(Photos courtesy of Capital Jewish Museum) When Laurel Shopping Center opened in November 1956, Giant Food was one of its original anchors. Remarkably, the store remains a fixture there nearly 70 years later—as does its classic neon sign. The Capital Jewish Museum’s archives include a fascinating collection of photographs documenting the Laurel Giant through the years. Among them are interior and exterior views from the "Fifteen Fabulous Days" grand opening, including the sto

A line of people form a chain along Route 1 in Beltsville as part of Hands Across America, which took place 40 years ago this May. (Photo: Ralph Bull) A high-angle photo by Doug Kasputin on the cover of the May 29, 1986 edition of the Laurel Leader captures the line of attendees along Washington Boulevard in front of the Tastee Diner and what was at that time Herb’s Carry-Out. This May 25th marks the 40th anniversary of one of the most iconic charitable events ever held: Han

Laurel Noir is a series focused on historic crimes and the darker underside of our hometown. Danny Ward answered his front door on Park...