Note from the Editor
The fall equinox really did signal a change of season this year, sending us to the closet looking for sweaters for an evening walk with the dogs. Orb-weaver spiders (above) seem to be in unusual abundance this year too — perhaps they want to get back to normalcy and just hang out like everyone else.
The cobwebs and chill in the air anticipate the fall holidays. Certainly we expect to see some spookiness as our communities gear up to celebrate Halloween. Trick or Treat in Charles Town and Shepherdstown will remain low-key again this year, without the downtown street closures, but there are still plenty of smaller-scale events around the county — see our Events & Activities page for a few options for ghost tours and other activities. We’ll add updates as additional events are confirmed.
Regardless of whether you like your Halloween costume with or without a mask, CASA-EP is inviting you to get out and walk, run, kayak, skateboard, etc. in its Superhero Challenge to support its children’s advocacy efforts. We’ve provided some suggestions for where you can clock your miles if you want to join the fun. If you really want to push yourself, Freedoms Run still has slots available for its October 16 events.
If you happen to wander onto the Shepherd University campus, you’ll likely see several students in nurses outfits. That’s not a costume they are wearing — it’s a sign of commitment to the community. Give them a smile too and someday they might give it back to you when you really need it.
By Steve Pearson