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Inside the world of the wonderment puppet theater thoroughbreds retire at Sleeping Fox farms
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welcome. In spring 2018, Jefferson Magazine first made its way into the homes of our readers. Later that year, we followed with a second issue. The warm and wonderful response we received from those initial endeavors prompted us to increase our offering to three issues in 2019. Now, nearly two years after our first edition, Jefferson Magazine is changing again. Our original goal was to pique the interest of our readers throughout Jefferson County—but we did more than that. After more than two years of requests, we’re answering the community’s demand by expanding the scope of our publication to include Berkeley County as well. With that, the name Jefferson Magazine doesn’t make as much sense, so I’m proud to introduce the newly christened County Connections. We still have the same strong writers, amazing photographers, and tremendous designers bringing you the best the Eastern Panhandle has to offer. Welcome to the first issue of County Connections.
CHRISTOPHER KINSLER Publisher
While Berkeley and Jefferson counties have plenty in common, they also have many unique aspects that make them travel destinations. From a rich farming tradition to plenty of historical sites, Berkeley and Jefferson counties remain a mustsee for those traveling through the area—and there’s plenty for residents to always check out, too. But what both counties bring is a community of folks who are proud to support their own. This first issue highlights both communities—through history, nature, locally produced food, farmers markets, art, and more. There is plenty to explore through these County Connections, so what are you waiting for?
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Matt Welch
PUBLISHER
Christopher Kinsler
SALES DIRECTOR
Judy Gelestor
ART DIRECTOR
Alex Tatro
MANAGING EDITOR
Eli Hoelscher
COPY EDITOR
Leslie Andres
WRITERS
Clarissa Cottrill Karen Gardner Mary Heath Emily Keefer Bob O’Connor Karen Peacock
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ronald Sartini Jamie Turner Steve Whysall
For editorial queries or suggestions, contact Matt Welch at mwelch@journal-news.net or (304) 263-8931, ext. 218. For advertising queries, contact Judy Gelestor at jgelestor@journal-news.net or (304) 263-8931, ext. 110. County Connections 207 W. King Street Martinsburg, WV 25402
County Connections is a collaboration of the Journal-News and Ogden Publications city/regional magazine division.
Ogden Publications production team for County Connections: Bob Cucciniello, Jenni Leiste, and Christian Williams.
MATT WELCH
All material, including text and photography, are copyright Ogden Publications. The use, reprint or distribution of any material without express permission is forbidden.
Editor-in-Chief
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CONTENTS SERVING UP BERKELEY Hungry diners from near and far can now find local beef and more at this growing restaurant located inside a farmers market.
08 WOODED WONDERLAND The thriving biodiversity of Yankauer Nature Preserve keeps volunteers and visitors coming back every season for new botanical views.
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BUILDING BRIDGES In Shepherdstown, an art gallery shares its space for art and more.
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STICKING TO THE PLAN Ranson’s original town design stays relevant, 130 years later.
24
THE BRIDGE GALLERY
OFFERS ART FOR ALL
Inside the world of the wonderment puppet theater thoroughbreds retire at Sleeping Fox farms
ON THE COVER An acrylic-on-canvas painting, currently on exhibit at The Bridge Gallery in Shepherdstown, by David Bottini. Photograph by Ronald Sartini
FALTERED, BUT FLOURISHING When thoroughbreds’ racing days are over, they head to Sleeping Fox Farm to enjoy a new life.
32 Q&A WITH JACK MEYER Jack Meyer has done many things in his life. For the last six years, after a trip to Costa Rica, he’s been making handcrafted chocolate in Shepherdstown.
ENTER IMAGINATION With a little help from his puppets, Joe Santoro brings magic to life for children all through the year with shows and interactive experiences they can’t find anywhere else.
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A L O O K AT O U R
CONTRIBUTORS
Writer
Writer
KAREN GARDNER
MARY HEATH
EMILY KEEFER
BOB O’CONNOR
Karen Gardner is a freelance writer, copy editor, and journalism instructor in Maryland. She enjoys the challenge of the written word and is always looking for ways to write better. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland College of Journalism, with a degree in print journalism.
Mary Heath first discovered her passion for the written word through poetry and music. A love-hate relationship with politics came later. When she’s not writing or reading, she enjoys listening to music and visiting museums with husband, Matt, and two sons, Thomas and Jack.
Emily Keefer is a junior at Shepherd University studying English education to become a full-time high school English teacher. She has been writing for The Journal for almost a year. One of her favorite parts about her job is getting to know people in the community and seeing the good that is done every day.
Born in Illinois and a graduate of Northern Illinois University, Bob O’Connor worked for more than 30 years in tourism industries. He is now semi-retired and a full-time author and fourtime finalist in national book competitions. You can hear more from O’Connor in his podcast “The Chronicles of the American Civil War.”
Writer
Photographer
Photographer
KAREN PEACOCK
RONALD SARTINI
JAMIE TURNER
Photographer
Karen Peacock is a writer, mixed-media artist, and magazine designer living and working in downtown Frederick. She writes a monthly art column for 72 Hours in Frederick and feature articles for other publications. Karen also enjoys writing short fiction and poetry.
Ron Sartini owns Sauté Studios, photographing fine art portraiture and ballet from the eastern panhandle of West Virginia to Washington, D.C. New York City born and raised, his favorite creations are images of his wife’s Potomac Belle Millinery couture hats on timeless film.
Jamie Turner is the owner of Turner Photography in Frederick. His career has spanned the last 20 years, and he has shot everything from editorial to weddings. Jamie now concentrates his craft on commercial and advertising photography and loves sharing his vision in print for the public to enjoy.
Writer
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Writer
STEVE WHYSALL Graduating from The Corcoran Gallery of Art in photography, Steve Whysall assisted Richard Nowitz, a famous National Geographic photographer, before setting up his own studio, Whysall Photography. His work has appeared in Conde Nast and World Magazine. |
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TA STE STORY BY Matt Welch | PHOTOGRAPHY BY Jamie Turner
g Berkeley Hungry diners from near and far can now find local beef and more at this growing restaurant located inside a farmers market.
F
resh fruits and locally sourced vegetables have dotted the menu of The Cider Press in Inwood for over three
years now, but patrons might be happiest with what the local products are now paired with. The Cider Press owner Ryan Taylor took a survey of his customers about a year ago to see what they would like added to the restaurant, and the resounding response was clear: dinner options. Since then, The Cider Press, located at 178 Pilgrim Street, has sought out locally produced meatfor those evening options. It’s been a key to the growth of this hot spot for a farm-fresh meal. “Usually, if you ask 100 people what they like, you’re going to get 100 different answers,” Taylor says. “We couldn’t put everything under the sun on the menu. But they wanted something more with those good sides. So we listened, and we put dinner on the menu with about eight or nine dinner entrees in addition to the lunch menu.” Currently, those offerings include fresh, locally raised ground beef, free-range turkey, and veggie-fed chicken. Customers can get supper plates that include sirloin steak, roasted chicken, southern fried chicken, pork ribeye,
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TA STE
Left: The Cider Press gained a following for its paninis and hot sandwiches. Below: Still hungry? Then peruse the farmers market offerings for a little something to take home.
crab cakes, salmon, and a pasta Alfredo dish,
most expensive by any means. We just want
with menu options subject to change. The
the best product for a fair price.”
dinner menu is available starting at 4 p.m.
The Cider Press also features local craft
The lunch menu continues to offer the
beer and wines, as well
favorites The Cider Press is known for, such
as coffee from The Black
as burgers, wraps, and paninis, as well as
Dog Coffee Company in
other hot sandwiches and subs.
Shenandoah Junction.
“I just think it’s a good place for the community to meet up and have lunch or dinner.” —Ryan Taylor
It makes sense, Taylor says, that The
The restaurant was
Cider Press would continue to grow as
recently included in
the Inwood area expands around it. The
the state’s 101 Most
restaurant sprouted up inside Taylor’s Farm
Unique Places to Dine
Market, which was once a humble apple-
publication and was selected as the No. 1
packing facility.
menu by readers of The Journal.
Going forward, The Cider Press continues
Taylor says the community is appreciative
to put its spin on old favorites and make
of the food on their plates, and his patrons
the most of local produce. “Throughout the
spread the word, old-school–style.
year, a lot of our fruits—peaches, apples,
“I think Inwood’s growing, and Berkeley
grapes—find their way onto the menu. We
County is growing, but my best form of
try to source local vegetables as much as we
advertising is still word of mouth,” he says. “I
can during their growing seasons from local
just think it’s a good place for the community
farmers. We get all our meat for our burgers
to meet up and have lunch or dinner.”
from Jefferson County,” Taylor says. “We’re
The Cider Press serves lunch and dinner
always trying to put out a good product.
Monday through Saturday, with a breakfast
We’re not the cheapest, but we’re also not the
option Saturday morning.
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TA STE
GROWING STRONG Admittedly, Ryan Taylor knew very little about the restaurant business before opening The Cider Press in Inwood. A recently retired member of the Air National Guard, Taylor was a farmer in his earlier years, and he tended to his family’s 1,500 acres in the Eastern Panhandle. He grew row crops along with fruit, but now the fruit of his labor comes from turning those products into meals folks in the area—and beyond—can enjoy. “It was a learning curve for me in the restaurant business,” Taylor says. “But I jumped into it and had a lot to learn very quick. We made mistakes when we first opened, and we learned from them and listened to our customers.” The customers are what Taylor likes best about the operation. And it goes beyond the fact that they’re spending money in his restaurant. “I like seeing our customers. We have a lot of regular customers who dine with us sometimes twice a week. They become family,” he says. “I see a lot of people here with Procter & Gamble jackets on, and places like the Air Guard support us really well.” Out-of-towners, too. “I hear people on Friday nights say they’re from places like Stephens City (Virginia) just to have dinner. That’s nice to hear,” he says. Uniquely positioned off Interstate 81 in Inwood, The Cider Press gets plenty of travelers, Taylor says. Word of their quality meals has spread far and wide. “It’s great. We can’t be perfect all the time, but we Top: Ryan Taylor transformed part of Taylor’s Farm Market into a place to get breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Above: The Cider Press also serves coffee from The Black Dog Coffee company in nearby Shenandoah Junction.
try our best. People in general have good things to say about The Cider Press,” he says. “We just want to continue pressing on.”
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Previously known as Jefferson Magazine
Are you a freelance writer or photographer? Contact us today to see how you could be apart of the new County Connections Magazine. Writers please contact Eli Hoelscher at ehoelscher@sunflowerpub.com Photographers please contact Alex Tatro at atatro@sunflowerpub.com
An ever-expanding menu has been key to the success of The Cider Press.
NATU RE STORY BY Mary Heath | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF Wil Hershberger
Wooded Wonderland The thriving biodiversity of Yankauer Nature Preserve keeps volunteers and visitors coming back every season for new botanical views.
F
or many people, one of the first signs that spring has arrived is the sight of wildflowers dotting
that honor is reserved for the Canadian moonseed. Bilton
the landscape. After a long winter, the small
describes the plant as a vine. “It’s rare to see the plant
colorful blooms, the smell of wet earth, and the sound of chattering birds are welcome. For the volunteers and
flower. I’ve only seen it once,” she says. The preserve hosts 188 documented species of flora
visitors who frequent the 104-acre Yankauer Nature
and 109 bird species, according to Katelyn “KC” Walters,
Preserve in Berkeley County, it’s the beginning of another
the conservation and land manager for the Potomac
season in a favorite outdoor space that offers surprises
Valley Audubon Society. It’s bordered to the north by
and unique sights they look forward to.
private residences, wide-open fields to the south, and
Kathy Bilton, a volunteer who leads popular wildflower
Whitings Neck Road to the west; the Potomac River
walks at the preserve, has been involved at Yankauer
winds its way along the eastern border. Motorists
for decades. Bilton grew up in Arlington, Virginia, but
can find the preserve along Whitings Neck Road in
has lived in Sharpsburg, Maryland, for several years. She
Berkeley County, approximately 15 minutes from both
became involved in nearby Yankauer Nature Preserve as
Shepherdstown and Martinsburg.
a member of the Potomac Valley Audubon Society, which
Visitors to the preserve’s 2.4 miles of hiking trails will appreciate the towering trees of the area as they make their
manages the property. While Bilton notes that April is the best time of year to
way along narrow trails. The PVAS website, which describes
visit Yankauer to experience the wildflowers, many of the
the trails as primitive and rocky, notes that closed-toed
plants can be observed there much longer. She has taken
shoes are recommended for hiking there. Those who visit
over documenting a list of plant and wildflower species at
in the spring get to see Yankauer in full bloom—sprinkles of
the preserve from Shepherd University’s Dr. Carl Bell.
mostly white blossoms and buds, according to Bilton, in a
Bell spent more than 50 years teaching plant biology
sea of green. Yankauer’s popular wildflower walk was once a
at the school prior to his retirement in 2015. He passed
Mother’s Day walk. “But, by then there are not many flowers
away in 2017. One of Bilton’s rare moments at Yankauer
left to see,” Bilton says.
occurred with the assistance of Dr. Bell. Near the Potomac
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But, this rare find is not her favorite plant at Yankauer—
Wildflowers serve two important purposes, according to
River’s edge, Bell pointed out an obscure plant—the false
Bilton: They provide a food source for pollinators such as
mermaid. Bilton has been able to find the plant again
butterflies and bees, and they bring people out to the woods
since then, now that she knows where to look.
where they might develop a deeper appreciation for nature.
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N ATU R E
Virginia spring beauty
THE HISTORY OF YANKAUER Yankauer Nature Preserve was farmland until it was purchased in
Round-lobed hepatica
the early 1960s by Dr. Alfred Yankauer and Mrs. Marian Yankauer, according to Katelyn “KC” Walters, the Potomac Valley Audubon Society conservation and land manager. “He was a doctor, and she was a lawyer in (Washington, D.C.), and they used the property as a weekend getaway,” Walters says. In 1966, the Yankauers donated the property to The Nature Conservancy to preserve it for future generations. In 1994, PVAS entered into a formal agreement with The Nature Conservancy to become the primary managers of the preserve, Walters says. It was the first preserve PVAS took management of. The preserve proceeded naturally through ecological succession from farmland, Walters says. Forest succession happens when one group of plant species replaces another. “The front of the preserve largely comprises eastern red cedar trees, which are one of the first species to appear in an abandoned field,” she says. “Eastern red cedar are capable of thriving on very poor, acidic soils. Over time, these trees add calcium to the soil, increasing the pH and making the soils suitable for secondary successional native species, like oaks.” The cedars make it possible for succession to occur, which results in
Virginia bluebells
a mature, old growth forest, Walters says. One example of the mature forest can be found near the back of the preserve along the Potomac
Dutchman’s breeches
River. There, visitors will see several large oak trees with a native understory of viburnum shrubs, Walters says. But even as forest succession occurs naturally at the preserve, volunteers and PVAS staff continue to battle other invasive species there. “Invasive plants are also tolerant of very poor soils, and they threaten the natural successional process,” Walters explains. One invasive species, autumn olive, is particularly prevalent at Yankauer, according to Walters. The plant is a large shrub that produces berries that native birds eat. By feeding on the plant, the birds help spread its seeds. The plant, however, has little other ecological value, Walters says. PVAS holds regular volunteer workdays at the preserve to help reduce the presence of autumn olive.
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NATU RE
So what might a spring visitor find there? A multitude of Dutchman’s breeches (a perennial wildflower named for its blooms, which resemble little white pants), Bilton
“I would encourage visits to yankauer, as there is always something new or different to experience.” —Wanda Miller
says, along with a few other surprises if they look carefully. There are green violets, which can easily be overlooked, Bilton explains. The flower blooms later than most of the popular plants at Yankauer. “It’s a tall plant and doesn’t look anything like a standard violet,” she says. “I had no idea it grew at Yankauer until I was leading a walk one time and someone asked me what a particular plant was. When I looked to see what the person was talking
about, I was shocked to see the green violet, which at that point I
10 PLANTS TO LOOK FOR The Yankauer plant list was first put together by the late Dr. Carl Bell, a professor of plant biology at Shepherd University, in the 1970s. PVAS volunteer Kathy Bilton organized and
had only seen in one other location.” Yankauer also contains a few orchids, whose leaves are visible for much of the year. Bilton notes that they don’t bloom every year, and a visitor would have to know when to look if they hope to have a chance of seeing them in bloom. Twinleaf is one of the most prominent spring flowers at Yankauer, Bilton says. Though its flowers are fleeting, she says, the leaves often last for several months. Twinleaf ’s botanical name is Jeffersonia, named after Thomas Jefferson. According to
added to it over several years, with input from
Monticello.org, Thomas Jefferson grew the plant at his home in
both visitors and fellow volunteers. These are
the early 1800s. Wanda Miller, another volunteer at Yankauer, says
just a few species highlights from the native
its display of twin flowers is breathtaking. “Their abundance is a thing to behold,” she says.
wildflower section.
Miller got involved at Yankauer as a result of the Potomac Valley
Antennaria plantaginifolia—plantain-leaf pussytoes Arisaema triphyllum—Jack-in-the-pulpit Dicentra cucullaria—Dutchman’s breeches Floerkea proserpinacoides—false mermaid
Master Naturalist program in 2008. “My first experiences there were as a volunteer at the discovery camps for youth,” she says. Miller, who was at one time a classroom teacher, took students on field trips there. Now retired, she leads wildflower walks for PVAS. “I would encourage visits to Yankauer, as there is always
Hybanthus concolor—green violet
something new or different to experience,” she says. “One
Jeffersonia diphylla—twinleaf
experience I will always remember was an owl prowl and hearing
Mertensia virginica—Virginia bluebells
nestling owlets and their parents hooting to each other.” The preserve is open from dawn to dusk year-round. In addition
Phlox divaricata—wild blue phlox Polygonatum canaliculatum—giant Solomon’s seal Thalictrum dioicum—early meadow rue
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to hiking trails, it also features a handicap-accessible trail, a large outdoor pavilion, outdoor classroom space, a bird-feeding station, and composting toilets.
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GA LLERY STORY BY Karen Peacock | PHOTOGRAPHY BY Ronald Sartini
Building g Bridges In Shepherdstown, an art gallery shares its space for art and more.
T
he country was struggling with the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, so it wasn’t the
most auspicious time to open a new business. “It was a giant leap of faith,” Kathryn Burns says when recalling her decision to open The Bridge Gallery in 2008. An art major and 1985 graduate of the University of Maryland, Burns began her career installing fine art in residential and corporate settings. She also owned a gallery, Antietam Arts, in Boonsboro for four years. In 2008, Wayne Skinner, the owner of Shepherdstown’s Antiques to Art, retired and offered to lease the building to Burns. After some soul-searching, she decided to go for it. Now in its 12th year, her business has not just survived—it’s thrived. Burns renamed the venue The Bridge Gallery because she wished to create a bridge to the community in Shepherdstown, a town of bridges. Burns connects with the gallery’s neighbors by hosting large opening receptions, holiday open houses, and musical events. She displays paintings from her gallery in downtown Shepherdstown during the Contemporary American Theatre Festival, and she will coordinate art for the town’s Kathyrn Burns strives to feature all kinds of art in her gallery, like this painted ceramic jacket by Ginny Singdahlsen.
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GA LLERY
Painting, fashion, and sculpture collide in Ginny Singdahlsen’s art, which draws on the visuals of famous works.
garden tour in May. Then, in August,
Shepherdstown, and most of the
looser brushstrokes. Some of his
Shepherdstown residents will enjoy
others are within 50 miles.
atmospheric paintings lean toward
the gallery’s popular Art Bazaar, which benefits the Animal Welfare Society of Jefferson County. The Bridge Gallery’s show in October will complement the Conservation Film
the abstract.
Landscape painters are well
Seth Hill’s love of the outdoors is
“It was a giant leap of faith.”
evident in his expressive paintings; the artist’s spontaneous paint application is a joy to behold.
—Kathryn Burns
An expert curator, Burns also
Festival held that month. represented at The Bridge Gallery.
seeks out diverse media and
in the rich, dark hues of the gallery’s
David Bottini’s acrylic paintings
uncommon styles when selecting
walls and the comfortable seating
are meticulously layered with
regular and guest artists. The venue
where visitors can relax and take in
multiple glazes. His work has the
features the striking photography
the art at their leisure. A stained-glass
precision of photorealism, but
of Mark Muse, Benita Keller, and
window and a fireplace mantel add to
with a more romantic viewpoint.
Gary Bergel. The abstract work of
the ambience. It’s a surprise to learn
In 2019, Bottini earned the top
Fran Skiles is also a gallery favorite.
of the building’s previous lives as a
award in the Washington County
A former creator of art quilts, Skiles
car repair shop and a nursery.
Museum of Fine Arts’ annual
currently makes collage paintings
Cumberland Valley Artists and
and teaches the medium all over
the surprising variety of world-class
Photographers Exhibition.
the country.
art in the 1,400-square-foot building.
Tim Clayton also paints
While visiting the gallery, you
classical landscapes, but with
might also find Neil Super’s wood
Burns’ staging skills are evident
What keeps people coming back is
Many of the featured artists live in
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GA LLERY
“There is always something creative going on.” —Kathryn Burns
WHEN & WHERE The Bridge Gallery bridgegalleryandframing.com 304-876-2300 8566 Shepherdstown Pike Shepherdstown, West Virginia, 25443
Hours Monday & Tuesday By appointment Wednesday–Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday Noon to 6 p.m. Sunday Noon to 5 p.m.
The Bridge Gallery owner Kathryn Burns also operates a framing shop out of the space to make the most of her location in Shepherdstown.
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GA LLERY
projects made from local trees, Ginny Singdahlsen’s small ceramic jackets that are decorated with details of famous paintings, and TeMahoa Love’s linoleum prints. Love says that she burnishes her work with her grandmother’s silver spoon. Though there is plenty of art, this is no stuffy and static museum. “There’s always something creative going on,” Burns says. About 40 percent of the building is taken up with Burns’ framing studio. There are thousands of samples for clients to choose from, and she dedicates herself to finding the perfect solution for displaying everything from children’s drawings to enormous and complicated pieces. One of her favorite projects is a large shadow box featuring an image of Stan Lee with assorted Marvel Comics gear. Burns has also continued her fine-art installation work in homes and businesses. She’s worked for more than 20 years with The Mansion on O Street, a quirky 100-room hotel in the Dupont Circle district of Washington, D.C. It consists of five interconnected townhouses and is home to dozens of secret doors and passageways. Burns created a door for the hotel, as well as an Elvis Presley-styled countertop for one of its themed rooms. Future ventures for Burns include working on her own art, such as ink drawings with washes. She would also like to make a new outdoor sign that better reflects the gallery’s aesthetic. And she has ideas for further community engagement by using the building for small classes and workshops, drawing groups, and critique nights. “Most of all,” Burns says, “I’ll continue to search out new artists to keep the gallery fresh and relevant.”
The Bridge Gallery exhibits a wide range of painting styles. Artists top to bottom: Calvin Edward Ramsburg, Walt Bartman, and David Bottini.
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GA LLERY
Beyond visual art, such as Seth Hillâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oil-oncanvas piece (top), and Fran Skilesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; abstract acrylic-on-canvas painting (bottom), there is plenty of pottery and sculptural work to enjoy at the gallery.
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COMMUNITY
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Matt Ridgeway
HI STORY STORY BY Bob O’Connor | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF Library of Congress
Sticking g to the Plan Ranson’s original town design stays relevant, 130 years later.
W
hen most Americans think of the planned community movement in this country, the late
Threshold of the Prosperous New South.” Benefits touted
1960s and early 1970s come to mind. Columbia,
to entice prospective companies to relocate or build in
Maryland, is a good example of a town laid out in 1967.
Ranson included “exemption from all malarial diseases …
Planned communities are fully designed at their inception,
social advantages not surpassed by any town of equal size
with extensive details chosen for how the town will grow.
… contiguity to cheap raw materials … and a great arterial
Those same folks may also be surprised that St. Augustine, Florida, is considered the first master-planned community;
railroad system for distribution.” The map of the town was developed by D.G. Howell of
it was founded in 1565. Charleston, South Carolina, was
Washington, D.C. with the help of D.F. Taylor. The map
planned in 1670. Notable cities across the country such as
shows the Beltline Railroad passing through the middle of
Philadelphia, Albany, Williamsburg, Annapolis, and New York
the commercial area to provide product transportation to
City all started as planned communities.
nearby markets. The Beltline Railroad was a spur between
Ranson is one completely planned local community. Established in 1910, the town was far ahead of its time and preceded most of the country’s planned community movement. This year, Ranson celebrates its 110th anniversary.
the Valley Branch of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad and the Norfolk and Western Railroad. Fairfax Boulevard is also pictured as a 100-foot-wide thoroughfare emanating from both sides of the town
Ranson is named after Dr. James Mathew Ranson Jr., a
square. But it wasn’t until recently that the street north of
local dentist whose land was used to create the new town.
the square was widened to the originally planned width.
The community had been planned by the Charlestown
D.G. Howell’s planning map, remarkably, is still used
Mining, Manufacturing, and Improvement Company
by the City of Ranson to name streets, 130 years later.
twenty years earlier. (Charlestown was spelled as one
For instance, Fairfax Circle, near the shopping complex
word until 1912.) The CMM&IC was incorporated on May
straddling Route 9, was added just recently, yet derives
24, 1890. Today, we would probably describe the group as
its name from the original Ranson map.
an economic development commission. The company sold stock certificates for $25 each in a
24
Fancy brochures proclaimed the area as being at “The
The building that now houses Ranson City Hall was designed by local builder Julius B. Holmes and built by
capital campaign with the goal of making the town an
the CMM&IC for $10,700. Over the years, the building
industrial center. Investors received one residential lot for
has served as Charles Town High School, a U.S. Post
every four shares they purchased. Those who invested $450
Office, Ranson Confectionary and Quick Lunch, and as an
received three residential lots and one commercial lot.
apartment building.
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H ISTORY
Best-Laid Plans Go Astray The Th h biggest excitement in Ranson’s histo o came in July 1921. A great history conttr controversy surrounded the A.D. Goetz Harness Factory. The huge four-story factory stood at the corner of 2nd Avenue and George Street,
The CMM&IC attracted a plethora of industry to Ranson. Those original industries included
took up the entire block, and employed
the A.D. Goetz Company (a manufacturer of
over 100 workers. The company
harnesses and saddlery), Shenandoah Brass and
manufactured harnesses and 150
Iron Works, Vulcan Road Machine Company,
styles of horse collars.
Elmer E. Beachley Saw and Planing Mill, and John
A month earlier, the federal
Farrin Boiler and Machine Shop. The factories
government contracted with the
employed hundreds of workers. In recent years, there have been several serious
company to hold a public sale to sell
attempts to bring the towns of Ranson and Charles
$25 million in refurbished harnesses,
Town back together to consolidate services. The
but then the sale was stopped by
idea isn’t new; in 1912, just two years after Ranson
order of President Warren G. Harding.
formed, Mayor J.S. Easterday of Charles Town
A force of 50 federal soldiers and 30
suggested in a letter to the Ranson town council
trucks arrived from Washington on
that the two councils meet and discuss “coming
July 15 to shut down the factory and
to an agreement looking to the consolidation of
confiscate the merchandise.
Ranson and Charles Town, under such new name,
A congressional committee charged
and on perhaps such terms as may be thought to
Goetz company officials with a breach
best promote the interests of both towns.” In a follow-up letter, Easterday even suggested
of faith and criminal conspiracy to
what the new name might be “Charlesboro.”
defraud the federal government. Seven
The City of Ranson was quick to respond,
people connected to the factory were
saying, “It is the sense of the Council of Ranson
indicted and tried in U.S. District Court.
that the present is not a propitious time to
All seven were eventually acquitted.
consider the union of this town with that of Charles Town.”
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HI STORY
The Spirit of Jefferson newspaper reported that “The movement to consolidate Ranson and Charles Town
The Powha Hote
has fallen flat.” Despite its progressive beginnings as a planned
On July 1, 1892, the e
community, the thoughts of Ranson as an industrial
Powhatan Hotel, built by
stronghold are now just fading memories. Most of those
ed Julius B. Holmes, opened
large factory buildings plotted by D.G. Powell and his
to rave reviews. The
peers have been torn down. Only the Ranson City Hall stands as a monument to the work of the Charlestown Mining, Manufacturing, and Improvement Company.
magnificent four-story structure was located on the north side of Third Avenue between Mildred Street and Preston Street. The hotel was described as having rooms carpeted with rugs from Brussels, as well ch he wood walls, silk as cherry upho ols upholstery, oak mantels, and Frencc plate glass. Elegant French wove en woven-wire springs and hair mattrre mattresses were furnished in everyy room. However, the hotel was n not in operation very long. I 1899, the building In b became the Powhatan C College for Young W Women. The college o operated until 1914, and a year later, St. Hilda’s H Hall, a Christian school fo for women, opened in the sspace. The building was d destroyed by fire on Dece em December 11, 1937.
26
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Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about
community.
C Celebrating 25 Years In The Eastern Panhandle To show appreciation to our community for making this milestone possible, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re giving back all year long! For every $2500 spent on each client project, we will be donating $25 EDFN WR FRPPXQLW\ D QRQ SURĂ&#x20AC; W RUJDQL]DWLRQ Clients can choose from: â&#x20AC;˘ Hospice of the Panhandle â&#x20AC;˘ Martinsburg Rescue Mission â&#x20AC;˘ Faith Christian Academy â&#x20AC;˘ Habitat for Humanity :H DUH DOVR KRVWLQJ D PRQWKO\ SUL]H JLYHDZD\ RQ WKH WK of each month! Just visit us on facebook, share our monthly SUL]H SRVW DQG DXWRPDWLFDOO\ EH HQWHUHG WR ZLQ 3UL]HV ZLOO YDU\ EH KRPH UHODWHG DQG YDOXHG DW DSSUR[LPDWHO\ 1R SXUFKDVH UHTXLUHG Just log in and SHARE! THANK YOU to all who have helped us operate this successful EXVLQHVV IRU \HDUV LQ RXU ORFDO FRPPXQLWLHV
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Q& A INTERVIEW BY Emily Keefer | PHOTOGRAPHY BY Ronald Sartini
Q&A With
Jack Meyer Jack Meyer has done many things in his life. For the last six years, after a trip to Costa Rica, he’s been making handcrafted chocolate in Shepherdstown. The frequent 12- or 14-hour days don’t get him down as the thought of happy, chocolate-loving customers keeps him motivated.
HOMETOWN Washington D.C. SECRET TALENT A good sense of humor OCCUPATION Owner and Chocolatier at Appalachian Chocolate Company
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Q& A
A Chocolatier’s Week Q: How old are you? A: I’m 69 years old. Q: What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Monday I roast organic cacao beans. If time allows, I also winnow the beans the same day.
A; My wife and I square dance and travel far and
Tuesday
wide to attend dances. This year we went to Atlanta to the National Square Dance Convention. It was
I get the nibs (crushed pieces of roasted beans)
great fun. We also enjoy hiking, and when we
into stone grinding machines. Each machine will
traveled to Atlanta, we took time on the way there and hiked Mount LeConte in the Smoky Mountains.
make a different flavor of chocolate. I make dark and milk chocolate as well as a chocolate with coffee in it. The stone grinding machines run continuously
Q: What did you want to be when you
for three days to achieve the smooth texture of chocolate that I desire.
grew up? A; When I was growing up, I wanted to be an artist.
Wednesday
I always loved to draw and paint with oils.
I typically add sugar, and when making milk Q: What animal best represents you or
chocolate, I add organic whole-milk powder into the stone grinding machines.
your business? A: I think it would be a coati.
Thursday
They are found in the tropics where cacao comes from.
Usually, I order beans if I need them or other
They are smart and very
ingredients. I like to get outside, and if it’s cold, I like
social critters.
to cut and split firewood. I will also run errands and make local deliveries.
Q: If you could have dinner with anyone,
Friday
still living or from the past, who would it be and why?
I remove the chocolate from the stone grinding
A: I would choose to sit and talk to my father’s uncle,
machines and temper it. Tempering chocolate is a
who was an extremely successful international
heating process that involves aligning the crystals
bootlegger during the Great Depression.
in the chocolate cocoa butter. Tempering gives chocolate its shine and a nice snap when you break
Q: List the markets where you sell at
a piece off of a bar. The tempered chocolate then goes into chocolate bar molds.
and anything else you’d like to add about the business. A: I sell my chocolate bars at the Charles Town Farmers Market and The Shepherdstown Farmers Market, as
Friday is also wrapping day. All the newly made bars are carefully wrapped and made ready for sale at the farmers markets and shops.
well as in many fine shops in the state of West Virginia.
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West Virginia’s Oldest Town...
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV Experience The Friendly, Quaint and Beautiful Atmosphere
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ENTLER HOTEL The Entler, with its beautiful reception room, wide covered porches and lovely garden, has been a favorite spot for weddings and other special events for more than 160 years. A catering kitchen, tables, chairs, and a large buffet serving table are available for your use. We can also assist with information about local businesses that cater, provide flowers, etc.
Celebrating
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YOU KNOW US! YOUR HOMETOWN AGENTS 138 E. German St, Shepherdstown, WV Office: 304-876-3737 • Cell: 304-283-2569 Fax: 304-876-0514 • Jackielewis47@yahoo.com
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REMEMBER THAT FEELING?
Remember that feeling? Waking up to find snow on the ground and school canceled? This is a place where that feeling happens every day. Where the snow is abundant. A winter playground with skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing. But what you will remember most are the smiles, the laughter and the memories that will last a lifetime. Welcome to Seven Springs
WHERE EVERY DAY IS A SNOW DAY! 7springs.com
Story y by C Clarissa ar s C Cottrill | Photography Ph og ph by Steve t Whysall Why ys
When Wh W hen thoroughbreds’ tth ho oouuughb ughbr gghhbbbrrreeds’ s’ racing raccicin i g days day ayyss aare rree oover,r, they hheey hhead eaaadd ttoo Sl SSleeping leepi ping FFox ox ox Farm Fa m to Fa to enjoy eennjoy nnjo jooyy a new joy jo new life. ne lif lif
SLEEPI NG
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FA RM
Every horse at Sleeping Fox Farm has a story, says Angie Francart, who owns the nonprofit thoroughbred rescue with her husband, Gary. The Francarts provide a sanctuary for racehorses who are often left with no place to go once they’re unable to keep earning money in the racing industry. “There is life after the racetrack, and that’s what we’re all about,” Angie says. “The horses have so much more to give, and normally when they’re coming off the racetrack, they’re really young still. They have a whole life ahead of them.” Located in Martinsburg, Sleeping Fox Farm offers sanctuary and rehabilitation for horses that are injured or broken down after years on the track. Angie also competes the horses that are able in eventing and trains budding equestrians to do the same. It’s a way to give the horses a new life and purpose and to show them to potential adopters, she says. The eventing competitions include show jumping, crosscountry navigation, and dressage—which is the art of sand dancing derived from wartime tactics. Eventing highlights the versatility of each horse, Angie says. art feeds Vino Del Porto, one of her Sleeping Fox Farm owner Angie Franc thoroughbred rescues.
Angie and her team do individualized work with every horse that comes to the rescue, often teaching them not only eventing but also social skills and basic training while nursing many of them back to health.
34
S L E E P IN G
Some of the horses that find their way to Sleeping
FA R M
Lucky Bid, a recent rescue, went through years of hard
Fox Farm need more nursing than others, like those
racing and competition before being found abandoned with
with intense injuries or in cases of starvation.
a severe leg injury. “Every horse here has a story—a reason
The farm works with animal control centers in
they ended up here,” Angie says. “We take in the horses that
the surrounding counties of West Virginia and
no one else will. This is their soft place to land.” Though
Maryland to locate horses in need. Many come from
Lucky Bid has to have special equine shoeing every four
nearby racetracks.
weeks—which Angie and Gary pay for—he’s now out of his
The horses that have been sick, injured, or broken
FOX
leg cast and doing great, she says.
down do not continue to race, but rather get to live out their days as part of the farm’s sanctuary herd— meaning they are forever retired. “To the race industry, that’s a worthless horse because it’s not going to make them money … there isn’t a second home for them,” Angie says.
The horses have so much more to g give... —Angie Francart
"
Angie, who has been around horses her entire life, started her rescue journey by happenstance. While continuing her education in the health care field, she became critical of the racing industry and its effect on the horses. She decided to use thoroughbreds as an element of therapy work. She and Gary took in one horse aat a time until the effort snowballed into tthe nonprofit rescue and sanctuary.
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Caring for worn-out racing horses is just one facet of Angie Francart’s vision for Sleeping Fox Farms. As a medical professional, she’s dedicated more time to addressing the wellness needs of people—which, it turns out, horses can have a major effect on. Angie is a board member of the Horses and Humans Research Foundation, which explores the potential benefits of equine interaction for people dealing with a wide range of medical conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder and cerebral palsy. “It’s all about partnering human wellness with equine wellness,” Angie says. Looking forward, she hopes to provide more therapy training for her horses—but even simple interactions can be comforting. “I’ve had volunteers with anxiety about driving and other issues start working with the horses, and the anxiety decreases. … these people come to the Top: Sleeping Fox Farm offers tours and opportunities meet the horses. to the Above: Vino Del Porto has been ab from racing injur le to recover ies at the farm an d has even been ab compete in even le to ting.
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barn to heal,” she says.
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"It's ungodly expensive, but we do it because we love what we do." â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Angie Francart
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Today, she and Gary work with their small team of volunteers to care for a group of 20 horses—and a handful of barn cats—with most of the responsibility falling on the Francart family. Each horse is handled every day and given human interaction and care, Angie says. The horses are all blanketed based on temperature, given a series of individualized nutrition supplements when necessary, provided with medicine, veterinary care, and fed at least one bale of hay per day—which costs $5 each. While that sounds like an around-the-clock job, it doesn’t stop Angie and her husband from working full time off the farm as well. It’s necessary to fund the rescue, according to Angie. Despite being a nonprofit, Sleeping Fox Farm currently receives a low number of donations, so the Francarts are footing almost 100 percent of the myriad costs that come with the operation. “It’s ungodly expensive, but we do it because we love what we do,” Angie says with visible emotion. “I wouldn’t give it up for the world. I would go work at McDonald’s 17 hours a day if I had to just to afford the rescue and make sure my horses are taken care of—just to never lose the farm. … It’s a real fear—we get scared. But then we buckle down and work harder.” Some of the volunteers who work at the farm organize and facilitate fundraisers at local restaurants and stores to offset some of the costs. The fundraisers bring in money and show off the horses, which can lead to adoptions and new spaces for other horses in need, Angie says. Multiple equine companies have partnered with Sleeping Fox Farms to offer support, as well. The equine belt company C4 sells products with Sleeping Fox Farms branding and gives back part of the profits. Kensington Protective Products lets the Francarts buy horse blankets at a special buy-one-getone-free rate; without it, they wouldn’t have enough for all the horses, Angie says. The rescue takes donations in many forms, including through its website at Sleepingfoxfarm.com and via GoFundMe for specific needs. People can also donate their time and volunteer to care for horses, which is a never-ending job. “It’s a lot of work,” Angie says. “But that’s what this rescue is about: doing the right thing for the horses.”
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With a little help from his puppets, Joe Santoro brings magic to life for children all through the year with shows and interactive experiences they canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ďŹ nd anywhere else. Stor y by Karen Gardner
|
Photography by Steve Whysall
W O NDERMENT
PUPPET
T
T HE AT E R
winkling lights. Sparkling walls. Pastel hues. Stepping inside the Wonderment Puppet
screen or to play video games, but to interact in ways
Theater is like stepping into another world, one
that are much more low-tech. The live-action hand-
populated by childhood toys and fairy-tale characters. Joe Santoro first created this world for kids in
puppet shows draw a little from fairy tales, a little from legend, and a lot from Santoro’s imagination.
Martinsburg about 12 years ago, and he’s been adding
They entertain kids and help them tap into their own
to it ever since. He puts on six puppet shows a year
imaginations from the moment they cross into the
and hosts numerous birthday parties. He also takes his
world of the Wonderment Puppet Theater.
puppet shows to schools, festivals and fairs. But the biggest delights are reserved for the
Puppet shows last 25 minutes, but Santoro encourages parents to bring their kids to the theater
small space that serves as the theater. Visitors are
up to 20 minutes before the show and to hang
immersed in Santoro’s world of imagination and
around for up to an hour afterward to get the full
excitement as soon as they step through the door. A
Wonderment experience. There’s so much going on
colorful wishing well awaits. Cheerful, old-fashioned
beyond the puppet shows that Santoro is changing
music is piped in. A puppet stage takes up a corner
the name to simply Wonderment Theater.
of the front room, where visitors can sit on blue
44
Kids come, not to watch television on a large
“It’s not just a puppet theater; it’s an interactive
painted benches decorated with stars, though
theater,” he says. Kids of all ages come to
Santoro says most kids would rather stretch out,
Wonderment, from toddlers to teens. He’s even hosted
wrapped in blankets, on the carpeted floor.
a wedding at the theater.
W ON D E R M E N T
P U P PET
TH EATER
Wonderment Puppet Theater owner and puppeteer Joe Santoro animates a few of his show performers.
THE EXPERIENCE
THE KIDS ARE THE HEART OF THE THEATER watch as it snakes down a yellow roller
and second-graders at Hedgesville
puppeteering and create their own
coaster of a track, around a blue pole,
Elementary School.
characters and shows. To make
through a red bridge, and past some
it easy for the young performers,
flashing bulbs. With a loud click, the
pace of the show and focus on
Santoro offers several plywood
ball lands at the bottom.
the puppets, Santoro records the
Kids can try their hand at
puppet panels, brightly painted
Once kids have had their fill of
To make it easier to control the
scripts in advance. “What happens
and complete with holes for kids to
Santoro’s creations, they settle down
if you have a sore throat or your
stick their puppets through. “They
for the main show. The shows have
timing’s off ?” he says. Friends and
have the option once the show’s
names like “Cinderella’s Sock Hop,”
coworkers help him, as well. Many
over to relax and play,” Santoro says.
“The 3 Pigs Circus,” “Hokie Pokie
shows feature the voice of his wife
Puppets range from potholders
Magic,” “The Frog Prince,” and “Peter
and his brother-in-law. For a recent
shaped like fish to augmented
Rabbit.” These 25-minute puppet
recording of “The Three Billy Goats
stuffed animals. In between are
performances are long enough to
Gruff,” his principal did a perfect
hand puppets and sock puppets,
entertain kids and their parents,
squeaky-voiced little goat.
puppets that wear goofy glasses,
yet short enough to keep kids from
and puppets that have yarn for hair.
losing interest.
There’s even a set of old marionettes Santoro found in a trash bin.
“I write the scripts,” Santoro says;
During each show, Santoro is usually the one crouched beneath the puppet stage, bringing the puppets to life. Kids
he borrows from fairy tales and
are encouraged to respond when the
changes and embellishes them.
characters talk to them, which is often.
at Wonderment. In one corner sits a
Santoro knows how to keep kids
“I can’t hear you,” the puppets call out
Rube Goldberg-like contraption, made
entertained. He’s been an educator
from the stage. What do the kids do?
with brightly colored pipes, tubing, and
for nearly 40 years and now teaches
They yell louder. They either clap or
knobs. Drop a ball into the top, and
art classes to kindergarteners, first-
shake the noisemakers provided.
There’s no shortage of imagination
45
PUPPET
T HE AT E R
Top and middle: The theater is truly interactive, with toys and games literally coming out of the walls. Bottom: Joe Santoro dreams up his next story in his workshop.
W O NDERMENT
MORE TO COME After the show, kids can make up their own puppet shows
ever since that visit, and he
or try out some of the other
once worked at Disney World.
theatrical experiences. “I make
Twelve years ago, Santoro, 67,
all this stuff,” Santoro says. His
bought a small row house in
artistic talent is everywhere,
Martinsburg and transformed
from the colorful paintings on
it. In his imagination, there’s
the wall to the whimsical toys
buried treasure in the house.
stuffed into corners. A photo
“It took us eight months to
booth gives kids a chance to
get this house ready for the
make faces from behind a
theater, but after all these
colorful panel, perhaps with a
years, we still haven’t found the
wig and mustache.
treasure,” he says.
There are mazes, puzzles,
Treasures abound, however.
brain teasers, and more. In the
Santoro’s imagination doesn’t
party room, simply clap your
stop with the bottom floor.
hands, and the twinkling lights
Upstairs is the new Black Sheep
surrounding the room change
Art Gallery, which brings to life
color. Clap some more, and they
Santoro’s philosophy that anyone
continue to change. A colorful
can make art. Using hand
cart holds a birthday cake.
outlines and shapes, he creates
There’s even a throne for the
colorful and imaginative yet
birthday child.
simple scenes of robots, frogs,
“I encourage parents to play with their kids here,” Santoro
dragons, mermaids, and castles. The theater got its name
says. The walls themselves are
from a fellow teacher, who once
painted inviting shades of lime
said the faces of kids watching
green, pastel pink, royal blue,
Santoro’s shows were full of
purple and orange. The puppet
wonderment.
room walls twinkle with little
Through every facet of
metallic flecks that sparkle
Wonderment Theater, Santoro
through the rose paint.
recreates the spirit of Walt
Disneyland’s Enchanted
46
He’s been fascinated by Disney
Disney. “That’s what I want for
Tiki Room, which Santoro
my theater,” he says. “To leave
visited in his childhood, is
the outside world out and come
Wonderment’s inspiration.
into this magical place.”
Wonderment Puppet Theater 412 W. King St. Martinsburg, West Virginia 304-258-4074
Website: wondermentpuppets.wixsite.com/ mysite-1
Instagram: wondermentpuppetsptheater
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