At Home Places, Spring 2023

By Andrea Rose

remember when my grandmother was preparing to move to a nursing home and we gathered at her house with her for a walk-thru to determine what she might want to keep. She had lived there for 50 years and every room, closet, basement and attic were full of memories—and "stuff." She was overwhelmed.

As we moved through the house with her, attempting to help her narrow her focus to the things she might actually need, the more overwhelmed we became. A month later, when she was settled into her new community with some of her furniture and necessities, we returned to the house to go through what was left behind—nearly five decades of items furniture, clothing, paperwork, kitchenware and cans of expired food that she had forgotten she bought.

We stood there in the peachcolored, knotty-pine kitchen where we had shared so many family meals and wondered where to begin. My cousin suggested a can of gasoline and a match. It wasn't that gram's things didn't hold value. We just simply didn't have the energy to properly handle things and she didn't have the heart to part with them. It's a story heard often at Gateway Gallery Auction.

When the time comes to downsize or relocate, Gateway Gallery can help guide you through the transition or if you are overseeing an estate, we work side-by-side with attorneys, trust officers and

643 Kriner Road Chambersburg, PA 17202

717 -263 - 6512

info@gatewayaucton.com

administrators to ensure proper handling of estates and trusts. "We meet with you to understand your needs and concerns and to give you some idea of what you can expect your items to bring at auction," said Heather Kohler, auctioneer/appraiser and president of Gateway Gallery Auction. "We develop a plan to help you accomplish your goals, whether it's to liquidate just a few items, a collection or an entire estate. We tailor our services to meet your individual needs."

Established in 1991 by John and Kay Kohler, Gateway Gallery

is a family company that puts honesty, integrity and caring into their service.

"Our auction service focuses on product knowledge, showroom atmosphere, careful handling and state-of-the art technology. This multi-faceted approach makes our services unique," Heather said. "We have found that proper presentation and exposure are key elements in achieving the best results for our clients."

Gateway Gallery auctioneers are licensed and bonded and auctions are held in-person and online at the 10,000-square-foot climate-controlled facility. Located on the I-81 corridor in southcentral Pennsylvania, Gateway Gallery typically runs 45 live, inhouse auctions a year comprised of estates and downsizes, as well as specialty collections such as model trains, toys, coins, sports cards, firearms, real estate and more. "When you choose Gateway Gallery to liquidate your items, we take care of all the little hassles for you," Heather said. "You don't have to do it alone. Let us help."

A HERALD-MAIL MEDIA PUBLICATION

Volume 10, Issue 3

ISSUE EDITOR

Glenn Garvie

DESIGN EDITOR/LAYOUT

Kathryn Biek

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jacob W. Barr, Tara Bockstanz, Mary Ann Burke, V. Craig Campbell Jr., Teresa Coda, Tim Fisher, Linda Harkcom, Susan Hurd, Paulette Lee, Sandie Lynch, Sarah Nadeau, Joseph Ritacco, Crystal Schelle, Matthew Wedd

COPY EDITING

Joseph Ritacco

ADVERTISING DESIGN

Gannett Creative Solutions

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Dawn Friedman

ADVERTISING SALES

Denise Bender, Daniel Gray, Michelle Horton, Zach Pitsenbarger

© 2023 Herald-Mail Media

AT HOME PLACES is published five times a year, featuring Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn and Holiday issues. Complimentary copies are available at area distribution sites. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BY COPYRIGHT. Prices, specials and descriptions are accurate as of the time of publishing. This magazine or parts thereof may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the editor. 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, contact your Herald-Mail Media sales representative, hmadvertisingstaff@localiq.com

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ON THE COVER:

This red stagecoach is a regular participant in the James Shaull Wagon Train, making its way along National Pike at Spickler Road as a part of the annual National Pike Festival. The event commemorates the National Pike, which connected Baltimore and Cumberland and became part of the National Road when it was constructed in the early 19th century.

32 Local nurseries are ready for your spring plantings

35 River Bottom Roasters and Free Range Cafe join forces

MANAGE YOUR MONEY

36 Spring is the time to review your fnancial goals AT THE LIBRARY

37

How your library can help you bloom this spring

HOME DESIGN

38 Enjoying the great outdoors includes your own backyard

TRAVEL

44 Touring the Gardens of Maryland

SENIOR LIVING

48 New SeniorFit building coming soon to WCCA

49 Summer camp for seniors

WELL + BEING

50 How Mindfulness can help improve your mental health

52 The secret to losing more weight on any diet

COMMUNITY

54 Summer camps at the Conococheague Institute

58 Leadership Washington County is back with events

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

60 Spring exhibitions come to Washington County Museum of Fine Arts

62 Washington County Arts Council is ready for summer

PHOTO BY DAVE RHODES, HERALD-MAIL

The Area’s Best Selection of Polish

FROM THE EDITOR

Spring is here and the weather is warming up. Time to enjoy some time “Out & About” as the theme of this issue says.

Inside, we literally hit the trails, presenting some fun and fanciful round-ups of excursions near and far, for both couples and families.

For the wine lover, you can sip your way along the Antietam Highlands Wine Trail, featuring four stops in Washington and Frederick counties.

For something a little stronger, try the American Whiskey Trail, which locally means the Whiskey Rebellion Trail, stretching from Pennsylvania through Maryland, and running as far as Washington, D.C. Along the way you’ll discover some recipes dating back 275 years.

Not all the trails, though, require being over age 21. The charming Washington County Pottery Trail features artisans who create new designs using one of the oldest techniques.

And finally, the wagon trains are headed west – to western Maryland, at least, – as the annual Washington County National Pike Festival returns with its caravan of horses, wagons, buggies and surreys, traveling at its leisurely pace down the streets of Clear Spring, and meandering over to Funkstown and more.

The flipside of traveling is just staying home, and spring is welcome time to do just that. Backyards and plantings can become a full-time passion, and certainly are for some of our featured subjects. Check out the special features which create a stay-at-home oasis for some area homes, courtesy of Kingdom Landscaping.

If you prefer the do-it-yourself approach to beautifying the outdoors, there are plenty of options for plantings, either at your own home, or at one of several shared spaces within community gardens.

Spring has sprung, so hoping you get out there and enjoy.

Glenn Garvie Issue Editor

EXPLORE ALTOONA

WRITTEN BY LESLIE PERLMUTTER

Asthe days get longer,thoughts turn to quick getaways, romantic weekends and family road trips. Altoona (and the rest of Blair County), Pa., offers aplethora of activities. Whether you are ahistory buff, amusement park thrill seeker,outdoor enthusiast, craft beer aficionado, baseball fan, foodie or aspiring Instagram influencer,the destination will not disappoint.

Mark Ickes, executive director of Explore Altoona, and the man behind the revamped and super-informative explorealtoona.com website, is enthusiastic about the myriad attractions: “Altoona/Blair County is asmall destination packed with big adventures,”hesays.

“From two amusement parks each holding aunique place among the arena of family fun attractions; the County’s history being demonstrated and exhibited at Baker Mansion, the only Greek Temple style home in Pennsylvania; the western-most Revolutionary Warsite in America at Fort Roberdeau, to a blossoming performing and visual cultural arts scene and the recently designated September 11th National Memorial Trail, these are but just afew of the variety of experiences one will have the opportunity to explore in Blair County.”

DelGrosso’sAmusement Park offers great amusement park rides and Laguna Splash Water Park —America’s only Italian-themed water park with aColosseum-designed Roman Splash Bucket and areplica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Additionally,DelGrosso’sfamous restaurants and food kiosks serve delicious Italian cuisine.

Fort Roberdeau opened in May 1778 to protect an important lead mining and smelting operation during the American Revolution. Today,with 230 acres, Fort Roberdeau delights

visitors with areconstructed Revolutionary Warfort, buildings and smelter,a restored 19th century farmhouse and barn, hiking trails and costumed interpreters.

Ickes highlights some other attractions for history buffs: “The Altoona Railroaders Memorial Museum is America’s only interactive railroaders museum and consists of three floors of exhibits; in addition, the Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark is the only place in the world at which trains can be viewed climbing the mountainside in the shape of ahorseshoe,”hesays.

Sports enthusiasts will want to check out The Altoona Curve, an AA affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. The team celebrates its 25th anniversary season this year with special events at People’s Natural Gas Field, abeloved minor league park.

Ickes adds, “Lakemont Park is not only the home of the world’soldest roller coaster,Leap the Dips; it has also transformed itself into agathering place hosting events and festivals, boasting regulation-sized sand volleyball courts, two themed miniature golf courses, and vast green spaces for additional activities.”

Other outdoor recreation options abound from the mustsee Canoe Creek State Park to the September 11th National Memorial Trail, which is evolving into an unbroken 1,300mile system of roads, trails and greenways that link the three national 9/11 memorials in NYC, DC,and PA

For those seeking refreshment after all these activities, Ickes notes, “The County has 285 restaurants and brewpubs including locally-owned chef-inspired eateries, awealth of national flag restaurants, as well as signature treats like Gardner’sPeanut Butter Meltaway,Boyers’ Mallo Cup, and DelGrosso sauces.”Gardners Candies, alocal favorite since 1897, is adestination unto itself.

RAILROADERS MEMORIAL MUSEUM DELGROSSO’S AMUSEMENT PARK

The Hagerstown Haberdashers

Brewer & Myers, an exclusive Hagerstown clothing store for men and boys in the early 20th century, was known primarily for its wide assortment of quality merchandise – suits, topcoats, overcoats and shoes – at moderate prices. Original founders Peter S. Brewer and John D. Myers, can be seen here standing in front of their display windows (at far left and third from right). The business changed its name to John D. Myers & Company, shortly after the death of Brewer in 1918.

The retailer’s location at 25-27 North Potomac Street sat alongside the Hagerstown Dining Room, whose lettered window boasts a “quick

lunch” for ladies and gents, not to mention being “Open All Night.” In 1910, the restaurant installed a $950 “self-playing unit” for patrons, which played music for guests to accompany the establishment’s menu which advertised “all home cooking.”

This vintage image was preserved and provided courtesy of the Washington County Historical Society. To enjoy hundreds more historic views from the society’s collection, visit washcohistory.org

How Does Their Garden Grow?

Community Gardening Offers Chance to Connect

Written by Paulette Lee

Maybe you’ve seen it driving by on Potomac Avenue, across from Bester Elementary School and diagonally across from Rose Hill Cemetery – bursting with color in the late spring, lushly green in the summer, ready for harvesting in the fall, peacefully resting in the winter: the Hagerstown Community Garden. Gardens may be seasonal, but for locals who want a garden but don’t have the space, this one offers more than flowers and produce. It offers connection.

The garden has 26 plots of two different sizes, two of which are raised for wheelchair accessibility. For a modest annual fee (that can be reduced assuming income guidelines are met), urban gardeners can have a plot and grow their own food and/or flowers. Retiring City Engineer Rodney Tissue worked with passionate resi-

dents on the community garden concept in 2014 and their proposal was approved by the Mayor and City Council; the garden is now part of the overall city park system and is modestly funded to provide city water and frames for planting beds. The city also has a partnership with the local office of Tractor Supply, which donates supplies and occasional labor.

Gardeners have access to the locked gate dawn to dusk any time during the year, even winter, when some gardeners have winter crops. They’re responsible for maintaining their own plot, as well as keeping the whole area looking good and tending to the communal herb garden and Monarch way station that attracts the endangered butterfly pollinators. Garden rules include ensuring the plants are organic – no chemical pesticides or herbicides are to be used.

Plot assignment is based on availability. On average,

With its 26 plots for public use, the Hagerstown Community Garden began in 2014 and is now part of the overall city park system. about 16 gardeners per year return for the following year, and applications for the available plots are taken in the winter months, awarded on a first come, first served basis with preference given to city residents. Tissue says assignments are not based on gardening experience.

“We have a whole range of people from those who don’t know the difference between a shovel and a rake, to very experienced gardeners. They help each other, teach each other, share seeds, give each other tips. I think that’s as important as growing food. It’s definitely a success: we’re connecting two dozen different people and families with each other, who are able to grow their own produce and learn about gardening.”

Hagerstown Community Garden gardener Monica Johnson has taken that learning aspect even further. A teacher educator for Montessori School teachers, she photographs the fruits and vegetables she grows in her plot –as well as the animal life that frequents it – and uses those pictures to create early childhood language materials, for example, in matching games, that she features on her web

Monica Johnson, Hagerstown Community Garden gardener

site, Teachers Pay Teachers, at www.teacherspayteachers. com/Store/Montessori-Dujour.

Why grow her own garden, instead of just using others’ pictures of fruits, flowers and vegetables?

“The Montessori teaching method relies on stories,” Johnson explains, “and we really try to highlight the connection between people and their work. So, when a Montessori teacher downloads this, they’ll say, ‘This is a person who lives in Maryland, who has a garden, and in her garden, these are the things she grows. She made a matching game for us. Let’s see if we can find the matching vegetables in her garden.’”

Johnson is always changing her garden; for example, she has made a salsa garden, and a sensory garden (things to look at, smell, eat and feel); she’s at her plot every weekend year-round, and in summer multiple times a week. All the gardeners meet for a monthly Saturday clean-up in which non-garden volunteers also participate, which is just one way Johnson says the gardeners have to connect and share.

“We have a gardening schedule; some do their watering in the morning, some in the evening, so we learn what different gardeners’ theories are, and we help each other if someone isn’t available to water. We have a Facebook group. We share seeds and plants and try new foods through our sharing. We harvest for a few local charities, such as It’s a Blessing to Be a Blessing, and we often contribute to the share table on Locust Street. People need to eat.”

Another area community garden is at Hebron Mennonite Church in Hagerstown’s North End, where non-church member Deb Simerlink of Hagerstown has been a gardener since the first crops were harvested in 2009 on the church’s former lawn. She says the mission of the community garden is “to provide healthy organic produce to the garden members and the community while

“We have a whole range of people from those who don’t know the difference between a shovel and a rake, to very experienced gardeners. They help each other, teach each other, share seeds, give each other tips. I think that’s as important as growing food.”

developing a greater sense of fellowship among the participants and supporting each other in the goal of living a more sustainable lifestyle.”

Garden membership is open to anyone in the community and there is an annual membership fee based on ability to pay. Any experience level is welcome (including no experience) as long as they are willing to contribute and learn/share knowledge. There are 40 beds of varying size, but Simerlink says while it’s possible to request an individual plot, all current members share the beds, work, and produce.

“That gives us all flexibility and allows us to grow a wide variety of crops. Everything is grown organically – no pesticides or commercial fertilizer. Last year, we finally were able to erect a six-foot fence to help keep deer and groundhogs out.

“Crops are divided equitably amongst the gardeners. If we have excess of any item, we generally donate it to the church members. We grow a wide variety of crops and even a wide variety of a type of crop (for example, we have grown as many as 30 types of tomatoes in a year). We also take requests from garden members and we’re basically

willing to try anything that can be grown in this region.”

For communities that are in the planning or development stage, such as Boonsboro, Monica Johnson says location is important, but access is key.

“Where are you advertising for people to join the garden, and how are you getting people of all ages involved? Also, think about the community – the garden’s surroundings. For example, the Hagerstown Community Garden is across from a Title I elementary school, where many of the families are experiencing poverty. On their way to school, the children are seeing beauty – sundials, little windmills, sunflowers, pollinators and fruit growing on trees in the spring. Those are things that they’re maybe not seeing in other parts of the city. Our fruit trees are outside the garden fence, so anyone can pick from a tree. We want to have things for everybody.”

She stops, then adds, “Don’t forget the pollinators! They’re more important than anything. Without the bees and butterflies, we wouldn’t have anything!”

Forty shared beds of varying size are part of the community garden at Hebron Mennonite Church in Hagerstown’s North End.

Written by Linda Harkcom

Grape Escape

By following the Antietam Highlands Wine Trail, wine lovers can experience Washington and Frederick Counties in a unique way.

The trail is one of 10 created by the Maryland Office of Tourism. According to its website, www.visitmaryland.org/ list/wine-trails, along the Antietam Wine Trail visitors will experience some of Maryland’s lush, rolling hills, historic battlefields and unforgettable small towns. The trail features eight different wineries, all located in Frederick and Washington counties.

Antietam Creek Vineyards is the first stop on the tour. Tasting Room Manager Kim Greenfield says that Antietam Creek Vineyards, is a privately owned by George Warmenhoven and Joan Larrea. The winery, and its vineyard, sit on a 55-acre farm located adjacent to Antietam National Battlefield and along Antietam Creek.

“You’ll find us at 4835 Branch Ave. in Sharpsburg, Md. If you are using GPS to locate us, and you find your path winding through the battlefield tour, do not despair, this is the way to the winery. Enjoy the views along the way, and we’ll see you between battlefield tour stops 10 and 11,” Greenfield says.

The winery makes good use of a classic Maryland bank barn. The historic barn was built in the Mennonite

Take a trip along the Antietam Highlands Wine Trail

tradition, with a peg-and-post upper level and stone foundation.

“Our tasting room is located inside a carefully renovated 1903 dairy barn. Customers rave about our rustic ambiance, picturesque views and laid-back atmosphere,” Greenfield says.

Greenfield says the boutique winery produces about 1000 cases annually. She says they offer eight to 10 different wines at any given point.

“We offer red and white wines which are mainly dry with a couple semi-sweet options. A crowd favorite is our Peach wine, made only from peaches, it’s a beautiful balance of guilt and floral notes. Although it’s delicious any time of the year, it’s perfect for hot summer days. An in-house favorite is our Petit Verdot. Rich and bold with notes of black pepper,” Greenfield says.

Antietam Creek Vineyards offers live music on weekends, Saturday and Sunday, noon to 6 p.m., mid-March to mid-November. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, they are also open Friday evenings. Greenfield says that they plan to add weekday hours.

The winery also offers a space for events of all kinds such as showers, corporate gatherings, weddings, etc.

Antietam Creek Vineyards’ 1903 converted dairy bank barn. Upstairs, the staff welcomes guests and serve wine; the downstairs is used for production and storage.

Antietam Creek Vineyards customers’ favorite seat overlooking part of the farm that adjoins the battlefield. Antietam Creek is just beyond the tree line.

The next stop on the tour is Big Cork Vineyards, located at 4236 Main St., in Rohersville, Md. According to the tour website, Big Cork’s wines are crafted by award-winning vintner Dave Collins.

The winery can be found on 100 rolling acres amid the Blue Ridge Mountains. Their farm grows 18 grape varietals and produces more than 25 types of estate wine.

The winery is open Thursday through Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. According to its website, www.bigcorkvineyards.com, the winery only offers tastings by appointment.

The third stop on the tour is Blue Mountain Wine Crafters Boutique Winery, located at 117 E. Baltimore St. in Funkstown, Md. Owner/

Winemaker Cindy Rowe says the winery offers many different wines made from local Maryland grapes and fruit.

“We also go to New York for a few of our varieties. We have dry and sweet, red and white wines, a couple of blush wines and for the sweet lovers we offer dessert wines as well as some ports,” Rowe says. “Girls Best Friend,” a sweet white wine that is made from Diamond grapes, Rowe says, is super popular right now.

“Our ‘Cabernet Franc’ and ‘Petit Verdot,’ dry, red, barrel-aged wines are two of the local favorites made from Maryland grapes purchased from 78 Acres in Smithsburg Md.,” Rowe says.

The winery is open daily. On the weekends it offers live music featuring local musicians on Friday nights, 6 to 9 p.m., Saturdays, 2 to 5 p.m., and Sundays, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

“Our Boutique winery offers many varieties of exceptional, award-winning wine, home brewing and wine making supplies as well as gifts for all wine lovers. You can make your own wine, beer and cider with us. All of this is offered with friendly small-town service,” Rowe says.

The tour’s next stop is Cool Ridge Vineyard, located at 19638 Cool Hollow Road in Hagerstown. This boutique vineyard and winery has 16-acres of grapevines sitting atop the ridge that terraces down to Cool Hollow and the Antietam Creek. Visitors can enjoy beautiful mountain views and award-winning European style dry wines. Tours and tastings are by appointment only. For more information, visit its website, www. coolridgevineyard.com.

The fifth stop on the trail is Mazzaroth Vineyard, a family-run bou-

tique winery located at 8333 Myersville Road, Middletown, Md. According to its website, www.mazzarothvineyard. com, the winery plans to reopen for visits in April.

Orchid Cellar Meadery and Winery is the next winery on the tour. The hand-built log cabin, located on 15 acres in the Middletown Valley of Frederick County, at 8546 Pete Wiles Road, in Middletown, Md., serves as its tasting room. The winery specializes in unique meads ranging from dry to sweet, still to sparkling, and fruity to earthy to even spicy. Limited wine options are also available. For more information, visit its website, www. orchidcellar.com.

Pouring one of Blue Mountain Wine Crafters many fine red wines made from local Maryland grapes grown in Smithsburg, Md., at 78 Acres.

A tasting flight of five wines offered daily at Blue Mountain Wine Crafters.

Our next to last stop on the tour is the Red Heifer Winery, located at 12840 Red Heifer Winery Lane, in Smithsburg, Md. Owner Yvonne Ford said the winery offers a large variety of estate bottled dry and sweet wines.

“All of the grapes for our dry wines are cultivated here in Smithsburg, Maryland,” Ford says.

Red Heifer also offers wine slushies, dessert wines and Port-style fortified wines. Guests at Red Heifer can enjoy wine by the flight, glass or bottle.

“Additionally, we are in the beginning process of adding sparkling wines to our offerings. We hope to debut our selection in the summer of 2023,” Ford says. “Wines are as different as people are. With offering so many different styles and types of wine, we are able to please most palates.”

Ford says her personal favorite is “Winemakers Chardonel Reserve.” She said the wine is a lovely

hybrid grape varietal developed at Cornell University.

“We barrel age it in French oak to bring out delicate vanilla and coconut notes. Kevin, Red Heifer Winery’s winemaker, says, “the most popular wine is the one in your glass.” At the end of a busy day, however, he most enjoys a glass of Petit Verdot for its bold fruit and heavy tannins,” Ford says.

The Red Heifer hosts outdoor music events from May through October.

“As an adults-only winery, everyone can expect a relaxing afternoon of enjoying wine, taking in the view, and listening to live music,” Ford says.

Guests can also rent semi-private and private experiences with their winter Igloos, summertime cabanas, and vineyard pergola.

“Through the spring and fall, we have lovely flower gardens that guests enjoy,” Ford says.

For more information,

visit its website, www. RedHeiferWinery.com.

The final stop on the Antietam Highlands Winery Trail is Willow Oaks Craft Cider and Wine located at 6219 Harley Road in Middletown, Md. The 35-acre farm crafts their farmhouse style cider from certified organic American heirloom apples. For more information, visit www.willowoakscraftcider.com.

An enjoyable way to beat the summertime heat is with a delicious wine slushy. Red Heifer’s flavors rotate weekly.

Red Heifer Winery offers sweet and dry wines. Guests can build their own flights.

Beautiful landscapes and an expansive patio offers table seating under shade umbrellas at Red Heifer Winery.

Igloo bookings are available November through March at Red Heifer Winery. The private, heated igloos accommodate up to six guests and feature full service.

Rolling, Rolling, Rolling

Makes Tracks To A Wagon Train

Actor Ward Bond shouted “Wagons, Ho!” on the 1950s “Wagon Train” television series. Today, wagon owners and horseback riders go back in time every May on the National Pike Festival’s reenactment of a wagon train. Wagon trains have been rolling since 1989 as a part of the Maryland segment of the Washington County National Pike Festival. With its strategic geographical location between the Allegheny Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains, Washington County played a key role in opening the West to our nation.

Written by Tricia Lynn Strader

It’s the only living history demonstration in the state of Maryland that reenacts “the road that made the nation.” The National Pike Festival and James Shaull Wagon TrainMaryland is called the longest festival in the world. Various towns from Baltimore to Ohio celebrate in different ways.

In 1797, some bankers saw a need for a road west. Waterways were the only good transportation at the time. Rough trails were the alternative. They wanted to extend the Baltimore-National Pike to Cumberland. In 1806, President Thomas Jefferson signed into law an act authorizing federal funds to build a road from Cumberland, Md., to Ohio.

The bankers found an architect from Europe to design it, and in 1811, construction

began on the “bank road,” named for the bankers financing the project. It became part of the National Pike. Jefferson’s law was a forbearer to our federal transportation system we know today.

The National Pike Festival is sponsored by the James Shaull Wagon Train Foundation, Inc., which was formed and incorporated in August 2000 in honor of James Shaull. He farmed with his Belgian horses, showing passersby how it was done a generation or two ago before mechanized farm equipment. Shaull also participated in annual wagon trains and parades, as well as presidential inaugurals in Washington, D.C. He was the first Wagon Master of the National Pike Festival in 2000 before he passed away from a tractor accident.

With state, local and private funding, the James Shaull Foundation offers educational and historical wagon trains through the state of Maryland.

For many generations of families in the region, it has been a tradition. Secretary-Treasurer and National Pike Festival co-organizer Chad Walker says he’s been riding horses for a long time and attending the National Pike Festival for about 12 years. About seven years ago, he became the secretary-treasurer. He will drive a replica Conestoga wagon with Belgian horses.

Other families have second or third-generation participants. Some of the older folks had to step back a few years ago from the organization of it or give up the reins literally on participating. Younger history lovers like Walker stepped up to make sure it kept rolling.

“I wanted to help to keep it going, and pass on the value of the education and history of the road,” Walker says. “I’ve been riding Western for a long time, and five or six years ago I started driving a wagon. We anticipate a good turnout.”

Because of COVID-19 restrictions, the wagons didn’t roll for two years. Last year, the wagon train was as busy as ever, with 17 surreys and wagons, and 42 or 43 outriders (horseback riders), according to Walker.

Set up of an authentic encampment is 5 p.m. on Friday evening, May 19, at Clear Spring Volunteer Fire Bingo Hall, 12323 Big Spring Road. The public is invited to the encampment. There will be live music, and visitors have an opportunity to talk with reenacting members of the foundation, and check out the horses, mules and covered wagons as they gather to start their long trip on Saturday morning.

Saturday morning the wagon train parades through Clear Spring and moves to the circa 1850 Wilson’s Store, Huyett’s Crossroads, and Wacohu Grange. It will stop about 10:30 a.m. at Wilson’s Store. Walk back in time and witness all these wagons starting out there venture down Route 40. Many participants dress in period attire. A per-

fect photo opportunity is the crossing of the old Wilson Bridge about 11:15 a.m. All times are approximate.

The wagon train proceeds to Wacohu Grange for lunch and on to Hagerstown City Park about 2 p.m., then Funkstown Community Park around 4 or 5 p.m. for overnight camp; Sunday, it proceeds down Old National Pike to end in Boonsboro’s Shafer Memorial Park.

The many locations give the public numerous chances to visit with and talk to the participants, all for free. Meals are sold at some locations like Wacohu Grange and Shafer Memorial Park for a nominal fee. Some stops are near other historic sites of interest like Jonathan Hager House and The Railroad Museum.

For more information, see the foundation’s Facebook page at National Pike Festival and James Shaull Wagon Train-Maryland or visit jamesshaullwagontr.wixsite. com. Email jamesshaullwagontrainfdn@gmail.com or call 540-303-3083.

Chad Walker is the secretary-treasurer of the National Pike Festival and James Shaull Wagon Train.  Chad Walker is on the right. COURTESY OF CHAD WALKER

Correspondent Tricia Lynn Strader dons period attire at the National Pike Festival.

LIFT YOUR SPIRITS

Take a cultural journey along the American Whiskey Trail

Written by Linda Harkcom

According to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS), spirits tourism is a booming industry, as more and more people are looking to discover and explore the rich history and heritage sites behind their favorite spirits.

In 2004, DISCUS created The American Whiskey Trail. According to Maggie Quinn, director of public relations for DISCUS, over the nearly two decades since, there has been a proliferation of more than 2,000 small distilleries in cities and towns across

the country. As the U.S. distilled spirits market becomes more diverse, the opportunity for distilleries and local economies to capitalize on spirits tourism has also grown, leading to more than 40 distillery trails across the country.

“The increase in spirits tourism is a clear indication of the growing awareness and appreciation for the art and science of distillation, and a desire among consumers to experience and understand the nuances that make each spirit unique,” Quinn says. “It is exciting to see consumers seek out experiences that connect them to the stories of producers and processes

behind the products they love – from grain to glass!”

In 2022 DISCUS launched Destination Distillery, www.destinationdistillery.com, a website providing a tourism-driven experience and educational journey into the cultural heritage and history of spirits in America. One of the trails featured on this new website is the Whiskey Rebellion Trail.

The Whiskey Rebellion took place in the 1790s. It was a violent tax protest against the “whiskey tax,” which was the first tax put on a domestic product by the United States government.

The Whiskey Rebellion Trail stretches from Pennsylvania through

Stoll and Wolfe Distillery in Lititz, Pa., offers tastings, tours, craft cocktails and private events

Still and Wolfe distills rye and bourbon, cask finishes and distillery only releases

Maryland, and all the way to the nation’s capital.

The trail starts in the Philadelphia region of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia, Pa., was the nation’s capital when the whiskey excise legislation was passed in 1791. It’s also where President Washington issued a proclamation against the Whiskey Rebellion’s rebels.

Distillers and attractions listed at this point on the trail include: Five Saints Distilling, Manatawny Still Works, Revivalist Spirits and Stoll and Wolfe Distillery.

Avianna Wolfe, who co-owns Stoll and Wolfe Distillery in Lititz, Pa., with her husband Erik Wolfe, says their historic whiskey distillery in Lancaster County is reviving a 275-year whiskey distilling legacy.

“Stoll and Wolfe’s legacy pre-dates the Whiskey Rebellion itself, our late Master Distiller Dick Stoll, who was trained under C. Everett Beam, was the last master distiller at the first recognized distillery in the country beginning in 1753,” Avianna Wolfe says.

Still and Wolfe distills rye and bourbon, cask finishes and distillery only releases. It offers tastings, tours, craft cocktails and private events. For hours of operation and other information, visit www.stollandwolfe.com.

Western Pennsylvanian was the hotbed of the rebellion and our second stop on the Whiskey Rebellion Tour.

Featured distillers and attractions listed at this point on the trail include Bradford House Museum, Burgess & Burgess Distillery, Golden Eagle Inn, Lawrenceville Distilling, Liberty Pole Spirits, Maggie’s Farm Rum, Quantum Spirits, Tall Pines Distillery, West Overton Village and Museum, Wigle Whiskey, the Whiskey Rebellion Festival and Woodville Experience.

West Overton Village and Museum was a working farm, distillery and village at the time of the Whiskey Rebellion. In 1928, it was established as a museum by Helen Clay Frick honoring her father, Henry Clay Frick, who was born on the property. The museum preserves about 40 acres of the Overholt family’s original farm.

One of the newest features at the museum is an old grain been which has been outfitted with structural glass so that visitors can stand in the middle of the bin and see above, as well as below them. Co-Executive Director Aaron Hollis said the exhibit allows guests to understand what 3,000 pounds of grain looks and feels like.

In 2020, West Overton Distilling began producing its own brand of Monongahela rye whiskey at the Educational Distillery, located in their historic two-story brick stock barn. The Educational Distillery distills whiskey with a recipe of 80 percent rye grain and 20 percent malted barley.

The whiskey is aged in charred White Oak barrels.

“The product for us is great, but we did this to teach people about the process, the science and the history of whiskey production,” Hollis says.

The organization hosts adult events as well as family-friendly events throughout the year. For more information on events as well as operating days and times, visit www.westovertonvillage.org.

Maryland was the only state not to ratify the Prohibition amendment. This made Baltimore the epicenter of undercover whiskey distillation and our next stop on the tour. Featured distillers include Baltimore Spirits Company, McClintock Distilling Company, Olde Line Spirits, Sagamore Spirit and Tenth Ward Distilling.

Sagamore Spirit’s award-winning, five-acre waterfront distillery is located in the Baltimore. Md., Peninsula neighborhood.

“At Sagamore Spirit, we craft premium rye whiskies which are a blend of two mash bills, a high-rye and a lowrye,” says Brian Treacy, co-founder and president of Sagamore Spirit.

According to Treacy, Maryland’s reputation for rye whiskey craft dates back to colonial times. He says the state was once one of the leading producers of whiskey, being home to more than 44 distilleries before Prohibition

This exhibit of an operating mill is located inside the museum at West Overton Village in Scottdale, Pa. The site had both a working mill and distillery before prohibition in 1920.

PHOTO BY LINDA HARKCOM

Watermelon carved in celebration of George Washington’s Whiskey Rebellion Festival. COURTESY OF ALLEGHENY MUSEUM

Local reenenactors at the Allegheny Museum play original tavern games during the annual George Washington’s Whiskey Rebellion Festival. COURTESY OF ALLEGHENY MUSEUM

Attendees “cheer” in celebration of the annual Whiskey Rebellion Festival at the Allegheny Museum. COURTESY OF ALLEGHENY MUSEUM

and World War II took their tolls, finally dwindling down to dormancy by the early 1970s.

“At Sagamore Spirit, our mission from day one has been to share a global passion for Maryland rye whiskey. We’re proud to be among a growing corps of distillers leading a local whiskey renaissance in our community and restoring our home state’s rightful place in America’s whiskey-making heritage,” Treaty says.

Sagamore Spirit offers distillery tours, tastings, shopping, craft cocktails, classes and events.

“We’ll take you through the history of Maryland rye while sharing our whiskey-making process, from fermentation, to distilling, to bottling. Once we’ve wrapped up the educational portion of our tour, we’ll get into the good stuff with a guided tasting of four of our expressions, so you can truly understand how Maryland rye whiskey comes to life,” Tracy says. For more information, visit www.sagamorespirit.com.

The final stop on the official tour is the Washington, D. C., region, where the excise tax on whiskey was finally repealed in 1802 by then President Thomas Jefferson. The distilleries and attractions featured include Cotton & Reed, District Made Spirits, Don Ciccio & Fig, George Washington’s Mount Vernon and Republic Restoratives Distillery.

While no longer an official tour stop,

one location readers may want to put on their list to visit is the Allegany Museum, located in Cumberland, Md.

Allegany Museum Media Relations

Director Courtney McKay Jensen said George Washington visited the region many times, including to help quell the Whiskey Rebellion of the early 1790s.

“President Washington himself arrived in Cumberland to lead the gathered militias; the only time a sitting President has led troops into the field. Due to this, and the rich heritage of our region, we celebrate this bit of history and much more during our annual George Washington’s Whiskey Rebellion Festival every year,” Jensen says.

The museum has hosted the annual festival since 2016. Jensen says the event, a fundraiser for the museum, is held in their historic ballroom where guests enjoy tastings of whiskey and other spirits, historic re-enactments, a silent auction, authentic colonial games, visits from “President Washington,” hors d’oevres, cigars and whiskey pairings, and a goody bag including a souvenir whiskey glass.

“Not only is the area rich in history, but it is also rich in whiskey during our annual fundraiser each year,” Jensen says.

For more information on the museum and the festival, visit www.alleganymuseum.org. To find out more about the Whiskey Rebellion Trail, visit www. whiskeyrebelliontrail.com.

The distillery at West Overton Village and Museum in Scottdale, Pa., as well as the rye whiskey sold there. The Pennsylvania White Rye and the Monongahela Rye Whiskey are both distilled at the historic site. Jasper’s Stash is distilled in Philadelphia and bottled at West Overton.

PHOTO BY LINDA HARKCOM

The distillery at Sagamore Spirit is just one stop on the in-house tours.

Sagamore Spirit in Baltimore features a tasting room offering samples of its rye whiskey.

The five-acre waterfront distillery at Sagamore Spirit.

Olde Homestead

310 South Main St., Boonsboro, MD 21713 240-329-9353

www.olde-homestead.com

April 3 - April 8 Easter

Eggstravaganza at Olde Homestead!

Up to 10% off one item

May 12 - 14

MOTHER’S DAY SALE at Olde Homestead!

10% off Jewelry, Handbags & Scarves

Cronise Market Place

312 South Main St. 301-432-7377

www.cronisemarket.com

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE! FREE 30-DAY LAYAWAY BRIDAL REGISTRY

27th Annual Fort Frederick

18th Century Market Fair

Fort Frederick State Park

Big Pool, MD

April 27 - 30, 2023

9:00am to 5:00pm A juried 1730-1790 Artisan Fair

Admission: Adults $5:00, Children 6-12 $2.00

Children 5 and under: Free

4 Day Multi-Passes available

For additional information: Fort Frederick State Park 301-842-2155

Cronise Market Place offers fresh local fruits & vegetables, jellies & ciders, a large variety of beautiful fowers including hanging baskets, bedding plants, perennials, herbs & vegetable plants, lawn & garden décor, birdhouses, wind chimes and fags.

Olde Homestead offers a large variety of Country, Vintage & Farmhouse Decor, forals, curtains, linens, rugs, bedding, pictures, lamps, furniture, candles, jewelry, hand bags & unique gifts.

Get Crafty

Washington County Pottery Trail showcases work of 10 local ceramic artists

Written by Joseph Ritacco

Ceramic artists on the Washington County Pottery Trail are, from left, Denise Joyal, Pam Hall, Bill van Gilder, Allison Severance, Dirk Martin, Kirke Martin and Mark Poole. Not pictured are Tameria Martinez, Stephen Wright and Hunt Prothro.

While perusing the tourism guide for Hagerstown/Washington County, Kirke Martin came to the realization that more could be done to highlight the community of ceramic artists in the area, of which he is a longstanding member. It was Washington County’s “Grapes & Grains” tour of area wineries, breweries and distilleries, in particular, that caught his attention and inspired him to pitch the idea of a Washington County Pottery Trail linking 10 local potters who make the

South Mountain Corridor home.

Launched in 2022, the Pottery Trail celebrates the rich agricultural history and cultural vitality of the area, as well as the longstanding connection between pottery, nature and food. It has also help to boost business for its participants.

“It’s a cooperative group,” says Martin, who operates M4 Studios and Gallery in Keedysville, Md. “We’ve been able to attract more visitors to our studios, and to each other’s.”

He adds, “There is a large group of creative people in this area because of its beauty – the beauty of the landscape, the hills, the Potomac River, and the proximity to Washington, D.C.”

Among the most common visitors to the Pottery Trail are residents from the Pittsburgh, Pa., or Washington, D.C., areas who stop in during camping trips and/or hiking excursions. Those who visit Martin’s M4 Studios and Gallery will find a range of functional and sculptural ceramics fusing traditional techniques and independent designs. He has 30 years of experience and specializes in

Washington County, Maryland Pottery Trail

1 Foxcross Pottery

Address: 6640 Remsburg Road, Sharpsburg, Md.

Phone: 301-331-0820

Visit: foxcrosspottery.com

Hours: Saturday, noon to 5 p.m., Sunday, noon to 5 p.m., or by appointment

Foxcross Pottery studio overlooks the Potomac River, nestled in a quiet corner of Washington County, Maryland – an area rich in history, craftsmanship and tradition.

2 M4 Studios and Gallery

Address: 4803 Mt. Briar Road, Keedysville, Md. Phone: 410-739-9016

Visit: instagram.com/m4studios

Hours: Pottery studio, roadside gallery and main gallery open dawn to dusk daily.

Featuring Kirke Martin’s Pottery, Kesra Hoffman’s Landscape Paintings, Alan Clingan’s woodworking, and Joy Bridy’s brooms and other wood-fired pottery and sculptures.

3

Hunt Prothro

Address: 20100 Millbrook Road, Rohrersville, Md.

Phone: 202-494-1045

Visit: instagram.com/huntprothro

Hours: Saturday/Sunday: noon to 5 p.m., weekdays by appointment

Hunt Prothro exhibits his robust and emotionally rich ceramic art in the modernist gallery of his 19th century farmhouse; he works in an adjacent studio. Each building is an archive of recycled materials, locally milled lumber and hand-built furniture. His work is in both public and private collections, including The Smithsonian American Art Museum.

4

van Gilder Pottery

Address: 20834 Townsend Road, Gapland, Md.

Email: vangilderpottery@gmail.com

Visit: vangilderpottery.com

Hours: Saturday/Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.

Established in 1985, they are a working pottery and contemporary craft gallery featuring an eclectic collection of handmade stoneware, fine jewelry, woodenwares, glass and more. Located in a restored barn atop South Mountain at the west entrance to Gathland State Park and adjacent to the Appalachian Trail.

5 Tameria Martinez Clay

Address: 21001 Tasker Lane, Boonsboro, Md.

Phone: 301-524-9510

Visit: tameriamartinezclay.com

Hours: By appointment

Artist Tameria Martinez works in her clay studio and fires her wood fueled train kiln. Her work includes porcelain and stoneware vessels, both functional and decorative, thrown on the potter’s wheel. Tameria currently teaches porcelain and glaze classes for advanced level students.

6 Kilnjoy Ceramics

Address: 22201 Pondsville Road, Smithsburg, Md.

Phone: 301-991-2360

Visit: kilnjoy.com

Hours: By appointment or occasional open houses

Decorative and functional ceramic art for your table and life. Artist Denise Joyal uses atmospheric firing to create surfaces inspired by her love of the intensity of sunlight and shadow prior to dusk.

7 Orchard View Pottery

Address: 23319 Barth Spring Lane, Smithsburg, Md.

Phone: 443-621-1070

Visit: facebook.com/orchard.view.pottery

Hours: By appointment or check Facebook page Functional stoneware pottery and raku pottery.

8 Highfield Pottery

Address: 25210 Cascade Road, Cascade, Md.

Phone: 240-446-9552

Visit: allisonseverancepottery.com

Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (self-serve gallery in restored barn)

Wood-fired salt glazed pottery by Allison Coles Severance. Wheel thrown on her old kick wheel and fired in a wood burning kiln she built – her useful pots are crafted by hand and meant to be used.

wood-fired ceramics, while also producing a series of pieces that are fired in electric or gas kilns. He operates a roadside gallery and an inside gallery that are “meant to be accommodating,” he says, adding, “I like people to visit the studio and see how I make things, and see that people really live this way.”

Artisans along the Pottery Trail create pieces that range from elegance to the everyday. Find a beautiful hand-crafted bowl for your culinary creations or that perfect gift for a loved one that promises to be unique. For more information, visit www.visithagerstown.com.

Ceramic artists on the Washington County Pottery Trail are, from left, Denise Joyal, Pam Hall, Bill van Gilder, Allison Severance, Dirk Martin, Kirke Martin and Mark Poole. Not pictured are Tameria Martinez, Stephen Wright and Hunt Prothro.

9 Wright Hand Studio

Address: 571 Jefferson St., Hagerstown, Md.

Phone: 800-990-4263

Visit: wrighthanddrums.com

Hours: By appointment

Clay artist Stephen Wright produces and sells his internationally recognized line of professional ceramic hand percussion instruments there, as well as his line of stoneware pottery. He also teaches all aspects of working with clay in the teaching side of his studio including: throwing on the wheel, hand building and sculpture.

10 Twin Moons Pottery

Address: 13650 Greencastle Pike, Hagerstown, Md.

Phone: 301-790-4047

Visit: twinmoonspottery.com

Hours: By appointment or by chance

Artist Pam Hall’s unique art is created in porcelain and stoneware clay. She does both “art pottery” and “functional ware” all meant to be used and enjoyed. In studio private and group classes available from May through November.

Saddle Up!

As a lifelong horse lover and businessowner, Annette Gavin has found the perfect fit.

Written by Paulette Lee

Deep into rural Washington County, outside the small town of Clear Spring, is the horse boarding farm Stoneleigh Equine, and on that property is a two-story building painted brick red and constructed specifically to house two businesses, both owned by the same woman. Annette Gavin, a 67-year-old transplant from England, has an unusual occupation: She is one of only 46 Master Saddle Fitters in the world, and one of only 16 Qualified Bridle Fitters.

A lifelong horse lover (the correct term for which, by the way, is “hippophile”), whose family inherited her father’s riding school on the south coast of England, Gavin was in her late 30s when an opportunity to transport eight horses to their buyers in Pennsylvania took her away from, as she puts it, “mucking out horses

for the rest of my life.” The delivery of those horses led to a connection to Wilson College in Chambersburg, Pa., where, armed with her college degree plus an equine studies degree from the British Horse Society, she taught in the Equine Studies program for some two decades. “We had a lot of services in the UK to support this field of study, but there weren’t so many here,” Gavin says, “so I got my saddler to come from the UK to make saddles for my students. You can’t teach someone to sit in balance in a saddle that’s not balanced.”

Actually, it’s the horse who is fit for the saddle first. A saddle is built for the horse from the frame downward, and then adjusted for the rider from the seat upward. “It’s more to do with physics than horses,” Gavin explains. “When not in balance with the horse, the horse is working 10 times harder. When not in balance with the rider, it’s harder on the horse, and both risk

being damaged.”

As demands for custom-fitted saddles grew through word of mouth during her Wilson College tenure, Gavin’s UK team found it too difficult to work on both sides of the Atlantic, and told her, “It’s up to you, now.” Gavin went back to the UK to do a three-year saddlery apprenticeship to learn and practice the fitting and repair side of the business – not the manufacturing – studying anatomy, physiology, kinesthetics and biomechanics, the different kinds of “trees” (the saddle framework), and about the trade, in general.

When she returned to Pennsylvania, she launched HCS, USA Saddlery Fittings & Sales (HCS stands for the names of her UK saddle fitters), initially from her home basement. The business is now housed on the ground floor of that brick red building on Stoneleigh Equine in Clear Spring and has grown into what Gavin describes

as “the biggest, most qualified” saddle fitting operation in the country. Her all-women team (by happenstance, not design), manage the orders for the English riding saddles, girths, bridles and bits. Only English “tack” (riding equipment) is sold, as that is what is used in international competitive riding, which is predominant on the U.S. east coast as opposed to U.S. Westernstyle riding. Orders are based on fittings they conduct themselves if the horses are local, or from detailed questionnaires, photos and videos from outof-town customers; the orders are then filled from their warehouse, which is stocked with supplies manufactured off-site. HCS, USA purchases 10 to 12 brands of saddles (most of which are

manufactured in Walsall, England) and from two or three bridle-making companies. Retail prices for saddles range from $800 to $6,000, and bridles cost approximately $500.

“Once you’ve committed to a horse, just like a child or another animal,” Gavin points out, “you have to look after it for the rest of its life, and saddlery is part of that. You have to accept that, and the cost, or not do the sport.”

While HCS, USA doesn’t manufacture saddles, the basics of English traditional saddle-making can be learned upstairs in the brick red building, home to the North American Saddlery School, which also offers hands-on courses for up to eight students per one-week course in bridle-making, and

HCS, USA Saddlery Fitting & Sales in Clear Spring has grown into what is described as “the biggest, most qualified” saddle fitting operation in the country.

saddle and bridle repair, all taught by expert instructors who are recruited internationally. Saddle fitting is also taught, according to the fitting system of the Society of Master Saddlers (headquartered in London). Typically, students return for additional weeks to complete their studies.

In addition to hands-on classes, the school offers continuing education on a variety of equine topics, such as horse pain, shoemaking, leather stitching and horse painting – and every lecture/demonstration includes the presence of a veterinarian.

For more information about HCS, USA Saddlery, visit hcsusasaddlery.com. For the North American Saddlery School, visit saddleryschool.com.

Annette Gavin demonstrates what goes into making the perfect-fitting saddle.

“Once you’ve committed to a horse, just like a child or another animal...you have to look after it for the rest of its life, and saddlery is part of that. You have to accept that, and the cost, or not do the sport.”

Annette Gavin

PAULETTE

Laura Zimmerman, owner of Cool Hollow Flower Farm in Hagerstown, grows countless varieties of flowers on her farmhouse property.

Written by Paulette Lee

Have you seen the online meme: “Gardening is cheaper than therapy, and you get tomatoes?”

According to folks who keep track of these things, American adults spend $48 billion a year on lawn and gardening equipment; more than half of all American households engage in gardening activities; 35 percent of U.S. households grow vegetables, fruits and other food; and the average garden yields $600 of produce a year. That’s quite a “hobby” industry! COVID was also a boon to the industry: the pandemic reportedly created more than 18 million new gardeners, most of whom are millennials. And here we are again at the cusp of a new planting season.

Conventional wisdom says gardeners should start planting after Mother’s Day (this year, it’s May 14), after the last frost; but in our region the frost typically ends earlier than mid-May and local growers say you can start planting earlier than that – of course, depending on what you plant and how much work you want to put into growing. If you’re just starting a garden, you might want to think ahead a bit.

Retired landscape designer and contractor Ann (Sulkie)

Reimann, a longtime member of the Hagerstown Garden Club and designer of the Club’s “Park Circle” project across from the City Park lake and Museum of Fine Arts, says there are three main considerations when planning a garden.

“First, what kind of garden do you want? What are you using it for? Do you want to put in vegetables, herbs, flowers, ornamentals, or a combination? What kinds of birds and insects do you want to attract?”

The second consideration, Reimann says, is maintenance.

“What size will the garden be? What kind of soil do you need? You

have to know a lot about water, temperature, sunlight versus shade, and topography. And, of course, the third consideration is cost – to build it, to maintain it.”

Reimann acknowledges most people starting a garden have a concept of what they want, but not necessarily the knowledge to go about making it successful.

“It’s always useful to call in a designer,” she says. “Ask for pictures, references, and listen to what they say to determine if they know what they’re talking about. All designers are not created equal. A deck and patio designer isn’t necessarily the right choice for a vegetable garden. You have to know what the passion is of the designer you meet. Building a garden isn’t a casual decision and if you get it wrong, it can be very costly.”

While most area plant nurseries don’t open until March or later, Sunny Meadows on the Sharpsburg Pike in Boonsboro, is open year-round. What started out as a small, roadside produce stand has evolved into a large, Mennoniteowned business offering seasonal flowers, produce and ornamental plants both locally grown and brought in from more southern locales.

According to nursery manager Denton Weber, the business’ “core focus” is to have exceptional landscapes, gardens and produce with reliable service, and he offers some examples of the nursery’s variety.

“About March first, we have pansies, lenten roses and helleborus. We also have trees and shrubs in early spring, as well as mulch, for which we offer a delivery service. In March and April we have the ‘cole’ crops, like cabbage, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce and brussel sprouts, because they can take the frost. After Mother’s Day, it’s peppers, tomatoes, green beans, squashes, melons… then in May and June

we have a huge increase in plant selections, including shrubs and perennials.”

“One of the best times to plant is while the plant is still dormant, when there are no leaves and it’s not actively growing,” Weber points out, “because then it doesn’t need as much care and it’s absorbing the nutrients in the soil.”

Sunny Meadows is known for its large selection of seeds sold in bulk and it sells a lot of raised beds, which need to be well-drained, compost and “amendments” to ensure that the soil is appropriate for what is being grown. In June the nursery has a Monarch Alliance sale of native perennials and shrubs (see native plants sidebar) that attract butterflies and other pollinators.

The nursery doesn’t have a website because of its faith-based limitation on online usage, but Weber says that’s actually an advantage.

“We love to help customers. Come on out and experience with all your five senses!”

Cool Hollow Flower Farm in Hagerstown, on the other hand, is not open to the public and does generate its primarily wholesale business in specialty cut flowers for designers and florists through its website, social media and word of mouth. Owner Laura Zimmerman says she’s part of a new movement to bring American flowers to the market, instead of imports.

“The hub is Seattle but it’s a growing industry locally,” Zimmerman says. “We’re invisible, but we’re all over the place. Just in Washington County I work with five others and there are at least 20 of us!”

In business just four years, Zimmerman now grows more varieties of flowers than she can count on her historic farmhouse property, tended to by herself and four parttime employees.

“It’s not like home gardening. We plant almost every week, on a

schedule; for example, sunflower seeds that we plant every Monday from late April through September, take 50-55 days to grow.” In winter she grows 20,000 tulips, 5,000 of which are growing in crates in her basement, while the rest are in outdoor raised beds protected by “high tunnel” agricultural plastic coverings.

“In early spring we plant ranunculus and peonies. Ranunculus look like roses, though they’re not in the same family, but are a good substitute because they bloom earlier and last longer. They’re the beautiful sister of roses.” In later spring she plants zinnias, celosia, globe amaranth, regular amaranth and grasses. “We have so many zinnias! We start in May then stagger throughout the summer.”

Zimmerman reminds home flower growers they can plant throughout the season.

“If you really want a beautiful garden in the fall, you can stagger your planting May through August. For example, you can plant marigold seeds at the first of August. And pansies can grow throughout the year; when it gets cold, cover them with a sheet or towel, and if it gets too cold outdoors, you can bring them inside.”

Creek Heirloom Seeds for varieties that are at least 50 years old, and that can be planted year after year. Of course, don’t forget to water, and here is Zimmerman’s tip on how to remember to do so, when those seeds are still hidden:

“Put a little plant next to where you plant the seeds; when it needs water, you know to water your flower seeds!”

Gardeners – whether new or experienced – who want help can receive it for free from the University of Maryland Extension Home and Garden Information Center online at extension.umd.edu/ programs/environment-natural-resources/program-areas/ home-and-garden-information-center.

Native Plants

According to the Maryland Native Plant Society, “native plants” –species that occur naturally in the area in which they evolved-- are vital for preserving and enhancing biodiversity and form the backbone of any wildlife habitat. They provide food, cover, and a place to raise young; they’re the preferred food for plant-eating insects, and they’re critical for songbird survival.

Cool Hollow Flower Farm in Hagerstown is a wholesale supplier to many area garden shops.

Questions and photos can be sent through the “Ask Extension” online form that is sent directly to a team of certified professional horticulturalists and state Master Gardeners. Fact sheets, tutorials, and a blog on a variety of topics specific to Maryland and the mid-Atlantic region, as well as a monthly gardening calendar and a newsletter are also available on that site.

An extensive variety of ferns, wildflowers, grasses, hedges, shrubs and trees are native to Western Maryland and can do well in a home garden or landscape, depending on the specific site’s light, moisture and soil. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s Chesapeake Bay Field Office, Native Plant Center is a good starting point: www.nativeplantcenter.net. As is the Maryland Plant Atlas, which indicates which species are native to each county in Maryland – www.marylandplantatlas.org.

She also recommends adding compost and soil amendments to the soil to keep it healthy.

“Get your soil tested every year; it’s not expensive and you can find testers just by researching online. (Note: The University of Maryland no longer has a soil testing lab, but the University Extension’s Home & Garden Center website – see below – has a list of labs). Also, buy good quality, fresh seeds.” Zimmerman recommends purveyors, but on top of her list are Johnny’s Selected Seeds, “hands down, the best resource;” The Gardeners Workshop, “a great mid-Atlantic resource;” and Baker

Residents who want more personalized, direct assistance with their gardens, landscapes or container gardens, have access to their own team. Each county has a horticulture educator (the Master Gardener Coordinator), who oversees trained volunteer Master Gardeners dedicated to helping residents grow healthy gardens. The Washington County Master Gardener Coordinator is Annette Cormany, email: acormany@ umd.edu; phone: 301791-1604. Other county Master Gardener Coordinators can be found online at extension.umd.edu/ locations.

Butterfly Milkweed, aka Butterflyweed (Asclepias tuberosa) with Eastern Tiger Swallowtail

Native plants are the best choice for gardeners interested in conservation landscaping, but care does need to be taken to protect them from invasive insects and deer. For more gardening tips check out mdflora.org/gardening. If you choose to add non-native plants to your garden, be certain they are not “exotic invasive” species, such as burning bush, butterfly bush, English ivy, purple loosestrife, or periwinkle, because these species can outcompete native species, disrupt local food webs, harm the economy and human health, and reduce regional biodiversity. For more information, visit mdflora. org/aboutinvasives.html.

– PAULETTE LEE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF WESTERN MOUNTAINS CHAPTER OF MARYLAND NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY

PHOTO BY PAULETTE LEE

Shopkeeper:

River Bottom Roasters and Free Range Join Forces

Written by V. CRAIG CAMPBELL JR.

River Bottom Roasters and Free Range Café have joined forces to deliver an expansive list of craft beverages to the Hagerstown dining scene combined with tasty flavors of organic, unprocessed, natural foods, in a fast-casual environment.

With a synergized small-business-minded culture, giving back to the community through healthy eats and coffee not muddled with processed additives, the new partnership aims to bring a dining establishment to the Hagerstown area that delivers the purest ingredients.

Positively impacting the community both near and far sits at the root of both missions. RBR works closely with Sam Demisse from Keffa Coffee, who works directly with farms in Ethiopia to help improve the quality, sustainability and fair, equitable trade. Lisa Colon at International Coffee Trading and their women’s health initiative, delivers health care to women in coffee farming areas. Free Range works with local farms for sourcing chicken, breads, eggs, and other fresh ingredients. The impact from this partnership’s benefits will be felt both locally and internationally.

Since combining forces, Free Range Café & Coffee Co. has expanded their online offering of specialty coffees, allowing customers to log on and order up a quick cup that’s ready when they arrive. Pair that with any of their seasonal wraps, bowls, overnight oats, smoothie bowls… and the list goes on.

Today Free Range Cafe is now known as Free Range Café & Coffee Co and this Motley Crew of entrepreneurs are making the world and human biome a better place.

V. Craig Campbell Jr. is the head roaster/owner at River Bottom Roasters.

Refresh Your Finances This Spring

Written by JACOB W. BARR

As spring arrives once more, it’s time for spring cleaning, sprucing up the yard and gardens, working around the house, and the many other things that we do this time of year. One other thing we should be doing is looking over our finances and seeing what we can do to clean them up and refresh them as well.

A good place to start is to review your spending and see if it fits within your budget. Knowing where your money is going, and what it is being spent on is a very important piece of keeping your finances in order. Another thing to look at is the emergency reserves you have. If you don’t have emergency savings, know that you are not alone in that department – over half of Americans don’t have enough set aside to cover a $500 unexpected expense. One way to get an emergency reserve account started is to setup an automatic deposit from each paycheck, just like one would for a retirement account. This process builds up your emergency reserves automatically, without having to add one more thing to your list of “to-dos”. Having a solid budget and setting aside money for both retirement and emergency reserves is one of the best ways to reach your financial goals.

As we clean the house and throw things out, try working on throwing away your debt. Debt is like having all those things around the house taking up space that you don’t really need.

While you may not be able to pay down all your debt right away, assess the debt you have, and prioritize paying down higher-interest rate debt first, like consumer credit cards. Once you finish one area of debt, work on the next, and stay disciplined. Cleaning up your debt is a great way to move forward towards your financial goals.

If you started the new year with a raise at work, received an above-normal bonus, or if you’ve already gotten a tax return and it was a good one, most likely you have begun thinking about how to spend that extra money. And while it is good to enjoy life, before spending it on a new vehicle or a summer vacation, consider setting a portion aside for your retirement accounts. By doing so, you will be able to let that money work for you over years to come and have that much more in retirement years. And speaking of tax refunds, if you got a larger than normal refund, you may be withholding too much from your paycheck. Speak with your accountant to see if there are changes you can make.

Another thing to spruce up this spring is the estate plan. Check on beneficiaries to ensure that they are still accurate and how we would like them. Things change from year

to year, and you may need to adjust things if life brought major changes, like getting married or having a child. Additionally, we ensure that other crucial parts of an estate plan are accurate, like power-of-attorney, a will, and a healthcare directive. It is also a good time to look at any insurance needs or changes. If you have people who depend on you for income, it’s wise to review your coverage and make sure that you have the right amount of insurance based on your specific needs and goals.

While you are doing all this financial cleaning, it might make sense for you to get the help of an expert. There are benefits to having a second opinion when it comes to your financial future, and it can be reassuring to hear that things are on track, or if they are not, what you can do to get them on track. Whether it is an accountant to help with tax concerns and issues, or a financial advisor to help with investment and retirement planning, a second look can be helpful. Especially during volatile times in the economy, a little reassurance can go a long way and help avoid making a decision that could have detrimental impacts down the road.

Everyone has a different idea of what they want their financial future to be, but we can all start working towards that future today.

Jacob W. Barr, AAMS, is a financial advisor at Raymond James Financial Services, 140 Paul Smith Blvd. in Hagerstown.

The foregoing information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete, it is not a statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision, and it does not constitute a recommendation. Any opinions are those of Jacob Barr and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Every investor’s situation is unique, and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance and time horizon before making any investment. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.

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

Spring into Savings

How Your Library Can Help You Bloom this Season

As the weather warms up and the days get longer, many of us are looking for ways to get out and enjoy the spring season without breaking the bank. Fortunately, Washington County Free Library is a great resource to help us all explore, discover and save money while making the most of this time of year.

Instead of swiping your credit card, use your library card to borrow books, movies and other materials. The library has everything from new releases to old favorites. Our recently updated online catalog system makes exploring the options even easier. WCFL’s catalog can now be accessed using any device, has side-by-side comparisons of the formats and locations of available items, and includes more options for bookmarking items, creating reading lists, and saving searches.

In addition to borrowing books and movies, the library is also a great place to learn new skills and try out

new hobbies. If you’re like me, you might have a habit of getting excited about a new project and leaving a wake of unused supplies or half-finished projects. The library offers workshops, classes and other events that can teach you everything from gardening to cooking to crafting. Attend a free program to finish a quick guided project alongside others who share similar interests. This is a great way to avoid ending up with, say, a cabinet full of candle-making supplies that you just had to have and swear you’ll get around to using one of these days.... I’m talking from personal experience on this one! Try out the project or learn a bit more about the hobby at the library, then invest in your own supplies.

Another way to save with the library is to take advantage of technological resources. We offer free access to computers and Wi-Fi and have other equipment that can be expensive to purchase on your own, like printers and copiers. This can be especially valuable if you’re looking for a job or starting a new business this spring. Did your printer at home run out of ink at the last minute just before a big meeting? Of course it did! The library is here to save the day (and some dollars) for you, so swing by and print those last few documents you need on your way there.

Washington County Free Library’s branches throughout the county are a great place to start as you look to save money, find books and movies, learn new skills, and try new things during the spring season. Come visit us and explore the possibilities for yourself!

Sarah Nadeau is the head of public relations at the Washington County Free Library.

Written by Sarah Nadeau

OUTDOOR PARADISE

Enjoying the great outdoors includes your own backyard

Compiled by Joseph Ritacco

Hardscaping, landscaping and waterscaping projects can add beauty, practicality and even a dramatic oasis to almost any backyard. Here, Kingdom Landscaping demonstrates and describes the creativity and expert workmanship that can bring new ideas to a backyard space and enliven your own property.

Family-owned-and-operated, Kingdom Landscaping, founded in 1995 by Tom and Jodi Tyler, is a business dedicated to creative design in the tri-state area of Maryland, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Tom and Jodi are personally involved in every project from start to finish, and all five of their children are actively involved in the business in some capacity. They can be reached at 301-416-0033 or via email at KingdomLandscape@aol.com.

Located in Sabillasville, Md., this project, installed in September 2019, includes EP Henry quarry steps, a cast stone retaining wall, and an Old Towne Cobble paver walkway. The house was situated at the top of a steep hill and the front yard had a sharp drop off. An area across the front of the house had to be built up and leveled in order to install a paver walkway and then build a set of steps and retaining wall to meet up with the basement entrance on the side of the house.

Pavers: EP Henry Old Towne Cobble 6x6/6x9 “I”

Pattern in Dakota Blend with Charcoal 6x9 Border Wall Block: EP Henry Cast Stone Cut Stone Aspen Retaining Wall with Chapeau 16 Bluestone wall caps

Steps: EP Henry Quarry Steps in Bluestone

Local Product Distributor: Sunny Meadows Garden Center

Installed in 2020 at Spring Ridge in Frederick, Md., this project included a paver patio (overlay on concrete), fire pit patio with sitting wall, and a walkway. The homeowners had an existing concrete patio that was unappealing and started to get some hairline cracks. They had built a small fire pit themselves in the yard away from the patio but decided that they wanted to make that area more permanent and hire a professional to do the work. It was suggested that they overlay the existing concrete with pavers and connect the two areas together for a seamless transition.

Pavers: EP Henry Bristol Stone Sonoran 6-Piece Random pattern with Forma Stone Border in Sand and Charcoal

Wall Block: EP Henry Coventry Wall Dakota Blend with Coventry Pewter Wall Cap

Fire Pit: EP Henry Fire Pit Kit in Dakota Blend

Local Product Distributor: Sunny Meadows Garden Center

Located in Black Rock Estates in Hagerstown, Md., this project, completed in September 2021, included a sunken fire pit patio with a customer planter box, as well as an upper raised patio, sitting walls, pillars, steps, a walkway, LED lighting and patio pond. The homeowners desired an outdoor living space where they could relax and unwind. The design of this project had several grade/elevation changes that needed to be addressed. The yard sloped not only away from the house but also toward the neighbor’s yard. Because the sunken fire pit area was surrounded by sitting walls, it needed to have a proper drainage system underneath the patio along with a permeable paver system to facilitate drainage to the stone base underneath. The homeowners also desired an upper patio, but to accomplish that it needed to be separated by a custom garden planter box that would act as a retaining wall and barrier between the two grade changes in the sloped yard.

Pavers: EP Henry Trilogy “Sun Valley” three-piece random pattern with Chiseled Stone 6x9 “Charcoal” accents

Wall Block: EP Henry Cast Stone Cut Stone “Birch” with Belmont “Bluestone” caps, stair treads, and pier caps on pillars

LED Lighting: Integral

Patio Pond: Aquascape Inc.

Local Product Distributor: Sunny Meadows Garden Center

Located in Fairplay, Md., this project, completed in May 2021, included an outdoor kitchen and paver patio with sitting walls featuring a custom paver inlay design. The kitchen included a bar with a footrest, built-in electrical outlets, a grill enclosure, cabinet storage, and a refrigerator, sink and pergola.

The homeowners’ dream for many years was to have an outdoor kitchen where she can cook and celebrate life with her family and 14 grandkids. She wanted an area that would have seating for at least 10 people, which was accomplished by combining the usage of sitting walls, a large patio table and a bar area. As a bonus, a custom paver inlay design on the inside of the cooking area was included. The location for the outdoor kitchen was in the backyard, which had a slight slope, so a retaining wall was required on two sides with additional drainage to direct water runoff away from and around the outdoor kitchen patio area. In addition, when designing and building a custom hardscape kitchen, all appliances must be on site so the wall block can be custom cut for a perfect fit. The homeowners also purchased a pergola, which required concrete piers to be installed underneath the patio for anchoring the four posts.

Pavers: EP Henry Bristol Stone Sonoran 6-piece random pattern with 6x9 Old Towne Cobble Charcoal border.

Wall Block: EP Henry Terrace Wall Dakota Blend 3” and 6” multipiece pattern with 3” Dakota Blend rectangle cap

Countertop: Granite

Appliances: Provided by homeowner (grill, refrigerator, sink, cabinet, pizza oven)

Local Hardscape Distributor: Sunny Meadows Garden Center

This family loves its Bernese Mountain dogs: Bella, Bear, and Nanna, and these dogs love the water. When they recently moved to a beautiful home in the Catoctin Mountains, they would take Bear and Nanna hiking to local streams so they could play in the water. This became a regular pastime, and they wondered if they could provide their dogs with their own personal backyard stream and pond. In the beginning, they were considering a small pondless waterfall, but after an initial consultation, Mr. Bristor countered, “Go Big, or Go Home!” Installed in August 2020 in Smithsburg, Md., this feature holds 6,000 gallons of water and recirculates 23,000 gallons of water per hour through three waterfall spillways and the wetland filtration system, which is housed beneath the pond thus protecting the liner from the dogs playing in 12” to 16” of water. A beach edge was created so the Bear and Nanna could enter and exit the pond easily. Nanna considers the goldfish as her pets and follows them around endlessly. The Bristors also hosted their son’s wedding at their home, and the professional photographer chose the waterfalls as the background for many pictures. The pond is affectionately named “Bella Falls” as a memorial to Bella, who passed away before the couple moved to their new home.

Specifications: 18’ x 24’ Pond with Wetland Filtration System, Intake Bay/Skim Cove, and three 14’ – 16’ meandering streams with waterfalls and LED underwater lighting.

Products: Aquascape components including large and small AquaBlox, waterfall pump vaults, waterfall spillways, one 2,000 gph pump for wetland filtration, three 7,000 gph pumps for each waterfall, underwater LED lighting, underlayment, 45 mil EPDM liner, as well as boulders, gravel, aquatic plants, fish, moss, driftwood and landscaping.

Distributors: Turf Equipment & Supply – Aquascape Components

Sunny Meadows Garden Center – River Gravel

Homeowner – Boulders on Site

Completed in June 2022 at the Smithsburg Emergency Services location in Smithsburg, Md., this Aquascape pond (8’ X 11’) with a waterfall and stream, as well as a custom skim cove with bubbling rock fountain. The location had an existing goldfish pond that had not been maintained properly and had poor water quality and filtration issues. The office considered removing the pond altogether because it had become an eyesore and was no longer a source of tranquility and beauty, but opted instead to dismantle it, re-design the system and build a new Aquascape ecosystem pond in its place. Sunny Meadows Garden Center provided the Aquascape components, Rentals Unlimited donated a mini-excavator, and Ivy Hill Farm in Smithsburg donated plants for the exterior landscaping.

Products: Aquascape Pond Components including 2500 series Biofall, 45 mil EPDM liner, underlayment, AquaBlox, Waterfall Vault, Pump, boulders, and river gravel.

Local Product Distributor: Sunny Meadows Garden

Located in Fairfield, Pa., this Aquascape pondless waterfall, installed in May 2020, takes advantage of a natural hill landscape, and offers a water view to a recently retired homeowner who spent over 40 years in the Coast Guard. The pondless waterfall option is low maintenance and provides the relaxing sound of running water plus the natural beauty of waterfalls. The homeowners were pleasantly surprised by how realistic it looks, and the beauty of the lighting at night. The approved design was meant to blend with the existing landscaping.

Specifications: 22’ long x 6’ wide meandering stream with several waterfall cascades installed in an existing steep front yard bank.

Products: Aquascape components including large AquaBlox, Waterfall Vault, 5K-9K SLD Smart Pump, Underlayment, 45 mil EPDM liner, Underwater LED Lights, Boulders, River Gravel, and Aquatic Plants.

Distributors: Turf Equipment & Supply – Aquascape components Sunny Meadows Garden Center –boulders, river gravel and aquatic plants

Touring the Gardens of Maryland

Spring is in bloom at these dazzling destination spots

“Dotted throughout the property, Ladew’s topiary excellence knows no bounds and includes more than 100 larger-than-life topiaries.”

Emily Emerick, Executive Director of Ladew Topiary Garden

Written by Linda Harkcom

Ladew Topiary Gardens

Located North of Baltimore, Ladew Topiary Gardens of Monkton, Md., has 22 acres of gardens that were artfully designed and developed by Harvey S. Ladew (1887-1976). Executive Director of the Ladew Topiary Gardens, Emily Emerick, says 50,000 people tour the gardens each year.

According to its website, these gardens and the historic fully restored Manor House are known throughout the world. They have been named “One of the Top 5 Gardens in North America,” and deemed “the most outstanding topiary garden in America” by the Garden Club of America. The gardens have also been featured as one of “Ten incredible topiary gardens around the world” by Architectural Digest

COURTESY OF LADEW TOPIARY GARDENS

The main attraction at Ladew Gardens is the massive, artful and countless topiaries positioned throughout the property.

Spring and summer are the perfect times to get outside and enjoy all nature has to offer. Garden tours are a great way to do just that, and there are several locations within a short drive that offer a variety of natural delights.

“Our most popular attractions at Ladew Gardens are the massive, artful topiaries. Dotted throughout the property, Ladew’s topiary excellence knows no bounds and includes more than 100 larger-than-life topiaries,” Emerick says. “This season, we have trimmed more topiaries than ever before, and guests will find new designs in several of the garden rooms.”

The topiaries are the centerpieces of the gardens and define a series of garden “rooms,” which Emerick says Ladew Topiary Gardens is celebrated and admired for.

Sherwood Gardens

Located in Northern Baltimore City, Md., in the center of the Registered Historic District known as Guilford, lies Sherwood Gardens. This privately owned community park, originally called Stratford Green, is renowned for its annual tulip display, created in the 1920s by John W. Sherwood.

“Many thousands of people from near and far visit Sherwood Gardens annually. Visitors come from the local community, other states and other countries, drawn by Sherwood Garden’s reputation for its annual tulip display. We plant up to 70,000 new tulip bulbs imported from Holland each year,” says Margaret Alton, trustee, Stratford Green Inc.

When creating the garden, Sherwood adhered to Olmsted Design Principles by utilizing native plants, rare trees and flowering shrubs that that complimented his tulips.

“The entire Olmsted designed Park is the attraction. It is an enjoyable place just to be, no matter the season. And it is a beautiful scene to observe. The long view highlights Olmstedian principles displaying serpentine flower beds, long vistas and ‘living rooms,’ all of which inspires a sense of pleasure, peace and camaraderie,” Alton says.

Alton, describes Stratford Green, is an oasis of beautiful green space year-round.

“In addition to tulips and summer flowers, the Park provides open spaces for gatherings, to just sit and read or to have a leisurely walk. And it is free,” Alton says.

Alton explains that the park, and its beautiful gardens, are private, yet open to the public without a fee.

“This amazing Park in Baltimore City is 100 percent privately funded. There is no public funding of any kind.

“The layout is organized into specific themed sections with perfectly planned blooms and foliage. Garden Rooms include newly-renovated Woodland Garden, Victorian Garden, Pink Garden, Yellow Garden, Garden of Eden, Water Lily Garden, Sculpture Garden, Iris Garden and many more,” Emerick says.

She explains that these Garden Rooms are ever-changing and transforming each day.

“Each time you visit Ladew, you have an entirely different experience which truly keeps our visitors and members coming back,” Emerick says.

She says the “rooms” are one of the many aspects for which the destination is most known.

“We’re also known for our robust programming and community involvement. There’s something for everyone,” Emerick says.

Admission to the gardens and manor home is $17 for adults, $12 for seniors (62+) and students, $5 for children (2-12) and free for children under 2. The garden is open April 1 through Oct. 31. Check www.ladewgardens.com for hours and more information.

We never tire of thanking all the people who so generously support this beautiful space for others to enjoy,” Alton says. For more information on Sherwood Gardens, Alton recommends visiting its website, www.sherwoodgardens.org.

Left, Sherwood Gardens during its April tulip bloom. Below, Summer flower bloom in Sherwood Gardens provides the ideal setting for visitors to gather for a scenic afternoon picnic. COURTESY OF THE GUILFORD ASSOCIATION

The stately manor house stands watch over the Ladew Topiary Gardens. COURTESY OF LADEW TOPIARY GARDENS

Brookside Gardens and McCrillis Gardens

Montgomery County features two public gardens that are both free and open to the public year-round.

Brookside Gardens, a facility of Montgomery Parks, the MarylandNational Capital Park and Planning Commission, is located in Wheaton Regional Park in Wheaton, Md. The award-winning 50-acre public display garden hosts about 1.1 million visitors a year, according to Stephanie Oberle, director of Brookside Gardens.

“Brookside Gardens is so popular because it is beautiful, accessible and always changing. The curated plant collections and beautiful landscapes make Brookside Gardens a regional and national destination for folks from outside the area, and as the place to take your guests from out of town. For the locals, Brookside Gardens is the most beautiful next-door garden for everyone to share. And for those who want to learn more about horticulture, we offer a variety of programs, events and classes for learners of all ages and abilities,” Oberle says.

The Brookside Gardens have several distinct areas including Aquatic Garden, Azalea Garden, Butterfly Garden, Children’s Garden, Rose Garden, Japanese Style Garden, Trial Garden, Rain Garden and the Woodland Walk. The Formal Gardens areas encompass a Perennial Garden, Yew Garden, the Maple Terrace, and Fragrance Garden. Oberle says that seasonally, Brookside Gardens’ flower displays are the most popular attraction, especially the spring tulip display in April, the azaleas in May and roses in June.

“Our visitors love the colorful and fragrant flowers and take many pictures with their families and friends. Brookside Gardens is a popular destination for weddings and other social events, when the Gardens become the backdrop for a lifetime of memories,” Oberle says.

Brookside Gardens is open every day from sunrise to sunset with no admission fee. For those wishing to

make Brookside Gardens host a special event there, Oberle recommends visiting its website, www.brookside gardens.org, to learn more about available sites and fees.

McCrillis Gardens is a naturalistic garden located within a residential neighborhood in Bethesda, Md. The

five-acre property was donated to the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission in 1978 by William and Virginia McCrillis and is managed by Brookside Gardens.

“McCrillis Gardens is a little oasis in the suburbs, yet rich with a variety of unusual shade-loving trees and shrubs. At five acres, it’s just large enough to wander and explore. We have some particularly nice azaleas and flowering trees, which folks in the DC area look to for inspiration for their own gardens at home,” Oberle says.

According to the website, the Gardens feature paths that wind through ornamental trees and shrubs. It also includes bulbs, ground covers and shade-loving perennials that offer color and texture year-round.

“Our visitors are attracted to the quiet greenness of McCrillis Gardens, whether it’s a nook to sit and read a book or a short ramble through the garden. There’s a peacefulness there that surrounds you,” Oberle says.

There is no parking on site, so Oberle suggests that visitors should be prepared to park on the street and walk into McCrillis Gardens. The gardens open daily from 10 a.m. to sunset. For more information on McCrillis Gardens, visit montgomeryparks.org.

At Brookside Gardens, the Perennial Garden is just one of many distinct areas to admire the beauty of nature.

COURTESY OF BROOKSIDE GARDENS

The spring tulip display at Brookside Gardens starts in April, followed by an azaleas display in May, and roses in June. COURTESY OF BROOKSIDE GARDENS

Washington County Commission on Aging’s New SeniorFit Building Opening Soon

Written by Susan Hurd & Tim Fisher

The Senior Activities Center is expanding both in terms of membership and physical size, driven by the growing demand for its services. In response, the organization is proud to announce the upcoming opening of the new SeniorFit building. The new facility is specifically designed with the needs of aging adults in mind, featuring gym equipment with safety features that accommodate the hips and knees of older individuals. In addition, the building offers various amenities for independent members of the community who are 55 or older. This expansion is a testament to the commitment of the Senior Activities Center to serving its members and supporting active and healthy aging.

How is SeniorFit different from other gyms?

SeniorFit is a gym that caters to the unique needs and requirements of older adults. Unlike conventional gyms, the equipment at SeniorFit is designed with the aging body in mind, ensuring that members can exercise safely and comfortably. The gym offers personalized instruction on how to use each piece of equipment, so that members can make the most of their workout. In addition to SeniorFit, our no-cost sign-up provides members with a diverse range of activities, classes and support services, all of which are customized to meet the needs of older adults. These services can be accessed through the Senior Center, making it a one-stop destination for seniors looking to stay active and healthy.

Why is it important for seniors to exercise regularly?

The CDC states that physical activity can offer numerous health benefits, particularly for those with hypertension. Regular exercise has been proven to lower blood pressure in some individuals living with hypertension. Furthermore, it can help alleviate joint pain related to arthritis and improve overall physical fitness, including increasing muscle strength and stamina. Exercise has also been linked to reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression and an improved mood and sense of well-being. It can also help aging bodies maintain strong bones, muscles and joints, reducing the risk of falls and fractures. In addition, regular physical activity can decrease the likelihood of dying from coronary artery disease, developing hypertension, colon cancer or diabetes.

All members are strongly encouraged to speak with their physician before beginning any new exercise regimen.

Be on the lookout for the upcoming Grand Opening of the New SeniorFit building and plan to join us for the celebration! For more information about classes and times, refer to the Senior Activities Calendar at wccoaging.org.

Susan Hurd is an RSVP Project Manager, Guardianship Care Manager and Community Educator for the Washington County Commission on Aging in Hagerstown.

Tim Fisher is the Chief Development Officer for the Washington County Commission on Aging.

Summer Camp for Seniors

Written by Paulette Lee

Iwent to “away” summer camp every summer from about the ages of seven to 12. I learned to ride and care for a horse, shoot a bow and arrow, shoot a target pistol, light a campfire and identify trees and plants at summer camp. I learned songs I still remember, how to braid strips of plastic into keyrings, how to row a boat on a lake and most importantly, how to function (well, at least survive) in a group social setting. Having never been particularly athletic or “outdoorsy,” I hated summer camp – and I loved it.

If you’re nostalgic for the traditional summer camp experience (or want it for the first time), local communities may have what you’re looking for. For example, the City of Sacramento’s 50+ Wellness Program has been hosting a short-week summer camp in California’s Eldorado National Forest since 1920. Its “Arts and Adventure in the Sierras” summer camp is designed especially for older people. Your local parks and recreation department or senior center may offer something similar, as might your local YM/WCA or church. Star Lake Lodge in Bloomingdale, N.J., has five and eight-day summer sessions for active, older adults with options to participate in a banquet, auction, variety show, tournaments, crafts, movies, daily Bible studies, health education, and/or the choir – or just sit and read and relax. The Clemson University Outdoor Lab on Lake Hartwell in Pendleton, S.C., has summer programs with a variety of activities, including overnight camping, archery, canoeing, swimming, arts and crafts, drama, sailing, nature and more. If you like the idea of being more inter-generational and participating in as many or as few traditional (and some nontraditional) camp activities, check out Camp Bonfire, headquartered in Philadelphia, Pa., or Camp Grounded, with weekend camps in North Carolina, California, Texas and New York; both camps are for adults of all ages.

What I loved about summer camp was trying new things (for me it was all about the horses) and there are plenty of opportunities for adults – including older adults – to do that, as well, under the loosely-defined heading of “camp.” There are cooking retreats, painting holidays, language getaways, sports and physical fitness camps, music and singing camps, drama camps…in fact, you name it (as in, you define the internet search terms), you probably can find it. There one catch, though, may be the cost: special interest “camps” are not cheap, they typically don’t run for as long as two weeks, and you may have to purchase special equipment or supplies.

They also may not include lodging and meals, and if it’s a true traditional camp setting, the living conditions may be rough (as in NOT a “bed and breakfast”) and may be in a high altitude.

Of course, you could always just set up a tent in the backyard, light a campfire and roast some s’mores while singing “Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh (A Letter from Camp).”

Paulette Lee is a former award-winning broadcast journalist and retired nonprofit and international development communications consultant. She lives in Hagerstown, MD and hosts the audio podcast, “WomanWorthy: Real Talk About Real Issues for Women Over 60” online at womanworthy.podbean. com, or on most podcast apps.

How Can Help Improve Your Mental Health

Written by Teresa Coda, M.Div

If you have ever been in therapy, read a self-help book or engaged in some sort of religious or spiritual practice, chances are that you have heard of mindfulness. But even if you recognize the term, you may still be unclear about the what, why and how of mindfulness. Considering the abundance of research on the benefits of mindfulness, it’s worth learning more, and perhaps integrating a mindfulness practice into your life.

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is the marriage of awareness and acceptance. It is paying attention – awareness – to your thoughts, emotions, physical sensations and actions as you are experiencing them without trying to change them and without passing judgement on yourself or your expe -

rience in the process – acceptance

In the words of popular self-care slogans, mindfulness is “being in the moment.” At any given instant in our lives, our minds and bodies receive a plethora of stimulation in the form of sights, sounds, smells, thoughts and feelings. When we practice mindfulness, we pay conscious attention to noticing the stimuli without trying to interpret, alter, or eliminate them.

For instance, as you drive home from work after a long and frustrating day, you may find yourself replaying a conversation with a coworker in your mind while simul -

taneously writing a mental grocery list – and, oh! don’t forget to fill out that permission slip for your daughter’s class field trip on Friday – at the same time as you massage your tense neck with the hand that isn’t holding the steering wheel.

Integrating mindfulness into this scene wouldn’t change the fact that you had a frustrating day at work or that you have tasks still to be completed at home, but the car ride could look a bit different. Instead of your body and your mind being in two very different places – thus exacerbating your suffering in the moment – you would be taking deep, calming breaths and noticing the sights and sounds on the road as you pass by. A worried or agitated thought might enter your mind (no one is 100 percent mindful all the time), which you would acknowledge and accept, and then try to let go, returning your attention back to

the

present moment.

Why Mindfulness is Useful

Why is it so valuable to be mentally present and mindful of your sensory and internal experiences as they happen to you? It turns out that there are quite a few benefits to mindfulness.

• Mindfulness practice strengthens your ability to focus on one thing at a time, and as it does, it may curb and soothe overwhelming emotions. For instance, noticing the colors of the leaves on the trees instead of letting your mind be consumed by resentment over a co-worker’s behavior will serve to regulate your emotions.

• Being mindful can help you more fully enjoy the pleasurable aspects of life as they occur.

• Mindfulness can help improve physical health in a variety of ways, including lowering blood pressure, reducing chronic pain, improving sleep, and alleviating gastrointestinal difficulties.

• By grounding you in the present moment, mindfulness can make you less likely to ruminate on the past or worry about the future.

How to Practice Mindfulness

Like any beneficial behavior or life skill, mindfulness does not come easily or click into place effortlessly. Mindfulness practice is referred to as just that – practice – because it takes practice. The good news is that there are many activities and tools that are aimed to help individuals begin to practice mindfulness, one exercise at a time.

Here are a few ideas of places to start:

• Mindful breathing: A central component of mindfulness involves focused breathing. There are many ways to breathe mindfully, and one of them is often referred to as box breathing. Box breathing involves inhaling to a count of four, holding air in your lungs for a count of four, exhaling for another four-count, and then holding your lungs empty to the count of four. It’s simple but the rewards of this prac-

tice are significant. Focusing on the rising, falling, and counting of your breath can ground you in the present moment when you are distracted by your thoughts and feelings – it’s hard to replay old conversations and make worry lists when you are actively counting numbers. On top of that, this kind of breathing forces you to take slower, fuller, and deeper breaths, which decreases stress and heightens relaxation in the moment.

• Focus on a single object: For this exercise, choose an object in your surrounding that is small enough for you to hold. Find a comfortable place to sit where you won’t be disturbed and set a timer for five minutes. During those five minutes, direct all of your attention to the chosen object. First, observe the object with your eyes: what does the surface of the object look like? Is it colorful or muted? Shiny or dull? Smooth or rough? Does it appear heavy or light? Soft or hard? After a few minutes, pick up the object and begin noticing the way it feels: is it varied or uniform in texture? How heavy or light is it? What is the temperature? Is it smooth or rough? Keep your focus on the object until the timer goes off, redirecting your attention to the object as you become distracted.

• Mindfully eating a Hershey Kiss: You can mindfully eat any food item, but to practice the skill, I recom-

mend starting with something small and delightful…like a Hershey Kiss! To mindfully eat a Hershey Kiss, take your time unwrapping the piece of chocolate: pay attention to the smoothness of the kiss, the crinkliness of the foil wrapper, and the light weight of the candy in your hand. Smell the chocolate before putting it into your mouth, detecting layers of scent below the obvious chocolate one. Then, as you place the kiss in your mouth, work your way through the senses: how does it taste? Smell? Feel? Is there sound involved in eating the kiss? You’ll never enjoy a Hershey Kiss as much as when you mindfully eat it!

Other Mindfulness Resources

If you are interested in integrating a mindfulness practice into your life and would like to learn more, there are many resources and tools available to help. Here are just a few:

• Podcasts: Some mindfulness podcasts – like Mindfulness Mode– offer interviews and information to help you learn more about mindfulness, while others – like the Rubin Museum Mindfulness Meditation Podcast – guide you through mindfulness exercises.

• Apps: Apps like Headspace, Calmand Healthy Minds Program (to name a few of many) provide everything from guided meditation sessions to flexible meditation timers to educational courses on mindfulness practice.

• Websites: Sites including Mindful, Mindfulness Exercises, and Smiling Mind (great for kids), provide a wealth of resources for people in all stages of the mindfulness journey.

Teresa Coda, M.Div is an MSW intern providing therapy services in the outpatient program at Brook Lane’s North Village location. She has a background in hospital chaplaincy and looks forward to getting licensed as a social worker when she graduates in May 2023.

Written by Sandie Lynch

For years studies have shown that all diets that provide a calorie deficit leads to weight loss. Unfortunately, most individuals do not follow a diet long-term and the result is weight regain. According to the CDC, the US obesity prevalence was approximately 41.9% between 2017-2020 using NHANES data from 2021. During this time frame obesity prevalence increased from 30.5% to 41.9% and severe obesity increased from 4.7% to 9.2%.

The Secret to Losing More Weight on Any Diet

Multiple studies show that following a diet with higher fiber improves diet adherence long term and thus allows individuals to lose more weight over time. Therefore, adding food fiber of different types appears to be the secret to losing more weight. Fiber is defined by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) as “non-digestible”, a carbohydrate or lignin which bypasses digestion in the small intestine and is partially or completely fermented in the large intestine or colon.

When surveyed, about half of adults report they have made efforts to lose weight in the past year but the attempts are often unsuccessful with only 20% of adults losing greater than 10% of their initial body weight. The primary reason for the lack of success was diet adherence and slipping back into old habits.

Research by Derek C. Miketinas, et al. in The Journal of Nutrition found that dietary fiber intake,

apart from macronutrient levels of protein, carbohydrates, or fat, promotes weight loss and diet adherence in adults who have a BMI in overweight or obese levels when following a calorie-restricted diet. The individuals in this study met their fiber goals of approximately 20 to 25 gms of fiber a day by adding whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Individuals increased their fiber intake over a period of 6 months from approximately 15 gms a day to 25 gms.

Most Americans consume significantly lower levels of fiber, approximately 15 gms a day, than recommended by the American Healthy Guidelines of 25 gms to 38 gms for women and men aged 19 to 50 years respectively. The ultra-processed foods typical of the American diet are very low in natural dietary fiber and lack the benefits food fiber provides.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Elena Jovanovki and colleagues found that viscous or soluble fiber more than insoluble fiber had

the potential to promote weight loss along with other benefits. Noted in the analysis are a strong historical association between eating cereal fibers and lower body weight, and that viscous soluble fibers not only assist with greater weight loss but also have additional health benefits such as improved glycemic control, lipid levels, and blood pressure. This is most likely why the American Diabetes Association advises eating greater than 50 gms of fiber a day to reap significant cardiometabolic benefits.

Below are contributing factors of how viscous fibers assist with more weight loss by creating a feeling of fullness and decreasing consumption:

• Increases viscosity of the gut contents, creating a gel-like consistency

• Causes the stomach to expand sending an earlier fullness signal to the brain

• Delays stomach emptying, slowing and reducing consumption

• Lowers the resulting glucose spike and insulin released since fiber slows the digestion of food

• Modulates appetitesuppressing hormones Therefore, when following any type of dietary pattern for weight loss the primary

factors for greater success are, 1. Ensure there is a calorie deficit, 2. Consume a variety of plant foods that naturally contain viscous soluble fibers, 3. Don’t give up just include the following foods to improve diet adherence.

• Whole grains; oats barley, rye, maize, wheat, triticale, brown rice, and sorghum

• Beans, lentils, and peas

• Fruits and vegetables

• Tubers and root vegetables

• Nuts and seeds

• Mushrooms and seaweeds

If you want guidance on how to lose weight and keep it off, please contact me for a 60-minute free consultation for greater success at Sandie@ ATPHealthandFitness.com or call 240-439-9927

Sandie Lynch is a registered dietician, fitness trainer, wellness and lifestyle medicine professional coach, and owner of ATP Wellbeing Consultants LLC. Attain Top Performance (ATP) in Life with health, fitness and spiritual connection. Contact her for a free 60-minute consultation session for three powerful steps toward greater sleep and health at Sandie@ ATPHealthandFitness.com or 240-439-9927.

Can you Live in the 18th Century?

Summer Camps at the Conococheague Institute

Written by Matthew Wedd

With the summer camp season approaching, the Conococheague Institute is pleased to announce a new and novel way for your children to experience history this summer.

Following on the heels of our award winning 2022 “Can You Live 18th Century” program where nine high school students lived 18th-century life on our 30-acre homestead, we have adapted the program to be a weeklong summer camp for 2023.

There will be different weeks for different age ranges so all can get involved in experiencing 18th-century life.

Cultural norms and clothing are an important building block for understanding history, and our costumed presenters will help the students try out some new fashions and feel like they’ve stepped back in time.

Throughout the camps participants will learn historic cooking techniques and enjoy the reward of eating something you have made by hand over a fire. From kneading bread and baking it straight in the oven, making your own butter or roasting meat over the fire, tasting the result of your own work is so rewarding.

Learn about different jobs and trades, and perform the hard work needed on a rural farmstead. The garden always needs lots of hands to help, and children in the 18th century were a major source of work for a frontier family. From laundry and spinning, to traders and hunters, the community was a diverse place and our summer camp experience will try to instill as many of these roles as possible.

An important part of history is how to have fun, and participants will learn to frolic colonial style with cards and chist, sports, song and dance around a bonfire. Party like it’s 1776!

At the Conococheague Institute we focus on telling everyone’s story, so we’ll also be exploring the differences between indigenous people and colonists in their food, medicine and hunting styles.

The Summer camps are currently slated for late June through July 2023 and you can find out more information by contacting CI at info@cimlg. org. Prices will vary based on sponsorships and discounts

will apply to CI members.

The Conococheague Institute is a 501(c)3 Non Profit located outside Mercersburg in Franklin County, Pa.

For more than 20 years, the Conococheague Institute has preserved the cultural and natural resources of Pennsylvania’s frontier, and educated the community on the importance of this heritage.

In recent years the focus on accessibility (with our grounds and trails open year round), and engaging hands-on programming has helped CI grow exponentially with CI being named Non-Profit of the Year and Educator of the Year in 2022 by the CVBA. The award-winning programs have created heavy booking seasons focused on 18th Century civilian life and natural conservation.

The grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk perfect for picnics, dog walkers and birders alike, with free historic programs every Saturday year round.

To become a member or learn more contact CI at info@ cimlg.org, 717-328-2800 or visit ww.cimlg.org

Matthew Wedd is executive director of The Conococheague Institute in Mercersburg.

For 2023, Leadership Washington County’s events and activities are back

Written by Tara Bockstanz

Leadership Washington County has been in full swing this winter for the first time since the pandemic began. In January, the City of Hagerstown regional team planned an informative and interesting day for their classmates. The day began at Brooke’s House Coffee and Chocolate where they heard from Kevin Simmers, founder of Brooke’s House – LWC Class of 2010 – #23. The class also heard from representatives of Gatekeepers, Ladders to Leaders, and Bester Community of Hope. The class then traveled to Hagerstown City Hall for several interesting presentations from former Mayor Emily Keller, current Mayor Tekesha Martinez, Shelley McIntire, Council Member – LWC Class of 2017 – #30. Class members participated in a fas-

cinating virtual reality simulation led by Ed Plummer, HPD, LWC Class of 2023 – #36.

Following the demonstration, Class #36 had the opportunity to learn about economic development in Hagerstown from the City of Hagerstown, Washington County Chamber of Commerce and The Greater Hagerstown Committee. Class #36 finished out its program day at Washington County Museum of Fine Arts with Mary Anne Burke, executive director, Washington County Arts Council, Leadership Hagerstown Class ‘92 – #5, Rodney Tissue, city engineer, Sarah Hall, executive director WCMFA, LWC Class of 2022 – #35. They then participated in a Walking Tour of the New Key Street Building followed by a Jonathan Hager House Presentation by Matthew Penrod, tour guide.

The day concluded with Tekesha Martinez, Council Member, sharing her remarkable poetry with LWC Class #36. It was a fully-packed, interesting and enlightening day.

On Jan. 25, Class #36 was able to travel for Washington County Day in Annapolis. The Class was able to participate in the day along with members from the Washington County Community Coalition. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from members of the Washington County State Delegation and influential leaders in Annapolis, including Adrienne Jones, Speaker of the MD House of Delegates, Senator Joanne Benson, Budget & Tax Committee and Brooke Lierman, Comptroller. Following these sessions in the Treasury Building, class members attended the Legislative Reception at the Calvert House.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LEADERSHIP WASHINGTON COUNTY

Class #36 traveled to Annapolis for Washington County Day in January.

LWC Graduate Members had an exclusive behind-the-scenes event on Feb. 9 at the Amazon facility located at 1115 Wesel Blvd. in Hagerstown. Graduates were able to tour the facilities and engage in a panel discussion with Amazon executives including Amazon site leader, Amazon operations manager, as well as executives focused on Economic Development, State and Local Public Policy, Community Engagement, and Workforce Development. Many connections were made between local organizations and Amazon. We hope that these associations will benefit Washington County in numerous ways.

In March, LWC Presents series was back, again for the first time since before the pandemic. Leadership Washington County also offered this unique opportunity to all graduates and current LWC class members. The topic of the series was the Future of Downtown with a focus on the Multi-Use Sports and Events Center. This topic was so popular for our Best Lunch Ever (November 2022) that LWC wanted to open the opportunity to a larger audience to attend the panel discussion. The panel included Greg Snook from CHIEF, Linda Ebersole from Downtown Baseball LLC and Dan Spedden from Visit Hagerstown. The panelists were able to give an inside look at how the stadium will positively impact Downtown Hagerstown’s economic development. The event was sponsored in-part by BCT and AmeriServ. We are looking forward to spring of 2024 when the first pitch will be thrown from home plate!

There are still a few days left to apply for LWC Class #37. Applications opened for the LWC Class of 2024 –#37 on Feb. 1 and will remain open until March 31. By mid-May, applicants will hear about their acceptance, and the new class will be announced in early July.

All graduates will have the opportunity to sign up as a new member or renew their membership on May 9 during Washington County Gives. Membership sign-up/renewal is discounted from $90 to $75 during Washington County Gives, and this is the link to bookmark: www.washingtoncountygives.org/organizations/leadership-washington-county.

LWC Graduate Members get an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Amazon facility in Hagerstown.

Class #36 learns about economic development from the City of Hagerstown, Washington County Chamber of Commerce and The Greater Hagerstown Committee.

Tara Bockstanz is the director of graduate engagement at Leadership Washington County.

at the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts Spring Has Sprung

Written by Crystal Schelle

Springtime is a beautiful reminder of renewal and the awakening of things that have hibernated underground throughout winter. At City Park Lake, outside of the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, we’ll soon be spotting goslings and the trees will be fully budding, to remind us that nothing stays the same.

In a way, spring reminds me of the museum. Just because you visited us when you were in elementary school or

slipped in to use our restrooms while enjoying a day in the park, chances are many of the items you saw on display that day are not on display now. And that’s exactly why it’s time to schedule a day to come for a visit.

It’s also a reason to try new things. Did you always want to learn how to paint? We can help! Want your child to experience an art-based summer camp? We have a camp for that!

Here are just a few exciting things we have lined up for the next few months, so plan your trip accordingly.

William Henry Singer Jr.’s work is the focus of Landscapes & Legends exhibition in May. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE WASHINGTON COUNTY MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS

EXHIBITIONS

The Cumberland Valley Artists Exhibition and Cumberland Valley Photographers Exhibition are currently on display until April 23. This juried exhibition features 95 pieces created by 85 artists and photographers from the Quad State area. This is a chance to see the incredible creativity of talented people from our area in not only photography, oils and acrylic paints but also mediums such as sculpture and quilting, to name but a few.

In May, we welcome a longtime Washington County tradition — two exhibitions that feature the artwork of area students. The Washington County Public Schools Elementary Art Exhibition is May 6-14. Then from May 20-28, the work of middle and high school students will be featured in the Washington County Public Schools Secondary Art Exhibition.

We will also open a special exhibition with local ties, Landscapes & Legends of Norway: William Singer & His Contemporaries. William Singer, along with his wife, Hagerstown native Anna Brugh Singer, were the museum’s founders. They spent several years living in Norway, which became a second home for them both. This exhibition celebrates William Singer’s love for his adopted countryside with an exhibition of his paintings.

CLASSES

We are constantly adding new classes to our lineup, but we offer an array of activities.

On Friday, March 31, yoga instructor Christa Angelo and Stephanie

Flores of Alchemy Yoga and Soul Empowerment will host a Spring Renewal Yoga and Sound Bath in the museum’s Kaylor Atrium. We had a nice crowd for our last class with the ladies. Participants will be guided through a gentle yoga flow for all experience levels, followed by a sound journey.

Cumberland Valley Artist winner Nancy Kautz will lead a watercolor workshop Saturday, April 1, at the museum. Kautz will guide participants through various watercolor techniques to create a pastoral landscape. $60; $50 members.

Cumberland Valley Artist David Bottini will lead a class on traditional landscape painting. Instruction includes two videos and two in-person classes, Saturdays, May 20 and June 3, at 2 p.m. Prior to first class, students must watch an instructional/introduction video, as well as choose a subject, take photos, develop sketches and prep canvases. Class 1: work with tra-

ditional layered approach, i.e. sketch, massing, underpainting. Second video covers the intermediate steps: color, glazing, building from the backward forward. Class 2: wrap up paintings, summary discussion/critique.

EVENT

Cumberland Valley Artists and Photographers Exhibition

Community Day will be Saturday, April 15. This free event celebrates the artists and photographers who are part of this special exhibition. The day will include an art vendor sale that features the work of those who were selected to be part of the exhibition. The event also features music and a beer tasting (for those 21 and older) by Thick-n-Thin Brewery of Hagerstown. The family-friendly event is open to everyone.

SUMMER CAMP

Now’s the time to think about what to do with the kids this summer? We are hosting a Monday through Friday summer camp July 17-21, called Little Vikings: Explore Legends and Magic. Explore the exhibition, Legends and Landscapes, get inspired by the gods, legends and folk tales of Norway. The camp is open to ages 8 to 13.

To sign up for any of the classes or summer camp, visit wcmfa.org/ art-classes.

I encourage you to follow us on Facebook and Instagram, sign up for our newsletter to keep abreast of all the wonderful opportunities we have to offer. Come and experience something new at the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts.

Crystal Schelle is director of marketing and communications for Washington County Museum of Fine Arts. To learn more about the museum, go to www.wcmfa.org. Washington County Museum of Fine Arts is open Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. It is closed Mondays and on major holidays. To become a museum member, contact Donna Rastelli at drastelli@ wcmfa.org or call 301-739-5727.

Judith Peck of Great Falls, Virginia, received the First Place Juror’s Award in the artists category for the 2023 Cumberland Valley Artists and Photographers Exhibitions.

Each May, Washington County Public Schools art students elementary to high school showcase their work at the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts.

A Dream Of Summer

John Greenleaf Whittier

So, in those winters of the soul, By bitter blasts and drear

O’erswept from Memory’s frozen pole, Will sunny days appear.

Reviving Hope and Faith, they show The soul its living powers, And how beneath the winter’s snow Lie germs of summer flowers!

Washington County Arts Council Gets Ready for Summer

Written by Mary Anne Burke

Out and About Summer brings many outdoor opportunities for every age and for every taste and interest.

When you begin to explore “Summer Camps” you will have only

touched the surface. Your research can go on and on. Parents know the importance of home, school and extracurriculars for children’s growth and development. Summer Camp offers another type of learning and social experience. And summer camps and programs are for adults, too.

Summer camps provide a unique

opportunity for growth and fun, allowing kids to become independent and self-confident, while socializing, making new friends and learning new skills. And camps and programs allow adults to build a new interest, create opportunities to meet a new group of people and often leading to new friendships.

This time of year, the scramble for summer programs begins. Where to begin? The Washington County Arts Council maintains a robust listing of summer camps with links to each provider (www. washingtoncountyarts.com/ summercamps) as well links to art programing for children (www.washingtoncountyarts. com/children).

As a new opportunity to encourage young artists for summer 2023, The Washington County Arts Council is providing scholarships for students to attend Barbara Ingram School For the Arts Foundation’s Summer Arts Academy. The Summer Arts Academy provides week-long sessions in visual arts, creative writing, playwrit-

ing, filmmaking, sculpting, piano, dance, vocal, guitar and more. Applications are available through the BISFA Foundation: barbaraingramfoundation.org/ class-descriptions.

Next, as winter gradually disappears, plan to welcome over 100 films to the Maryland International Film FestivalHagerstown. MDIFF-H’s opening night this year is scheduled for Thursday, March 23, at The Maryland Theatre with the remaining days of the festival running from March 24 through March 26. The remaining festival days will take place from Friday, March 24, through Sunday, March 26, at the ACT Black Box, USMH, The Washington County Free Library – Fletcher Branch, and the Grand Piano Building.

All filming and after parties will be hosted in downtown Hagerstown facilities. Parking is easily accessible from the A&E Parking Deck located at 25 Renaissance Way. Use the main entrance off the 3rd level (Potomac Street Level). There is an elevator on each level for your convenience. For more information, visit www.marylandiff.org.

Out and About Summer brings so many additional outdoor opportunities for our community such as Big Cork Summer Concert Series in partnership with The Maryland Theatre; brewery and winery events; Imagine Hagerstown Fourth Friday gospel and band concerts; and the return of Wind Down in downtown Hagerstown. These and many more programs can be found at www. washingtoncountyarts.com/ summer-events.

And finally, through the summer, the Washington County Arts Council continues to host monthly new exhibits, artist receptions and virtual showings.

Mary Anne Burke is the executive director of the Washington County Arts Council.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE WASHINGTON COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL

Potomac Riverfront Community

For the person who has longed for a waterfront country escape that is both private and convenient, with woods and paths for nature walks, where deer, foxes, wild turkeys and eagles are abundant; this is the proverbial once in a lifetime opportunity.

Gated community of large private lots. Small commu-nity of 19 home sites. Enjoy the beauty of nature in the wooded setting. Hiking trails and biking paths. Boating, fshing, swimming, kayak and canoe. Marina with individu-al dock space available. Cress Creek club initial membership provided.

Private access to 12 navigable miles deep water of the Potomac River.

Community Pavilion overlooking the Potomac with out-door kitchen, picnic gazebo, barbecue and fre pit. Bocce court and putting green.

Away from it all yet convenient location. Minutes to downtown Shepherdstown, Shepherd University, boutique shops, good restaurants. An area of interesting folks and cultural activities 15 min to Marc DC Commuter Train. WVJF2004778

3.39 acres to 6.16 acres

Shop Small & Local at the Markets at

You’ll fnd a wide selection of restaurant, boutique shops, gifts, crafts, produce, distillery, meadery, wine, brewery & pub. There

Live music every weekend from 7 PM to 10 PM.

Live Music every Friday & Saturday at the Public House