Hagerstown Magazine - January/February 2024

HAGERSTOWN :: January/February 2024

Hagerstown’s Iconic Rock Band KIX Calls it Quits :: Zips: Smithsburg and 21783 :: Sweetness from the Old World

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VOLUME XX, ISSUE 3

MANAGING EDITOR

Jeff Thoreson ART DIRECTOR

Alexandra Werder GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Ian Sager

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Chuck Boteler | Ext. 115 • cboteler@hagerstownmag.com Stephanie Dewees | Ext. 120 • stephdewees@fredmag.com Terri Davis | Ext. 113 • tdavis@fredmag.com Debra Tyson | Ext. 111 • dtyson@fredmag.com BUSINESS & CIRCULATION

Stephanie Dewees | Ext. 120 subscriptions@hagerstownmag.com WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT

HighRock Studios

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

April Bartel Ken Buckler Deborah Smith Fiola Allison Hurwitz

Charles Jeffries Mike Marotte III Jennifer Mellace Crystal Schelle

PHOTOGRAPHY

Turner Photography Studio

Take your higher education journey to new heights at University System of Maryland at Hagerstown.

The University System of Maryland at Hagerstown (USMH) offers upper-division-undergraduate and graduate academic programs from universities within the University System of Maryland.

BUSINESS OFFICE

Hagerstown Publishing 6 N. East St., Suite 301 Frederick, MD 21701 SEND MAIL TO:

P.O. Box 2415 Hagerstown, MD 21741

To learn more about programs offer at USMH, visit Hagerstown.usmd.edu 32 W. Washington Street, Hagerstown, MD 21740

HAGERSTOWN PUBLISHING

hagerstown.usmd.edu | 240.527.2060

Telephone: 301.662.8171

www.hagerstownmagazine.com

FIVE UNIVERSITIES. ONE LOCAL CAMPUS. Hagerstown magazine is published bimonthly by Hagerstown Publishing, LLC, 6 N. East St., Suite 301, Frederick, MD 21701. The publisher is Shawn Dewees. Editor is Jeff Thoreson. The magazine is owned by Hagerstown Publishing, LLC, whose sole stockholder is Shawn Dewees. For the Sept./Oct. 2023 issue, the number of copies printed was 6500: paid circulation was 3918, which includes 3385 mail subscriptions, 500 single copy sales and 33 others sold. There were 2205 complimentary copies. The number of copies not distributed was 377. From Nov. 2022 to Sept. 2023, the averages for distribution were as follows: copies printed were 6500, paid circulation was 3910 which included 3400 mail subscriptions, 480 single copy sales and 30 other sales. There were 2190 complimentary copies. The number of copies not distributed was 400. Hagerstown Publishing, LLC, 6 N. East St., Printed on Recycled Suite 301, Frederick, MD 21701.

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contents

VOLUME XX, ISSUE 3

THE BEST OF LIFE IN WASHINGTON COUNTY

FEATURES 24 The Hot List

Your ballots have all been counted and the winners of our annual Hagerstown Magazine reader’s poll are in. The top three in categories from antiques to veterinarians are listed in this issue. See if your favorites made the cut. If not, make sure to vote next year.

36 They Got Their KIX

Founded in Hagerstown in the 1970s, the hair-metal, glam-rock band KIX recorded seven studio albums, including 1988’s platinum-selling Blow My Fuse, but the guys have now called it quits.

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DEPARTMENTS ON THE COVER Our annual reader’s poll of the best restaurants, shops, inns, businesses, and professionals in Washington County.

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FROM THE EDITOR AND CONTRIBUTORS

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COUNTY LINES Short stories about what’s happening in WaCo.

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CALENDAR

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ZIPS Smithsburg is Washington County’s third-biggest municipality. It hasn’t changed much in 100 years.

Take a look at what’s there.

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AROUND WACO You can find some good deals at the numerous thrift stores around Washington County.

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DINING Good food, great hospitality, and fine antiques at the unusual BuddyLou’s in Hancock.

LAST COURSE For more than a century Olympia Candy Kitchen has been supplying the sweet teeth of the tri-state area.

DINING GUIDE

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SENIOR LIVING EVENTS

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GROW-IT-ALL Author Deborah Smith Fiola discusses the Spotted Lanternfly in Washington County.

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A DOSE OF SATIRE Ken Buckler takes a satirical look at the “not-so-hot” list of businesses in the Hagerstown area.

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FROM THE EDITOR

KIX began in Hagerstown in the 1970s and played their final show last September. This is KIX performing in 2010.

THE BEST OF THE BEST FOR 2024

WHO WE ARE

I’M NOT SURE IT RANKS UP THERE WITH THE SMORGASBORD OF HOLIDAYS WE CELEBRATE IN DECEMBER, BUT HAGERSTOWN MAGAZINE’S ANNUAL READERS’ POLL HAS BECOME MAYBE NOT AN ANTICIPATED TIME OF YEAR BUT CERTAINLY AN ANTICIPATED ISSUE. Every January for the past decade or so we publish the best of the best in Washington County. Thankfully, it’s not up to the magazine staff to make these decisions.

LISA GREGORY Lisa Gregory is an experienced journalist whose articles have appeared in publications nationally and internationally, including the Washington Post, U.S. News, and World Report. She is also a published author of fiction with short stories in the books, For the Love of Gettysburg and On Hallowed Ground.

This is our readers’ chance to contribute to the content of the magazine by voting for their favorite businesses in Washington County. Once again, we received thousands of votes for hundreds of businesses and tabulated them into the top three top vote-getters in dozens of categories. From antiques to wings, 88 winners as well as second- and third-place vote-getters are listed starting on page 24.

Washington County is full of great restaurants, shops, professionals and businesses worthy of recognition, so every year we highlight the people and places you, our readers, like best. See if your favorite’s made the list.

On a sadder note, in this issue we feature the local glam-rock band KIX as it made its exit from the musical stage last fall. That band that started in Hagerstown in the 1970s rocked on for 40 years, giving us classic hair-band albums like Midnite Dynamite and 1988’s Blow My Fuse, which Rolling Stone ranked No. 8 on its list of the 50 Greatest Hair Metal Albums of All Time. The boys did Hagerstown proud, and it’s sad to see them retire after more than 40 years of making music.

– Jeff Thoreson

CRYSTAL SCHELLE Crystal has spent more than 30 years as an award-winning journalist and has been published locally, regionally, and nationally.

Today, she works in the nonprofit arts world.

She also continues to freelance and teach journalism at Frederick Community College.

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This is Washington County Surveyors Eric Gladhill and Tim Burch at a crown stone along the Mason-Dixon line.

Another crown stone sits alongside Marsh Road.

Something You Don’t Know About WaCo THE FAMOUS MASON DIXON LINE, THE demarcation point defining the border between Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, was painstaking and physically taxing four-year survey

by English astronomer Charles Mason and surveyor Jeremiah Dixon. Washington County owns 46.5 miles of the line, more than any county.

The two famous surveyors set stone markers every mile along the line (imagine that difficulty in the 18th century along the rugged and thickly forested terrain of WaCo), which would officially resolve a century-long border dispute stemming from the somewhat ambiguous proprietary grants from the English crown to Lord Baltimore (Maryland) and

William Penn (Pennsylvania and Delaware). Every five miles they placed “crown stones” with an “M” on the Maryland side and a “P” on the Pennsylvania or Delaware side and the coat of arms of each state.

Last summer, a group of surveyors led by the Maryland Geodetic Survey and organized through the Maryland Society of Surveyors and the Pennsylvania Society of Land Surveyors searched for all the stones along the 233-mile line. Many have been lost to time, but all 44 in Washington County were found.

There are nine crown stones in WaCo. Mason and Dixon had rudimentary tools, and though the survey has been redone with modern tools, few adjustments have needed to be made.

INTERSTATE TRAVELERS SIX MILES WEST OF HANCOCK ARE TREATED TO A VIEW OF ONE OF THE BEST ROCK EXPOSURES in the Northeastern United States where Interstate 68 cuts through Sideling Hill. Almost 810 feet of strata in a tightly folded syncline is exposed on either side of the highway, creating a geographic feature so large it is visible from more than 10 miles away when approaching from the east. Although other exposures may surpass Sideling Hill in either thickness of exposed strata or in quality of geologic structure, few can equal Sideling Hill’s combination of both. This exposure is an outdoor classroom where students of geology can observe and examine various sedimentary rock types, structural features, and geomorphic relationships.

Photo by Mariano Mantel

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| A CLOSER LOOK

The House on Jonathan Street Can you talk a little about how you used Jonathan Street as a vehicle to talk about the societal issue of the racial economic divide across the country?

One of our goals with the documentary was to show how national policies affected local communities such as Jonathan Street. So, we talk about issues like redlining not only from the national perspective, but from the perspective of how it affected housing values on Jonathan Street.

We show how VA mortgages were not available to black veterans after World War II and how that affected property values in Hagerstown and on Jonathan Street. We talk about Brown vs. the Board of Education and show how integration was handled in Hagerstown. The Jonathan Street community allows us to personalize these large national policies and show their impact on local communities across America.

We also were able to talk about the prosperity of Jonathan Street and use it as an example of African American commerce and prosperity throughout America, since many of the same rules applied both on Jonathan Street and across America.

WHEN A HAGERSTOWN POLICE CRUISER CRASHED INTO a two-century-old 600-square-foot house on Jonathan Street in 2018, the incident set in motion a series of events that led not only to the renovation of the log cabin but to an in-depth look at how Jonathan Street reflects unequal economic hardships faced by the black community nationwide.

The renovation was historic preservation at its best. But Russ Hodge, founder and executive producer of Emmy-award winning 3 Roads Communications in Frederick, saw a greater story. He turned the incident into an hour-long documentary, which will air on public broadcasting stations across the country during Black History Month in February.

Hodge talked with Hagerstown Magazine recently about the documentary.

Following the 2018 crash, what made you think the incident on Jonathan Street would make a good documentary?

We look for engaging stories that have not received a lot of attention. At the time of the cabin restoration, we were locked down with Covid and America itself was coming to grips with issues of race and economic imbalance. The story of the log cabin seemed to be an excellent way to examine both. America loves an underdog, and there was no bigger underdog than 417 Jonathan Street.

The discovery, renovation, and renewal of the cabin may portend a change in the fortunes of the street and the larger community. Could you talk a little about how that might or is already playing out?

On Jonathan Street and the surrounding area, housing prices are climbing, with asking prices above $200,000 in some cases, especially for renovated homes. The Robert W. Johnson Community Center has received millions of dollars in grants from the state for renovation and repair, and we recorded our interview with Gov. Wes Moore there in May of 2023. Private investment is coming in with the opening of the new brewery in the old farmers market space, and a new grocery is going into the community, which had been labeled a “food desert.”

In the greater Hagerstown community, there has been the Hitachi factory and the new announcement about Conair, as well as the construction of the baseball stadium and some new renovation projects downtown. Collectively, these may portend a change in Hagerstown’s fortunes.

In producing our new documentary about Frederick’s revitalization after suburban flight and flooding decimated the downtown, it’s apparent that a community banding together and persistently fighting for positive change can transform an awful situation (like a cop car crashing into the log cabin) into a catalyst for growth and improvement.

The House on Jonathan Street ends on a hopeful note, with the narrator asking rhetorically whether “when the history of Hagerstown is reviewed yet again, will the town be able to trace its transformation to the house on Jonathan Street?”

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To my knowledge, this is the first time that the community has been able to “fight city hall” and prevent the demolition of a historic property.

Did you initially intend just to look at Jonathan Street but then found it to be an example of a nationwide problem and adjusted the narrative of the documentary?

We always wanted to place Jonathan Street and Hagerstown into the larger national context. We felt that its history and geography lent itself to being a symbol of many small towns and cities in America post-World War II. And we don’t just concentrate on the problems. We spend a lot of time on the sense of community and shared sacrifice that took place both on Jonathan Street and the larger Hagerstown community.

In talking to many of the older residents, in particular, it seemed like an idyllic place to live, with neighbor helping neighbor and everyone sacrificing for the collective advancement of the community.

How long did it take to make the documentary?

We began the documentary immediately after reading a story in the Baltimore Sun about the cabin in the summer of 2020. We began the production in earnest in 2021, when Covid had lessened, and have continued to devote a lot of time and resources to it through 2023.

Our original cut of the documentary came in at about one hour and 20 minutes, so we needed to go back and trim a lot. We have conducted 43 interviews for the documentary.

A screening of the documentary “The House on Jonathan Street” is scheduled for February 8 in Washington, D.C. A local screening in February is being scheduled for the Maryland Theater so that the community can see the film on a big screen. Visit www.thehouseonjonathanstreet. com for details.

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| BIZ BUZZ

Todd Anderson Acquires O’Neill Physical Therapy Services LOCAL PHYSICAL THERPT, lymphedema, hand, and APIST TODD ANDERSON upper extremity therapy.

HAS purchased O’Neill Blue Ridge has one of Physical Therapy and is only two certified hand re-introducing the business therapists in Washington as Blue Ridge Physical and County and two licensed Hand Therapy. O’Neill has therapists who also offer served the Hagerstown massage therapy. area for 41 years.

Anderson brings 33 “We promise to continyears of experience in ue to serve the community occupational therapy to and provide our patients Blue Ridge. Along with with the best possible his experience he brings a care,” Anderson says. passion for making a posBlue Ridge provides itive impact on the lives Blue Ridge Physical Therapy staff (clockwise from upper unique one-on-one physiof patients. He expects to left): Todd Anderson, OT; Brenda DeSutter Gue, PT; Kayla cal and occupational therexpand to offer personal Barnes, CPT; Lynn Brewer, PG apy care for a variety of training in the near future. orthopedic conditions, including back and neck pain, neuroThe practice remains on North Cleveland Street, just off the logic conditions, geriatric issues, deconditioning, pelvic floor Dual Highway.

Conair to Open Major Distribution Center in Hagerstown HAGERSTOWN’S NICKNAME THE HUB CITY WAS WELLdeserved in the 19th century when major railroads like the Western Maryland, Baltimore and Ohio and Chesapeake and Ohio all railed through town like spokes on a wagon wheel and drove the local economy.

As shipping via roads emerged throughout the 20th century, Interstate 70 running east-west and I-81 running north-south became important arteries. Now that readily available transportation and the addition of millions of square feet of warehouse space appears to be reviving Hagerstown as the Hub City.

International corporation Conair has agreed to lease 2.1 million square feet on Downsville Pike at what is believed to be the largest warehouse in Maryland for a distribution center. The good news that comes along with that is Conair will create approximately 700 jobs as the massive center ramps up over the next decade.

“We identified Mid-Atlantic Crossroads in Hagerstown for its logistically advantageous location at the intersection of I-81 and I-70, which allows it to efficiently service the Baltimore and Washington, D.C., markets, but also reach the entire eastern seaboard within a day’s drive,” says Chris Rodriguez, principal of warehouse owner Trammel Crow’s MidAtlantic Industrial platform.

Conair conducted a search of many states before settling on the Hub City. The warehouse will be the largest in Maryland and the largest in the nation for small appliances. Based in Stamford, Connecticut, Conair is a leading designer, manufacturer, and

marketer of branded personal care and small kitchen appliances, cookware, hairbrushes and accessories, cosmetic bags, and travel accessories. Conair sells its products, including iconic brands like Cuisinart, Conair, Babyliss, and Waring, in more than 120 countries across six continents.

“We are honored that industry leader Conair has selected Washington County as home for its newest distribution facility,” said John Barr, president of the Washington County Board of County Commissioners. “The investment of $75 million dollars into this property will significantly benefit our local economy and workforce. This announcement further verifies Washington County is a strategic hub for interstate commerce, and we are proud to add Conair to the list of internationally recognized companies who have put their roots down in our wonderful community.”

The Maryland Department of Commerce is assisting with project costs through loans from Advantage Maryland. Washington County is providing a $200,000 conditional loan to help Conair complete the project. The company is also eligible for various other incentives and tax credits from Maryland.

“We are looking forward to this partnership, which will allow us to be more responsive to our customers’ needs,” said Dan Kochenash, Conair senior vice president of distribution and logistics. “As we work together with the Maryland Department of Commerce, this operation provides us with a platform to improve service today and expand our business in the future.”

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| TIME TRAVELER

All Aboard! Looking Back at Pen Mar’s ‘Little Wabash’ IN THIS ISSUE TIME TRAVELER MIKE MAROTTE III TAKES US BACK to the miniature railway at Pen Mar Park in the early 1900s. The grand Pen Mar Park was a favorite for everyone with its amusement rides and arcades, as well as great food, dancing in a pavilion, and a dining room that could seat 450 people. Thousands of people came from near and far simply to have a wonderful time. Col. John Mifflin Hood, president of the Western Maryland Railway, created Pen-Mar Park in August 1877.

In the spring of 1904 Pen Mar Park added its first miniature railway for adults and children to ride. As many of 2,000 people a day rode the Little Wabash around the park.

The new attraction was managed by William N. Fleigh, an engineer for the Western Maryland Railroad who would take a three-month leave of absence during the summer to run the train for park guests.

The magnificent amusement ride was purchased by Fleigh at a small automotive factory in Niagara Falls, New York. The little engine came with a tender and three open passenger cars for the grand price of $1,500, a huge investment at the time but it definitely proved to be a crowd pleaser.

It is estimated that over the years this little workhorse transported more than 750,000 passengers on its track through the park.

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25 Years of Helping Kids AS 2024 DAWNS, CHILDREN IN NEED, INC., a nonprofit organization serving disadvantaged children residing in Washington County, begins its second quarter century. For 25 years, Children In Need has continuously worked to uplift the lives of thousands of county children who live at or below the poverty level.

“We are humbled by the support the Washington County community has shown Children In Need and the clients the organization has served since its inception in November 1998,” said Matt South, president of the board of directors. “Children In Need remains committed to transforming young lives by providing free clothing, school supplies, shoes, coats, hygiene products, and more to those in need in the Washington County community.”

Shhmackable: Something a Little Different HARLEY BROOKS AND JORDAN DOUGLAS decided they liked the location of Hagerstown, the growth of Washington County, and the people of the area. So, they opened a store called Shhmackable, a colorful, fun brand that offers designer jackets, T-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, polos, hats, athletic apparel sweat suits, and even Toboggan beanies along with small accessories. Shhmackable celebrated its grand opening in the Hagerstown Premium Outlets in December. The store is located halfway between Loft Outlet and Legacy Furniture.

New Multi-Sport Court Opens THE WASHINGTON COUNTY PARKS AND Recreation Department has opened a new multi-sport court at Regional Park on Mt. Aetna Road. The course is designed to accommodate various activities. It adds another dimension to the park that already has softball fields, a modular playground, tennis courts, basketball courts, pavilions, and a 36-hole disc golf course.

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| TRAVEL

HGR: Flying into the Future HAGERSTOWN REGIONAL AIRPORT’S NEW LOGO AND tagline “Travel Elevated” hints at more than just new signage and marketing material. Airport director Neil Doran says travelers can expect improvements and more conveniences to make HGR a more attractive alternative than driving to one of the region’s three major international airports.

The Board of County Commissioners authorized the airport to begin working with professional air service development firm Volaire Aviation Consulting.

“Volaire will assist us with identifying new opportunities for growth with our current airline partner, Allegiant, and to determine ways we may be able to

attract additional service by other air carriers,” Doran says.

One new service the airport is looking into is partnering with a company known as Landline, which could potentially offer luxury bus service from HGR to United Airline’s hub at Washington-Dulles or even American Airlines’ hub at Philadelphia. Travelers could park and check in at HGR and then travel aboard a luxurious, branded motorcoach bus to the hub where they can make onward connections to hundreds of domestic and international destinations. Landline has partnered with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to obtain permission to drop their passengers not at the terminal curbside, but at the

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JUSTINA | HAGERSTOWN

concourse level of major hub airports. From there, passengers can simply walk to the gate for their next connecting flight.

Bags are handled for them and there is no need for additional check-in, or security screening at the hub airport.

“This would truly elevate the travel experience by allowing folks to park their cars and clear security at HGR…while also receiving the benefits of more affordable parking and our super friendly, low stress airport environment,” Doran says. The partnership would allow travelers to book major airlines like American and United from HGR. That could further solidify HGR’s position as the fourth commercial airport in the Washington-Baltimore region.

Airport officials will also work to promote HGR as a travel option to the large and wealthy populations of Frederick and Montgomery counties in Maryland and portions of Loudon County in Virginia. “These would likely add new vacation travelers to those already aware of our flights and residing within our local Hagerstown passenger ‘catchment area,’” Doran says.

One additional change will be the implementation of a modest parking fee at HGR. The revenue will go to upgrades of lots and curbside areas.

“Our goal will always be to keep the costs of flying HGR as affordable as possible,” Doran says. “This is our strategic advantage. We want locals to see us as an unbeatable value, especially when compared with using larger, competing airports in this region.”

Other revenue like a one-time passenger facility charge on each enplanement will help improve terminal maintenance, security, ground handling services and other airport amenities to elevate the overall passenger experience.

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CALENDAR january to february MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

25th

JANUARY 13

GREENBRIER POLAR BEAR PLUNGE Greenbrier State Park, 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro

Become a member of this time-honored club by taking the plunge to save animals in need. All proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Washington County. You can register to plunge individually, start, or join a team, set a goal, and begin fundraising in support of the animals.

Day of check-in and registration will be open from 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Prizes will be awarded at 11:45 for best costume, most money raised (individual and team), and most team members. The plunge takes place at noon sharp. 10:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. 301-733-2060 or www.hswcmd.org.

JANUARY 25 TO 28

ICEFEST PA

Downtown Chambersburg, 100 Lincoln Way East, Chambersburg, Pa.

IceFest is the largest ice festival in Pennsylvania with the streets of downtown Chambersburg lined with sculptures. During the festival guests will have a chance to witness enormous sculptures being carved or ride a free ice slide. There will also be a chili cookoff and the icing on the cake decorating contest. Sporty visitors can join the Run Your Ice Off 5K. Laidback 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.

FEBRUARY 24

MOUNTAIN MOONSHINE & MUSIC Capitol Theatre, 159 S. Main Street, Chambersburg, Pa.

Bluegrass fans looking for their winter bluegrass fix will find it at the Capitol Theatre with this annual foot-stompin’ good time. Two popular regional bluegrass bands take the main stage, plus moonshine and more all night long. Remington Ryde returns to the Capitol and will headline the night. Moonshine, whiskey, bourbon, beer, and wine will be available for purchase when the doors open at 6 p.m. 717-263-0202 or www. thecapitoltheatre.org.

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GRAPES FOR GIRLS 2024

JANUARY 13

MARIE OSMOND WITH DAVID OSMOND

Cortland Mansion, 19411 Cortland Drive, Hagerstown

The Maryland Theatre, 21 South Potomac Street, Hagerstown

Join Marie Osmond in concert with special guest David Osmond. Marie Osmond has spent more than six decades in the entertainment business performing as a successful singer, television performer and talk show host, dancer, actor, author, entrepreneur, and public speaker. She has continued to maintain relevance, remaining an instantly recognizable figure across the globe. 7 p.m. 301-790-2000 or www. mdtheatre.org.

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JANUARY 18

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS

Luhrs Performing Arts Center, 473 Lancaster Drive, Shippensburg, Pa.

This event is the signature wine tasting fundraiser for the winter for Girls Inc. It is highly anticipated due to the magnificent wines paired with the delicious five-course dinner, along with silent, live, and special auctions. The events helps support the mission of helping every girl grow up strong, smart and bold. 5:30-10 p.m. 301-733-5430 or www.girlsinc-md.org.

JANUARY 25

HAIRSPRAY

Luhr Center, 475 Lancaster Drive, Shippensburg, Pa.

Broadway’s Tony Award-winning musical comedy phenomenon is back on tour. Join 16-year-old Tracy Turnblad in 1960s Baltimore as she sets out to dance her way onto TV’s most popular show. Can a girl with big dreams (and even bigger hair) change the world? Featuring the beloved score of hit songs including “Welcome to the ‘60s,” “Good Morning Baltimore”, and “You Can’t Stop the Beat,” Hairspray is “fresh, winning, and deliriously tuneful!” (The New York Times). This all-new touring production will reunite Broadway’s award-winning creative team led by director Jack O’Brien and choreographer Jerry Mitchell to bring Hairspray to a new generation of theater audiences. 7:30 p.m. 717-477-7469 or www.luhrscenter.com.

JANUARY 27

14TH ANNUAL THE ART OF COOKING

Fountain Head CC, 13316 Fountain Head Road, Hagerstown

Step into the enchanting world of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, a timeless tale that captivates audiences of all ages through the beauty and elegance of classical ballet.

The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine proudly presents its latest production performed live by a troupe of 50 ballet dancers. Experience the magic of this beloved fairy tale through stunning visual effects and more than 150 intricately crafted costumes. 7:30 p.m. 717477-7469 or www.luhrscenter.com.

Join guest celebrity chefs Bob and Jan Cirincione, Aaron and Jessica George, Matt and Bernadette Wagner, and Cody Hill and Jill Colbert for a one-of-a-kind experience in support of the Washington County Arts Council, Inc. and local artists. 6 p.m. Tickets required. 301-791-3132 or www.washingtoncountyarts.com.

JANUARY 19

2nd

THOMAS PANDOLFI

Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown

Pianist Thomas Pandolfi, recognized as one of the greatest interpreters of the Polish masters such as Chopin, Paderewski, and Godowsky, has received accolades for his work performing everything from Bach to Gershwin. 5-7 p.m. 301-739-5727 or www.wcmfa.org.

19th

FEBRUARY 2

THE NEW YORK BEE GEES

The Maryland Theatre, 21 South Potomac Street, Hagerstown

The band offers all of the classic 70s disco hits from “Stayin Alive” to “Night Fever” while embracing their early works such as “To Love Somebody,” “I’ve Got to Get a Message to You”, and “Massachusetts.” The New York Bee Gees delivers songs from every decade of the Bee Gees catalog with a stunning production, powerful vocals, and the professional stage presence. 7:30 p.m.

301-790-2000 or www.mdtheatre.org.

FEBRUARY 9

GROUNDHOG DAY EVENT

Washington County Agricultural Education Center, 7313 Sharpsburg Pike, Boonsboro

The Groundhog Day Celebration showcases local farms, producers, products, and value-added producers and products all in one great location. The Department of Business and Economic Development event is indoors at the multi-purpose building and features tasting samples from every vendor and the opportunity for ticket holders to further purchase products.

Washington County has a wealth of local producing farms that offer products yearround, just not in the summer months.

Approximately 400 tickets are sold to this event. (Snow date - Feb. 17; 21 or older only) 5-9 p.m. 240-313-2284 or www.washco-md.net.

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january to february FEBRUARY 10

ECLIPSE

Hub City Vinyl, 28 East Baltimore Street, Hagerstown

16th

Eclipse, a Journey tribute, plays selections from the the band’s classic Steve Perry era. Songs are performed with the same passion and energy as that of Journey’s live shows. Audiences will find themselves dancing and singing the power ballads and high-energy songs from Journey’s chart-topping hits. 8 p.m. 301-800-9390 or www.hubcityvinyl.com.

SHEPHERDSTOWN VALENTINE’S MARKET

War Memorial Building, 102 E German Street, Shepherdstown, W.V

Shop from a variety of locally made handmade gifts for your Valentine. Dozens of artisans will display unique products— everything from soap to nuts—that would make excellent gifts for your favorite someone. Door prizes of handmade and local items. 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. 304-876-3323 or shepherdstowncc.org.

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FEBRUARY 16

TUSK FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE BAND

The Maryland Theatre, 21 South Potomac Street, Hagerstown

Tusk, the number one tribute band to Fleetwood Mac, brings its note-for-note renditions of the great hits of Mick Fleetwood, Christine and John McVie, Lindsey Buckingham, and Stevie Nicks. The five seasoned musicians have been making music together for more than 25 years. 7:30 p.m.

301-790-2000 or www.mdtheatre.org.

FEBRUARY 23

JON RUDNITSKY

The Maryland Theatre, 21 South Potomac Street, Hagerstown

As a stand-up he’s performed on Conan, Comedy Central’s The Comedy Jam where he performed Footloose with Kenny Loggins and is a regular at the world-famous Comedy Cellar in New York. He was also selected as one of the New Faces at the prestigious Just for Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal. 7:30 p.m. 301-790-2000 or www.mdtheatre.org.

23rd

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ZIPS 21783

Historic Smithsburg

By Charles Jeffries / Photos by Turner Photography

B

y 1923 much of the town of Smithsburg had been built, and now, a century later, not much has changed. Pleasantly, Smithsburg retains its 19th-century charm and the town center is largely unencumbered by modern development. The town boundaries have pushed out to accommodate some housing development over the years and that has brought the population to about 3,000, making it the third largest municipality in Washington County.

HAVE A DRINK In any small-town bar you find characters, and Wolfe’s Den is no exception.

Belly up and enjoy a beer or a cocktail, but don’t miss out on the wings—bet-

ter than any chain restaurant version of the Buffalo delicacies. Outside of town, the Red Heifer Winery is one of Maryland’s up-and-comers for local wine. Among their dry reds is

a wine made with an obscure grape called Blaufrankisch, typically found in Eastern Europe. There are plenty of dry reds and whites and some sweet wines for dessert.

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GET OUTSIDE The Appalachian Trail zigs and zags to the east of Smithsburg in the 21783 zip code, following South Mountain and challenging hikers with rugged terrain.

The hey day of Pen Mar Park is long behind us with its amusement park, arcades, and dancing hall. But the view from High Rock in the park remain as

GRAB A BITE One thing Smithsburg will tell you is the small-town diner is alive and well. The Dixie Diner will fill you up with good food in portions too big to finish and smiling service all day long.

As you would expect from a Mayberry-like diner, Dixie offers an amazing breakfast. Vince’s Pizza is an interesting fusion of Italian and Mexican, with Vince’s specialty pizzas—try the Maryland crab pizza or the steak-andcheese pie—as the highlight. Vince

spectacular as ever and worth the hike or drive. If you’re looking for outdoor activities a little more tame, the Mountain Valley Orchard and Lewis Orchard are great places to explore local produce and the Washington County farm life. Veteran’s Park is about 30 acres of walking trails, playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas.

has been a Smithsburg fixture since 1989. Small-town Chinese food can be hit or miss, but China 88’s extensive menu is full of quality traditional dishes at more-than-reasonable prices.

Debbie’s Soft Serve is Smithsburg’s place for the sweet tooth, serving more than 30 flavors of soft serve, as well as snow cones, parfaits, sundaes, shakes, ice cream cakes, and novelties. You’ll also find hand-dipped ice cream from Windy Knoll Farm Market & Creamery in nearby Chambersburg.

SHOP LOCAL The Appalachian Trading Post is full of unique gifts, home decor, artisanal knives, and Native American-inspired wares. Wander through Salvage Through Time and stumble across relics from the past. Vintage items are salvaged from old barns and buildings to make an eclectic collection. Forget the big box DIY centers, Sunnycrest Farm & Home Center gives personal service for home and farm needs. The new ReFined by Goodwill is different from the traditional Goodwill thrift store. It features a weekly curated selection of antiques, home decor, designer shoes, accessories, and more. The homemade cakes and pies are worth the trip to the Trackside Kitchen, which is basically a permanent farmer’s market stand.

Prices are incredible. A dinner of pot roast and two sides for $8.19?

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HAGERSTOWN MAGAZINE’S

Whether you’re in the market for fine antiques, a cozy stay at a bed and breakfast, an accountant to do your taxes, or just a good beer, we’ve got it in our annual reader’s poll list of the best of Hagerstown and Washington County. Here are the restaurants, businesses, professionals, and entertainment venues that our readers picked as the best. There are 88 categories, 264 winners in first-, second- and thirdplace selections. We’ve got classy restaurants and dive bars, professionals who can pretty-up your fingernails or your bathroom, and places to get almost anything you need. If you don’t see your favorites, make sure to vote for them next year.

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Businesses 2024 WINNERS

Barbershop Slow Down

Hagerstown (240) 625-6202

Razor’s Edge Hagerstown (301) 733-4247

Tailor Made Cuts Hagerstown (240) 382-7602

Bed & Breakfast Elmwood Farm

Williamsport (240) 679-5235

Beaver Creek Inn Hagerstown (301) 302-7777

Inn Boonsboro Alternative Health – Structural Elements

Boonsboro (301) 432-1188

Book Store Accounting Services

Appliances

Hagerstown (301) 714-2071

Hagerstown (301) 739-2794

SEK

Lowes

Hagerstown (301) 733-5020

Hagerstown (301) 766-7200

Sum of the Digits

Best Buy

Williamsport (240) 500-3141

Hagerstown (240) 420-8523

Alternative Health

Auto Dealer

Hagerstown (301) 766-9293

Hagerstown (240) 329-0333

Hagerstown Health

Hagerstown Honda

Hagerstown (301) 797-4020

Hagerstown (301) 799-8676

Paci Chiropractic

Massey Hyundai

Hagerstown (301) 733-4445

Hagerstown (301) 739-6756

Animal Health Care

Auto Repair

Funkstown (301) 733-7579

Boonsboro (301) 969-9919

Cumberland Valley Veterinary Clinic

Keplinger’s Automotive

Hagerstown (301) 739-3121

Hagerstown (301) 773-0760

North Paws

May’s Service Center

Hagerstown (240) 513-6030

Hagerstown (301) 582-0610

Antiques

Bank

Hagerstown (301) 739-8075

Hagerstown (240) 850-6274

Memory Lane

Orrstown Bank

Hagerstown (301) 733-7491

Hagerstown (888) 677-7869

Weaver Treasures

Fulton Bank

Hagerstown (240) 707-6884

Hagerstown (800) 385-8664

Saunders Tax & Accounting

Structural Elements

Animal Health Clinic of Funkstown

Beaver Creek

Spicher’s Appliances

Younger Toyota

2nd and Charles Hagerstown (301) 790-7927

Wonder Book Hagerstown (301) 733-1888

Turn the Page Boonsboro (301) 432-4588

Brewery

Antietam Brewery Hagerstown (240) 513-4490

Cushwa Brewing Co. Williamsport (301) 223-3434

Thick-N-Thin Hagerstown (240) 366-4147

Eby’s Garage

Middletown Valley Bank

Brewery – Antietam Brewery

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Childcare

Bright Beginnings Hagerstown (301) 302-3645

Hagerstown Children’s School Hagerstown (301) 739-6886

Little Jack’s Corner Williamsport (240) 366-8484

Computer Service Innovative

Hagerstown (240) 578-4127

PSI Hagerstown

MyTech Hagerstown (301) 992-5869

Garden Supply & Landscaping – TD Design

Day Spa

Bella Salon and Spa Hagerstown (301) 665-1060

Family Practice

Garden Supply & Landscaping

Sagittarius

Hagerstown (240) 313-9890

Hagerstown (301) 766-9575

Partners in Pediatrics

Lovell’s

Hagerstown (301) 791-7060

Hagerstown (301) 733-8733

Leatherman Healthcare

Sunny Meadows

Hagerstown (301) 678-1839

Boonsboro (301) 302-0740

Hagerstown (240) 329-4724

Fitness Facility

Hair Salon

Allegany Dental

Hagerstown (301) 733-0980

Hagerstown (240) 310-9260

Planet Fitness

Bella Salon and Spa

Hagerstown (301) 733-0777

Hagerstown (301) 665-1060

Powerhouse Studios

Kalon

Hagerstown (240) 527-0471

Hagerstown (301) 665-1307

Hagerstown (240) 329-4800

Flooring

Heating & Air Conditioning

Hagerstown Treatment

Hagerstown (240) 329-4904

Hagerstown (301) 739-3830

Carpet Gallery

McIntire HVAC

Hagerstown (301) 739-3422

Hagerstown (240) 527-5945

Dorsey Brothers

Hagerstown Heating and Cooling

Hagerstown (301) 790-2440

Hagerstown (240) 835-5097

Florist

Homebuilding/Renovations

Hagerstown (301) 766-9575

Hagerstown (301) 797-0000

Roostervane

Veterans Restoration

Funkstown (301) 739-2439

Hagerstown (301) 304-3260

Charles A. Gibney

Kellgard

Hagerstown (301) 739-4778

Williamsport (301) 966-3810

Formal Wear

Insurance Agency

Hagerstown (301) 739-3494

Hagerstown (301) 791-7910

J&B

Cumberland Valley Insurance

Hagerstown (301) 665-1070

Hagerstown (301) 797-6480

David’s Bridal

Wright-Gardner

Hagerstown (301) 582-0183

Hagerstown (301) 733-1234

Hagerstown (301) 797-8008

Bodyworks Hagerstown (301) 745-6490

Dental Practice

Hagerstown Smiles

Smithsburg (301) 824-5111

Robinwood Dental Hagerstown/Middletown (240) 313-9660

Dispensary RISE

GLeaf Hagerstown (240) 329-4800

Electrical Contractor

Valley Electrical Service Hancock (301) 748-1228

Tri-State Controls Williamsport

Tied: MEC and JS Electric Hagerstown/Williamsport

Electronics Store Best Buy

Hagerstown (240) 420-8523

Hunt Audio Hagerstown (301) 733-4962

Bridged Technologies Hagerstown (240) 329-2231

Meritus Primary Care

OneLife Fitness

Burkholders

TG Designs

Ingram’s

TD Design

Nahla Mae

Cumberland Valley

Oliver Homes

Bowers Insurance Agency

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12/20/23 3:18 PM

Slow Down, Relax, and Get a Haircut I

n an era of modern hair salons, Aaron Rohrer went backward, opening the Slow Down Barbershop and Lounge, a throwback to the time of a “shave and a haircut, two bits.”

He was teaching at a private school in 2017, but his desire to get into men’s grooming was growing. He entered a barber program part time while still teaching and developed a love for classic haircuts.

“I’ve always been intrigued by hair and hair styles,” Rohrer says. “However I didn’t go all in until I was in barber school. This is when I realized I was drawn to traditional, classic barbering.”

He discovered techniques that merged old-school barbering techniques with salon techniques and thought they produced the best haircuts. “The final result was astounding,” he says. “That’s what I’ve been working really hard to develop. The classics never die.”

The pursuit of that classic style of barbering goes on every day at his shop in the Westview Business Center on North Prospect Street. But the haircut is not the only throwback Rohrer is trying to accomplish. He added the word “lounge” to his shop’s name for a reason. He wants to build a community; a place where men can just hangout whether they need a haircut or not.

The fact that the other three barbers, Mike Demers, Joram Lathrop, and John Varron, have bought into the Slow Down way is Mike Demers, Joram Lathrop, John Varron, and owner Aaron Rohrer. what has helped catapult growth.

For six years now, the concept has been striking a nerve with the Hagerstown community. “We believe we have touched on something folks are life, where community, friendship, and comradery play out looking for, not just locally, but on a broader scale,” Rohrer says. in a casual atmosphere.

Rohrer began his barbering journey when he was 35.

“Our goal is to produce high-quality haircuts that make Initially, he says, he wanted to be a pastor. But as the idea our clients look and feel great. We also want to cultivate an for a speakeasy-style barbershop emerged he realized atmosphere where our clients feel like they have a place to he was headed down a different path. The idea of classic belong,” he says. ”We love when our clients enjoy the space haircuts and a space that caters specifically to men came of the shop, whether they have an appointment or are stopto life. He also wants his shop to be a place where guys ping in to relax or do some work in our lounge area.” can actually slow down, escape the rat race of 21st century – Charles Jeffries

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Jewelry Store

Photographer

Shopping Center

Hagerstown (301) 739-0830

Hagerstown

Hagerstown 212.265.6600

Reed Jewelers

R. Bruce Carson

Nick Betson

Longmeadow

Tie: Doug Via

Valley Mall

Hagerstown (301) 582-0570

Hagerstown (240) 409-9398

Halfway (301) 582-0700

Zales

Monica Wertman

Centre at Hagerstown

Hagerstown (301) 582-9740

Hagerstown (301) 693-3021

Hagerstown

Law Firm

Plumbing

Specialty Medical

Hagerstown (301) 733-7972

Hagerstown (301) 739-9308

Hagerstown (301) 766-9293

Robinson and Robinson

Plumbing Wurx

Capital Women’s Care

Hagerstown (301) 797-0100

Hagerstown (301) 264-7577

Hagerstown (301) 665-9098

Tie: McCurdy/Singer and Eric B. Andrews

Larry and Sons

Meritus Hagerstown Heart

Hagerstown (240) 850-3182

Hagerstown (301) 797-2525

Radio Station

Specialty Retail

Hagerstown (301) 797-9797

Hagerstown (301) 766-9575

WAYZ 104.7 fm

Tie: Gordon’s Grocery

Greencastle, Pa. (888) 950-1047

Hagerstown (301) 739-2957

WWEJ 106.9 fm

Guitar Center

Hagerstown (301) 797-9797

Hagerstown (301) 791-8921

William C. Wantz

Massage Therapy Bodyworks

Hagerstown (301) 745-6490

Structural Elements Hagerstown (301) 766-9293

Massage Envy Hagerstown (240) 513-6981

Tri-State Plumbing & Heating

WJEJ 1240 am

Olde Line Tattoo

Two Men and a Truck

Halfway (240) 347-4827

Hagerstown (240) 200-4348

Yours Truly

Beaver Creek Storage

Hagerstown (240) 347-4881

Hagerstown (301) 791-7852 Hagerstown (301) 665-1566

Personal Trainer

Harvest Pet Grooming & Wash – Pawsabilities

David Ruff Hagerstown (301) 991-1102

Becky Steele Hagerstown (301) 991-1102

Real Estate Office

Roger Fairbourne Real Estate Hagerstown (301) 733-4183

Century 21 – Market Professionals Hagerstown (301) 671-4663

Pet Grooming & Wash

Real Estate Today

Hagerstown (301) 766-9140

Second-hand Shop

Pawsabilities Hearty Pet

Hagerstown (301) 791-7387

Dog Gone Grooming Hagerstown (301) 739-0867

Hagerstown (301) 791-9046

Act II

Hagerstown (301) 739-0552

Goodwill Hagerstown (240) 707-6550

Pet Sitting/Walking

Finders Keepers

Hagerstown (410) 935-7179

Senior Living

Platinum Paws Pet-agrees

Hagerstown (301) 790-0123

Four-legged Friends Hagerstown (301) 791-3780

Hagerstown

Towing/Roadside Service Reliable Towing

Tina Fraley

Hagerstown 240-527-0471

TG Designs

Tattoo Shop

Moving/Storage

Above and Beyond

Structural Elements

Hagerstown (301) 790-2300

Homewood

Williamsport (301) 582-1750

Fahrney-Keedy Boonsboro (301) 733-6284

Hagerstown (240) 500-4733

Cunningham’s Greencastle, Pa. (717) 597-2624

Eichelberger Hagerstown (301) 582-5750

WashCo Tradition

Alsatia Mummer’s Parade Hagerstown (301) 739-2044

Krumpe Donut Drop Hagerstown (301) 733-6103

Antietam Fireworks Sharpsburg

Wedding Venue

Cortland Mansions Hagerstown (240) 446-1758

Elmwood Farms Williamsport (240) 679-5235

Big Cork Vineyard Rorhrersville (301) 302-8032

Williamsport Retirement Village Williamsport (301) 223-7971 28

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Dr. Tara Cumley & Dr. Marie Sausen would like to thank you for all the love and support you have shown us over the years. We are beyond blessed to be a part of the lives of our patients and look forward to continuing to provide a fear free environment for our patients and their pet parents. www.FunkstownVet.com 301.733.7579 26 E. Baltimore St. Funkstown, MD 21734

ANIMAL HEALTH CLINIC OF FUNKSTOWN

Thank you all for voting for us again! We wouldn’t be able to have the event without our visitors, sponsors and volunteers! See you August 17-18, 2024! www.augustoberfest.org 301.991.1329 780 Frederick Street Hagerstown, MD 21740

AUGUSTOBERFEST

Bella Salon & Spa is honored to be a winner in Hagerstown Magazine Hot List!

We would like to express our gratitude to our guests, community, and readers for voting Bella Salon & Spa #1 Day Spa and #2 Hair Salon. www.bellasalonandspa.net 301.665.1060 1691 Langley Drive, Hagerstown, MD 21740

BELLA SALON & SPA Thank you so much to everyone who has supported us. We are honored to be a part of the 2024 Hagerstown Magazine Hot List.

We look forward to continuing to provide our community with quality childcare that meets the needs of all children.

Jen Whittington Owner/Director 24 E Baltimore St. Funkstown, MD 21734 301.302.3645

BRIGHT BEGINNINGS CHILDCARE

Thank you for voting us one of the top real estate brokerages in Washington County. This means a lot coming from our clients, friends and family! We welcome the opportunity to assist you in achieving your specific real estate goals. It’s what we live for. It’s what we do. www.c21marketpros.com 301.671.4663 5 Public Sq. #500 Hagerstown, MD 21740

CENTURY 21

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Thank you to my clients, friends, and family for this vote of confidence and allowing me to assist with your real estate goals. I truly appreciate every one of you. www.crystalc21.com 301.992.8325 301.671.4663 x 105 5 Public Sq. #500 Hagerstown, MD 21740

CRYSTAL PHEULPIN – CENTURY 21

Thank you to everyone for your vote and incredible support. We look forward to continuing to serve all your legal needs in a creative, competent and zealous manner. We could not be more appreciative and thankful!

5 Public Square, Suite 306 Hagerstown, MD 21740 301.745.4142 www.ebalaw.net

LAW OFFICE OF ERIC B. ANDREWS, P.C.

Thank you for nominating Hagerstown Children’s School for the Hotlist. We are grateful to have been a part of 1,700+ students’ lives over the past 30 years. Your continued support has been an important part of our success.

22 N. Mulberry St., Ste 200 Hagerstown, MD 21740 301-739-6886 www.hagerstownchildrensschool.org

HAGERSTOWN CHILDREN’S SCHOOL

Thank you for all of the love and support!

We are so grateful to be able to serve our patients and our community.

Keep brushing and smiling!

1115 Mt. Aetna Road Hagerstown, MD 21740 301.739.7003 www.hagerstownsmiles.com

HAGERSTOWN SMILES DENTAL CARE

Thank you for your support! www.thehouseofkobe.com 301.797.6979 757 Dual Hwy Hagerstown, MD 21740

HOUSE OF KOBE

12/20/23 3:19 PM

Professionals 2024 WINNERS

Bank Teller

Financial Planner

Real Estate Agent

Hagerstown Orrstown Bank

Hagerstown (301) 791-8450

Hagerstown (240) 625-6561

Cassidy Boldyga

Jacob Barr

Crystal Pheulpin

Hagerstown Orrstown Bank

Hagerstown (240) 513-6135

Hagerstown (301) 992-8325

Carmen Fox

Tie: Tyler Hornbecker and Kenneth Smith

Tie: Julie Fritsch and Michael Draper

Kathy Swope

Steven Bass

Ameriserv First National Bank

Boonsboro/Hagerstown

Chef

Insurance Agent

Arik Mills (Rik’s Café)

Patti Perez ReMax

Hagerstown/Hagerstown

Veterinarian

Dr. Tara Cumley

Andrew Clemmer

Funkstown 301-733-7579

Tara Cluck (The Grill at Runways)

Hagerstown (301) 797-6480

Dr. Jennifer Dolan

Hagerstown (240) 707-6466

Kelly Grove

Hagerstown (301) 739-3121

Jay Zuspan (28 South)

Hagerstown (301)797-5500

Dr. Deanna Becker

Hagerstown (240) 347-4932

Christian Wright

Hagerstown (240) 513-6030

Hagerstown (301) 302-7541

Hagerstown (301) 733-1234

Thank you to my loyal clients, friends and family who have trusted me with the purchase and/or sale of their biggest investment, a home. I am so grateful for the honor of being part of the Hotlist again this year.

1830 Dual Hwy Hagerstown, MD 21740 240.818.1650 juliefritsch@machomes.com

JULIE FRITSCH – MACKINTOSH REALTORS

To our amazing customers, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your nominations inspire us to reach new heights, and we are excited to share this achievement with all of you.

118 E Oak Ridge Drive Ste 2000 Hagerstown, MD 21740 301.678.1839 www.leathermanhealthcare.com

LEATHERMAN HEALTHCARE

Our customers are at the heart of all we do at Middletown Valley Bank. We would like to thank everyone who voted for us in the 2024 Hagerstown Magazine Hotlist competition.

24 W. Main Street Middletown, MD 21769 844.533.9211 www.mvbbank.com

MIDDLETOWN VALLEY BANK

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Thank you to all of our wonderful guests for their support! We wouldn’t be where we are without each and every one of you! Thank you so much for your votes!

19800 Jefferson Blvd Hagerstown, MD 21742 240.310.9260 www.nahlamaehairstudio.com

NAHLA MAE HAIR STUDIO

Oliver Homes would like to say “Thank You” to everyone who voted for us for the 2024 HotList. We are a 75 year old family company building new homes in Washington and Frederick County.

19733 Leitersburg Pike Hagerstown, MD 21742 301.797.0000 www.oliverhomes.com

OLIVER HOMES

We are honored and grateful to our amazing clients and the community for voting us onto the 2024 Hagerstown Magazine Hot List.

Thank you for your continued support and trust in our services.

1-888-677-7869 Orrstown.com

ORRSTOWN BANK

12/21/23 10:57 AM

I would like to express my immense gratitude for the opportunity to serve the health and wellness needs of our community. Your support means the world to me, and I am committed to continuing to provide a fear-free environment for all my clients, both new and longstanding. I am truly blessed to be a part of this incredible community.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude for the recognition and support you have given Schula’s.

It is always a pleasure to serve our loyal customers.

www.thepowerhousestudios.com 240.527.0471 22 N. Mulberry Street, Suite 312 Hagerstown, MD 21740

www.schulasgrillandcrab.com 301.714.1397 11285 John F. Kennedy Drive Hagerstown, MD 21742

POWER HOUSE STUDIOS

Year after year, we are blessed by our community! We love serving you! Thank you for your support and for voting for us in the Hagerstown Magazine’s Hot List. info@puravidacoffee.co 301.573.7296 14035 Pennsylvania Ave Hagerstown, MD 21742

PURA VIDA COFFEE

I would like to express my sincere thanks to all my wonderful clients for their continued trust and support. I feel very blessed to be able to do what I love.

It is an honor to be a part of the Hotlist once again.

222 E. Oak Ridge Dr. Ste 2000 Hagerstown, MD 21740 240-625-6561 youragentpatti@gmail.com www.patti-perez.remax.com

PATTI PEREZ – REMAX ACHIEVERS

We thank everyone who trusts us with their towing & roadside needs. Also, thanks to our regular customers for your valued support.

719 Forest Drive Hagerstown, MD 21740 240.500.4733 www.reliabletowingrecoveryllc. business.site

RELIABLE TOWING & RECOVERY

Thank you for your Hotlist vote! We are so grateful for this recognition and the community’s continued support since 1984. We look forward to helping you experience a Less Taxing Life and More Prosperous Solutions.

18710 Crestwood Drive Hagerstown, MD 21742 240.291.1797 www.saunderstax.com

SAUNDERS TAX AND ACCOUNTING

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SCHULA’S GRILL & CRAB HOUSE

We at the Stone House Urban Winery (the SHUW) are humbled and thrilled to be Washington County’s community winery.

Thank you for everything! Blessings to you all in the New Year!

12117 Insurance Way Hagerstown, MD 240.409.6323 www.stonehouseuw.com

STONE HOUSE URBAN WINERY

Thank you for your vote! We appreciate you support and trust in us.

10226 Governor Lane Blvd, Suite 4004 Williamsport, MD 21795 240.500.3141 www.sumofthedigits.com

SUM OF THE DIGITS BOOKKEEPING

Warehouse Cinemas would like to thank everyone for their votes as well as for their continued support of our cinema. We couldn’t ask for a better community to be a part of. We can’t wait to see what 2024 will hold!

20145 Leitersburg Pike Hagerstown, MD 21742 240.608.4900 www.warehousecinemas.com

WAREHOUSE CINEMAS LEITERSBURG

Thank you for choosing Wright-Gardner! We are incredibly grateful and honored to have been voted the best. Your trust and confidence in our services mean the world to us.

100 West Antietam Street Hagerstown, MD 21740 301.733.1234 www.wrightgardner.combusiness.site

WRIGHT-GARDNER INSURANCE

12/20/23 3:19 PM

Eateries

2024 WINNERS Asian Restaurant

Burger

Crab Cake

Hagerstown (301) 797-6979

Hagerstown (301) 302-7541

Hagerstown (301) 714-1397

Nikko

Foster’s on the Point

Nick’s Airport Inn

Hagerstown (301) 714-0005

Hagerstown (301) 739-7182

Hagerstown (301) 733-8560

Sakura

Five Guys

Rik’s Café

Hagerstown (301) 393-8680

Hagerstown (301) 791-4802

Hagerstown (301) 302-7541

Bakery

Casual Restaurant

Dessert

Hagerstown (301) 797-0076

Hagerstown (301) 302-7541

Hagerstown (301) 302-7541

Saffron Bakery

Foster’s on the Point

BJ’s Brewhouse

Hagerstown (240) 329-0220

Hagerstown (301) 739-7182

Hagerstown (240) 513-4040

Lillian’s Bakehouse

Bistro 11

Saffron Bakery

Hagerstown (301) 383-9879

Hagerstown (301) 733-2222

Hagerstown (240) 329-0220

House of Kobe

Sanders Cookie Jar

Rik’s Café

Rik’s Café

Schula’s

Rik’s Café

Happy Hour

Fosters on the Point Hagerstown (301) 739-7182

Rik’s Café Hagerstown (301) 302-7541

Primanti Brothers Hagerstown (301) 228-0933

Ice Cream/Frozen Treat Rita’s Italian Ice

Hagerstown (240) 513-8013

Maugansville Creamery Maugansville (301) 393-5324

Sweetsie’s Clear Spring (301) 582-1166

Bakery – Sanders Cookie Jar

Italian Dolce

Hagerstown (301) 745-6300

Barbecue

Catering

Olive Garden

Hagerstown (443) 491-8777

Hagerstown (301) 223-7070

Fratelli’s

Blackrock Barbeque

Blackrock BBQ

Hagerstown (240) 346-8649

Hagerstown (240) 346-8649

Keep it Smokin’

Rik’s Cafe

Hagerstown (240) 818-3506

Hagerstown (301) 302-7541

Breakfast

Coffee House

El Sombrero

Hagerstown (301) 745-3091

Hagerstown (240) 310-9544

Cacique

Hagerstown Family Diner

Rooster Moon

Hagerstown (240) 707-6330

Hagerstown (301) 790-5040

Cracker Barrel

Pura Vida

Hagerstown (240) 420-0955

Hagerstown (240) 707-6540

Mission Barbecue

J’s Diner

Leiter’s

Cannon Coffee

Hagerstown (301) 582-0408 Hagerstown (301) 393-8733

Latin-American Los Amigos

Hagerstown (240) 420-8000 Hagerstown (240) 469-4402 Hagerstown (301) 739-7207

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The Changing Face of Body Art

W

hen some friends opened a tattoo parlor in a North Carolina mall owned by the Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust, Kim Kruseman says she and her husband Dave were excited but a little bit skeptical. The tattoo industry had always been relegated to less-desirable locations. After seeing the success of their friends’ studio, the Krusemans looked into the opportunity to open their own studio in a PREIT mall.

They found the Valley Mall in Hagerstown and felt the area didn’t have an upscale tattoo studio. “Choosing Hagerstown came pretty easy,” Kim Kruseman says. “The Valley Mall caters to a large area of rural life. [Hagerstown] is the big city to some and offers them what they need. We knew we wouldn’t be competing with big city shops in D.C. and Baltimore. We wanted to give people a safe place to explore the ideas of permanent body art. Opening in the mall allows you to walk in and not feel pressured.”

For more than a decade now, the Olde Line Tattoo Gallery has been part of the changing face of tattooing as body art has become more popular. Their upscale studio emphasizes safety and cleanliness and matching each customer’s needs to an artist’s talents.

“We can cater to all styles, and it is our goal to guide clients to the artist who will be best suited for their idea,” Kruseman says. “This can be different from other shops where you may just get the next artist available.”

The tattoo industry has gained quite a bit of interest over the last two decades as more body art is seen on performers, professional athletes, and in mainstream marketing. It has turned into a true art form, no longer associated with a criminal life.

“Having a tattoo doesn’t make you who you are. You’re either a good person or not and tattoos don’t change that,”

Kruseman says “It’s 100 percent yours. The popularity of honoring loved ones, pets, or marking times in your life has become something people are proud to do.”

The Krusemans and their artists see that as a big responsibility. “Stepping into our shop gives us a chance to change someone’s life permanently,” Kruseman says. “We take that very seriously. We have a sign on the door that says ‘Enter as a stranger, leave as a friend.’ My favorite thing to hear from our clients is how it feels like home, and they stop in just to say hi when they are walking by. We just love that.”

– Charles Jeffries

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Cannon Coffee

Owners Chris and Lindsay.

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coffee shop can serve a special niche in a community, not only offering caffeinated goodness, but also a space for people to gather. Since August 2019, Cannon Coffee has filled that role, adding splashes of culture and vitality to downtown Hagerstown.

Cannon’s coffees, made with house-roasted beans, range from traditional cappuccinos and cold brews to seasonal specials like the Nutcracker Cold Foam (iced oat milk latte sweetened with house-made white chocolate, topped with hazelnut sweetened cold foam, finished with freshly grated nutmeg, cinnamon, and brown sugar) or a Sugar Plum Latte (house-made toasted vegan marshmallow sauce, organic vanilla, and blackberry).

In addition to specialty coffee drinks, Cannon offers bites to eat with healthy bowls, smoothies, toasts, and fresh baked treats. Nosh on a Strawberry Banana Chocolate Waffle (a gluten-free waffle with organic strawberries, banana, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and local maple syrup) or Spicy Avocado Toast made with local Chèvre goat cheese and spicy kimchi sriracha.

The bright and airy downtown shop with a mellow, welcoming vibe would fit well in any urban environment. Whether you take a seat at the counter overlooking the main square, on a comfy leather couch, at a table for four, or on the spacious patio, there’s a perfect spot to enjoy your food and drink.

The name Cannon Coffee comes from South Cannon Avenue, the childhood street name of owner Chris Reese.

In 2018, Reese and his wife Lindsay were living in Baltimore, unhappy with their careers, and longing to start an impactful business. They both loved coffee and thought their hometown of Hagerstown would be the perfect spot to make their dream a reality.

“We had the opportunity to create a space for the downtown community to call a third home, a place to hang with friends, meet with colleagues, or just relax and read a book,” says Reese. “At the same time, we wanted to offer an exceptional coffee and food experience that you couldn’t find anywhere else locally.”

In June of 2023, the pair opened their second location, a hybrid business with a small to-go retail shop in the front and Cannon’s roastery in the back. Roasting their own beans has been a huge, but rewarding, new adventure for the company.

“Beyond serving exceptional coffee, our coffee shop acts as a social hub, fostering community connections and providing a welcoming space for residents and visitors,” he says.

“Our diverse customer base and inviting atmosphere creates a dynamic downtown environment, attracting foot traffic and enhancing the overall vibrancy of our community.”

– Allison Hurwitz

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Liquor Store

Local Steak

Vegetarian Options

Hagerstown (301) 766-4636

Hagerstown (301) 302-7541

Hagerstown (240) 513-6070

Castle Liquors

Tie: Nick’s Airport Inn

Hummus Mediterranean Grill

Williamsport (301) 223-7887

Hagerstown (301) 733-8560

Hagerstown (240) 513-6020

Old Orchard

Bistro 11

J’s Diner

Hagerstown (301) 739-0757

Hagerstown (301) 733-2222

Hagerstown (301) 745-3091

New Restaurant

Sub/Sandwich/Wraps

Winery/Distillery

Hagerstown (301) 739-8669

Hagerstown 301.739.5483

Poke and Sushi

Jersey Mike’s

Hagerstown (301) 393-8833

Hagerstown (240) 850-6900

High Thai’d

Subway

Hagerstown (301) 766-9669

Hagerstown (301) 745-5980.

Outstanding Service

Sushi

Hagerstown (301) 302-7541

Hagerstown 301) 797-6979

Bistro 11

Nikko

Hagerstown (301) 733-2222

Hagerstown (301) 714-0005

The Grille at Runways

Tie: Sushi Bomb, Sakura

Hagerstown (240) 707-6466

Hagerstown

Longmeadow

Café Roma

Rik’s Café

Rik’s Café

Free Range Café

Hartle’s

Stone House Urban Winery Hagerstown (240) 513-4565

Red Heifer Smithsburg (301) 824-5210

Big Cork Rohrersville (301) 302-8032

Wings

House of Kobe

Rik’s Café Hagerstown (301) 302-7541

Stadium Tavern Hagerstown (301) 714-0849

Foster’s on the Point Hagerstown (301) 739-7182

Overall Restaurant Rik’s Café

Entertainment

Hagerstown (301) 302-7541

Bistro 11 Hagerstown (301) 733-2222

The Grille at Runways

2024 WINNERS

Hagerstown (240) 707-6466

Pizza

Rocky’s Hagerstown (301) 790-3852

Family Entertainment

Kids Birthday Parties

Brothers

Hagerstown (240) 608-4900

Hagerstown (301) 420-5867

Discovery Station

Chuck E. Cheese

Hagerstown (301) 790-0076

Hagerstown (301) 582-0707

Maryland Theatre

Pediatric Movement Center

Hagerstown (301) 790-2000

Hagerstown (301) 739-5437

Hagerstown (301) 714-1397

Festival/Special Event

High School Sports

Chic’s Seafood

Boonsboro

Boonsboro

Hangarfest

Smithsburg High School

Hagerstown

Smithsburg

Alsatia Mummer’s Parade

North Hagerstown High School

Hagerstown

Hagerstown

Hagerstown (301) 733-2222

Golf Course

Museum

Nick’s Airport Inn

Hagerstown (240) 313-2816

Hagerstown (301) 739-5727

Beaver Creek Country Club

Discovery Station

Hagerstown (301) 733-5138

Hagerstown (301) 790-0076

Fountainhead Country Club

Hagerstown Aviation Museum

Hagerstown (301) 739-6933

Hagerstown (301) 733-8717

Hagerstown (240) 625-9215

King’s Hagerstown (301) 745-6406

Seafood Schula’s

Hagerstown (301) 739-8220

Bistro 11 Hagerstown (301) 733-2222

Romantic/Special Bistro 11

Hagerstown (301) 733-8560

The Grille at Runways Hagerstown (240) 707-6466

Warehouse Cinemas

Augustoberfest

Black Rock

Sky Zone

Boonsboro High School

Washington Co. Museum of Fine Arts

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We’ve Had Our

Hagerstown’s glam rockers take a final bow, ending a 40-plus year rock ‘n roll career

By Lisa Gregory

KIX circa 1983. By Ted Van Pelt

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K

IX guitarist Brian Forsythe was sitting in a jail cell thinking about how it could all go so wrong. “I had visions of being on an arena stage, and here I was,” says Forsythe, who had been arrested on drug charges. “I couldn’t believe that my life had changed so much.”

As a member of the 1980s rock band KIX, he had played arenas as the opening acts for such bands as AC/DC and Aerosmith. Forsythe left the band in 1993 and Kix broke up not too long after that. “You talk about the high moments but then you have the low moments,” says Forsythe. “Spending two weeks in jail was my low.”

But both he and KIX would make a comeback.

Forsythe would get sober, and the band would reunite before stepping away for good four decades after it all began. Through the ups and downs, the squabbles, the breakups, and the comebacks, one thing always remained constant—the music and the people who loved it.

“KIX has always been one of my favorite bands,” says Kip Winger of the ‘80s band Winger. “They are one of the all-time greatest rock bands.”

“Their music was the soundtrack to our lives,” says longtime fan Cheryl Varkalis.

Adds another longtime fan, Steve Foehlinger, “KIX makes you want to put on your shiny jacket and put on your bowling shoes and dance or take the top off and let your feathered hair blow in the wind as your ripping down the road listening to your favorite tracks.”

KIX, which formed in the late ‘70s, calls Hagerstown home although none of the members were from Hagerstown. “It was a good place for all of us to meet up,” says guitarist Ronnie Younkins of the band members who lived in the surrounding area. “Sort of in the middle.”

The classic lineup of KIX was Younkins and Forsythe, Donnie Purnell, bassist and songwriter, Jimmy Chalfant on drums, and Steven Whiteman on vocals.

“We had been hearing about this guy who played the drums and sang Led Zeppelin songs,” says Forsythe of Whiteman. “So, we went to see him play.”

They were duly impressed by Whiteman’s soaring vocals. And according to Forsythe, Whiteman, who lived in the tiny town of Piedmont, West Virginia, was excited to come to Hagerstown. “He thought he was coming to the big city,” says Forsythe, chuckling.

Hagerstown embraces the band. “They are our hometown heroes,” says Rik Parks, a longtime fan and friend who played a pivotal role in reuniting the band.

In fact, several members of KIX, including Whiteman, have taught music at Parks’ Maryland Institute of Music in Hagerstown. “To be able to have vocal lessons with Steve Whiteman, that was amazing,” says student and KIX fan Shannon Smith.

Parks first heard the band on a 45 rpm record as a 10-year-old. By the time he was a teenager he marveled that “these rock gods were from Hagerstown,” he says. Baltimore and Maryland, too. “We could proclaim them as our own,” says Kirk McEwen, a longtime radio personality for 98 Rock in Baltimore. “You would watch Headbanger’s Ball and see KIX and know they were ours.”

KIX worked hard during the early days. “We would play six nights a week,” says Forsythe. On long hauls to shows, Forsythe did double band duty as the driver.

“I stayed awake by drinking lots of coffee and eating M&Ms,” he says.

KIX landed a record deal in 1981 based on recordings, says Forsythe, of their dynamic live show. The band’s first album was the self-titled “KIX.” The record deal would be less than stellar. Unbeknownst to the band the cost of, say, making videos to support songs “got charged back to us,” says Forsythe. As for royalties, “I think we got three cents or something a record,” he says. “Maybe five cents.”

For their second album, “Cool Kids,” which was released in 1983, KIX was encouraged to take a different more pop-like approach. It didn’t fit the band’s style and band members such as Forsythe knew it. “We were doing final mixes, and our A&R guy came in and says, ‘I want to play something for you guys,’” says Forsythe.

“He pulls out this cassette and its Def Leppard’s ‘Pyromania.’ We hear this big rock record, and we just did this little wimpy commercial poppy record. We knew that record was going to be huge.”

The band got back to rock and roll business with the 1985 release of “Midnite Dynamite.” But it would be the next album, 1988’s “Blow My Fuse” with the power ballad “Don’t Close Your Eyes,” that gave them solid footing on the hair metal map.

While on tour in Japan, “They were treated like the Beatles,” says Don “Rhino” Rhines, a guitar tech for the

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band at the time. “When we landed at the airport there were hundreds and hundreds of people screaming. I asked someone who they were there for. He laughed and said, ‘You guys.’”

It was the glory days of ‘80s rock with all its excesses.

One night, according to Rhines, “a messed up” Duff McKagan, bassist for Guns ‘N Roses, “came in and just trashed our dressing room,” he says. “The guys just stood there and looked at him. What are you going to do? It’s Guns ‘N Roses.”

Guns ‘N Roses and trashed dressing rooms aside, you don’t mess with KIX. Rocky Marr of Mid-Atlantic Rock Reviews and the Marr Army Radio Rock Show, remembers seeing the band open for David Lee Roth of Van Halen in Baltimore.

“It was in the middle of a KIX song, and it just went dark,” says Marr. There was a consensus at the time that maybe KIX was putting on a show that was a little too good for an opener. Or maybe they had just run over on their allotted time. Regardless, these were the hometown boys and fans were not having it. “People started booing,” says Marr.

Despite stories like these the band was and is highly regarded by their peers. “All musicians love KIX,” says Winger, “because they are a true rock band. They’re the real deal all the way up and down.”

Winger co-wrote the song “Bang Bang (Ball of Fire)” for KIX’s album “Midnite Dynamite” before his own band, Winger, took off. “I was just blown away by them,” he says. “And that album is amazing. Steve is such a great rock singer and Donnie was just an incredible songwriter. I was very thankful that they wanted to use my track.”

The band, however, was not left unscathed by the era. Younkins and Forsythe developed substance abuse issues. “I don’t think we were completely over the top

like some bands,” says Forsythe. “But we drank and did coke. It was the ‘80s.”

Both sought help. Younkins first. He entered rehab in Minnesota in January 1989. “I was like a wild animal that first week,” he says. But he soon took to the program. With Younkins leading the way, “I decided I was going to give it a break,” says Forsythe.

The band, says Younkins, was supportive. “The tour bus came to Minnesota, and those guys came and got me at the rehab and met with my counselor,” says Younkins. “Donnie was like, ‘If I ask you to do a pee test, will you?’ I went ‘Yeah, of course.’ I got on the bus and played the next night.”

Life on the road would be different now. “Every time we would stay at a hotel I’d get up in the morning and get a cab and go to an AA meeting,” says Younkins.

Adds Forsythe, “Ronnie and I would room together on the road. We sort of kept each other sober.”

Younkins would fall victim to his demons once again in 2010 when he was being treated for Hepatitis C, the result of sharing needles, he says. The treatment process caused him sleeping difficulties and he was prescribed Ambien, opening the door to active addiction. He got sober again. Then came Covid and the shutdown.

Younkins says he made it through but, “right when shows started to get booked and everybody’s getting the vaccine, what do I do? I go and get loaded,” he says.

After he was arrested, he began to work on his sobriety again. He is over two years sober and continues to make music although he took a hiatus from Kix and was replaced by Bob Pare. Today he describes himself as “humbled and grateful.”

Forsythe too revisited his demons. After several years of sobriety, he began using again. By that time, he was no longer a member of the band and was living in Los Angeles.

KIX burns the stage at Merriweather Post Pavillion for its final show on Sept. 17 last year. Steve Whiteman and Bryan Forsythe under the KIX umbrella. Photos by Mary Ellen Jester

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“I made a conscious choice to start drinking,” he says. “I told myself as long as I don’t do coke I’ll be fine.

Within a few months somebody offered me some coke and it spiraled from there.” He landed in jail.

“It was a good thing,” he says. “It gave me time to get away from the drugs and have a moment of clarity.”

Forsythe has been sober for 25 years.

With Younkins and Forsythe getting healthy, there were high hopes for the band’s fourth album, “Hot Wire,” which was released in 1991. “We thought it was going to be bigger than ‘Blow My Fuse,’” says Forsythe.

But there was a new sound as the 90s dawned.

“We finished the record and went up to Atlantic [Records] in New York to meet with one of their people,” says Forsythe. “We were in his office and this guy opens his desk drawer and pulls out Nirvana. He shows it to us and says, ‘This is the next big thing.’”

Forsythe had had enough. “I thought it was going to get easier as we went,” he says. “But it wasn’t. It was going to get harder. So, I made the choice to leave the band.”

KIX would go on to

break up and the band members went their separate ways and made their own music, including Forsythe with Rhino Bucket, Whiteman with Funny Money with Chalfant on drums and Younkins with the Blues Vultures.

For some band members their paths would continue to cross. For example, Blues Vultures would open for Funny Money. This gave Parks an idea. “We already had three members of KIX,” he says. “So, I approached Steve and said, ‘What if we bring Brian in from California and you guys get up and do some KIX songs at the end of the night?’ He said, ‘I’m totally in.’”

The seed had been planted and the band agreed to reunite in 2003. However, Purnell would not be joining them. He had become disgruntled with Whiteman and accused him of continuing to play KIX songs with his band Funny Money. Mark Schenker was brought in to replace Purnell.

Together again, the band did not disappoint, bringing the same energy and enthusiasm to live shows. “I can remember coming home and my feet hurt and my legs hurt,” says Varkalis. “Then I thought, ‘Well I’ve been to a KIX show dancing for the last three hours.’”

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KIX Credentials Rolling Stone listed KIX fourth album, 1988’s ‘Blow My Fuse,’ at No. 8 on its 50 Greatest Hair Metal Albums of All Time.

It said, the “Hagerstown, Maryland, hicks obsessed with blowing things up and dirty metaphors thereof, Kix made six joyfully rocking and frequently hilarious pop-metal albums between 1981 and 1994. Thanks largely to the shivery suicide-prevention P.S.A. “Don’t Close Your Eyes,” an atypical-in-Kix-land power ballad that just missed Billboard’s pop Top 10, this is easily the one the most people bought…and it’s probably their most solid.”

Entertainment news website Yardbarker ranked KIX No. 14 on its list of the 20 greatest hair metal bands of all time, saying: “Hailing from Hagerstown, Maryland, Kix was making music and garnering a following in the early 1980s, but it was not until 1988 when its release “Blow My Fuse” generated some mainstream love thanks to MTV favorites “Cold Blood” and “Don’t Close Your Eyes.”

The band played on the Monsters of Rock boat cruises, at their annual KIX-Mas shows during the holiday season, and at festivals such as Maryland’s M3 Rock Festival, among other tours and shows. In 2014 the band released a new album “Rock Your Face Off.” All was going well until Covid hit. Shows were cancelled. KIX couldn’t perform in the usual way but played at a drive-in in Frederick with the audience in their automobiles. Mischell Ryder knew she needed to be there. As the Covid shutdown began, Ryder lost her 29-year-old son, Brice, unexpectedly to a heart condition. “I was struggling to find my way,” she says.

She heard about the drive-in show. “Without hesitation, I got tickets,” she says. Ryder and her daughter drove 10 hours to see the band. Once at the show, “I could breathe for the first time,” she says. “That night saved me.”

Ties to the band run deep. When Whiteman recently decided to sell his KIX items at auction, a T-shirt he wore during a performance sold for $450. When it was all said and done the auction made $50,000.

Once the world slowly opened up again, the band returned to doing live shows. But time was taking its toll. During a performance in 2022 Chalfant suffered a cardiac event and collapsed on stage.

Whiteman spoke in interviews of struggling to reach the high notes and was plagued with neuropathy in his feet.

So, the band announced its end with a final show at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland, last September. Fans came from far and wide to bid the boys farewell. Music journalist Sue Hodges drove from Seattle for that last show.

“I cut my journalistic teeth on KIX,” says Hodges, who has written for such publications as ROX Magazine, Maryland Musician Magazine and Shockwave Magazine. “I watched, listened, and learned what a true rock band— that happened to be local—could bring to the rock buffet.” The last article she would write

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before retiring after a nearly 40-year career writing about bands was on KIX’s final show.

Younkins even came back to play a few songs. “It was bittersweet,” he says.

For fans, too. Angie Zepp was a teenager in the ‘90s when she became a KIX fan. She and her father bonded over the band. Sadly, her father committed suicide in 2017. “’Don’t Close Your Eyes’ had more meaning than ever to me,” says Zepp of such lyrics as “wake up, don’t go to sleep.”

Zepp was at that last show for herself and her dad.

When the band played ‘Don’t Close Your Eyes,’ I

sobbed,” she says. “I am just thankful for those memories with him at KIX shows.”

For longtime KIX fan, Jackie Koontz, it was a fitting end to a wonderful musical journey. She has followed the band since the very beginning. “Everybody was standing and singing the songs,” she says. “It was probably the best concert I’ve been to, and I’ve been to a good many.”

KIX leaves behind lots of good music, moments, and memories. They will be missed. “I don’t know if we’ll ever see the likes of them again,” says Winger. “A band like KIX is a rare thing.”

In the end, KIX took its final bow after a performance Sept. 17 last year at Merriweather Post Pavillion. Photos by Mary Ellen Jester

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Project Home looking for individuals to become providers

A

re you willing to open up your heart and home to a person in need? The Washington County Department of Social Services (DSS) is looking for individuals to become providers as a part of their Project Home — Certified Adult Residential Environments (C.A.R.E.) program.

Run by the state, the program pairs providers with individuals 18 years and older with a physical and/or mental disability to provide care in a family setting.

To become a provider, an individual must be over the age of 21 and live in a home where care will be provided. They also must be willing to work with local DSS case managers and the individual in need to develop and implement a care plan. Prospective providers must also participate in training provided by DSS and work well with others. Those selected are reimbursed at set rates for room, board, supervision and assistance. They must demonstrate they have other income to meet their own needs. Duties performed by providers include assisting with and monitoring daily living activities, medication management and provide transportation to appointments.

Washington County DSS has 16 homes as a part of the program and is looking to expand. Providers must have a love of caregiving as well as a desire to

help individuals be successful and get back out into the community when possible. The agency is also looking for providers willing to work with young adults aging out of foster care who might need a little extra guidance before stepping out on their own.

To become a resident in the program, an individual must be over the age of 18, have a mental or physical disability and be willing to live in a family setting. Documentation of disability, income and functional capability will be required. Residents who take medication must be able to self-medicate or be able to learn to self-medicate with cuing and coaching.

Some residents join the program after basic community services can no longer meet their needs including not being able to be physically independent, mobility issues and more assistance needed with personal care. Project Home has about two dozen residents currently in the program.

Participants are provided with opportunities for growth, stimulation and change provided in the least restrictive environment.

Where appropriate, clients are encouraged to develop independent living skills. Case management services are offered to our residents linking each resident with appropriate community activities and supports.

The program provides a more home-like setting and a less costly alternative to nursing homes, psychiatric hospitals and other institutional settings. Individuals are in the program for as long as required while their basic needs are being met.

If you want to apply to become a Care Provider contact our CARE Home Coordinator at 240-420-2158. If you want to make a referral for possible placement in a care home, call the Project Home Supervisor at 443-757-2645.

Washington County Department of Social Services 122 N Potomac Street, Hagerstown, MD 21740 (240) 420-2100 • dhs.maryland.gov/local-offices/washington-county/

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

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SHOP WACO

World Treasures is non-profit thrift shop that offers gently used clothing and household items and supports Holly Place Assisted Living and the Mennonite Central Committee.

Treasure Hunt

By April Bartel

Find your next treasure— or your next outfit—by exploring Washington County’s thrift shops

I

t’s the thrill of the hunt. Whether stalking game for supper or the day’s best bargain, finding what you seek is always satisfying. While some folks insist only new things will do, others turn a savvy eye to second-hand shops for “new-to-me” treasures.

Washington County is prime territory for such excursions. Antique shops and seasonal yard sales aside (those are tales for another day), there are plentiful options within an easy drive of downtown Hagerstown. Some are chains. Others stand alone.

Some support charities. Some run for profit. We explored a few readers’ favorites, learning about economics, fashion, recycling, and community service along the way.

Variety is the operant word here. Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore is a boon for home rehabbers seeking salvaged building materials, from vintage doors and lighting fixtures to lengths of molding to tools and furniture or appliances.

The hulking 2nd & Charles bookstore is an outlet to buy, sell, or trade all sorts of “nerdy needs” and collectibles, while Booksavers touts their place as “new life for 43

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books—Hope for the world!” One relatively new option is Goodwill’s / re•find / in Smithsburg. It is a destination for curated antiques, unique home decor, designer shoes, accessories, and more.

We talked to Horizon Goodwill’s director of retail Lance Crossman, and Craig Foster, marketing and public relations manager. “Goodwill is one of the largest recyclers in the United States, if you count secondhand,” says Crossman, a self-avowed advocate for sustainability

Up to 85 percent of clothing ends up in landfills, and it takes anywhere from 40 to 200 years for clothing to decompose.

Producing one pair of jeans emits a similar amount of carbon as driving a car for 69 miles. practices. “What you see in the store is the tip of the iceberg…The underwater piece is all the items that don’t make it to the sales floor.”

Donations are closely inspected to determine their ultimate value. Op-

Hub City Thrift offers great deals on clothes, shoes, knick-knacks, and home décor.

tions may include up-cycling them into something fresh, extracting usable components, passing them to another nonprofit or traditional recycling.

Crossman notes that Americans typically wear a piece of clothing seven times.

“Then they’re done with it.”

Closet turnover may be quick, but the second-hand category is growing, too. From 1993 to 2023, commercial retail grew 4.9 percent in the U.S. In that same time, thrift/secondhand retail grew 7.5 percent.

We hit Goodwill on Sunday when certain color tagged items are just $1.

We grabbed Old Navy pants, a dress shirt by Weekender, and a bejeweled Notations sweater on sale, piled on top of a few classic board games, suede boots, and a sculpted vase, all for less than $10. Crossman proudly reports, “about 90 cents of every dollar we generate in store goes directly to supporting our missions and initiatives.” The organization also plans to open a low-priced (new) food market later this year.

Amber Mowry, owner of The Overwatch, follows the same thread. The Overwatch is a commercial endeavor with a strong charitable component.

Her family also runs Hagerstown’s JDog

Junk Removal & Hauling and the work is enlightening.

“The things people get rid of aren’t necessarily junk,” insists Mowry. They take donations and salvage the good stuff, channeling the benefits toward helping fellow veterans and military members. They host fundraisers and donate in-demand items, but shoppers can also find Black Rifle coffee on sale next to bins of Lego, cut crystal, electronics, small appliances, and lots of clothes. There’s an entire room dedicated to furniture and décor. In addition to rotating sales, spend $100 (over several trips) and get $10 off the next purchase.

“It is our job to watch out for our brothers and sisters in the military near and far, as well as our local community,” Mowry says, explaining her shop’s blended mission. “We are here to help and happy to serve.”

Hub City Thrift is also a family business. Owners Joe and Regina Calderon pride themselves on providing good values, especially in clothes and shoes.

Joe says, “at the mall, if you’re lucky, a

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pair of jeans may cost $40. With half of that, you can get a whole outfit in this store.”

We found fashions by Liz Claiborne and Gloria Vanderbilt, LuLaRoe, Under Armour, and Chaps, plus great deals on puffer coats and leather jackets hanging next to plentiful kids’ wear and even a few wedding dresses. Donating items will get you 20 percent off a future purchase and Monday is 25 percent off everything for everyone.

World Treasures Thrift is a non-forprofit that benefits the Mennonite Central Committee charity works. Manager Wendy Dahler says the store’s mission is “to share God’s love and help people meet their basic needs.”

Donations and volunteers are always welcome. If you go, check out their monthly silent auctions. There are $.99 specials weekly and seasonal bag sales as well as a frequent buyer punch card. We snagged several dressy dresses, strappy platform heels, Clark’s sandals, silky pajamas, and a B. Moss suit for just $7 total.

Fans also call out Brooke’s House thrift store near their coffee and

The Overwatch in the Hagerstown Premium Outlets is a second-hand store that offers used and new items, including household goods and clothing.

chocolate shop in the South End Shopping Center, Salvation Army, The Hope Center, and The Promise Animal League outlets for their selections and missions. So many choices make it easy to plot your own treasure map. And with spring cleaning on the horizon, it’s a great excuse to donate and restock in one trip.

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DINING

BuddyLou’s seared sesame ahi tuna.

In Hancock, Something Different

By Crystal Schelle

Hancock restaurant offers a destination for hungry travelers who need a little fun

D

iane Smith and her family were living in Rockville, Maryland, when they purchased a fixer-upper in Big Pool. One day, Smith drove through Hancock on an errand and saw that the Lockhouse restaurant on East Main Street was for sale.

She was disappointed because she wanted to try a meal at the well-known site that was within steps of C&O Canal, the Western Maryland Rail Trail, and the Potomac River. Even closed, something about the place spoke to Smith. The building needed some upgrades, but she had a vision—turn it into a place where guests could have good conversations, delicious food, and maybe do a little shopping.

In 2012, she and her husband, Thor, bought the restaurant and over the next couple of years turned it into Buddylou’s Eats Drinks & Antiques. The unusu-

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al name is a hybrid of Diane Smith’s favorite dogs, Buddy and Lucy. But, before BuddyLou’s could happen, the former Lockhouse needed a lot of attention and some reconfiguring to implement the idea of having retail space.

“It took two long years of renovations,” Daine Smith says. “We had to completely renovate the building. It’s all new electrical. All new plumbing. All new everything.”

Today’s Buddylou’s Eats Drinks & Antiques lures diners in with its vibrant and slightly kitschy but fun decor. What makes guests stay is the elevated menu, the antiques shop and its scenic view of the Western Maryland Rail Trail from the expansive deck.

Smith remembers they were lucky when they opened in August 2014. “It was a great beginning as the weather was still really nice, and we were outside on the deck a lot,” she says, before mentioning that the deck was not nearly as furnished as it is now. “We were well received.”

That was until the cold weather came. “That first winter we asked ourselves ‘What have we done?’” she says.

During the season that first year the restaurant drew traffic from travelers seeing the BuddyLou’s billboards along Interstate 70 as well as those coming to town to use the Rail Trail and even travelers taking a slight detour on their way to Berkeley Springs, West Virginia. But when the tourist season slowed as winter approached, so did business.

Smith wasn’t deterred. She says she had faith in the beautiful location and that she would be able to build a customer base with the locals as well as travelers.

“I knew it would just be a matter of time before people, traveling through Hancock, they’d see it and say ‘Hey, isn’t this cool?’”

And not only that, they’d stop, enjoy a meal, and tell their friends to stop, too. “And then it would grow into becoming a true destination,” she says.

Smith gained her restaurant knowledge while watching her mother, who worked in restaurants her whole life. “I can remember wrapping silverware,” she says “I did it all. I’ve worked in the kitchen doing dishes. I’ve helped with prep. I used to make sandwiches for their catering trucks. I did a lot, and my father was a chef. And so, you know, it was kind of in my blood.”

But before buying the restaurant, she had built a company more than 30 years ago that at first started out as a medical courier service. She and her husband grew that into a trucking and distribution logistics company in Frederick called Runners, Inc. But her love of food service never waned.

Smith admits when they started Buddylou’s, she heard nay-sayers who didn’t think she could make it work. “Everybody was telling me, ‘You’re gonna fail,’” she says. However, she started Runners with a baby on her hip and she wasn’t going to be dissuaded. She believed in her business and still

Top: The antique shop at BuddyLou’s contains a carefully curated collection of glass and bottles that is one of the most extensive in the Tri-State Area.

Bottom: BuddyLou’s Crab Benedict with a side of potatoes.

continues to believe that Hancock is just a step or two away from a renaissance.

One thing Smith knew when she opened the doors was that the menu had to be different—too fru-fru or an outrageous ticket price would scare away potential customers, but

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Left: BuddyLou’s apple dumpling with caramel sauce. Right: BuddyLou’s is returning to a live music. Ayla Brown, 2010 “American Idol” contestant, left, with BuddyLou’s owner Diane Smith. Brown has performed at BuddyLou’s. Below: BuddyLou’s expanded outdoor space.

BUDDYLOU’S EATS DRINKS & ANTIQUES 11 East Main Street, Hancock Reservations: 301-678-6460 Dog-On-Dining: 301-678-5858 (LuLu) www.buddylous.com

she also wanted a menu that reflected her business.

Smith hired a chef who helped to craft a menu that could be executed in their kitchen but would also be memorable, or what kids today would call “Instagramable.” The menu is a reflection of Maryland with its crab offerings but also

makes sure to have more health-conscious dinners with Buddylou’s Beyond Burger or Lion’s Mane Mushroom Beyond Crabcake Dinner.

Her personal favorite is the fried bologna sandwich with caramelized pineapple and onion chutney, spicy mustard, and shredded romaine on a Brioche bun with a side of fresh-cut fries.

Although the restaurant’s hours change with the scenery, the brunch menu is a Sunday staple. Reservations are recommended for dinner and brunch because the inside dining is fairly limited.

Although the restaurant’s hours change with the seasons, Sunday Bruch is a mainstay year-round. It’s almost like an elevated Cracker Barrel, some items are

for sale, some are not, and even a few are made by Smith herself. One room features an old 1950s television that looks as if it’s jetting off the wall while an old black-and-white TV show is on.

While there, diners can shop at the retail shop upstairs featuring a plethora of goodies. Additionally, she launched a company called LitterCritters that makes stuffed animals by reusing materials. The company employs local artisans to make the animals that are also sold in the retail space.

During COVID, Smith took a portion of the parking lot and expanded the outdoor seating. And downstairs, she made a section into Dog-on-Dining, which opened in June 2022. The separate dining space features human and canine menus. There’s also a fenced-in space for the pups. And pooches can get a special treat with Blu’s Puppy Cup from the ice cream shop.

One aspect that Smith offered was regularly scheduled live music, although COVID restrictions forced her to close the restaurant and with it the shows. She’s looking forward to restarting the music.

She also hints at yet another “sweet” endeavor at the restaurant.

What Smith cares about the most is that her customers have more than a meal but an experience.

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SMALL BITES

One Sweet Place

By April and Andrew Bartel

For 120 years Olympia Candy Kitchen has been chocolatizing all kinds of treats for area residents with a sweet tooth

H

umans are wired to crave sweets. It makes us happy, if not just a little buzzed. From our ancient ancestors’ yen for berries and honey to the modern-day candy isle, everyone needs a treat every now and then.

When hunting for sweets, Olympia Candy Kitchen in Hagerstown is a great place to start.

J.K. Proferes founded Olympia Candy Kitchen in 1903 in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Brothers George and James Pananes bought the place in 1921 and their family members have been running the business ever since. Throughout its earliest days, the Olympia Candy Kitchen was a hoppin’ soda fountain and dining destination where people could find good eats and smiles throughout all of the hard times of the last century.

George’s son, Will, remodeled the business in 1971 and added a retro ice cream shop in 1978. The younger Pananes added a second location at 13154 Pennsylvania Avenue in Hagerstown in 1986, offering even more ways to satisfy the local sweet tooth and bringing joy to a whole new area.

Currently, the business is run by Will’s son, owner and president, Tony Pananes, along with his wife, Sarah. Tony started bussing tables in the ice

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OLYMPIA CANDY KITCHEN Chambersburg store 717-263-3282 Hagerstown store 301-739-0221 https://olympiacandy.net

cream parlor as a kid. Now he sees the grand vision.

“One of my favorite things about my job is that almost every single person

who comes to the door is happy to be here,” says Pananes. “And they go away even happier because they have good chocolate or some of their favorite candies with them.”

Olympia Candy Kitchen boasts sweets for any type of craving, from the wide selection of year-round favorites to seasonal specialties. The signature line includes creamy-crunchy chocolate covered pretzels, gooey caramels, candied fruits, and classic pecan turtles.

The store’s cases are loaded with fresh chocolate-dipped sandwich cookies, jellies, peanut clusters, marshmallows, and a delectable dark chocolate pistachio bark, all made in small batches.

“We cook all of our caramels and make all of our buttercream centers.

We even have our own recipe for

peanut butter,” Pananes says.

With Valentine’s Day approaching, customers can grab a pre-filled heart box or customize one with their sweetie’s favorites. Patrons can avoid the lastminute rush since chocolate stores well if kept in a cool, low-moisture area. Each season brings new flavors and styles of gummies, chocolates, creamy fudge, and candies, but Olympia’s enduring February favorite is a box of juicy madeto-order, chocolate-dipped strawberries.

There are sugar-free treats, too, along with a host of non-edible gift items.

Every nook of this candy cottage is filled with treats. There are enough collectible stuffed animals and books, puzzles, cards, nostalgic candies, and candles to complete any gift basket.

Olympia’s hand-dipped doggie-treats mean your best furry friend can enjoy something, too. Perishable goodies can be mailed to areas within a two-day shipping radius.

For Easter (March 31), Olympia’s candy makers will churn out dozens of molded chocolate figures, from bunnies and chicks to airplanes and everything in between.

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Just brew and drink General Warfield’s Coffee Peruvian whole bean

L

ooking for a clean, smooth cup of coffee? One of the most popular products for General Warfield’s Coffee is their speciality grade pure Arabica Peruvian whole bean.

A medium-roast, the fair trade and organic certified single origin coffee features beans grown in the high altitudes of Cusco, Peru through the acclaimed Huadquina Cooperative featuring small, family-owned farms. The Speciality Coffee Association (SCA) has scored these beans at a 92+ — a top tier score which rates beans worldwide. With tasting notes of chocolate, black tea and honey, the beans are gluten-free and vegan- and keto-friendly.

“It is a very clean cup all the way through,” says John Warfield, who co-owns the business with his wife Onome. “You keep those tasting notes all the way through. You don’t get any bitter aftertaste. It is my favorite. …The people who are buying are loving it.

We’ve had great feedback.”

The Warfields note this coffee blend is the first time they can drink a cup straight black without adding anything and enjoy it. “I love it just the way it is,” he says. “Just brew it and drink it.”

In addition to the Peruvian, the company also offers a single origin Colombian and a speciality blend featuring beans from Central and South America. Coming in early 2024, they will be expanding their menu to include a whole bean Ethiopian product.

Each coffee from the Hagerstown-based company features sustainable packaging.

General Warfield’s Coffee marched into the marketplace in August 2022. The Warfields were first inspired to start a coffee company after a trip to Mauritius where they tasted the best cup of coffee of their lives. The experience led them to launch a business to provide others with the same unforgettable experience.

The region is known for its extensive Civil War history but many may not know the role coffee played. The beloved beverage helped fuel many soldiers through battles, troop movements, low morale and guard duty. In a nod to the region’s ties to the Civil War and coffee, the couple named their company after both — General Warfield’s Coffee.

With a passion for sustainable practices, the company makes a donation to plant a tree for every order purchased.

For more information, go to GeneralWarfieldsCoffee.com.

General Warfield’s Coffee 20140 Scholar Drive, Hagerstown, MD 21742 (602) 718-5478 • GeneralWarfieldsCoffee.com

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

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DINING GUIDE 28 SOUTH

28 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown, 240.347.4932 Locally sourced contemporary American fare. $–$$$

ALEKOS 2 GO

511 Northern Ave., Hagerstown, 240.313.4976 Freshly prepared and cooked Greek food made daily. $

$ entrées $10 and under | $$ entrées $10–$19 | $$$ entrées $20 and up

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. $–$$

AMERICAN PIE PIZZERIA

17520 Virginia Ave., Hagerstown, 301.582.6281 Family run business that serves not only pizza but several authentic Italian dishes as well. $$

BENNY’S PUB

49 Eastern Blvd. N., Hagerstown, 301.791.5915 Relaxed venue serving specialty burgers and other pub grub, plus bespoke beers in convivial surrounds. $–$$

BULLS & BEARS

38 S. Potomac St., Suite 1, Hagerstown, 301.791.0370 American cuisine in a New York style atmosphere. $$–$$$

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 THE DOG HOUSE CAFÉ

53 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown, 240.850.2883 Family-owned and operated restaurant that specializes in dozens of unique hot dog creations, great fries, and more. $

BISTRO 11

13208 Fountain Head Plaza, Hagerstown, 301.733.2222 Relaxed and refined cuisine. Full menu of specialties, steaks, and seafood. $$–$$$

BISTRO GRILL

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. $–$$

BJ’S RESTAURANT & BREWHOUSE

EL CASTELLO PIZZERIA & TEX MEX

11205 John F. Kennedy Drive, Hagerstown, 21742, 240.346.8649 Spice rubbed ribs, pit beef, brisket, pulled pork, chicken, and more! $$

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. $–$$

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. $–$$

THE GRILLE AT RUNWAYS

18421 Henson Blvd., Hagerstown, 240.707.6996 Traditional American dining with a quiet and relaxing view of the airstrip. $–$$

HAGERSTOWN FAMILY DINER

431 Dual Highway, Hagerstown, 240.707.6330 Great hidden gem of Hagerstown. $

HOFFMAN’S ALL AMERICAN GRILL

18203 Mason Dixon Road, Hagerstown, 240.707.6600 Casual dining at its finest featuring burgers, steaks, salads, and seafood. $$–$$$

6 Rochester Place, Hagerstown, 301.791.1717 Open for breakfast and lunch, featuring gourmet sandwiches, salads, and soups. $

DOLCE PIZZA GOURMET

BLACK ROCK BARBECUE

1716 Underpass Way, Hagerstown, 301.733.4800 A full menu of steaks, seafood, and other American specialties. $$–$$$

DISTRICT PROVISION & SUPPLY CO.

67 Eastern Blvd. N., Hagerstown, 240.203.7860 A hidden gem of a Mediterranean restaurant featuring salads, gyros, awesome appetizers, a full kid’s menu, and fully stocked bar. $$

17318 Valley Mall Road, Suite C, Hagerstown, 240.513.4040 Handcrafted beer, Chicago-style pizza with a Southern California twist, and Pizookies. $$-$$$

GREENLEE’S FIRESIDE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

792 Frederick St., Hagerstown, 301.745.6300 Italian flavors complemented by Eastern European dishes. $–$$

15616 National Pike, Hagerstown, 301.582.4727 Pizza, salads, lunch specials, and a spicy array of Tex Mex. $–$$

EL RANCHERO MEXICAN RESTAURANT

1481 Wesel Blvd., Hagerstown, 240.420.2842 1715 Dual Highway, Hagerstown, 301.797.7589 Fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine using the highest-quality ingredients available. $$

HUMMUS MEDITERRANEAN GRILL

11205 John F. Kennedy Dr., Unit 108A, Hagerstown, 240.513.6020 A blend of authentic Mediterranean recipes with modern flavors. $–$$

FAJITA GRANDE MEXICAN RESTAURANT

12818 Shank Farm Way, Hagerstown, 240.707.6333 Where the fiesta never ends. $

HONG KONG CHINESE RESTAURANT

1075 Virginia Ave., Hagerstown, 301.733.1292 Veteran eatery serving familiar Chinese dishes in an informal setting. $$

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To be featured on our dining page, email cboteler@hagerstownmag.com for more info!

NIKKO JAPANESE STEAK & SEAFOOD

SAKURA JAPANESE RESTAURANT

POKÉ & SUSHI

SARDI’S POLLO A LA BRASA

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. $–$$

11347 Robinwood Dr. Hagerstown, 301.393.8833 Refreshing Asian alternative. Choose your own ingredients for soups, Poké, rice bowls and sushi. Boba (bubble) tea. $$.

PRETZEL & PIZZA CREATIONS

20 W. Washington St., Hagerstown, 301.733.7795 Calzones, sandwiches, hot dogs, and of course pizza featuring pretzel dough as the star. $–$$

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. $$–$$$

HOUSE OF KOBE

757 Dual Highway, Hagerstown, 301.797.6979 Fine dining featuring sushi and hibachi cooking right in front of you. $$–$$$

HUB CITY DINER

190 Railway Ln., Hagerstown, 240.707.6638 Comfort food served hot and fresh in a family friendly atmosphere. $

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. $-$$

MAMA LULU’S DINER

2 East Potomac Street, Williamsport, MD, 301.223.8010 Fresh made diner favorites in a fun, 50’s atmosphere. $-$$

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

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. $$

PRIMANTI BROS.

17301 Valley Mall, Hagerstown, 301.228.0933 High-piled sandwiches equipped to quell the heartiest of hungers. $

102 Railway Lane, Hagerstown, 301.393.8680 Part Japanese steakhouse, part sushi bar, featuring hibachi dining. $$–$$$

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. $$$

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. $$–$$$

PUBLIC SQUARE CAFÉ

2 W. Washington St., Hagerstown, 240.707.6440 Perfect for a quick bite or a much needed caffeinated pick-me-up. $

PURA VIDA COFFEE

14035 Pennsylvania Ave., Hagerstown, 240.707.6540 Costa Rican inspired coffee shop/ restaurant featuring craft coffees/teas, onsite baked goods, breakfasts, and lunches. $

RAD PIES

10210 Governor Lane Blvd., Williamsport, 240.366.8634 Unique, wood-fired pizza options for the adventurous. $$

REAL DEAL JAMAICAN RESTAURANT

71 W. Franklin St., Hagerstown, 240.513.6393 A concise menu of classic Jamaican comfort foods & soft drinks amid casual digs. $

RIK’S CAFE

1065 Maryland Ave., Hagerstown, 301.302.7541 California-inspired contemporary American cuisine featuring sandwiches, hearty soups, small plates, and salads. $$–$$$

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 $$-$$$

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. $

SITAR OF INDIA

110 Railway Lane, Hagerstown, 301.733.8223 A contemporary atmosphere that complements their traditional Northern Indian specialties. $-$$

STADIUM TAVERN

401 S. Cannon Ave., Hagerstown, 301.714.0849 Crabs and steam buckets, shrimp, and oysters, and don’t forget the wings. $–$$

TACOS CARLITOS

Food Court, Valley Mall, Hagerstown, 240.452.1888 100% authentic genuine Mexican food – the best in town! Daily specials and delivery available. $

TAQUERIA JALISCO AUTHENTIC MEXICAN GRILL

1037 Maryland Ave., Hagerstown, 301.797.2000 Authentic Mexican cuisine with the experience of being in Mexico. $

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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 3 and February 7 NEW TO MEDICARE WORKSHOP 1 p.m.–3 p.m., 6 p.m-8 p.m. 535 E. Franklin St., Hagerstown

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

Tuesdays, January 2 and February 6 ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP 4:30–5:30 p.m., Somerford Place

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

Tuesdays, January 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 and February 6, 13, 20 & 27 HEALTH MATTERS RADIO SHOW 9:30–10 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 4 and February 1 PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

11:45 a.m.–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 8 and February 12 CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP

2–3 p.m., LIFE Lutheran Services, 840 Fifth Ave., Chambersburg, Pa.

Covers a new topic each week. Free; light refreshments served. Call 717.709.2342.

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Mondays, January 8 and February 12 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 15 and February 19 SPINAL CORD INJURY SUPPORT

3–4 p.m., Robinwood Medical Center, Suite 201

Education and support for those who have suffered a spinal cord injury and are now adjusting to their disabilities. Call 301.714.4070.

Tuesdays, January 16 and February 20 SMART SENIORS

11 a.m.–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 16 and February 20 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 11 and February 15 ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP

6–7 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 30 and February 27 55 UP

11:30 a.m.–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.

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grow-it-all Gardening advice from horticulturist Deborah Smith Fiola

Q:

I’ve seen a lot of Spotted Lanternflies.

I try to smash them but they’re fast.

How long will this last?

(P. K., Smithsburg)

A:

Spotted Lanternflies (SLF) have been migrating south from Pennsylvania since invading in 2012. They feed on more than 70 plant types, especially grapes, fruit trees, and Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus); followed by birch, red maple, black walnut, and willow.

The gray-red SLF adults are treehoppers, and as you’ve seen, they certainly can jump. They also spread by gliding/flying. Adults have been feeding since late summer and laying 1-inch egg masses that resemble white/grey/brown flat mud blotches. Most adults will be killed after a hard freeze.

Nevertheless, every overwintering egg mass contains between 30 and 50 eggs.

Inspect trees, grills, outdoor furniture, rocks, and even cars for SLF egg masses. On large deciduous trees, look beneath large support branches (especially where they intersection the trunk), where 85 percent to 90 percent of eggs are found in clusters (mostly 10 or more feet high).

Scrape egg masses off via a putty knife (or plastic card) into a container of rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer. Don’t scrape them onto the ground, they may still hatch unless you thoroughly crush them with your shoe, bursting it open.

Maryland Extension reports that SLF populations steadily increase over three years, so the worst is yet to come. Thankfully, parts of hard-hit Harford County report that populations eventually decline as parasitoids/predators knock down the populations.

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.

Disclaimer: The information presented in this column may contain cultural and pesticide recommendations that are subject to change at any time. These recommendations are provided only as a guide.

It is the reader’s responsibility by law to read and follow all label directions for any specific pesticide or product being used. Due to constantly changing labels and product registrations, if any information herein disagrees with the label, the recommendations must be disregarded. The use of brand names and any mention or listing of commercial products or services in this column does not imply endorsement

by Landscape IPM Enterprises, nor discrimination against similar products or services not mentioned.

Landscape IPM Enterprises assumes no liability from the use of these recommendations.

Q:

I’m worried about my small (new) birch tree. It dropped its leaves in August, during the long drought (because the little rain we had skipped over us). Anything to do now?

(R. D., Brownsville/South County) A: This was one tough summer for newly planted trees: weeks of limited-to-no rain, parched soil, and extreme heat. (The U.S. Drought Monitor ranked your area as ‘severe drought’).

New/recently planted plants with small root systems simply need more water. They’re at highest risk for damage and death from heat and drought stress, especially during their first two years. Premature leaf drop undoubtedly

followed marginal leaf scorch and wilting.

Consistent deep watering of new trees is crucial, daily initially, then biweekly for the next four to five weeks after planting, then weekly until established (which takes two years minimum).

If you scrape some bark with your fingernail, are branches brown? Do twigs snap when gently bent? If so, the prognosis isn’t good.

I’d suggest waiting until spring for signs of life. Meanwhile, add 3 inches of mulch to the root zone, and water deeply every week until the ground freezes.

Consider asking for a good soaker hose/drip irrigation system.

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ifgevents.com

March 16th: Quad State Beer Fest: ShamRocked!

April 13th: Interstate BBQ & Outdoor Expo May 18th-19th: Quad State Pickle Fest June 8th: Interstate Wine Fest: Island Vibes August 10th: Quad State Rock ‘N Flavor Fest September 14th: Quad State Veg Out October 5th: Quad State Beer Fest: Halloween Hysteria November 2nd: Fall Back Ciders, Spirits & Wine Fest

All IFG Events Take Place at the Washington County Agricultural Education Center 7313 Sharpsburg Pike Boonsboro, MD 21713

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a dose of satire Kenneth Buckler offers a satirical look at really horrible business ideas for Hagerstown, again and again and again.

were designed to mimic actual crab movements, and people felt rather silly sitting on the floor pretending their hands were crab claws. Needless to say, customers were a little crabby after attending.

WASHINGTON COUNTY’S NOT-SO-HOT LIST, VOL. V IN THIS MONTH’S ISSUE WE’VE TAKEN A LOOK AT SOME OF THE COMMUNITY’S FAVORITE AND MOST SUCCESSFUL BUSINESSES. However, what about those businesses which were truly bad ideas from the start, businesses which should probably have never existed? It’s time for the fifth installment of our satirical look at horrible business ideas—our “Not-So-Hot List.”

PERSONAL SERVICES The Fish Whisperer Do you believe your goldfish is possessed by a demonic entity? Is it making strange sounds during the night, or swimming in unusual patterns which resemble witchcraft? The Fish Whisperer can diagnose and treat your goldfish for other-worldly ailments, including demonic possession, haunting by evil spirits, and recovery from alien abductions. Sadly, The Fish Whisperer couldn’t find enough of a market for their unique niche and have turned to opening a fish market instead. Stop by for some great prices on flounder and tilapia.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS Maryland Blue Crab Yoga Studio Fitness buffs rejoice. Unleash your inner crustacean with our innovative yoga studio where participants attempt various poses while imitating the majestic movements of crabs. Residents were very intrigued by this new take on yoga, but membership quickly declined upon becoming aware of the studio rules, including requiring that participants walk sideways at all times and paint themselves blue upon entering the studio. To make matters even worse, all yoga poses

ENTERTAINMENT Retro VHS Rental Store Streaming is so overrated. A lot of retro stores have been opening in Hagerstown in the past decade—retro video games, retro music records, and some local stores are now offering retro furniture sales. Following this trend, it seemed like a good idea at the time to open a retro VHS rental store.

Equipped with thousands of “please be kind, rewind” stickers, the retro VHS rental store was very short lived when customers realized how much of a pain it truly is to rewind VHS tapes—if you can even find a working VHS player these days. Some things belong in the past.

HOSPITALITY Hagerstown Lighthouse Tours Did you know Hagerstown has multiple lighthouses? In probably one of the most predatory tourist traps of all time, Hagerstown Lighthouse Tours promised to provide guided tours of Hagerstown’s most unseen landmarks. Out-of-town visitors flocked to the tours, excited for a taste of history they had no idea existed in Western Maryland. Many then demanded refunds upon learning this was a tour houses in the Hagerstown area that have lighthouse lawn ornaments. Once word spread, Hagerstown Lighthouse Tours had to close up shop. They now work as delivery drivers for The Fish Whisperer fish market.

Fortunately these are fictional businesses, so please don’t follow in their footsteps.

This is a satire article by Ken Buckler.

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