Hagerstown Magazine January/February 2026

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Starting 2026 Strong with Estate Planning

A new year means a chance to get organized, set goals, and take care of what matters most. If “Get my Will or Trust done” has been on your to-do list for a while, this is your sign to make it happen. Imagine starting the year with your Estate Planning completed, knowing your family and legacy are protected. That sense of relief and accomplishment could be one of the most meaningful resolutions you keep this year.

We understand that starting your Estate Planning can feel daunting. Many people delay it because they assume it’s complicated and time-consuming. The truth is, you already know most of what you need to know, and we’ll guide you through the rest.

Estate Planning Made Simple

At the Law Office of Lena A. Clark, we’ve spent over two decades helping Maryland families create Wills and Trusts de signed to protect what matters most. Our clients are consistently surprised by how easy, pleasant, and fast the process is once they begin. Most say, “I wish I had done this sooner.”

Our planning process is designed to take the stress and confusion out of Estate Planning. We don’t just prepare documents, we provide the legal strategy behind them. That means you’ll understand exactly how your plan works, how your assets will pass, and what steps will protect your family for years to come.

You’ll leave your signing appointment with peace of mind, not just a pile of paperwork. And that’s something worth celebrating as the year starts.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time

The start of a new year is the ideal time to set intentions and take care of important life planning. While many people focus on health or finances, establishing or updating your Estate Plan is one of the smartest and most caring resolutions you can make.

Whether you need a Will, Trust, Financial Power of Attorney, or Advance Medical Directive, getting started now ensures that your wishes are clear and your loved ones are prepared for whatever the year brings.

It’s also a great time to review your existing plan, especially if there have been changes in your family, finances, or Maryland estate laws over the past year.

Planning for the future doesn’t have to wait. With our guidance, you can complete your Estate Plan in just a few weeks, and start the year confident that everything and everyone you care about is protected.

If you need help protecting your money and loved ones, call us at 301-969-9364, or self-schedule your consultation at www. lenaclarklegal.com.

Sign up for our newsletter: bit.ly/LOLACnewsletter

26 The Hot List

What’s sizzling in Hagerstown and Washington County? Check out our 2026 list of the best restaurants, spas, wineries, breweries, personal services, and more. See if you agree with other Hagerstown Magazine readers.

38 A WaCo Murder Mystery

Local author James Rada Jr.’s new book tells the story of a Washington County sheriff who was Allegany County’s first hanged murderer.

Ron and Trish Twentey work hard to maintain the Korean War exhibit at the Fort Ritchie History Museum and keep the memories of the Korean War from being forgotten.

47

The My Mini-Mart and Dream Diner in Boonsboro may be small but it packs a big punch with homecooked meals and hand-dipped ice cream.

52 LOCAL FLAVOR

A little roadside trailer that is swinging for the fences houses Home Run Donuts. And it’s a big hit.

58 ON THE ROAD

The small Pennsylvania borough of McClure, north of Harrisburg, celebrates the lowly Navy Bean Soup.

60 SENIOR CALENDAR

62 GROW-IT-ALL

It’s a new gardening year and don’t think January is too early to think about your flowers, fruits, and vegetables.

64 MY WACO LIFE

Is Washington County losing its identity?

A HOT LIST AND COLD WEATHER

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN. JUST WHEN THE POST-HOLIDAY BLUES SET IN, HAGERSTOWN MAGAZINE SWOOPS IN WITH OUR ANNUAL HOT LIST. WELL, LET’S BE HONEST, THIS ISN’T A CURE FOR THE POST-HOLIDAY BLUES, IT JUST GIVES YOU SOMETHING TO DO WHILE YOU PUT OFF DE-DECORATING YOUR ABODE.

As always, we had a great turnout for voting, and the winners are an excellent representation of what our readers think are the best restaurants, best professional services, best entertainment venues basically the best of everything in Washington County.

Also, as always, a number of mainstays are winners in their categories again. But a lot of new “faces” grace this year’s list. We thank our readers who voted for doing their due diligence and voting for the places that they think best represent their categories and not just “mailing it in” with the same old, same old.

Now the research for the 2027 Hot List begins. Get out into the community and try new restaurants, go to new entertainment venues, pay attention to the services you need this year, and if

someone or some company does an exceptional job for you, vote for them next year.

We’re stuck in the throes of another winter, and as I write this in early December (it’s not even winter yet) the temperature feels like February. So, I went to John Gruber’s Hagers-town Town and Country Almanack (yes, that’s the correct spelling) to see what’s in store for us for the rest of the winter. Thankfully, if The Almanack is right, the winter will be “front-loaded” with colder temperatures and above average snowfall giving way to more mild weather as the winter moves on. Here’s hoping.

Grab yourself a warm drink (if The Almanack is correct and it’s blistering cold when you read this) and look through the Hot List. Then enjoy the rest of the stories in the magazine. We have features on local people and places as well as restaurant reviews and advice columns.

Enjoy.

–JeffThoreson jthoreson@hagerstownmag.com

This is Washington County

An old barn near Hancock rests under a new-fallen snow in the beginning of winter. John Gruber’s Hagers-town Almanack, published in the summer of 2025, predicted a “front-loaded” winter with the coldest temperatures and above-average snowfall in December and January. “The second half of the winter will bring very substantial temperature swings, going from well-above average to much colder conditions with limited snowfall. These wild temperature swings will bring occasional gusty winds as well,” The Almanack says. Based on the temperatures we saw in December, so far Gruber is right on the money. Let’s see how the rest of the winter plays out and if The Almanack’s prediction of increased snowfall when compared to the last four years comes true. The Almanack predicts there will be between 21 and 25 inches of snow this year. That’s compared to the last four years in which we saw between 2.0 and 15.9 inches.

THE ARTS |

VAA is the Place for Local Artists

THE ROOTS OF THE VALLEY ART ASSOCIATION DATE TO 1938, and for the better part of a century the VAA has given local artists of all mediums a place to work, display, and sell their art. This year the VAA celebrates its 35th year in the Mansion House in City Park where local art enthusiasts can stroll through the galleries and enjoy the work on display.

But if it weren’t for 11 local artists who met on Oct. 6, 1938, to discuss plans for local participation in the National American Art Week planned for November 1 to 7, Hagerstown might have one less outlet for local artists. While they were talking about their plans, the idea of a permanent organization of local artists was tossed out by Alonzo Rutter. Everyone thought that would be great, so Rutter was appointed to spearhead the Society of Hagerstown Artists.

Less than a year later, the society held an exhibit attended by more than 1,000 people at the B&O train station. Another exhibit the next year drew an equally good crowd. The society was off and running, and its rich history, including name changes to the Hagerstown Art Club and eventually the Valley Art Association, is now well documented.

Meetings were held at the Museum of Fine Arts until 1991 when the VAA moved into the Mansion House Gallery, a mid-1800s house on Highland Avenue in City Park. From here, the VAA has established itself as a vibrant local organization, not only presenting the work of local artists but conducting educational classes and holding community events.

“We also have festivals, picnics, craft shows, and are continually looking for new ideas and ways to serve the community through art,” says VAA president Donna Crow.

The general public can sign up for figure drawing and painting classes every Monday, and other classes taught by local artists are open to the public at minimal cost.

“We have all local artists at the Mansion House with membership around 160 to 170 people,” Crow says. “We are excited to be getting younger members and are exploring ways to include people with

special needs, more young members, and families. We have an amazing group of board members creating new ideas and projects to be presented this coming year.”

Some members rent wall space in the Mansion House where they hang their artwork for anyone to view or purchase. There is also the North Gallery with new hanging exhibits each month. This gives artists who do not have wall space the opportunity to display their work and potentially sell it.

One convenient thing for local artists is the Valley Art Association does not charge commission for artists who sell their work at the Mansion House. Many galleries charge 30 percent to 50 percent commission.

“We are working hard to keep things affordable for everyone,” Crow says. “Many of the artists pass this savings on to the buyers as the artwork created is very reasonably priced.”

Perhaps there is a bit of the spirit of Rutter and the other 10 artists responsible for the VAA’s beginnings.

“I can’t say enough about the kindness and camaraderie I have experienced at Valley Art Association,” Crow says. “It is much more than a building with paintings. It has a special spirit all its own.”

The general public can visit VAA at the Mansion House during open hours on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Memberships are available for $30.

Bowman to Receive 2026 Legacy Award

WITH A B-61 MACK

TRACTOR

and trailer, Donald Bowman began hauling coal in 1959, fulfilling his desire to drive trucks and tractor trailers. Now 66 years later, the Washington County Chamber of Commerce is honoring him with its 2026 Legacy Award, given to recognize individuals who have left a significant impact on Washington County through their career achievements and community service.

Starting with that one truck, the Bowman Group, LLC now offers a wide range of services from the trucking industry to real estate development. The Bowman Group portfolio includes D.M. Bowman, Inc., Bowman Development Corporation, Bowman Hospitality, Bowman Truck Leasing, Bowman Trailer Leasing, and Bowman Logistics.

The success of these businesses has funded the Jone L. Bowman Family Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting capital projects in Washington County.

In 1966, Bowman received its first Interstate Commerce Commission authority and began hauling bricks within a 165-mile radius. Bowman grew the operation from there by transporting petroleum products and expanded to the Middle Atlantic states.

Bowman began leasing trailers and by 1974, the company was incorporated and soon achieved the million-dollar annual sales mark. Bowman moved the company to Williamsport, where it remains today.

The trucking and leasing company continued to expand in the Middle Atlantic and now has a fleet of 382 trucks and eight terminals on the East Coast. In the 1980s, Bowman became interested in real estate, and he started Bowman Development. The company’s first project was building Bowman Business Park.

Beginning in 2001, the real estate company began building hotels, opening the Holiday Inn Express on Railway Lane. That was followed by Homewood Suites by Hilton, Ramada Plaza (now Loft 620), and Home2 Suites. Bowman Hospitality most recently announced the construction of Tru by Hilton.

With all his success, Bowman finds it important to give back to the community. He has donated to the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, Breast Cancer Awareness, Doey’s House (Hospice of Washington County), and the American Cancer Society through D.M. Bowman’s Annual Jone Bowman Memorial Golf Tournament.

Bowman has given back to the Humane Society of Washington County by opening his home to host the Annual LuHowl fundraising event, as well as his capital campaign pledge through the Jone L. Bowman Family Foundation. The Foundation donated $6 million to the new Meritus School of Osetopathic Medicine.

Bowman has had a resounding positive impact on Washington County throughout his life, and has provided many local individuals with job opportunities, as the eighth largest employer in the area.

Bowman and his wife, Mary, reside in Williamsport. They have four children, nine grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Bowman enjoys farming, antique car and truck collecting and restoration, walking, and golf.

The Legacy Award will be presented at the Business Awards event, taking place from 5-9 p.m., February 25, 2026, at The Maryland Theatre.

Business Award Finalists

The Washington County Chamber of Commerce has announced finalists in eight categories for their upcoming 27th Annual Washington County Business Awards. Winners will be announced February 25 at The Maryland Theatre.

At Your Service Award: Hagerstown Children’s School, Rest Haven Funeral Home and Cemetery, Rider Jet Center, Inc.

Small Non-Profit of the Year: Augustoberfest Charitable Foundation, Hagerstown Home Store, Maryland Symphony Orchestra

Large Non-Profit of the Year: The Arc of Washington County, Community Rescue Service, Inc., Girls, Inc. of Washington County

Small Business of the Year: Hagerstown Health: Chiropractic and Physical Therapy, One Room Media, Pathfinder Farm Distiller

Medium Business of the Year: Bushey Feight Morin Architects, Inc., Hagerstown Flying Boxcars, Hub City Brewery

Large Business of the Year: Conservit, Inc., Fives Landis Corp., Mountain View Animal Emergency

Young Professional of the Year: Dr. Jacob Ashby, Allison Lanham, Brittany Wedd

Business Person of the Year: Aaron House, Addie Nardi, F. Christian Wright IV

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!

Pickleball Expands in Hagerstown

PICKLEBALL REMAINS THE FASTEST-GROWING SPORT IN America, and the opening of a new indoor, multi-court facility on Sweeney Drive will make access to the sport much easier here in Hagerstown.

Dill Dinkers, a rapidly growing indoor pickleball club franchise, opened in December offering a fun, friendly, and welcoming environment where players of all skill levels can play, socialize, and take part in the game recreationally or competitively. The club adds courts to the limited number of indoor places to play in Hagerstown, which until now included only the YMCA and the new Hagerstown Field House.

The new club fulfills a growing demand for dedicated indoor pickleball in Washington County and Western Maryland. The facility has eight indoor and four outdoor courts with fences, a ball machine, a pro shop powered by Pickleball Central, and a state-of-the-art online reservation system to help players avoid long lines and wait times.

Memberships are available but are not required to play at the facility. Members pay less for court time than the general public. Dill Dinkers’ expansive schedule makes it possible to play with other players on the same level in daily schedules catered to DUPR or selfrated players.

Rooted in their deep love for pickleball and the welcoming community surrounding it, local owners Elly and the McCarthy family chose Hagerstown for its vibrant, fast-growing sports culture and strong appetite for year-round recreation.

“Hagerstown has an energy and togetherness that makes it the perfect home for a Dill Dinkers club,” says Elly McCarthy. Dill Dinkers brings climate-controlled courts, leagues, clinics, and communitydriven programming to players of all ages and experience levels.

Dill Dinkers also has dedicated event space, providing the opportunity for individuals to host parties, celebrations, or corporate bonding events.

The Hagerstown Public Square

OF NOTE |

Speeding Along

THE HAGERSTOWN AVIATION MUSEUM HAS RECEIVED another piece of aviation history, but it’s not an airplane. On longterm loan from the Museum of American Speed in Lincoln, Nebraska, a race car with an airplane engine is now on display. The engine, known as the “Ranger,” was manufactured by the Fairchild Engine Division and used by Fairchild to power the Fairchild PT-19 trainer of the 1940s. After World War II the in-line six-cylinder air-cooled engines could be purchased for about $50. Racing enthusiasts modified the 440-cubic-inch engine to produce about 400 horsepower. Many found their way into race cars in the 1950s and won numerous races. Also, in October the museum received an A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft for permanent display. Both are on display at the Hagerstown Aviation Museum.

FENRIS GAMING, A PREMIER TABLETOP GAMING RETAILER and community hub has opened in College Plaza. Owned by Adam Francis, Pamela Francis, Jonathan Blank, and James Cuff, Fenris Gaming specializes in Games Workshop products, including Warhammer 40,000, Age of Sigmar, and Citadel hobby paints. The store also offers a wide variety of card gaming systems such as Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon.

Fenris Gaming was founded out of a passion for community, connection, and the shared love of gaming. Twelve years ago, Adam Francis began hosting a small gaming club in his home—a place where friends could gather, compete, and celebrate their favorite tabletop and hobby games. Over the years, that club grew into a thriving local community of players and enthusiasts, inspiring the creation of the Fenris Gaming Hall.

SPICHERS APPLIANCE & SECURITY, A FAMILY-OWNED LEADER in home appliances and security systems since 1955, has opened a new location in West Virginia. The opening coincides with Spichers’ 70th anniversary.

The new center, located at 71 Lansdale Court, Martinsburg, West Virginia, marks the company’s continued growth and commitment to serving the tri-state area with top-quality appliances, home electronics, and expert security systems.

“For 70 years, Spichers has been dedicated to delivering exceptional service and reliable products to our communities,” said company president Callan Spicher. “This new location allows us to better serve the growing area while celebrating a legacy built on trust, family values, and personalized service.”

Founded in 1955 in Hagerstown, Spichers has grown from a single appliance shop into a regional company with locations across Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Despite the growth, the company remains rooted in its original mission: to treat every customer like family.

ALBRIGHT CRUMBACKER MOUL & ITELL (ACMI) MARKS A half-century of providing accounting and financial services in the Tri-State area. Founded in 1975, ACMI has been a trusted partner to individuals and businesses of all sizes, delivering expert accounting, bookkeeping, tax planning and preparation, audit and assurance, and consulting services.

“We’re embracing the future with the same values that have guided us for 50 years—excellence, trust, and personalized service,” says Randy Rachor, partner at ACMI.

With a client-centric approach and a team of experienced Certified Public Accountants, ACMI has built a reputation for excellence, integrity, and long-term client relationships. The firm’s commitment to helping clients achieve financial success has remained steadfast throughout the past 50 years of economic change and technological evolution.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we reflect on the trust our clients have placed in us and the dedication of our incredible team,” says partner R. Kert Shipway. “Our 50th anniversary is not just a celebration of our past—it’s a launchpad for our future.”

CALENDAR

january to february

February 28

Mountain Music & Moonshine 2026

The Capitol Theatre

159 SOUTH MAIN STREET, CHAMBERSBURG, PA.

Some of the area’s best bluegrass bands perform a musical rodeo at the 2026 Mountain Music & Moonshine event. This year the amazingly talented Remington Ryde will be the headline act. Whiskey, bourbon, beer, wine, and moonshine will be available starting when the doors open at 6 p.m., Non-alcoholic drinks and concessions are also available. Enjoy your drinks and snacks throughout the night as you sit back and relax or get up and dance to this banjo-picking concert made for the genre’s history books. 7 p.m. 717-263-0202 or www.thecapitoltheatre.org

January-February 29-01

IceFest PA

Downtown Chambersburg

100 LINCOLN WAY EAST, CHAMBERSBURG, PA.

IceFest is a four-day festival with the streets of Chambersburg lined with ice sculptures. The event is labeled as the largest ice festival in Pennsylvania and offers visitors a chance not only to witness a live carving of enormous sculptures or ride a free ice slide but enables them to take part in a chili cook-off and the icing on the cake decorating contest. More sporty visitors can join the Run Your Ice Off 5K. Laid-back visitors will enjoy a free movie, Polar Dunk Tank, a scavenger hunt, kids’ obstacle course, and glass blowing demonstrations. 717-263-8529 or www.icefestpa.com

January Sundays

Hagerstown Model Railroad Museum

Open House

17230 SHEPHERDSTOWN PIKE, SHARPSBURG

Model railroads will be operating in HO, O, N, and S scale. See the trains while learning about the history of the railroad and Antietam Station. Admission is free but donations are welcome. The Hagerstown Model Railroad Museum is a non-profit organization incorporated in 1937 and is active in promoting the hobby to the general public.

January

10

Delta Spur—Modern Country Tribute

Live at Hub City Vinyl

28 EAST BALTIMORE STREET, HAGERSTOWN

Delta Spur is Northern Virginia’s hometown country cover band, known for high-energy performances that blend current country hits with timeless classics. With a polished, dance-floor-ready sound, Delta Spur delivers songs from artists like Morgan Wallen, Lainey Wilson, Zach Topp, Jason Aldean, and Zac Brown Band, while also throwing in crowd favorites like “Fishin’ in the Dark” and “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.” 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. www.liveathubcityvinyl.com

January 23

The ABBA Reunion Tribute Show

Maryland Theatre

21 SOUTH POTOMAC STREET, HAGERSTOWN

The ABBA Reunion Tribute Show is the creation of an award-winning West End director, producer, and choreographer. ABBA Reunion gives Abba fans the opportunity to re-live the addictive Abba phenomena that swept the airwaves and discos during the 1970s and 80s. From Mamma Mia to Dancing Queen, all of the greatest hits are performed authentically from both an audio and visual perspective, including a jaw-dropping finale. Superbly accurate vocals, harmonies, guitar, keyboards, plus back line musicians combined with stunning iconic replica costumes, choreography, and set produce the most authentic and requested Abba tribute show in the world. 7:30 p.m. 301-790-2000 or www.mdtheatre.org

January 24

Beginnings: A Celebration of the Music of Chicago

Maryland Theatre

21 SOUTH POTOMAC STREET, HAGERSTOWN

Beginnings—A Celebration of the Music of Chicago brings the magic of a live Chicago performance to life and exceptionally recreates their enormous songbook of contemporary hits. The music of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Chicago spans more than five decades and includes five No. 1 albums and more than 20 Top 10 hits. The band transports the listener back to a time of big arena concerts with all the sound, excitement, and emotion generated from Chicago’s extensive catalog of gold and platinum recordings. 7:30 p.m. 301-790-2000 or www.mdtheatre.org

February 7

The Soaring 70s

Maryland Theatre

21 SOUTH POTOMAC STREET, HAGERSTOWN

Few decades in the music industry are as star-studded as the 1970s—a dazzling decade of greats—with more hits, hit-makers, and musical styes, from disco, funk, hard rock, heavy metal, and sythn-pop to soft rock, smooth jazz, progressive rock, punk rock, and new country. Audiences already know all the lyrics. They just need a place to show up and sing them. David King and the Gold Diamond Band re-create the magic of Bad Company, Earth Wind and Fire, Billy Joel, Lynyrd Skynrd, James Taylor, Queen, Stevie Wonder, The Commodores, The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Alabama, and more. Backing these iconic hits is a dynamic video wall highlighting what makes the 1970s an era to remember. 7:30 p.m. 301-790-2000 or www.mdtheatre.org

The Soaring 70s

February 7

Galentine’s Day III with Comedian Karen Morgan

Capitol Theatre

159 S MAIN STREET, CHAMBERSBURG, PA.

Our Galentine’s event makes a return with comedienne Karen Morgan. A former trial attorney, Morgan began her professional comedy career as a finalist on Nickelodeon Television’s “Search for the Funniest Mom in America.” Since then, she has performed in comedy clubs and theaters from New York to Hollywood. Her latest CD “Mean Candy” can be heard on Sirius XM Radio, and her comedy specials can be seen on Dry Bar Comedy. Her TV appearances include comedy shows and ads for companies like Wal-Mart and Zyrtec. 7 p.m. 717-263-0202 or www.capitoltheatre.org

February 27

Friday Night Fever: The NY Bee Gees

Maryland Theatre 21 SOUTH POTOMAC STREET, HAGERSTOWN

The New York Bee Gees tribute show is comprised of some of Long Island, New York’s, most versatile and exceptionally talented players. The band includes present or former members of well-known acts, including The Alan Parsons Project, Happy Together Tour, Meatloaf, Queen, Blue Oyster Cult, Riot, Herman’s Hermits, Enrique Iglesias, The Rippingtons, and more. Based in New York the show has played to sell-out shows at The Paramount Theater and BB King NYC. Performances are regularly at The NYCB Theater at Westbury, Resorts World Casino, Empire Casino, and the Suffolk Theater. The NY Bee Gees tribute show presents the most extravagant Bee Gees show a fan can experience, offering the classic 1970s disco hits from Stayin’ Alive to Night Fever while embracing their early works as well. The New York Bee Gees delivers songs from every decade of the Bee Gees catalog with a stunning production, powerful vocals, and a professional stage presence. 7:30 p.m. 301-790-2000 or www.mdtheatre.org

The Kelly Bell Band The Hall 7704 OLD NATIONAL PIKE, BOONSBORO

The Kelly Bell Band plays a genre-bending style of music that fuses blues with soul, funk, rock, reggae, and hip-hop. Experience the iconic Vanish Hall, where the atmosphere is just right for a night out with friends and fellow music lovers. Spend the whole day at the Boro Live complex, which includes Branded Chophouse (open 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.) which offers handcrafted signature cocktails, delicious entrees, and rotating chef’s specials. 8 p.m.301-799-1204 or www.borolivemaryland.com/vanish-hall

Culture & Cocktails

Washington County Historical Society program helps local residents preserve their history and get to know their roots

Culture and Cocktails isn’t just a lecture. It’s an immersive engagement as soon as you step through the front door of the Miller House, a pristinely restored and well-kept home dating back to the 1860s that has served as the headquarters of The Washington County Historical Society and a local history museum since 1966.

By Laura Forrest Hopfauf

There’s the wallpaper that’s as detailed and ornate as a painting. There’s the restored antiques—mirrors and lamps, clocks and mantels—that hold the kind of promise things bought today from box stores often don’t, one of lasting quality, one of investment and craftmanship. There’s the massive circular staircase in the middle of the house that hangs quite literally as a piece taking a step out of time, an active call to the past, a pathway to our predecessors. And outside the back door there is a lawn that feels like an oasis in the middle of downtown.

Home to more than 20,000 historical artifacts, history hangs in every corner of the Miller House, not as an oppressive professor spewing facts but as a relaxed friend with a drink in their hand, a story to tell, and an open seat at their table. And that’s how Culture and Cocktails feels as an event, too.

Established in 2017, Culture and Cocktails happens the second Friday of every month from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Miller House and consists of a historical lecture paired with a themed cocktail. Typically, guests arrive 15 to 30 minutes ahead of time. Admission includes one free drink ticket.

“We offer refreshments, currently catered by Tara’s Table. We offer a special cocktail of the evening,” says Abigail Koontz, curator and program manager of the Washington County Historical Society. “The talk begins at 6 p.m. when we introduce our speaker, there is an intermission halfway through the speaker’s talk, and the talk typically ends by 7:30 pm. Although some speakers use the entire twohour time slot.”

Topics at Culture and Cocktails are as varied as their matching drinks. Speakers have focused on everything from archaeology to family histories to architecture to individual life stories. Drinks in the past year have included Cranberry Pomegranate Bellini, the Salty Dog, a Harvey Wallbanger, and one of the prior owners of the Miller House, Dr. Victor Miller’s personal punch recipe.

Ultimately Culture and Cocktails is a space for people to share history and keep it going into the future.

“I love that Culture and Cocktails provides an opportunity for people to share their historical passions, projects, and interests with the public. Many of our speakers have poured their hearts and careers into the historical topics they share at Culture and Cocktails,” Koontz says.

The attendees at Culture and Cocktails aren’t only history buffs. People have found their way to the event through all different sorts of channels. For some it was a pure love of history. For others, it was a way to meet people and be more involved in their community. More than a few came to the Miller House on

a quest to learn about their own family history by using the kinship Family Heritage Research Center, a genealogy library containing diaries, maps, books, letters, and other materials to help visitors research their ancestral roots, housed in the lower level of the Miller House, and found themselves wanting to be more involved with the Washington County Historical Society. But everyone here is welcoming and open to discussing whatever personal quest brought someone to the Miller House.

Laura Lane-Unsworth, vice president of the Washington County Historical Society, promises, “We have something for everyone.”

Overall, Culture and Cocktails is a great introduction to the Washington County Historical Society. A non-profit organization with more than 360 members that support

and preserve our local history in a way that is meaningful and accessible to all. Whether you’re looking for an interesting way to enjoy a cocktail on a Friday night, where your great-grandfather lived in Washington County, or the history of an older home you own, Washington County Historical Society is here and wants to help.

“The Washington County Historical Society exists to preserve Washington County’s history. We are passionate about keeping our county’s history alive and sharing its history with our membership and the public,” Koontz says. “Our staff and volunteers work daily to preserve historical artifacts, photography, and documents, and our programs are built to share Washington County’s history with the public as much as we can.”

The only thing constant, or so “they” say, is change. And like everything else, our annual readers’ poll has evolved. New categories, new winners—for a small city like Hagerstown and a rural county like Washington, the favorite things about our area is in a constant state of flux.

This year’s “Hot List” includes new names, including the Brick House Tavern (winner for best new restaurant), Tara Cluck of Tara’s Table (winning both best caterer and best chef), F. Christian Wright of Wright-Gardner (best insurance agent), and the complete turnover of the financial planners category.

Of course, the mainstays of Hagerstown remain our readers’ favorites Schula’s Grill & Crab House, Bistro 11, Rik’s Cafe, and J’s Diner among the eateries; and businesses like Valley Mall, Slow Down Barbershop, and BodyWorks Massage Center. Keeping up with the times, we’ve even added new categories, including best dispensary (won by RISE Medical and Adult Use Marijuana Dispensary).

The questions and disagreements will never end, which has been the case for as long as we’ve been putting together the Hot List. Whenever you ask a group of people to name their favorite restaurant, fitness center, or coffee shop, there is a decent chance a debate will flare up. It only makes sense, then, that a readers’ poll attracts a strong response.

So, look on the following pages and see for yourself. What are your opinions about this year’s winners?

Accounting Services

Saunders Tax & Accounting Inc.

NYT CPA

SEK, CPAs & Advisors

Alternative Health

Structural Elements

Kairos Rejuvenation

Hagerstown Health: Chiropractic & Physical Therapy

Antique Store

Antique Crossroads

Beaver Creek Antique Market

Route 11 Antique Mall

Auto Dealer

Younger Toyota

Hagerstown Honda

Sheehy Auto Group

Auto Repair

C&G Repairs

Unlimited, LLC.

Eby’s Garage

Dwayne’s Auto Repair

Bank

Middletown Valley Bank

Orrstown Bank

CNB Bank

Bed & Breakfast

Elmwood Farm B&B

Beaver Creek Inn & Spa

Inn BoonsBoro

Businesses 2026 Winners

Barber Shop

Slow Down Barbershop & Lounge

Razor’s Edge Barber Shop

Cape and Blade

Child Care

Bright Beginnings

Childcare

Little Jacks Corner

My Favorite Place

Cleaning Service

Merry Maids

Ace of Maids Cleaning Service

TY Corporate Dynamics

Computer Service & Support

Innovative, Inc.

My Tech Computer Repair

Clark Computer Services

Day Spa

Sagittarius Salon & Spa

Bella Salon and Spa

Bodyworks Massage Center

Dental Practice

Hagerstown Smiles Dental Care

River City Dental

Allegany Dental Care

Dispensary

RISE Medical and Adult Use

Marijuana Dispensary

District Cannabis

Simple Pleasures

Electrical Contractor

Ellsworth Electric, Inc.

MEC, Inc.

ElectricWurx

Family Medicine

Partners In Pediatrics and Adult Care

Leatherman Healthcare, LLC.

Johns Hopkins Community Physicians

Fitness Facility

OneLife Fitness

Crunch Fitness

Planet Fitness

Florist

Rooster Vane Gardens

Charles A. Gibney Florist & Greenhouse

TG Designs

Flooring

Burkholder’s Flooring America

Carpet Gallery

Red Barron Flooring

Garden Supply

Center

Sunny Meadows Garden Center

Eby’s Lawn & Garden

Lovell’s Nursery

Hair Salon

Bella Salon and Spa

Sagittarius Salon & Spa

Lotus Moon Beauty Lounge

Heating/Air Conditioning

Integrity HVAC

Larry & Sons Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Drain & Electrical

Cumberland Valley Heating & Air Conditioning

Homebuilding/

Renovations

Corbin Builders & Remodeling  Facelift Remodeling Inc.

Kellgard General Contracting

Insurance Agency

Wright-Gardner Insurance

Cumberland Valley Insurance

Bowers Insurance Agency

Law Firm

HWK Law Group, LLC.

The Poole Law Group

Metzner & Houpt

Landscaping/Lawn Care

C&M Lawns

Eby’s Lawn & Garden

Yetters Lawn Care Services

Marketing Services

HighRock

One Room Media

DatAchieve Digital

Massage Therapy

Bodyworks Massage Center

Structural Elements

Five Senses Massage and Spa

Men’s Clothing

Ingram’s Mens Shop

Men’s Wearhouse

Kohl’s

Moving/Storage

Two Men and a Truck Moving and Storage

Parks’ Moving & Hauling Services

Hilker’s Office Moving & Residential LLC

Non-Profit

Community Foundation of Washington County MD, Inc.

Brooke’s House

Girls on the Run

Pet Grooming/Wash

Central Dawgma And Dawg Wash

Dog-Gone Groomin

Pawsabilities Pet Salon

Pet Sitting/Walking

Platinum Paws Pet Services

Pet-Agrees Pro Pet Sitters

Mid-Maryland Pet Sitting

Plumbing

PlumbingWurx LLC

TriState Home Services

Martz Plumbing, Heating & A/C, Inc.

Real Estate Office

CENTURY 21 Market Professionals

Black Diamond Realty

Mackintosh Realtors

Second-Hand Shop

Act II NXT

Finders Keepers Fine Consignments

Horizon Goodwill Industries

Senior Living Community

Homewood Living Williamsport

Fahrney-Keedy Senior Living Community

Emerald Pointe

Shopping Center

Valley Mall

Long Meadow Shopping Center

Centre at Hagerstown

Specialty Medical

Structural Elements

Hagerstown Health: Chiropractic & Physical Therapy

Elite Performance Institute

Specialty Retail

Howard’s Art Supplies & Custom Framing

TG Designs

Guitar Center

Tattoo Shop

Olde Line Tattoo Gallery

Burnside Tattoo

Yours Truly Tattoo, LLC

Towing/Roadside Service

D & D Truck Repair & Towing, Inc.

Reliable Towing & Recovery, LLC

Blue Gray Towing

Travel Agency

Dream Vacations

Trips Made Real

Richards World Travel

Wedding Venue

Green Hill Farm

Elmwood Farm B&B

Lakeside Hall at Fort Ritchie

Women’s Clothing

LOFT Outlet

Kohl’s

Urban Violet Boutique

Professionals

2026 Winners

Banking Professional

Kathy Swope, Orrstown Bank

Abraham Perez, Middletown Valley Bank

Carmen Fox, Ameriserv Bank

Financial Planner

Cortnie Beaver, Skye Wealth Management

Brian Yurek, Edward Jones

Darrell Evans, CFI Financial Advisors

Insurance Agent

F. Christian Wright, Wright-Gardner

Scott Powell, State Farm Insurance

Gaye McGovern, State Farm Insurance

Medical Specialist

Gwenn Leatherman, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC—

Leatherman Healthcare

Dr. Brenna Bacon Ranieli, Hagerstown Health

Dr. Larry Shranatan, DO—Johns Hopkins

Family Medicine

Personal Trainer

Thomas Burge, Elite Performance Institute

Tina Fraley, Power House Studios

Sue Fahey, Ruff Fitness Training Center

Photographer

Chelsea Rae Photos LLC

Julie Zeger Photography  Myerly & Lowe Photography

Real Estate Agent

Patti Perez, Samson Properties

Crystal Pheulpin, Black Diamond Realty

Julie Fritsch, Mackintosh Realtors

Veterinarian

Dr. Tara Cumley, Animal Health Clinic of Funkstown

Dr. Deanna Becker, Northpaws

Animal Hospital

Park Circle Animal Hospital

Hot List Highlight

Dreaming of a VacationGreat

For a small city, Hagerstown has a bigtime travel agent. Nicole Myers of Dream Vacations has been honored with several national awards in the last few years.

“For a local business like ours, having this level of industry recognition is something we’re incredibly proud of,” Myers says. We asked her how she survives as a travel agent in the digital world.

What is your secret for a travel agent to survive in the digital age?

The secret isn’t competing with the internet. It’s offering what the internet simply can’t. Anyone can search for a hotel or cruise online. What they can’t get is a trusted expert who understands their travel style, anticipates their needs, protects their investment. My clients get the strength of a national powerhouse paired with the personalized care of a dedicated advisor who knows them by name, not by booking number.

Because of the volume of business our network produces, my clients receive exclusive perks, amenities, special pricing, and loyalty benefits they simply won’t find online.

My role is to cut through the noise, curate the best options, and handle every detail.

Still the travel agency business has changed quite a lot, hasn’t it?

Absolutely. Years ago, travel agents were primarily order-takers. Today, we’re experienced designers, risk managers, destination experts, and advocates. The role has evolved from transactional to transformational.

Clients no longer need someone to book a trip. They need someone to curate one. Someone who understands travel policies, navigates disruptions, and ensures the experience is seamless from the moment they dream about a destination to the moment they return home.

The digital age didn’t eliminate the need for travel advisors. It actually highlighted it.

With endless online options, people crave clarity, confidence, and a professional they can trust.

What would a nice international vacation be for the average local resident?

For many residents of Washington County, a wonderful and surprisingly affordable international vacation is a cruise. Ocean cruises take you to the countries, letting you sample multiple destinations in one trip, while river cruises take you through the heart of a country for a more immersive cultural experience.

And when people hear “international,” they often think of Europe or far-away destinations, but the Caribbean and Mexico are international, too, and they’re some of the most accessible, budget-friendly places.

Many people are surprised by how cost-effective cruising can be once they see what’s included. With the right timing, promotions, and planning, international travel, whether it’s the Caribbean, Mexico, or Europe, can be far more attainable than they ever imagined.

When working with travelers, what is the biggest issue you help them overcome?

The biggest issue I help travelers overcome isn’t just money or time, it’s being overwhelmed. The internet gives thousands of choices, constantly shifting prices, and a lot of conflicting opinions. It becomes stressful quickly. I help clients clarify what they want and match them with the right destination, resort, cruise, or experience.

Ultimately, the real issue I solve is stress.

We are truly thankful for the many years of support we have received. Thank you all! See you August 15-16, 2026!

www.augustoberfest.org 301.991.1329 780 Frederick Street Hagerstown, MD 21740

AUGUSTOBERFEST

Thank you so much to everyone who has supported us. We are honored to be a part of the 2026 HagerstownMagazineHot List. We look forward to continuing to provide our community with quality childcare that meets the needs of all children.

Thank you to all of my clients for your support! I wouldn’t be where I am without each and every one of you! Thank you for your votes!

www.chelsearaephotosllc.com Chelsearaephotos@outlook.com

Your support means everything! We’re honored to be recognized in Hagerstown Magazine’s HotList and grateful to serve such an incredible community. At CNB, we’re right here—helping our neighbors, businesses, and hometowns thrive.

Hot List Highlight

Tara’s (Large) Table

Tara Cluck started cooking at a young age. “I fell in love with both the creativity and the connection it brings,” she says. Over time, that passion grew into a calling.

Her career path led her to LongHorn Steakhouse, where she cooked for many years. But being stuck to a recipe template with no freedom for creativity eventually wore on her. She made the leap to work at Rik’s Cafe, where she was able to be more creative and create daily lunch and dinner specials.

“This fueled my fire to want to become more, so I applied for the head chef position at The Grille at Runways,” she says of the job she held from 2019 to 2023. “I eventually took the leap and built Tara’s Table from the ground up.”

Her decades of cooking in Hagerstown has won her considerable recognition, and this year, Cluck won the Hot List categories of best caterer and best chef. Her experience at LongHorn helped her develop a talent for large-volume cooking and her time at Rik’s and Runways honed her creativity. Now, Tara’s

Table does both large catering events as well as preparing individual meals for families.

Her large clients can choose from customized menus based on their event style and dietary needs. She handles the food preparation, setup, any requested service, and breakdown. She also offers drop-off catering, where the food is delivered ready to serve.

“In addition to catering, I run a weekly gourmet meal prep service called Black Apron Eats,” she says. “Each Thursday morning, I release a new menu featuring a weekly quiche, soup, several salads, a sandwich, multiple entrées, desserts, and freezer meals. Orders are due by Sunday at 4 p.m. Everything is cooked fresh on Monday and delivered every Tuesday.”

She even has an option for families on a budget with her freezer meals for customers who want quick, ready-to-heat meals to keep on hand.

Cluck grew up in Chambersburg but has spent most of her career as a chef in Hagerstown.

“Over the years, I built strong connections in Hagerstown’s culinary scene, and it ultimately inspired me to launch my business here,” she says. “I heard about the incubator program at Hagerstown Community College, and it has been invaluable in the start and growth of my business. I am so grateful for the resources, the mentors, and the connections provided by HCC.”

She also prepares holiday meals to take the pressure off people who dread cooking for their holiday guests. Her Thanksgiving menu, for example, featured roasted turkey breast (obviously) but also maple balsamic pork loin, mushroom truffle filet mignon, sausage and apple stuffing, Maryland crab dip, and a pumpkin cheesecake pie for dessert.

Food has been a big part of Cluck’s life, and local residents are lucky she shares that passion with them.

Asian Restaurant

House of Kobe

Nikko Japanese Steak and Seafood

Bangkok On Franklin

Bakery

Safron Bakery & Cafe

Sanders’ Cookie Jar Bakery

Krumpe’s Do-Nut Shop

Breakfast

J’s Diner

Williamsport Diner LLC

Hub City Diner

Brewery

Antietam Brewery

Cushwa Brewing Company

Hub City Brewery

Burger

The Broad Axe

Bistro 11 & Lounge

Fosters on the Point

Catering

Tara’s Table

Leiter’s Fine Catering, Inc.

Rhubarb House

Chef

Tara Cluck, Tara’s Table

Jose Delgado, Bistro 11 & Lounge

Eric Frush, Schula’s Grill & Crab House

Eateries 2026

Winners

Coffee House

Cannon Coffee

Rooster Moon Coffeehouse

River Bottom Roasters

Crab Cake

Schula’s Grill & Crab House

Gordon’s Grocery

Nick’s Airport Inn

Dessert

Krumpe’s Do-Nut Shop

Bistro 11 & Lounge

Rik’s Cafe

Farmer’s Market

Pennsylvania Dutch Market

The Market Hub, LLC

Boonsboro Farmers Market

Food Truck

Bella’s Bites

Rollin’ Smoke Meats N Sweets

Cluck‘n Around BBQ

Happy Hour

Fosters on the Point

The Broad Axe

Bistro 11 & Lounge

Ice Cream/Frozen Treat

Maugansville Creamery

The Meadows Original Frozen Custard  Sweetsies Eats & Treats

Italian

Café Roma Ristorante

Dolce

Café Italia Restaurant & Pizzeria

Latin-American

El Ranchero

Fajita Grande Mexican Restaurant & Bar

Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant

New Restaurant

The Brick Tavern of Hagerstown

Veva’s on Potomac

Williamsport Diner

Outstanding Service

Bistro 11 & Lounge

Rik’s Cafe

Veva’s on Potomac

Overall

Restaurant

Bistro 11 & Lounge

Rik’s Cafe

The Grille at Runways

Pizza Shop

Rocky’s New York Pizza

Brothers Pizza

Rad Pies

Thank you for nominating me and Leatherman Healthcare in two categories for the Hagerstown Magazine Hot List 2026. Your support means the world to us. We’re honored to serve this community and grateful for your trust every day.

118 E. Oak Ridge Drive Hagerstown, MD 21740

301.678.1839

www.leathermanhealthcare.com

LEATHERMAN HEALTHCARE, LLC

Thank you all for your support! Being nominated and placed on the Hot List 2026 means the world to us at Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant. We’re grateful, inspired and ready to keep serving you.

29 N. Burhans Blvd. Hagerstown, MD 21740

240.420.8000 www.dinelosamigos.com

Thank you to our wonderful community for your continued support. We know how meaningful it is to have a team you can trust with your furred and feathered loved ones. We’re honored each time you choose us to be part of your pet’s healthcare journey.

21257 Leitersburg Pike Hagerstown, MD 21742

240.513.6030 www.northpawsanimalhospital.com

The Poole Law Group is honored to be nominated in the Hagerstown Magazine Hot List. We sincerely thank our clients and the community for their support. We look forward to a great 2026!

29 W. Franklin Street Hagerstown, MD 21740

301.790.3600 www.poolelg.com

To our incredible clients—thank you for your trust and continued support. We are honored to serve you and proud to be part of your success story. Here’s to a strong partnership ahead!

20 W. Washington Street Hagerstown, MD 21740

301.739.7400 www.mhlawmd.com

I am honored to once again be voted onto the Hagerstown Magazine Hot List. Thank you to all my wonderful clients, colleagues and friends who continue to support my business. I feel so blessed to do what I love.

222 E. Oak Ridge Dr. Ste 2000 Hagerstown, MD 21740

240.625.6561 youragentpatti@gmail.com http://pattiperez.samsonproperties.net

Seafood

Schula’s Grill & Crab House

Chic’s Seafood

Bistro 11 & Lounge

Special Occasion/ Romantic

Schula’s Grill & Crab House

Nick’s Airport Inn

The Grille at Runways

Steak

Bistro 11 & Lounge

Black Rock Bar & Grill

Veva’s on Potomac

Sub/Sandwich Shop

Hartles Subs

Little Alex’s Pizzeria

Turtle’s Subs, Etc.

Sushi

House of Kobe

Nikko Japanese Steak & Seafood  Sushi Bomb

Vegetarian Options

Free Range Cafe

Hummus Mediterranean Grill

Bistro 11 & Lounge

Winery/Distillery

Big Cork Vineyards

Red Heifer Winery

Stone House Urban Winery

Wings

Stadium Grill and Tavern

Fosters on the Point

The Broad Axe

List Highlight

Just Keep Mowing Hot

Chandra Metz says her husband, Martin, was “born and bred” to do landscaping work. His father had a hardscape construction business, and although Martin went to Shepherd University and then into the building automation industry, the call of the great green outdoors was always with him.

“He wanted to be back in the sunshine and on a mower,” Chandra says.

So, the couple started C&M Lawns, a service based in Williamsport but serving clients in West Virginia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania as well.

Chandra uses her diverse background to provide outstanding customer care, and together the couple’s goal is to alleviate stress for clients by showing up on time, taking care of clients’ lawns by keeping them green and neatly striped.

“Our fun slogan is ‘We make tall grass short.’ It always gets a chuckle when we introduce ourselves, but it’s really our promise to show up when we say we will, to call, text, or email if something prevents that,” Chandra says. “We bring professionalism to the table and services that bridge the gap between the ‘big guys’ and the local services. When someone recognizes or compliments that differentiator it is the warm fuzzy feeling we always need to just keep mowing.”

The Metz’s are newcomers to the lawn service industry, having started three years ago. But growth has been steady.

“When Martin said he wanted to start a landscaping business, I asked how to do that,” she says.

“Knock on a lot of doors,” came Martin’s response. So that’s what the couple did. They started showing up in places where there were a lot of doors—neighborhoods, apartment complexes, and industrial areas. Now, C&M handles a wide variety of clientele, including about 80 percent residential homes, 10 percent homes that are managed by property management companies, and 10 percent commercial properties ranging from a small office complex to a large campground facility.

“We owe a lot of our origin story to the Washington County Chamber of Commerce and all of the networking opportunities that were afforded to us from day one,” she says. “Now, we are members of the David W. Fletcher Incubator at (Hagerstown Community College) and are looking forward to our tenure there with the resources afforded to us through that program.”

We are truly grateful for the clients, friends, and community members who took the time to vote. Your confidence in our planning is the best possible reward.

223.386.6521 cortnie.beaver@prudential.com

Thank you for an amazing 2025! We’re grateful for customers like you and excited to celebrate our 25th Anniversary with you next year. So, from our family to yours, have a safe and blessed new year!

7437 Sharpsburg Pike Boonsboro, MD 21713 301.302.0740

Thank you, Washington County, for your continued support of our small business and our shared commitment to whole-person wellness. We’re honored to grow alongside this community—building health, connection, and inspiration together in the year ahead.

22 N. Mulberry Street, Suite 312 Hagerstown, MD 240.527.0471

www.fitmindedliving.com

Thank you to all of my clients, friends and family for your continuous support. I am sincerely grateful and look forward to helping you travel in 2026!

Hagerstown, MD 21742

240.850.8688

renee@tripsmadereal.com

Entertainment

2026 Winners

Family Entertainment

Warehouse Cinemas

Yingling’s Golf Center

Tilt Studio Festival/Special Event

Augustoberfest

Alsatia Mummers’ Parade  Hangarfest

Alsatia Mummers’ Parade  Krumpe’s Donut Drop  Augustoberfest   SKYE WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Black Rock Golf Course  Beaver Creek Country Club  Fountain Head Country Club

Washington County Museum of Fine Arts

Local author’s new book tells the story of a Washington County sheriff who was Allegany County’s first hanged murderer

It is a story as old as time itself—the spouse, the lover, a murder.

And it is one James Rada, Jr., an Amazon.com bestselling author, tells in his most recent book Blood on the Badge. The book explores the real-life story of George Swearingen, a Washington County sheriff who became Allegany County’s first hanged murderer.

“I call it historical true crime,” says Rada of the story, which takes place in the early 1800s. Blood on the Badge is just the latest book by Rada, an author of historical fiction and non-fiction stories. Other works include Strike the Fuse , the story of a violent coal strike and those impacted by it, Canawlers , a family saga about life on the C&O Canal, and Battlefield Angels: The Daughters of Charity Work as Civil War Nurses.

Swearingen was unhappy in his marriage, according to Rada.

“A big bone of contention was his wife Mary wanting to go back and spend time with her parents in Cumberland in Allegany County,” says Rada. But traveling by buggy was not an easy journey. “It could take a couple of days.” Rada says. “He was spending a lot of time taking her there and back.”

The frequent trips to visit her parents took a toll. “She wasn’t available for him in Washington County because she was always gone,” says Rada.

Swearingen found comfort elsewhere and began a romance with a prostitute named Rachel Cunningham. “A poorly kept

secret in Washington County,” says Rada.

His wife’s suspicion that he had a lover resulted in an argument which turned violent and then fatal. “He said it was an accident,” says Rada. Swearingen with his lover went on the run and made it as far as New Orleans. “Then his luck ran out,” says Rada, who lives in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

Swearingen was recognized there from his description in newspapers. “The fact that the sheriff from a rural county in Maryland gets recognized in the large metropolis of New Orleans just boggles the mind,” says Rada.

James Rada, Jr.

writes non-fiction history and historical fiction. His books cover topics of local history in the Western Maryland and Gettysburg areas. Many of his books have been bestsellers in their categories on Amazon.com. He also writes fantasy, horror, and young adult fiction under the pen name J. R. Rada. His website is www.JamesRada.com

Swearingen was taken back to Allegany County where the murder had taken place to face charges.

“The prosecution used the spaghetti effect,” says Rada. “They had three or four different possibilities for how he committed the murder

and threw them all at the jury to see which one would stick.”

At one point, his wife’s body was exhumed so that it could be autopsied again, according to Rada. Newspapers reports spared no details. “They talked about how bad it smelled and looked,” says Rada of her corpse. “This violation only made the public and jury turn against him more.”

Swearingen was found guilty and hanged. “The jury was primed because they were angry that it had happened,” says Rada. “So, in part, the jury was a bit biased.”

Does Rada think Swearingen intentionally murdered his wife? “He did not like his wife at that point,” he says, “but I don’t

think he set out to kill her.”

Rada conducted extensive research in writing Blood on the Badge, contacting historical societies and poring over countless newspapers articles from the time. Some of the sensational stories Rada came across said that Swearingen’s lover Rachel Cunningham was hanged alongside him.Not true. “She was never put on trial,” says Rada.

Swearingen’s story is evidence that whether it be 200 years ago or yesterday, people are intrigued by true crime. Especially if it has a solid ending.

“They like it if the killer is brought to justice,” says Rada of readers. “They appreciate that.”

A War Remembered

FORT RITCHIE MUSEUM HELPS WASHINGTON COUNTY

VETERANS KEEP KOREAN WAR MEMORIES ALIVE

By Erin Jones

From a rickety steam train, newly deployed Ron Twentey beheld the devastation of a war-ravaged Korea. Shellshocked survivors lived in shacks, shanties, and even cardboard boxes.

Later in his deployment, the toll of the conflict would become even more personalized—etched in the faces of the hungry orphan children in the villages. Twentey began saving bits of candy, fruit, or snacks from their mess kits that he could give them.

Nearly 70 years later, Twentey returned to Korea with his wife Trish under vastly different circumstances, thanks to the hospitality of Sae Eden Presbyterian Church. Instead of a C147 puddle jumper, they rode in business class, where private cubicles contained a bed and a TV for comfortable travel. Instead of the reeling country the young soldier had captured in black and white snapshots, Twentey was astonished by the flourishing and vibrant South Korea that he beheld.

“It made me cry, because I said, ‘how can this be?’ This is a miracle...” Twentey says. “It’s like a

Phoenix bird to me. They came out of nothing into a beautiful, beautiful, beautiful country.”

During the visit, Twentey found himself surrounded once again by Korean children, but this time they called him Grandfather, thanking him and the other veterans for their contribution to their lives of freedom.

The Korean schoolchildren also wrote 100 notes of thanks, 23 of which are now on display at the Korean War Exhibit in the Ritchie History Museum in Fort Ritchie.

Twentey is the commander of the Korean War Veterans Association (KWVA) Antietam Chapter 312. The Washington County chapter is the only active Korean War Veterans Association in the state. Established in 2007, the chapter’s goal is “to foster fellowship among KWVA members and ensure the Korean War would not continue

to be the ‘forgotten war.’”

As the years pass, the chapter that once had more than 120 veterans, now has 24. They, along with approximately 25 associate members, continue to meet the first Wednesday of each month at the Funkstown Legion.

Their monthly newsletter brings news of the community and chronicles the chapter’s events. June’s events alone included an appreciation luncheon with former Maryland First Lady Yumi Hogan in Wheaton, Sae Eden Church of Seoul Korea’s appreciation banquet, the Korean Embassy’s appreciation luncheon at Nick’s Airport Inn, and a 75th anniversary commemorative ceremony at the Hagerstown Korean War Memorial on Potomac Avenue.

The newsletter also contains a Sick Call and Wellness Update, listing members with health needs and encouraging members to send prayers, cards, or phone calls.

“We’ve got a lot of camaraderie,” Twentey says.

“I’ve got a lot of them in either nursing homes or assisted living, and I try to call or have our guys call. We put the phone numbers in every newsletter to make sure that they’re taken care of. And, unfortunately, I’ve done a lot of funerals in the last six months.”

Twentey became the chapter’s Commander in 2021, after the sudden death of his predecessor Don Funk.

At that time, there was talk of the chapter closing, as was the case with many aging Korean War chapters. However, Twentey held fast to the chapter’s mission that the Korean War would no longer be forgotten. He knew that basements and garages around Washington County contained priceless artifacts and memorabilia from veterans and their families.

Just two months into his tenure as commander, he created a Korean War exhibit. The chapter had no budget for such an undertaking, nor space for the plan.

A Zoom with Washington County Veterans Advisory Committee brought to his attention that historic Fort Ritchie was being renovated and that Landon Grove, a schoolteacher, was recently brought on to be the director of a museum on site. When the two met, Twentey learned that both of Grove’s grandfathers had served in Korea. Grove agreed to dedicate space in the museum to the Korean War exhibit.

Initially the space that would become the Ritchie History museum, had broken windows and rampant graffiti. Undaunted by the challenge, Twentey brought with him the skills and experience of his architectural career, working closely with Grove to transform the space.

“He became my surrogate grandson,” Twentey says of the collaboration.

With the space secured, funding was the next hurdle. He began reaching out to delegates and senators

to let them know about the project, and word began to spread about the project.

The Baltimore Ravens donated memorabilia which was then raffled off for $1,000, providing seed money for the exhibit. The town of Sharpsburg gave another $1,000, and additional private donors followed suit.

A Korean company that hosted a honorary luncheon for veterans gave him $5,000 in cash on the spot after hearing about the project.

With the funds raised, he and wife, Trish, worked to assemble the museum’s components. His son, who is in the exhibit business in Frederick, also assisted.

The timing of the exhibit’s opening came at a significant moment for the chapter.

Of the 38 Washington County soldiers who gave their lives in the Korean War, seven are classified as Missing in Action. Until recently, only three of those had been recovered. In 2022, Roy C. DeLauter, who was killed in 1950, was positively identified and returned to his family from Hawaii. His family met the flight from Dulles airport and then brought him home to Hagerstown.

“When they brought the remains to Hagerstown,

there were fire trucks and flags and people on almost every overpass on the way to Hagerstown.” Twentey says. “There was a big to do then, and then they asked me to help with the funeral, which I did.”

Today, photos from that emotional day hang in the museum, along with other notable moments for the chapter’s past and present. The museum has published a collection of Military Service Biographies, written by Charles (Jim) Mobley with the help of Trish Twentey, called: Where They Were: 32 Washington County Maryland Fallen Heroes of the Korean War. An addendum of six additional biographies were added later. They are available with a donation to the museum.

The writings, and the exhibit itself, both further the chapter’s stated goal that the Korean War be remembered and passed down to future generations.

“My wish is that the young people understand through the Korean War, or any war, for that matter, that freedom is not free. You have to pay a price. It’s not something that you like to do, but you have to do it,” Twentey says. “The forgotten war is not forgotten anymore. It’s a remembered victory.”

Quirky and Eccentric

In Boonsboro, the My Mini-Mart & Dream Diner is a hidden gem of made-to-order food, excellent service, and a few other surprises

Boonsboro locals know where to go when they want food that’s stacked high, scratchmade, and served with genuine care: My Mini-Mart & Dream Diner. Set inside the town’s former American Legion Hall (c.1921), the diner has become a community hub powered by scratch recipes and the kind of personal attention that makes regulars feel like family.

Owner Michelle Raichel-Vining is no stranger to reinvention. Over the years she has gone from auctioneer to dojang master and now “chef.” Always entrepreneurial, she opened Warriors Karate here in 1997, teaching tae kwon do, kickboxing, and self-defense. Later, she introduced Flying High Bungee Fitness.

By April Bartel

“I’m a jack of all trades and a master of one,” she laughs, a nod to her background as a ninth-degree black belt, former No. 1 fighter in the nation, and world champion inducted

into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. “Those are the things I used to do for kicks.”

“I always dreamed about opening a restaurant so I could cook my granny’s recipes,” she says. “I cooked with her ever since I was a child.”

Those memories anchor her menu as much as they anchor her mission, to serve people and make a positive impact. It is a fact that is evidenced by her massive volunteer efforts, feeding dozens of families each year, along with a gift drive in partnership with Toys for Tots, the Salvation Army, and other social services.

That generous spirit dovetails with another inspiration. “When we were kids, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory was a big thing. I’d watch him giving kids candy and tell my brothers and sisters, ‘I’m going to own that soda shop someday.’”

In many ways, her dreams have come

true. The diner and mini-mart combo blends nostalgia, whimsy, and hearty homestyle cooking in equal measure. My Mini-Mart still carries essentials: drinks, candy, instant meals, over-the-counter medicines, lottery tickets, and even hand-dipped ice cream in season. In the diner, guests can choose from favorites like finger-licking ribs, thick burgers, chicken tenders, and meatloaf with sweet bourbon sauce, or one of the inventive monthly specials. That might mean hearty chicken pot pie stew ladled over a biscuit or a cheesy French toast bake.

Breakfast is a big deal. Raichel-Vining can knock out breakfast sandwiches, but she loves seeing folks enjoy her grandmother’s southern-style sausage gravy and biscuits. The enticing Cinnabon-style swirled pancakes come with bacon and a drink while her famous three-egg omelets, loaded any way you like, are always a top seller. In true diner fashion, breakfast never ends. You can dig into eggs and hashbrowns at dinnertime while the

table next to you enjoys made-to-order crab cakes or a tangy Reuben layered with housebrined, slow roasted brisket.

It’s all about personal preference here. “I’m going to make your food the way you want it,” she says. Raichel-Vining takes pride in scratch-made food. If you like your tuna salad with extra onion or a dash of pickle relish, just say the word.

“I don’t serve fast food,” she says, quoting her granny. “I serve good food.” The reward is hearing guests say a meal was worth the wait.

And don’t forget dessert. The diner’s menu tempts with handmade cakes, pies, and cookies, perfectly paired with caramel iced coffee, chai frappes, or winter-favorite hazelnut mochas. And the mini-mart side of the building always has plenty of candy, grab-and-go muffins, and slices of creamy cheesecake.

Some folks come to socialize over a leisurely meal or chat with their favorite servers. Others take advantage of the free WiFi and work while they grab a bite. There are

stacks of board games and vintage pinball machines, making it a place where families linger and groups gather. And with Boonsboro’s largest parking lot, there’s always room to stop in.

Ever evolving, Raichel-Vining has one more big project underway. Behind the diner’s bright dining room, in the former training studio, she and her husband are transforming the soaring space into a lounge and dance club. It will feature a horseshoe bar, an elevated stage, and plenty of seating. She laughs about tackling a good part of the construction herself.

“My main focus is getting it finished.” They hope to open later this year.

Through all the building’s incarnations, Raichel-Vining’s calling to serve the community keeps her pushing forward.

“People tell me this place is a ‘hidden gem.’” She shares with a final laugh, “Maybe I’ll make that the new name when the lounge opens.” That feels right.

From Injury 2 Empowerment: Building a Confident & Active Community

Rehab 2 Perform Brings Fresh Physical Therapy Model to Williamsport

Life in our community is built on movement- on fields, courts, trails, and in the everyday routines that keep us active. When injuries or setbacks get in the way, people here want more than recovery. They want confidence, strength, and the ability to keep doing what they love. That’s where Rehab 2 Perform (R2P) comes in.

With the opening of its newest location in Williamsport, R2P is proud to serve the greater community with a fresh approach to physical therapy. This isn’t rehab that sidelines you - it’s care that feels more like training than treatment - designed to help you recover stronger, prevent future injuries, and build resilience for life.

Leading the way is Dr. Matthew Mannick, a Williamsport native who knows firsthand the value of community. “I am excited to be back working in my hometown! It feels amazing to come full circle and be part of the community that’s always been home to me,” he shares. “There is a real sense of pride in contributing to a place that has impacted me greatly. I’m proud to bring our model of physical therapy

that focuses on movement, empowerment, and guiding people to perform for life, to Williamsport.”

What makes R2P different is the experience. The environment feels more like a performance gym than a clinic, and the expert team brings energy and education into every session. With a phase-based system (Restore, Refine, Prepare, Perform), your progress stays clear, intentional, and performance-driven, helping you come back stronger and Ready 2 Perform.

Founded in 2014 by Dr. Josh Funk just up the road in Frederick, Rehab 2 Perform has grown from a single clinic into a nationally recognized leader in modern, movement-based physical therapy. What began as a mission to raise the standard of care has become a regional network known for bridging the gap between rehab and performance. Today, R2P continues to expand while staying true to its roots: empowering communities to move better, recover stronger, and live without limits.

Whether you’re an active adult keeping up your fitness, a youth athlete striving to return to play, or someone looking to jumpstart a healthier lifestyle, Rehab 2 Perform is here to help you get back to what you love 2 Perform, not just now, but for life! All major insurances are accepted. Learn more and get started at rehab2perform.com

Touch ‘em All

From a small trailer west of Hagerstown, Home Run Donuts knocks it out of the park

By April Bartel

Some places are worth the wait in line, especially among hometown bakeries and family-owned food trucks, but few local legends rise quite as high as Home Run Donuts. Parked on National Pike just shy of its junction with Route 63, this compact food trailer covers all the bases. There’s a shelter overhead, a spacious gravel lot, a cozy fire pit for colder months and, often, a line of devotees. The reason is clear from the first bite. These show-stopping donuts are enormous, wildly creative, and made entirely by hand.

Co-owners Fawn and Matt Strite launched Home Run Donuts in April 2016 with a simple philosophy: to bring joy to their community through something sweet and crafted with care.

Home Run Donuts isn’t the typical donut shop. That’s intentional. “We love the fun, exciting, non-traditional versatility of a donut trailer,” Fawn says. The mobile setup allowed them to start small while building momentum. Now, with business booming year-round, the Strites hope to expand into a larger space in the coming year. For local fans, that future can’t come soon enough.

Home Run Donuts is famous for its extraordinary donut size (at least twice the heft of a common donut) and the hands-on craftsmanship that goes into each batch.

“Our donuts are big,” Fawn says with pride. “They are completely handcrafted, using some of the best, premium ingredients to keep our products top-tier.”

BIG DONUTS, BIGGER HEART

The dedication begins long before dawn. And ultimately, as Fawn says, “Thank God for our crew.” Staff members on the earliest shift arrive at 2 a.m. to start mixing dough. From rolling and cutting to frying, glazing, dipping, and decorating, everything is done the “good old-fashioned way.” This old-school approach, combined with small-batch quality, creates flavorful donuts with a texture and freshness regulars say they can’t find anywhere else.

“My beautiful Mama taught me the love of baking and cooking when I was a child,” Fawn says. “Our uncle and aunt make donuts, and we have a lot of bakers in our extended family.”

What began as a husband-and-wife team, with their oldest son, Dawson, helping in the early days, quickly grew into a local phenomenon. Wait times can stretch to an hour or more as the team hustles through each custom order. But with a sweet treat as the reward, even the line becomes part of the adventure.

But it’s the creative flavors that keep customers checking social media every week. The shop maintains four regular flavors plus five or six rotating specials. Each menu iteration gets posted to Facebook or Instagram a day or two in advance, prompting hundreds of comments and shares, while giving fans time to make some early-morning plans.

FLAVORS THAT SCORE

When asked about their all-stars, Fawn laughs. “We have so many favorites it’s hard to choose.”

Still, a few standouts consistently top the charts, like the Buckeyes. That’s their tasty homage to Ohio’s confectionary classic. These donuts get topped with fudgy peanut butter frosting and drizzled with rich chocolate. The Pineapple Upside Down Cake is another fan favorite, as is the Tiramisu. Jones-ing for that decadent combination known as Dubai Chocolate or lusciously creamy cheesecake? Just check the list. Fans call

THE DETAILS

Home Run Donuts is open Wednesdays and Fridays from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

16512 National Pike, Hagerstown, MD 21740

No

website but you can follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

the Monkey Bread Donut Holes utterly addictive. Their newest sensation incorporates a savory twist. “The Toasted Pizza Donut is our new favorite at the moment,” Fawn says, proving that their creativity knows no boundaries.

While the donuts alone could fuel the business, the Strites are equally known for their community connections and acts of kindness. At the end of each day, any leftover donuts are donated to their A Blessing to be a Blessing, a nonprofit run by “Mama Dee,” who serves the homeless, elderly, and those in need.

Home Run Donuts also collaborates with local businesses, including their beloved River Bottom Roasters. Thanks to the partnership, the shop carries its own custom coffee blend, Home Run Coffee, crafted just for them.

As for seasonal highlights, the shop’s winter lineup is legendary, with plenty more to get excited about.

Valentine’s donuts and our chocolate covered strawberries are always a huge hit,” Fawn says. Specials include playful takes on Little Debbie Valentine cakes and a Triple Chocolate Covered Strawberry donut crowned with brownie and chocolate mousse. After Valentine’s Day, they roll right into Girl Scout Cookie donuts. Think Tagalongs, Samoas, and Thin Mints.

As travelers detour off the interstate and families snap selfies with donuts the size of dinner plates,

the Strites find satisfaction and seeing so many smiles.

“It is an honor and great privilege to serve our beautiful community,” Fawn says. “To share joy, love, and our donuts with them. We are so very grateful.”

For anyone in-the-know, Home Run Donuts offers an experience that feels both homegrown and extraordinary. It’s a place where creativity goes to bat at 2 a.m., flavors change with the seasons, and every donut really is a home run.

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. $$

BAILE CASK AND KETTLE

53 W. Washington St., Hagerstown, 301.358.3800

Classic Irish-inspired pub fare, house-brewed craft beers and freshly baked New York-style bagels. $$

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. $$-$$$

BONNIE’S AT THE RED BYRD

19409 Shepherdstown Pike, Keedysville, 301.432.5822

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

20-22 Public Sq., 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 CASTILLO PIZZERIA & TEX MEX

15616 National Pike, Hagerstown, 301.582.4727

15731 Pennsylvania Ave., State Line, PA, 717.597.1819

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. $–$$

GIO’S PIZZERIA

18117 Maugan’s Ave., #200, Hagerstown, 240.698.0905

By combining our passion for pizza with our commitment to community service, we strive to be more than just a pizzeria. $$

GREENLEE’S

Traditional American dining with a quiet and relaxing view of the airstrip. $–$$

HAGERSTOWN

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

Veteran eatery serving familiar Chinese dishes in an informal setting. $$

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. $$

JUNIPER CAFÉ

41 N. Potomac St., Hagerstown, 240.267.2897

Get a taste of Philly with one of the best genuine cheesesteaks you’ll find in Washington County. Plenty of other great selections too! $$

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. $$

MISSION BBQ

Italian fare; Maryland soul. $$-$$$ To

17301 Valley Mall Road, Hagerstown, 443.491.8777

Authentic, mouth-watering all-American food that’s done right. $$

NICK’S AIRPORT INN

14548 Pennsylvania Ave., Hagerstown 301.733.8560

More than 50 years of serving quality cuisine from scrumptious seafood to delectable desserts. $$

NIKKO JAPANESE STEAK & SEAFOOD

1580 Wesel Blvd., Suite F, Hagerstown, 301.714.0005 Bento combo box lunches, tons of a la carte sushi options, and hibachi lunch and dinner options. $–$$

PHO VIET

1441 Wesel Blvd, Hagerstown, MD 21740, 301.745.5030

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. $$.

PRIMANTI BROS.

17301 Valley Mall, Hagerstown, 301.228.0933

High-piled sandwiches equipped to quell the heartiest of hungers. $

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. $–$$

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

ON THE ROAD

Soup’s On

For more than a century, a Pennsylvania town has celebrated the lowly Navy Bean Soup

Maine has its lobster fests. In Wisconsin, the town of Ellsworth hosts the Cheese Curd Festival, and every September New Orleans celebrates Beignet Fest as visitors brush powdered sugar from their clothes and enjoy the pastries with chicory root coffee. A no-brainer theme for a fair in Buffalo, New York, is the National Buffalo Wing Festival held each Labor Day weekend.

By Nancy Luse

McClure, a Central Pennsylvania borough north of Harrisburg and a little over two hours from Frederick, is not to be outdone. With a population of fewer than 1,000 residents, McClure hosts the state’s oldest festival with a stirring (sorry) tribute to bean soup, making and serving countless bowls of it every September since 1891. This year’s celebration is Sept. 7-13, marking the fair’s 134th anniversary.

“It’s a fun and unique experience and the organizers do a great job with it,” says Erin Ohlfs of the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau.

The first bean soup celebrations were held by a group of Civil War veterans who included soup making as part of their regular get togethers. They even served hardtack—a simple, durable cracker—secured from the War Department to round out the meal. In 1891 the general public was invited, and the crowds continue to this day, partaking of traditional fair activities but with the added bonus of seeing soup being made as a salute to McClure’s history.

Sixteen 20-gallon kettles warmed by a wood-fueled battery of furnaces contain the soup, which is stirred using long wooden paddles during shifts lasting two hours and 20 minutes, the time required to soften the dried navy beans that are cooked in a simple recipe along with beef, salt, and spring water.

But the fair is about more than soup.

For the competitive folks, the fair offers a number of contests aside from bingo and spinning a wheel to try and score a cake, including recognition for being the best maker of ice cream. Contestants bring all the ingredients and while the ice cream is judged by quality and taste, a separate contest for speed is held for the hand-cranked entrants.

Other culinary contests include finding the best chili, pumpkin pie, apple pie, and chocolate cake among the entries. There’s also a milk chugging competition and the “Baby Bean Photo Contest” to determine the cutest youngster under the age of 2. A similar contest is held for pets. Also contributing to the small-town feel of the festival is a sack race, water balloon toss, corn-shelling contest, and cornhole tournament.

Every county fair needs its royalty and in McClure a queen, princesses, and tiny tots are crowned to rule over the festivities and ride in the parade along with marching units, bands, and floats.

As long as you’re in the area, take time to enjoy this neck of the woods, which is full of opportunities for fishing, hiking, boating, and kayaking, either in a lake or the Susquehanna River. Another attraction is T&D’s Cats of the World, a wildlife rescue organization where you

can view the animals.

The visitor bureau’s Ohlfs also recommends staying the night in Selinsgrove, home to Susquehanna University. “It’s a college town

with good restaurants, shops, and boutiques,” she says. Wineries are also nearby. But before taking off for other activities, fortify yourself with a bowl of soup. www.visitcentralpa.org

SENIOR LIVING CALENDAR

OF EVENTS

Every Wednesday CONTEMPORARY RETIREMENT

9:06 a.m. to 10 a.m., WJEJ Radio

Tune in for topical discussions on issues affecting retirees.

Wednesdays, January 7 and February 4

NEW TO MEDICARE WORKSHOP

1 p.m.to 3 p.m., 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. 535 E. Franklin St., Hagerstown

Hosted by the Washington County Commission on Aging. To register call 301.790.0275.

Tuesdays, January 6 and February 3

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP

4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Somerford Place

Hosted by Somerford Assisted Living and Alzheimer’s Care. For more information, call 301.791.9221.

Tuesdays, January 6, 13, 20 & 27 and February 3, 10, 17 & 24

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, January 8 and February 5

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 visit www.hagerstownparkinsonsupport.org.

Mondays, January 5 and February 2

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. Call 717.709.2342.

Mondays, January 5 and February 2

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

7 p.m., Breast Cancer Awareness Cumberland Valley, 12916 Conamar Dr., Suite 201, Hagerstown Call 301.791.5843 or visit www.bcacv.org.

Mondays, January 12 and February 9

SPINAL CORD INJURY SUPPORT

3 p.m. to 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, January 13 and February 10

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. For reservations, call 240.420.4119.

Tuesdays, January 13 and February 10

LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA

6 p.m., Robinwood Medical Center, Suite 129

Open to those affected by leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, MDS or myeloma. Call 301.665.4650.

Thursdays, January 15 and February 12

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP

6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Brookdale Senior Living, 20009 Rosebank Way, Hagerstown

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. Call 301.733.3353.

Tuesdays, January 27 and February 24

55 UP

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Cortland Mansion 19411 Cortland Drive, Hagerstown

Lunch and educational seminar for people ages 55 and UP. $13. Call 301.790.8907.

GROW IT ALL

A NEW GARDENING YEAR

It’s a new gardening year! New opportunities to try new plants, to re-landscape, to dream big. Maybe add a new perennial bed? Pollinator garden? Deer fence? Irrigation system? If you’re like me, I’m more and more focused on productivity and low maintenance.

Start with taking a practical look at those remaining Christmas plants. Should you keep poinsettias and paperwhites? Honestly, these finicky plants are forced to flower and require real commitment to flower again. Amaryllis, on the other hand, usually bloom again after summering outside followed by ignoring them (a dormant dry period) for two or three months. Likewise, orchids usually rebloom after a resting phase of six months or more and a temperature drop at night ( below 65 degrees for a few weeks).

While you’re focused, consider your houseplants. Yes, Virginia, there really are some houseplants that even self-proclaimed “black thumbers” can’t kill. My top 5 low-maintenance houseplants—aloe, cast iron plant, pothos, snake plant, ZZ Plant—thrive on neglect and require minimal commitment (seriously, I only fertilize once or twice a year). Try ZZ plant ‘Raven’ for an eye-catching black/purple foliage vibe.

Since the No. 1 cause of houseplant death is overwatering, change your watering technique. Simply water only if the soil is dry. Test by sticking your finger (or chopstick/toothpick) one inch to two inches into the soil. If it feels dry, water. Water until it drains out of the bottom (pouring away any standing water). This time of year, I typically water only every two weeks (less for Cacti/succulents) unless plants are near a heat vent.

Order flower and vegetable seeds now for the best selection. Growing from seeds opens the door to hundreds of exceptional varieties unavailable at stores. Besides being incredibly satisfying, it costs less, too.

By Deborah Smith Fiola

I got hooked by growing gourmet lettuces ($3 to $4 seed pack) vs. paying $6 for a four-pack transplant—or $4 per bag at the grocery.

Begin indoor seeding under lights in February (eight to 10 weeks before the last frost date) for cool-season crops like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, eggplant, leeks, and shallots. Wait until March (six to eight weeks ahead) to seed warm season transplants indoors (tomatoes, peppers, etc.). Set timers for 14 to 18 hours of light per day, raising lights as plants grow. Take care to keep seedlings moist without overwatering. Remember to move plants into larger pots as they grow.

Winter is the perfect time to clean your gardening tools so they’re ready to go come spring. Metal shovels, rakes, hoes, and trowels caked with soil, debris, and rust can degrade over time. Scrape off soil with a brush and wash with soapy water then dry thoroughly to prevent rust. Clean and sharpen pruners too, using rubbing alcohol to dissolve sap buildup.

Clean old flowerpots you plan to reuse. Scrub off any soil, debris, algae, or mineral buildup with soapy water and a stiff brush. It’s very important to disinfect them to prevent any overwintering diseases or insect eggs from infecting your future crops. Submerge pots in a weak mix of either bleach and water (one-to-nine solution) or vinegar and water (one-to-three) for 10 to 15 minutes. Otherwise, use a sponge to apply the solution to all surfaces of the pot.

Spring will be here before you know it.

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.

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MY WACO LIFE

THE THING ABOUT HOMETOWNS

I’ve been a lot of places. Thirty countries. Forty-nine states. Cities from Paris to Havana to Miami to Rome. The thing about all of those places is that they have something that nowhere else does. They haven’t been filtered so they’ve become blurry. They haven’t been tamed so that their unique nature no longer exists. They haven’t been forgotten, yet they’ve kept up with the times. In the midst of a constantly changing world, they’ve held onto their identity while progressing forward.

In contrast, I can think of dozens of places that were unidentifiably bland. A town in Texas with none of that Texas flair, just box stores and developments eclipsing ranches and mountains and lakes. Cities in California within an hour of the mighty Pacific that could have been placed directly into Chicago’s sprawling suburbs without anyone batting an eye. Towns along the Mississippi that looked lost to both the past and the future, a bunch of same chain restaurants with sticky floors and bleary-eyed staff.

It’s no small feat to keep an identity intact. Not for cities. Not for their people. Not for a culture. Not in a world that seems like it’s trying to strip us of our uniqueness for an easy buck or a little more convenience.

In my own life I can think of times when I was trying to evolve or was forced forward into the future, and I wasn’t sure who I was anymore in the process: when my father died in my early 20s and I lost my earliest protector and fiercest friend; when I blew out my knee playing soccer and had to reconcile with who I was without a game I never imagined not playing; when I first became a mom and the world tilted on its axis pushing me out of the comfortable space I had inhabited when I was only in charge of me; when I decided to be a writer and struggled for years to find anyone to publish my work.

Life is constantly asking us who we are? And even if we know, staying strong enough to stay true to ourselves is a constant tightrope between holding on and letting go enough so we can continue to grow.

By Laura Forrest Hopfauf

Right now, in Washington County, I think we are moving forward and developing and changing more rapidly than I have seen in my lifetime. There have been more warehouses built, more developments set, more shopping plazas added in the past few years than perhaps the decade before. I’m not saying that’s all bad. But I am saying we need to have boundaries as we grow. We can’t develop everywhere, endlessly, with no clear direction of what we want to be known for in years without losing who we are. Just because we sit at the interchange of interstates 70 and 81 doesn’t mean that every exit in our county needs to have a gas station, a chain restaurant, a warehouse, or a shopping strip. We need to carefully choose our placements and quantity so that we don’t choke out the places that are only ours—Krumpe’s Do-Nuts and Nutter’s Ice Cream, Rocky’s Pizza and Schula’s Crab House, Broad Axe and River City Farm and Pet Supply—and all the others that make our county our home.

We have to keep enough open spaces to remain wild enough so that when we walk through Antietam Battlefield or Blair’s Valley or canoe down Antietam Creek or the Conococheague we can still hear the quiet.

I’m not saying this to sound disgruntled. I’m not even saying the ways we’ve grown so far are wrong. I understand that to live in the world as it is we have to move forward with it. But I do know we need to pay attention to who we are becoming, how we are growing, and make conscious decisions about where we want to live 20 years from now and who we want to be because if we give away our identity, if we give away our hometown, there will be no way to get it back.