
Charles Jeffries
Erin Jones
Deborah Smith-Fiola
“What is better, a Will or a Revocable Trust?”
Last Will and Testament Pros:
• You decide who will be in charge of your final affairs, not the government.
• You decide who will be your beneficiaries, not Maryland’s intestacy laws.
• A Will can likely avoid an expensive Bond qualification process.
• Cheaper initially…
Cons:
• A Will is going to go through the probate process.
• The probate process is very expensive and unnecessary, if planned ahead.
• Even with the help of a lawyer, the family has to go through a nightmare of government bureaucracy and red tape while grieving.
• The probate process causes delays in asset distribution, leaving beneficiaries in financial uncertainty.
• Unlike Revocable Trusts, Will and the entire probate process become public record to anyone with an internet access.
Revocable Trust Pros:
• Probate Avoidance. Assets held in a Revocable Trust avoid probate, the lengthy legal process of validating a Will and administering an Estate. The Revocable Trust can save your family a lot of time, hassle and money associated with the probate process of your Estate, also allowing beneficiaries to receive their inheritance more quickly.
• Privacy. Because assets in a Revocable Trust avoid probate, their administration generally does not require oversight from the courts, and can be handled privately.
• Security. A Revocable Trust is effective immediately after the signing, allowing someone else to serve on your behalf if you are ever unable to do so yourself.
• Control. Revocable Trusts can allow for greater control over asset distribution. You can specify detailed instructions and customize distributions to meet individual needs. This feature is especially useful for those with minor/young adult beneficiaries, or beneficiaries who have special needs.
• If you have real estate or a timeshare outside of Maryland, a separate probate case has to be initiated in that other state unless that property is retitled to your Revocable Trust.
Cons:
• Cost. The cost of creating a Revocable Trust is more expensive initially.
• Funding. A Revocable Trust is only effective if assets are properly transferred into it. Failure to fund the Revocable Trust correctly may result in some assets still being subject to probate. If you need help protecting your money and loved ones in the event of death or disability, call us at 301-969-9364 or self-schedule online at www.lenaclarklegal.com.
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Bill
Platoon
36 World Food Tour
As Hagerstown continues to grow, its options for international cuisine continue to expand. Residents can dine on almost any continent without needing a passport or packing a suitcase.
48 Veteran’s Tribute
Hagerstown resident Jim Garrett has many family members buried at Arlington National Cemeterey, and he knows the stories of many more soldiers who rest there. He give tours and tells stories of America’s greatest veterans.
A group of local residents makes
The
THE WORLD OF FOOD
WE’RE ALL FOODIES TO ONE EXTENT OR ANOTHER. I MEAN WE ALL NEED TO EAT, RIGHT? FOR ME, I LOVE TO COOK, AND I’LL OFTEN GET A DISH AT A LOCAL RESTAURANT AND TRY TO DISSECT IT SO I CAN MAKE IT AT HOME. MY PROBLEM IS I’M NOT GOOD AT MATCHING FLAVORS AND SPICES. MY OTHER PROBLEM IS THAT I’M NOT AS CULINARILY ADVENTUROUS AS I SHOULD BE.
So, as I worked with writer April Bartel on this month’s cover story, I realized there’s so much out there in the local culinary world that I haven’t dared to try, so my life as a foodie is very incomplete.
I tend to gravitate to the French and Italian restaurants, knowing full well I’m passing by dozens of restaurants where owners from other continents have brought their local recipes and are creating great traditional food from their homelands.
In the article, Bartel bounces from continent to continent, all without leaving Washington County. She writes about some long-established ethnic restaurants and uncovers lesser-known gems—all of which are worth a try.
November brings in the holiday season, but this year we decided to focus on Veteran’s Day. Hagerstown resident Jim Garrett has worked at Arlington National Cemetery as a historian and tour guide. His love of the military and history led him to dive into the lives of many of the 400,000 servicemen who have found their final resting place in America’s cemetery.
Writer Lisa Gregory spent time with Garrett, who revealed some interesting stories about his family and about some of the other soldiers laid to rest in the cemetery.
We also look at the work being done by a group called Platoon 22, which has rebuilt a historic house on Mulberry Street in Hagerstown to give veterans a place to transition into mainstream life. Platoon 22 is a nonprofit organization committed to combating the veteran suicide epidemic and supporting veterans in their transition to civilian life.
We hope you enjoy the issue. –JeffThoreson jthoreson@hagerstownmag.com
This is Washington County
COWS, CATS, AND LIFE ON THE FARM
A farm cat perches near a Jersey cow who recently gave birth at Shenandoah Jerseys, a dairy which milks registered Jersey cows in Boonsboro. The farm is owned by Janet Fulton, whose daughter Jessica Stiles Hess and son-in-law J.R. Hess manage the herd and farm. Conservation practices at Shenandoah Jerseys, which manages about 750 acres near Antietam Creek, includes two waste storage facilities and stream fencing to exclude cattle from the water. Photo by Will Parson of the Chesapeake Bay Program.
South Mountain Legends
New book explores the Snallygaster and more
BEYOND LOCAL CIRCLES, THE MYTH OF THE Snallygaster may be one of Maryland’s best-kept secrets. “I remember when I moved here and first heard about it, I was surprised,” says Ken Houldsworth, a resident of Middletown who hosts the G Fedora’s Fedora Files podcast and authored the book series Happy Little Monsters. “You hear about Mothman, the Jersey Devil, Bigfoot [but not the Snallygaster],” he continues.
Houldsworth is the author of the new book Blood and Beak: Legends of the South Mountain Terror, a compilation of fictional short stories and poems about the Snallygaster. Each entry is based on his own research, including newspaper reports. “Sometimes it’s just a paragraph or two,” he says. “I thought why not embellish and create a whole story?”
The myth of the Snallygaster originated with German immigrants who settled at the foot of South Mountain in the 1700s. They called the monster Schneller Geist, meaning quick ghost. “It’s this ghostly spirit with wings like a dragon, and it’s quick moving and it’ll get you in the night,” says Houldsworth.
Ken Houldsworth tracks the trail of the legendary Snallygaster. The mythological winged creature, rooted in the culture of German immigrants, is said to terrorize South Mountain and the valley below.
Through the decades there were those who claimed to have killed Snallygasters. Some even tried to make insurance claims that the Snallygaster had destroyed their barns or other property.
“The moonshiners played into it,” says Houldsworth. “One of the things that became part of the Snallygaster legend was that it would make a whistling noise before it attacked. The moonshiners were saying that because the moonshine still would huff, producing a whistle-like sound as it boiled. So, to try and keep people away they would say, ‘Hey, that’s a Snallygaster.’ In that way they added to the myth.”
Houldsworth’s book Blood and Beak: Legends of the South Mountain Terror is a compilation of fictional short stories and poems about the Snallygaster, including a tale about the creature raising the ire of President Theodore Roosevelt.
The disappearance of three local moonshiners earned the attention of President Theodore Roosevelt, according to Houldsworth. “It was in all the newspapers, even The New York Times,” he says. “It was a big
deal and people were claiming a monster killed the moonshiners.”
Roosevelt, a staunch conservationist but also a big game hunter, decided to take down the Snallygaster himself, Houldsworth says. “He was going to come out to Middletown, out to South Mountain, and kill the Snallygaster for killing Americans,” he says. “You don’t go kill Americans when Teddy Roosevelt is around.” But before Roosevelt could set foot on South Mountain, the three “deceased” moonshiners were found.
“Some people think maybe [Roosevelt] actually came out,” says Houldsworth, “hunted it down and went with the story of, ‘Oh, they were killed by a distillery explosion,’ because it would be too much for Americans to think, ‘Oh my gosh, there’s a monster killing people,’ you know?”
Many people took precautions against the Snallygaster. In his short story The Witch-Binder of South Mountain, Houldsworth writes about Micheal Zittle, a purported wizard who lived on South Mountain in the 19th century. People would have Zittle “come out and put hexes on their land to keep the darkness from coming onto their property,” he says.
Houldsworth was able to locate Zittle’s final resting place in a cemetery in Boonsboro. “He felt that you should never profit off of magic,” says Houldsworth. “And he ended up dying in poverty. “
The short stories and poems in Blood and Beak follow a timeline from the original appearance of the mythical beast in local folklore to modern encounters. Houldsworth hopes to inspire curiosity about the monster, as well as Maryland history and folklore.
“I want to keep the myth alive and maybe even add to it, just let it continue to grow,” he says. “And maybe if people want to start researching and getting information on their own, that’s great, too. It keeps the people interested in it.”
He concludes, “The Snallygaster is Frederick’s story. It’s our story.”
—Lisa Gregory
On the Right Track
THIS SUMMER’S OPENING OF HITACHI RAIL’S NEXT-GEN FACTORY brings more jobs, an expanded tax base, and yet another shot in the arm to the resurging Hagerstown and Washington County economy.
“The overall economy in Hagerstown and Washington County has been on an upward trajectory for the last five years,” says Paul Frey, president and CEO of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. “We have added much needed warehouse and distribution businesses, a state-of-the-art baseball and multi-use facility, an outstanding indoor fieldhouse, and a new medical school, the Meritus School of Osteopathic Medicine.
“Now, add to all these outstanding additions to the local economy the recent opening of the Hitachi plant. The addition of many new jobs and the increase in the local and state tax base from the $350 million investment by Hitachi is yet another win for our local economy.”
With contracts serving the Washington, D.C. region, Baltimore, and Philadelphia, the $100 million carbon-neutral facility is expected to bring 460 jobs to the area when the plant is fully ramped up.
The plant, capable of delivering 20 railcars per month for North American customers, includes more than $30 million invested in digital enhancements and showcases the Hitachi Group’s powerful digital and transformative technologies for both the rail sector and broader industrial applications. And it will do so in an environmentally sensitive way. The 307,000 square-foot site operates with zero landfill waste.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore called the plant a major milestone in the partnership between Hitachi and the state of Maryland.
“Hitachi Rail’s new Hagerstown factory will not only create hundreds of jobs and power the region’s transit infrastructure with railcars equipped with cutting-edge technology, but it affirms Maryland’s position as a premier location for global investment in the industries of the future,” he said.
Toshiaki Higashihara, president and CEO of Hitachi, says the Hagerstown factory showcases the unique strengths of the Hitachi Group by
integrating manufacturing expertise and digital and AI technologies across a wide range of business domains.
“We will deliver ever greater value to our customers and society by addressing infrastructure and mobility challenges in the United States,” he said.
Hitachi broke ground in March of 2022 and the first railcar has now rolled off the assembly line. The company has a $2.2 billion contract with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority. WMATA CEO and general manager, Randy Clarke, says the incredible technology of the plant will help Metro focus on continuous customer improvement and innovation.
“It’s great to have a partner like Hitachi that embraces technology and invests capital dollars in state-of-the-art infrastructure like this facility to transform the future of transit for this region and North America,” he said.
The plant on Halfway Boulevard officially opened on Sept. 8.
—Charles Jeffries
Experience the Rails
The new Hitachi factory features a Customer Experience Center where visitors can take part in interactive experiences with Hitachi’s AI capabilities and actually see what it’s like to operate a subway train.
There are also demonstrations of an AI system to direct waiting passengers to least-crowded areas of an arriving train, an avatar that answers spoken questions about Hitachi products and services, and a small video theater.
The $300 million Hitachi Rail plant on Halfway Boulevard. Photo by Mark Youngblood
AEK is focused on providing Sales/Leasing services in the tri-state region. We have been operating in various capacities within the Real Estate industry since 2002. We are here to help. Give Corey a call or stop by. Our doors are always up!
A New Chapter in Williamsport
WHEN LOCAL OFFICIALS AND DIGNITARIES GATHER FOR THE dedication of the renovated Springfield Manor this month, the quiet town of Williamsport, it will be more than just the opening of another renovated historic building. It will be a symbol of renewal for the entire community.
After nearly a decade of effort, the homestead of town founder Otho Holland Williams has been brought into public ownership and will be another step in the exciting future of Williamsport as it becomes a place for learning, gathering, and exploring.
The estate, perched just outside the town limits, has long been a historical gem. Built in the 1800s, the estate once hosted community events, seasonal festivals, and served as a bed-and-breakfast that attracted tourists from throughout the region. But when it was shuttered due to structural and financial challenges, Williamsport lost more than a landmark—it lost a piece of its identity.
That’s all changing as local entrepreneurs, in partnership with state preservation grants and private investors, have restored the manor with care and purpose. The revamped Springfield Manor will serve as a multipurpose venue—part event space, part winery, and part historical museum.
The reopening is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the town. Already, new jobs have been created—from construction crews during the restoration phase to the hospitality staff now being trained to run the daily operations. Local vendors, artisans, and farms are also being brought in to supply everything from fresh produce to
handmade crafts. For a town of just over 2,000 residents, Springfield Manor will be a centerpiece everyone can be proud of.
Tourism is also projected to see a boost. With its prime location near the C&O Canal and proximity to Hagerstown and the greater Washington, D.C., area, Springfield Manor is expected to attract daytrippers, weekend visitors, and history buffs. The town’s businesses, from local diners to small hotels and B&Bs to antique shops, are hoping to see increased foot traffic. The town already has a steady stream of events scheduled at the manor through the spring.
But beyond the economic uplift, the reopening carries emotional weight. Local residents remember Springfield Manor as the heart of Williamsport, and many say seeing it come back to life is another indication that the town is moving forward without forgetting its history.
In November, the grand reopening will be marked by a three-day community celebration featuring live music, local food vendors, guided tours, and a historical exhibit chronicling the manor’s legacy. Proceeds from the event will go toward funding youth programs and preserving other historic sites in the area.
In a time when many small towns struggle to find footing in a fast-changing world, Williamsport’s revival of Springfield Manor shows what’s possible when history is honored, community is prioritized, and vision meets opportunity. This November, the doors of Springfield Manor will be open wide—not just to welcome guests, but to usher in a brighter future for the town it calls home.
—Charles Jeffries
“What
exactly does the Government shutdown mean? And what should we expect from the stock market during and after the shutdown?”
J. K. - Jefferson, MD
A:A government shutdown can sound alarming, but here’s what it really means:
Federal offices may close or reduce hours, and “non-essential” services pause.
Some federal workers may face furloughs or delayed pay, while places such as national parks and museums may shut their doors.
At the same time, many essential services continue, including Social Security and mail delivery.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Federal offices close or reduce hours
• “Non-essential” services paused
• Some federal workers are furloughed or paid late
• National parks and museums closed
Services like Social Security and mail continue
It’s a moment that can cause disruption, but it doesn’t mean everything stops. We’ll be keeping an eye on these developments as they unfold.
During times like a government shutdown, market historians will look back to see what has happened in the months and years following a resolution to the event. The accompanying chart shows you what has happened in the stock market during the 100 days and one year after a shutdown. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
THE BASIC STRUCTURES OF SOUTH POTOMAC STREET IN HAGERSTOWN HAVEN’T CHANGED MUCH OVER THE DECADES, although the accompaniments have. There are trees now, the cars are much newer, the electrical and telephone lines are consolidated or moved, but the steeple of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church remains the dominant element of the street in the downtown area. St. John’s was established in 1770 with a log church, but the congregation grew rapidly, and construction began on the present brick structure in 1795. It was completed in 1806. The bell tower was used as a lookout post by Union Gen. Oliver Howard during the Civil War.
Family-Owned Dispensary, KOAN Cannabis Opens in Hagerstown with Price Match Guarantee
Brothers Adam and Sassan Shaool, of Washco Companies, have opened KOAN, a new family-owned medical and recreational cannabis dispensary at 10306 Ezra Drive, Hagerstown, MD 21740.
The Shaool brothers, well-known local entrepreneurs and developers, are bringing a new kind of cannabis retail experience to Washington County, one that blends convenience, community, and education-driven service.
KOAN offers a shopping experience to fit every customer’s needs. Guests can choose their preferred path from a convenient drive-thru, to an in-store visit featuring 12 self-service kiosks and personalized assistance from our knowledgeable and passionate Budtenders. Whether ordering ahead online or browsing in person, the goal remains the same: to make every visit “as pleasant as the product you’re buying,” says Owner Adam Shaool.
“Customers shouldn’t have to wait in long lines or feel rushed,” Shaool said. “Our drive-thru and multiple kiosks are designed for efficiency and ease while keeping customer care front and center.”
KOAN offers one of the largest selections of cannabis products in the Hagerstown area, with a thoughtfully sourced product list to meet every need and experience level. The dispensary carries:
• Cannabis Flower
• Pre-Rolls
• Concentrates & Vapes
• Edibles & Beverages
• Topicals & Capsules
• Accessories and More
Products are thoughtfully curated to meet both medical and recreational needs, with trained Budtenders available to guide customers through product effects and consumption methods. “Our approach to education and customer service centers on helping you find the perfect product for your needs. Whether you’re seeking energy, calm,
focus, or restful relaxation,” explained Shaool.
To simplify product selection, KOAN organizes its cannabis products into five distinct categories: Activate, Uplift, Equalize, Unwind, Rest helping customers navigate the wide range of options.
Beyond product selection, KOAN emphasizes value and affordability for all consumers . The shop offers monthly brand promotions, daily sales, and a price match policy, ensuring customers always get the best deal available. Furthermore, KOAN also offers their own Zenefits Loyalty Program, a pointbased rewards system offering exclusive event access, birthday surprises, and member discounts.
KOAN is licensed to serve both medical patients and adult-use recreational customers. Designated parking spots and registers are available for medical marijuana patients, ensuring privacy and efficiency for prescription pickups. Customers must be 21 or older to purchase recreational cannabis products. Medical patients under 21 may visit with their registered caregiver.
With its family-owned roots, modern amenities, and community-first approach, KOAN represents a new era of cannabis retail in Maryland. The Shaool brothers say they hope to make KOAN a place where education, access, and affordability meet.
“KOAN isn’t just about selling cannabis,” said Shaool. “It’s about creating a peaceful, informed, and welcoming experience for everyone, whether you’re new to cannabis or a longtime patient.”
For more information or to browse products, visit www.koandispensary.com
A ‘Taste of Senior Living’ OF NOTE |
CHEFS FROM SEVEN AREA SENIOR RESIDENTIAL LIVING communities vied for the “Silver Spoon” award and bragging rights as Homewood Living Williamsport hosted the first “Taste of Senior Living” event.
Organized to benefit Washington County CARES, more than 150 guests, judges, and participants sampled tastings in three categories: Best Appetizer, Best Entrée, and Best Dessert. The friendly competition involved teams from Brookdale Hagerstown, Celebration Villa of Martinsburg, Golden Girls Assisted Living, Homewood Living Williamsport, Seaton Hagerstown, Somerford House and Place, Viva Senior Living, and Potomac Community Services.
“This was tons of tasty fun and raised awareness for the work that the CARES group quietly performs for our region,” said Steve Luber, community liaison for Right at Home, one of the evening’s sponsors.
Attendees cast their votes to determine their favorites from each category as they sampled everything from “local” steamers to Maryland crab cakes. And, local celebrity Lou Scally, Hagerstown Magazine’s food writer April Bartel, and Homewood Residents Association president Karen Howser were the official judges.
The winners were:
Best Appetizer: Crab Poppers, Celebration Villa, Martinsburg, Chef Matt Perrault
Best Entrée: Delectable Trio, Somerford House and Place, Chef Charlotte Johnson
Crab poppers was the winning appetizer in the first “Taste of Senior Living” event.
Best Dessert: Lemon Truffles, Golden Girls Assisted Living, Chef Terry Tillman
The Silver Spoon was awarded to Somerford House and Place for most outstanding offerings overall.
BAILEY KERCHEVAL HAS BEEN APPOINTED EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AT THE MARYLAND THEATRE.
Kercheval brings more than a decade of leadership experience in the arts and education sector, most recently serving as chief operating officer of Sloan School of Music. In his six-year tenure, he helped grow the school’s reach and impact within the community.
“I am honored to join the Maryland Theatre and contribute to its extraordinary legacy,” Kercheval says. “I look forward to working alongside the talented staff, board, and community to expand its cultural impact while honoring its historic mission.”
MERITUS HEALTH HAS BEEN NAMED TO THE FORBES LIST OF America’s Best-In-State Employers 2025. It is the third time in four years Meritus has made the list.
“We are honored to receive this recognition and are deeply proud of the incredible team we have at Meritus,” said Maulik
THE AWARD-WINNING PBS DOCUMENTARY, “THE HOUSE ON Jonathan Street”, has received a Silver Award from the Paris Film Awards in the Best Feature Documentary category.
The film chronicles the rise, fall, and rise again of the Hagerstown African American neighborhood. Hagerstown, the site of significant events in American history, including the Battle of Antietam and John Brown’s Farm, housed a prosperous mid-
Joshi, Dr.P.H., president and CEO of Meritus. “This award reflects our ongoing dedication to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered. We believe that when our employees thrive, our patients and our community thrive.”
dle-class African American community in and around Jonathan, dubbed “The Black Wall Street” of Maryland. The travails of the neighborhood, and the surrounding Hagerstown community, offer a glimpse into American history over the past 300 years. Local events are put into national context, and national events are shown with their local impact.
The film is now available on Amazon.
CALENDAR
november to december
November
15
November
1
Fall Back—Cider, Spirits & Winefest/Brunch Fest
Washington County Agricultural Center
7313 SHARPSBURG PIKE,
BOONSBORO
This is two events in one with more than 130 varieties of regional libations represented by more than 25 combined wineries, cideries, distilleries, and breweries. All alcohol samples are included in your admission with your festival tasting glass. Take part in numerous games and contests, browse and shop from dozens of vendors, and chow down on some scrumptious grub from the best local food vendors. 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. 301-259-1991or www.ifg-events.com/fallback
That Motown Band: Motown in Your Town
Maryland Theatre
21 SOUTH
POTOMAC STREET, HAGERSTOWN
Joining the Motown Band is Garfield Fleming, soul singing vocalist of legendary status who was a member of The Delfonics for 25 years with William Hart. Fleming’s obvious resemblance to David Ruffin makes people look twice, but when he sings fans get lost in time. He sounds just like Bobby Womack, David Ruffin and can also perform the songs of many legendary artists. In 1981 Fleming released a single “Please Don’t Send Me Away”, which is still played all over the world. He gained much of his fame as a solo artist with that song. He is currently touring the world and is heard on stations in every country. 7:30 p.m. 301-790-3500 or www.mdtheatre.org
December 20-21
Home for the Holidays 2025
Maryland Theatre
21 SOUTH POTOMAC STREET, HAGERSTOWN
Celebrate the holiday season at the Maryland Theatre in Hagerstown with an evening of festive music and cheer. Home for the Holidays is a beloved tradition that brings families and friends together to enjoy classic holiday songs and the joy of the season. The Maryland Symphony Orchestra will perform timeless favorites, including Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride,” along with a special sing-along led by Santa Claus. This heartwarming concert will feature special guests performing alongside the orchestra. Saturday 7 p.m.; Sunday 3 p.m. 301-790-3500 or www.mdtheatre.org
November 1
Jah Works: Reggae
Live at Hub City Vinyl
28 EST BALTIMORE STREET, HAGERSTOWN
Jah Works is a true grassroots success story that emerged from Baltimore’s reggae scene more than 20 years ago. This is music made by and for lovers of authentic reggae music. Consistently performing hundreds of shows a year worldwide, they have forged their sound in clubs, festivals, and on the sundrenched beaches of Negril. 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. www. liveathubcityvinyl.com
November 14
Culture & Cocktails: Halfway African American Cemetery
Miller House Museum
135 WEST WASHINGTON STREET, HAGERSTOWN
Suzanne Trussell from the Allegany County Historical Society in Cumberland will share her experience working with archaeology and anthropology projects in Western Maryland. This month’s cocktail is the Fireball Cider Bomb, a festive blend of Fireball cinnamon whiskey, apple cider, and grenadine. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and light hors d’oeuvres will be served. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. 301-797-8782 or www.washcohistory.org
November 29
Hagerstown Model Railroad Museum Train Sale
Washington County Agricultural Education Center
7313 SHARPSBURG PIKE, BOONSBORO
This show is the fall sales event featuring model trains and railroad collectibles. The location is along Rt. 65 (I-70 Exit 29) about 6.5 miles south of the Hagerstown Outlets and three miles north of the Antietam National Battlefield. There is plenty of parking. 9 a.m.to 1:30 p.m. www.antietamstation.com
November 23
Rend Collective Folk! Tour
Maryland Theatre
21 SOUTH POTOMAC STREET, HAGERSTOWN
Hailing from a small town off the coast of Northern Ireland, Rend Collective wants to be known as a celebration band, worshiping for God’s glory and fame. Since the release of their first album, Organic Family Hymnal, the group’s authentic and energetic style of worship has attracted an international audience, with career sales of more than 300,000 albums. The group saw early success as their first single “Build Your Kingdom Here,” peaked at No. 12 on the National Christian Audience chart. 7 p.m. 301-790-3500 or www.mdtheatre.org
December 5-7
Williamsport Christkindlmarkt
Kelly Moore Sheds 17051 VIRGINIA AVENUE, WILLIAMSPORT
Outdoor three-day German style Christmas market on the shed lot of Kelly Moore Sheds & Marketplace. More than 30 vendors, music, food, St. Nicholas, and more. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. 240-513-6996 or www.kellymooresheds.com
December 6
The Seldom Scene
Live at Hub City Vinyl 28 EAST BALTIMORE STREET, HAGERSTOWN
Since they started together in 1971, The Seldom Scene has dexterously performed original and traditional songs while presenting fiery and soulful reinterpretations of material by Merle Haggard, James Taylor, and more. The concept of bluegrass unshackling itself from a conservative, straight-ahead mindset seems like a given now, when some of its biggest stars fill stadiums and cross over with mainstream audiences. But the continued presence of the Scene acts as a reminder that it wasn’t always so. 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. www.liveathubcityvinyl.com
Hagerstown Model Railroad Museum Train Sale
Rend Collective Folk! Tour
november to december
December 13
Holiday Sip & Stroll
Downtown Waynesboro 13 WEST MAIN STREET, WAYNESBORO, PA
Sample the spirits while you stroll the wide sidewalks of downtown Waynesboro.
More than a dozen local and regional producers will be handing out samples that are sure to put a twinkle in your eye. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 717-762-0397 or www.mainstreetwaynesboro.org
December 13 Craft Bazaar
Fort Ritchie Community Center 14421 LAKE ROYER DRIVE, CASCADE
Each craft bazaar features more than 60 vendor spaces, bringing unique items from home decor to holiday gifts, homemade candles, food, and children’s toys. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 301-241-5085 or www.thefrcc.org
Holiday Sip & Stroll
December 13-14
The Nutcracker
Maryland Theatre
21 SOUTH POTOMAC STREET, HAGERSTOWN
The Western Maryland City Ballet Company and The City Ballet School present this stunning classic ballet. Experience the magic of ballet this holiday season as you join Clara on her enchanted journey to the land of sweets. The Nutcracker features a full cast of 100 dancers, brilliant theatrical magic, and elaborate costume and set designs. Saturday 7 p.m.; Sunday 3 p.m. 301-790-3500 or www.mdtheatre.org
December 31
Krumpe’s Donut Drop
City Square
10 PUBLIC SQUARE, HAGERSTOWN
Don’t miss the fun, outside on the square with free AC&T coffee and hot chocolate and, of course, free Krumpe’s donuts to the first 5,000 people. Thanks to Middletown Valley Bank for sponsoring this year’s fireworks and sending the year out with a bang. We hope you’ll make the Krumpe’s Donut Drop the first stop for your New Year’s Eve plans. Be sure to stop by downtown restaurants and shops that will be having specials in honor of the big event. 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. 301-791-1221 or www.krumpesdonuts.com
The Nutcracker
History and the Future
The on-going revival of Fort Ritchie is preserving history while bringing new life to an old Army installation
By Erin Jones
For more than 50 years Fort Ritchie was closely guarded by mountains, stone-turreted gates, and secrecy. The 638-acre Army installation in Washington County, tucked just beneath the Pennsylvania border, served as the World War II training site for the interrogators and psychological warfare experts who became known as the Ritchie Boys. By the time information about the Ritchie Boys became declassified, the facility had fallen into disrepair. It was closed in 1998 under a military base realignment.
Now, thanks to a multi-year revival project, the grounds are not only open to the public but becoming a vibrant community once more. Both developers and historians are working hard to preserve and honor the rich history that unfolded within the gates.
The sun sets behind a mountain near Fort Ritchie, where the 35 finger buildings have been renovated.
Named for former Maryland Gov. Albert C. Ritchie, Camp Ritchie opened in 1926 as a Maryland National Guard summer training facility. Under the design and direction of base engineer Robert Barrick, 300 men from Hagerstown built the facility.
When WWII began, the army leased the property and began recruiting trainees to the Military Intelligence Training Center at Camp Ritchie. While the moniker “Ritchie Boys” has become popularized, 200 Women’s Army Corps also played an important role in Fort Ritchie’s history.
Recruits trained at Fort Ritchie in skills like interrogating prisoners of war, battlefield intelligence, and intercepting enemy communications. David Frey, history professor and director of the Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies at the United States Military Academy at West Point, told “60 Minutes” in 2022 that more 60 percent of actionable intelligence gathered at the battlefield was obtained by Ritchie Boys.
Many of the Ritchie Boys were Austrian or German-speaking immigrants, often Jews who fled Nazi persecution, giving them a linguistic
advantage and insider knowledge into the nuances of the culture and mindset of the German soldiers.
The Ritchie History Museum seeks to preserve and recount those stories of heroism that were once a deeply guarded secret.
“Without their efforts we would possibly have still won the war, but it would have taken them much longer,” says museum director Katy Self. “I like to bring to light the sacrifices that they all made in service. We want to tell the stories of Fort Ritchie, but we can’t do that without telling the stories about veterans as well.”
Because the details of Fort Ritchie were classified for so many decades, Self often fields requests from families who suspect a loved one may have been at Fort Ritchie during their service in the war. Plans are underway to open Ritchie History Museum Research Center as an additional resource.
The Ritchie Museum is in the unique position of its historic preservation unfolding in real time as the Ritchie Revival is underway. As the buildings around the property are renovated, the Ritchie Revival construction
team will send photos and descriptions of what they find.
One day, paint scraped away revealed Gothic German writing that contained a reference to the Third Reich. Trees behind the Mountain Top Ice Cream shop were found to be riddled with bullets from the area’s former life as a utility field. Of course, many vintage cans of Old German beer have also been uncovered.
Old German beer is now served at the Top Secret Taproom. Situated just across the way from the museum, the taproom plays homage to the clandestine activities of the property’s former life and is an example of one the many ways the Ritchie Revival is injecting new life into the facility while honoring its rich history.
John Krumpotich, owner and president of Ritchie Revival, first learned of the Ritchie Boys at an event at the Fort Ritchie community center a decade ago. At the time, the community center was the only structure on the property that was still functioning. The rest of the property was abandoned and frequently vandalized. He noted how many structures of historic significance were covered over in vines or rusted. While Ritchie Revival would
The Castle is the most iconic building at Fort Ritchie. It was built in 1927 by the Maryland National Guard, for the purpose of a post headquarters. Today it is used by the Ritchie Revival team for meetings.
eventually be the name of the company, for Krumpotich and his wife Joyce, it became a rallying cry.
Ritchie Revival began in 2021 with the renovation of nearly 60 townhomes. Harman Automotive was the first business to open on the site, along with Mountain Top Ice Cream shop. Meritus Medical quickly followed, along with Greenhouse Café. Run by Krumpotich’s two daughters, the café occupies the 1920s home of Robert Barrick.
Informational signage outside the café, the white-steepled chapel, and many other notable landmarks were funded by the Delaplaine Foundation and allows visitors to appreciate
the historic significance of the many structures throughout the property.
Nearly all of the 35 pristinely uniform houses called the “finger buildings” have been renovated. While the majority are residential units, seven have been turned into little shops and storefronts. Visitors can browse easily between shops like holistic health and wellness store Apotheke Dujardin, Sweet Thyme Bakery, locally sourced general store Ritchie Rations, the Artisan Village at Fort Ritchie, and the Nisei Gallery.
Downhill from the shops, Tudor-inspired Lakeside Hall overlooks Lake Royer. Lakeside Hall is now a functional event venue. Discovery Station recently relocated to the property from Hagerstown to continue its mission to
“We want to tell the stories of Fort Ritchie, but we can’t do that without telling the stories about veterans as well.”
—KATY SELF
ignite a passion for learning science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). Future projects will include a nature center and a hotel.
In the meantime, Ritchie Revival works in collaboration with the Maryland Historic Trust, which must approve any changes to the property. While the supervision requires extra steps, Krumpotich says it helps keep the project grounded in history.
“The place speaks to history, not only from World War II. This place was an integral part in the U.S. winning World War II, but all of the military and civilians that came through this place, tens of thousands of people who had a great impact on the area,” Krumpotich said. “I still get goosebumps talking about it now.”
The Top Secret Taproomplays homage to the clandestine activities of Fort Ritchie’s former life.
The Nisei Gallery and Artisan Village.
A street-level view of the Fort Ritchie finger buildings.
Dignity on the Rise
Re-integrating into mainstream society after incarceration can be a daunting challenge, but a local organization offers help
In 2013 when Bill Gaertner was released from prison, he knew that he had more to give society. By 2014 he established Gatekeepers in Washington County with the goal of helping current and ex-offenders successfully transition back into their community.
Today Gatekeepers is a lifeline for individuals as they re-enter society from incarceration by providing support, building relationships, and helping with basic needs.
“We meet individuals where they are and offer personalized support. A full basic needs package costs about $5,000 for three months and may include a basic smartphone with insurance, clothing, hygiene supplies, bus passes, a backpack, and housing assistance,” says executive director Keith Roys. “The goal is to stabilize people so they can build forward momentum.”
By Laura Forrest Hopfauf
Anyone in Washington County can visit the Gatekeepers office at 223 North Prospect Street Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. or reach them anytime by email or phone if
Gatekeepers founder Bill Gaetner and outreach coordinator Julia Smoot. Photography by Mark Youngblood
they need help or know someone who does.
Every Saturday morning doors at Trinity Lutheran Church open at 9:30 for Gatekeeper’s weekly Resource Club meeting. The get-together regularly welcomes an average of 80 people who are returning citizens or in recovery and helps connect them with community resources like the Washington County Health Department, Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, CASA, and more to answer questions and provide training. Local employers and community housing providers are also present to talk about job openings and locations with available beds. But beyond all that, Gatekeepers and its resource meeting are a safe place for fellowship and growth for justice-involved individuals.
difference…we’re helping people stay home, thrive, and contribute to the local economy. They live, work, shop, vote, and worship right here in Washington County.”
Even inside Roxbury Correctional Institution in Hagerstown, Gatekeepers presents a weekly Business of Living program, a personal re-entry plan that prepares individuals to transition back into society.
“We help individuals identify their challenges and build a plan that addresses them,” Roys says. “These challenges might include no stable housing, lack of ID, debt, no job prospects, limited education, addiction, mental health concerns, and disconnection from family or support networks. Gatekeepers help tackle those issues head-on. We offer mentorship, resources, and community connections so individuals don’t feel like they’re facing the world alone.”
Reincarnation is a real and challenging problem, but Gatekeepers is actively combating that in Washington County.
“The county’s recidivism rate is around 40 percent, while the rate for individuals actively involved with Gatekeepers hoovers around 2 percent,” Roys says. “That’s a dramatic
In a world that isn’t full of second chances, Gatekeepers is making a difference in the lives of many by providing a safe haven and a plan forward along belief and dignity.
Julia Smoot, the outreach coordinator at Gatekeepers and a successful participant of Gatekeepers says, “when I came home from incarceration, I was overwhelmed. I didn’t know what my next step was supposed to be or how I would rebuild my life. That’s when I found Gatekeepers. They didn’t just offer help, they offered me a fresh start, a place where I could be seen for who I was becoming, not who I used to be. What impacted me most was the relationship. Gatekeepers believed in me when I wasn’t even sure I believed in myself. They reminded me that I still had something to give, that my story wasn’t over.”
Gatekeepers understands the value of the individual and looks beyond their past as they help them move forward in the world that often overlooks and undermines those who have served time in prison.
Darrell Briscoe, a participant of Gatekeepers who has successfully transitioned back into
society, says, “Beyond the practical help, what really stood out was mentorship. I had people who understood what I was going through because they had walked a similar path. They didn’t judge me. They supported me, held me accountable, and reminded me that I still had value. That meant everything. Gatekeepers didn’t just give me resources, they gave me a real chance to start over with dignity.”
Building a life outside of prison that lasts isn’t just about doing the right things, it’s about doing them for the right reasons. By building self-worth in individuals who have been stripped of it, Gatekeepers helps lift people so that they know they can make the right choices for themselves.
“Gatekeepers understands that reentry is about more than resources,” Smoot says. “It’s about rebuilding a life with dignity. They don’t just hand out items or make referrals. They walk with people. They show up. They offer accountability and care, rooted in real lived experiences. Organizations like Gatekeepers are proof that when you invest in people, they rise. I’m living proof. I went from incarceration to leadership. From needing help to offering help. And it’s all because someone believed in me long enough for me to start believing in myself.”
From left to right: Shane Mcgreger, Heather Tenly, Alva Moses, Trina Earl, Tonya Tate, Julia Smoot, and former Hagerstown mayor Tekesha Martinez. In front is founder Bill Gaertner.
ashington County might be best known for its abundant Civil War history sites, rolling farmland, railways, and industry, but in recent years it’s also become home to an impressive variety of international restaurants. From African fusion fare to Puerto Rican classics, from German schnitzel to Thai basil duck, local chefs are cooking up authentic tastes of home while introducing new flavors to curious diners.
Hagerstown Magazine’s Hot List includes fan favorites that show how wide-ranging the options have become. Here’s a tempting tour, no passport required.
Walk into Café Roma Ristorante on Railway Lane and you’ll quickly realize it’s not your average pizza joint. Owners Luis and Abraham Cruz, brothers with decades in the restaurant industry, pride themselves on serving authentic Southern Italian dishes prepared fresh. Their kitchen is known for making pasta from scratch daily.
“We don’t use anything frozen. All fresh,” Luis explains, noting that even the veal comes in whole legs for in-house preparation.
“Our chicken parm (a top seller) is loaded with mozzarella. People tell us you just can’t go wrong with it,” says Luis. Their menu leans toward seafood and classic southern staples like veal scaloppini, meaty lasagna, and indulgent Alfredo.
Café Roma’s roots start in Montgomery County, where their extended family still operates in other locations, but this is their first Hagerstown venture. The brothers wanted to fill a gap for refined, full-service Italian dining. There are extensive wine and cocktail lists, happy hour specials like burrata and calamari, as well as private dining rooms for parties and business events.
And while their stone-fired, thin-crust pizza is always available, it’s house specialties like fettuccine pescatore, rich spaghetti Bolognese, or delicate eggplant parmesan that keep regulars coming back.
Around the Mediterranean, Dolce Eastern European Restaurant & Pizza has its own devotees. Founder Julia Manea, originally from Romania, started this family business offering everything from generously topped pizzas to Romanian comfort dishes like
and pork, simmered for hours) and rustic Moldavian chicken. Their schnitzels and moussaka also point to the cultural crossroads of Eastern Europe. (Don’t miss the homemade donuts.)
North to Bavaria, Schmankerl Stube remains a downtown staple. Owner Dieter Blosel has long described the restaurant as a “destination,” drawing people for special occasions with hearty German hospitality. Friendly dirndl-clad servers, festive beer steins hanging above, and plates of sauerbraten or pork shank with creamy rahm sauce, not to mention the homey goulash or toothsome spätzle, make it as close as you can get to Munich without boarding a plane.
Also downtown, Baile Cask & Kettle starts the day with authentic New York bagels and sandwiches, transitioning to an Irish-inspired pub serving beefy cottage pie and plenty of small-batch craft beers made on-site or a pint of Guinness stout to wash it down. The place is a rising star after winning the local “Battle of the Burgers” in September.
The Mediterranean scene in Hagerstown has grown as well. Aleko’s 2 Go specializes in Greek
favorites like gyros, spanakopita, and souvlaki, including vegetarian options. Over on East Franklin Street, the Mediterranean Spot and Shawarma House bring Middle Eastern dishes such as falafel, hummus, and shawarma wraps.
From sushi to noodles, heady spices and stir fries, Hagerstown has no shortage of Asian cuisine, with each restaurant adding its own regional focus to delicacies in Japan, across southeast Asia to the Indian sub-continent.
When Masahiro “Massy” Hirai opened House of Kobe in 1981, sushi was practically unheard of in this region. He’d start his days at 4 a.m., driving to the Jessup fish market for the best quality fish but, as Hirai recalls, “Almost nobody ate sushi.”
For months, his wife offered free samples to hesitant diners until they
caught on to the delicacy. He insists timeliness affects quality.
“Sushi eaten at the sushi bar, and then at the table, and maybe to go, all the quality is different,” Hirai says. That’s why sushi here is never pre-portioned but cut to order. It is a commitment to excellence that has made his restaurant a community landmark.
As the place cruises up to its 45th anniversary next year, fans can even grab a copy of Hirai’s memoir, Made From Scratch, A Recipe for the American Dream Today, House of Kobe is a perennial Hot List favorite, known for sushi, interactive hibachi meals, superlative sakes, and traditional dishes like shrimp fried rice, yakisoba, poke bowls, and crispy tempura.
On Dual Highway, Sushi Bomb offers its own spin with an all-you-can-eat experience that is especially popular with younger crowds, while Sakura and Wasabi expand the hibachi and sushi options throughout Washington County. Downtown, under a
awning, Bangkok on Franklin is hard to miss. Owner Hana Holmes has more than 25 years in the restaurant business, bringing central, eastern, and northern Thai dishes to Hagerstown. In addition to quintessential pad Thai, her crispy basil duck in sweet-spicy sauce, Lanna curry with gingered pork and roasted peanuts, and tempura-style chili and garlic salmon are favorites among diners.
“Thai food is unique with herbs, spices, and adjustable spiciness to create the perfect blend of taste,” Holmes says. That adaptability makes Thai cuisine a welcoming entry point for newcomers. During cooler months, diners can opt for Holmes’ Winter Bowl Special, a quartet of cozy soups to melt away the chill.
She’s not alone in keeping the local Thai food scene lively. Silk Thai, Mee Thai, and Rice Thai Dining all offer their own variations, from creamy panang curry and drunken noodles to refreshing papaya salad and
Kong Chinese Restaurants are two local favorites that keep loyal customers coming back for familiar delights like savory lo mein, sweet sesame chicken, spicy kung pao shrimp, and fried rice done the way generations have come to expect.
Vietnamese cuisine is also making its mark at Pho Viet, where steaming bowls of beef pho and fresh spring rolls offer a light, satisfying alternative.
Just off Railway Lane, Sitar of India has been serving North Indian cuisine since 2011. Owner Pradeep Rawal is quick to debunk myths.
“A common misconception is that all Indian food is curry and overly spicy. In fact, Indian cuisine is one of the most diverse in the world,” he says, pointing to its continental-sized range of flavors, textures, and cooking styles.
Their butter chicken with garlic naan is a bestseller, balanced with choices like smoky tandoori chicken, fragrant biryanis, creamy korma, and a wide array of vegetarian options like Paneer Tikka (cheese), Chana Masala (chickpeas), and Baingan Bharta (eggplant). This cuisine’s bold flavors and aromatic spices pack a healthy punch, too. The spice palette includes turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties; ginger for digestion; cumin to boost metabolism, along with coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves for other essential vitamins and minerals.
“At Sitar of India, every dish is crafted with a
thoughtful blend of spices to create meals that are both delicious and nourishing,” Rawal says.
Meanwhile, Mango Grill has carved a unique niche with its Indian–Indo-Chinese fusion, offering Gobi Manchurian (cauliflower) alongside Indo-Chinese stirfries and Korean fried chicken, while Fusion Flavors by Chef Raj adds flair to traditional Indian recipes that includes a daily buffet so guests can fill their plates with variety.
African cuisine is still emerging in Washington County, but it has strong advocates. Chef Carol Crosby, originally from Kenya, runs Harambee54 catering and the 19th Hole at Black Rock restaurant. The name “Harambee” means pulling people together in Swahili and “54” represents the number of countries in Africa. Crosby enjoys teaching, hosting community
events, and connecting with diners as much as seeing them enjoy her food.
She describes her cooking as Afro-fusion. “I had to dive into my roots,” she says. “It’s about blending the culture and traditions of different African countries and presenting them in ways people can connect with.”
Her samosas are offered in beef, chicken, mung bean, and even breakfast versions with local Hoffman’s sausage. They’re a hit with golfers and foodies alike. Another favorite is jollof rice, a West African staple cooked with tomatoes and spices until richly flavored. She says folks who are new to African cuisine need not worry because they will find common items like corn, potatoes, leafy greens, and peppers.
“Food is universal,” she says. “Most of the ingredi-
ents are the same, just prepared in different ways.” This season, she’ll offer brunches and buffets, too.
Beyond Black Rock, Hagerstown is home to LIMS African Restaurant & Market and the newly opened Motherland Kitchen (noted for its veg-friendly menus), both offering dishes rooted in West African traditions. These spots give diners a chance to taste beyond the familiar, from fufu and egusi to goat pepper soup, fried fish, and pumpkin seed stew.
Few restaurants capture Puerto Rican hospitality like Sofrito, opened in 2024 by Jeovanni and Yahaira Diaz. Yahaira’s grandmother inspired much of the menu, especially the mofongo, made fresh to order by hand with green plantains mashed in a traditional pilon. It
is stuffed with meat or seafood and topped with the diner’s choice of sauce.
“It has to be fresh made. There’s no way to do that in advance,” Jeovanni says.
Other highlights include the dramatic chuleta kankan (a club-shaped pork chop with crispy skin) and empanadas, alcapurrias, and bolitas de yuca stuffed with beef. Desserts like tres leches cake come from a Puerto Rican bakery just over the Pennsylvania line. The family also plans to jar and sell its house-made sofrito seasoning, an aromatic blend of cooked onions, garlic, peppers, and herbs.
The Caribbean is also represented by Taste of Reggae, serving Jamaican classics like jerk chicken and curry goat, and Ti Boutik Caribbean and Haitian Cuisine on weekends.
South America’s influence shows up at Sardi’s Pollo
A La Brasa, known for its charbroiled chicken, and at venues like El Eden for tamales, Jenny’s Restaurant, Los Amigos, Taqueria Jalisco, and Big Papi’s Tacos; each offering Latin favorites like juicy birria, tacos and enchiladas, even authentic El Salvadorian pupusas, a corn flour dough stuffed with various fillings.
International dining in Hagerstown isn’t just about
novelty. It reflects the community’s changing demographics, cultural connections, and growing curiosity. And each restaurant represents a story: of immigrant entrepreneurs, of family traditions carried across oceans, of recipes adapted to local ingredients.
For diners, it’s an opportunity to expand horizons, an invitation to travel the world without leaving Washington County. So, grab a dining partner and pick a cuisine you’ve never tried. The world is waiting at your table.
Renowned chef and entrepreneur
Sabina Jules is bringing healthy, flavorful, and culturally rich Afro-Caribbean cuisine to Hagerstown. Motherland Kitchen and Catering opened last month on South Potomac Street and is another culinary milestone for what has become a great representation of international cuisine in Hagerstown.
Jules, originally from Cameroon, is a celebrated chef, entrepreneur, and educator who has made a remarkable impact on Maryland’s culinary scene. She is the founder, owner, and chef of Motherland Kitchen, a vibrant restaurant and catering service in Frederick known for its authentic West African and Afro-Caribbean cuisine,
including a variety of vegan and glutenfree options.
Before pursuing her culinary passion, Jules spent more than 20 years in IT, a career she left to follow her love of cooking. In addition to her restaurants, she runs Motherland Spices, a line of spice blends inspired by traditional African herbs, making authentic African flavors accessible to home cooks.
She is also the author of The Motherland Cookbook: Easy, Tasty, Healthy but Not Fast, showcasing sub-Saharan African recipes with an emphasis on nutritious, traditional cooking methods.
Beyond her culinary ventures, Jules shares her expertise through her YouTube channel, demonstrating recipes and cooking techniques, and as an instructor at Frederick Community College, teaching African and Afro-Caribbean cooking as well as vegan cuisine.
DINING GUIDE
ALEKOS 2 GO
511 Northern Ave., Hagerstown, 240.313.4976
Freshly prepared and cooked Greek food made daily. $
AMERICAN PIE PIZZERIA
17520 Virginia Ave., Hagerstown, 301.582.6281
Family run business that serves not only pizza but several authentic Italian dishes as well. $$
BENNY’S PUB
49 Eastern Blvd. N., Hagerstown, 301.791.5915
Relaxed venue serving specialty burgers and other pub grub, plus bespoke beers in convivial surrounds. $–$$
BISTRO 11
13208 Fountain Head Plaza, Hagerstown, 301.733.2222
Relaxed and refined cuisine. Full menu of specialties, steaks, and seafood. $$–$$$
BJ’S RESTAURANT & BREWHOUSE
17318 Valley Mall Road, Suite C, Hagerstown, 240.513.4040
Handcrafted beer, Chicago-style pizza with a Southern California twist, and Pizookies. $$-$$$
BLACK ROCK BAR & GRILL
17301 Valley Mall Road, Hagerstown, 240.850.3365
An award-winning steakhouse specializing in Certified Angus Beef steaks served and cooked to perfection by you on a 755-degree volcanic sizzling rock. $$-$$$
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are covered with a wide selection of sandwiches and entrees. $–$$
THE BROAD AXE
28 W. Franklin St., Hagerstown, 301.733.8454
Daily specials featuring top-notch pub fare and a quickly rotating tap list. $–$$
BROTHER’S PIZZA
75 Eastern Blvd. N., Hagerstown, 240.625.9215
Fresh, fast, and affordable pizza, sandwiches, and Italian classics. $–$$
CACIQUE
1101 Opal Court, Hagerstown, 301.739.7207
Fresh, creative, and classic Mexican, Spanish, and Latin American cuisine. $$
CAFÉ DEL SOL
1481 Salem Ave., Suite 1, Hagerstown, 301.739.3072
Gourmet pizza, flatbreads, and pasta with a California twist. $$–$$$
CAFÉ ITALIA
935 Pennsylvania Ave., Hagerstown, 240.420.6677
Classic Italian dishes, and they offer one of the biggest pizzas in town. $–$$
CHIC’S SEAFOOD
300 Summit Ave., Hagerstown, 301.739.8220
Daily specials featuring some of the freshest seafood around. $–$$$
COLONIAL SPORTS BAR AND GRILL
14130 Pennsylvania Ave., Hagerstown, 240.203.6206
The best game-day food at the best prices around. $–$$
THE DOG HOUSE CAFÉ
53 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown, 240.850.2883
Family-owned and operated restaurant that specializes in dozens of unique hot dog creations, great fries, and more. $
DISTRICT PROVISION & SUPPLY CO.
6 Rochester Place, Hagerstown, 301.791.1717
Open for breakfast and lunch, featuring gourmet sandwiches, salads, and soups. $
DOLCE PIZZA GOURMET
792 Frederick St., Hagerstown, 301.745.6300
Italian flavors complemented by Eastern European dishes. $–$$
EL CASTELLO PIZZERIA & TEX MEX
15616 National Pike, Hagerstown, 301.582.4727
Pizza, salads, lunch specials, and a spicy array of Tex Mex. $–$$
EL RANCHERO MEXICAN RESTAURANT
1481 Wesel Blvd., Hagerstown, 240.420.2842
1715 Dual Highway, Hagerstown, 301.797.7589
Fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine using the highest-quality ingredients available. $$
FAJITA GRANDE MEXICAN RESTAURANT
12818 Shank Farm Way, Hagerstown, 240.707.6333
Where the fiesta never ends. $
FOSTER’S ON THE POINT
1437 Salem Ave., Hagerstown, 301.739.7182
Soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and a rotating list of entrées and specials offered in an inviting rustic atmosphere. $$–$$$
FRATELLI PIZZERIA AND GRILL
120 E. Oak Ridge Drive, Hagerstown, 301.393.8733
Italian specialties like pasta, pizza, in addition to Mexican options. $–$$
FREE RANGE CAFÉ
520 Northern Ave., Hagerstown, 240.513.6070
Food that makes you feel good! $-$$
FUJI ASIAN FOOD & SUSHI BAR
11205 John F. Kennedy Drive, Suite 205, Hagerstown, 301.393.9099
Authentic traditional Chinese cuisine options and sushi. $–$$
GREENLEE’S FIRESIDE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
1716 Underpass Way, Hagerstown, 301.733.4800
A full menu of steaks, seafood, and other American specialties. $$–$$$
THE GRILLE AT RUNWAYS
18421 Henson Blvd., Hagerstown, 240.707.6996
Traditional American dining with a quiet and relaxing view of the airstrip. $–$$
HAGERSTOWN FAMILY DINER
431 Dual Highway, Hagerstown, 240.707.6330 Great hidden gem of Hagerstown. $
HOFFMAN’S ALL AMERICAN GRILL
18203 Mason Dixon Road, Hagerstown, 240.707.6600
Casual dining at its finest featuring burgers, steaks, salads, and seafood. $$–$$$
HONG KONG CHINESE RESTAURANT 1075 Virginia Ave., Hagerstown, 301.733.1292
Veteran eatery serving familiar Chinese dishes in an informal setting. $$
HOUSE OF KOBE
757 Dual Highway, Hagerstown, 301.797.6979
Fine dining featuring sushi and hibachi cooking right in front of you. $$–$$$
HUB CITY DINER
190 Railway Ln., Hagerstown, 240.707.6638
Comfort food served hot and fresh in a family friendly atmosphere. $
HUMMUS MEDITERRANEAN GRILL
11205 John F. Kennedy Dr., Unit 108A, Hagerstown, 240.513.6020
A blend of authentic Mediterranean recipes with modern flavors. $–$$
J’S DINER
43 Eastern Blvd N, Hagerstown, MD 21740, 301.745.3091
Innovative breakfast destination for those in search of an unpretentious place to begin the day. Everything they offer is made from scratch, so you can feel good about what you’re eating. $$
LEDO PIZZA
1423 Dual Highway, Hagerstown, 301.766.4900
Creative flavor combinations and lots of sandwich and gluten-free options. $–$$
LOS AMIGOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT
29 N. Burhans Blvd, Hagerstown, 240.420.8000
18330 Spark Dr., Hagerstown, 240.707.6250
The finest authentic Mexican food prepared just the way you like it. $
LOTUS MOON CAFÉ
16 Conococheague St., Williamsport, 240.366.1335 Unique sandwich and salad creations to please any taste. $-$$
MANGO GRILL INDIAN & THAI
CUISINE
11205 John F. Kennedy Drive, Suite 201, Hagerstown, 240.707.6220 Experience the flavors of India and Thailand with daily lunch buffet deals. $$
Dine in and carry out Vietnamese cuisine. Small venue but the portions are authentic and large. $
POKÉ & SUSHI
11347 Robinwood Dr. Hagerstown, 301.393.8833
Refreshing Asian alternative. Choose your own ingredients for soups, Poké, rice bowls and sushi. Boba (bubble) tea. $$.
PRETZEL & PIZZA CREATIONS
20 W. Washington St., Hagerstown, 301.733.7795
Calzones, sandwiches, hot dogs, and of course pizza featuring pretzel dough as the star. $–$$
PRIMANTI BROS.
17301 Valley Mall, Hagerstown, 301.228.0933
High-piled sandwiches equipped to quell the heartiest of hungers. $
PURA VIDA COFFEE
14035 Pennsylvania Ave., Hagerstown, 240.707.6540
Costa Rican inspired coffee shop/restaurant featuring craft coffees/teas, onsite baked goods, breakfasts, and lunches. $
RAD PIES
10210 Governor Lane Blvd., Williamsport, 240.366.8634
Unique, wood-fired pizza options for the adventurous. $$
REAL DEAL JAMAICAN RESTAURANT
71 W. Franklin St., Hagerstown, 240.513.6393
A concise menu of classic Jamaican comfort foods & soft drinks amid casual digs. $
RHUBARB HOUSE
12 Public Square, Hagerstown, 301.733.4399
Sandwiches, burgers, wraps, salads, and soups with a unique touch. $–$$
RICE THAI DINING
40 N. Potomac St., Hagerstown, 301.766.9559
A taste of authentic Thailand, without needing a passport $$-$$$
RIK’S CAFE
1065 Maryland Ave., Hagerstown, 301.302.7541
California-inspired contemporary American cuisine featuring sandwiches, hearty soups, small plates, and salads. $$–$$$
ROCKY’S NEW YORK PIZZA
907 S. Potomac St., Suite 1, Hagerstown, 301.791.6810
Great pizza in addition to other classic Italian fare. $–$$
ROCKY’S PIZZA ROBINWOOD
11351 Robinwood Drive, Hagerstown, 301.790.3853
Delicious Italian cuisine at an affordable price $-$$
ROOSTER MOON COFFEEHOUSE
Longmeadow Shopping Center, 1551 Potomac Ave., Hagerstown, 301.790.5040
Fine coffee, espresso drinks, organic teas, with a full breakfast and lunch menu. $
SAKURA JAPANESE RESTAURANT
102 Railway Lane, Hagerstown, 301.393.8680
Part Japanese steakhouse, part sushi bar, featuring hibachi dining. $$–$$$
SARDI’S POLLO A LA BRASA
100 Railway Lane, Hagerstown, 240.382.1214
Casual Peruvian chain serving charbroiled chicken, ceviche, and other traditional dishes. $–$$$
SCHMANKERL STUBE
58 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown, 301.797.3354
Old World-style Bavarian dining with an emphasis on German traditions. $$$
SCHULA’S GRILL AND CRAB HOUSE
11205 John F. Kennedy Drive, Hagerstown, 301.714.1397
Seafood and sandwiches are served in a casual setting with polished wood tables and a bar. $$–$$$
SILK THAI RESTAURANT AND BAR
1580 Wesel Blvd. K, Hagerstown, 240.267.2142
Spreading good vibes of Thai culture by introducing the wonderful food and scenery of the land of smiles. $$–$$$
SITAR OF INDIA
110 Railway Lane, Hagerstown, 301.733.8223
A contemporary atmosphere that complements their traditional Northern Indian specialties. $-$$
STADIUM TAVERN
401 S. Cannon Ave., Hagerstown, 301.714.0849
Crabs and steam buckets, shrimp, and oysters, and don’t forget the wings. $–$$
TACOS CARLITOS
Food Court, Valley Mall, Hagerstown, 240.452.1888
100% authentic genuine Mexican food – the best in town! Daily specials and delivery available. $
TASTE OF REGGAE
40 E Washington St, Hagerstown, MD 21740, 240.513.1101
Authentic Jamaican restaurant specializing in made-to-order Caribbean and Jamaican food. Packed with flavor and cooked the way it is done in Jamaica. $$
TAQUERIA JALISCO AUTHENTIC MEXICAN GRILL
1037 Maryland Ave., Hagerstown, 301.797.2000
Authentic Mexican cuisine with the experience of being in Mexico. $
THE CRAB 99
116 Railway Lane, Hagerstown, 240.452.1937
Tasty seafood dishes with a wide range of flavors. Make your own seafood combinations. $$
VEVA’S ON POTOMAC
38 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown, 301.791.0370
Italian fare; Maryland soul. $$-$$$
PRICE OF THIS IS THE
Hagerstown man honors Arlington National Cemetery by telling the stories of its history
BY LISA GREGORY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICK GREGORY
FREEDOM
Hagerstown resident Jim Garrett calls Arlington National Cemetery his family cemetery. And rightfully so. His own mother and father rest there as do both sets of his grandparents and their siblings. And when he adds in relatives through marriage the number totals 19.
Adding to his association with the cemetery, Garrett comes from a military family. “My father retired in 1966 and was the commander from 1962 to 1964 of the First Special Forces group,” says Garrett. Each Garrett child’s godfather was a general.
“My brother’s godfather was a fourstar general, chairman of the Joint
Hagerstown resident Jim Garrett at the site of his father’s grave at Arlington National Cemetery.
Chiefs of Staff, head of NATO,” says Garrett. “My sister’s godfather was a three-star general.”
Then adding with a chuckle, “My godfather had only one star.”
So, it is not surprising that he feels a special pull towards Arlington National Cemetery, which was established in 1864 on property previously owned by the wife of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee.
“This is the most sacred shrine,” says Garrett of the place where more than 400,000 are buried. “There is no other place in the world like it. And no one else in the world honors their dead like we do here.”
Garrett would know. He has worked at the cemetery as a historian as well as a tour guide. And his love of history has driven him to look deeply into the lives of those who have found their final resting place at the cemetery.
“The majority of people who walk into Arlington are there for two reasons,” he says. “The changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and President John F. Kennedy’s grave site.”
Both are important, he says, but there is so much more. “The stories I love are the ones people don’t even know about,” he says.
Garrett can recall the exact moment he became enamored with American history. “Because my father was originally a career mil-
itary man, we lived in a lot of different places,” says Garrett. “We cycled back to Washington when I was in third grade.”
His days as a young boy living in Washington, D.C., were often spent in the company of his grandmother. “She would always take me down to the Smithsonian on Sunday morning,” he says. “I loved the American History Museum. It was my favorite.”
But it was a visit to a different place that made a lifelong impact. While visiting the Petersen House where Abrahma Lincoln was taken after being shot by John Wilkes Booth at Ford’s Theatre, he saw the original pillow that had been beneath Lincoln’s head as he died. “It had a massive blood stain on it,” says Garrett. “It was something tangible. It was real. And that’s what got me on the history trail.”
Garrett, who attended boarding school at St. James School in Hagerstown, considered majoring in history in college. His father discouraged him. Instead, he went into the banking business, beginning in the early 1980s and retiring in 2013. But during all those years, Garrett, who would go on to marry and have a family, including fostering more than 30 children, never strayed far from his love of history.
“I volunteered at Ford’s Theatre,” he says. And he became an avid collector of historical artifacts. His most precious item is a prayer card from President
The changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.
Kennedy’s funeral service at St. Matthews Cathedral in Washington, D.C.
“It pulls at my heart strings,” he says. “That’s the moment our nation lost its innocence.”
After retiring from the banking profession, Garrett was free to pursue his passion for history more thoroughly. He went to work with a tour company focusing on historic spots. “I was a tour guide for two months and then became the tour guide trainer and the staff historian for Historic Tours of America,” he says.
As part of his work with Tours of America, he went to Arlington National Cemetery frequently. And when he heard that there was an opening for a historian there, he jumped at the chance. “The first thing they said to me was, ‘You don’t have a history degree,’” he says.
As the meeting and conversation progressed, however, it became obvious Garrett did know his history quite well. And more specifically he was well versed in the history of the cemetery. This was evident during a disagreement with the cemetery’s naval historian regarding the USS Maine.
“The rear mast to the USS Maine is there in Arlington,” he says. “The Maine was sent to Havana Harbor to safeguard American interests during an uprising. It was blown up and started the Spanish American War in 1898.”
The naval historian referred to the mast of the Maine at Arlington as the foremast. “I said, no, that’s the rear mast,” says Garrett. “We went back and forth. Then I said, ‘Look, the foremast is at the Naval Academy in Annapolis.”
They left the conversation at that.
“The next day he called me and said, ‘Yeah, you
were right. And when do you want to start work?’”
Garrett began working at the cemetery in 2016 and was there until 2021 when he decided to cut back on his hours and take a lighter schedule. However, he still does tours for an independent touring company as well as continuing tours for Arlington Cemetery when called upon.
And on a recent sunny Saturday as he walked about the cemetery, pausing at different grave sites and telling stories, it was as if he was greeting old friends. Matt Urban is a favorite.
“Audie Murphy has traditionally been described as the most decorated soldier of all time,” says Garrett of the WWII soldier and recipient of the Medal of Honor. However, Garrett says that might not be the case.
According to Garrett, there is a theory that that honor goes to Lt. Col. Matt Urban, who also fought during World War II. “He was recommended for the Medal of Honor,” says Garrett. “His commanding officer did all the paperwork and gave it to a sergeant to take up to headquarters. The sergeant was killed in a Jeep accident, and the paperwork disappeared.”
Urban who was aware that he had been nominated, “never heard anything so he thought he didn’t get it,” says Garrett.
The paperwork would be found three decades later. And it was also discovered that Urban was entitled to two more American commendations and a foreign commendation as well.
“Which put him one over Audie Murphy,” says Garrett. Though the debate continues.
Another soldier buried at Arlington,
The stories I love are the ones people don’t even know about. “ “
—Jim Garrett
Gregory “Pappy” Boynton, also received the Medal of Honor under unusual circumstances. “The inspiration for the television series Baa Baa Black Sheep, Boynton received the Medal of Honor in 1944,” says Garrett. However, “He was shot down over enemy territory and was thought to have been killed in action. So, they gave him the Medal of Honor posthumously.”
But he wasn’t dead. “He was sitting in a POW camp in Japan,” says Garrett.
World heavyweight boxing champion Joe Louis, buried at Arlington, didn’t see combat, but he did do his part for the war effort after enlisting in 1942. He used his talent in the boxing ring to entertain the troops and boost morale with exhibitions.
“Louis entered military service under immense financial strain,” says Garrett. “His business manager had stolen him blind.” He was deep in debt to the IRS.
“He asked the IRS if they would forego the interest and penalties while he served his country,” says Garrett. “They said no.” In fact, after the war Louis would continue to struggle financially and even worked as a greeter in Las Vegas when his boxing career ended.
However, upon his death, he had someone in his corner. “His marker at Arlington was paid for by Frank Sinatra,” says Garrett. “So many
this shows the sacrifice that the united states and the people of the united states made to save the world in wwii. this is the price of freedom. “ “
people think of Sinatra as this tough guy, and here he goes and does something like this.”
Right next to Joe Louis is actor Lee Marvin of such films as “The Dirty Dozen.” Marvin was also a highly decorated U.S. Marine Corps veteran of WWII.
“It was his last wish to be buried next to someone famous,” says Garrett with a grin.
Veterans and service members make up a vast number of those buried at Arlington. But there are others there, too. For example, actress Maureen O’Hara is buried with her husband Brig. Gen. Charles F. Blair Jr.
And not all graves belong to Americans, says Garrett. British Field Marshal Sir John Dill is the highest-ranking foreign military officer buried at the cemetery. He found his final resting place at Arlington through the influence of his close friend Gen. George C. Marshall, who is also buried there. Dill was granted permission through a Congressional joint resolution approved by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
“His granddaughter visited a couple of years ago,” says Garrett of Dill.
The grave markers are a who’s who in American history—from Tuskegee Airmen to astronauts such as John Glenn, the first American to orbit the earth, to polar explorer Robert E. Byrd.
Then there is the monument which proves one can hold a grudge beyond the grave. Lt. Thomas McKee, who fought during the Civil War with the 1st West Virginia Volunteer Infantry Regiment, is buried with a large granite marker—large enough that it obscures the view of the grave behind it which belongs to Brig. Gen. Benjamin Franklin Kelley.
“McKee was Kelley’s aide, and it is believed that Kelley was an unduly harsh commander,” says Garrett.
McKee’s wife never forgave or forgot. Not satisfied that her husband’s tombstone fully overshadowed that of Kelley, she “added a marble angel to make sure it did,” says Garrett.
Arlington is an active cemetery conducting thousands of burials each year. While some come to visit the place as a historic landmark, others come to grieve a personal loss.
“I remember one Thanksgiving the family all loaded up and headed to Arlington to visit our relatives,” say Garrett. “There was a man sitting in a lawn chair by a grave eating Kentucky Fried Chicken all by himself. It was a moving moment.”
Of course, Garrett has had his own personal experiences visiting the graves of his family members, some more disturbing than others. Shortly after 9/11, Garrett discovered that the section where his parents are buried was closed. That section of the cemetery is near the Pentagon. “It was an active crime scene,” says Garrett, “and parts of the plane landed all the way over there.”
More than three million people visit Arlington National Cemetery each year, according to the cemetery’s website. Many are from other countries. Garrett says he understands why they are drawn to this place in the United States.
He recalls being asked to do a private tour for a young woman from Sweden a few years ago.
“It was a cold February day,” he says. “Drizzling. Just a miserable nasty day. And here was someone I would never expect to want to do a tour of Arlington, a young woman in her early 20s. Let alone in this weather.”
time.
As they walked about the cemetery, he asked her why the visit was so important to her. Standing at a spot before row after row of white grave markers, she
waved her arms before her, and said, “Because of this. This shows the sacrifice that the United States and the people of the United States made to save the world in WWII. This is the price of freedom.”
Hagerstown resident Jim Garrett knows the history of individual soldiers buried at Arlington National Cemetery, including Matt Urban, perhaps the most decorated soldier of all
A Vision for Veterans
Platoon 22 organization rebuilt a historic house to provide space for veterans re-entering mainstream society
By Rebecca Chaney
The saying, “It takes a village,” often refers to people in a community helping children. The phrase also means the collective effort and community support of specific projects and that’s exactly the case for the Mulberry Housing Project and Platoon 22.
Platoon 22 is a nonprofit organization committed to combating the veteran suicide epidemic and supporting veterans in their transition to civilian life. The organization was founded in 2014 and is based in Frederick but serves veterans throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and surrounding areas.
Niki Falzone, executive director, credits community support, volunteers, and an impressive collaborative effort for the completion of the Mulberry Housing Project. She recalled the original idea grew from numerous conversations throughout the community and seeing a need.
“Our financial assistance program was flooded with requests to avoid eviction, keep homes, etc.,” she says. “In 2024 we awarded more than $50,000 and most of that was housing related.”
This was a small answer to the housing problem, according to Falzone. “There was a recognized need for affordable housing for veterans, especially once they leave inpatient programs, and the concept gained momentum with support from the local coordinators for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH),” she says.
An opportunity presented itself with the right property in 2023. “We used past reserves
to push forward with the project.” Falzone says. “We used funding we had set aside for 2025 financial assistance programming.”
Platoon 22 closed on the property in November 2023 and renovation efforts began. “The first tenant (veteran) moved into the house in August 2024,” she says. The Mulberry House now features six independent one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments. All six units are currently occupied by veterans.
Once the property was purchased, it was no small undertaking to get the renovation completed. Originally built in the 1920s, the historic home in Washington County needed major renovation.
“Most of the building was taken down to the studs,” Falzone says. “We replaced all flooring, added mini-Split HVAC units, new plumbing with the addition of a washer and dryer, plus new bathrooms. There is not much that is original. I led the project as far as design and timeline, but Bernie Hobbs was the boots on the ground executing the vision.”
Hobbs, a veteran himself, spent nearly 40 years working in
Nikin Falzone, executive director of Platoon 22.
different branches of the military and the Maryland Army National Guard. The decorated veteran joined different VFW posts and continued to serve his country as a volunteer.
The Keymar resident remembered stopping in at the Veteran’s Support Council (VSC) in Frederick when they started the free breakfast for veteran’s program.
“I found out about the house renovation project and offered to help for a couple of days, which turned into months,” he says.
As Hobbs continued to help the first project manager, it became very evident that the hired project manager was not experienced with the renovation of historic homes.
“That’s when I took over the demolition and framing, as well as coordinating contractors and finding free or cheap materials,” Hobbs says. “I also got donations from organizations like the VFW, American Legion and the Rob Seidel Foundation.”
Hobbs has been building homes his entire life.
“I had my own business doing home improvements and renovating old homes,” he says. “The Lord has given me a talent, and I feel it is only right to give back. As a sergeant major my job was to make sure soldiers were taken care of, and now I feel I have a duty to help veterans to get what they have earned. It was such a fulfillment to help veterans and soldiers again and it made me feel very needed. It was very emotional.”
“Currently, the home provides housing for six veterans who now have a safe, supportive environment where they can heal and thrive,” she says. “The project was a collaborative effort, with Platoon 22 overseeing the initiative and local partners and volunteers like Bernie making it possible.”
With Hobbs’ decades of experience in construction and renovation, coupled with his many contacts in the building industry, he was able to source reliable electrical, plumbing and other services, often at a discount.
Falzone said the historic home was fully gutted and restored with the purpose of providing stable, independent living for veterans—many of whom were previously homeless and struggling with substance abuse and mental health challenges.
How You Can Help
The Mulberry Housing Project was just one initiative by Platoon 22 to support local Veterans. For more information about Platoon 22, visit platoon22.org, email them at info@ platoon22.org or call them at 240-651-8899.
“This housing is more than a roof over their heads. It’s a foundational step in helping them break the cycle of crisis and reclaim autonomy in their lives,” she says.
But the big question is, do the veterans like their new home? The answer, a resounding yes, by the Mulberry Project residents.
“At Platoon 22, I found more than a roof. I found purpose, dignity, and the tools to rebuild,” says D. Smith, a Navy Veteran. “Every care package and clean space reminds me I’m no longer forgotten.”
Afghanistan Marine Corps Veteran J. Cotto said it was a true blessing to move into the newly renovated house.
“To have a roof over my head and a place to call home is a huge hurdle for me,” he says.
“Four of the veterans were living in their cars before, so having a place to call their own has created a sense of self-worth and direction,” Falzone says. “Stable housing was the first step in addressing their mental health and wellness. Platoon is more than a landlord. We offer check-ins and invite them out to community events.”
“We have some with no conflict and half with combat tours in the Middle East. We have provided financial literacy, tax prep, transportation, and so much more to the guys living there,” Falzone says.
There are an estimated 22 veterans lost to suicide daily, Platoon 22 was founded to bring awareness, education, and prevention to this statistic. At Platoon 22, the mission is to end veteran suicide through the successful reintegration of service members and their families by assembling critical resources, providing peer support, and developing transitional programs.
Before and after images of the entry way of the Mulberry Housing Project for veterans.
ON THE ROAD
Wit or Witout
Day-Tripping to Philly in Search of the Perfect Cheesesteak
In early 2018, I asked Jay Gomberg, a former Philadelphia resident and poker buddy of mine, “Who has the best cheesesteak in Philadelphia, Pat’s or Geno’s?” His response, “Neither.”
While Pat’s claims to be the original “King of Steaks,” and Geno’s, (a stone’s throw across Passayunk Avenue) have maintained a friendly rivalry for years, cheesesteak lovers have plenty of great choices in and around the City of Brotherly Love.
By Chuck Boteler
This year, eight of us took I-95 north for our seventh annual “cheesesteak crawl.” The stops and participants vary every year. Wherever possible, we try to plan our route by grouping stops within easy walk or drive of another to make our journey more efficient. This year, each stop was no more than 15 minutes apart for a very efficient tour.
Undertaking a “cheesesteak crawl” takes planning and preparation. A rookie mistake is to go hungry in advance, thinking it will make it easier to sample numerous cheesesteaks.
The stops included four in Philadelphia (Skinny Joey’s Cheesesteaks, Angelo’s Pizzeria, John’s Roast Pork, and Del Rossi’s Cheesesteaks & Pizza) and three in New Jersey (Donkey’s Place, Gouldsburger’s, and Cheessteaks). We’ve visited the highly rated Angelo’s and Johns’s during previous crawls and looked forward to how the new stops would measure up, especially Donkey’s, which enjoyed favorable mentions on the TV show The Goldbergs.
Part of the fun includes a rating system we employ to come up with a consensus of our favorite stops. Each of us judged a sample of each cheesesteak, basing our ratings on four categories: meat-to-cheese ratio; quality of bread; overall taste; and the Philly Experience—that street food, everyman appeal (no white cloth dining and food courts for us!). We use a simple 1-to-10 rating in each category, which are then compiled, providing one overall score for each. This year’s ratings, in order of our stops:
• Skinny Joey’s (7.8)—A very good start with a sturdy, but absorptive seeded roll and ample filling with my new favorite Cooper Sharp cheese.
• John’s Roast Pork (8.1)—Lots of creamy, meaty flavor, a consistent top-10 in other Philly-area rankings. Heavy and delicious.
• Del Rossi’s (8.1)—Another great neighborhood stop, similar roll to Angelo’s and Skinny Joey’s, good flavor with a little less filling than the John’s sample.
• Donkey’s (8.1)—High marks for the “Philly Experience” party atmosphere, uniquely soft, round kaiser roll. I wasn’t a huge fan of the onions piled directly on top.
• Cheessteaks (6.0)—Very similar bread to others, but more cheese in this mixture made it a little gummy; combined with the pull of the bread, the bite seemed a chore.
• Gouldsburger’s (6.5)—Bread described as something like an “everything bagel” was a plus, although mine was a bit overcooked. Great meat-to-cheese ratio.
Ultimately, we had to skip Angelo’s this year due to an hour-long wait time to order.
While I declared John’s Roast Pork my slight favorite of this trip, the consensus score ultimately showed a three-way tie at 8.1. After expanding the tabulation by an additional
decimal point, John’s Roast Pork came out as a very slight group favorite (8.15), compared to Donkey’s (8.14) and Del Rossi’s (8.07). It was that close, and every cheesesteak on this trip was above average.
Here are my overall Top-10 stops for all our tours:
• Sonny’s Famous Steaks (9.0)
• By George! (8.5)
• Tony Luke/Tony and Nick’s (8.4)
• John’s Roast Pork (8.1)
• Brynn Bradley (8.0)
• Max’s Steaks (8.0)
• Donkey’s (8.0)
• Del Rossi’s (8.0)
• Campo’s Philly Cheesesteaks (7.8)
• Skinny Joey’s (7.8)
Make no mistake, undertaking a culinary journey of this type takes some preparation and planning. Going hungry in advance is not a great strategy and sometimes the experience will cause an early tap out. I’ve prepped and survived several of these day-trippers now and it’s a journey worth duplicating. Make mine Cooper Sharp “wit.”
Forget Pat’s or Geno’s. The search for a great cheesesteak should cover a wide swath of Philadelphia and even parts of South Jersey, to find various, tasty interpretations of the classic.
SENIOR LIVING CALENDAR
OF EVENTS
Every Wednesday CONTEMPORARY RETIREMENT
9:06 a.m. to 10 a.m., WJEJ Radio (1240 am)
Tune in for topical discussions on issues affecting retirees.
Wednesdays, November 5 and December 3
NEW TO MEDICARE WORKSHOP
1 p.m. to 3 p.m., 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. 535 East Franklin Street, Hagerstown
Hosted by the Washington County Commission on Aging. To register call 301.790.0275.
Tuesdays, November 4 and December 2
ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP
4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Somerford Place
Hosted by Somerford Assisted Living and Alzheimer’s Care. 301.791.9221.
Tuesdays, November 4, 11, 18, 25 and December 2, 9, 16, 30 HEALTH MATTERS RADIO SHOW
9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., WJEJ radio (1240 am)
Tune in for information on health topics that matter. Call 301.739.2323 during broadcast times with your health questions.
Thursdays, November 6 and December 4
PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP
11:45 a.m. to 3 p.m., Western Sizzlin Steakhouse, 17567 York Road, Hagerstown
Parkinson’s Disease patients and caregivers meet to hear a variety of speakers and enjoy lunch and conversation. Call Judy Fiery at 301.797.7373 or www.hagerstownparkinsonsupport.org.
Mondays, November 10 and December 8
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
2 p.m. to 3 p.m., LIFE Lutheran Services, 840 Fifth Ave., Chambersburg, Pa.
Covers a new topic each week. Free; light refreshments served. 717.709.2342.
Mondays, November 10 and December 8
BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
7 p.m., Breast Cancer Awareness Cumberland Valley, 12916 Conamar Drive, Suite 201, Hagerstown 301.791.5843 or www.bcacv.org.
Mondays, November 17 and December 15
SPINAL CORD INJURY SUPPORT
3–4 p.m., Robinwood Medical Center, Suite 201 Education and support for those who have suffered a spinal cord injury and are now adjusting to their disabilities. Call 301.714.4070.
Tuesdays, November 18 and December 16
SMART SENIORS
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Diakon Senior Living, Robinwood Campus
Educational forum about topics of interest to older adults; sit-down meal served. $9. 240.420.4119.
Tuesdays, November 18 and December 16
LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA
6 p.m., Robinwood Medical Center, Suite 129 Open to those affected by leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, MDS or myeloma. 301.665.4650.
Family and friends of those suffering from dementia are invited to network with others who are experiencing similar situations in a safe, non-judgmental setting. 301.733.3353.
Lunch and educational seminar for people ages 55 and up. $13. 301.790.8907.
GROW IT ALL
PREP FOR WINTER
The extended gorgeous fall is winding down, just as the holiday season is gearing up. I’m tackling final garden cleanup while also contemplating what Christmas gifts I can give from the garden.
First, some chores to check off before Thanksgiving. The highest priority is preparing stressed trees and shrubs for winter simply by watering them. Irrigation helps them recover from the extended drought this summer, which took its toll on so many plants (especially those newly planted).
Even evergreens need to “store” water to rebound and resist winter wind desiccation. Realize that even if trees don’t show obvious dieback now, symptoms may show up belatedly, often over a few years. Shallow rooted trees like birch, dogwood, hemlock, magnolia, red and sugar maples, redbud, and others frequently struggle after multiple years of drought before “suddenly” dying. Prioritize watering trees and shrubs one inch weekly if there is no rain until the soil freezes.
Mulch! Add a two- to four-inch layer but no more out to the tree’s dripline. Please don’t pile it up against the trunk. Mulched trees should look like a donut, not a volcano. Mulch shrub and flower beds, too.
Change your mind set about raking leaves. Overwintered leaves break down into free mulch. Chop them first by running a lawnmower over your pile before spreading them over vegetable and garden beds.
Did you dig your dahlias? They’re actually best dug one to two weeks after a freeze. This delay produces thick skin that prevents shriveling during winter storage. Did any longstanding dahlias produce numerous weak, flowerless stalks? If so, it might need division and re-potting. Mine was like this—following my verbal ultimatum, I dug it up, finding a massive tuber clump that I divided into eight pieces. All are now in a box of peat for winter storage. I’m betting on eight healthier, more floriferous dahlias next year.
By Deborah Smith Fiola
Those leftover dahlia tubers just might become Christmas gifts. Giving truly home-grown gifts from your garden is a personal way to share your green thumb during the holiday season. Some ideas:
• Homemade jam or jelly, always beloved, becomes extra special if you have grown the berries (now frozen) yourself. Follow a USDA recipe if canning. Don’t forget your canned salsa and pickles as esteemed gifts, too.
• Decorative gifts include handmade wreaths (use the bottom branches from your Christmas tree) as well as dried flower wreaths (eucalyptus branches add scent).
• Share saved seed from your garden (tomato, coneflower, cleome, etc.) in decorative packets or old envelopes. Decorate packets with stamps, pressed flowers, an online template— or have the kids decorate the envelopes.
• Edible gifts are always appreciated. Dried herbs can be blended with salt and spices for seasoning blends (think steak rub or fajita seasoning). Herbal tea is easy: fill empty tea bags with two or three different dried herbs (one teaspoon each). Try peppermint plus lemon verbena or Chamomile plus lavender plus lemon balm.
• Herb sachets are practical. They repel clothes moths lurking in drawers, wardrobes, and storage bins. Mix dried herbs (lavender, peppermint, rosemary) with several drops of eucalyptus oil in small fabric bags.
• Another meaningful gift is homemade potpourri made from dried flowers (plus a splash of cinnamon oil).
If stumped, give a garden center gift certificate. It might help to replace a plant drought victim.
Happy Holidays.
Deborah Smith Fiola is a professional horticultural consultant who lives in Keedysville. A former university professor/Extension agent, she has a B.S. in horticulture and an M.S. in entomology/pest management (from the University of Maryland). Email your questions to: landscapeipm@gmail.com.
I used to believe that I was a grateful person. I ate anything that anyone cooked for me and said thank you. I didn’t complain about the weather. I mailed personal notes when I was gifted presents. I tried not to envy.
But I think gratitude is infinitely more complicated than that.
I can explain it over Thanksgiving dinner.
But first I have to let you in on a little secret. I don’t like turkey that much. I don’t like digging that little frozen bag of giblets out of the inside of it. I don’t like rubbing the skin with oil. I don’t like stuffing it with torn up bread. I don’t like the fact that to cook a turkey for Thanksgiving I need to commit to a relationship that lasts longer than a boyfriend in the seventh grade.
A few weeks, maybe even a month before Thanksgiving, I’ve got to buy a turkey and haul its big frozen body around the grocery store and into my car and then into my house and somehow fit it in my freezer where I have to look at it in that weird white bag suction cupped to its body so I can see the shape of its legs every time I grab a frozen pizza. Eventually the time comes when I’ve got to thaw it in the fridge for a couple days, moving the rest of my life around it like it is the sun and cottage cheese, pickles, and mayonnaise are lowly planets. When it’s finally thawed, I’ve got to unwrap it from that plastic, rub it like it’s my husband at the beach needing sunscreen, and season it so that it hopefully tastes like a little more than plain turkey. The day of Thanksgiving I have to wake up in the middle of the night to put it in the oven so it’s done when we are ready to eat dinner. Then, when it’s finally cooked, someone still needs to carve it. After everyone has eaten their fill and dinner is over, there’s still leftover meat that needs to be dealt with and a carcass and a pan. And even then, after all that, I’ve now got to keep eating turkey for another half of a week. And the truth is no matter what anyone does to a turkey it still comes out tasting like turkey when I wish it tasted like ham.
But on the table around the turkey, I really love those things. I love all pies, green bean casserole, buns, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, and cranberry sauce. I love conversation that lingers. I love watching people enjoy a meal I prepared, relaxing into the moment. I love being able to provide a space where that moment happens. I
love being able to participate.
That turkey that I don’t really like gives me all of that by just ending up on my table. It makes an entire day special. Where would we be on the last Thursday in November without a turkey to share?
I don’t know. But I know for a fact the answer is not together the way we are with it.
So I look at the turkey, and I cook the turkey, and I eat the turkey.
And I think that’s gratitude.
It’s not just thank you. It’s not just being thankful. It’s giving, too. It’s giving yourself to your life, the people in your life, the season of your life. It’s not necessarily screaming thank you but smiling and eating the food, participating in the conversation, taking the time to see everyone and everything for who and what they are even if it isn’t exactly what you wanted because the moment you’ve been given is precious, deserving, and alive.
Gratitude is being alive and living that way.
There’s an art to it. It’s kind of like cooking a turkey.
