At Home Places, Holiday 2023

MARYL AND

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HOLIDAY SHOPPING LOCAL SHOPS ARE TOPS FOR UNIQUE GIFTS

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PLUS: WAYS TO ENTERTAIN, SAVE AND STAY HEALTHY THIS SEASON

TRAVEL: THE RICH HISTORY OF VIRGINIA’S SHENANDOAH VALLEY

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inside

BACK IN THE DAY

8

Downtown Hagerstown Gets Lit Up for the 1936 Holiday Season

A HERALD-MAIL MEDIA PUBLICATION

Volume 10, Issue 6 ISSUE EDITOR

Glenn Garvie DESIGN EDITORS/LAYOUT

16

HOLIDAY SHOPPING

10

Weekend Getaways With a Rich History Are in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley

FOOD

20

Give a Beloved Thanksgiving Side Dish a New Taste

22

Holiday Cooking for a Crowd Made Easy

AT THE LIBRARY

24

ADVERTISING DESIGN

Gannett Creative Solutions ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Dawn Friedman

ADVERTISING SALES

Explore the Past with WHILBR Collections

Denise Bender, Michelle Horton, George Steinbraker © 2023 Herald-Mail Media

COMMUNITY

32 34

Tips to Maintain Healthy Holiday Eating Social Boundaries and Holiday Health

Leadership Washington County Wraps Up Its 2024 Schedule

36

Meet Old Friends at the Museum of Fine Arts

38

The Gallery Shop at the Washington County Arts Council Is Ready for the Season

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

Follow @athomeplaces on facebook.com/athomeplaces twitter.com/athomeplaces instagram.com/athomeplaces

MANAGE YOUR MONEY

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Start Your Holiday Financial Plan Now MARYL AND

SENIOR LIVING

30 31

Dressing the Part

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

WELL + BEING

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jacob W. Barr, Tara Bockstanz, Thomas Bradshaw, Mary Ann Burke, Sarah J. Hall, Susan Hurd, Paulette Lee, Lisa McCoy, Sarah Nadeau, Tricia Lynn Strade

Gift Ideas from Local Businesses

TRAVEL

16

Kathryn Beik, Brittany Huntley, Emma Stackhouse, and Princella Heath of DesignIQ

Is It Time to Vaccinate?

The Gift of Relevancy

REGIONAL REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

41

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HOLIDAY SHOPPING

Your resource for agents, builders, listings and more.

ON THE COVER: Snow falls at Memorial Park in Hagerstown.

Photo by Colleen McGrath/Herald-Mail

LOCAL SHOPS ARE TOPS FOR UNIQUE GIFTS

THIS ISSUE PROUDLY SPONSORED BY… CHECK OUT PAGE 9 FOR DETAILS

PLUS: WAYS TO ENTERTAIN, SAVE AND STAY HEALTHY THIS SEASON

TRAVEL: THE RICH HISTORY OF VIRGINIA’S SHENANDOAH VALLEY

Watch for our WINTER ISSUE coming to your location in December.

6 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

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BACK IN THE DAY

COURTESY OF WASHINGTON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Holiday in Lights

I

n December 1936, for the first time in its history, West Washington Street in downtown Hagerstown, from the Public Square to Washington Square, glowed with 5,375 colored lights to officially inaugurate the “Christmas rush.” The festive tree in Public Square alone was decorated with 1,000 twinkling lights. Although less elaborate, other trees, one in Washington Square, one each at the Flatiron

8 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

building, on Jonathan Street and on Pennsylvania Avenue, were also decorated for the season. It was an estimated grand total of 6,825 10-watt bulbs.

In addition, the city mounted 208 wreaths on lampposts and buildings, 152 electrically lighted stars and 1,000 yards of holly rope. Over at Leiter Brothers’ department store, children arrived to receive a gift from Santa Claus, while Christmas carols

played from the third floor of the building, adding an extra dash of Yuletide flavor to the street scene outside.

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

.

FROM THE COVER

R. Bruce Carson Jewelers Renowned expertise, extensive selection

our customers about diamonds, the 4c’s (color, clarity, carat and cut) arson Jewelers and also gemstones, combines tradidifferent metals, etc. tion and history It’s important they with a modern aesthetic understand what they and sensibility. The are purchasing.” family-owned jeweler Nicole believes that was founded in 1902 by the nature of the busiRobert “Bruce” Carson ness helps further and is currently owned bond the employees to

by Tom Newcomer, who their customers. “It’s took over from his father, the beginning of a new Charles. Tom’s daughter, chapter in the couple’s Ashley Newcomer-Mills, lives and they chose is a co-owner and Vice Carson Jewelers to be President of the company. part of it! It’s exciting to The strong sense of family build a relationship with encompasses the store each couple. We not only and their customers. get to be involved with Nicole Hampton, the choosing the engagement Director of Marketing, ring but the wedding notes, “Carson’s has had bands too. While helping the pleasure of being part these customers. we of many customers’ lives build lifelong relationand their special occasions ships with customers for over 120 years. To us, who become our our customers are more friends.”

Tom Newcomer and his daughter Ashley Newcomer-Mills, are proud of like friends, and we strive In keeping up with the 120-year history behind R. Bruce Carson Jewelers, their family-owned to make each experience the latest trends, Carson business in Hagerstown. with us special and exceed Jewelers does carry lab their expectations! It’s an created diamonds and extra bonus that we have a knowledgeable jewelry as an option for their customers. staff that includes an on-site gemologist Nicole adds, “They are a great option and master jeweler.” In fact, the staff of for customers who want a bigger look experts has over 135 years of collective and have a limited budget. However, we experience. educate our customers about pros and While Carson’s has always been a cons of natural diamonds vs. laboratory full-service jeweler with a staff including diamonds.” jewelers, gemologists and appraisers, Carson’s Jewelers is known for much the shop is especially well-known for its more than engagement and wedding expertise in helping customers select rings. The store features the area’s the perfect engagement and wedding largest selection of loose diamonds rings. Ashley advises potential clients: “Just enjoy and and diamond jewelry, including the finest pieces from have fun with it! There are so many styles available now many well-known designers. Watch lines, such as Citizen for engagement rings and wedding bands. We love to mix and Bulova, are also part of the inventory, and Carson’s and match metals. We enjoy working with our customers to carries an extensive line of estate jewelry, and more. find their favorite style. We also do a lot of custom designs Customers initially come to the store for the warm, friendly to make sure they have that one-of-a-kind ring that lasts atmosphere, renowned expertise, or extensive selection, a lifetime. At Carson Jewelers, we take pride in educating and they always return.

WRITTEN BY LESLIE PERLMUTTER

PHOTO BY R. BRUCE CARSON JEWELERS

C

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023 9

.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING

GIFT IDEAS ‘Yule’ Love

When seeking out that perfect holiday gift, your local shop right down the street just might have what you’re looking for.

Here are some unique – and nearby – gift suggestions.

AMERICAN BALD EAGLE Bronze Alloy Sculpture

by John Neal Mullican $195 Available from Washington County Arts Council, 34 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown washingtoncountyarts .com/shop-artists

10 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

ENGLISH WALNUT BOWL

By Charles Paul. Turned by the artist. Hand-wash only. $100 Available at Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, Museum Store, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown | wcmfa.org

COLLECTIBLE TIN LUNCHBOXES Vintage-style lunchboxes with artwork from famous bands, movies, TV shows, etc.

Priced at $18 Available at Hub City Vinyl, 28 East Baltimore St., Hagerstown | hubcityvinyl.com

ALL IMAGES PROVIDED COURTESY OF THE LOCAL BUSINESSES

CELEBRITY CANDLES Candles colored and decorated with images and artwork from famous bands and musicians $14.50 each Available at Hub City Vinyl, 28 East Baltimore St., Hagerstown hubcityvinyl.com

HOLIDAY SHOPPING GABRIEL AND CO. 14K Yellow Gold Diamond Chevron Necklace $650

HEARTS ON FIRE Fulfillment pendant, set in 18k white or yellow gold Starting at $1,800

CHARLES GARNIER Sterling Silver 2mm Mesh Bangle with CZ, 2 Tone, 18K Yellow Gold and Rhodium Finish $132 MARCO BICEGO 18kyg Jaipur Collection Gold Small Gauge Necklace $10,550

All available at R. BRUCE CARSON JEWELERS 12814-G Shank Farm Way, Hagerstown carsonjewelers.com

CHRISTMAS ALBUMS ON VINYL Both brand-new and used vinyl albums of Christmas music.

New albums range typically from $15-$30, used albums from $2 and up.

Available at Hub City Vinyl, 28 East Baltimore St., Hagerstown | hubcityvinyl.com

THE ARTISTIC CAT MUG $16.95 Lovers of cats and art will love this mug from The Unemployed Philosophers Guild.

The mug features multiple breeds of cats in the styles of iconic artists such as Manet, Picasso, Goya and more.

Available at Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, Museum Store, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown | wcmfa.org AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023 11

HOLIDAY SHOPPING

PAPER

Pastimes

INHERITANCE: THE LOST BRIDE TRILOGY, BOOK ONE (Hardcover) A tale of tragedies, loves found and lost, and a family haunted for generations. $27 CHRISTMAS EVERLASTING (Trade Paperback) ’Tis the season for heartwarming romance! $17

WREATH CARD

By Mike Gouker.

Handpainted (watercolor and ink). Blank inside. $8

CHRISTMAS CARD

By R. Benjamin Jones. Inside: “A Very Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for a Happy New Year” $4

Both available at Washington County Arts Council 34 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown washingtoncountyarts.com/shop-artists

ALBUM COVER JIGSAW PUZZLES 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzles of classic album cover images.

Prices range from $20 - $25 Available at Hub City Vinyl, 28 East Baltimore St., Hagerstown hubcityvinyl.com

STARLIT WINTER NIGHTS (Trade Paperback) The holidays in Cordina are always laced with romance and mystery. $10

All available at Turn the Page Bookstore 18 N. Main St., Boonsboro www.ttpbooks.com All Nora Roberts books, purchased from Turn the Page Bookstore, can be autographed at no extra charge.

12 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

LOVE WARP

By Joan K. Selby. A debut collection of poetry. $17

FEEL THE RAIN: HIKING INTO RETIREMENT An autobiography by Jim Lobley $18

Both available at Washington County Arts Council 34 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown washingtoncountyarts.com/shop-artists

ALL IMAGES PROVIDED COURTESY OF THE LOCAL BUSINESSES

NORA ROBERTS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

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HOLIDAY SHOPPING

NECKLACE & EARRINGS SET

By Kathy Maher.

Venetian glass pendant and beads, lampwork, crystal on black wire. $75

ASIAN INSPIRATION

By Sukey Rankin.

Fine Silver, 24K Gold, Embossed, Textured with Keum-boo. $300

HEARTS EARRINGS

By Beth Carey. Sterling Silver $64 HEARTS NECKLACE

By Beth Carey. Sterling Silver $88

All available at Washington County Arts Council, 34 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown | washingtoncountyarts.com/shop-artists

WASHINGTON COUNTY MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS ORNAMENT This two-sided porcelain ornament features the museum in a snowy winter scene on the front and the museum’s logo on the back.

Perfect for any lover of art, Christmas or winter. $15

SORUKA BACKPACK PURSE This one-of-a-kind T purse is created by hand using recycled leather in order to reduce the ecological impact of traditional leather production. $122.50

FLATYZ FLAT Handmade decorative flat candles in a variety of holiday and non-holiday scenes perfect for a gift or a gift for yourself. $18.95

All available at Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, Museum Store, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown | wcmfa.org 14 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

ALL IMAGES PROVIDED COURTESY OF THE LOCAL BUSINESSES

EXPERTLY crafted

TRAVEL

T Weekend Getaways With a Rich History Are in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley Written by Tricia Lynn Strader

16 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

he Shenandoah Valley is believed to have been first inhabited over 9,000 years before Christ by those we now call Native Americans. Later, Europeans came to conquer the wilderness. There are hundreds of years of family histories, wars and skirmishes. So, its towns have countless historical and unique places to visit, from ghostly stories and legends perfect for fall, to colonial Christmases or any other seasonal travel.

Abram’s Delight

Winchester’s “Abram’s Delight” at 1340 S. Pleasant Valley Road, is known as oldest home in Winchester; it’s the home of five generations of the Hollingsworth family, covering 200 years. When Abraham Hollingsworth came to the Valley around 1728, he

The Glen Burnie House and Gardens, part of the MSV, was constructed in the 1790s.

COURTESY OF THE MUSEUM OF THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY

was looking for a spot to build a home and establish a mill. He found fertile land and plenty of water. The first home was a log cabin just west of the present house. A hand-dug well can still be viewed. Abraham began construction of the grand house in 1748.

Second son Isaac inherited, and built the larger “mansion,” compared to other nearby cabins. Simon Taylor, the builder, had completed Springdale (1753), home of early settler John Hite.

The stone mill was built in 1833 by David Hollingsworth, the great-grandson of Abraham Hollingsworth.

TRAVEL gant gilt paper. I don’t remember to have seen more beautiful papering…”

A remnant of the wallpaper was found and today a reproduction is on the walls in Jackson’s office for visitors to enjoy. The Inside the house contains the largGlen Burnie est collection of Jackson House, part memorabilia and also of the MSV. personal objects from COURTESY OF members of his staff.

THE MUSEUM Items include his OF THE personal prayer table, SHENANDOAH initialed prayer book, VALLEY and many other Jackson family artifacts. The museum honors the memory of General Jackson’s military genius as Robert E. Lee’s most valuable officer. His sincerity and valor moved men’s spirits to follow him against any odds. General Jackson’s office is essentially the same as when he used it.

Jackson’s Headquarters is open daily April 1 to Oct. 31. Admission is charged.

Special events and exhibits are held periodically. Often candlelight Christmas tours are held. For more information, call (540) 773-1604.

George Washington Office Museum

Winchester changed hands 72 times during the Civil War, and most properties suffered from many battles or changes of command. Following the deaths of Jonah Isaac and Mary (possibly a spy), Annie remained. When she was older, she made over the home to cousins and left. It was unoccupied for 30 years. In 1943, the city of Winchester purchased the old home and 35 acres of land to preserve its history and protect the water supply provided by the spring.

The log cabin is not the original building, but a 1780 structure moved in 1967 from Cork Street in Old Town Winchester to Abraham Hollingsworth’s original cabin site.

On December 1 and 2, Abram’s Delight holds a Christmas Candlelight Tour with decorations created by garden clubs.

Free admission. Visit winchesterhistory. org or call (540) 662-6550.

George Washington used a little log building downtown as a military office from 1755 to 1756 while Fort Loudoun was being built. The George Washington Office Museum has a cannon left by General Edward Braddock in Alexandria. It is among a number of artifacts on display like some of Washington’s personal effects, surveying equipment, and a scale model of Winchester circa 1755. On Feb. 19, visit to celebrate Washington’s 292nd birthday.

Visit at 32 West Cork & Braddock Streets.

Call (540) 662-4412.

Museum of the Shenandoah Valley

Stonewall Jackson’s Headquarters

The famous Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson spent a lot of time in Winchester from 1861-1862, now 415 N. Braddock St. His headquarters was a Hudson River Gothic Revival style home built in 1854.

The “cottage” sold in 1856 to Lewis T. Moore, (a relative of actress Mary Tyler Moore) and Lt. Col. In the 4th Va. Volunteers during the Civil War. Jackson wrote his wife, “…The situation is beautiful. The building is of cottage style and contains six rooms. I have two rooms, one above the other. My lower room, or office, has matting on the floor, a large fine table, six chairs, and a piano. The walls are papered with ele-

Part of the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley (MSV), at 901 Amherst St., is the Glen Burnie House and Gardens, which have been open since 1997. James Wood settled the land in 1735. He donated portions of his homestead to establish the city of Winchester in 1744. It is believed his son Robert constructed the main portion of Glen Burnie House in the 1790s. The home remained in the same family from the 1700s until the late 1990s when Wood descendant

Stonewall Jackson’s Headquarters in Winchester was built in 1854.

PHOTO BY TRICIA LYNN STRADER

AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023 17

TRAVEL This Greek-revival courthouse, built in 1840, sits on the site of the area’s first courthouse. It was used as a hospital, a prison, and a barracks during the Civil War. Many prisoners left their names and other graffiti on the walls, much of which is still visible today. An exhibit tells the Shenandoah Valley’s Civil War story through experiences and words of the people who lived it, using artifacts, stories, and imagery. It covers major battles and legendary events, as well as lives of the soldiers and civilians who struggled through the war years. Open year-round. For more information, call (540) 740-4545.

Patsy Cline Historic House

The Shenandoah Valley Civil War Museum occupies the historic Frederick County Courthouse in Winchester.

COURTESY OF JERRY HOLSWORTH

Julian Wood Glass, Jr. (1910–1992) created a foundation to open his ancestral home to the public as a museum.

The house is open for self-guided tours with interpretive panels to tell the story of the people who lived there. A furnished miniature model of the home detailing what it looked like when Glass owned the residence is on view in the dining room.

Opened in 2005, a galleries building anchors the regional history complex that includes the Glen Burnie House, seven acres of formal gardens, and a 90-acre art park with trails. Permanent exhibitions detail the history of the Shenandoah Valley and showcase the region’s decorative arts and Glass’s collection.

Julian Wood Glass Jr. was an avid collector, and the museum area has objects original to the earliest Wood and Glass families. An example is the tall case clock circa 1795 by Goldsmith Chandlee, and the largest single collection of portraits by Edward Caledon Bruce (1825-1900). Furniture includes pieces by Philadelphia and Massachusetts makers, and paintings by the likes of Rembrandt Peale (1778-1860) and George Romney (1734-1802).

Changing and traveling exhibitions are presented regularly at the MSV. “Tiny Ridge” is showing in the drawing

room of Glen Burnie through Dec. 31.

This exhibition presents a series of photographs featuring figures from model train sets as little inhabitants in Tiny Ridge, an imaginary world created by photographer Sarah Jones Decker.

In the galleries building, “Marvelocity: The Art of Alex Ross” displays original works by world- famous comic book artist Alex Ross and is on view through Feb. 18, 2024. Offering a glimpse into the life of benefactor Julian Wood Glass, Jr., “123—I Love You” is through March 2, 2024. “Contributions: African Americans in the Shenandoah Valley,” exhibits through March 3, 2024. Regency-era furniture and paintings collected by the Museum’s benefactor are on view in “Across the Pond: American and British Art from the Julian Wood Glass Jr. Collection” through May 19, 2024.

Memories at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley: Happy Holidays is Dec. 14 at the MSV. Combo tickets are available for galleries building, gardens, and Glen Burnie House. The museum store has a selection of works by Valley artists, books and other gift items. The site is open free on Wednesdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (11 a.m. to 4 p.m. January through March). For more information on admission call (888) 556-5799, (540) 662-1473, or visit theMSV.org.

Shenandoah Valley Civil War Museum

In the heart of Winchester on N. Loudoun St., the Shenandoah Valley Civil War Museum occupies the historic Frederick County Courthouse.

18 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

For country and pop fans, find the Patsy Cline Historic House at 608 S. Kent St. This house was her residence from age 16 to 21, 1948-1953. She lived there longer than at any other house associated with her in the Winchester and Nashville areas, and she returned to it intermittently until her singing career began in 1957. Call (540) 662-5555.

Events of Interest Upcoming holiday events in Winchester include: Christmas in Princeton Holiday Lights Parade on Nov. 24, Water Street Kitchen, 2 S. Loudoun St. Light the World: A Community Christmas Celebration on Dec. 1 at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 399 Apple Pie Ridge Road Barns of Berryville, 95 Chalmers Court, hosts Vince Guaraldi’s classical jazz soundtrack from “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” on Dec. 2 by the Eric Byrd Trio Winchester Winter Village in Old Town from Dec. 8 through 10, 136 S. Loudoun St. Holiday Open House & Winter Market on Dec. 9, Winchester Low Brass Christmas on Dec. 10, the Monument, 186 N. Loudoun St.

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FOOD

Irresistible Basil Give a beloved Mashed Potatoes side dish a fresh new taste this Thanksgiving Serves 4 to 6

Ingredients: 2 pounds floury, baking-type potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks Salt

2 to 3 cups fresh basil leaves of any type (2 to 3 ounces — a nice big bunch) 2 cups heavy (whipping) cream or half-and-half

By Metro Creative Connection typical Thanksgiving dinner table is loaded with familiar foods. Turkey, of course, takes center stage, but side dishes also garner their fair share of attention during Thanksgiving dinner.

Hosts don’t have much room to experiment when preparing turkey for Thanksgiving dinner. Though turkey can be roasted, slow cooked, smoked, or even fried, recipes for seasoning the bird are likely to feature similar ingredients. Hosts have much more leeway when it comes to side dishes. New and bold flavors can

A

add a little something special to side dishes this Thanksgiving, and guests might appreciate a break from the norm. That’s just what this recipe for “Irresistible Basil Mashed Potatoes” from Marlena Spieler’s “Yummy Potatoes” (Chronicle Books) provides.

The fresh basil can add some unique flavor to a beloved side dish.

Guests might appreciate a break from the norm. That’s just what this recipe for “Irresistible Basil Mashed Potatoes” from Marlena Spieler’s “Yummy Potatoes” (Chronicle Books) provides.

20 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

4 tablespoons butter Black pepper Directions: 1. Place the potatoes in a saucepan and fill with water to cover. Add a big pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook, covered, for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender.

Drain, return to the heat and shake for a few minutes to dry them out; turn off the heat, cover the pan and keep warm.

2. Meanwhile, blanch the basil. Plunge it into a saucepan of boiling water, cook a moment or two until the leaves wilt and slightly change color and lift out of the pot using a slotted spoon, then plunge into a bowl of ice water. Leave for about five minutes or until it turns brightly colored, then lift from the ice water.

3. Heat the cream in a saucepan until bubbles form around the edge of the pan.

4. Squeeze the basil in your hands gently to rid it of excess water from cooking. Place in a food processor and whirl to purée. Slowly pour the hot cream into this puréed basil and whirl until it forms a fragrant, pale green cream.

5. Coarsely mash the potatoes with a masher, then add the basil cream and mash it in; work in the butter, and season to taste with salt and pepper. If you’re serving duck or lamb, serve the potatoes with a drizzle of the port reduction around the edge.

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AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023 21

FOOD

Holiday Cooking for a Crowd Made Easy

By Metro Creative Connection

A

Cater a meal

number of things can be expected during the holiday season. Children will anxiously await visits from Santa and travelers recognize there is bound to be traffic on the roadways and crowds at the airport.

And if you’re opening your home to guests, those visitors will be expecting some delicious food.

Meals are a big component of holiday entertaining, so much so that holiday hosts may spend weeks pondering what to serve guests.

These guidelines can help simplify cooking for a crowd.

There’s certainly pride that comes with offering guests a table full of home-cooked foods. But the expense, effort and time that goes into creating a masterful menu can be taxing. If a lot of people are coming for the holidays, hosts can find out which area businesses offer holiday catering packages and consider them. This frees up more time for mingling with guests. And food establishments often have experience knowing just how much food to have per person, reducing waste and helping hosts avoid having a refrigerator full of leftovers they may or may not eat.

Plan make-ahead dishes

Delegate some tasks

Simplifying holiday cooking comes down to spending less time in the kitchen on the day of the festivities. Make-ahead dishes that can be reheated or set in chafing dishes for buffet meals are preferable. There’s lots of dishes to choose from, including casseroles, stews, soups, and baked pasta dishes. Avoid fresh pasta offerings, like spaghetti and meatballs, for example. Leftover noodles will get mushy and will not reheat very well.

Ham is a good choice

Ham is a forgiving dish that is quite popular for holiday gatherings. Many hams come pre-cooked and pre-sliced, so producing a flavorful main course may be just a matter of dressing it up with seasonings or even using the glaze that often comes with such products.

It’s alright to ask guests to bring something to the holiday dinner. In fact, they may be eager to pitch in. If someone brings a salad, another an appetizer and others some desserts, then it is just up to the host to provide the main course and maybe a side or two. This removes a lot of the pressure.

Select familiar foods

Hosts may be tempted to try all of the delicious recipes featured in magazines or online around the holidays. However, sticking with familiar dishes that you have made before reduces the chances for error.

Recipes that can be whipped up by rote will make holiday cooking tasks easier and quicker.

Cooking for a holiday crowd doesn’t have to be difficult, especially when hosts employ a few strategies to simplify meal creation.

22 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

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AT THE LIBRARY

Explore the Past with

Digital WHILBR Collections Written by Sarah Nadeau

A

s we look ahead to the holiday season and a year winding down, there are many reminders to reflect on where we’ve been and our personal growth over the last twelve months. We can take this opportunity to further widen the lens and consider the lessons learned from past generations, and to examine the progress made together as we look toward the future.

Western Maryland Regional Library, which serves the Western Maryland public library systems, introduced the Western Maryland Historical Library database (known as WHILBR) online 10 years ago. The scanned collections of documents and photos hosted there have been a true gift for local researchers in that time. Photos from WHILBR have been used in countless history presentations, nonfiction books, and larger educational collections.

Newly updated for easier browsing, Digital WHILBR features signature collections of historical items from Garrett, Allegany, and Washington Counties. If you’re interested in the impact of noted historical events on the lives of past Western Maryland residents, this is a great place to find information that may not be available elsewhere online.

Having so much evidence of what life was like here in different eras surrounds our ancestors’ lives with important context and can transport us to new places of understanding.

One collection of local Civil War documents, for example, includes the 1865 diary of William H. Perkins, a local who joined the Baltimore Light Artillery at 21-years-old and went on to become a doctor in Hancock after the war. This diary includes notes from Perkins on attending President Lincoln’s second Inauguration, as well as the president’s funeral several months later.

Another collection, “Rosie the Riveters of Western Maryland - Women on the Home Front,” features the oral histories of local women who worked on the home front during World War II collected at Washington County Free Library central library in May 2004. Many of these women worked at Fairchild Aircraft riveting together airplanes like the C82, C119, and the PBM bomber.

Having firsthand remembrances like these available truly does provide a wider lens of understanding of history, humanity, and home.

With more Signature Collections coming to WHILBR in the future, like the “Hays Photograph Collection of Hagerstown” and “War of 1812 Sharpsburg Militia,” we are looking

24 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

forward to sharing more windows into the past via the Western Maryland Historical Library database.

Reflecting on where we’ve already been can help guide us as we look ahead to where we want to be in the future, whether that’s in 2024 or 3024. Travel to days gone by with the WHILBR at whilbr.org and find more local history resources available through your library at washcolibrary.org.

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

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WELL + BEING

Tips to Maintain Healthy Eating During the Holidays Written by Lisa McCoy

I

t is a busy time of the year with the addition of holiday preparations to the usual family and work routines.

Home-cooked family meals can be challenging with the extra time required for holiday shopping, decorating and festivities. Here are two solutions to provide healthy meals in 30 minutes or less.

Sheet-pan Meals

Sheet-pan meals are the new trend in family dinner meals because they have simple preparation and easy cleanup.

All you need is an oven, a baking sheet, olive oil, vegetables, protein food and seasonings (salt, pepper and your choice of herbs and spices). The meals start with a heavy 13x9-inch roasting pan or any large baking sheet. Line it with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup, or put the food directly on the pan.

The best part is you can choose foods that match you and your family’s food preferences. It is also a great way to introduce new vegetables to your family. Since sheet pan dinners are cooked at a high temperature (usually 425-450° F), the high dry heat of the oven roasts the vegetables which concentrates the natural sugar in them creating a caramelized flavor that is both savory and sweet. Root vegetables like potatoes, onions, carrots, beets, and turnips are delicious when roasted. Other vegetables like winter squash, asparagus and mushrooms are also good choices for roasting. Green colored vegetables like green beans and broccoli are not as well suited because their color may turn to an unappealing olive green. Put vegetables that take the longest to cook in the pan first. It is important to leave space between vegetables. If vegetables are crowded together, they will steam instead of roast. In a small bowl, combine olive oil with your choice of seasonings, like lemon juice, salt, pepper. A general rule of thumb: use 1 tablespoon of olive oil for every 2 pounds of vege-

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tables. Drizzle the seasoned oil over the vegetables in the pan and toss lightly to coat all the vegetables. Remember to keep some oil if you are adding other vegetables later in the roasting process.

Coating the vegetables lightly with the seasoned oil keeps them from drying out and adds flavor while roasting. You can also add garlic cloves or sprigs of fresh rosemary, oregano, thyme or sage to your pan to add flavor.

Vegetables cook at different times so use the chart found at www.bhg. com/recipes/how-to/cooking-basics/ how-to-roast-vegetables as a guide to determine recommended roasting time.

For example, roast onions and Brussels sprouts (tossed with seasoned olive oil), uncovered, about 30 minutes, stirring once. Remove the pan from the oven and add red peppers (drizzled with remaining oil). Toss to combine all vegetables together in pan and return to the oven.

Continue to cook about 10 to 15 minutes more, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and brown on the edges.

26 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

One-Bowl Meals

Another idea for quick and healthy meals that have easy cleanup are onebowl meals. These popular meals are easy to plan and prepare with some ingredients that can be prepared ahead for quick meals on busy weeknights. It takes only three easy steps to complete your one-bowl meal. Bowls transform your meal into a stack that you create layer by layer with different textures and flavors that blend.

Start your bowl with grains or noodles.

Try different varieties of rice (jasmine, brown, yellow, white), ancient grains like quinoa or couscous, or different styles of pasta and noodles. Soba noodles, made from buckwheat, are gluten-free and cook in only 3 minutes. Make extra servings of grains and noodles, refrigerate to use later in the week or freeze for longer storage.

The next layer is veggies. Choose raw or cooked vegetables that go well together. Roasted root vegetables add a unique sweet taste

1

2

WELL + BEING easy healthy meals will help your family to fill up on healthy foods so they will not be as likely to indulge in too many sweets and unhealthy holiday foods.

Maintain some physical activity in your daily life is important. Even if you only have 10 minutes for a short walk, it will help to relieve some stress and give you an energy boost. Do your physical activity in the morning before you get too busy and run out of time.

The most important thing is to enjoy the holidays. Although food can be a big part of the holiday season, it does not have to be the focus. Try to relax and enjoy the season with your family and friends.

peas, kidney and cannellini beans are fast and convenient. Just rinse beans, drain and add to your bowl. In addition to beans or in place of, add meat, poultry, or fish for protein. Cook these protein options ahead of time, adding seasoning while cooking, so they are ready to eat when you add them to your bowl.

The final layer is the topping. You may choose to top it with some herbs and spices, sauces, cheese, sesame seeds, and other toppings of your choice.

Your basic one-bowl meal is complete.

The best part of the meal is that everyone builds their own bowl according to how they like it. This quick and easy dinner is healthy and filling. Save leftovers so you can make one-bowl meals for lunches at home or work, with a quick warm up.

It can be more challenging to eat healthy during the holidays. Overeating one day will not make you gain weight but if you do not maintain some balance between food intake and exercise, you may gain weight. Using these tips for

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to your bowl. There are no limits on how many different vegetables you can add to your bowl. Having choices for your family satisfies everyone’s taste buds.

Offer your family two or more vegetables to add to their bowl.

The third step is adding protein to your bowl. If you prefer a meatless meal, add beans, cheese, roasted tofu, or nuts for protein. Canned unsalted beans like black beans, chick-

3

Protein

Vegetable

Starches

Lisa McCoy is a registered dietitian at the University of Maryland Extension

Toppings

Beef

Artichokes

Corn

Sauces/Dressing

Flank Steak

Asparagus

Gnocchi

Balsamic Vinegar

Mini Meatloaves

Bell Peppers

Stuffing

Dijon Mustard

Sausage

Broccoli

Sweet Potatoes

Ginger, Orange Sauce

Stuffed Peppers

Brussels Sprouts

White Potatoes

Honey Mustard

Poultry

Cabbage, Onions

Winter Squash: Butternut Squash

Peanut Sauce

Chicken

Carrots

Soy Sauce

Turkey

Cauliflower

Teriyaki Sauce

Fish

Cauliflower Rice

Herbs & Spices

Salmon

Eggplant, Tomatoes

Cajun Seasoning

Tuna

Green Beans

Curry

Shrimp

Kale, Snow Peas

Garlic & Herb

Cod

Mushrooms

Lemon Garlic Seasoning

Pork

Olives

Paprika

Porkloin or Chops

Squash: Zucchini, Yellow

Rosemary

Barbequed Pork

Fruit

Smoked Paprika

Vegetarian Options

Apples

Toppings

Garbanzo Beans

Lemons & Limes

Cheese

Portobello Mushrooms

Pineapple

Sesame Seeds

Tofu Veggie Burgers

Sheet Pan Dinner Ideas

You can create a combination of protein, vegetables, starches and toppings to make your signature sheet pan dinner for your family.

Choose one or more items from each column to get started. Add other items as desired.

AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023 27

WELL + BEING

Social Boundaries and Holiday Health

28 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

Written by Thomas Bradshaw LMSW

I

t has been said for many years that the holiday season comes earlier every year. Stores are flooded with festive merchandise before Halloween is even over. Songs and hymns such as the old familiar tune “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” play in stores, offices and on radio stations. Invitations are sent to seasonal parties and celebrations, sometimes bringing together those who have not convened since the previous holiday season. While many cultures observe a variety of meaningful customs and traditions throughout the season, it can be a difficult time for many people who might need some space and quiet moments to process thoughts and emotions that arise each year at this time.

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Caring for Yourself and Others

WELL + BEING For some, the holiday season is a time that floods us with memories of those we love but see no longer. In other cases, some may yearn for what the holidays used to be, only to find that their current situation is far from the picture that is painted by their memories and desires. When considering the present, you may also find that the holidays can be a difficult experience because you feel exposed to situations with family and friends that you would otherwise not associate with due to histories of unpleasant expectations or interactions.

Despite these challenges, many will still attempt to participate in holiday festivities, even at the risk of facing challenging circumstances that come with the season. With all of this in mind, we might ask ourselves two questions: 1. How can I show my love and care for others, while still ensuring that I am taking care of my own needs and desires?

2. How can I still show my love and care for others this time of year, while respecting their needs and desires?

A major component relevant for both of these questions is the acknowledgment and maintenance of healthy social

ate experience throughout the holiday season, and at other times, given their own individual circumstances.

Similarly, someone observing the boundaries of another may find that by choosing to recognize and respect that person’s boundaries, they are treating them in a manner that they have asked to be treated and respecting their wishes. Setting and keeping healthy social boundaries can prove to be an invaluable tool that helps all enjoy the best possible experiences both during the holiday season and all year long.

boundaries. According to MerriamWebster, a boundary is “something that indicates or fixes a limit or extent.” In the case of social boundaries, limitations are being placed upon what an individual feels comfortable or willing to endure or participate in.

Boundaries may be set for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, people may be unwilling to engage in certain activities or festivities due to an unpleasant family history. Other times, there may be a desire to observe a boundary due to various beliefs or values, particularly when religious considerations are a part of the equation. Regardless of the reason or intention to place and observe a social boundary, the most appropriate thing to do would be to demonstrate respect for others by observing their established boundaries.

Social boundaries can sometimes feel like an unwelcome guest at a party.

However, the presence of a social boundary could make all the difference in the world to the person who is putting it in place. If someone feels guilt or remorse about upholding their own boundary, they might find comfort in looking to the boundary as a tool that enables them to have a more appropri-

Thomas Bradshaw, LMSW is an outpatient therapist with Brook Lane. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Religion from American Public University and a Master of Social Work from Walden University.

Thomas enjoys working with clients facing a variety of circumstances, including those with anxiety, depression, and ADHD-related concerns. A major clinical interest for Thomas is the integration of a client’s spirituality in the therapeutic process.

Social boundaries can be an instrumental tool when working to maintain your mental health throughout the holiday season. However, the concern remains as to how you can observe both your own social boundaries and the boundaries of others. While there are countless different factors that may come to mind and change the circumstances, here are a few factors that may be helpful when implementing your own social boundaries and the boundaries of others.

When implementing your own social boundaries: Identify and order your priorities

•

• Decide what you are and are not willing to engage in

• Plan to set your boundaries early When observing the social boundaries of others: Recognize the other’s perspective

•

• Ask to understand, not to persuade

• Understand that no means no

AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023 29

SENIOR LIVING

Is it time to vaccinate?

Evaluate the risks and the benefits with your physician GETTY IMAGES

Written by Susan Hurd

D

uring my daughters’ recent annual checkups with a local physician in Washington County, the topic of vaccinations emerged as a crucial discussion point. As a parent, I deeply value the professional guidance our trusted physician offers.

Yet, as a community member, I also hold my unique beliefs and opinions regarding vaccinations. To ensure the health and safety of my children and myself, I maintain a yearly dialogue with my healthcare provider, thoroughly evaluating the risks and benefits associated with each recommended vaccination and addressing potential adverse reactions.

The Centers for Disease Control offers vaccination recommendations tailored to individual risk factors, considering aspects such as age, overall health, and occupation. To make an informed decision, one must absorb all pertinent information, encompassing a comprehensive understanding of potential risks and benefits linked to each vaccination. I strongly encourage consulting your physician and engaging in a meaningful discussion to ensure that your choices are well-informed. Additionally, it’s essential to

communicate any previous allergic reactions to vaccinations with your healthcare provider, as this information helps guide appropriate recommendations.

Once your physician provides their vaccination recommendations, it falls upon you to assess whether you concur with their advice. If you opt for vaccination, being aware of potential adverse effects is critical. Conversely, if you decide against vaccination, discussing alternative preventive measures with your healthcare professional to guard against the targeted virus is advisable.

Should you choose to proceed with vaccination, your healthcare provider will furnish you with a list of vaccines suitable for your age and overall health status. You’ll also need to decide where you’ll receive your vaccination.

Numerous options exist, including your doctor’s office, the Health Department, local pharmacy minute clinics, or other medical facilities, as recommended by your physician.

Lastly, it’s important to recognize that certain vaccines may entail associated costs that may not be fully covered.

Consequently, assessing your vaccination choices should factor into these financial

30 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

considerations. In navigating this process, informed conversations with your healthcare provider remain your best compass to safeguard your well-being and that of your loved ones.

In conclusion, your vaccination decision is an individual choice. A decision that should be weighed carefully by reaching out to your healthcare provider, evaluating the risks versus benefits, and estimating any financial cost that might apply. If you have additional questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact the Washington County Commission on Aging at 301-790-0275. We’re happy to be a resource to help you connect with the right people to answer your specific questions.

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

The Gift of

SENIOR LIVING

Relevancy

Written by Paulette Lee

ask, “I’d like your opinion on something…”, or “What would you do in this situation?” Not only will you be giving a gift, you may well be receiving an even more valuable one in return: the gift of an experienced opinion.

S

everal years ago, as a much-accomplished friend and I were entering our “senior” years, I asked her what surprised her most about aging, and her answer was, “I never thought I’d be seen as irrelevant”.

Indeed, this perception of no longer mattering is a real issue aligned with the loneliness of aging that has become a pandemic in this country. As we age out of parenting and out of working, and as our energy ebbs and perhaps our health or physical abilities start to falter if not fail, there seem to be fewer opportunities to make a difference. Those of us who are able to, volunteer, take classes, develop new social networks, take trips, take up new hobbies, do whatever we can to stay relevant – as in up-to-date, engaged and connected.

A national survey of 1,000 adults age 64 and older conducted by the Californiabased nonprofit SCAN (a Kaiser Health News funder) found almost one-quarter of respondents agree “they aren’t important to anyone anymore.” Of course, being important to someone isn’t necessarily the same as mattering in society, as making a difference. We may be engaged and au courant, but do we matter? Does our experience count for anything? Is our counsel sought?

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An oft-quoted University of Toronto study (published in 2016 Social Psychology Quarterly) of more than 2,500 adults, showed that when people reach their 60s, opportunities to offer advice drop dramatically. Overall, 1 in 5 adults (of more than 2,500 studied) in their 60s said they hadn’t given advice to anyone in the past year, and the rate dropped to 1 in 4 people 70 and older.

The study’s conclusion: Offering advice gives life more meaning.

Markus H. Schafer, the lead author of the study, is quoted as saying, “This association between advice giving and life meaning is not evident for other age groups…

Just when giving advice seems to be most important,

opportunities for doing so seem to wane.”

So this holiday season, if you have an older person on your gift list, you might want to give him or her the gift of relevancy. It’s easy: no gift-wrapping required. Just

Paulette Lee is a former award-winning broadcast journalist and retired marketing and public relations consultant. She lives in Hagerstown, MD and hosts the podcast, “WomanWorthy: Real Talk About Real Issues for Women Over 60” (womanworthy.podbean.com), named

by AARP in 2023 as one of “The Five Best Podcasts for Older Women”.

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AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023 31

COMMUNITY

Dressing the Part Giving the Gift of History – Colonial Fashion for the Modern Audience Written by Matthew Wedd

A

s the holiday season nears people are looking for the perfect gift ideas, and for this season of At Home Places we decided to share how and where to purchase…a full 18th century outfit!

Every Saturday the Conococheague Institute offers free historic programming based around everyday life on the 18th-century frontier, using authentic clothing reproductions to outfit our team, recreating historic recipes, and performing crafts and skills of our ancestors. A common question we get is “Where do we get our clothing?” and “How can I start doing this?”. Whether you’re looking for a full period outfit for living history, or a costume for the big 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution (that’s upcoming in 2026) we’re happy to share our knowledge.

Along the way we’ll also explain each garment’s function and form, and list local and online vendors at the end.

Step 1: Underwear!

Quite literally the clothes you wear underneath your outer garments, and against your skin, underwear for both men and women is large, boxy and unflattering. Primarily made of white linen, a shirt (for men) or shift (for women), gives you coverage from your shoulders to your thighs. Imagine a modern nightie for comparison. The main difference between men and women’s underwear is the sleeve (ending at the cuff for men and elbow for women), and the neckline (which is a high collar for men and a low cut for women to emphasize their décolletage).

It may be unflattering, but colonial underwear are functional in their hygiene. Linen can be boiled and scrubbed clean, and laundry was often done once a week. By taking off the dirty underwear that has absorbed all the ‘toxins’ of your body, and putting on a clean one, you are keeping your body clean!

Step 1.5: Stays (for women).

When most people see these they think ‘waist cinching corset’, but stays were primarily a support garment, supporting the bust from the waist instead of the shoulders. Stays lifted the bust, trimmed the waist, held the shoulders back (for those with straps), and created a smooth support for the garments worn on top.

Materials can range from linen and silk boned for rigidity, to simple leather stays.

Step 2: Stockings.

Long stockings worn to just above the knee gave a flattering look for men’s calves, and added another layer for women. For winter, heavy knitted woolen stockings can be warmer than modern thermals, and light cotton and silk varieties can add flair and color to the bottom half of an outfit. To stop them slipping, tie a garter or cord just below the knee.

32 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

Step 3: Breeches and Petticoats.

As the outer garments assemble, the stark difference in gender in 18th-century fashion makes itself known. Fortunately, modern garments have no gender and can be worn by anyone. For colonial men, breeches are short pants that end below the knee with either buttons or buckles.

They are fitted to be extremely tight in the thighs and groin, but have a very generous ‘seat in the rear’...meaning from behind they aren’t so attractive. But your coat will end up covering that! Trousers that cover the leg are also an option for working class trades.

Women’s petticoats are a wonderful adaptive garment, a separate skirt worn with a gown, bedgown, bodice or jacket; these petticoats are not, strictly speaking, underwear, as they were made to be seen. They are made of ample material and tie so that the same petticoat can fit a young girl or a pregnant mother.

Step 4: Coats/Waistcoats and Gowns/Jackets.

The top half of 18th-century clothes consists of sleeveless waistcoats worn under a larger coat for men. This gives the appearance of the three-piece suit that still defines men’s formalwear. With an array of buttons and ornamental

also be cocked innumerable ways, as well as left down and round to protect from the elements.

Women of all classes would wear linen caps of various styles, but the norm was white linen, with pleats of ruffles at the front. They could be pinned to the hair itself or tied, and often a straw or felt flat hat worn up top gave better weather protection when traveling.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MATTHEW WEDD

Step 6: Shoes.

options with cuffs, collars and pleats, the gentleman’s coat goes through many changes while still being recognizable today. Women’s gowns (or robe à l’anglaise) that were most popular were a dress that was close-fitting in both front and back with attached skirts that flowed over petticoats.

Jackets (or Caraco’s) for women were an adaptation of working gear that evolved as the century progressed.

These were thigh-length and opened in front, with tight three-quarter or long sleeves. As they flattered the figure, they were often worn by younger women still courting.

For all outer garments, fabric could range from broadcloth wool, linen, printed cotton, silk, leather…pretty much all natural materials available would be utilized by different social standings and cultures.

Step 5: Hats.

‘Tricorns’ or cocked hats have become synonymous with 18th century American men and did reign as one of the most fashionable options. Made from stiffened wool felt or beaver felt, a cocked hat allowed men to display their fashionable wigs and also hold the hat under an arm while indoors. Hats could

Leather shoes with buckles are also another trademark of early American life and are fairly similar to our concept of shoes today. One major difference is that the shoes often didn’t have a right or left! The shoes were made on straight lasts, or forms that created the soles of shoes, called straights. Without a sole designed specifically for the left or the right foot, shoes were uncomfortable.

Small fashionable heels were common, and women’s shoes could also be made of fabrics such as wool or silk.

With all these layers understood, you have the makings of an 18th century outfit, but have to acquire them.

One option of course (and something we practice) is to make your own.

Patterns, fabrics, and sources from the time allow faithful recreations to be made, and CI often hosts workshops as part of its annual programs.

Locally in Hagerstown Fikar’s Finest is producing a range of clothing options.

A quick search of that will bring you to their social media and Etsy page www.etsy.com/at/shop/FikarsFinest . Likewise, a range of quality hats can

be purchased from George Franks in Williamsport at cockedhats.com.

On a larger scale, the living history community is growing and it’s sparked some mainstream production available at lower prices to order online.

Jas. Townsend & Son Inc (www. townsends.us) and Samson Historical (www.samsonhistorical.com) have both set themselves apart as manufacturers and retailers of attainable 18th- and early 19th-century clothing and personal accessories. In one shopping cart you can purchase a full outfit, and tools and equipment as well.

To learn more about colonial life, or get advice on purchasing your own outfit, visit CI any Saturday year-round from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., where you can examine our own collection of clothes, experience colonial themed programs, and even become a volunteer! As we hit the holiday season we’ll have sales in our gift shop that have other colonial-themed gifts ranging from games, quills, sealing wax and a range of books.

To learn more visit www.cimlg.org, call 717-328-2800 or email info@cimlg.org Matthew Wedd is executive director of The Conococheague Institute in Mercersburg.

AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023 33

COMMUNITY

LWC Class #37 at the annual Welcome Luncheon, hosted at the Schindel Rohrer Ballroom. COURTESY OF LEADERSHIP WASHINGTON COUNTY

Retreats, Luncheons and Raffles

Leadership Washington County wraps up its end-of-year schedule Written by Tara Bockstanz

T

he Leadership Washington County Class of 2024 - #37 embarked on their Opening Retreat at Rocky Gap Resort on September 20 and 21. This retreat served as a crucial opportunity for a diverse group of individuals living or working in Washington County to come together. Over the course of the retreat, the class forged connections and bonds that will prove invaluable throughout the year as they delve into the ways they can take pride, take part and take the lead within Washington County. Guiding the Opening Retreat were LWC Executive Director, Tara Sargent, and Facilitator Griff Hall, who has been a Senior Professional Instructor in leadership and strategy at the Johns Hopkins Carey School of Business MBA program for over two

decades. During this retreat, participants engaged in various team-building activities and explored their individual personality styles.

LWC Class #37 continued their journey with the annual Welcome Luncheon on September 28, hosted at the Schindel Rohrer Ballroom and catered by 28 South. This luncheon provided an opportunity for LWC’s Board of Directors to connect with the current class. LWC Mentors were also encouraged to join in, sharing their experiences and wisdom with the new class members. Tereance Moore, a member of the LWC Board and LWC Class #32 Graduate, and Erin Clark, a Program Committee Member and LWC Class #35, shared valuable insights about the LWC journey with the class. Throughout this year, the class will partake in eight educational program days, delving into

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topics such as poverty and the Human Service agencies supporting those in need, education, economic development, healthcare, local and state government, arts and culture, and board governance.

Their program days began on October 13 with exploring Human Services in Washington County.

Graduate programming for this year commenced on September 14 with a Behind-the-Scenes tour of Horizon Goodwill at their Corporate Center on Pennsylvania Ave. Graduate Members gained insights into the donation process and the organization’s commitment to recycling and reusing items to reduce landfill waste. Horizon Goodwill, known for its retail shops in Washington County is now expanding to an online retail presence. Graduate Members were inspired with their dedication to progressing local initiatives.

Don’t Miss the

RAFFLE The Get Out of Town Raffle serves as the yearly fundraiser for the LWC Scholarship Fund, which supports small businesses, nonprofits, and self-employed applicants with a portion of their tuition costs. This year, the prize packages are exceptional, offering participants the chance to win: Class of 2024 - #37 participates in a team-building exercise during their Opening Retreat at Rocky Gap Resort. COURTESY OF LEADERSHIP WASHINGTON COUNTY

A Four-Night/Five-Day Rehoboth Beach Getaway A Two-Night Retreat to Savage River Lodge A Three-Night Vacation to Williamsburg, Virginia A Two-Night Stay in a beautiful mountain home in Morgan County, West Virginia $1,000 towards their choice of vacation (hotel accommodations, airfare, cruise tickets, etc.)

The Leadership Washington County Class of 2024 - #37 on their Opening Retreat at Rocky Gap Resort. COURTESY OF LEADERSHIP WASHINGTON COUNTY On October 17, LWC hosted a highly-anticipated event, the Farm to Table Dinner, featuring District Supply & Provision Co in Downtown Hagerstown.

This dinner celebrated agriculture in Washington County by utilizing fresh, locally grown ingredients. Each course was thoughtfully paired with beer or wine from local breweries and wineries. A highlight of the evening was the guest speaker, Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks, who emphasized the importance of agriculture in the county.

This Fall, Leadership Washington County initiated two networking connection groups for Graduate Members.

These monthly gatherings aim to foster

deeper connections among graduate members beyond their professional titles. The goal is to create a sense of belonging and comfort within the LWC community as members continually explore and learn about Washington County. In the coming months, LWC has three exciting graduate events lined up.

In November, they will host the “Best Lunch Ever” series featuring the new Meritus School of Osteopathic Medicine.

December brings a partnership with Chick-Fil-A for a behind-the-scenes tour and breakfast at their new Sharpsburg Pike location. Finally, the LWC Holiday party on December 14 will include the announcement of the winners of the Get Out of Town Raffle.

If you’re interested in purchasing a ticket for $20, or two for $35, you can do so by visiting leadershipwashingtoncounty.org/ get-out-of-town-raffle-2023.

This raffle not only promises exciting prizes but also contributes to the growth and development of future leaders in Washington County.

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

AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023 35

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Meet Some Old Friends at the Museum Over the Holidays (Like The Cat in the Hat, Stuart Little and Dick and Jane) Written by Sarah J. Hall

T

his holiday season the museum has planned a wide assortment of fun, fascinating, festive, and family-friendly offerings. Be sure to make time to visit with your “peeps,” or take an hour for yourself at this busy time of the year.

Come shopping at the Treasure Sale!

Friday, Nov. 3, is the preview night for early access shopping this year.

Fans of vintage goods and supporting the art museum can attend this special evening event for $35 per person and have the first opportunity to see this year’s assortment of treasures. Call 301-739-5727 for reservations. I promise not to elbow you away from any of my favorites. The sale continues Saturday Nov. 4, Sunday, Nov. 5, and Tuesday Nov.7. Visit wcmfa.org/treasure-sale for hours and details.

A tableau from the museum’s 2022 Treasure Sale. COURTESY OF MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS

Meet Picasso: a Master of Modernism

Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881-1973), Head of a Young Girl, 1945, Lithograph on Arches paper. Collection Timothy Collins.

Opening to the public Saturday, Nov. 11, “Picasso on Paper: The Artist as Printmaker, 1923-1972” (through March 3, 2024) brings to Hagerstown a connoisseur’s print collection — demonstrating Pablo Picasso’s (1881-1973) inimitable mastery of the print medium. Often described as the most innovative printmaker since Rembrandt, this exhibition reveals his skill, experimentation, restless ambition, collaborations with printmakers and publishers, and hints of his turbulent and controversial private life. Excited about Picasso coming to Hagerstown? Join us for the opening party, Thursday, Nov. 9 at 6 p.m. and watch our website, wcmfa.org, for related classes and programs.

COURTESY OF MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS

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Be Chic and Learn Local History For those of you who haven’t made it in to see our special Claire McCardell installation (which I wrote about in the summer issue of At Home Places), this selection of fashionable American sportswear designed by the Frederick, Maryland, native remains on display until November 12—after which the light-sensitive textiles go back into storage to help preserve them for future museum visitors, and our Christmas tree will take pride of place at the center of the Schreiber Gallery. (For those of you who want to know geeky museum facts, it is recommended that light-sensitive works like textiles, drawings, photographs, and watercolors spend about 75% of their time in the dark. We carefully track display time to preserve the integrity of materials for as long as possible.)

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT hear about the books and stories that were important to you too, so come and share them with us!

Art experiences contribute to personal happiness and mental well-being — but you don’t need me to tell you that, right? And children who receive art education tend to do better in all academic subjects — so take an art break. See Picasso on Paper. Remember your “Childhood Favorites” in our delightful exhibition of children’s book illustration and enjoy the museum’s own stellar collection.

Remember, this is your museum, and I am personally very excited to both meet old friends and make new friends this holiday season, so please mark your calendars and visit us.

Arnold Lobel (American, 1933-1987), On the Balcony, 1985. Watercolor on paper.

Published in “Whiskers & Rhymes,” Harper Collins, 1988. Art Kandy Collection. COURTESY OF MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS

Bring your extended Thanksgving (or Friendsgiving) Tribe

Dr. Seuss (American, 1904-1981), The Cat in the Hat, 1963. Crayon on paper. Art Kandy Collection. COURTESY OF MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS

Everyone will feel warm, fuzzy, and nostalgic from grandma to the kids who don’t know what nostalgia means, at our family day opening of Childhood Favorites: 100 Years of Children’s Book Illustrations, Saturday, Nov. 25 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (I’m coming in — as are most of our staff — the Saturday after Thanksgiving, so please show up for us!) Join us for story-time, tours, fancy little sandwiches, and lots of happy memories sparked by this exhibition of more than 140 works by more than 60 artists. Can you picture the cover of “Charlotte’s Web”?

If so, you know the work of beloved illustrator Garth Williams (who also illustrated “Stuart Little,” the “Little House on the Prairie” books, and many other beloved classics). Other artists include Dr. Seuss, Maurice Sendak, Tomie dePaola, Rosemary Wells, Arnold and Anita Lobel, Jules Feiffer and more. We’re so excited that we are borrowing the favorite children’s books of our staff and volunteers for a complementary display. We want to

Sarah J. Hall is executive director of Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum Drive.

The museum is open Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m.

The museum is closed Mondays as well as Thanksgiving Day, Black Friday, and New Year’s Eve.

Start your holiday weekends with us!

We’re staying open until 8 p.m.

Fridays, Dec. 1, 8, 15 and 22. Enjoy the lights at City Park and warm up at the museum.

Dec. 1 is City Park Light-up Night Dec. 8 is family night, with a hot chocolate bar and story time in our “Childhood Favorites” exhibition.

Dec. 15 is a little more sophisticated — the 21+ crowd can enjoy mulled wine, charcuterie, and a special tour of “Picasso on Paper.”

Dec. 22 we are having special discounts in our store for last-minute shoppers.

AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023 37

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The Gift…

Hopefully, the Perfect Gift The Gallery Shop at the Washington County Arts Council specializes in one-of-a-kind Written by Mary Anne Burke

I

t has been said that the value of a gift is one’s love and appreciation of the giver. Gifts of art — glass, pottery, paintings, books and more — are especially valued gifts.

Giving a gift of art makes a personal connection between the artist, the giver, and the receiver. The artist and receiver may never meet but a personal bond has been made by the thoughtfulness of the giver.

The Washington County Arts Council located in downtown Hagerstown is the perfect place to make those connections. The Gallery Shop, representing over 170 artists, is where each piece of art is unique and locally made. Your gifts from The Gallery Shop will be distinctive and one of a kind, and definitely not a generic gift.

Gifting from local artists is often the best way to assure your giftee that he or she is receiving something they may not have purchased for themselves, nor could purchase anywhere else, a true treat. Additionally, when someone displays their new art piece in their home or wears that lovely piece of jewelry, they will think of you each time they use or admire it.

And, when supporting local artists, you will know that this is a wonderful way to make their holidays better as well as your own. “Find Something That Says Something” has been the motto of the Washington County Arts Council (WCAC) Gallery Shop.

If you are still looking for a one-of-a-kind gift idea, consider gifting your family and friends, tickets to the Arts Council’s, “The Art of Cooking.” Now in its 14th year, your guests will be treated by local “celebrity chefs” demonstrating their culinary skills, sharing their favorite recipes, along with delicious foods and selected wines. The January 2024 celebrity chefs are your friends and neighbors: Bob and Jan Cirincione; Aaron and Jessica George; Cody Hill and Jill Colbert; and Matt and Bernadette Wagner.

38 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

Sarah Hall, Executive Director of the Museum of Fine Arts Washington County, and her husband Jamie Gruzska, will be jurors at this year’s Community Art Exhibition in December.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Community Art Exhibition

Before the holidays, join the Arts Council for its Annual Community Art Exhibition Opening Reception on Thursday, December 7, 2023, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Artists working in many mediums will have submitted their best new works for this popular juried community art exhibit which will be on display virtually and in the Gallery from December 7, 2023, through January 2, 2024. Prizes have been sponsored by the Hagerstown Arts and Entertainment District with support from the City of Hagerstown.

Noted jurors are Sarah Hall, the executive Director of the Museum of Fine Arts Washington County, whose educational background includes graduate work in media study, film history, creative writing, and nonprofit organizational, and her husband Jamie Gruzska, who teaches photography and is the administrator for Carnegie Mellon University’s interdisciplinary photo program.

Visit the Washington County Arts Council website at washingtoncountyarts.com Shop at the Arts Council’s online store at store.washingtoncountyarts.com

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

Find arts events at washingtoncountyarts.com/events

AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023 39

MANAGE YOUR MONEY

Start your holiday financial plan now Written by Jacob W. Barr

T

he holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and giving. It’s a time when families and friends come together to create lasting memories, exchange gifts, and embark on journeys to cherished destinations.

However, the financial strain of holiday expenses, including gifts and travel, can be overwhelming if not planned for in advance.

Holiday expenses can add up quickly, and failing to plan for them can lead to financial stress and debt, and cast a shadow over the holiday festivities.

Financial planning is the key to enjoying the holidays without compromising your financial stability. Here’s why it’s so crucial: Budgeting: Planning ahead allows you to set a budget for both gifts and travel. This helps you allocate your funds wisely and helps to keep your spending on track.

Reducing Stress: Knowing that you have a financial plan in place can alleviate stress and anxiety when it comes to spending on gifts and travel, allowing you to focus more on enjoying the holidays.

Avoiding Debt: By budgeting and saving in advance, you can avoid accumulating holiday-related debt, which can take months or even years to pay off.

Setting Realistic Expectations: Planning ahead and looking at your financial situation helps you set realistic expectations for what you can afford, reducing the pressure to overspend to meet societal or family expectations.

Maintaining Financial Goals: Your financial goals and priorities should not be sidelined during the holidays. A

well-structured plan allows you to maintain your financial objectives such as saving and planning for retirement, while still celebrating the season.

There are many ways to financially plan for the holidays and the travel that comes with it to make sure that we are sticking to a plan that fits within our budgets, while still being able to enjoy the holiday season. Here are a few tips to help stay on track during all the hustle and bustle of the holidays.

Start Early: The earlier you begin planning and saving, the better. Ideally, start planning for the holiday season several months in advance. This spreads expenses over a longer period, reducing the financial burden.

Create a Budget: Determine how much you can comfortably afford to spend on gifts and travel. Be realistic, factoring in your income, savings, and any existing debts or expenses.

Make a Gift List: Create a list of all the people you intend to buy gifts for and assign a budget to each person. This will help you stay organized so you don’t overspend on any one individual.

Shop Smart: Look for sales, discounts, and promotions throughout the year rather than waiting for the holiday rush. Consider shopping during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or other major sales events to get the best deals on gifts.

Consider Homemade Gifts: If you have creative talents, consider making personalized, meaningful and cost-effective gifts for your loved ones.

Travel Flexibility: When planning holiday travel, be flexible with your dates. Prices for flights and accommodations can vary significantly depending

on when you book and when you plan to travel. Use fare comparison websites and apps to find the best deals.

Loyalty Programs and Rewards: If you have frequent flyer miles or credit card rewards, this is the time to use them. Many credit cards offer cashback or travel rewards.

Set Up a Dedicated Savings Account: Consider opening a separate savings account specifically for holiday expenses. This allows you to keep your holiday funds separate from your regular savings and checking accounts, reducing the temptation to dip into those funds for non-holiday expenses.

Automate Savings: Set up automatic transfers to your holiday savings account each month. This ensures that you save for holiday expenses without even thinking about it.

Track Expenses: Keep a record of your holiday spending to stay within your budget. Smartphone apps and spreadsheets help to easily track expenditures.

Reevaluate Your Plans: If you find your budget is too tight or expenses have increased unexpectedly, be willing to adjust. This might mean scaling back on gifts or travel options.

Remember, the holiday season is about more than material gifts; it is about the joy of giving and spending quality time with those you care about most.

With proper financial planning, you can make the most of this special time of year while safeguarding your financial well-being.

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

40 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | HOLIDAY 2023

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