At Home Places Spring 2021 by Herald-Mail Media

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Sammy Baldwin, Jacob W. Barr, Jennifer Blake, Mary Anne Burke, V. Craig Campbell Jr., Jennifer Dolan, Tim Fisher, Jennifer A. Fitch, Yvonne Ford, Sarah J. Hall, Linda Harkcom, Susan Hurd, Lauren LaRocca, Dr. Chad Larson, Roxann Miller, Shawn Mumma, Sarah Nadeau, Meg H. Partington, Lisa Tedrick Prejean, Sarah Reed, Michael P. Shea, Tricia Lynn Strader, Brandy (Baxter) Stayman, Brittany Wedd, Matthew Wedd, Christina Williams Contributing Writers Meg H. Partington Copy Editing Emmet Burke, Colleen McGrath, Bob Schwartz, Pat Todd, Brittany Wedd, Matthew Wedd Photographers Colleen McGrath Cover Photographer Gannett Creative Solutions Advertising Design

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Kathy Gelwicks, Michelle Horton, Tricia Johnson, Kathi Smith Advertising Sales Brian Tedrick Circulation Director © 2021 Herald-Mail Media AT HOME PLACES is distributed quarterly through selected distribution outlets. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BY COPYRIGHT. Prices, specials and descriptions are accurate as of the time of publishing. This book or parts thereof may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher. Advertising information has been provided by the advertiser. Herald-Mail Media does not make any representations as to the opinions or facts contained herein. All terms and conditions subject to change. The cover, design, format and layout of this publication are trademarks of Herald-Mail Media. To advertise in the next issue of At Home Places, email Advertising Director Dawn Friedman, dfriedman@localiq.com. For editorial content inquires, contact Lisa Tedrick Prejean, lprejean@localiq.com Follow @athomeplaces on Facebook: facebook.com/athomeplaces Twitter: twitter.com/athomeplaces

Pictures & Conversations

GETTY IMAGES

“Alice was beginning to get very tired of sitting by her sister on the bank, and of having nothing to do: once or twice she had peeped into the book her sister was reading, but it had no pictures or conversations in it, ‘and what is the use of a book,’ thought Alice, ‘without pictures or conversations?’ ”

FROM THE EDITOR And so begins Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland.” Boredom leads Alice to follow a rabbit. She falls down his hole, where she finds a magical world of make-believe. Alice and her adventures came to mind during the cover photo shoot for this issue of At Home Places. At first glance, it is easy to overlook the connections made in the photo to the British fantasy tale. Look again and the rabbits seem to be up to mischief. The dangling teacup is ready to fall. What would the Mad Hatter say? The design team at La Rouge Home & Design became immersed in the creative aspect of the scene and had a blast styling it together. They feel strongly about creating spaces that are not only functional, but beautiful and filled with hope. This edition of our magazine is brimming with ideas for moving forward, meeting goals, improving living spaces and getting outside, even if that simply means enjoying time in the backyard. In the coming weeks, we hope you’ll keep the magazine close by as a source of local businesses and organizations that can help you meet your goals.

For our stories, we gathered many pictures to enable conversations. The rest is up to you. Or, as Alice would say, "I don't see how he can ever finish, if he doesn't begin." Lisa Tedrick Prejean, managing editor 301-745-4026 | lprejean@localiq.com It was great to work on the At Home Places cover photo with the design team from La Rouge Home & Design in Hagerstown. Clockwise from lower right: Herald-Mail Lead Photographer Colleen McGrath, La Rouge Designer Shawn Mumma, La Rouge Designer Kierston Dudley, At Home Places Managing Editor Lisa Tedrick Prejean, and La Rouge Designer Sarah Reed. Selfie by Colleen McGrath

Spring F RO M T H E C OV E R

La Rouge Home & Design is so much more than a furniture showroom. We also offer full-tilt interior design services for homes and small businesses in Washington County. We work with people to design and refine beautiful homes and physical environments through inspiration and lifestyle design. We are deeply committed to building strong, long-term relationships with our clients. We take time to understand you and your project, goals and dreams. We design a plan that makes it easy for you to live in the moments that matter. La Rouge is open Friday, noon to 4 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. And other times by appointment. To schedule a design appointment, visit: www.LaRougeHomeAndDesign.com or call us at 833-La-Rouge.

2021

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table of contents

Spring

HOME TRENDS

Spring cleaning tips for your workspace

20 23 28 32 38 42 45 46 48 49

Front doors provide focal point The future is bright for solar energy Pandemic has varied effects on residential construction Hauling services see increased demand Is your home environmentally safe? Pressure washing can make a home look new again Library card is important renovation tool Where to put your money when saving for a home Do’s and don’ts of refinancing Create a kitchen that works for you

16 Ideas to transform your outdoor space

WELL+BEING

56 58 62 64 66

An organized kitchen can improve your health The benefits of growing your own food Telemental health services now available Even during pandemic, program ensures no patient dies alone How to reduce your long-term risk of cardiovascular disease

PETS

Include pets in your home renovation plans

SUMMER CAMPS

71 78 80

Programs scale back or go virtual Come back to summer camp at the library Summer camp is antidote to pandemic living

FA M I LY

83 CORRECTION

Melanie Heuston, chief nursing officer at Meritus Medical Center, was incorrectly identified in a photo caption in the Winter 2021 issue of At Home Places magazine. Heuston helped to develop a No One Dies Alone (NODA) program at the hospital. See page 64 for program details. At Home Places apologizes for the error.

Make your child’s room a mini-museum exhibit!

OUT AND ABOUT

Conococheague Institute features crops grown in the 18th century

SENIOR LIVING

Staying connected, learning, exercising are keys to aging well

LO CA L F L AVO R

91 93

Brewing the perfect cup of coffee Beer, wine, spirits abloom in Washington County

A RTS A N D E N T E RTA I N M E N T

94 97

Joshua Johnson: Portraitist of Early American Baltimore Spring provides hopeful pivot to beauty of outdoors

COMMUNITY

Leadership Washington County – Scholarships make a difference

R E G I O N A L R E A L E STAT E L I ST I N GS

102 Your resource for agents, builders, listings and more!

ON THE COVER

Emerald green mid-century modern chairs inspired the La Rouge design team to push imaginative boundaries for this spring garden scape. Herald-Mail Media Lead Photographer Colleen McGrath captured the scene for our cover and from the cover ad on page 9.

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HOME TRENDS

SPRING CLEANING TIPS FOR YOUR WORKSPACE

While spring cleaning, take a day or two to concentrate on your workspace. You'll thank yourself later when you're able to find everything you need quickly and efficiently. Photos by Colleen McGrath

REED

MUMMA

written by SARAH REED and SHAWN MUMMA, LA ROUGE DESIGNERS It doesn't matter if you have an office job or if you’ve made the shift to work from home, keeping an organized desk and workspace is very important in order to work efficiently. It's not always easy to pay attention to cleaning and organization when you're focused on important deadlines, home schooling and staying healthy, which is why your space can quickly turn into a mess. During spring cleaning time, take a day or two to concentrate on your workspace. You'll thank yourself later when you're able to find everything you need quickly and efficiently.

Consider some of the following cleaning tips for your workspace:

File paperwork. Paperwork can get out of hand fast. Spend some time sorting through your paperwork. File important papers, and shred any personal documents that you don't need anymore. Put all loose paperwork in a filing system and keep folders for any paperwork that you're currently using. As new papers come in, try to deal with them right away, instead of leaving them on your desk for later.

Clean your work surfaces. Since you'll be able to finally see the bottom of your desk, take advantage of the opportunity to clean the surfaces underneath the

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14 old clutter. Also, clean all desk items, such as staplers, pens and paper trays.

Make your business contacts digital. Start a list of all business contacts on your computer, such as in the email address book. Keep track of business name, photos, phone number, mailing address and email addresses. This way you can toss old business cards accumulating on your desk.

Sift through old reminder notes. If you have post-it notes all around the office, sift through them and toss the ones that no longer apply. Reorganize them by priority, or make digital files to keep track of them. Post-its can get disorganized fast, so if you have something on a post-it that's a long-term project, it's better to keep your notes on your computer.

Deal with digital clutter. Cleaning your workspace doesn't apply only to your physical workspace. Is anything cluttering up your computer's hard drive? Go through your e-mail inbox and delete those you don't need or file them away. Clean your computer desktop and delete old files or back them up to an external drive. Take the time to properly back up your files often, so you never lose important work.

Organize your supplies. Gather your work supplies into one area of your desk. Keep them in that space or a specific drawer. This will give them a permanent place so they're not left out and scattered around your desk at all times.

Clean the areas around the room. Vacuum the room around your desk and wash the windows, baseboards and more. It's probably not an area that you often think about, which is why it's likely due for a cleaning.

Make a future cleaning schedule. If spring cleaning for your workspace was a burden on you, it probably means that you let things get out of hand this year. You can prevent it from happening again by doing periodic cleaning of your workspace. Once you have an organizational system in place, you can spend maybe 30 minutes per week keeping everything clean and organized. It's always a good idea to keep your workspace nice and clean. It helps you be more efficient, productive and less stressed. Plus, a clean office environment is more inviting to you, your clients and anyone you work with.

— Places

Visit La Rouge Home & Design, 19761 Leitersburg Pike, Hagerstown, for fresh ideas for your home office space. We have tons of accent pieces, unique items, and design ideas to share with you. La Rouge is open Fridays, noon to 4 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sundays, noon to 4 p.m. and by appointment. larougehomeanddesign.com 833-La-Rouge larougevintage@gmail.com

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HOME TRENDS

Create a backyard oasis

Ideas to transform your outdoor space Above: With many vacations canceled in 2020, homeowners are investing getaway funds into a backyard transformation. Photo courtesy Casey Fence & Deck Below: A fire pit brings charming light and warmth to a backyard oasis. EP Henry photo courtesy Sunny Meadows Garden Center

written by LAUREN LAROCCA People are spending more time at home, and as the weather warms, outdoor spaces are being utilized more than ever before. “A lot of people canceled their vacations last year, so they have extra disposable income to put into their outdoor living space — and they’ve been stuck at home, stuck inside, and they have that desire for extra space,” said Brendan Casey, owner of Casey Fence & Deck LLC in Frederick, Md. “I also think a lot of people are finding that by investing money wisely back into their home, they’re also increasing their home resale value.” If you’re considering expanding or updating an outdoor space to make it more inviting, several options await. Whether you’re thinking of adding a new patio, deck, a fire pit or lounge area, local experts weighed in on what folks are doing to make the most of their outdoor spaces. Here are some ideas.

Spring

2021

A patio area underneath a second-story deck creates a nice, dry space to enjoy, even if it’s raining. Photo courtesy Casey Fence & Deck

Bring your vacation to you

Dine in your backyard

When people began canceling vacations in 2020, Casey said he noticed pretty quickly that clients wanted to re-create their ideal vacation locales at home. “People who would have been going to the beach are looking for that tiki bar kind of beach atmosphere,” he said. “They’re adding string lights to give them that beach party effect. Then you get clients who like being in the mountains and might’ve been headed up to Deep Creek (Md.) who are adding patios in and fire pits to create that bonfire effect like they’re camping. This is what clients want. We’re turning their backyard into their vacation destination.”

Derrick House, owner of Nature Boys Landscape & Construction in Boonsboro, said since people aren’t going out to eat as much, they want to enhance their backyard spaces to include dining areas. Working with clients, Nature Boys can help realize their visions and create new spaces “where the family can gather for barbecues and family fun in a time when options are limited,” he said.

Create patios under second-story decks Casey said a lot of clients have been asking for under-deck drainage systems recently. With drainage systems keeping rain and snow out of the area underneath a second-story deck, a patio below becomes a nice, dry space to enjoy, even if it’s raining or snowing. It’s also a great escape from the heat because it provides some shade. It’s a simple way to make the most of the space you have. “People are trying to find ways to use more of their outdoor space because they can’t go somewhere else,” Casey said.

Landscape lighting is a trend in backyard spaces, not only for enchanting nights with friends, but also for safety on walkways and steps. Submitted photo

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18 Extend the seasons “In this area, there is a big trend toward extending the season(s) to spend (more time) outside,” said Shawn Eby, manager of the Outdoor Living Division at Sunny Meadows Garden Center in Boonsboro. He noted that while adding a fire pit brings charming light and some heat, installing a radiant infrared heating system can add about an extra month of use on both ends of a season and costs only about $1 to $2 per hour to operate, depending on the size of the project. On the same note, Eby said a lot of people are heating small areas around their outdoor kitchen so they can use a grill year-round.

Light it up! Landscape lighting is another trend in backyard spaces. “You might be thinking of spotlights shining on the

Low-voltage lighting is used for safety on front steps. Photo courtesy Sunny Meadows Garden Center

front of the home,” said Eby, but also “small lights for your backyard living space, not only for enchanting nights with friends, but also for safety on walkways and steps. There are myriad options.” With LED, low-voltage lighting available, you can add a lot of lights with little use of electricity.

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HOME TRENDS

Front doors provide focal point

A painted fiberglass Craftsman style door features a single sidelight.

A painted fiberglass door displays a half-moon top glass panel.

written by TRICIA LYNN STRADER

“The trend for house colors is getting darker, so the door is a focal point and they try to make it pop with color,” said Richard Betson of Antietam Builders. "Trending colors are yellow or blue.” Visual-rendering software can be helpful when choosing doors and windows. Contractors can upload a house photo and view how different types of windows or doors would look. Vogel said the Craftsman style has been popular, in an apparent rediscovery of the style. Betson said he is also seeing a trend toward doors with glass panels and a little dentil shelf below the glass — aka Craftsman or Shaker style. Craftsman-style front doors typically include glass in the upper third of the door, with a thick or ornate piece of trim or molding immediately below, according to pellabranch.com. “Glass panels in doors are always popular,”Vogel added, noting that sidelights — slim, tall glass windows on the sides of a door — are popular.

Photos submitted by Oliver Homes Spring is a time for cleaning and home-improvement projects. Perhaps that front door is in need of some TLC, or it’s time to build a new home and select a front door. Should it be somewhat traditional and understated or make a bold statement with a wow factor? Local front door trends typically have been conservative or traditional, said Carl Vogel, sales manager for Oliver Homes. Homeowners used to match shutters or trim, usually a different color from the exterior, but with the style and color options available now, almost anything goes. “Doors used to match the shutters, but now they’re a focal point,”Vogel said. Colors can vary greatly if a homeowner wants to make the entry take center stage.

Spring

2021

This stained fiberglass door has a decorative center oval glass panel and matching sidelights.

Sidelights can be used on one side or both. They can be clear glass, frosted or have a design in the glass panel. According to folklore, multiple-panel doors represent a cross to keep evil out of the home, Betson said. The

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glass panes are typically rectangular, and the number of panes varies. Doors traditionally were crafted from hardwoods, such as mahogany, cherry or oak, but Vogel noted that they can be stained fiberglass to give a realistic wood look. “Fiberglass is better insulated and more durable,”Vogel said.“They’re typically painted, but can be stained to appear (as if) they’re wood.” Other defining features can include wood inset molding that creates a simple, elegant look. Vogel said storm doors also are popular and help protect front doors, even though most of today’s styles don’t need them. Storm doors can be all glass to show off the main door or half glass with screens. When replacing a front door, there are many things to consider — it’s not just about taking one down and hanging a new one. Older houses have doors of varying styles, and sometimes measurements are not standard. “You have to consider the width and height, the door jambs, framing, hinges, and if it swings left or right,” Vogel said.

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GETTY IMAGES

S LAR ENERGY

HOME TRENDS written by ROXANN MILLER Solar energy in the United States is booming. As the cost of using the sun’s energy to produce electricity decreases each year, an increasing number of homeowners are making the decision to “go solar.” After facing a hefty electric bill, Randolph and Latechia Mitchell of Germantown, Md., joined the increasing list of homeowners turning to solar energy. Owning a house with a lot of square footage, a swimming pool and two air-conditioning units caused the couple’s electric bill to soar to a high of $900 a month.

“We went from an average of using 2,000-plus kilowatts a month to now we average 400 (with solar). Last year was the first full year with the panels, and the highest we paid was a little over $300 (a month) – that’s a $500 to $600 difference,” Randolph Mitchell said. Before jumping on the “go-solar” bandwagon, Mitchell had an inspection done to see if the roof on his older home was strong enough to support the equipment. As it turned out, he had to replace the roof before installing a 20-panel solar system there. “It’s a big investment, but it’s worth it,”said Mitchell, who chose to own his panels by financing them for 10 years.

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24 tax credits and other incentives available at the federal and state level, he said. The main incentive offered by the federal government is the Solar Investment Tax Credit, which allows people to reduce the income taxes they owe by up to 26% of the total cost of a solar system installation. Homeowners can start receiving money back in the form of federal and state paybacks from solar power as soon as it is installed, Rawlings said. With a background in recycling, he said starting a solar energy company made sense for him. “I’ve always been very conscious of the environment,” he said.“I want to leave the planet better than it was when I was here. I just want to make sure we’re taking care of the planet. It’s the only planet that we have.”

Payment options

Go Solar with Clint installed solar panels on the roof of Randolph Mitchell’s Montgomery County home. Submitted photos

In the mid-Atlantic region, the average cost to install 20 solar panels is approximately $20,000. In the last decade alone, solar energy has experienced an average annual growth rate of 49%, thanks to federal policies such as the Solar Investment Tax Credit, rapidly declining costs, and increasing demand across the private and public sector for clean electricity, according to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO). Clint Rawlings, owner of Go Solar with Clint in Williamsport, has seen a drastic increase in customers seeking solar solutions over the past decade. “People want to be energy-independent. They don’t want to have to worry about what their electric bill will go up to next month or next year. They don’t want the fluctuations in their cost,” Rawlings said. Not only can going solar reduce an electric bill by 15% or more each month, it can reduce the taxes owed, thanks to

Customers interested in solar energy can choose ownership or a power purchase agreement. Owning a system requires homeowners to finance or pay cash outright. In a power purchase agreement (PPA), a solar company owns and maintains the panels, while the customer reaps the benefits of a lower electric bill. One of Rawlings’ customers, Scott Toback of Hampstead, Md., installed solar panels two years ago and opted for a 20-year PPA. If he sells his home, the PPA will stay with the house and transfer to the new homeowner, Toback explained. “It (solar) is something my wife and I have been talking about and thinking about for a long time … because going green is important and saving money is important,” he said. Since installing solar panels, Toback said he averages $150 a month in savings. “My house is ideal for solar power. It’s on the roof, and the sun hits the front of the house in the morning and the back of the house in the evening,”Toback said. For those considering using solar energy, Rawlings recommended doing plenty of research and having a solar evaluation conducted. “I always offer a free consultation. Most of my job is just about educating the public and seeing if it (solar) is the right fit for them,” Rawlings said.

An investment Ryan Ballard started Western Maryland Solar in Clear Spring eight years ago. “The main reason that people are doing it (converting to solar) is for an investment...It increases the house’s value,”

Spring

2021

A Hamilton, Va., homeowner opted to use solar energy as a power source. Photo courtesy of Mountain View Solar

he said.“Some folks want to do it because they want to be green. And for some older folks, they do it for their upcoming fixed income, to offset the monthly electric bills to make their monthly income go farther.” As for payment options, Ballard doesn’t do leasing. He thinks ownership is best financially for his customers. “It’s a cash deal for my folks. I let my customers figure out how they want to pay for it – loans or pulling out of their retirement account,” he said. He said homeowners will see their electric bill change as soon as their solar system is energized. “To hit that tipping point where it becomes less expensive to have solar than to not have solar is about three to four years,” he said.

Solar growth Since Michael McKechnie founded Mountain View Solar in Berkeley Springs, W.Va., in 2009, he’s seen tremendous growth. “In the first year, our gross revenue may have been $300,000, and now our gross revenue is $5 million. It’s grown a lot,” McKechnie said. Solar is the world’s fastest-growing energy technology, and advancements in the industry continue to be made, he said. “The advancements that we are watching and keeping track of are battery technologies, the software that goes with the batteries and the automation – that’s the growth

market that we’re all watching, and that’s what the consumer is asking for residentially and commercially,” he said. Now, when the power goes off from the electrical grid, the solar energy shuts down, too, but with a generator, people can still have power, McKechnie said. “So, batteries with solar panels create a solar generator and that’s where the batteries come into play. They help you have power when the grid is down,” he explained. Solar is safe and effective, and the prices have come way down. “It’s 20% as expensive as it was 10 years ago – it’s really dropped. So, anybody who looked at installing solar 10 years ago should look at it again,” McKechnie said. Ron and Beth Light of Clarke County, Va., researched eight solar-energy companies before choosing Mountain View Solar to install their system in 2018. “We sought to do something that would be good for the environment and give us a long-term return on our investment as we reduced our utility bill,” Ron Light said. They installed two ground-mounted units with 36 panels each. In the first year using solar energy, they owed nothing for their electricity for 10 out of 12 months. “That is a reason to dance in the morning, when the bill shows up and it’s zero,” he said. Beth said they never regretted their decision. “The cost is not cheap, but it absolutely was worth it, and there was a tax credit. We got 30% of the cost back, and

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Solar energy panels are displayed on a home in Winchester, Va. Photo courtesy of Mountain View Solar

we could spread that credit over three years on our taxes,” she said. Ron stressed that not all companies are created equal, so people should do plenty of research.

“I would encourage consumers to do their due diligence and really figure out everything that goes with it, because it’s not like going down to a market and buying a loaf of bread, because not all loaves are equal,” he said.

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Remodel or build? Pandemic has varied effects on residential construction

written by JENNIFER A. FITCH From significant disruptions in the supply chain to increased demand for home offices, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have upended the homeconstruction industry. Low interest rates for mortgages and loans, though, are helping drive enthusiasm for construction projects. Today’s average buyers for new homes have already owned one or two houses in the past, are considering downsizing, and are shopping the medium- to larger-model single-story options, according to Carl Vogel, sales manager for Oliver Homes. “We’re building lots of one-story homes,” he said. With Realtors reporting dramatically low inventory of existing houses, Vogel said he feels new construction can be a viable option at a price point that is comparable to an

existing home that needs renovations. He added that new homes have warranties and energy-efficient construction. Richard Betson from Antietam Builders said his company doesn’t build many new homes, but, with its renovations focus, like Vogel, he has gotten increasingly more requests for home offices and rooms where children can do online learning. “A lot of people are working out of their living rooms and things like that,” Betson said, and customers are choosing custom outdoor spaces.“They want to have a whole screened room for if they have to move out there to work.” A Redfin report from January described a drop-off in active sales listings, noting 528,903 listings nationwide was an all-time low. The same report found homebuyer demand was up 50% from pre-pandemic levels.

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This Hagerstown home, a Lexington model with a suite at the rear of three-car garage, was built by Oliver Homes. Homeowners often want a suite to accommodate in-laws, grandparents or individuals with disabilities. Submitted photo

The National Association of Home Builders noted strong confidence in the remodeling industry, based on a survey of those working in the industry. “The remodeling market was consistently strong throughout 2020, as homeowners had more time on their hands to improve their homes and add space and efficiency,” NAHB Remodelers Chair Tom Ashley Jr. said in a news release.“However, activity slowed a bit at the end of the year as a result of the rising COVID-19 cases and an increase in economic insecurity.” The coronavirus has impacted the remodeling industry directly and indirectly, Betson said. One major consideration is that if someone on a job site falls ill, the crew has to be isolated due to possible exposure. “It has been very hard to fiddle around with that,” Betson said. Greatly increased prices for building supplies and issues within the supply chain have affected the industry. A sheet of plywood that cost $8 in early 2020 was priced starting at $24 a year later. Betson said he knows a builder who refunded the payments on eight new homes because the higher costs of supplies would have eliminated all of his profits. The tripling of prices is estimated to add $30,000 to $40,000 to a new build. Suppliers shutting down for 14 days after COVID-19 diagnoses and changes in the ways permits are issued also create trials. Some inspectors are doing their work via videoconference, asking contractors to walk around a home and show them on video things such as wiring. “It has been challenging, that is for sure,” Betson said.

Keeping homeowners updated One important aspect during pandemic-era construction is communicating updates to homeowners as much as possible, Betson said. That often means explaining that several stops are required to find enough shingles or siding that match, windows are delayed by several weeks or permits are delayed. Total housing starts in the United States in 2020 were 1.38 million, which the National Association of Home Builders said was a 7% increase over 2019. Vogel said Oliver Homes does semi-custom projects that start with a general design modified to meet buyers’ needs. “Every year, we are doing homes with suites for extended family,” he said, explaining that homeowners often want to accommodate in-laws, grandparents or individuals with disabilities.“That is a regular thing we do.” In January, Redfin chief economist Daryl Fairweather commented that homebuyers were moving quickly to scoop up every property that came on the market. He said pending action from the Biden administration could drive up interest rates, but added that the impact could be small because the Federal Reserve signaled commitment to keeping rates low. “Many homeowners are staying put instead of selling because of the difficulty of finding a new home, even though they could command top dollar for their listing. As we move forward, all eyes will be on mortgage rates, which are historically low now, but may not stay that way for long,” he said in a news release.

— Places

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The clutter has to go! Hauling, junk-removal services see increased demand during COVID

Written by LINDA HARKCOM For the past year, Americans have been cooped up in their homes with more time on their hands than ever before. As they finally have time to clear out basements, closets, attics and garages, they’ve realized that the clutter has to go. The result has been an increased need for junk removal. Thankfully, there are several local businesses and organizations that can help by hauling away unwanted items and trash. “Most people do not have the time, vehicle capacity, and often the muscle, to remove large, heavy items from their homes,” said Kris Detrow, executive director of the Home Builders Association of Washington County.“Due to the fact that people are home more, they are taking the time to make major changes to their homes, resulting in a huge need to remove the debris that comes along with all those improvements.” Junk-removal services are an important service for community members. “Many elderly and disabled people are unable to manage these things for themselves,” Detrow said.

JDog Junk Removal & Hauling Hagerstown recently opened to help with the increased need within the community. The company is owned and operated by Aaron and Amber Mowery of Hagerstown, and is a franchise that is nationally known for its military work ethic and employment of veterans. “We met the marketing team, everyone at headquarters and the owners, Jerry and Tracy (Flanagan), and we fell in love with them and their mission,”Aaron Mowery said. “Their goal is to get the veteran unemployment to under 1%, to be by veterans, for veterans.” Aaron Mowery is a veteran of the U.S. Army. During his service, he was stationed at Fort Carson in Colorado and had a combat tour in Iraq. “We have two veterans employed with us currently – one Air Force veteran and one Army veteran,” Mowery said.“I personally enjoy having veterans on the team, as it brings back the sense of camaraderie and brotherhood that we had while we were in the military. We've been told multiple times that they enjoy the conversation and the camaraderie that they have again while being on the truck.” Mowery said his company territory runs from Shippensburg, Pa., through Southcentral Pennsylvania, and from Hagerstown to Martinsburg and Inwood, W.Va., to Winchester Va.

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JDog Junk Removal & Hauling Hagerstown recently opened to help with the increased need for hauling services within the community. The company is a franchise nationally known for its military work ethic and employment of veterans. Submitted photo

“We also go over to Frederick, Md., and down to Leesburg, Va.,” Mowery said. JDog offers removal of almost everything, including appliances, garbage, yard waste and construction debris; as well as cleaning out of storage units, and foreclosed and estate properties; plus packing of storage containers and moving trucks. Workforce solutions (hourly labor) are available, too, as well as deconstruction and light demolition. JDog does not, however, remove hazardous materials such as gasoline, diesel, aerosol cans or propane. “For hazardous materials, we suggest calling the fire department, or for propane, local propane stores will usually take the propane tanks,” Mowery said. The company offers free estimates. Mowery said pricing is according to volume, which translates to the amount of truck space needed for the items.

Dumpster service Dümpster LLC of Hagerstown offers a different option for junk removal. The company, owned by Kevin Sherman, offers roll-off dumpster service and specializes in small, residential dumpsters to assist in cleanup, renovation or demolition projects. Sherman said he started the company in 2017 because he thought there was a need for small, driveway-friendly dumpsters. “Homeowners do not want an enormous dumpster for home projects. We offer a special dumpster for concrete, rock and dirt, and five other sizes for regular household waste and debris. By having a dumpster on-site, it speeds up your home or business project by saving time spent running to the landfill, along with the wear and tear on your

vehicle. We drop the dumpster, you fill the dumpster, and we haul it away,” Sherman said. Dümpster LLC is a family business. Sherman said his wife works in the office, and his son drives one of the trucks and assists with other duties. “We do pride ourselves on being very professional. Our drivers are knowledgeable and courteous,” Sherman said. The name of his business was chosen with customer service in mind. “I chose the umlaut (ü) because it represents a smile, and we are a driveway friendly dumpster service. We deliver every dumpster with a Ü smile,” Sherman said.“I also chose it because of my German heritage. My mother came to the United States from Germany when she was 11 years old. The umlaut just seemed to be a perfect fit for Dümpster LLC." The company services Hagerstown and areas within an approximately 30-mile radius. The dumpster service includes delivery, pickup, seven days with the rental, and a certain amount of weight, depending on the size a customer chooses. “We do speak with each customer regarding what will be going in the dumpster to try to determine if there may be an issue, such as going over the included weight prior to delivery,” Sherman said.“We place boards under our dumpsters, so they never touch your driveway. We can deliver (the) same day or (the) next day and pride ourselves with having excellent customer service.” The company can only take concrete if it’s put into a concrete, rock or dirt dumpster. It cannot accept hazardous materials, tires, car batteries or liquids, such as gas or oil, propane tanks, or anything with refrigerant or freon. Sherman suggested that people who have those types of items to remove should contact a local landfill for information on how to dispose of them properly. He said many landfills have areas to take items such as batteries, car tires and refrigerators.

Unusual requests Junk-removal businesses haul all types of items, from the very common to the strange and exotic, to very large pieces and jobs. Mowery said his company is most often contacted to haul couches, stoves and refrigerators. Sherman said his dumpsters are requested the most for cleaning out homes, remodeling projects and roofing jobs. Mowery said larger items his company has removed include a hot tub from a customer's backyard, which he said was heavy and awkward.

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34 “We had to take the hot tub up and over the retaining wall that it was sitting inside of, up to the flat surface and then into our truck,” Mowery said. Sherman has encountered some unusual requests, too. “This maybe is not the biggest single thing, but we had a local contractor rent over 25 dumpsters to clean out a hoarder home. That’s a lot of junk,” Sherman said. Mowery said the strangest thing his company has been called to remove so far was an unused queen mattress and box spring that a customer wanted taken away. “This to us was not a normal request; however, we do not ask questions regarding what the client wants taken,” Mowery said. While very odd, it was not as exotic as a request Sherman recalled. “I guess that would have to be the mounted bobcat that literally scared the heck out of me when I first saw it,” Sherman laughed.

Repurposing items Not all items hauled by the two businesses end up at the landfill. Sherman said Dümpster LLC recycles metal and other materials, if possible. Mowery said JDog Junk Removal & Hauling’s goal is to keep 60% to 80% of the things it removes out of the landfill. “We strive to repurpose everything that we can,” Mowery said.“We work with a number of local nonprofits that we are able to donate to, whether it be in the form of the items themselves such as furniture, clothing, appliances, etc., or monetarily from the selling of certain items. We work with Come All Who Are Thirsty, a local nonprofit in Sharpsburg, Ordinary Vet in Smithsburg, as well as Platoon 22 out of Frederick, Md.” Both companies have put COVID protocols in place to keep their employees and customers safe. JDog is offering low-touch or no-touch service, and employees wear masks. “We pride ourselves on no-contact rental, if you choose,” Sherman said.“You can call in your order and then pay online to accept our terms and conditions. Our drivers will follow the directions you’ve provided to drop your dumpster. When you are done, just call us and we will come take it away. Of course, we still work with folks in person, too. Whatever your comfort zone is, we will try our best to accommodate.”

Brooke’s House One local organization not only serves the community by removing unwanted and unneeded items, but does so

Dümpster LLC of Hagerstown specializes in small, driveway-friendly dumpsters. Submitted photo

while providing women with purpose and life skills. Kevin Simmers, founder of Brooke’s House in Hagerstown, said the organization began offering junk-removal services in 2018. Brooke’s House is a nonprofit organization born from a promise Simmers made to his daughter Brooke to open a sober-living house unlike the ones where she stayed, if she remained drug-free for one year. She died April 14, 2015. Kevin Simmers fulfilled the promise he made to his daughter by creating Brooke’s House in her memory. Brooke’s House offers a 16-bed, transitional, sober-living home for adult women in the early stages of substance-abuse recovery. The organization provides a community-based, safe, stable and emotionally supportive living environment for the women by providing them with a tranquil, home-like facility, state-of-the-art treatment and recovery services, and resources to help residents achieve their dreams of living drug-free and productive lives. “My wife and I will probably do this for the rest of our lives. We lost our daughter, which is tragic, and it’s our way of giving back, so other ladies won’t have to go through what our daughter went through,” Simmers said. When the organization broke ground for the facility in 2018, need was met by opportunity.

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Brooke’s House junk removal program not only serves the community by removing unwanted and unneeded items, but does so while providing purpose and life skills to women at the sober-living home. Submitted photo

"We were looking for things to do. We have a 16-foot box truck. People would start donating furniture to us, and if it wasn’t in a condition suitable for our needs, we would tell them we could haul it to the dump for them for a donation to Brooke’s House. It just evolved from there,”Simmers said. By creating social enterprises within Brooke’s House, the organization has an avenue of independent, self-supporting revenue for the home where residents learn new skills and a work ethic. In addition to junk removal, the organization also has Brooke’s House Chocolate, and a dog bathing and grooming service. “All of the women participate. It helps them develop a sense of purpose and life skills, like interacting with the customers, handling cash for payment and either disposing of items at the landfill or the store,” Simmers said. The organization will haul anything except hazardous materials and tires. In addition to picking up items people no longer want, Simmers said his organization has cleaned out all kinds of spaces, including apartments, hoarders’ houses, homes of people who have died, warehouses and attics. “We take everything and leave it in a condition where they can have it for sale or rent or whatever they are going to do with it,” Simmers said. The only charge for the service, Simmers said, is that the organization asks for a donation, as well as the costs to cover the fees from the landfill. Customers receive a receipt

for the donation. “It’s a great way for the community to support Brooke’s House and get something in return,” he said. If someone needs items hauled that they wish to donate to a different organization, Simmers said Brooke’s House will haul it, as long as the customer is willing to make a donation to Brooke’s House for the service. This spring, the organization plans to open a thrift store, which will be connected to the junk-removal program. “People can call us to pick up a donation, and we will decide if it is something we need, or if it can be sold in the thrift store, or if it needs to go to the dump,” Simmers said. “John Barr at Ellsworth Electric is donating a warehouse to us and we should be open sometime in the spring.” Simmers said the thrift store, which will be open on Saturdays, will be in a warehouse on East Lee Street in Hagerstown.

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For more information

Brooke’s House brookeshouse.org | 240-452-8172 facebook.com/brookeshouseofwashingtoncounty Dümpster LLC 240-447-6974 facebook.com/mygreendumpster JDog Junk Removal & Hauling Hagerstown 844-GET-JDOG or 301-331-3801 jdog.com or facebook.com/jdoghagerstown

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Pandemic raises awareness of potential indoor contaminants Written by JENNIFER A. FITCH Precautions for limiting the spread of COVID-19 have many people spending more time in their homes than ever before, whether they are devoting hours to a hobby, working from home, tackling renovations or binge-watching “Schitt’s Creek.” The question is whether your home is as safe as you want it to be. Hidden dangers like radon, mold and lead can lead to sickness and even death. But there are precautionary steps every homeowner can take, and experienced professionals in the Tri-State can provide expert support if needed. “These contaminants, we should not be afraid of, but we should respect them,” said Jocelyne Melton, CEO of Baxter Group Inc. Baxter Group, based in Chambersburg, Pa., tests for and remediates asbestos, mold, lead, radon and water toxins. Its crews control water in basements, clean HVAC systems and test water.

The goal is to avoid what is known as “sick building syndrome,” a situation in which occupants of a residential or commercial building experience health effects that can be linked to their time in that structure. Melton said the COVID-19 pandemic seems to have made people think more about what is in their air and water. “I’ve seen a huge rise in awareness of how important the health of our indoor environment is,” she said. With coronavirus concerns, customers of Baxter Group are asking for use of an electrostatic sprayer to disinfect. The spray kills bacteria and viruses, eliminates odors, disinfects, and temporarily inhibits the growth of mold and mildew. Peter Rosecrans, of Radon Resolvers LLC, said customers have told him they are spending more time than ever in their homes, often in the basement, where they are working from home or sending their children to do schoolwork. “I think because of COVID, people are more conscious of their health and are thinking about radon,” he said.

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39 Carbon monoxide Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be found when someone burns fuel, including the fuel in gas ranges and furnaces. Carbon monoxide can make a person faint and can lead to death. Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are sometimes confused with the flu, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Those symptoms can include headache, dizziness, upset stomach, weakness, vomiting, confusion and chest pain. The CDC reports that more than 400 people die in the United States each year from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning not associated with fires. A battery-operated carbon monoxide detector, or one with a battery backup, can alert residents to the presence of the poisonous gas. They sell for approximately $20 at bigbox stores. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed in sleeping areas to alert someone who might already be in a deep sleep related to carbon monoxide, according to Deanna Pelton, deputy fire marshal with the Hagerstown Fire Department. Tim Stoner, a water consultant for Negley’s Clean Water Center, performs a water analysis at the company’s Greencastle, Pa., location. Submitted photo

Water issues Rusty Stoner, sales manager for Negley’s Clean Water Center, said some of the common issues in this region’s water, particularly well water, are hardness (caused by calcium), iron, varying pH levels, manganese, sulfur, nitrates, total-dissolved solids, lead, bacteria and viruses, and radon. Minerals and chemicals commonly found in public water are calcium and chlorine. Some of these contaminants can be harmful, particularly to fetuses and infants, or cause flu-like symptoms. “It is recommended that you get your water tested one time per year or if you notice a change in your water quality,” Stoner said.“It is also typically needed if you are refinancing or buying a home.” With the COVID-19 pandemic, Negley’s received a higher-than-average number of requests from homeowners wanting to feel more confident about their water quality. “The pandemic has made people more aware of their water because they are home more and are using it more. Ultimately, it is our goal to make sure your water is safe,” he said.

Radon Radon is another gas you cannot see or smell. It forms when soil or rock are breaking down, but becomes dangerous when it builds up indoors. Exposure to radon causes no immediate symptoms. However, radon-related lung cancers are responsible for roughly 27,000 deaths in the United States each year, according to the American Lung Association, which offers two types of radon-testing kits though its website at lung.org. Melton said some maps show where radon is particularly prevalent, but many factors, such as excavation work several properties away, can disrupt uranium in rock. “You can have five houses in a row, and three have radon and two don’t. I recommend everyone test,” she said. Rosecrans learned the trade from Tim Musser of Allentown, Pa., and warns that radioactive decay from uranium and radium can be prevalent in Washington County due to limestone. He cautioned to not necessarily assume a new home has a remediation system installed by a developer. “The most common reaction is, ‘The builder put a pipe in, and I thought we were fine,’” he said.“But all the builder did was rough in a pipe and not put a radon system in.” According to Rosecrans and Musser, the remediation system involves drilling a 5- to 6-inch hole and removing material from it so air can move. The system that is installed

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40 then exhausts air above the roofline to divert it from inside the house. Musser said there have been times when a nonsmoker has contacted him to do radon testing after being diagnosed with lung cancer. He recommends doing biennial testing. “One thing to consider is the house you’re living in may not have been the exposure” in your lifetime, he said.

Lead Houses built before 1978 might contain lead-based paint. People can ingest lead dust by breathing or swallowing it, or by eating soil or paint chips. Lead-contaminated water sickened residents of Flint, Mich., starting in 2014, when a water source was changed. According to the Mayo Clinic, children younger than 6 are especially susceptible to the effects of lead poisoning. Their physical and mental development can be affected through effects like weight loss and seizures. Lead exposure can harm fetuses in the womb.

Mold Molds that are growing can cause health problems such as allergic reactions and asthma attacks. To effectively clean mold growth, the underlying water/moisture problem must be fixed at the same time. The Environmental Protection Agency advises using a professional to remediate mold if the affected area is greater than 10 square feet. For smaller areas, wear an N95 mask, gloves and goggles when cleaning. Melton said Baxter Group worked with one woman who was referred by her doctor after a blood test found mold was the culprit behind a year’s worth of fatigue and flu-like symptoms. The woman was forced into early retirement because of poor health. “She had done some self-mold testing and it didn’t show much of anything,” Melton said.“My guys went in, and within 20 minutes found the issue and the source.”

Asbestos Asbestos-containing materials don’t necessarily pose a health risk unless they are disturbed or damaged, according to the EPA. It advises leaving the materials alone and contracting accredited professionals for inspecting, repairing or removing the materials. Exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma, an aggressive cancer that affects the tissue surrounding the lungs.

Customers of Baxter Group are asking for the use of an electrostatic sprayer to disinfect. The spray kills bacteria and viruses, eliminates odors, disinfects, and temporarily inhibits the growth of mold and mildew. Submitted photo

Fire prevention For fire prevention and avoidance, Pelton suggested installing a working smoke alarm on every floor, with special attention paid to every sleeping area and point of egress. “The way to keep your family and property safe is to have a working smoke alarm,”she said, noting that smoke alarms detect fires when they are small and alert residents to flee. Batteries in smoke alarms with changeable batteries should be changed twice a year. The newer-model smoke alarms with 10-year lithium batteries need to be tested twice a year and the batteries should be replaced on the correct schedule. “We had a fire just last week where people didn’t have working smoke detectors,” Pelton said in January. Precautions to take include ensuring extension cords are only used in temporary situations and to never power appliances for extended periods. The cords can break down, leading to electrical fires.

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The purification and filtration process occurs when air passes through a pre-filter, carbon filter and HEPA filter. Getty Images

Space heaters should not be used with extension cords and should be kept 3 feet from any other object. Not only

Nine tips for reducing indoor air pollution

should lint be cleaned from dryer traps, but hoses and tub-

• Install energy-efficient windows and doors.

ing connected to the dryer should be cleaned, particularly where there are kinks or elbows. “Additionally, cooking fires are always going to be the No. 1 cause of bad fires or property-loss fires,” Pelton said.

Additional concerns Melton advised people to listen to their bodies and not ignore symptoms like headaches, fatigue and nausea. The contaminants in a home or business might not be common ones. Baxter Group worked with one person

• Place air purifiers/sanitizers in each room. • Change filters in the HVAC unit as soon as they appear dirty. • Vacuum regularly with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air)-filtered vacuum. • Confirm that all exhaust fans are sending air outdoors. • Use the kitchen exhaust fan while cooking.

hospitalized after inhaling the contents of a squirrel nest in

• Use the bathroom exhaust fan while showering and then for an additional 20 minutes.

the ceiling.

• Do not smoke indoors.

sickened by Freon leaking from a refrigerator and another

That said, taking precautions, cleaning well and seeking testing when needed can ensure the most dangerous thing in your home is that second box of powdered doughnuts from the pantry.

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• When using chemicals, ventilate well until vapors and gases are diluted or exhausted. – Baxter Group Inc.

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Is it time to give your house a bath? HOME TRENDS

Pressure washing experts weigh in written by LAUREN LAROCCA When decks and walkways become discolored from years of exposure to the weather, they not only are less aesthetically pleasing, but also can be health hazards. While you can rent equipment and do the pressure washing yourself, professionals are often worth the extra cost because they are trained, often have years of experience, and are insured, in the event of any damage — which is less likely when they take care of things, but highly likely if you take on a project yourself. Experts have seen everything: water-damaged electrical boxes, water in windows and siding blown off by high-pressure washes done by homeowners. It’s best to get a couple of bids on a project before determining which professionals to choose and get references, if possible. Make sure the company you select is licensed and insured. If you’re thinking pressure washing is no big deal or isn’t worth the cost, check out videos on YouTube and be prepared

to be mesmerized as patios, fences, decks, outdoor furniture — even rugs — are restored to like-new conditions. “It is important to get your home and patio softwashed to keep away the natural buildup of organic growth in surfaces,” said Adam Hinkle, owner of Hinkle's Pressure Washing in Hagerstown. His company services the Tri-State area. “Especially if you’re a homeowner, that is the forefront of your home. You want it to look good. It’s basic maintenance.” Bob Stahl, owner of Stahl's Power Washing in Hagerstown, said letting walkways and patios go without being cleaned can be unsightly but, more importantly, can be a health and safety hazard. “Pressure washing is very important for mold and mildew allergies. Most people don’t realize how much they’re affected by the allergens right there on their patio when they’re sitting outside,” he said.“People have gotten mold allergies from outside, and they don’t understand, because they say they don’t have any mold inside. We hear horrible stories in this business about mold allergies.”

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To be ahead of the curve, local pressure washing professionals advise homeowners to wash concrete patios every two to three years and decks every five to seven years. Photos submitted by Grove Property Services

On top of this health issue, Stahl said dirt accumulation can make walkways and decks slippery, increasing the risk that people could fall. Wood, in particular, can be especially slick.

‘Like new again’ Nearly all surfaces can be washed, but some require high pressure. Others are more sensitive, like a home’s siding or roof, which require what’s called a soft wash, using low pressure and professional-grade cleaning chemicals. “You can do thousands of dollars of damage if you don’t know what you’re doing,” Stahl said.“Pressure washing can potentially damage metal, wood and other surfaces.” To be ahead of the curve, local pressure-washing professionals advise homeown- It’s important to keep walkways clean because the buildup of dirt can make them slippery, making people more prone to falls. Photos submitted by Stahl's Power Washing ers to wash concrete patios every two to three years and decks every five to seven years — Grove worked with real estate agent Amanda Linthicum although no surface is too old for a cleaning. to clean a house in Hedgesville, W.Va., in February, even Timing depends on location and how much debris when there was snow on the ground. and mildew accumulate. “There was all this green, messy mildew that needed (to Austin Grove, of Grove Property Services in Hagerstown, be) washed. It was really hard to find someone willing to said the north-facing side of a home is always the greenest, do it in the middle of winter and right after a snowstorm,” since shade makes surfaces more prone to mildew. Linthicum said.“Austin did an amazing job. It just made a “After a wash, it’s like new again,” he said.“You do it for huge difference. I don’t always use pressure washing, but the same reason you mow your lawn.” do it with high-end real estate. You just really want it to In addition to providing washing for homeowners, Grove sparkle. I listed that house yesterday, and it’s under contract Property Services works with Realtors to clean homes before they are put on the market. today.”

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HOME TRENDS

Time for home renovations?

Your library card can be an important tool written by SARAH NADEAU COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS LIBRARIAN WASHINGTON COUNTY FREE LIBRARY If your list of potential home projects is getting longer and longer, it might be time to visit the library. That’s right – your local public library is, as always, ready to help. Whether you’re painting the dining room or changing some fixtures, home-improvement resources are available on the shelves and online with e-library services so you can quickly find the information you need to check projects off that list. Washington County Free Library’s catalog of materials is available at washcolibrary.org so you can peruse the shelves to find great reads and information anywhere, anytime. Home-improvement encyclopedias, do-it-yourself and cost-estimator guides, and books with household hacks and organizer tips are great places to start.  There’s no need to watch paint dry if you can instantly download e-books, e-audiobooks and digital magazines on Libby. Search for Washington County Free Library and sign in with your library card number to access more great resources, such as the latest issues of HGTV Magazine, Family Handyman, Country Living, House Decor and more. You’ll be up-to-date on all the latest styles and tips in no time. Our e-library service Hoopla has even more great options for your home-improvement needs.  Databases are another option for accurate information about a variety of projects. The Gale OneFile: Home

Improvement database features a topic finder to help when you aren’t quite sure about what information you need. Enter a topic, such as “refinishing deck,” and select from tiles of specific subjects related to your search (“architecture,”“stains,”“repair”) until you find detailed and useful information. Gale OneFile: Gardening and Horticulture might be useful for curb appeal or sustainable gardening projects. Library staff members are always happy to help you, including providing assistance researching reputable companies and services if you’re not up for every DIY challenge. Be sure to check in with Washington County Free Library, where people and possibilities meet, for one of the most important tools you can own: a library card.

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HOME TRENDS

GETTY IMAGES

Where to put your money when saving for a home written by JACOB W. BARR ARK FINANCIAL ADVISORS Raymond James Financial Services Inc. member

As spring arrives, so does the busiest and most competitive time for buying a new home. So, if you plan to stop renting and purchase a home, make sure you are prepared. Credit score, not biting off more than you can chew and proper spending habits all must be considered when house shopping. All of those contribute to one of the most important parts of buying a home – your financial picture. When it comes to buying a home, it is common to need 20% of the home’s value available as a down payment. That can seem like quite a large sum to save, but if you use less than that, you will need to pay for private mortgage insurance, which can get pricey. So, it is to your advantage to be able to put down 20% of the home’s value. How can you save and grow money to get to that value? The money used for buying a house needs to be easily accessible at any time. Additionally, the money should be in an account to which you can add money whenever you wish. While it can be tempting to take a withdrawal from an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or a 401(k), doing so is not typically advised due to taxes, penalties and the long-term cost of giving up compounding interest in such accounts. That could force retirement to be delayed. However, there are several options for buyers to save and grow the money needed for purchasing a home. If you are looking to purchase a house in the near future (three to five

years or less), then one of the best choices is to keep the money you need in a savings account. Or, if you are comfortable with using an online-only bank, such as Ally Bank, a high-yield savings account can provide you the same FDIC protection with a higher interest rate. One option that might look appealing and tempting as a way to grow savings is the stock market. Due to the inherent risk associated with the market, and as a result of the ever-changing environment, it is possible that when the money is needed for the purchase, it can be below its original value. When deciding what is the best option for you, evaluate your whole financial picture, timeline and tolerance for risk. Discuss things with your financial advisor and tax accountant, and anyone else involved in the decision-making process, such as a spouse or partner. Home buying is not a one-size-fits-all process, and neither is saving for that purchase.

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The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets or developments referred to in this material nor is it a recommendation. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of Jacob Barr and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that these statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. Investing involves risk, and you may incur a profit or loss, regardless of strategy selected. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Future investment performance cannot be guaranteed, investment yields will fluctuate with market conditions. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. Ark Financial Advisors is not a registered broker/ dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

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2021

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Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Ark Financial Advisors is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. 20-BRAXN-0022 TA 1/21

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REFINANCING

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Do’s and don’ts of

written by JENNIFER BLAKE REALTOR, LICENSED IN MD. AND PA. SULLIVAN SELECT LLC Mortgage interest rates are at an all-time low, with unprecedented rates. Perhaps you’re wondering if it’s time to refinance your loan. Lenders advertising their refinancing services make it sound as easy as filling out a form and paying less each month. Though that might be true, there are some things you should consider. Not all loans are structured the same, so it’s important to compare options. Even loans with the same interest rate can have different costs, fees and terms. Interest rates are not the only consideration when deciding to refinance. If you are seven years into a 30-year loan, restarting the clock with a new 30-year loan can cost you thousands of dollars. In most cases, it is best to avoid refinancing with a longer term than your current loan. Another point to consider is that the pandemic has created instability in the job market. Consider your employment situation carefully before using precious savings for loan costs. Additionally, if you are moving from a 30-year to a 15-year loan, your payment might increase. Make sure you have the income to comfortably pay the additional amount each month. “You may have the opportunity to lower your monthly payment, shorten your loan term, reduce or remove PMI (private mortgage insurance), consolidate other high-interest rate debt and even take cash out for home improve-

ments or other needs,” said Cathy Ocharzak of First Home Mortgage in Hagerstown.“A common question is ‘Do I need an appraisal?’ Some programs will not require an appraisal if you are reducing the payment only. However, with home values increasing, if you are taking cash out or removing PMI, you may want to have an appraisal completed to benefit from higher values currently.” Ocharzak also said to consider that you will have closing costs, including attorney, lender, appraisal and recording fees; and escrows for taxes and insurance. These often are included in the new loan. Generally, you will skip one mortgage payment and receive a refund of the escrow account balance from the mortgage you are paying off after closing on the new one. Make sure you will keep your home long enough to at least break even on the costs to refinance. If you sell in six months, for example, refinancing probably would not be a good option. Your lender will be able to review the possibilities and options to best assist with your financial needs. Please consider all aspects of refinancing before you decide to be star-struck by the extremely low rates being advertised. This is, however, a great time to refinance, considering such exceptional rates. Do your homework and decide if refinancing is beneficial for you. Stay safe, stay healthy and make this a great year to make your money work for you.

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For more information, contact Jennifer Blake, Sullivan Select LLC, 13146 Pennsylvania Ave., Hagerstown Jenblakehomesales@gmail.com Office phone: 301-745-5500 | Cell: 410-746-4420

Create a kitchen that works for you

HOME TRENDS Cabinets in the Shaker style in a painted finish of white, gray or navy are popular kitchen choices. Photo courtesy of Wish Kitchens & Baths

Written by LINDA HARKCOM In most homes, the kitchen is not only where food is prepared, but is a gathering space for friends and family. While current circumstances have curtailed in-home entertaining, the kitchen is now even more pivotal, as it might also be used for learning or double as a home office. Since the pandemic has caused most people to spend more time in their kitchens than ever before, many are

considering making improvements to this important living space. “Now, more than ever, with clients working from home, we have seen an increase in home renovations,” said Kacie Meyers, sales and design manager at Chambersburg (Pa.) Kitchens & Countertops and The Floor Trader Outlet.“A lot of people are now looking for more versatility in their designs and ability to have multifunctional space, along with wanting a home away from home. Come spring, our trade is

forecasting a huge influx in outdoor kitchens and more spaces that bring the outdoors in.” “We assist customers in finding the right product for our client’s project, while keeping in mind function and design. We also match our client’s job with the right contractors and installers,” Meyers said.

Getting started One of the first steps taken in a remodeling project is choosing a contractor.

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50 Kris Detrow, executive director of the Home Builders Association of Washington County, said it is important to select someone who is established in the community and has a good reputation. “If they have been working in your community, they will have a good working relationship with local government and know how much time they will need for permitting,” Detrow said.

“Ask a contractor for references and to see before and after pictures of jobs they have recently done.” While homeowners might be tempted to purchase goods and services online, Detrow said there is something to be said for looking someone in the eye, explaining your unique situation and the job at hand, then letting him/ her share options. “It is also important to know who will be working in your home around your

family,”Detrow said.“Our members are professionals who hire professionals and are committed to surpassing the expectations of their customers, so that the next time they have a need, whether it be HVAC, flooring, kitchen and bath remodeling, or roofing, they will be the obvious choice. The customer trusts that they stand behind their work.” Meyers said not choosing the right service provider or skimping on products are among the biggest mistakes people make. “Even though you might save a couple of thousand dollars going with cabinets off the internet or going with a certain company, make sure you look at the design and the functionality. It is important to have a kitchen that works for you,” Meyers said. Before reaching out to companies to get estimates, it is helpful for customers to develop the scope of work for the project and establish a budget, said Lisa Staley, kitchen and bath designer for J&D Kitchen Distributors Inc. in Hagerstown. “This will help us recommend products for the remodel,” Staley said.“We also suggest that they visit our showroom so that we can get an idea of the style and color of cabinets that they would like to use, and we can discuss countertop options.” Meyers said each client has different needs. “Keep in mind how you like to cook, what you use most in your kitchen, and, most of all, what you don't like about your current kitchen,” Meyers said.“If this is a house you plan to stay in for years to come, it is important to focus on designing it in a way that makes sense and is functional for you.” A peninsula was removed and a large island added to open up this kitchen. Cabinets extending to the ceiling were installed for added storage. Additional design features include glass in the transom cabinets, a chimney-style range hood and pendant lights above the island. A granite countertop was installed with a coordinating ceramic tile backsplash. Photo courtesy of J&D Kitchens

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51 Staley said a basic kitchen remodel can cost $8,000 to $15,000, while most full kitchen renovations range from $22,000 to $50,000 and higher.

Nunnally advises her customers to consider moving appliances around or changing openings. “Most people get stuck in what they

Trends The biggest trends in kitchen remodeling continue to be painted cabinets and simple door styles, according to Staley. “White continues to be a popular color scheme. Grays and blues are also popular. The new color gaining popularity is green,” Staley said. Mark Wishnow, owner of Wish Kitchens and Baths in Hagerstown, said the most popular type of cabinets with his customers is the Shaker style in a painted finish of white, gray or navy. He said when it comes to sinks, apron and large, single-bowl varieties are trending. “Some of the under-mount sinks have a ledge to accept cutting boards and dish strainers,”Wishnow said. For faucets, Wishnow said metallic stainless finishes are popular, and people are gravitating toward single-lever pull-out and commercial spring pullout sprayers. When customers are choosing material for their backsplashes, it helps to see it where it will be installed. “I like to let customers take the sample of tiles home so they can see it in their setting, because sometimes it has a different shade in the showrooms,” Wishnow said. Kelli Nunnally, kitchen designer with J&D Kitchen Distributors, said cherry wood is being used less in cabinetry, while paint is being used more. “But some people do still like woodstained cabinets, so basically everything is ‘in’ if a client likes it,” Nunnally said. Meyers said people should add a pantry and/or pantry cabinets if they can afford to, because they provide extra storage.

are used to. A good kitchen designer can show them the possibilities for that same space if they are willing to consider a few changes,” Nunnally said.

COUNTERTOP OPTIONS When choosing a new countertop, there are many options from which to choose — from natural materials to man-made. Granite Meyers said of all the options, granite is the best value and is her favorite. “I recommend granite, as long as you like the look of it,” she said. “Granite is a natural product that is incredibly durable and easily maintained. It offers some beautiful movement and has incredible color combinations. Each slab is one-of-a-kind. Even with technology, it is still hard to create something as beautiful as what nature creates.” Granite needs to be sealed because it is porous. It is typically sealed yearly, depending on the product used, a process that is easy to do yourself and does not take much time. “If you do not want that yearly maintenance, you can add a 20-year sealer to the granite and not have to worry about it,” Meyers said. Quartz Meyers said there are many varieties of this man-made material, the most popular choice of her clients. “Many of our clients come in looking for

that marble look without the worries/ maintenance,” she said. “Quartz is the fastest-growing segment, and has designs now that are gorgeous and making great strides in mimicking real stone.” One downside is that quartz is not easily fixed if you get a chip or have some issues with the top finish, but Meyers said some companies offer a lifetime warranty for repairs. “Quartz countertops with white and gray veining are the most popular right now,” Wishnow said. Unlike granite, quartz does not need to be sealed. Marble While marble is a natural stone, Meyers said she does not recommend it to clients for use in the kitchen because it etches and requires maintenance. Soapstone Meyers said sandstone requires maintenance and can easily scratch, but scratches can be sanded with very fine sandpaper. Depending on how much people use the kitchen, they will have to use mineral oil on the material once a week or every couple of weeks. “Soapstone is beautiful and can add a ton of character to a kitchen,” Meyers said.

Butcher block This type of countertop requires oil on the top and is not recommended around sinks. Concrete Concrete countertops are incredibly porous, and Meyers said sealing is essential to maintaining them. “Repairing the concrete is hard to do in keeping the color consistent, and the seams of concrete are still not perfected as much as granite and quartz countertops,” Meyers said. Laminate Laminate is still the most affordable countertop. Meyers said depending on kitchen size, for a couple hundred dollars more, customers can have granite instead. Not considered a forever countertop, this variety has some incredible looks. Large-format porcelain “Porcelain is the only countertop that can handle the heat,” Meyers said. The large format is attractive and can offer a thinner profile, along with durability. The biggest downfall is the edges, which have to be mitered on the front to cover the backer board used in installation.

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52 FLOORING Either out of necessity or desire for a new look, many kitchen renovations include new flooring. Luxury vinyl plank, tile Meyers said luxury vinyl plank and tile have taken over the industry. “It has beautiful, realistic looks, along with versatility and (is) very easy to maintain,” she said. She said those types of flooring are great for kitchens because they are durable, attractive and waterproof, and are comfortable for standing.

Ceramic, porcelain tile “Tile is still regarded as a forever floor, that is until you get tired of the look,” Meyers said. “Tile still has some unmatched looks that you cannot find in other products. It is incredibly durable and easy to maintain, as long as you pick the correct grout. Grout is usually the reason people can't stand tile, and it doesn't have to be.” The downfalls include the hardness and effect it can have on joints when standing on it for long periods. “It is also cold,” Meyers said. “So, if you like to go barefoot, this could be a drawback if you don't

want to add in-floor heat, but in-floor heat can really add to the benefit of tile.” Vinyl sheet goods “Vinyl has come a long way. That curling, yellowing, and seams coming apart you might have experienced with your old vinyl is something the manufacturers have not ignored,” Meyers said. In addition to being easy to clean, affordable and natural-looking, vinyl can be repaired. Cork flooring Cork is great for people’s joints. It also provides a mid-century feel, a style that isn't going away anytime soon, Meyers said.

Appliances When remodeling kitchens, many people choose to replace some or all of their appliances. “Our security system is interwoven with our appliances to have the whole ‘smart-home’ package,” said Callan Spicher, vice president of Spichers Appliances & Security in Hagerstown. “From ovens that can be preheated from an app, to a video camera notification — we can do it all.” According to Spichers President Curt Spicher, the biggest trend for appliances focuses more on aesthetics. “Matte colors are hot right now: slate, matte black and matte white,” he said. Refrigerators now come with three, This backsplash mosaic design features textured glass. Photo courtesy of Chambersburg (Pa.) Kitchens & Countertops and The Floor Trader Outlet.

four and even five doors, as well as a variety of drawers.

Existing wood cabinets were replaced in this kitchen with fresh, white cabinets, which were upgraded to a soft close on all doors and drawers. A bright new backsplash was added for an updated look. Photo courtesy of J&D Kitchens

“Refrigerators are all about keeping food fresh for the most amount of time. The technology is now better than ever to preserve food in the refrigerator and to optimize the fresh food space. Freezers are also now being optimized for organization, i.e. meal prepping or smoothies,” Callan Spicher said. She said the trend in dishwashers is flexibility. “Being able to figure out how the best way you can have your dishes fit without having to play Tetris and have the dishwasher work to fit your needs. There are now bottle-wash jets on top to help clean smoothies in tall bottles, or specific jets for silverware,” Callan Spicher said. Hot trends with ranges, according to Callan Spicher, are new cooking technology and guided cooking. “Air fry in ranges or steam baking turn new food into everyday favorites. App guidance with temperature probes also help guide a new cook (or a nervous cook) through a recipe, so cooking is more accessible to everyone,” she said.

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A new kitchen accentuates the charm of this old farmhouse. Chambersburg (Pa.) Kitchens & Countertops and The Floor Trader Outlet’s design updated flooring, countertops, cabinets and the backsplash. Photo courtesy of Chambersburg (Pa.) Kitchens & Countertops and The Floor Trader Outlet.

One decision many people face when buying a new stove, assuming the utilities are available, is whether to buy a gas or electric version. “Most people prefer what they grew up learning on,”Curt Spicher said.“I like gas, even though it’s harder to clean.” For those who prefer electric stoves, Curt Spicher said most people choose flat tops over coils. “Coil tops are entry-level ranges. They are quality ranges, but if you are looking for more features, I would recommend the flat top. If you love cooking, induction electric ranges are the best on the market,” Callan Spicher said. Those considering redoing a kitchen might want to start looking at appliances now because the pandemic has caused a “perfect storm.”

“Demand is up, and because of social distancing, production is down. Everything takes much longer to get. We have doubled our warehouse capacity so when things become available, we can get extra. Now is the time to plan ahead,” Curt Spicher said.

Home Show Those interested in overhauling a kitchen or other areas of their abodes can stop by the Home Builders Association of Washington County’s annual Home Show, set for Saturday, May 1, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, May 2, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Hagerstown Community College’s Athletic, Recreation and Community Center. Admission is $2 for adults and free those 12 and younger.

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REACH OUT For more information about kitchen remodeling from the designers featured in this story, contact: Chambersburg Kitchens & Countertops and The Floor Trader Outlet: sales@floorandkitchen.com or 717-264-9096 J&D Kitchen Distributors Inc.: sales@floorandkitchen.com or 717-264-9096 Spichers Appliance: www.spichers.com or 301-739-2794 Wish Kitchens and Baths: wishkitchens@gmail.com or 301-733-9474

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AN ORGANIZED KITCHEN CAN IMPROVE YOUR

health written by BRANDY (BAXTER) STAYMAN REGISTERED DIETITIAN

We do all sorts of things to take care of our health – go to yearly checkups, exercise, take our medication as prescribed, etc. But what if there is one, often overlooked, strategy that, with a little time investment, could make our day-to-day healthy habits easier? The kitchen is a room most of us use every day in some capacity – whether it’s making morning coffee, grabbing a snack before running out the door or cooking dinner for the family. Since we use it so much for a variety of purposes, spending time organizing and getting a system in place can make healthy eating much easier. Imagine grabbing lunch before work and having veggies already prepped, visible and ready to go. Or cooking a quick meal and being able to easily grab the spices you need at a glance. These, along with many other strategies, can be put in place, regardless of the size of your kitchen or family.

Try these tips to see which ones fit your family best: Make a recipe binder. Each time you find a recipe you like, print it and put it in a binder or filing system. A binder, set of plastic sleeves and hole punch are all you need to get started, all of which can be found at a discount store. If you can divide the recipes into categories or types of meals, you will have a stack of tried-and-true choices. That helps reduce the mental load of meal planning because you’re not re-creating the wheel each week or trying to remember where the recipe is for that casserole you made last month. Have a white board to plan meals for the week. It can be one specific for meal planning or a generic one. Sketching out dinners for the week is an easy way for everyone

Place healthy foods in plain sight and prep fresh produce right after grocery shopping. Getty Images

to see what’s in store. Since dinners are posted on a white board, things can be easily moved to other days if needed. The board can also serve as a visual reminder of what to thaw or prepare in advance. Rotate foods “first in, first out.” This is a golden rule for commercial kitchens, but can be handy at home, as well. When you put away groceries, put what you just bought behind the items already in your pantry or fridge. That way, you use the older items first before they expire. Doing so also makes you aware of what you already have so you buy fewer duplicates. Keep an inventory list on the refrigerator of frozen meals and other foods in the freezer. Have a blank sheet of paper taped to the side of the fridge. As you put foods or meals in the freezer, write down what they are and the date. As you take items out to use them, scratch them off the list. That prevents you from forgetting about the spinach you froze last year that got pushed to the bottom of the freezer. You'll know which freezer meals you have on hand for busy nights when cooking dinner isn’t feasible, which also makes you less likely to grab carryout. Place healthy foods in plain sight. When we’re really hungry, we grab what we see first or what is convenient. Having a bowl of clementines or bananas on the counter can make it easy to grab them on the go, but if they are in the fridge or pantry, they can easily be forgotten. Put veg-

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57 Having your spices alphabetized ensures that everything you need while cooking is easy to find. Prep fresh produce right after grocery shopping. If time permits, do so right after you get home. That might be the last thing you feel like doing after shopping, but you will be glad you did so later in the week, when you need fresh fruits and vegetables. Store them in clear containers so you can see exactly what you have on hand, which also can reduce food waste. Have a space to sit and eat meals or snacks. Keeping your table or breakfast bar clear helps you be more mindful with your meals and snacks. When you have a specified place to sit and eat, you can focus on your hunger and fullness levels, and how your food tastes. Mindless or distracted eating in front of a TV or computer can lead to eating past your fullness and leave you feeling not truly satisfied after a meal.

Have a space to sit and eat meals or snacks. Getty Images

gies, cheese or yogurts on refrigerator shelves at eye level so when you open the door, they are the first things you see and grab. Keep treats in the pantry or cabinets. If the first thing you see is M&Ms in a candy jar on the counter, it’s so easy to grab a handful each time you pass by. Keeping them be-

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hind closed doors allows you to have them when a craving hits, but reduces mindless grazing.

Brandy (Baxter) Stayman is a registered dietitian with Optimal Health Nutrition Counseling, a division of Capital Women’s Care. Nutrition questions can be submitted to her blog at brandnewyounutrition.wordpress.com/contact.

Alphabetize spices. Searching all over for garlic powder can turn a 20-minute meal into a time-consuming struggle.

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WELL+BEING

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59 Written by TRICIA LYNN STRADER Since humans first went from foraging to growing and cultivating their own food, people of all walks of life have had a garden in some form or another. With more people contemplating becoming self-sustainable, and the COVID-19 pandemic going on for a year now, having a backyard or patio garden has become more popular. Norma Emery of Washington County produces vegetables and herbs for her own consumption and to sell at her business, Baker Canner Co. Her company also makes, cans and sells jams using Washington County fruit. Charles Litton of Litton’s Produce & Berries in Fairplay has been farming and gardening all his life. Both are vendors at the Historic City Farmers’ Market in Hagerstown. Chris Snavely is at Snavely’s Garden Corner in Chambersburg, Pa. All three agree that planning the size, location and water source are important for any gardening attempt.

Soil preparation, fertilization, what to grow “It doesn’t take a whole lot of ground to produce enough for your own supply,” Litton said.“But you have to prepare the soil. Some places have hard clay and only 1 inch of topsoil. When they develop land for housing, they strip the best top soil away.” Some opt for a soil test, but he suggests planning with fertilization. “Work up the soil one year ahead of planting, if possible,” he explained.“Put compost or manure — some sort of organic matter in — and high-calcium lime, and work it under. Let it sit for one year.” Snavely recommended using Penn State soil-testing kits, results from which are available in about 10 days. “Soil quality is vital,” Snavely said.“It involves a good amount of organic matter, the right pH, and nutrients. Every three years, the soil test should be repeated.” Snavely said manure is a good source of organic matter, a go-to used by farmers for generations. It should be turned under/mixed in the soil to enrich it. Others use mushroom compost. Leaf compost adds organic matter, but not as much nutrient value. Snavely said prepared bagged mixes remove the guesswork, noting that certain crops need specific things. TomaFacing page: Cressida Valentino picks tomatoes from the garden. Right: Norma Emery of Washington County grows vegetables and herbs for her own consumption and to sell in her business, Baker Canner Co. Submitted photos

toes might need calcium. Potatoes like a bit more acidity than cabbage or cauliflower. So, gardeners can pick certain spots for certain crops. “Space dictates what you can grow,” Litton said.“Figure out the space allowed and what you like to eat. Some plants take a lot of area. Cucumbers need about an 8-foot space. They grow all over the place, or you can trellis them. Tomato plants need about a 2-foot to 3-foot square.” Litton said raised beds with compost or dirt are an alternative to poor soil. They are beneficial in small spaces or for patios and decks. If a garden space is small, he said concentrate on corn, tomatoes, peppers, beans, onions, beets and radishes. “I plant what I can use in my baked goods and for my own consumption,” Emery said.“If I had to choose a few things to grow, I would pick kale or cabbage, tomatoes, zucchini squash, bush-style green beans (not the vine variety), and butternut squash. These will come in at different times, are fairly easy to grow and are nutritious.” Litton and Snavely came up with a similar list. “Any cold crops are easily grown,” Snavely said.“Cabbage or leaf lettuce are two, and the lettuce can be clipped with scissors for salads. Other crops could be radishes; onions are pretty foolproof, or peas. For warm crops, beans, a compact variety of cucumber or lima beans. Potatoes are easy to grow, and peppers are easy, with lots of varieties.”

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60 Personal taste “Everyone you ask will have their own opinions,” Emery said.“I chose not to plant things prone to pests, like broccoli or cauliflower. I don’t use pesticides. I avoid planting carrots because I have rocky soil, and you need a really good loose soil depth for root vegetables.” Emery said gardeners relying on rain could be disappointed. “You need a watering plan,” she said. She works another job, and has to be prepared for easy crop tending. “You want the garden to be near a water source and within reach of one hose. Most any kind of hose will do,” Emery said.“I lay it out in snake fashion up and down the rows. I poked small holes in it and used irrigation plugs in the holes I purchased online. Make sure at least one plug is next to each plant.” There are different opinions in the gardening world about whether to water in the early morning or evening. Emery said it’s best not to water in the middle of the day, when it’s hottest.

When to plant Some vegetables are planted early in the gardening season, and others are warm-weather crops.“Cold” crops can be planted by late March. They will tolerate cold temperatures and soil. Crops such as potatoes should be planted after danger of frost. Peppers, squash or tomatoes cannot tolerate frost or cold soil, Snavely said. Some plants can be started with seed indoors during late winter — in biodegradable pots or trays — and transferred outside in warmer weather. Emery starts some of her crops with seeds in March using potting soil, depending on space, warmth and light.

Above: Bounty from the gardens of Litton's Produce & Berries in Fairplay. Left: Cressida Valentino “helps” her grandmother Norma Emery prepare the garden after Emery added a weed barrier mat with irrigation plugs. They were digging holes for new plants. Submitted photos

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61 Ground covers

Charles Litton of Litton’s Produce and Berries recommends planting seedlings for tomatoes instead of starting from seed. “If you stagger your plantings beginning the end of April or early May, you can plant until July,” Litton said. “You’ll get tomatoes all year until October if you plant every two weeks.” Submitted photo

After the seedlings get going, a gardener has to ‘harden’ them off slowly (cut down on indoor heat so they get used to cooler temperature changes). “I save butternut and pumpkin seed year to year and plant in late April,” Emery said.“With cucumbers, lettuce, spinach or kale, I put the seeds right in the ground. I start tomatoes indoors as seeds or put in plants after the middle of May.” Litton also recommends planting seedlings for tomatoes or peppers instead of starting from seed. “If you stagger your plantings beginning the end of April or early May, you can plant until July,” Litton said. “You’ll get tomatoes all year until October if you plant every two weeks.” Timing is important, Snavely noted. “When starting from seed, the common mistake is a lack of proper growing conditions for the seed,” Snavely said. “Timing is everything, and light is necessary. It’s difficult to grow a strong plant without excellent light, 14 to 16 hours a day. You may need a fluorescent fixture 12 inches above the plants. It can be easier to wait and grow from plants already started.”

Litton uses plastic mulch and punches poles in it for plants. “Plastic mulch is engineered not to break down under UV sunlight,” Litton said.“If you use a cover sheeting, you want something UV-stabilized.” Emery uses a weed mat made from corn. Pests like deer, squirrels, raccoons and rodents can be problematic, especially in rural areas. One remedy is having a fence around the garden to deter deer, and anchoring it into the ground a few inches can discourage digging pests. Some gardeners, such as Emery, opt for electric fencing. “I had a small garden in 2005, and it didn’t deter the deer. So, I got serious,” she said. She had a contractor install electric fencing, and she designed it with two removable poles and an opening large enough to drive a tractor into the garden for tilling. “Electrifying it doesn’t kill the animals, but will deter them,” Emery said.“There are other options, like deer spray, or using human hair.”

— Places

The Historic City Farmers Market 25 W. Church St., Hagerstown Open Saturdays, year round, 6am-12pm

Spring is in the Air Start Your Weekend with a Trip to the Market! Enjoy breakfast or lunch while shopping from our 26 vendors of unique handcrafted goods, fresh local produce, honey, meat & cheeses, baked goods, candy, coffee, teas, plants & spring ﬂowers, bath & body items, jewelry, handbags, candles, dog treats & more Abby’s Gluten-Free Baked Items & Crafts • April’s Pillows • Baker Canner • Buttercreme Bakery • Chris Cross Café • Crave Bakery • Crystal’s Candles & Gifts • Etta’s Crafts • Eden Wellness • Four Grand Creations • Jeff & Debi’s Grill • Holy Kannoli • Litton’s Produce • M & J Candies • Mamma Jean Snack Shack • Momma’s Spot of Tea • Needle Designs & Manny’s Sweet Tweets • Soﬁe Sage Bags, etc • Snookie’s Cookies • Stop, Buy ‘N See • Susan’s Creations • The Crafty Queen • Ti Boutik • Urban Delightz • WindUp Raven • Woven Treasures

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written by MICHAEL P. SHEA DIRECTOR OF OUTPATIENT SERVICES BROOK LANE HEALTH SERVICES The COVID-19 pandemic created many challenges for Brook Lane last year. One of the most pressing was developing the ability for our clinicians to see clients safely in the privacy of their own homes. Brook Lane successfully added Telemental Health services to allow us to continue seeing clients unable to come to our locations or those wanting to minimize their risk of exposure to the virus. Our school-based mental-health program, typically embedded within area schools, was the first to offer virtual services, as students were sent home from school and were no longer readily available to be seen. Through the desire to maintain ongoing sessions with students, Brook Lane's therapists worked closely with our information-technology department to create a system that allowed students and their families access to therapy sessions via electronic devices such as computers, tablets and phones. As an increasing number of people had to stay home, due to the closing of various businesses and rising infection rates, it became obvious that telehealth was a necessity to provide clients of all ages access to mental-health treatment in the safety of their homes. Our psychiatrists, nurse practitioners and therapists have the ability to provide telehealth services. Patients can be assessed by a medication provider or a therapist and establish a treatment plan without leaving home. Counseling and

ongoing medication management are provided, as well. We email new clients the initial paperwork prior to their first sessions, and requests for medication are sent electronically to pharmacies. Brook Lane is providing more than 50% of its services to clients virtually and has discovered some positive benefits: It saves time for clients and families because they do not have to build in travel time to and from appointments; it saves clients gas money, especially those traveling longer distances for an appointment; it has reduced the number of cancellations and “no shows” for appointments, since clients do not need to find child care and do not have to leave home when they are not feeling well. Telehealth has kept clients and staff healthier by limiting the amount of people crossing paths in our waiting rooms and hallways. Telehealth services tend to be more comfortable for participants because patients and providers don’t have to wear masks or safety shields in a virtual appointment. Research shows the benefits of telehealth are similar to sessions offered face-to-face for most clients. To access Brook Lane’s telehealth services, call our admissions/intake office at 301-733-0330 and request outpatient telehealth services. Our staff will connect you with the right provider.

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Michael P. Shea, Ed.D., LCSW-C, is the director of outpatient services for Brook Lane, where he provides oversight and leadership to therapists at outpatient locations. He is a frequent consultant and mental-health speaker for numerous faith-based organizations.

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Even during pandemic, program ensures NO PATIENT DIES ALONE

WELL+BEING Written by LAUREN LAROCCA Ensuring that no patient dies alone has become even more important for Meritus Medical Center during the COVID-19 pandemic, as people are not permitted to visit patients on-site who have been diagnosed with the virus. In January 2020, the hospital implemented the NODA program, which stands for No One Dies Alone, enlisting a group of trained volunteers to be on call to sit bedside with patients in their final hours. The program was put on hold in March 2020, due to the pandemic, and resumed in October, only to go on hiatus again in November. Many of the volunteers are retirees who fall into the“high-risk”category for the coronavirus due to their age, said Jessica Casey, director of volunteer services at Meritus. The hospital did not want to put them at unnecessary risk by continuing the NODA program, and is basing the decision on the number of patients with COVID-19 currently in the hospital, which, as of February, was steadily dropping, making it likely that volunteers will return soon. In the meantime, the hospital retains its commitment that no patient dies alone. Nurses and other available employees step in to be with patients as they pass away. “Before I worked here, I was the program director for respite care with an emergency homeless shelter,” Casey said.“I saw a lot of people die alone, in not the best circumstances.

Photography by Colleen McGrath

At the very least, you’re in a hospital here and have a bed to pass away in, but you can still be alone in that space. Someone’s there when you’re born, and someone should be there when you’re passing on. I think it’s really important to have someone there, to pass away with dignity.” Angela Palle, one of Meritus’ chaplains who trains NODA volunteers, concurs. She has provided end-of-life services for many patients at the hospital. She said that especially during the pandemic, when visitors aren’t permitted to be with patients, the hospital staff is like family to them. “It’s hard to transition from this life to the next, so doing that with someone holding your hand is so important. People need that. We are social beings,” Palle said.“It tells them, no matter the circumstances, you matter. No matter what, you’re still loved. It brings so much peace to know you meant something. Your life mattered.”

— Places

This story originally was published in Thrive: A Guide to Your Health and Wellness.

NEED FOR VOLUNTEERS Despite the program being on hold, there is a need for additional volunteers, especially young people who aren't at high risk for COVID-19 complications. For more information, contact the volunteer services office at the hospital, 301-790-8143.

Connecting Patients and Families Safely During COVID On an average day, Lisa Seifarth arrives at Meritus Medical Center to work as a nurse on the cardiac rehabilitation unit. Today isn’t an average day. These stopped for Lisa Nov. 13, 2020, when the unit temporarily closed due to increasing COVID-19 cases in the community. Today, instead of working in the cardiac rehab unit, Lisa is heading into a patient’s room as a companion for virtual visits and more – a position the hospital created so patients could stay socially connected during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Hi. My name is Lisa, and I’m your companion for your virtual visit,” Lisa says, as she greets a patient who is recovering from a stroke. The patient, who can no longer speak clearly, wants to see his family. Lisa pulls out an iPad and launches a Zoom video call. Within seconds, five of the patient’s family members are on the screen, waving and talking to their loved one. To keep patients, family members and staff safe during the pandemic, Meritus Health modified and restricted its visitor policy in November 2020. As a result, most patients cannot have visitors during their hospital stay. “We recognize that even during a pandemic, patient visits with family and friends are a vital part of the healing process,” said Melanie Heuston, chief nursing and patient care services officer. “Companions helping with virtual connections provide patients with friendly, social

COMPANION CARE BY THE NUMBERS

Number of Companion Care Staff

350

Approximate Number of Companion Care Patient Visits per week

120

Number of Companion Care Virtual Visits Facilitated with Families of Patients per month

180

Number of Hours Worked by Companion Care Staff per month visits and a way to stay connected to their family and close friends.” Lisa is one of five companions in the medical center dedicated to this new role. For six hours each day, they visit up to 75 patients. Along with facilitating Zoom calls, they help patients during meal times and provide them with everything from crossword puzzles and word searches to colored pencils and cell phone chargers. “Some patients accept the activities and that’s all they need,” says Maurisa Barnes, the unit clerk

Meritus Medical Center

for cardiac rehab who like Lisa, is now working as a companion. Others want companions to sit with them in silence or pray. Most just want someone to talk to. “Sometimes we talk about their animals, their grandchildren and how some of them are really sad that they won’t get to see their new great-grandchildren because of COVID,” Maurisa says. “It’s been a rough year (2020) for everybody.” Companion Debra Saunders, also a cardiac rehab nurse, recalls one patient who was frustrated at being in the hospital. “Every time I would visit, she would say she’s ‘bored’ and ‘disgusted,’” Debra recalls. “Still, I kept going back, trying to be helpful to her so she knew that in her boredom, somebody is here who cares.” Little by little, the patient warmed to Debra. “I’ve even seen her smile,” Debra says. “If I can get a smile or create some spark … if there’s any way at all that I can make them laugh, I try to do that. If they can find something to tap into, a feeling of joy or happiness, it’s helpful for them.” Appreciation for the visits is seen not only with the patients, but among the nurses and support staff throughout the hospital. “It truly helps out the nursing staff that someone can sit and be with patients for companionship, talking, activities,” says Melanie. “Just a steady presence during a vulnerable time can make such a difference for everyone.”

11116 Medical Campus Road • Hagerstown, MD 21742 301-790-8000 • Meritushealth.com

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Have

DIABETES? How to reduce your long-term risk of cardiovascular disease Written by DR. CHAD LARSON CYREX LABORATORIES

Cardiovascular diseases affect the heart and blood vessels and include stroke, coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure, and other poor heart and vascular health outcomes. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, with one person dying every 36 seconds. Since metabolic health is directly related to cardiovascular health, changes in metabolic health can positively or negatively impact heart health. Because of this, individuals with diabetes who are striving to manage

their metabolic health or who suffer from blood sugar dysregulation are a group that is particularly prone to cardiovascular disease. A recent study was published that found women with diabetes between ages 45 and 65 years have a 10-fold increased risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) compared to those of similar age without diabetes. It’s unclear at this point why women are more affected, but one thing is clear: It’s vital that diabetics, women particularly, do as much as possible to monitor their metabolic health to reduce the long-term risk of cardiovascular disease.

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67 Why are diabetics particularly at risk? It all starts with the ability to monitor and manage blood sugar and increased susceptibility to metabolic syndrome. Blood sugar dysregulation is at the core of metabolic health and can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) which is associated with abdominal fat and can lead to non-alcoholic fatty pancreas disease (NAFPD). NAFPD is associated with diabetes, arterial hypertension and metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is generally agreed to be diagnosed by having at least three of these five criteria: elevated blood pressure, elevated triglycerides, elevated blood sugar, low HDL-cholesterol and a waist circumference greater than 40 inches in men and 35 inches in women. Another risk factor that is being explored is insulin resistance; however, that has yet to be conclusively linked. One thing is clear, though: Metabolic syndrome doubles the risk for cardiovascular disease over five to 10 years.

How to reduce your long-term risk

that can lead to metabolic syndrome, we can then meet these challenges head-on with proper prevention tactics, including proper diet, regular physical activity and proactive monitoring. By taking control of their blood sugar, activity levels and consulting with physicians to stay on top of health monitoring, diabetics can significantly increase their chances of having strong cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Lowering risk and understanding connections

Dr. Chad Larson, adviser and consultant for Cyrex Laboratories, is a Certified Clinical Nutritionist and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist.

One of the first steps in lowering the risk for longterm cardiovascular disease is understanding the connection between it and metabolic health. This is particularly important for individuals with diabetes who are at an increased risk of blood sugar dysregulation and metabolic syndrome. By first recognizing that blood sugar dysregulation plays a large role in diseases

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One of the best ways to reduce the long-term risk of cardiovascular disease and poor metabolic health is to adopt a healthful diet and a more active lifestyle. While we’ve all heard this before, it’s good to be reminded that the American Heart Association recommends 2.5 hours of “moderate-intensity” aerobic activity per week. That means 30 minutes for five of the seven days a week. Not only will this help with metabolic health, but it also provides a plethora of physical and mental health benefits. For some, it’s been hard to keep up any level of physical activity during the pandemic. Gyms are closed or open at a restricted level, and while trying to avoid close contact with people outside our households, many are choosing to stay at home. It is, however, advisable to try to incorporate some sort of physical activity, as sitting in your home 24/7 is a sure way to increase your chances of poor metabolic health. Even if you simply go for a walk around your neighborhood or try some of the at-home workouts you can find online, any physical activity is beneficial. Another way to monitor metabolic health and reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease is to stay on top of regular doctor visits and health screenings.

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This story originally was published in Thrive: A Guide to Your Health and Wellness.

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Include pets in your home renovation plans written by JENNIFER DOLAN DOCTOR OF VETERINARY MEDICINE CUMBERLAND VALLEY VETERINARY CLINIC Are you planning home renovations this spring? Do you have pets? Why not include some pet-friendly renovations in your plans? There are many innovative ideas that are aesthetically pleasing for your home décor and beneficial to your pets. Utility rooms can serve double duty as a pet spa. Installing a raised tub with hot and cold spigots will make washing your dog a cinch. A ramp to the tub will make your life even easier. Have nonslip waterproof flooring installed. A central drainage area is a plus; it is convenient to use a squeegee to remove excess water from the baths to the drain and be done with all the mess. What a convenient way to avoid muddy pawprints and smelly fur in the house. If you are a multidog household or you foster dogs, consider converting a space into a dog suite. Install “bedrooms” for several dogs. Separate enclosures can have full doors, half doors or Dutch doors (the top door can be closed or open to be either type of door) to suit your needs. The bedrooms can open up to a common social area, complete with beds and play areas. Use easy-to-clean flooring and surfaces, and, if possible, a drainage system. Utilize any extra, unused space you have for a pet-specific area. It can be utilized as a dog bedroom or cat play area. Neutral colors and dog- or cat-themed décor can easily blend into the rest of the household. How about a doggy nook under a staircase? Or a doggy bedroom that includes beds, food and water stations, and a toy station with baskets to contain toys. A cat area could include feline condos or even an indoor jungle. Create holes, bridges, stairways, ramps and scratching posts. Use scratch-resistant and easy-to-clean materials. Does your dog love to go in and out all day long? If you have a fenced-in yard, doggy doors are a great addition. If you are creative, you can hide a doggy door behind a cabinet door, which allows you to control accessibility to the doggy door. If you do not have a fenced-in yard, there are many invisible fence options, the use of which involves a specialized

collar and some training so your dog knows the boundaries. Be aware that invisible fences work for most, but not all, dogs and they do not prevent animals from coming onto your property. How about considering a “catio” – a screened-in area for your cat to enjoy sunshine and fresh air? They can range from a small screened-in area to an entire screened-in outdoor cat jungle. Consider your pets’ needs if you are planning renovations. They will appreciate the special attention.

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Organizers find ways to continue programs by scaling back or going virtual Photo courtesy of Tree Trekkers

Written by MEG H. PARTINGTON COVID-19 put a damper on camps in 2020, but the spirit of exploration was not doused. In the Tri-State area, many organizers found ways to continue their summer programs by either scaling back or moving them to the virtual world. With vaccines available now and the spread of the coronavirus seeming to slow, camp staffers across the Tri-State are optimistically planning fun, enriching activities so youths can recapture the magic of summer. Here’s a sample of the possibilities that await.

SUMMER CAMPS While Maryland’s COVID-safety requirements did not require face masks at the time, they were used during rehearsals, but not performances. The performances that capped the end of the camps were not in front of live audiences, but streamed live on social media. Soto is hoping that this summer, the young actors and actresses who take part in ACT camps can share their culminating shows with people sitting

in front of them in the same room. The art camp that is typically held at Doub’s Woods Park in partnership with Washington County Parks & Recreation will take place indoors and outdoors at the ACT site on Florida Avenue in Hagerstown for those in grades one to eight. A performing-arts camp for grades one to 12 will be at the ACT facility and will conclude with a variety show, Soto said.

No stopping the show Creative thinking and the ability to quickly adjust to curveballs allowed Authentic Community Theatre Inc. to hold its summer camps in 2020. “It was a little bit difficult and a little bit different than we’re used to,” said Britney Soto, office administrator and treasurer of ACT’s board of directors.

Children perform “Alice in Wonderland” during Authentic Community Theatre’s ACT 2 Week Intensive camp in 2020. Submitted photo

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72 A two-week camp held in partnership with The Maryland Theatre for grades one to 12 will be divided between ACT and the theater. The finale will be a full production of “Frozen Jr.” Children will be kept in small groups during the camps, and safety protocols that have allowed ACT to offer three semesters of classes and put on three productions during the pandemic will continue, Soto said. The organization had no outbreaks of COVID-19, she said, and used livestreaming when necessary so audiences could still see the fruits of the organization’s theatrical labor. Plastic masks that allow actors’ mouths to be seen will be used if face coverings are required by the state. Soto said they are contoured to actors’ faces and look more like goggles than masks. Supports that keep the devices slightly away from the mouth for better projection might also be utilized. “We’re super confident in our process and how we handle things,” Soto said.“We follow everything that the health department tells us” in terms of practices required to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

ation coordinator for the JCPRC. They created individual packs of arts and crafts supplies for campers to limit the sharing of germs and prevent counselors from having to disinfect such small items throughout the day. Tents were set up outside, where children’s temperatures were taken daily upon arrival.

In Jefferson County (W.Va.) Parks & Recreation Commission's Escape This ... Camp, campers work on puzzles, which when correctly solved allow them to receive a key to unlock the next clue. Submitted photos

Last summer, state and local COVID-prevention guidelines meant none of the camps could be held on school properties like they had been in the past, so indoor space for activities was greatly reduced, Burgos said. But ongoing partnerships with River Riders in Harpers Ferry, W.Va., and The New Hopewell Center for the Arts in Kearneysville, W.Va., provided off-site options. “That actually helped a lot,” she said. The Jefferson County Community Center in Sam Michaels Park was still available in Shenandoah Junction, W.Va., but it could only be used for a limited number of activities due to spacing requirements dictated by the coronavirus, Kling said. Sports camps in particular were greatly reduced. “People were so unfamiliar with the mask thing,” Kling said, so many of the sports camps were canceled. Burgos added that parks and recreation commission staffers were not sure if people would be willing to wear masks during exercise and they also wanted to maximize the space between campers.

Creative use of the great outdoors/indoors With short notice that camps could be held in the Mountain State in 2020, the Jefferson County (W.Va.) Parks & Recreation Commission quickly finalized all of its plans so campers could put their bodies and imaginations in motion. “We literally had a week and a half to get the ball rolling,” said David Kling, assistant director of the JCPRC. The staff was ready with personal protective equipment, loads of hand sanitizer, and electrostatic sprayers to disinfect areas like bathrooms and playground equipment, sometimes multiple times a day, said Heather Burgos, recre-

As part of Jefferson County (W.Va.) Parks & Recreation Commission Farm Camp, campers hold a mock farmers’ market to learn the business side of farming.

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During Adventure Camp with Mr. Earl, Jefferson County (W.Va.) Parks & Recreation Commission campers took a field trip to James Hite Park in Kearneysville, W.Va., to fish and roast hot dogs. The most interesting “catch” of the day was this frog. Submitted photo

When more indoor programs were held in autumn, JCPRC staff noted that a lot of people wore masks by choice. As cases of the coronavirus began to rise in Jefferson County, those in the recreational programs who were 3 and older were required to wear them, Burgos said. Even the younger children handled that necessity well, which gave the staff a lot of confidence about how things will work this summer if similar mandates are in place, she added. Day camps in 2020 included archery, gymnastics and adventure options, plus ones for those in early elementary school with themes such as “Frozen” and animals, Burgos said. Most of the art camps were virtual. While camps for this summer were still in the planning stages in mid-January, Burgos said the hope was to bring back more preschool programs, the number of which were reduced last year in order to put safety first. Kling said more activities will be held in the community center, especially sports camps, if state and county guidelines allow. About 90% of the activities were held outside last year out of necessity, he added. Mercersburg Academy campers take to the water during an Adventure Camp activity. Submitted photo

“I think we’re pretty much expecting the same guidelines to be in place this year,” Burgos said, including mask wearing indoors, distancing, additional safety training for staff, and daily health screenings of campers and counselors. The JCPRC is hoping to hold some camps the first week of June, right after schools close for summer break, then expand the number of offerings through early August, Burgos said. New Hopewell Center for the Arts will be home to circus- and farmthemed camps, as well as a fantasy camp, where things like wizards and fairies will be explored, she said. It is anticipated that the Amp, a performance venue at Sam Michaels Park, can be used more this year, too. “We strive to offer experiences for lots of different interests,”Burgos said.“It is really all about being creative with space on the administrative part, and creative with activities on the camp staff part. We have some fantastic camp staff.”

Worst- to best-case scenarios Just as it plans multiple activities, Mercersburg (Pa.) Academy has several strategies in place for summer camps. Peter Kallin, director of summer and external programs, said the academy has

a four-tiered plan that outlines worstcase (no camps) to best-case (all camps held without restrictions) scenarios. Optimistic that camps can be held in person, he said the academy will follow health and safety procedures used when boarding students returned in the fall of 2020, which will be modified to meet updated guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or state of Pennsylvania, if necessary. “We’ll continue to have excessive sanitization practices,” said Kallin, who was hired by Mercersburg Academy in August 2020 and also serves as the head varsity boys soccer coach. Participants will be asked to quarantine for seven to 10 days before they attend a camp and take a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) coronavirus test three to five days before arriving, Kallin said. There is talk of possibly testing campers for the virus the day they get on-site, he added, and students’ health will be monitored daily. Masks and hand sanitizer will be part of the welcome packet given to the boys and girls ages 8 to 17 who register to attend. The goal is to “keep things safe and fun at the same time,” said Kallin, adding that camp staffers will wear masks if state mandates require them to do so.

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Mercersburg (Pa.) Academy STEAM Camp participants work on a project together. Submitted photo

The co-educational summer programs have day and overnight options for the young people who come from all over the globe to play basketball, soccer or lacrosse; dive into swim clinics or adventure camps; or explore STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math), writing or the performing arts. Typically, more than 1,000 kids gather at the Cumberland Valley campus between June and August to enjoy programs that Kallin said feature traditional camp activities such as playing capture the flag and sitting around campfires. Myriad outdoor activities are scheduled, for which masks will not be required when safe distances can be maintained. The children and teens will wear masks when inside, but hopefully will not be mandated by state and federal regulations to sport them outside, Kallin said. Tents and tables will be set up outside for grab-and-go lunches if they are not allowed to eat indoors. Kallin said about three-quarters of the camps are residential, while the rest are day camps. Residential participants will be kept in cohorts of 20 to 30 based

on their camp topic. They will wear masks while in the dorms, but won’t have to when they are in their two-person rooms. Kallin said 15-minute evening wash-up sessions will be done by room instead of in large groups. Knowing the situation is fluid, the academy is going to be flexible in terms of refunds if camps are canceled due to COVID restrictions or if a family decides not to send a child at the last minute due to health concerns. Kallin said all COVID-19 guidelines are subject to change, based on CDC and state regulations at the time the camps start. “We’ve tried to be very sensitive, knowing where the world is (right now),” Kallin said.“We’re trying to make it as flexible as possible. I don’t want people to have that worry in their mind” about not getting their money back.

Lofty spaces When you’re in the treetops, it’s easy to keep your distance from others. Because only one camper uses one obstacle at a time, Tree Trekkers Frederick LLC was able to conduct summer programs in 2020 with 20 children per session over four sessions, said

Ashley Schweinhart, site and marketing manager for the facility at 9560 Old National Pike in Frederick, Md. Four, four-day camps are scheduled at the outdoor aerial challenge and zip line park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. between June 22 and Aug. 20. Participants will be grouped by age – 7 to 10 years old; 10 to 13; and 13 to 15. Themes such as adventure, nature and STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) will be reflected in the activities the children do when they are on land and high off the ground, Schweinhart said. Measures taken last year to keep children and staff safe will continue, including having everyone wear masks; assigning every camper his/her own gloves for climbing; and using all-natural disinfectant and ultraviolet light on surfaces and equipment to kill germs, she said. “We were trying to get creative” so the camps could be held last summer, Schweinhart said. Social distancing was tricky last year during group activities because the children were so excited to be with their peers and often just wanted to play together. “They’re starved for it,” she said.

Children play the parachute game during a Tree Trekkers camp. Submitted photo

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75 Engaging the mind and body

A camper sails through the woods on a Tree Trekkers zipline. Submitted photo

This year, games will be more structured to allow that vital interaction while ensuring at least 6 feet are kept between the campers, she said. Participants will start with a group exercise, then be taught how to properly use and care for their harnesses and other equipment, Schweinhart said. They will practice what they have learned until they are ready to climb. Like last year, children can have food or drink at any time they need it in the picnic area, where a“den mother” will have activities prepared for them. Among the pursuits being considered are identifying leaves; making bird feeders; concocting homemade ice cream; parachuting activities; and doing scavenger hunts on the obstacle courses. The fun and adrenaline-pumping options are not limited to summertime on the seven-acre portion of the 30-acre expanse that Tree Trekkers occupies. Schweinhart said after-school climbing clubs and field trips are available during the school year.

After a school year dominated by virtual learning, Penn State Mont Alto is striving to offer in-person enriching activities for youths, but only if it’s wise to do so. “Safety is absolutely, unequivocally No. 1,” said Helen McGarry, director of continuing education at PSMA. The pandemic led to the cancellation of summer camps at the local campus in 2020, which makes it more vital that they be offered this year, either in person, virtually or a mix of both, she said. McGarry said PSMA is motivated to offer something educational, engaging and valuable to prevent the learning loss that can easily happen when school is not in session and to provide fun activities that are crucial to kids’ well-being. In June and July, PSMA typically offers academically oriented camps catered to those entering their freshman year of high school through rising juniors in high school. For those wanting to explore careers in science and health care, MedCamp is expected to be a combination of its typical hands-on format and virtual.

“We are planning to move forward with some kind of modified MedCamp,” McGarry said. Consideration is being given to holding it for fewer than the usual five days and making the camp hours shorter, while also lowering the number of participants per group on campus. Gone will be the traditional field trips to places like Chambersburg (Pa.) Hospital, Shenandoah University in Winchester, Va., and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, McGarry said. “If it’s not absolutely necessary, we won’t do it,” she said. Instead, it is hoped that Zoom presentations will be provided by representatives from the places the students would have visited, followed by debriefing sessions with PSMA staff and small breakout groups, McGarry said. “It’s a homegrown program that you can’t get prepackaged,” so MedCamp is difficult to re-create completely virtually, she said. For the portions that will not be online, 6-foot distances will be maintained between people, masks will be worn and the use of hand sanitizer will be a constant, she noted.

Soccer camp at Penn State Mont Alto is popular with many children. Submitted photo

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76 In contrast, STEM and Teen Entrepreneur camps will be completely virtual, and organizers are working diligently to make them engaging and entertaining. There is talk of having online breakout groups so campers can work on projects together, while incorporating plenty of respite from computer screens. “The golden rule is as little lecture as possible and as much interaction as possible,” McGarry said. One idea for the STEM camp is to provide kits for hands-on exploration of fields such as engineering, chemistry, DNA profiling, physics and microbiology. There also are many online resources such as code-building software that McGarry said will allow students to create something they can show each other. The entrepreneur camp is intended to build problem-solving, communication, critical thinking and teamwork skills to boost high-schoolers’ skills and confidence, according to the PSMA website. For children ages 4 through 12th grade who want to challenge their bodies as well as their minds, several in-person sports camps are being planned for June, July and early August. “Everything is still very much in the air,” Frank Maira, assistant director of athletics at Penn State Mont Alto, said when interviewed in early February. While dealing with a pandemic that seems to evolve daily makes planning difficult, there was one thing about which Maira was certain. “There’s going to be so much Zoom fatigue,” he said. In the works are a women's basketball camp for girls in grades nine to 12, during which cagers can build their skills and PSMA coaches can see the area talent pool in action. Another recruiting tool and foundation-building option is Nittany Lion volleyball skills

Children learn skills at the Penn State Mont Alto volleyball camp. Submitted photo

Penn State Mont Alto’s MedCamp is popular with students interested in healthcare careers. Submitted photo

camp for girls in grades seven to 12. If COVID numbers decrease enough to allow the in-person sports activities to be held, there are hopes to offer a co-ed soccer camp for ages 7 to 12 and 13 to 18. Staff from the men’s soccer program will work with players to bring their games to the next level, said Maira, who also is the sports information director at Penn State Mont Alto. Also on the roster is a kiddie soccer camp for ages 4 to 7. The three days of activities include teaching parents basic drills they can do at home with their children, Maira said. If PSMA is allowed to have them, the sports offerings will be limited to 15

children per session, and they will be masked and socially distant while they are playing and participating in drills. “I think kids are pretty much used to it,” Maira said of the safety protocols.

Where the wild things are There is plenty of room to spread out while expanding knowledge of all things nature-related. Thanks to plentiful acreage at its two preserves, the Potomac Valley Audubon Society was able to offer camps last summer, albeit to smaller numbers of children. Amy Moore, lead teacher and naturalist, as well as Audubon Discovery Camp director for the PVAS,

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LEARN MORE For more information about the programs mentioned here, go to: Authentic Community Theatre Inc.: actforall.org | info@actforall.org 301-491-7228 Potomac Valley Audubon Society campers enjoy exploring nature. The society offers camps at its two preserves, Yankauer Nature Preserve in Martinsburg, W.Va., and Cool Spring Nature Preserve in Charles Town, W.Va. This year, 20 campers will be allowed per session at each location, where they will learn about water, animals, plants and their senses. Submitted photo

said in-person camps in 2020 were

“making sure we’re doing the best

available to 10 campers per session at

we can do to prevent the spread (of

each site rather than the typical 30.

COVID-19),” she said.

Except when they used the re-

This year, 20 campers will be allowed

strooms, the participants were out-

per session at each location, where they

doors all the time at Yankauer Nature

will learn about water, animals, plants

Preserve in Martinsburg, W.Va., and

and their senses. They also can make

Cool Spring Nature Preserve in Charles

art using only nature’s craft supplies

Town, W.Va. They were taught to wipe

and learn how to survive in the wilder-

down the bathrooms after each use,

ness. Most of the camps are for children

and each day had their temperatures

entering first through sixth grades, such

checked and were asked a series of

as “Muck Monsters,”during which stu-

questions about their potential expo-

dents can get “really dirty and wet, and

sure to the coronavirus, she said.

really have fun”while tromping through

Children did not wear masks last summer, but they did in autumn

the mud and streams, Moore said. There are some options for older

during PVAS’ outdoor school and they

kids, too, such as “Stream Investigators”

will this summer.

at Cool Spring for middle-schoolers

“The kids are really good about

who want to probe the waters of Bull

Jefferson County Parks & Recreation Commission: jcprc.org | info@jcprc.org 304-728-3207 Mercersburg Academy: mercersburg.edu summerprograms@mercersburg.edu 717-328-6225 Penn State Mont Alto: montalto.psu.edu/ce ceclassinfo@ma.psu.edu 717-749-4117 For Mont Alto sport camp/clinic offerings, please contact Assistant Director of Athletics Frank Maira at fzm26@psu.edu or 717-749-6173 Potomac Valley Audubon Society: potomacaudubon.org 681-252-1387 amy@potomacaudubon.org Tree Trekkers Frederick LLC: treetrekkersmd.com info@treetrekkersmd.com 301-888-TREK

keeping themselves accountable,”

Skin Run and Muskrat Pond for aquatic

Moore said, explaining that they

critters and conduct water-quality tests.

reminded each other to put on their

There also is a counselor-in-training

“People were so grateful for their

masks and kept plenty of space be-

program for middle and high school

kids to have some social, structured

tween themselves.

students, through which they can

activities,” Moore said.“This is some

become assistant counselors. Moore

sense of normalcy for their children.”

They took “mask breaks,” during which they stayed farther away from

said lead counselors must be at least 18

each other, but Moore noted that

years old.

some kids opted to leave their masks on their faces.

After being cooped up and sepa-

PVAS also understands if parents get nervous at the last minute about sending their kids to camp.

rated from their friends from March

“We’re really flexible about cancel-

until early summer last year, Moore

lations and refunds,” Moore said.“We

tablished by the Centers for Disease

said families welcomed the chance to

want people to be responsible and feel

Control and Prevention, staffers are

explore outdoors.

comfortable.”

By following the guidelines es-

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SUMMER CAMPS GETTY IMAGES

Come back to summer camp written by SAMMY BALDWIN, REFERENCE LIBRARIAN WASHINGTON COUNTY FREE LIBRARY For many of us, some of our best memories are from summer camp. So it’s no surprise that a common theme in books is returning to the camp of your childhood to find yourself. Washington County Free Library has some great books that tell that story. Check them out today!

One S’more Summer

by Beth Merlin This is the first entry in the Campfire Series that takes place at Camp Chinooka. If you love chick-lit and romance, this is the perfect summer camp romance novel for you. Our heroine, Gigi, escaped back to Camp Chinooka after losing her high-profile

The Hearts of Men

design job and learning that her best friends are finally getting married, despite her feelings for the husband-tobe. At camp, she is faced with scheming teenagers and a boys’ head counselor that you’ll hate to love.

Proof of Forever

by Lexa Hillyer Welcome again to Camp Okahatchee. Joy, Tali, Luce and Zoe are all reliving the best summer of their lives, thanks to a mysterious time-traveling photo booth that sent them back to their final summer at camp. At its heart, this is a story of friendship, but it also is a tale of self-discovery as the four friends try to re-create a summer past. Can you truly be the same person you were years ago?

by Nickolas Butler Butler’s novel is split in three sections: 1962, 1996 and 2019. In 1962, we meet Nelson, a 13-year-old Boy Scout who is an overachiever in all of his merits. Unfortunately, he has no friends. But that changes in the summer, when he meets Jonathan, who might as well be his polar opposite. From Jonathan, Nelson learns loyalty, bravery and trust. Flash forward to 1996, and Nelson is now the Scoutmaster at Camp Chippewa after serving in Vietnam. His son, Trevor, is now a Boy Scout, too, and he is just as good as his father used to be. In 2019, Nelson is about to retire from being a Scoutmaster, but not before Jonathan’s family comes to camp for a week, and a troubling incident occurs. Nelson, Jonathan and the readers must consider what it means to be “a good man” in this emotional novel.

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SUMMER CAMPS

Clockwise from top left: Authentic Community Theatre’s ACT Performing Arts Academy featured an "I love the ‘90s" theme in 2020. A camper participates in a Tree Trekkers' activity. Campers show the hair scrunchies they created during Jefferson County (W.Va.) Parks & Recreation Commission's As Seen on Pinterest Camp. Campers stretch and warm up prior to gymnastics skills practice at Jefferson County (W.Va.) Parks & Recreation Commission's Gymnastics Camp. Submitted photos

Summer camp is the antidote to pandemic living for kids

Since March 2020, kids have been living an increasingly bizarre, unnatural life of screens and quarantines, hybrid schooling (if they’re lucky), and enough fear and disappointment to last them into adulthood. However, in the midst of the insanity, summer camp can become a beacon of hope, a lifeline towing them back to their normal selves, according to the American Camp Association. For example, over 1,000 children and 250 staff attended Liberty Lake Day Camp in Bordentown, N.J., in the summer of 2020. While strict safety guidelines and a modified program were necessary, the fundamental essence of camp remained intact: Kids, playing together, being outdoors and mentored by caring staff. According to campers, parents and staff at camps that ran last summer, it was by far their most meaningful camp experience they’d had, as well as an impactful life event.

Camps have been forced to make some changes during the COVID era, but as Andy Pitkin, owner/director for Liberty Lake, libertylakedaycamp.com, points out: “Good camps breed creative adaptability and get things done. We always have. How do you get a group of thirdgrade boys to listen? What do we do about the incoming storm? The bus is running late. Animals got into the supplies. There’s no electricity in the kitchen. Camp people don’t complain. We figure it out and make it happen. Last summer, we were able to facilitate 99% of what we normally do at camp, including lunches, bussing, instructional swimming and assemblies. Were they a little different than usual? Sure, but all were accomplished with smiles and appreciation.”

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FA M I LY

Make your child’s room a mini-museum exhibit written by BRITTANY WEDD EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DISCOVERY STATION AT HAGERSTOWN INC. It's fair to say that between the pandemic and the series of snowstorms that hit our region this winter, we've all been cooped up and staring at the same old walls a little too much. Now is the perfect time to add unique touches to your home, and if you have children, this column is for you! One of my favorite aspects of my Discovery Station work is designing and installing new exhibits for children to enjoy. We create exhibit spaces where children can fully immerse themselves in little worlds while they learn. When we first updated our dinosaur exhibit to make visitors feel like they were walking into a Jurassic jungle, I remember thinking how easy it would be to turn a child's bedroom into a small dinosaur world just by painting the walls green and hanging fake vegetation. Between Pinterest and Youtube tutorials, nothing is out of reach for at-home improvements. So consider this spring to be a chance to turn your child's bedroom into a mini-museum by following these simple tips. Whether museum or bedroom, it's crucial to focus on a theme. For Discovery Station, our hands-on exhibit themes come from our mission of promoting STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) learning. When considering a new bedroom design, plan for it to flow around your child's interests. My friend's son was enamored with

When Heather Holman’s son fell in love with a geometric print, she decorated a climbing wall in his bedroom with the print. Submitted photos

a particular geometric print of Mickey Mouse. When she redid his bedroom, she painted a similar geometric pattern on one of its walls. The accent wall allowed for the Mickey Mouse print to come alive for her son and for his play to be immersive. Just keep in mind that a child's interests vary with age, so be prepared to "rotate out" designs for the mini-museum bedroom. An exhibit is only an exhibit if it promotes learning and engagement. When designing the room, think about potential decorative elements and how they can help your child develop. Another friend of mine has a daughter, Sophia, who is obsessed with outer space. Her mother painted constellations on the walls surrounding her bed. That simple addition to the room provided Sophia with opportunities to learn about stars and how people used them to navigate the oceans before GPS was invented, all from the comfort of her bed. Costumes go a long way. Dramatic play is an important component of learning, and one we fully embrace when planning new exhibits. Whether your child is a budding pilot, astronaut or deep-sea diver, you can make or acquire costumes and accessories so he/she can truly get immersed in the theme. Costumes also can double as pajamas, and that’s a win-win when it comes time for kids to stop playing and go to bed.

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82 Add a slide. The best children's museum exhibits are ones that keep children active – mentally and physically. A slide not only encourages movement, but will encourage your child to get out of bed in the morning. If the room's theme is a jungle, add a blue slide so the child can pretend to be an explorer who has gone over the edge of a waterfall. Keep in mind that children need space to play. Through play, children discover the world around them and develop knowledge about language, math, science, engineering and the creative arts in meaningful ways. The more space you leave for them to engage in play, the more they'll learn. Use themed storage items to help keep toys off floors in between moments of downtime. For instance, is your child a pirate fiend but reluctant to tidy toys? Make a treasure chest fit for a buccaneer to hoard the booty as part of the game. After all, what self-respecting pirate would leave treasures for others to steal? One mini-museum is great, but a whole building of them is even better. Visit Discovery Station and let our exhibits inspire your planning.

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Lizzie Dattilio painted constellations on the wall for her budding astronaut daughter, Sophia.

The Discovery Station's Reading Room can be replicated in the corner of a child's bedroom with cushions, bean bag chairs and décor. Adding a slide to a child’s bedroom not only encourages movement but also will encourage the child to get out of bed in the morning.

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Conococheague Institute features crops grown in the 18th century OUT AND ABOUT A volunteer's harvest. Photo by Ellen Kinzer

written by MATTHEW WEDD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CONOCOCHEAGUE INSTITUTE MERCERSBURG, PA. It was a long winter, and the desire to be outside has never been greater. At the Conococheague Institute (CI), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Franklin County Pa., the season included a lot of exhibits and program development, but also a lot of snow shoveling. People came throughout the coldest months to walk along our snowy nature trails in search of birds and to attend our colonial programs in the visitor center on weekends, but everyone is definitely looking forward to being outside more in warmer weather.

Spring is exciting for an outdoor living-history center like CI. As families search for areas to explore, our 30 acres provide incredible discoveries. Whether it’s a chance to dress in historic clothing or see a great blue heron in flight for the first time, there are always new experiences. With spring and better weather, our entire range of educational programs – Colonial Life, Medicine and Surgery, Games, Women’s Roles, A Slave’s Story, Military Enlistment and more – are on tap. Learn more about the programs by contacting CI or going to cimlg.org.

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Above: Saxon and Tati find the fruit of the wild. Below: Zach admires nature's growth. Photos by Brittany Wedd

Groups are booking now to use CI as part of their summer camps, and areas of the site are available to rent for parties. While it's still difficult to plan large events in advance, consider CI for your summer activities. Back to the now, one of the best things about spring is that it brings nature to life. Outside the frontier cabin, CI maintains a substantial colonial garden. This year, it will be planted with crops and produce that were grown in the 18th century. While root vegetables, such as turnips, parsnips and carrots, are the most common, there are plenty of greens, such as lettuce, chard and cabbage. We have plantings that can be pickled – cucumbers, beetroot and radishes – as well as some unexpected plants. Peppers will be grown on one end of the garden. While not a significant part of Anglo-American recipes, peppers were cultivated by slaves for their own meals as part of their cultural heritage and to disguise the taste of the poorer food cuts they received. (The untold story of these slaves is part of a new school program being offered in 2021).

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The borders of the garden are planted extensively with kitchen and medicinal herbs, an everyday need for life on the frontier. Photo by Pat Todd

The borders of the garden are planted extensively with kitchen and medicinal herbs, an everyday need for life on the frontier. Smell the lavender for its relaxing powers or taste some mint to help relieve flatulence! We include many of the plants grown in our 18th-Century Medicine Program, but many of these remedies are still used today. From seedlings to the table, at CI you not only learn about how things were grown, but take a hand in it. Join the interpretive staff in planting, hoeing, weeding and gathering water from the well. When the crops are ready, assist in the harvesting and watch as delicious meals are made. A garden was an essential part of sustainable living and still is today. Whether you have a large garden to plant or just a windowsill for small greens and herbs, you should try some home growing. In addition to saving money by having fresh produce at home, the rewarding nature of growing something from seed to produce is indescribable.

Left: Fresh pickings from the CI garden. Photo by Matthew Wedd Above: Ellen Kinzer takes a break from weeding to smile at the camera. At Conococheague Institute, the garden produces more than the interpretative staff needs. Volunteers who help with the weeding and watering can also help with gathering and eating when the time comes. Photo by Bob Schwartz

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Nature's colors are on display in this head of purple cauliflower and its green leaves. Photo by Matthew Wedd

Rhubarb cut for pies. Photo by Pat Todd

CI is lucky that people in the past planted apple trees, pear trees and grapevines. Plant a seed at home, and you might have the makings for jams, pies, cider and wine right in your back garden. At CI, the garden produces far more than our interpretive staff could need, so we invite the community to share. If you help with weeding and watering, you also can help with gathering and eating when the time comes. We welcome you as part of our colonial community. It will be a while before everything is ready to harvest, of course, so while we wait, try this simple colonial recipe for baked apples from “Hannah Glasse’s The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Simple,” first published in 1747.

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Volunteer Kori Taber recently tested a baked apple recipe at Conococheague Institute. Photo by Matthew Wedd

Rose of Sharon. Photo by Matthew Wedd

This colonial recipe for baked apples is from “Hannah Glasse’s The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Simple,” first published in 1747.

Hannah often leaves out the details, so here is a modern version:

BAKED APPLES Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Wash apples and remove cores. Use a knife and spoon to scoop out centers. Don’t cut through the bottom of apples. Spoon brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves and lemon peel into the center hole of each apple. Put apples in a baking pan and pour ¾ cup hot water or red wine on the bottom of the pan. Bake for one hour. Apples are ready when a knife goes in smoothly.

“I thank God every day we found Commonwealth Senior Living” We are proud to hear quotes like this from families every day. Our mission is to improve the lives of seniors, their families, and each other. We are excited to offer awardwinning programs at our Memory Care community, including Sweet Memories™, Travel the World, Farm to Table Dining, and more.

Call to learn more and to request a free copy of this helpful guide: “10 Signs a Loved One May Need Memory Care” 301-686-5240

Commonwealth SENIOR LIVING at HAGERSTOWN

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Staying connected, learning, exercising are keys to aging well

FISHER

HURD

written by TIM FISHER AND SUSAN HURD WASHINGTON COUNTY COMMISSION ON AGING It is often said that knowledge is power, an assertion that grows in significance as we age. It’s impossible to recall what we haven’t learned, but as we get older, it becomes more difficult to remember what we do know. The challenges of aging are formidable, and even the nimblest body or mind succumbs to the trappings of passing time. The question isn’t,“How do we keep from aging?”The question lingers,“How do we age well?” Staying connected to others socially, engaging in learning opportunities and exercising are key to active and healthy aging. The great news is, in the middle of a pandemic, you can do all of these things without leaving your home. In most counties in the United States, you can find an area agency on aging and a senior center. They are invaluable partners and resources for personal growth in growing older. These agencies and centers cost little or nothing to members.

For Washington County residents ages 55 and older, the Washington County Commission on Aging and the county senior center are part of the same organization. In our community, the partnership has proven to be a life-changing and life-sustaining advantage to seniors, caregivers and those with disabilities. Are you or someone you know interested in becoming a senior center member? It’s easier than ever! Go to  wccoaging.org and follow the links for the senior center to complete an online registration form. Our free membership gives you access to a platform of programs and a robust lineup of virtual workshops to assist you in aging well. When you join, you’ll have the opportunity to make new friends, learn new skills, pursue a hobby or live a healthier life. Aging well starts with signing up. You can attend classes and discover a whole new social support system from the comfort and safety of your home. Become one of the thousands across Washington County who have joined the senior center and improved their lives.

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89 Here are just a few upcoming health classes: • Stepping On program (fall prevention) • Walking with Ease (helps encourage safe walking) • Living Well (chronic disease self-management) • Living Well with Hypertension • Living Well with Diabetes • Diabetes-prevention program Aging well means connecting well.

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Tim Fisher is director of development, and Susan Hurd is RSVP project manager, guardianship care manager and community educator, for Washington County Commission on Aging Inc./Area Agency on Aging.

FOR MORE INFORMATION visit your local area agency on aging’s website or Facebook page.   You also may go to the Washington County Commission on Aging’s Facebook page at facebook.com/WCCOAging  or website at wccoaging.org. You can also reach the Washington County Commission on Aging by calling 301-790-0275 or emailing info@wccoaging.org. Celebrating 40 years serving the community!

We care for the whole family. Providing Exceptional Family-Centered Care in our Community since 1980. Are you or someone you know interested in becoming a senior center member? Go to wccoaging.org and follow the links for the senior center to complete an online registration form. The free membership provides access to a platform of programs and a robust lineup of virtual workshops to assist you in aging well. Getty Images

THANK YOU for voting us best of the best

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LOCAL FLAVOR

Brewing the perfect cup of coffee COVID-19 pandemic sparks growth of ‘at-home’ baristas

The pour-over is a drip technique that has been commonly used in Europe since the 1900s. Hand-pouring hot water over filtered coffee grounds accentuates the flavors and aromas of the beans. Submitted photo

written by V. CRAIG CAMPBELL JR. SMALL-BATCH CRAFT COFFEE ROASTER, RIVER BOTTOM ROASTERS COVID-19 has given many people a chance to slow down and smell the beans. That extra 30 minutes not spent commuting has allowed them to take half that time to brew the most perfect cup. Sure, the Keurig is even in on this party. After all, disposable filters allow you to enjoy your own savory grounds. What’s the best way to brew those tasty beans? Brewing your coffee at home has never been easier. Here are the most popular methods of brewing, with some simple tips and tricks:

Drip coffee makers: Drip coffee makers range in price, size and features, and are regarded as the most popular way to brew coffee. WHEN USING A DRIP COFFEE MAKER: Always buy whole beans. At RBR, we offer fresh, whole beans for peak freshness. We recommend grinding at home

before each brew. A conical burr grinder, such as the Jura Capresso 560.04, is best. Inexpensive blade grinders give an inconsistent grind size and alter flavor extraction. Measuring is key! Adding too much coffee and not enough water can lead to a bitter pot; however, too much water and not enough coffee will give you a watered-down brew. The secret sauce: 1.5 tablespoons per 6 ounces of water or 1 gram of coffee to 16 grams of water. Turn it off. Removing your pot of coffee from the heat source ASAP is also key for premium taste. The goal is to prevent burning the coffee and giving it a bitter taste. Also, wash your pot after each brew to avoid a burnt taste.

Meet the French press. The French press, also called la cafetière (a coffee plunger), or a coffee press in different parts of the world, is one of the more elegant styles of brewing. THERE ARE THREE MAIN INGREDIENTS TO MAKING THE PERFECT CUP OF COFFEE VIA THE FRENCH PRESS: Freshness. Only use the freshest beans. Grinding. If you grind your beans right before you press, you will ensure the fullest flavors. The longer the grinds are in the air, the more they will lose their flavor. Make sure to use the coarse grind setting.

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92 Temperature. The water temperature should be hot, but not quite boiling. Fun fact! The French press was invented by accident around the late 1800s, when a Frenchman left the house for his daily walk and forgot to add coffee to his boiling pot of water. He poured in the grinds, stirred and waited, yet all the grinds floated to the surface. An Italian merchant passing by offered a metal screen and a stick to push the grinds down in the pot. The men threw out the grinds and drank the coffee. In amazement, they realized they just tasted the most delicious cup of coffee they'd ever had. RBR recommendation: Bali – Blue Moon Roast with hints of chocolate and vanilla and a creamy body

Single-cup coffee makers: Our love/hate relationship Are they cute? Yes, they are. Are they good for the planet? No, not really. But we can help change that. Keurig and Nespresso have reusable coffee filters that allow you to use your own coffee. RBR recommendation: Ethiopian Natural that brings a super aromatic cup and unique flavor.

Pour-over: More time, more flavor The pour-over is a drip technique that has been commonly used in Europe since the 1900s. Hand-pouring hot water over filtered coffee grounds accentuates the flavors and aromas of the beans. The process is more hands-on than drip coffee brewing because you’re controlling the coffee-extraction process. THE FOUR THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW: Cloth vs. paper filters. While paper filters provide less cleanup, cloth filters require more maintenance. However, they will not compromise taste and help reduce waste. Should the grinds be coarse or fine? All you need to remember is that coffee pots use regular grind and French presses use coarse grind. Pay attention! The pour-over method relies on timed pouring intervals and simple techniques to get a balanced flavor extraction. Sorry, no more Instagram while brewing. Blooming. Once you pour the 200-degree water in a circular motion for a few seconds over the grounds, they will begin to rise and “bloom.”That releases gases and the flavor inside the grounds.

Adding too much coffee and not enough water can lead to a bitter pot; however, too much water and not enough coffee will give you a watered-down brew. For best results, use 1.5 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water or 1 gram of coffee to 16 grams of water. Submitted photo

Caring for the beans The goal is to preserve and protect those delectable and intoxicating fresh beans for as long as possible. There are a lot of cute canisters and jars out there with fun sayings, but most of them will not keep your beans fresh. The flavor of the beans is compromised anytime light or air gets into the canister. Keep beans in a dark, cool location. RBR recommendation: The Airscape Canister is our favorite because of its patented technology to keep coffee airtight and fresh. Sustainability is key. RBR is committed to sustainability and protecting our planet. By brewing our own coffee and using reusable cups, we can do our part to lessen the overall “fast-coffee” footprint. Repurposing coffee grounds at home is a trend we can support. After all, new hobbies are another way to spend some fun time at home.

Three fun ways to repurpose coffee grounds Homemade fertilizer. Sprinkle coffee grounds around plants, or mix grounds and warm water in a spray bottle to make a fertilizer mist for your garden. DIY body scrub. Did you know that coffee grounds work as an exfoliator? By adding brown sugar, coconut oil and vanilla, you can create the most delicious-smelling scrub for the bath or shower that removes dead skin cells, making skin feel smooth and look brighter. Deodorize your fridge. To neutralize food odors, fill a jar with grounds and place it, uncovered, at the back of the fridge. No matter how you choose to brew your coffee, or use it around your home, we are excited to be there along the way.

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LOCAL FLAVOR

GETTY IMAGES

Beer, wine, spirits abloom in Washington County written by YVONNE FORD OWNER, RED HEIFER WINERY

Washington County is abloom with new and varied wineries, breweries and distilleries, and springtime offers a great opportunity to head out of the house and imbibe in your local offerings. Cushwa Brewing Co. in Williamsport, which opened in 2016, moved to a new location and underwent a significant transformation in 2020. Scott Coleman, co-owner, said the new location offers “more space for the taproom and production.” Coleman said the new “customer base is widely varied. The new space has brought in more families,” in part due to the inclusion of Rad Pies, which offers made-to-order pizza. In addition, Cushwa offers wine from Red Heifer Winery in Smithsburg and Big Cork Vineyards in Rohrersville. The addition of wine has made Cushwa more attractive to an increasing number of people. “We can make a variety of customers happy by adding on food and wine,” Coleman said. After visiting Cushwa Brewing, be sure to turn the corner and visit Homaide Brewing Co. Other breweries in Washington County include Antietam Brewery and Upper Stem Brewery. Upper Stem is Washington

County’s first farm brewery, growing and producing ingredients such as grains, hops, herbs and fruit used in its brew. For the first time, distilleries have made their way into Washington County, with several slated to open soon. Meinelschmidt Distillery in downtown Hagerstown and Pathfinder Farm in Keedysville anticipate opening their doors to the public this year. Most of Washington County’s wineries are located throughout beautiful farmland. For a relaxing afternoon at a vineyard, enjoy your choice of Antietam Creek Vineyards, Big Cork Vineyards, Cool Ridge Vineyard, Knob Hall Winery and Red Heifer Winery. Other wineries include Blue Mountain Wine Crafters and Stone House Urban Winery, each uniquely offering smalltown charm in Funkstown and Hagerstown, respectively. All locations offer outdoor seating, and many offer food and host live music. To highlight what the county has to offer, Washington County’s Agriculture Business Development Specialist Leslie Hart spearheaded a Pour Tour campaign featuring each beverage crafter. “The new Pour Tour brochure features the finest local wineries, breweries and distilleries,” Hart said.“These award-winning local businesses are open and ready to provide you with the highest-quality libations.” Be sure to enjoy responsibly and consider carry-off options to safely consume at home. For more information about the Pour Tour, go to: visithagerstown.com/files/pour-tour.pdf.

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Red Heifer Winery | 301-824-5210 | www.redheiferwinery.com

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Joshua Johnson:

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Portraitist of Early American Baltimore

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

written by SARAH J. HALL DIRECTOR OF THE WASHINGTON COUNTY MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS Opening April 17,“Joshua Johnson: Portraitist of Early American Baltimore” brings together more than 20 works of this important and enigmatic artist at the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts. Johnson (c. 1763–1830), often described as the first professional Black portraitist in America, is a fascinating figure, and this show, the first museum exhibition devoted to him since 1988, brings new research and fresh thinking to his life and work.

Joshua Johnson (American, ca. 1763–1824), The James McCormick Family, 1804–1805, oil on canvas, Maryland Center for History and Culture, Baltimore, gift of Dr. Thomas C. McCormick. Photography by Maryland Center for History and Culture

Putting together an exhibition is one of the most gratifying aspects of museum work, but it’s a marathon. The timeline for creating a loan exhibition, from thesis to object list, through loan negotiations to installation, can happen in as little time as 18 months, but more often, museums are working on them for two to five years (Most museums require about a year’s notice to approve a painting for loan.) The exhibition is built around two portraits in our collection, both dating to 1809 —“Portrait of Susanna Amos Yoe and Daughter Mary Elizabeth Yoe,”and“Portrait of Benjamin Franklin Yoe and Son Benjamin Franklin Yoe Jr.,”donated to the museum in 1994 by F. Sydney Cushwa, the great-grandson of Mary Elizabeth Yoe. The portraits, charming pieces of family history, also illuminate the commercial aspects of Johnson’s business. He specialized in portraits of families and children, and in the days before photography, it was not unusual for multiple portraits to be commissioned. In the case of the Yoes, a second version of each painting was made,

Spring

2021

Joshua Johnson, (American, ca. 1763–1824) Rebecca Myring Everette (Mrs. Thomas Everette and her Children) 1818, oil on canvas, Maryland Center for History and Culture, Baltimore, bequest of Miss Mary Augusta Clarke. Photography by Maryland Center for History and Culture

ensuring each child had a set of family portraits. The other pair descended with Benjamin Franklin Yoe Jr., and are now in the collection of the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Work on the exhibition began in earnest in mid-2018, when we started fundraising to help underwrite exhibitions costs. Costs for an exhibition include travel to examine paintings in other collections; conservation of artworks; building crates for safe transport of paintings; shipping; insurance; honoraria for speakers, teachers and catalog authors; catalog design and production; and the cost of installation itself — labels, signage, custom display needs and return shipping at the conclusion of a show. Grant applications require a narrative and budget explaining the goals and purpose of the prospective exhibition. A funding proposal for the exhibition was submitted to the Art Dealers’ Association of America Foundation, and by the fall of 2018, the museum obtained word that we received a grant of $15,000 to support the exhibition. It is,

however, unusual for a museum to receive a single grant large enough to cover all exhibition costs, and funders often want to see matching dollars from other sources, so the museum continued to raise funds. In tandem with fundraising, the curatorial team worked to refine the exhibition’s thesis and contents. It was decided that the exhibition would explore facets of Johnson’s life and work that hadn’t before been focused on extensively — one aspect being a deeper look at the racial milieu in Baltimore during his life and another being a closer reading of the paintings, exploring their symbolism and placing them in the context of European and regional painting. Research and site visits help curators develop what is called a checklist — the list of proposed works. It’s typical to start with a big wish list of works because not all lenders will be able to say “yes.” More grant writing was underway by early 2019, with a proposal submitted to the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), which included plans for an array of education-

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96 al programs for toddlers to adults, focusing on portraiture, social history, Black history, themes of overcoming personal challenges, and local connections to Johnson’s work and life. The museum received a coveted award from the NEA of $25,000 to support the exhibition. We also received Johnson-related support from the Community Foundation of Washington County MD Inc. and the Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area, as well as from museum members and private donors. Exhibitions are ephemeral — all that work and logistical orchestration for a time-dependent experience that typically lasts about three months. We’ve scheduled the Johnson exhibition for six months for that reason. Catalogs are an important way of documenting and preserving an exhibition. Typically, the catalog has more scholarly content than what can comfortably fit on a museum’s walls or be easily digested, and a good catalog will illustrate every piece in the show and provide additional comparison images. In February 2019, the catalog contents were outlined. David Taft Terry, Ph.D., assistant professor of history and museum studies at Morgan State University, and Mark Letzer, president and CEO of the Maryland Center for History and Culture, agreed to contribute essays

HM-941317-1

Joshua Johnson (American, ca. 1763–1824) Portrait of Susanna Amos and Elizabeth Yoe, 1809, oil on canvas, Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, gift of Sydney F. Cushwa, 1994. Photography by Edward Owen for Washington County Museum of Fine Arts

related to Johnson’s life and work. The catalog will also include an essay by the museum’s own Agnita M. Stine Schreiber Curator Daniel Fulco. Spring and summer 2019 were devoted to further research and site visits to communicate with lenders and secure agreements. Everything was on track for a fall 2020 opening when the COVID-19 lockdown hit last spring. For museums, there was an extended period of closure (for us, about four months) and many exhibitions fell apart because of museum closures. The team at Washington County Museum of Fine Arts quickly decided to reschedule the exhibition for spring 2021. I admit that all the above happened without me. I joined the museum in July 2020, just as the catalog essays were near completion. The delay in the opening of the show allowed me to become a small part of this exciting and timely exhibition. As I write this, we’re in the thick of the final preparations — organizing packing and transportation, planning the physical installation, and reviewing gallery labels and texts, as well as catalog proofs. I wish I could raise a glass with all of you to celebrate Joshua Johnson and the hard work of everyone involved, but alas, while it’s safe to visit the museum, it’s not yet safe for us to host parties. Instead, visit the museum to see the results of more than two years of work, and join us online for “Let’s Talk Art: New Perspectives on Joshua Johnson,” scheduled for 6 p.m. April 22 to hear from the catalog authors and help us mark the exhibition opening.

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Spring provides an opportunity to explore the beauty of the outdoors, such as this scene from Greenbrier State Park. Photo by Emmet Burke

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Spring provides hopeful pivot to beauty of outdoors written by MARY ANNE BURKE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, WASHINGTON COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL INC. In her poem “April Is a Dog’s Dream,” Marilyn Singer writes,“April is a dog’s dream, the soft grass is growing, the sweet breeze is blowing … so no excuses now, we’re going to the park … and I will make you see what spring is all about.” As the gray of winter slowly passes, our thoughts turn to all things spring, with a pivot to color, sunshine, gardening, planning for summer events and outdoor concerts. As we move through the pandemic confinement, hope reigns for all that will brighten our days this season. There is no better time to celebrate the beauty of our own surroundings. “With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic changing the way we live, work and play, more and more Marylanders are finding affordable, socially-distant and family-friendly

recreation opportunities at our parks and public lands,” said Lt. Governor Boyd K. Rutherford, as quoted on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website, dnr. maryland.gov.“In rain, snow and sun, I’ve yet to find a view to match Maryland’s natural lands.”

Helen Boyle, the artist who created "Singing Colors," offers a wish for viewers: "May your days be filled with rainbows and song.” Reproduced with permission from the Boyle family.

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98 In 2021, the C&O Canal celebrates its 50th anniversary of becoming a National Historical Park. The Maryland Office of Tourism is focusing on promoting the “C&O Canal experience” with multiple celebrations, both educational and recreational. There will be a brewery trail, juried photo contest and worldwide conference later in the summer, all to highlight the beauty of our own backyard. The trail hosts visitors each year who enjoy its recreational, cultural, historical and natural resources. Additionally, the winners of the C&O Canal 50th Photo Competition, highlighting the trail’s treasures, will be on display at the Washington County Arts Council galleries between May 6 and June 1. The exhibit will also be available virtually, with the opportunity for voting for the People’s Choice Award. The competitive exhibit, which was open to photographers at any level of expertise, is sponsored by Visit Hagerstown-Washington County Convention & Visitors Bureau, the C&O Canal Trust and the Washington County Arts Council. Moving to the outdoors in spring brings planning for gardens with attention to design, innovation, beauty and creativity. Art is seen everywhere in nature, and garden clubs that typically meet for garden activities are yearning for the return of in-person gatherings. Local clubs refocused by touring the Hagerstown Cultural Trail, sharing holiday home décor photos and holding virtual holiday gatherings. Information about local garden clubs is available through The Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland Inc., a 501(c)(3) whose motto is “Planting Maryland for Beauty and Wildlife.” Spring 2021 also will include celebrating the 100th anniversary of City Park with an extended outdoor City Park Summer Concert Series, sponsored by the City of Hagerstown and the Washington County Arts Council, and providing music for dancing and listening pleasure. This spring, the City of Hagerstown and the Washington County Arts Council encourage everyone to come outdoors and participate in the photography call for the second “Faces of Hagerstown” outdoor photo-mural exhibition celebrating the people of Hagerstown. Selected photos will line the Hagerstown Cultural Trail. Finally, this time of year is a reminder that registration has begun for many summer camps, which provide children varied experiences, new friends and skill-building options, along with educational, athletic and cultural development. The local offerings are expansive, focusing on art, dance, fashion, game development, languages, music, the outdoors, religion, Scouting, sports, STEM/STEAM, theater and more. See the arts council’s website for more information.

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The winners of the C&O Canal 50th Photo Competition, highlighting the trail’s treasures, will be on display at the Washington County Arts Council galleries between May 6 and June 1. The exhibit will also be available virtually, with the opportunity for voting for the People’s Choice Award.

Come outdoors and participate in the photography call for the second “Faces of Hagerstown” outdoor photo-mural exhibition celebrating the people of Hagerstown. Selected photos will line the Hagerstown Cultural Trail.

HELPFUL LINKS:

For more information about the programs mentioned here, go to: Summer Camps washingtoncountyarts.com/summercamps Summer Events washingtoncountyarts.com/summer-events Hagerstown Cultural Trail washingtoncountyarts.com/hct Juried photography celebrating the 50th anniversary of the C&O Canal National Historical Park washingtoncountyarts.com/canal-50 “Faces of Hagerstown” second outdoor photo mural exhibition washingtoncountyarts.com/hct-foh Calendar of Events washingtoncountyarts.com/events

COMMUNITY

LEADERS H IP WASHINGTON COUNTY

Our strong community, supported by leaders

HOW SCHOLARSHIPS MAKE A DIFFERENCE written by CHRISTINA WILLIAMS DIRECTOR OF GRADUATE ENGAGEMENT FOR LEADERSHIP WASHINGTON COUNTY Submitted photos Leadership Washington County awarded more than $117,000 in scholarship funds to 68 individuals since 2010. The recipients of these scholarships have been employees of nonprofits, small-business owners and employees, along with self-funded individuals and entrepreneurs. LWC strives to ensure that the program is accessible by reducing financial barriers, which also helps ensure that a variety of perspectives are represented in each class. We are grateful to have been granted funds from several foundations and organizations to aid with scholarship funding: Antietam Broadband, Class 30 Be Nice Scholarship, FirstEnergy Foundation, Judy Greenwald Fund, Hamilton Family Foundation and Women’s Giving Circle. At least half of the scholarships awarded have come from LWC directly. We are excited to highlight some of our scholarship recipients and their LWC experiences:

Jonathan Parrish, Class 34 – 2021 Executive director Maryland Symphony Orchestra “As a new resident and leader of a local nonprofit, I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to participate in Leadership Washington County’s Class 34. The experience has been really invaluable in terms of introducing me to so many organizations and other leaders in our community. I’m learning about the great work that is being done here and the work that needs to be done. As a nonprofit organization that relies on the support of the community and must plan our expenses very carefully, I and the MSO are very grateful for the scholarship assistance I’ve received. I know that I’m making relationships now that will benefit me and the orchestra well into the future. Thank you, Leadership Washington County!”

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100 Sarah Burge, Class 33 – 2020

Director, grants and donor relations Community Foundation of Washington County MD Inc. “I will forever be grateful for the opportunity I was given to be part of the Leadership Washington County program and a member of Class 33. Being part of LWC gave me the opportunity to grow not only as a professional, but also as a person. Because the Community Foundation works with so many nonprofits, people may not realize that we are also a nonprofit. Without a scholarship from LWC, it wouldn’t have been possible for me to participate in such a wonderful experience.”

relationship-building and a view of our community I hadn’t experienced before. I really can’t speak highly enough of Leadership Washington County. I am so thankful to have participated and will continue to stay connected.”

Mary Teal Medina, Class 31 – 2018

Legislative aide to Sen. Paul Corderman “I vividly remember attending State Government Day in Annapolis with my fellow Class 31 members. I was simply blown away by what I learned that day and it truly made me grateful for the opportunity I had to be in this program. Without the financial assistance I received through the Small Business Scholarship, I would not have been able to be a part of the class. I want to thank the LWC board of directors, businesses in our community and LWC graduates who have paved the way through the scholarship program for others to participate.”

Terri Gwizdala, Class 30 – 2017

Kelly Kline, Class 32 – 2019

Realtor, RE/MAX Achievers “I considered participating in Leadership for a few years before I had the guts to step outside of my comfort zone and submit my application. As a RE/MAX Achievers real estate agent, I am self-employed, so the out-of-pocket cost of the program was concerning. The scholarship program made LWC affordable. I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect of the program, but it exceeded anything I could have imagined. I have lived in Washington County my entire life and really had no idea what our county has to offer. The retreat was definitely a highlight of the experience, and the program provides - and encourages - multiple opportunities to get to know your classmates. When I returned from the weekend, I was already looking forward to the first program day. The program days are informative, interesting and incredibly wellorganized. My concerns over so many type A’s on one bus quickly vanished as each month allowed for more

“At the time I applied to Leadership Washington County, I was working for an organization that had an operating budget of under $75,000. While we recognized the importance of the LWC program, the tuition was just not something we could include in our budget. I was a member of LWC’s Class 30 due in large part to the scholarship support I received from Antietam Broadband. I will be forever grateful for their generosity, as it allowed me to participate in one of the most meaningful programs I have ever attended. Being a part of Leadership Washington County gave me a better understanding of the benefits and challenges of living and working in Washington County, expanded my professional network and led to friendships that continue to this day.”

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Maria Rubeling, Class 29 – 2016 Executive director, YMCA of Hagerstown

“I was hesitant about getting involved with LWC so early at the start of my new position at the Hagerstown Y. My original plan was to wait a year or two and then join, but after chatting with Tara (Sargent, LWC’s executive director) and some LWC alums, I started in the class just seven months into my first year as CEO at the Y. The scholarship funding that was provided to me was a huge help also since our organization at the time did not have the funds available to help me attend. The decision to join Class 29 was one of the best I have made since my tenure at the Hagerstown Y. It was the best and most effective way for me to make important community connections and learn about all that is going on right here in Washington County. The program is excellent and so wellorganized that it could not have been any easier to get engaged and to meet people. A huge ‘thank you’ to Tara and her team for making my experience extra special.”

Kelsey Lorman, Class 28 – 2015

Social media strategist and community manager Lindsey Elmore “I rely on and am grateful for my Leadership Washington County experience, both personally and professionally, every day. During my time in the program, I worked for a nonprofit organization, and was lucky enough to have received a scholarship to participate. This allowed me to be an active member of Class 28, which provided

me with invaluable knowledge to bring back to my organization. I was also able to connect classmates who were looking to serve with my nonprofit organization, as well as provide a unique perspective to those who may not have ever interacted with my organization before. I believe the nonprofit scholarships introduce the capacity for a variety of voices at the table from all areas of Washington County, making for meaningful discussions and the building of beneficial relationships for all of those involved. Nonprofit organizations work hard to raise funds to be appropriately placed back into the community, which is why scholarships are so vital to Leadership Washington County. The scholarship I received led to valuable connections for myself and my organization, benefiting it in ways including, but also far beyond, monetary value.”

Wallace Lee, Class 27 - 2014 Development director Washington County Museum of Fine Arts

“As a recipient of a nonprofit scholarship to attend Leadership Washington County, Class 27, I’m grateful and humble for those who could provide the resources to participate, as many nonprofits usually can’t afford to budget for staff to attend various professionaldevelopment opportunities. Leadership Washington County was a tremendous personal experience, allowing me to extend and develop new relationships to support and promote the Museum of Fine Arts.”

To learn more about Leadership Washington County, the application process and upcoming events, go to leadershipwashingtoncounty.org Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @leadershipwc

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(LICENSED & INSURED IN MD, PA, VA, WV) OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE!

Chris Dickerson 301-992-8467 Carol McNamee 240-520-2900 Office: 301-745-4400 OR VISIT www.homesinhagerstown.com

                                                 

       

                                                                                  

at home

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104

SELLING THE TRI-STATE AREA FOR 30 YEARS! Licensed in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia The market is HOT

Inventory is low…demand is high…call me to get your house SOLD! I look forward to assisting you with all your real estate needs. Providing friendly, professional service since 1990!

LAUREL WALKER

OFFICE: 301-745-4400 17339 Virginia Ave. Hagerstown, MD 21740

301-667-8673

lwalker@glockergroup.com

JASON HOSE, GRI Serving Maryland, Pennsylvania & West Virginia

Cell: 301-491-2625 Ofﬁce: 1-800-727-7653 ext. 229 www.JasonHose.com

1830 Dual Highway, Hagerstown, MD, 21740

Build Your

Dream Home On Your Lot

You choose the lot...we’ll do the rest! Free Site Analysis Free Cost Estimates Cash Advances For Lot Purchase

9 STEPS To Your Dream Home 1.

2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Meet Our Design Consultants - Receive Personal Attention to Every Detail of Your New Home Free Home-Site Evaluation - Our Engineer Evaluates Your Lot for Every Detail Your Own New Home Blueprints - In-House Drafting Team, Reviewed & Approved by You Assist with Financing - Great Home Mortgage Lenders & Construction Financing We Secure All Permits - Contact All Permitting Agencies for You Pre-Drywall Orientation - See Plumbing/HVAC/Electrical Layout before Drywalling Strict Quality Control Inspections & Local Building Inspections New Home Orientation - Demonstrate New Features & Benefits of Your New Home Move In Your New Home - “Make Sense” Settlement

MHBR #586 301-797-0000 www.oliverhomes.com

IT’S TIME TO SELL!! Lowest inventory since 1994 and lowest interest rates for buyers. We have an abundance of buyers and low inventory.

CALL CYNTHIA TODAY FOR A FREE MARKET ANALYSIS

Cynthia Moler Sullivan, Assoc. Broker, ABR, GRI Top 10 Real Estate Agents In Maryland 2015-2020 As Published By American Institute of Real Estate Professionals

301-988-5115

cynthia@sullivanselectllc.com

13201 FOUNTAIN HEAD RD, HAGERSTOWN MD One of Hagerstown’s finest properties is now available. Stately colonial with one of the largest and most private lots in Fountainhead. Solid fieldstone construction with over 13,705 sq ft of living space, this 7 bedroom, 6 bath, 5 half bath mansion with a five car garage has every bell and whistle imaginable including a tennis/pickle ball court. Master kitchen opens to a private covered porch with state of the art outdoor kitchen. Quality is abundant throughout including a sprinkler system with its own dedicated well, back up power generator, and 2 additional kitchens. This is a rare opportunity MDWA173756 $949,900

11729 ANTHONY HWY, WAYNESBORO PA

6740 SAINT ANNES DR, FAYETTEVILLE PA Perfection awaits! This home is an architectural Master piece! Large Timber Frame home overlooking the Golf Course, Penn National! Built with superior building material and energy savings in mind.Thanks to the solar array, the monthly electric cost is LESS than $20 a month! Save $ on energy costs & taxes! You will enjoy luxury living, and fantastic views, in this one of a kind, resort style home! PAFL171586 $684,000

1149 THE TERRACE, HAGERSTOWN MD This magnificent home boasts nearly 6000 square feet of living space with 7 bedrooms, 5 full and 2 half baths. Kitchen includes handcrafted custom cabinetry with silent self closing drawers, state of the art cooking with four oven AGA cast iron (red) range with warmer and hot plates that will last a lifetime, Subzero refrigerator and Kitchen Aide dishwasher are intergraded with the cabinetry, exotic granite countertops. Exterior amenities include flagstone flooring, invisible pet fence, central alarm system, automatic spotlight, slate style shingle roof (2001), luxury balconies overlooking the grounds and Koi pond as well as an attached oversized 2 car heated garage. This home meticulously entwines the past with the present. This home will not last, make it yours! MDWA177770 $669,900

14261 CEARFOSS PIKE, HAGERSTOWN MD Commercially zoned garage on 3.64 acres. Could be very versatile for any business. Was previously a big truck garage. Reason for selling is the owner is retiring. MDWA177988 $375,000

524 VIRGINIA AVE, HAGERSTOWN MD Two unit colonial overlooking City Park! Great investment opportunity! First floor unit has one bedroom, 1 bath. Second floor unit has two bedrooms, one bath. Storage/Garage in rear. Private parking, paved driveway. Featuring original hardwood floors, high ceilings, bay windows and a large inviting porch! First Floor unit is renting for $775, upper unit rents for $650. Tenants pay their electric. Water/sewer/trash is included in rent. Also includes a Building Lot (tax ID 2203027309- .17 acre) for your additional investment property. Great location with a beautiful view of the City Park Pond! MDWA176630 $219,900

800-802 W. FRANKLIN ST, HAGERSTOWN MD Great investment opportunity, zoned commercial, large duplex with 2 three bedroom units. Large side lot with off street parking in the back. Two units each rented for $750 a month. MDWA164746 $158,000

COOL HOLLOW RD, HAGERSTOWN MD Beautiful land property with opportunity to build your dream house with a view to take your breath away or to keep as farm land. Close to Beaver Creek area and route 70 & 40. MDWA175872 $380,000

Cool Hollow Rd, Hagerstown MD Beautiful rolling land property with opportunity to build your dream house or to keep as farm land. Currently being leased for crops. Great location, close to Beaver Creek area and route 40 & 70. MDWA175874 $425,000

GARIS SHOP RD, HAGERSTOWN MD 2.80 acre lots adjoins Antietam Creek! Enjoy fishing, canoeing, kayaking and tenting here! Fresh air and wildlife abound on this premium lot! Great location- Five minutes from I-70, shopping and many other conveniences. Make Offer! Property has not been able to be perked. MD 1001629964 $38,500

LEITERS MILL RD, HAGERSTOWN MD Build your dream home here! Fantastic lot on 1.42 acres with an approved well and perc test! Additional lot available! Pending final plat approval. MDWA167284 $120,000

20100 MARBLE QUARRY RD, KEEDYSVILLE MD Motivated seller! Bring offers! MDWA163724 $219,900

13229 Paradise Church Rd, Hagerstown MD Excellent lot on Paradise Church Road-1.84 acres ready for you to build! MD1000070415 $99,000

2012 LONDONTOWNE DR, HAGERSTOWN MD Nice building lot in established neighborhood, conveniently located minutes from Route 70 & 40. MDWA177168 $50,000

Zoned Commercial! Newly renovated, impressive, 6,000+ sq. ft. showroom barn with three levels, a large parking lot and 4 sheds with electric! New Plumbing & Electric, Top of the line Kitchen, Wet bar and 3 Baths all custom designed to impress! One level could be used as an apartment! Room to expand on this .45 acre lot, with the option to possibly purchase an adjoining 1/2 acre. Property is currently used as a thriving retail/home decor/ vintage business, with over 70 vendors and 10k followers on Facebook! Voted the “Best of the Best Gift Shop!” Business sold separately- or could be a package deal- Contact listing agent for more details. One of a kind opportunity- Great location! PAFL100077 $449,900

Sullivan Select Team: Dylan Bradley (MD), Christina Sherman (MD ), Cynthia Moler Sullivan, Associate Broker (MD & PA), Paul C. Sullivan, Broker (MD & PA), Tim Rotz (MD), Janet Thompson (MD & PA), Susan Creel (MD & PA), Mary Beth Herrera (MD & PA), Michael Blake (MD, PA), Leesa Arnold (MD & PA), Stephanie Stamper (MD & PA), Tracey Rotz (MD, PA & WV). Lyndsay Nave (MD, PA), Brayan Seidl (MD), Lucas Vespa Moreira (MD), Krista Caudle (MD), Denise Shepherd (MD), Jennifer Blake (MD, PA, WV)

The Spring Market is HOT

....so Hop to it and Contact me Today…Let’s Get Moving!

These Folks didn’t delay and found their dream homes…

You Can be Next!

Nancy@NancyAllenTeam.com • 240-389-4663

Nancy S. Allen “Nancy has been the BEST to work with! She goes above and beyond for her clients. She was always willing to show me houses anytime that fit my schedule. When it… came time to close she was just as happy for me as I was to get the house. Thank you so much for making this process a great experience” -Tara

The Nancy Allen Team, we’ve got you covered in the Tri-State area! Licensed in MD, PA and WV.

“Nancy Allen had our property sold within days after being listed. And we sold our property for the price we wanted. Nancy is quick to respond, professional, and… “knows her stuff ”. I wish I could give her six stars, but the rating service only has five. Thank You, Nancy”- Laurie and Gary “Nancy is the best there is! She takes her time, makes sure the house is a fit and is always on the buyers side no matter what the case may be! We will be using her… in the future for sure! 10 out of 10!!!” - Marshall Office: 301-695-3020 Direct to Nancy: 240-389-4663 www.TheNancyAllenTeam.com Nancy@NancyAllenTeam.com Real Estate Teams, LLC 617 W. Patrick St. Frederick, MD 21701 Broker: Roland Castle

“Nancy Allen is an incredible blessing to our family. We had a very small window of time to find a home as we were moving from a different state for a new job. Renting an apartment with our dogs and three kids really wasn’t what we wanted, so we were believing for a miracle to find the right house. We had one Monday morning to view houses before leaving, and that morning a house came up that looked great and Nancy was able to get us in to view it that day. We made an offer and it was ACCEPTED!! I know our situation is unique but I am so grateful we had a responsive realtor that kept our needs as a high priority. Even while we waited through the escrow process, there was a moment I remember calling her with questions & some apprehension about our decision; call it cold feet, if you will. She listened and didn’t respond with extra pressure or by adding stress even though so much work had gone into the process. Her concern was for our emotional health and the wellbeing of our family. Thank you, Nancy, for being such an incredible gift to our family.” - Shawn and Nancy

604 Summit Avenue, Hagerstown CT

A TR

13317 Ruby Pointe Drive, Hagerstown

$375K

13138 John Martin Drive, Williamsport

$419,900

D OL

A TR

71 Jared Court, Hedgesville

$215K

650 Northern Avenue, Hagerstown

$259,900

ERACT D UNNTR CO

L SO

9 Redwood Circle, Hagerstown

$230K

1943 Fieldstone Way, Frederick

of Realtors- 2nd Vice Molly King Pen-Mar Association President Associate Broker

Be the King of Your Castle!

$180K

Graduate, Realtor Institute REO Department

2018 Realtor of the Year, Pen-Mar Association of Realtors Licensed in MD, PA & WV

$349,900

301-745-1689 Ofﬁce 301-331-0006 Cell/Text

Suzanne Glocker Eddie Jefferson

Susan Peterson

Jim Ward

Carol McNamee Chris Dickerson

Laurel Walker

Amy Stenger

Bruce Cubbage

Cyndi Wright

Jared Dickerson

Mary Lee Kendle Scott Huffman

Ashley Billman

OPENING DOORS Now Over 30 Years!

Call Today 301-745-4400 • Online at glockergroup.com

SOLD

The sign you want! The agents you need! Get ready for the spring market now!

REAL ESTATE TODAY

Nearly 40 years experience.

No one knows the market like we do!

Cathy Wantz 28 years experience Licensed in MD

Call Us Today! 301-791-9046 View all our fine properties at

www.realestatetoday.pro

Toby Wantz, GRI 13 years experience Licensed in MD and PA

THE ANTICIPATION

THE DRIVE

THE VIEW

THE DESTINATION COMING APRIL 2021!

Custom designed and built, this cedar and eldorado stone mountain-style retreat sits on 10 partially wooded acres. Desirable East location on Cool Hollow Road only minutes from I-70. Easy commute to Frederick and the Metro Area. Perfect set-up for a virtual office! FEATURES: Open floor plan concept with cathedral ceiling accented with reclaimed wood beams and 2-story stone fireplace. Floor to ceiling windows showcases picturesque view. Spacious living room, dining area, and kitchen welcome family and friends for casual entertaining. Master bedroom suite, 1/2 bath, and laundry on 1st floor. French door opens to a covered porch off the master suite to an inviting hot tub with view of mountains. 2 bedrooms and a full bath up with room for 4th over the garage. The kitchen features custom cherry cabinets, granite countertops, island ,& 2- sinks. All quality appliances included. On warm summer days, you will ‘ LIVE ‘ in the spacious outdoor room with cathedral ceiling and stone fireplace. Full walk-out lower level with full bath, pool table, and large screen wall TV for MARCH MADNESS or the latest movie viewing. Cost-saving Geo-Thermo heat and CAC. Central vac. Not to be missed is the professionally landscaped yard which blends naturally into the wooded setting. Makes a perfect sanctuary for local wildlife and many species of birds. Fruit trees. Several outbuildings. PEACEFUL! QUIET! PRIVATE!

OFERED AT $1,177,000.

DILIGENTLY SERVING OUR CLIENTS FOR OVER 38 YEARS!

ALAN

CHARLIE

ROGER

ERIC

RYAN

OBY

TAMMY

PATTI

THERESA

RODNEY

TYLER

Online at www.rogerfairbournrealestate.com Call today 301-733-4183 •TrailTown Ofﬁce (Hancock) 240-998-1221

r home I will get you ers Market! SOLD!! Sell r a FREE Call Today fo lysis! Market Ana

COMING SOON Broker 301-745-1500

Joan McLernon – Licensed in

Spacious Duplex in Westﬁelds! 3 Bedrm, 3.5 Baths, 2200+ ﬁn sq ft! Coming this Summer!

301-452-2605 MD & PA jmclernon@cbimove.com YourColdwellBanker.com UNDER CONTRACT

17000 Bivens Ln Hagerstown MD 2.25ac lot $69,900!

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½ ac Lots in Pine Hill at White Tail! Clear Spring MD $79,900

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415 Brunswick St, Brunswick MD $232,500 4 br 1 bath

D L O

594 Meadow Mtn Dr, McConnellsburg PA $80,000 2 br 1 bath 4+ac! UNDER CONTRACT in 4 Days!

3443 Rohrersville Rd, Rohrersville, MD 3 Br 2.5 bath $424,900 12+ac!

½ ac Lots in Pine Hill at White Tail! Clear Spring MD

$79,900

I will help you find YOUR way HOME!

Stunning Potomac Riverfront Manor Home

“I GO TO NATURE TO BE SOOTHED AND HEALED, AND TO HAVE MY SENSES PUT IN ORDER.” NATURALIST JOHN BURROUGHS

“BELVEDERE ON THE POTOMAC” FALLING WATERS, WV Historic Potomac Waterfront Home Circa 1790 A fabulous 180 degree view of the Potomac River will greet you every time you look out the window or step on the lovely front deck of this manor type home. Water frontage is 180 feet, there is a boat ramp. The home is fully renovated; fully furnished. Move in turn key ready. Sited on 2.3 private acres on a hillside above the river. It looks across the river and is buffered by Federal Land, the C&O Canal. Peaceful old colonade of hugh trees at one end of the property. The home is open and elegant with second ﬂoor balconies from two of the 3/4 bedrooms. There are two kitchens, the main kitchen is huge with all top drawer stainless steel appliances, lots of granite counters and eating island. The second kitchen/LR combo when combined with two upstairs rooms and baths could be used as a guest suite. Three ﬁreplaces complement the interior. Detached workshop could be artists studio or “SANITY SHED”. Easy access to I-81, close to I-81 I-70 WVBE178832 $975,000 interchange, near Martinsburg MARC Commuter train Rare opportunity.

CAROLYN SNYDER, BROKER Licensed in WV, VA & PA m: 304.283.1537’ o: 304.267.1050 cmspb1@aol.com SnyderBailey.com

VIEW TOUR: www.SnyderBailey.com SNYDER BAILY & ASSOCIATION The Best People, The Best Properties For Over 30+ Years

Crossings on the Potomac GATED BOATING COMMUNITY • HEDGESVILLE WV DEEP WATER POTOMAC RIVER

Dramatic Beautiful 5000 + Sq. Ft.

Lindal Cedar Home on 6.5 Acres including a winding bubbly stream HIGH-SPEED INTERNET work from home. This privately sited topof-the-line home on a hill at the foot of a cul-de-sac is peaceful and beautiful. The house features great architecture and cedar construction, lovely views, most including the stream, wonderful sunsets, from the huge prow windows, and spacious rooms with vaulted wood ceilings. 1 Master suite on the main level with two more Masters on the lower level. Serious gourmet kitchen. High-end appliances Special features, solar on the grid, exotic hardwood flooring, 3 fireplaces, 1 wood burning, and 2 gas, large covered and wrap-around decks, hot tub, central stereo in all rooms, ceramic and tile baths, E-automobile charging station in the attached garage. Community boat slips. Beautiful landscaping and natural setting. Immaculate well maintained home. Private yet convenient location. EZ access to I-81 and I-70.20 min to Hagerstown, Md. 10 min to I-81 Exit 20, Close to MARC commuter train to DC from Martinsburg. WVBE183740 $750,000 SEE VIDEO TOUR

Carolyn Snyder, Broker

GUIDING YOU TO THE PLACE YOU CAN’T WAIT TO GET BACK TO..

1850 Dual Hwy. Hagerstown, MD 21740 301-745-1500 462 Prospect Blvd. Frederick, MD 21701 301-662-8600 35 E. Baltimore St. Greencastle, PA 17225 717-593-0970 ©2020 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the CB & Star logo are trademarks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each ofﬁce is independently owned and operated.

At Home Places Spring 2021

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