SHINNSTON -- Kathleen Panek's family has a strong military background.
"My uncles were in World War II," Panek said. "One didn't return, one came back mangled. He had two sons. One retired from the Army. The other retired as a lieutenant colonel in the Air Force."
Last year, when Veteran's day rolled around, Panek and the Mountainstate Association of Bed and Breakfasts offered a promotion to honor those who, she said, paid for our freedom.
"We're putting our money where our mouth is and saying, 'Come in and stay for free,'" she said.
The promotion is for the night of Tuesday, Nov. 10.
What do the guests get at Gillum House? Large, comfortable beds, an antique claw foot tub, handmade robes, and Panek family touches, like dolls and paintings.
"If they're coffee drinkers, they get to choose the country of origin," she said, "And here at the Gillum House, we roast the green coffee beans the night before and serve it fresh ground, fresh perked in the morning."
Gillum House guests can also get a homemade breakfast at the hour they specify. But Gillum House isn't the only bed and breakfast offering this promotion.
"Thomas Shepherd Inn in Shepherdstown. The Manor Inn in Berkley Springs," Panek said. "She has a vet and his wife coming in, he just got back from his third tour of duty in Iraq Thursday."
Panek said it's just a little way to say thank you.
"Those who are fighting now and are in the military now, whether they're fighting or not, they are in the military by choice, so that we can remain free," she said. "And they deserve a thank you."
MABB Members who are participating include:
Gillum House, Shinnston: 888-592-0177
A Nature's Song, Mannington: 304-986-3401
Chestnut Ridge, Dunmore: 304-456-4280
Cunningham House, Spencer: 304-927-2022
Elkhorn Inn & Theater, Landgraff: 800-708-2040
Mt. Airy B&B, Slaty Fork: 304-572-5208
Laurel Lodge, Harper's Ferry: 304-535-2886
Manor Inn, Berkley Springs: 800-974-5770
Thomas Sheperd Inn, Shepherdstown: 304-876-3715
Hilltop Haven, Toronto, Ohio: 888-455-8722
Contact the Inn of your choice directly to book a room for Tuesday's Veteran's Day promotion.
