At Home Places, Winter 2022

SVP/Residential Lending jmenard@cnb.bank NMLS #525877

Dunn Mortgage Banker mdunn@cnb.bank NMLS #520134

NMLS #2041543

Just like the Meritus Healthcare Foundation, CNB is focused on our communities. We believe that our communities are strengthened through a dedicated effort towards growth in many critical areas and we are proud to support the Meritus Healthcare Foundation and many other community-centric organizations throughout our region. CNB Bank. We’re right here.

Trust the professionals

For many years, our team of mortgage professionals have been the standard of excellence in our region.

Getting you the financial products and services you need in a quick and easy manner is our focus.

CNB Bank. We’re right here.

John Menard

Meghan

Samantha Mellott Mortgage Banker smellott@cnb.bank

A HERALD-MAIL MEDIA PUBLICATION

Volume 10, Issue 2

ISSUE EDITOR Glenn Garvie

DESIGN EDITOR/LAYOUT Kathryn Biek Brianna Fredericks

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jacob W. Barr, Tara Bockstanz, Mary Anne Burke, V. Craig Campbell Jr., Emily Collingham, Tim Fisher, Linda Harkcom, Sarah J. Hall, Huntre Keip, Paulette Lee, Sandie Lynch, Lisa McCoy, Roxann Miller, Sarah Nadeau, Joseph Ritacco, Tricia Lynn Strader, 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

© 2022 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

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next issue of At Home

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FROM THE COVER

Belle Jewelers Is the Area’s Diamond Destination

Family-owned business can help make the moment perfect

Written by Leslie Perlmutter

Belle Jewelers, an integral part of the Chambersburg community for over 76 years, remains the trusted jeweler of choice for generations of families. The store is renowned for its brilliant diamonds, beautiful fine jewelry, elegant watches, treasured gifts, custom made styles and expert jewelry repairs. The Stinger family own and run Belle Jewelers, and they are proud of the store’s reputation for personalized service, attention to detail and integrity.

For many of their customers, the selection of an engagement ring is the most important jewelry purchase they will make in their lifetimes, and the Stingers are honored to be an integral part of the decision. Throughout the years, Lori, Gary and Cody have developed relationships with their customers. The family is gratified that they can ease concerns and simplify the process; customers already know that they can trust the Stingers’ expertise, advice and reputation.

Lori remarks, “We know that picking out an engagement ring can be stressful, so when we help an individual or couples, we do our best to make it as fun and stress-free as possible. Part of getting engaged is the ring; knowing that we helped our customers design the perfect ring from Belle Jewelers is a rewarding feeling!”

Cody adds, “We advise those purchasing an engagement ring to be consistent with what their partner wants with regard to the shape, size and style of the ring. The engagement is a huge moment in both peoples’ lives, and the right ring

960 Norland Ave. Chambersburg, PA 17201 (717) 264-9516 contactus@belle-jewelers.com www.belle-jewelers.com

Store Hours: Monday-Friday, 10am - 6pm Saturday, 10am - 4pm Sunday, Closed

makes the moment perfect.”

Belle Jewelers is the area’s largest diamond destination, and the store offers an unparalleled selection of gemstones. This selection includes lab grown diamonds, which are surging in popularity nationwide across every price point. Lori explains, “They offer an alternative to potential buyers and customers who are looking to get a lot of bang for their buck. We compare it to the in vitro process – at the end of the day, the result is the same, but the process of getting to the end result is a bit different.”

The Stingers know that their customers have many options of places to purchase jewelry, including engagement rings and wedding bands, and they are gratified that they are widely acknowledged as the best. They know that their reputation is well earned. Gary emphasizes, “We are family-owned and have been since 1946. We live within the community. We are a store where we come to know your name and events happening within your life. You are not just a number like at a big box store. We ask about the engagement, weddings, birthdays and any other major event because we get to know our customers. It isn’t just an engagement ring — it is also a relationship that we are starting when that ring is chosen.”

The Stingers and their staff nurture those relationships; the service after the sale is just as important as the service before the purchase. They offer cleaning and care, as well as free service where they will annually check the prongs on each ring to ensure that no gemstones are lost. Each ring and each family is important to Belle Jewelers.

Hours: Wednesday–Saturday 10:00 AM–4:00

Shopkeeper: Chris Johnston

Hours: Wednesday–Saturday 10:00 AM–4:00 PM

136 E. Baltimore Street, Greencastle, PA 17225 717.597.9991

FROM THE EDITOR

It’s the start of a new year, and outside of having to train yourself to write “2023” on things, there are endless opportunities for the future.

If you’re part of an engaged couple, or thinking of becoming one, we offer a series of tips and trivia for the bride-and-groomto-be as they plan ahead for that special wedding day. We hope that our pages of advice, whether it’s about floral arrangements or even a music playlist, provide a helpful overview to getting started on your new life together.

For many, the start of a new year signals a logical time to consider and welcome changes that have been otherwise ignored the year before – achieving better health, introducing challenging personal goals, pursuing long-ignored hobbies.

Or what about starting a home-design project? In this issue, we feature Sahand Miraminy who has taken on the ambitious task of restoring the glorious Harriet Lane Mansion in Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, and with outstanding results.

If that’s out of your wheelhouse, maybe some subtler home design changes make more sense, the kind you’ll find at the three local businesses run by four Washington County women profiled in our feature about “Minding Your Own Business.”

Another option is to try a new creative outlet, one of which is perfect for seniors who’d like to flex their vocal cords by singing with multi-part harmonies with the Encore chorales, just one of many groups bringing their music to special events.

And of course, there’s always a new experience when learning to cook, and the Washington County Arts Council is poised to present its annual Art of Cooking evening featuring learned chefs who will spill the beans on their secrets in the kitchen.

Wishing a happy, healthy and prosperous new year to all.

Glenn Garvie Issue Editor

WINTER WONDERLAND

The stately Gov. Hamilton Oak Hill residence braves an icy winter, while a local child and a trusty cat explore the snow-covered roadway nearby, in this undated image, circa 1935 or earlier. Once labeled as Duhurst Park, the home and its

surrounding area at 821 The Terrace later became known as Oak Hill. But around Hagerstown, it’s often simply referred to as the Hamilton House, because it had once belonged to William T. Hamilton, Maryland’s 38th governor.

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

COURTESY OF WASHINGTON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Popular and lasting wedding traditions

Many couples feel that these customs make their weddings more fun

Written by METRO SERVICES

Weddings are steeped in tradition. Some of those traditions may be exclusive to particular families, but many others are embraced by families of various backgrounds.

Couples needn’t feel beholden to popular wedding traditions, but some may feel that these customs make their weddings more fun and serve as a great way to connect their ceremonies with those of their parents, grandparents and possibly even their ancestors.

Old, new, borrowed, blue

The rhyme “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” is likely familiar to people about to get married. This traditional rhyme has existed for centuries and refers to items a bride should wear and keep with her on her wedding day. The old alludes to a bride’s past, the new refers to her future, the borrowed is intended to be something borrowed from a married couple or bride, and the blue is a symbol of purity, love and fidelity. These items are traditionally given to the bride-to-be by family members or female friends who are already married.

Bridal veil

It’s now up to brides if they want to wear a veil on their wedding day, but it was once a tradition all brides adhered to. Some trace the tradition back to ancient Greece, while others suggest the tradition began in the days of the Roman Empire. Veils were believed to

shield brides from evil spirits on her wedding day, thus paving the way for a healthy and happy future. Many brides still wear veils today, though likely due more to their aesthetic appeal than out of a belief that the veil will ward off evil spirits. Some brides still use veils to cover their face as they walk up the aisle, while others flip the veil over their heads.

Gifting knives

Perhaps one of the lesser known superstitions surrounding weddings, giving knives as a wedding gift is a no-no for some people. The origins of this superstition are uncertain, but people who abide by this tradition feel that knives are symbolic of a broken relationship. That would likely come as a surprise to the many engaged couples who have a set of knives on their wedding registries.

Carrying the bride over the threshold

Historians trace this tradition, which Hollywood has undoubtedly helped to keep alive, all the way back to medieval Europe. Also inspired by a bride’s perceived vulnerability to evil spirits, the tradition of a groom carrying his bride over the threshold into their new home was believed to keep the spirits form entering the home through the soles of the bride’s feet.

Breaking glass

Couples break glass for different reasons on their wedding days. Within the Jewish faith, one member of the couple will stomp on a carefully wrapped glass to serve as a reminder of the destruction of the Jewish temples and to inspire reflection among those in attendance. Italian newlyweds also may smash glass, but they’ll do it with a little more gusto. Local tradition in Italy dictated that, at the end of the wedding, the newly married couple would smash a wine glass. Folklore suggests that the number of pieces the glass breaks into indicates how many

years the couple will stay together. Tradition is part and parcel of many weddings. Some traditions are more solemn than others, but all can add something meaningful, dramatic and even a little fun to the ceremony.

The tradition behind bridal veils

Though couples can plan wedding ceremonies and receptions how they see fit, many weddings are steeped in tradition, some of which may be more subtle than others. One longstanding wedding tradition revolves around a bride’s attire. Historians differ regarding the origins of the bridal veil, but some trace this tradition all the way back to Ancient Greece. Others suggest bridal veils were first popularized within the Roman Empire by people who believed that the veil protected the bride from evil spirits as she walked down the aisle. Traditions surrounding bridal veils even differ within various faiths, so the veil may signify one thing at a Jewish wedding and something entirely different at a Christian ceremony. Veils also have long been seen by some as symbolic of purity. Despite their long-held position in wedding lore and tradition, veils are no longer seen as a must-have. Nor are brides who choose to wear a veil beholden to having it cover their face as they walk down the aisle. In fact, many modern brides now flip their veils over their head as they walk down the aisle en route to saying, “I do.” Regardless of how brides who opt for veils choose to wear them, there’s no denying the enduring popularity of this tradition.

How to build a wedding budget without breaking the bank

Written by METRO SERVICES

Wedding planning is a unique experience unlike any endeavor most couples will ever encounter. Much effort goes into planning a wedding, and that includes building a budget that ensures the big day will be fun without breaking the bank.

Most couples planning a wedding have never tied the knot before, so it can be difficult to determine a reasonable amount to spend. It’s easy to go overboard when planning a wedding, and couples may find their list of wants and, consequently, their expenses, growing as they get into the weeds of wedding planning. Though it might require some difficult decisions, couples can keep these tips in mind so they can build a wedding budget that won’t land them in debt after saying, “I do.”

• Determine funding. The days when a bride’s parents would finance the wedding entirely on their own are largely a thing of the past. According to a recent WeddingWire Newlywed Report, parents now pay for 52 percent of wedding expenses. As couples begin establishing a wedding budget, it’s imperative that they first determine who, if anyone, will be helping them finance the big day. Fifty-two percent of wedding expenses is a significant amount of money, but in that scenario, couples will still need to come up with roughly half of the money needed to fund their weddings. Couples without substantial savings may be forced to cut back in order to avoid beginning their life as a married couple in debt.

• Make a list of potential expenses. Location will be a significant factor when determining

potential expenses. For example, a 2022 ValuePenguin analysis of data from The Wedding Report found that the average wedding in Massachusetts cost roughly $30,500 in 2020, while couples tying the knot in Arkansas spent around $12,500 on their weddings. With such wild fluctuations, it’s important that couples get an accurate estimate of how much it may cost them to get married in a given city. Couples who met in a city and still live in a city but grew up in a suburb might save a considerable sum by getting married in their hometowns. Compare and contrast prices in locales you’re considering, and then build your budget accordingly. This can help you avoid sticker shock and going over budget. Notable expenses to budget include the venue, attire (i.e., wedding dress and tuxedo rental), hairstyle and makeup, entertainment, photography, and transportation, among others.

• Make a list of what’s most important. Most couples will have to compromise in order to avoid taking

on debt to finance their weddings. An earnest discussion about what’s most important to each person can ensure you both get what you want. Each person can make a list of their priorities, ranking them from most important to least important. Once lists are shared, couples can see where their priorities converge and where they diverge. Any items that rank low on each person’s list of priorities can be afforded less funding, while those that are high on each list can take up more of the budget, if necessary.

• Commit to a limit before spending a dime. Committing to a limit before spending a dime can help couples keep wedding costs more manageable. Once that number is defined, couples can then work within its parameters, which can make potentially difficult decisions a little easier by narrowing options at a time when options can seem endless.

A well-planned budget can be just what couples need to begin married life on strong financial footing.

Couples can keep these tips in mind so they can build a wedding budget that won’t land them in debt after saying, “I do.”

Explore various wedding styles during planning

Written by METRO SERVICES

Every wedding is different, even if many share some common components. As couples plan their weddings, learning about some popular wedding styles can help them create a ceremony that suits them.

Classic wedding

Classic weddings are the storybook traditional weddings that many people dream about for years. Key elements include a tuxedo for the groom and a white gown for the bride. Formal attire is reserved for the rest of the wedding party. The ceremony is conducted in a place of worship before everyone retires to a fancy catering hall for the reception. Traditional weddings also may include the time-honored customs like toasts, cake cutting, bouquet toss, and parent-child dances.

Beach wedding

Beach weddings often are casual, laid back affairs. Dresses may be less structured and flow with sea breezes, while guys may even don shorts with linen shirts or jackets. Guests can expect the party to be much more free-flowing and the traditions of classic weddings may not be part of the celebration.

Bohemian wedding

Free-spirited individuals may dive head first into a bohemian style wedding. According to wedding planner David Tutera, a boho wedding is casual and comfortable. It tends to come off chic but appears that way with minimal effort. Decor is typically humble and blends harmoniously with nature. A boho wedding may take place outdoors or in another less traditional venue, such as a farmhouse or botanical garden. Wedding party attire may be mismatched and showcase each person’s individual style.

As couples plan their weddings, learning about some popular wedding styles can help them create a ceremony that suits them.

Modern wedding

Brides and grooms who crave contemporary and current trends may prefer a modern wedding. Graphic color schemes, clean lines and minimalistic flowers might be part of a modern wedding. Attire may be angular and edgy, and the venue may run the gamut from sleek museum to a city rooftop.

Destination wedding

Couples who love to travel and don’t want to worry about the minutiae of wedding planning may find a destination wedding is a good fit. Destination weddings last more than one day and focus on relaxation, activities and lots of fun. Destination weddings tend to be less formal and less traditional than classic weddings. Due to the remote locations, destination weddings also can be smaller and more intimate, as many invitees may be unable to attend. Yet those who can attend often get to enjoy tropical islands or mountain retreats.

Wedding styles are as unique as the people getting married. Choosing a theme that has the right feeling can help couples make the most of their special days.

How to pick the perfect wedding dress

Find a look that makes that big day even more special

Written by METRO SERVICES

Planning a wedding requires making many different decisions. The choice of wedding attire is among the most crucial decisions that couples must make. Whether the wedding is traditional or customized to suit couples’ personalities, brides and grooms want to look their best when they say, “I do.”

Many brides-to-be spend a significant amount of time looking for their ideal wedding dresses. What defines the right gown depends on personal preference and is unique to the person doing the search. For example, a dress that sets a fairy tale scene for one bride may not necessarily align with the tastes of another. According to Bridal Atelier, the average bride-to-be tries on

try three to seven dresses before finding the right one. The following tips can help those shopping for dresses find a look that makes their big day even more special.

Don’t get hung up on perfection

Many brides get caught up as they search for the one dress they consider perfect. No dress is likely to check every box. Getting hung up on a desire to find a dress that has it all may make it hard to see the beauty in other dresses. Remember, with the talents of an experienced tailor or seamstress, most dresses can be tweaked to suit your vision of the ideal gown.

Consider the season

Getting married during the hazy and humid days of summer is an entirely

different experience than tying the knot during the heart of winter. The fabric of the wedding dress should complement the season, whether it’s lightweight and breezy for a warm day, or more substantial and cozy when darting to the ceremony in snowfall.

Flatter your figure

Chances are brides-to-be know which cuts and styles are most flattering. Mimic those style choices in the wedding dress. If you want to take focus off of full hips, choose a basque or asymmetrical waistline. Gowns with substantial straps or higher necklines may be better if you have a larger chest. Sheath and mermaid style gowns are options if you are confident with your figure and want to show off your curves.

Try a bit of this and that Don’t go into a wedding dress appointment with firm parameters. Although you may have a ball gown style in mind, after trying on other options something with a less voluminous silhouette may actually catch your eye. Many brides also automatically defer to strapless gowns, when various straps and sleeves can be very appealing.

Arrive with a firm budget

Weddings can be costly. It’s important to set a budget for the wedding dress just as you will with other expenses. There are plenty of dress designers across a wide spectrum of price points. A willingness to consider and ultimately purchase a less costly dress can help you stay on budget.

Browsing through magazines and looking online can provide wedding dress inspiration as well. Also, when in doubt, defer to the experts at bridal shops who have experience choosing dresses that brides are inclined to love.

How to take the hectic out of your wedding day

Weddings are among the most complex events many people will ever plan. Couples often try to go the extra mile in an effort to make the day memorable for themselves and their guests. That pressure can make a wedding day feel a little frenzied. Thankfully, there are various ways to ensure the vibe of the big day is happy and not hectic.

Hire a wedding planner/coordinator

Leaving the nitty gritty to a professional wedding planner takes a lot of pressure off of couples. The renowned wedding resource The Knot says wedding planners are clued into everything there is to know about a wedding and they can be tapped to take care of just about anything on couples’ to-do list.

Consider a package deal

All-inclusive resorts are popular vacation spots because variables like entertainment, lodging, food, drinks, and more is all taken care of, leaving vacationers with little to do other than show up and relax. Couples can apply that same approach on their wedding day. Host the ceremony and recep-

Wedding Venue

tion at the same site, which takes the potentially problematic issue of getting guests to and fro out of the equation. Some venues may even provide in-house vendors like photographers and florists. Such vendors’ familiarity with the venue reduces the risk of surprises that can derail wedding day schedules.

Pick your priorities

Avoid getting bogged down on a million details by making a list of your priorities when planning. Couples can revisit this list a couple of days before their wedding so they remember what’s most important to them on the big day. This refresher can ensure couples don’t get too concerned if minor issues arise during their big day, helping them remain calm and keeping a focus on all the fun to be had during the day. It’s easy for couples to feel a little overwhelmed on their wedding day. Some simple strategies can take the hectic out of couples’ wedding day and ensure they keep their focus on one another and their loved ones.

How to curate your reception playlist

Written by METRO SERVICES

After a formal wedding ceremony, complete with processionals and “I dos,” comes the part of a wedding that enables the happy couple to brush off the last vestiges of jitters and celebrate. A wedding reception marks the culmination of months or even years of planning. Oftentimes a hundred guests or more gather to dine, dance and toast to the prosperity of the newlyweds.

Certain components of a reception will prove more memorable than others. Food is one such element. The other component that tends to make a lasting impression is the music, which means couples curating reception playlists should do so with care and consideration.

Deejays and live bands can help couples choose music that fits the mood. But couples also can consider these tips when curating their reception playlists.

• Calculate your needs. Couples may wonder just how many songs they need for a standard reception. Unless you’re working with extra-long songs, like “Paradise by the Dashboard Light” or “Bohemian Rhapsody,” most songs are around three minutes long. That means for a four-hour reception you’ll need roughly 80 songs. However, plan for moments such as speeches/ toasts and other breaks.

• Pair songs with key elements. Traditional weddings have certain mini-events within the receptions. Music enhances these moments. Jot down ideas for the following components:

- Bridal party entrance

- Couples’ entrance

- First dance (wedding song)

- Mother/son, father/daughter

dances

- Cake cutting song

- Garter/bouquet toss songs

- Spotlight dance

- Any other special element

• Select calm dinner music. After a day rushing around, most guests are looking forward to sitting down, conversing and, of course, eating. Cocktail hour and dinner music should be at a low volume and not too fastpaced. It certainly shouldn’t drown out conversation.

Musician Peter Lee Johnson performs violin covers of popular Top 40 songs, and his music may be an option when choosing songs to accompany food service. Postmodern Jukebox is a group of musicians who take modern songs and give them a bygone flair. Their tunes also can be fitting.

• Tie the music to the theme. Weddings that follow a specific theme, such as a beach wedding, can be enhanced by music that coordinates to that theme.

Think steel drum bands, Hawaiian stylings or even Beach Boys surfing songs.

• Be mindful of older guests. Some seniors may appreciate modern music, but they also may want to hear songs

from the era when they were growing up. Pepper the song list with options across various decades to keep as many people on the dance floor as possible.

• Select a classic first dance song. Some couples opt to go trendy when selecting their wedding songs. However, certain songs have withstood the test of time. Such options include “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You,” “Here and Now,” “Stand by Me,” “Amazed,” or “Just the Way You Are.”

These tips can help any couples put together a wedding reception playlist that will help to create a memorable celebration.

A guide to wedding day floral arrangements

Written by METRO SERVICES

Various elements come together to complete a wedding day visual. Floral arrangements are one such component that can create a special and awe-inspiring ambiance.

Flowers appeal to at least three of the senses. Their delicate aroma can help a venue smell fresh and inviting. And it’s hard to deny the visual appeal of a stunning floral arrangement. There are colors, sizes, textures, and much more that can cater to any theme. In addition, flowers can add a tactile element, even if guests do not going around touching the blooms.

Flowers convey so much during weddings that it’s important to make finding a florist a priority, according to the wedding resource The Knot. The following is a guide to understanding floral arrangements that may be included in a wedding.

Bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres

The wedding party, bride, groom, and parents of the couple are set apart from others at the wedding ceremony by the special flowers on their attire and in their hands, among other indicators. Boutonnieres are a single bud pinned to the left side of a gentleman’s jacket. Corsages can be attached to a dress, but are now often worn on the wrist. Bouquets are held in hand. They can be a few flowers gathered together, or more extensive displays. Bouquets may feature bare stems, or stems may be bound and hidden beneath ribbon and fabric.

Some couples also have a small tossing bouquet to use later in the day. Flower petals for a flower girl to drop down the aisle also may be part of the floral plan.

Ceremony flowers

Guests often are first introduced to floral arrangements at the wedding ceremony. Potted or vase-encased flowers may bookend the couple at the altar. Seats or pews may be adorned with flower sprays to draw attention to the aisle, known as aisle markers. These are subtle choices that enhance the ceremony space.

Reception components

Flowers may truly shine during the reception. They’re one of the most important components when decorating the space. Flowers serve as centerpieces, so the guest list and the number of tables will dictate how many centerpieces are required. These centerpieces can be elaborate or simply a few loose flowers in vases. Florists can customize the look depending on couples’ budgets. Some additional reception flowers can include installations on

arches or on anything hanging like a floral backdrop for photo opportunities.

Tips and tricks

Couples should create a list of everywhere they would like to use flowers and present it, along with magazine clippings or planning boards, to show florists what they have in mind when shopping services, according to Hummingbird Wedding Advice.

A 2021 survey from The Knot reported that the average cost for wedding flowers was $2,300. It’s important to set a strict budget so florists can present ideas that are in line with what couples can spend. Many expensive looks can be replicated with in-season flowers or less costly alternatives.

Flowers are an important part of the wedding day and should be incorporated into couples’ budgets.

Novel gifts for bridesmaids

Written by METRO SERVICES

Brides- and grooms-to-be select people who are near and dear to their hearts to be special parts of their momentous days. So the chance to participate in a friend’s or family member’s wedding is a great honor.

A wedding party plays a key role in both the ceremony and reception. Participants do everything from helping couples make decisions to addressing invitations to providing emotional support. As so much is asked of the wedding party — particularly the maid/matron of honor and bridesmaids — it’s customary to bestow gifts on those people who devoted so much time and effort to the wedding. These potential bridesmaid gifts can serve as a thoughtful and unique to way to thank bridesmaids for all that they’ve done.

• Photo books: Gift the bridesmaids with photo books of carefully curated photographs taken throughout the wedding planning experience. Pepper the books with other photos, such as images of you with the bridesmaids at fun moments throughout your lives together.

• Portrait wine or champagne glasses: Beverage glasses customized with the bridesmaids’ likenesses painted or printed onto them make for great gifts. Bridesmaids will enjoy sipping their favorite drinks in special glasses for years to come.

• Personalized phone cases: Who doesn’t rely on their mobile phones these days? Treat your bridesmaids to something special with colorful phone cases with their names embossed or printed on the outsides.

• Wellness or spa gift card: After

all of the running around for the wedding, bridesmaids may need a little extra pampering. Gift cards to a local spa can fit the bill.

• Birthstone jewelry: Necklaces, rings or earrings become that much more special when they’re customized to the recipients. Purchase jewelry with your bridesmaids’ birthstones so they’ll be as unique as each woman.

• Friendship bracelets: Gift each bridesmaid with beaded friendship bracelets that features all of the ladies’ initials. Be sure to keep one for

yourself, and you all can enjoy nights on the town showcasing your special bracelets.

• Monogrammed robes or purses: A customized pocketbook, robe or another item bridesmaids will use every day can make for an extra-special item that will serve as a daily reminder of how much you appreciate them.

Bridesmaid gifts are a great way for brides to thank their bridesmaids for all that they’ve done to make a couple’s wedding day special.

GETTY IMAGES

Modern-day etiquette involves thinking about others

Written by HUNTRE KEIP

Etiquette is often misinterpreted as a “stuffy” concept of the past but understanding the basics of good manners is more important now than ever.

According to Judy Larkin, owner of The Larkin Tea Co., etiquette involves not only thinking about oneself, but others.

“The golden rule of etiquette is to treat people the way you would like to be treated,” Larkin says. “A lot of people think etiquette is ‘old-time’ or stuffy, but it is just as relevant now as it has ever been.”

Growing up in Manchester, England, Larkin’s family instilled in her the basics of manners. When she moved to the United States with her husband in 1971, she put her knowledge to use and held speaking engagements and etiquette classes for organizations and children’s groups.

While classes are useful, Larkin said a great way for people to understand etiquette is to observe their surroundings.

“As a little girl, my family was strict when it came to manners, but the biggest way I learned was by observing the public and how they behaved,” she says. “For example, holding the door for someone or giving up your seat on public transportation for the elderly or a pregnant woman.”

According to Larkin, etiquette starts during childhood. Children should be reminded to say, “thank you,” eat with proper utensils instead of fingers and hold doors open for family members.

“When parents signed their children up for etiquette classes, I told them they needed to come, too, and they did

not understand why. I said that the children will try to listen to me for an hour, but once the time is up, they will forget about it,” she says. “If the parents took the class with their children, they would be able to remind them of what they are and are not doing outside of the classroom. The constant practice becomes second nature.”

“Anyone can go to afternoon tea, but they must know the etiquette and what is expected, and if they do that, they can comfortably go in any social setting,” Larkin says.

Learning during tea

Larkin’s ideal classroom is a tearoom, where she teaches the importance of posture, how to eat and how to interact with others.

For many, afternoon tea is not a common activity, but it covers the basics of any social event.

“Anyone can go to afternoon tea, but they must know the etiquette and what is expected, and if they do that, they can comfortably go in any social setting,” Larkin says.

Modern-day etiquette is similar to the etiquette taught 50 years ago, but the biggest shift is technology. Larkin said people need to resist the urge to check notifications.

“If someone is constantly on their phone, answering calls or text messages, it can be a slap in the face to the people they are physically with. It sets the tone that the phone is more important than they are,” she says. “It raises the question, ‘How would you like to be treated?’”

Two things that will never go out of style are handshakes and thank-

you notes.

“The concept of shaking hands goes back to the Middle Ages,” Larkin said. “Men would shake hands with the right hand – their sword hand – so when they extended their hands in greeting, it was a sign of peace.”

Larkin insists on shaking hands with a firm grip to serve as a warm welcome.

The classic thank-you note has evolved over the years. In the past, people handwrote letters to thank others for something they did. Now, a thank-you email, text message or call will suffice.

“A handwritten note is the best way to go, but the most important thing is to acknowledge the person who did something nice for you, no matter how you say it,” Larkin says.

Larkin believes etiquette evolves with society, which means the way of learning it will evolve, too.

“Anyone can learn basic etiquette at any age,” she says. “If someone does not want to attend an etiquette class, there are numerous books on the subject, or even go on YouTube. There are many tutorials on etiquette 101.”

But, if someone is interested in participating in an etiquette class, Larkin is more than willing to help. She can be contacted through her website (larkintea.com) or Facebook page (The Larkin Tea Co. LLC).

Judy Larkin, owner of The Larkin Tea Co.

New Year’s Resolution: Organize Your Finances

Written by JACOB W. BARR

When it comes to organization, there are many things we look at. We organize throughout our homes, from rooms to drawers to closets, and don’t forget about organizing that garage and the shed. But one area we may not be as quick to put our organizational skills to work is when organizing finances. However, doing so can have several positives impacts. Not only will this allow for a better understanding of our finances, but it can also allow for less stress and some peace of mind when it comes to managing money and finances. So, what are some ways that can help get those numbers organized?

One of the most important things when organizing your finances is to have a good monthly budget in place and to review it monthly. Even the recurring bills that are in a budget can change from month-to-month (an electric bill is likely to be different in July and December than it is in May and October), so it is important to keep that budget updated and adjust your spending accordingly. But what should you do if you do not have a budget in place currently? While some like to use Excel for establishing a budget, there are also plenty of free online budgeting apps and templates that can be utilized to help understand how and where you are spending your money.

Another good organizational tip is to keep all your bills in one place. While many of us receive our bills online, some invoices still arrive the old-fashioned way – in the mail – and

it is important to make sure that those documents, too, are kept in one place. Property tax and homeowners’ insurance bills are typically paid on an annual or quarterly basis, and are generally received by mail. Occasional expenses, like from a medical test, may come in the mail. Keep your paper bills near wherever you normally write checks or pay bills online. A simple file cabinet or a few folders will do the job to keep things organized. Since most people pay their bills online, it is common to shred or throw away paper statements when they arrive, and rely only on the online records. If you prefer to keep paper records for tax purposes or just for security, file them in the filing system mentioned above, or scan them for storage in an online filing system before shredding them.

If you have money available in your bank account and you don’t have other debit card or expense charges coming through that could cause an overdraft, pay your bills as soon as you get them. Pay attention to paper bills that you usually pay electronically. You do not want to pay a bill twice simply because you received a duplicate by mail.

Make a checklist

Neither mail nor email is perfect, so it is wise to create a checklist at the

beginning of the month listing every bill you are expecting. You can keep it on your desk, bill-paying area, or as a file on your computer. If you share expenses with a spouse or significant other, you can easily bounce a check or debit card payment if you don’t know how much the other has been spending when it comes to accounts that are used jointly. Good communication, record-keeping, and organization is very important when there are multiple people on an account.

One last tip for organizing your finances is to have two different accounts. One should be for discretionary spending and saving, and the other should be strictly for paying monthly bills. This will allow you to have clear boundaries and avoid spending your bill money on a dinner out or shopping.

While there are many tips for keeping your finances organized, these are a good starting point. There is no onesize-fits-all approach for organization, and neither is there for your finances. Determine what works best for your situation and specific needs; however, it is very important to start somewhere when it comes to keeping your finances organized. Otherwise, you may run into some difficult situations that can be very stressful and unpleasant. And remember, organizing can be fun, so enjoy it.

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

Warm Your Heart While You Fill Your Coffee Cup

Written by V. CRAIG CAMPBELL JR.

Jackets, scarves, and gloves are the wardrobe essentials – bundling up to ensure Jack Frost doesn’t chill you to the bone. Winter has arrived and it’s delivered no better of a time to make sure you’re staying warm from the inside out. Nothing a hot cup of joe can’t fix. This is where this season has quickly become our RBR Crews’ favorite.

During the colder months, we get to fill up the cup on crisp mornings for our local community, but with each cup, we get to give back to our international coffee community. Here’s how your cup makes a difference – let’s take a little coffee journey.

Our Ethiopia Natural is a light/ medium roast with a lighter body but it has intense juicy sweetness, and clean aftertaste. The taste of berries is front and center, followed with a milk chocolate and caramel finish. Can you ask for anything more? This warm cup is perfect to start the day or for a midday pick-me-up. While you sip, know that each cup you brew makes a difference in the coffee community. Established in 1999, the Oromia Coffee Farmers’ Cooperative Union has quickly become the largest Fair Trade coffee producer in Ethiopia. The OCFCU was formed when 23,691 members of 35 small

cooperatives came together with the goal of exporting their coffee directly to the specialty market. All six of their Oromia Highland Coffee varieties are grown by indigenous farmers in the southwestern rainforests of Ethiopia at fair trade prices.

Next up, our first direct bean trade with a coffee farmer! El Salvador Cabal has a soft, creamy, nutty flavor which is elevated at a medium roast profile. As the coffee cools, this

Sharing

pairing brings a cup like you’re having a dollop of peanut butter with a drizzle of honey and touch of blueberry jelly. This toasty cup warms you to the core, but has a big impact on your heart too. We are grateful to have this partnership with the Hernandez family. For decades they have been at the mercy of the El Salvadorian state and only getting 90 cents a lb. We are able to increase their price yield by almost 4 times which will greatly enhances their family and community. Craig even had the chance to roast with the family at our RBR roastery shop.

Each of our warm cup coffees knock the chill out of winter, but who knew each sip made such an impact. These are just the stories behind two of the half dozen single origin coffees we have available at any given time. Our coffees seek to make a difference in both our local and international coffee communities. Grab a cup and warm up with us this winter!

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

a cup of coffee with the Hernandez Family at the Hagerstown roastery.

COURTESY OF RIVER BOTTOM ROASTERS

Restoring the Inn at Historic Lane House

Written by ROXANN MILLER

For the past year, Sahand Miraminy, 34, has been painstakingly restoring the historic Harriet Lane Mansion in downtown Mercersburg, Pa., to its former glory, in anticipation of welcoming its first guests to the Inn

at Historic Lane House this fall.

It’s been a labor of love for the Washington, D.C., native, who has done much of the work himself.

Miraminy says he’s always had an interest in history and spent most of his professional life involved with historic house museums.

“I always knew that I wanted to

live in an old house one day, and fix one up,” he says.

But it was a late night of scrolling through what Miraminy called “fantasy houses” on Zillow, a real estate website, at four in the morning that drew him to the Lane House.

“I expanded my search slightly and went into Pennsylvania, and I

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE INN AT HISTORIC LANE HOUSE

Vaun Hawbaker, a local craftsman specializing in historic buildings, restores the facade of Lane House.

Harriet Lane poses in her 1857 inaugural gown. In the new age of photography, her widespread image and European flair resulted in a significantly lowered neckline in American women’s’ fashion.

saw this house and it was immediate kismet,” he remembers.

By 10 a.m. the next morning, Miraminy was in Mercersburg to scope out the property.

“I just fell in love with the house, and I immediately recognized Harriet Lane’s name because I had fixed up a house that she and James Buchanan had used during the summer months in D.C., to use as an event space,” says Miraminy, who works remotely as an event planner in D.C.

He continues: “It was like all the stars had aligned. I already knew who she was. I already admired her, and this house popped up.”

Calling upon his experience with restoring historic homes, working for the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and his college degree in anthropology and archaeology, Miraminy rolled up his sleeves and started to restore the home to its 1828 appearance.

“I do most of the work myself, but a good portion is also done by hired craftsmen in the area, he says.

Cooking the Lane House Way

Harley Street Pudding

This warm and comforting dish is a variation of an old English recipe, enjoyed by Harriet Lane and her uncle James Buchanan in their residence on Harley Street, during their ambassadorial tenure in Queen Victoria’s London court.

3 cups half and half 1/3 cup sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla Pinch of salt 2 teaspoons cinnamon ½ teaspoon nutmeg 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Approximately 6 cups French bread, cubed 3 large eggs, beaten 1/3 cup chopped pecans 2/3 cup raisins

• In a saucepan, heat half and half, sugar, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and butter until ingredients are combined. Set aside to cool. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

• Place French bread cubes in a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle raisins over bread.

• Add beaten eggs to cooled half-and-half mixture and whisk until combined. Pour mixture evenly on top of cubed bread. Allow combined ingredients to sit for 10 minutes, ensuring all bread is soaked. Bake on rack in middle of oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and set. Serve warm.

Miss Lane’s Rose Cookies

During her time as First Lady, Harriet Lane created the White House’s first conservatory and often accessorized her gowns and headpieces with vibrant flowers. These delightful shortbread cookies celebrate Harriet’s love affair with roses and a good tea party.

2 cups all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon salt

1 ½ tablespoons culinary rose petals (dried)

1 cup powdered sugar

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 ½ teaspoons rose water ½ teaspoon vanilla

• Combine flour, salt and rose petals in a bowl. Separately, beat sugar and softened butter with an electric mixer. Add rose water and vanilla. Mix for 30 seconds. Add flour mixture gradually. Shape dough into a flat circle and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least three hours.

• Roll out dough to a 1/3-inch to ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into circles and place on two baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Poke each cookie with about a dozen small holes and bake at 325 degrees for about 22 minutes, or until edges become golden. Remove cookies from trays and cool on wire racks.

Note: Rose water should only list distilled water and roses in the ingredients and can be found online or in most Middle Eastern markets.

With 13-foot-high ceilings in every room, Miraminy joked that it was crucial to get some help painting for the sake of his arms.

The house from the basement to the attic is approximately 10,000 square feet, he says.

Grandest house in the region

At the time of its construction, it was described as the grandest house in the region, Miraminy says.

“It was built at a time when this area was really the frontier, so most of the homes around it were log cabins. So, it sort of loomed over the town and the Lane family, who married into the Buchanan family, controlled a lot of the trade, real estate, and commerce in the area,” Miraminy says.

The house consists of the main

block for the family, a servant’s wing that comes off the house like an L-shape and several outbuildings.

The house has six gracious bedrooms, each with a fireplace and bathroom.

“I’m going to be renting five of the rooms, so the house will have an occupancy of 10 guests a night,” Miraminy says.

Original woodwork, floors

Miraminy is one of only a handful of owners of the Lane House. One of the families, the Weidliches, lived in the home for about 100 years.

Luckily no one has made significant alterations to the house, so all the original woodwork and floors survived, he says.

Nearly everything is original to

The east portion of Lane House’s double Drawing Room.

the historic home, except a room on the first floor that served a variety of functions, including a dry goods store, a hardware store, and an appliance store in the early 1960s, which has since been restored to its former glory by Miraminy.

Right now, Miraminy plans to operate the inn by himself.

“I’m going to be running it and cleaning it and marketing it all by myself. I’m known, in my friends’ group, as a pretty good cook, so I’ll serve a full, proper breakfast to the inn’s guests,” he says.

“I want to create an environment where people come together from all walks of life, have breakfast together,

and meet other people who are staying here – kind of this family house feeling to it,” he says. “In my head, I think of it as almost like Thanksgiving – politics is off the table, there are certain topics that are off limits in the house because I want everyone to have a really great time and enjoy themselves.”

With his relaxed style, sense of humor and wealth of historic knowledge, Miraminy hopes to create a resplendent inn brimming with history.

“Both of Harriet’s parents died in the Lane Mansion, along with several of her siblings. She was essentially orphaned, and she asked her uncle James Buchanan to adopt her, and when he became ambassador to Great Britain, she joined him in England and that’s where she became friends with

Queen Victoria, and became an official consort,” Miraminy says.

When James Buchanan became the 15th president of the United States, Lane served alongside him as first lady.

“In her 20s, she was the youngest first lady. She was kind of the Jackie O of her time – wearing low necklines and starting musical performances and diplomatic dinners at the White House. She even created the White House Conservatory,” Miraminy says.

People don’t really talk about her anymore, and at one point in time, she was the most famous woman in the country, says Miraminy.

“They were naming songs, battleships, and perfumes after her, and there was a whole generation of girls named Harriet Lane in the 1800s. It’s

The dining room at Historic Lane House.

weird how someone could be so popular, and time fades all that away,” he says.

He continues: “But it’s fun because I collect anything that has to do with Harriet Lane. Recently, I got a Harriet Lane cigar box and postcards. It’s fun to see all the history come back to the house and come back to life.”

“My favorite part of all of this is the research and tracking down original furniture and bringing it back to the house and hanging up portraits of people that haven’t been hung up for 200 years,” says Miraminy.

He wants guests at the Inn to enjoy a unique experience – almost like they are staying at a museum.

“I just fell in love with the house, and I immediately recognized Harriet Lane’s name... It was like all the stars had aligned. I already knew who she was. I already admired her, and this house popped up.”

SAHAND MIRAMINY

Owner Sahand Miraminy in the unrestored 3rd level ballroom of Lane House.

“The stuff that’s being put in here is very particular, and I’ve searched far and wide at auctions to track down the stuff. It’s not just an old house, there’s so much history recorded on it and even Harriet Lane visited this place as an old woman – she made pilgrimages here, so it was certainly important to her,” Miraminy says.

Tuscarora Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Chris Ardinger says he can’t wait to see the

economic, tourism and quality of life benefits that The Inn at the Historic Lane House will bring to Franklin County.

“This beautiful piece of history (Lane House) is a huge asset to our community, and once restorations are completed, the world is the limit. In a historic town like Mercersburg, history preservation and business growth can sometimes conflict, in this case, Sahand and his team will bring all of that together,” Ardinger says.

Miraminy says it’s a privilege to live in Mercersburg, a town enmeshed in history.

“My hope is that as I fix up this house, it inspires other people to do it. And folks have been really welcoming and excited that the house is getting the love that it deserves,” Miraminy says.

For information on the Inn at Historic Lane House, go to www.lanehouseinn.com.

The courtyard at Lane House features a heated swimming pool.

Minding Their Own Business

Written by PAULETTE LEE

As the saying goes, “Home is where the heart is”, and for four Washington County women that passion is also their business. They’re doing what they love, and love doing it.

A Place For All Seasons

Kelly Vance, owner of A Place for All Seasons on Potomac Ave in Hagerstown’s North End, originally had her home décor business in Funkstown from 1995 to 2000. She took a break to raise her two daughters, and then re-opened in the new location after her husband found an older building for sale and asked her, “Do you want to go back into business?”

Vance is always re-arranging her store – which has four rooms of seasonal home décor items, plus some jewelry, outerwear and accessories.

She’s meticulous about making her displays attractive and will use unusual materials to add to them, such as pine cones she’ll pick up on walks, or recycling packing materials, using the “peanuts” to replicate snow, or crumpling brown paper to hold an arrangement upright instead of using glue or floral foam. She particularly likes to offer customers ideas for arrangements; for example, “Don’t cut the stems of artificial flowers. Slice open the wrapping tape that holds the ‘picks’ together and then you can bend and re-arrange them.”

A Place for All Seasons has four rooms of seasonal home décor items.

PHOTOS BY PAULETTE LEE

Kelly Vance, owner of A Place for All Seasons in Hagerstown, is a self-confessed one-woman show.

“I love decorating, arranging, buying for the store – it’s all just second nature for me. I talk to wonderful customers and have made great friends. This isn’t work for me, it’s fun!” – Kelly Vance, Owner of A Place

for All Seasons

Vance purchases her wares from shows, never online. “I have to see it, touch it, feel it. I buy what I love. I try to have a mix to accommodate everybody. I don’t want to be so high-end that I can’t accommodate your budget. I’m not an up-seller. If you have a limit, I’ll stay within it.”

Vance’s business is a one-woman show and that’s just the way she wants it.

“I love decorating, arranging, buying for the store – it’s all just second nature for me. I talk to wonderful customers and have made great friends. This isn’t work for me, it’s fun!”

Clover & Ivy

MaryBeth Chang is also a solo business owner, but she’s not a one-woman show, as her gift shop Clover & Ivy on Maugans Avenue in

Hagerstown on the edge of Maugansville, features close to 60 vendors who rent space from her. There’s something for everyone – including separate rooms just for Polish pottery and children’s items.

Clover & Ivy’s MaryBeth Chang offers creations from nearly 60 vendors with a wide variety of styles and products.

There’s something for everyone at Clover & Ivy in Hagerstown, including separate rooms just for Polish pottery and children’s items.

Chang, a crafter and designer of hair products and children’s clothing, started her business in 2021 because, she says, “I got tired of doing craft shows, of being out in the field in the rain”, so she brought along five other crafter friends into her retail venture, which continues to grow as it moves into its second year.

“I make sure I have new items,” she says, “mostly crafters, with a few re-sellers, because I like to find originals.” Chang also has a strong commitment to women business owners,

and points out that all the businesses in the small plaza in which her store is located are women-owned. Her location across from a school and park also helps bring in customers – parents who buy for themselves, for their children, and for others.

With so many vendors’ items on display, Chang has to be diligent about security. One of her security measures is her height. “I’m very tall; none of my displays go over my line of sight, plus, I’m always out on the floor and in the rooms, greeting and talking to people.”

Chang goes out of her way to help her customers and vendors. She’ll research items customers may want

but she doesn’t carry; if needed, she’ll make simple repairs to jewelry she has sold; and she’ll help crafters get into craft shows “if they want to stand out in the field in the rain”, she laughs.

“I love doing this. I just really like that people come in and say there’s nothing like it; it makes me feel good.”

Refined

What makes Denise Nolan and Bobbi Morris feel good is their friendship. The co-owners of Refined (newly branded from Refined & Repurposed) on Pennsylvania Avenue have been in business together since 2007 when they met at their sons’ Sharpsburg Little League games and started a home décor business out of Nolan’s

house. Fifteen years later they’re in a 20,000 square foot facility, juggle both a home furnishings retail and kitchen cabinetry refinishing business – and remain the closest of friends as well as business partners.

“We complement each other,” Morris says. “She’s (referring to Nolan) the idea person, the ‘diver’ who will just go into something and take the risk.” Nolan says of Morris, “She’s the personality, the creative one, the

Refined’s inventory is a curation of what’s trending and what customers want in home decor.

sister I never had.”

In the past decade and a half, Nolan and Morris have gone through a number of growing pains, not the least of which was the recent business name change. They’ve seen highs – such as during the COVID pandemic, when people were spending more time and money on their homes – and they’ve seen lows, too, when people are more concerned with going out and doing things, rather than buying for their

PHOTOS BY PAULETTE LEE

“We went from ‘primitive’ to ‘vintage’ to ‘shabby chic’ and now it’s ‘farmhouse,’ but there are a million trends just within that genre.”

– Bobbi Morris, Co-Owner of Refined

Today, much of the merchandise at Refined is geared toward the popular “farmhouse” trend. homes. The biggest challenges, they say, are keeping up with the trends, knowing what customers want, and they admit to an identity crisis.

“We’ve been ‘Southern modern chic’,” Morris says. “We went from ‘primitive’ to ‘vintage’ to ‘shabby chic’ and now it’s ‘farmhouse,’ but there are a million trends just within that genre.”

There’s also the issue of language. “We need to know,” Nolan adds, “what a customer means when she says she wants a piece of furniture ‘glazed’, or ‘distressed,’ or even ‘white’, as there are at least 80 shades of ‘white’.”

In addition to working together, Morris and Nolan are often out on the

road together, “picking” (looking for products) – going to auctions or visiting other pickers who’ve bought from estate or storage bin sales. It’s all about mixing styles, they say: “You don’t have to pick a lane; you can be all of it. We buy what we love.”

At the end of the day, though, it’s about the two of them. At the end of the day, they’re still talking to each other on the phone, or texting each other. They laugh that they spend more time with each other than with their husbands and children. And if they had to choose between the business and their friendship, they both agree: the friendship would win, hands down.

Denise Nolan and Bobbi Morris, owners of Refined in Hagerstown, have been in business together since 2007.

SING OUT, SENIORS!

With Encore chorales, every member has a voice

(Above) Stephanie Jamieson (far left), 76, of Sharpsburg, has been singing with Encore almost since its inception, as she knew its founder, Jeanne Kelly. She sang first in Washington, D.C., and then sought out the Frederick group when she and her historian husband retired to Washington County. She has been singing tenor with this chorale for three years and loves the challenge of the music, which can often have as many as six parts.

Written by PAULETTE LEE

“Good, good!”

“You’re singing all the right notes, but it’s not musical – which syllable is more important?”

“Can I get more ‘f’ on ‘softly falls’? F’s are really hard, especially with those masks on.”

“More ‘ring’, less ‘out’!”

“Let’s bring that bright tone back!”

With high energy, animated direction, an engaging personality and impressive musical knowledge, Deborah Int Veldt of Hagerstown, conducts two Encore chorales for seniors,

each with approximately 25 members, in Frederick and Gaithersburg.

Encore Creativity for Older Adults, a nonprofit organization based in Annapolis, claims to be the nation’s largest choral organization for adults over the age of 55, with more than a dozen chorales and six rock ‘n’ roll choruses in the metropolitan Baltimore-Washington area, northern Virginia and expanding into other states. Now in its 15th year, Encore has some 2,000 singers nationwide, with new programs – including one for people with early Alzheimer’s – and

PHOTOS BY PAULETTE LEE

together,” she says. “It’s the best part of our lives.” new participants being added all the time. There are two semesters each year, each 10 weeks, costing approximately $185 per semester and all chorales sing the same music – from light pop to classical masterworks to international holiday pieces – that is presented at a semester-end community concert.

Why group singing?

From the organization’s point of view, chorale singing offers camaraderie, gives singers exposure to artistic excellence, teaches vocal and proper breathing techniques, and provides mental, emotional and physical improvements in a caring community setting. Int Veldt, who is the Musical and Choral Director for the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Frederick, Maryland, and who taught music in the Montgomery County public schools, agrees:

“Singing is so good for us on so

many levels,” she says, noting she’s also a member of two choruses herself. “Chorale singing feeds my soul. The choral vibrations get into my body. There’s the actual physics of the effects of music vibrations on ourselves, the healing power of music. It’s the doing of the music that’s the most important part; your body becomes the instrument. No matter what you’re struggling with, go sing in a chorus! You’ll be sending out vibrations to someplace where healing is needed. It’s incredibly powerful.”

John Rutter, an English composer and founder of the Cambridge Singers, is quoted as saying, “When you sing, you express your soul in song, and when you get together with a group of other singers, it becomes more than the sum of the parts. All of those people are pouring out their hearts and souls in perfect harmony, which is kind of an emblem for what we need in

this world, when so much of the world is at odds with itself… to express, in symbolic terms, what it’s like when human beings are in harmony.”

Access is key to Encore’s chorales. There are no auditions and singers don’t have to be experienced. The ability to read music isn’t necessary. Singers are generally seated for their 90-minute rehearsals and may also be seated during performances.

“I’ll listen to your voice,” Int Veldt says, “and by listening, I can quickly figure out where you’ll fit. You don’t have to have a better voice than someone else; plenty of people do. I’ll also work with the older voice. As we age, our tissues dry out and we lose muscle tone, and our vocal chords are controlled by many muscles, so it becomes more difficult to control them. There are ways to adjust, though; there are techniques that can help. What’s important, is that you be there.”

Deborah and her accompanist Nick Int Veldt: The married couple have a long history of making music together. “We adore working

FORGING AHEAD

Local blacksmith makes his mark

Written by TRICIA LYNN STRADER

Blacksmithing seems to be in Zach Shoop’s genes. The owner of Shoop Forge and Ironworks LLC in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, has been working in the age-old trade since 2000.

He became interested while delivering feed to the racetrack at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, when he saw someone shoeing a horse.

He already was a jack-of-all-trades, and had some diesel mechanic, electrical and carpentry certifications.

“I started doing some research and found a horseshoeing school in Smithsburg, not 10 minutes from my house,” Shoop says, referring to Maryland Horseshoeing School. “It was at that time my parents told me that my great- and great-great-grandfathers were both blacksmiths in Pennsylvania.”

Shoop attended the local horseshoeing school in 1999 and started his career in January 2000. Lee Badger from Anvil Works in Hedgesville, West Virginia, is one blacksmith he admires. After learning to shoe horses, he started trying new things.

He makes knives, swords, tools, cutlery, gates, railings and furniture, to name a few items.

Shoop said he can make pretty much anything and does all sorts of repairs. He specializes in commissioned metal art, furniture, interior and exterior architectural accents, and historical preservation.

Zach Shoop working on horseshoe.

COURTESY

He makes his own line of farrier tools and puts computer numerical control (CNC) custom marks on items for other blacksmiths and bladesmiths.

A CNC machine is a computer-controlled mill, Shoop explained. The tool or part is drawn in a CAD (computer-aided design) software program. The operator then sets the tools and paths for the machine to run. The process is commonly used in manufacturing for machining metal and plastic parts.

Some blacksmiths are traditionalists, while others use modern methods like CNC. Shoop considers himself an artisan blacksmith, and he utilizes traditional and modern techniques.

“I will take on any kind of project that’s interesting or that I think will challenge my skills,” he says. “I blend together my knowledge and expertise to provide my customers with unique, custom-designed works of art.”

Shoop sells online and by word of mouth. He can be contacted at 301748-7247; www.shoopforgedesign. com; on Facebook at Shoop Forge and Ironworks LLC; and Shoopforge on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok.

“I will take on any kind of project that’s interesting or that I think will challenge my skills,” he says. “I blend together my knowledge and expertise to provide my customers with unique, custom-designed works of art.”

– Zach Shoop

Finished Shoop Forge tables.

by LINDA HARKCOM

Many think of the Deep Creek Lake area of Garrett County, Maryland, as a summer hot spot, but they might be surprised to know it is actually a four-seasons vacation destination.

“Deep Creek Lake is the most popular tourist attraction in Garrett County, bringing in visitors in the spring, summer and fall, but Garrett County is also home to the state’s only ski resort, Wisp Resort, a

Deep Creek Lake

popular destination for skiers, snowboarders and snowtubers to head for their winter getaways,” says Sarah Duck, Vice President of Tourism and Marketing for the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce.

At 3,900 acres with 65 miles of shoreline, Duck says that Deep Creek Lake offers a wide variety of waterbased activities.

“From boating, fishing, kayaking and tubing to personal watercraft, wakeboarding, swimming and canoeing, Deep Creek Lake offers plenty of on-the-water fun for every member of

the family,” Duck says.

Deep Creek Lake State Park is located in the heart of Garrett County. Katy Barger, Director of the Discovery Center and Park Ranger Lead at Deep Creek Lake State Park, part of the Maryland Park Service, says the park receives more than 1.4 million visitors each year.

“From exploring our reptiles in the Nature Center to fishing our shorelines, Deep Creek Lake State Park offers something for all its visitors,” Barger says.

According to Barger, the park con-

Written

The Lake Pointe Inn is a luxurious bed and breakfast refuge that dates back to the 1890s.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF

Not Just a Summer Destination

tains 1,800 acres of land, including a 112-site campground, a public beach area, 20-mile trail system and the Discovery Center.

“The Discovery Center is a big draw to visitors in the Deep Creek Lake area. The Discovery Center is open all year long, providing activities for visitors, and the opportunity to learn about the history of Deep Creek and local flora and fauna they might encounter,” Barger says.

Just off the Discovery Center, Barger says, visitors can enjoy stopping by the Scales & Tales aviary to visit the park’s avian ambassadors.

“If staff or volunteers are on-site at the aviary, park guests may get the awesome opportunity to watch these birds of prey do their daily training and enrichment,” Barger says.

Deep Creek Lake State Park manages a mile of shoreline along the 3,900-acre man-made lake.

“On any given summer day, you will find many visitors enjoying our two public beaches, picnicking in the shade, playing on our playgrounds and splashing in the water. With having the only public beaches along the 65 miles of shoreline, this is a large draw. Everyone wants to enjoy the grass and sand, and safely swim in the water,” Barger says.

One of the lesser known attractions at the park is the Thayerville Firetower located on top of Meadow Mountain. Berger says the park offers open hours and tours there through

Wisp Resort offers 34 slopes and trails, terrain parks, a snow tubing park, and a slope-side hotel.

out the year.

“Climbing this historic Firetower, built in 1921, offers you an amazing and scenic view of the lake,” Burger says.

The park also offers specialized trail systems designed for mountain bike use. Duck says that Garrett County has a total of 40 trails for hikers and bikers to enjoy.

Garrett County also features Muddy Creek Falls, Maryland’s highest free-falling waterfall, at 53 feet. This natural wonder is located at Swallow Falls State Park, which occupies 90,000 acres of public land, more than any other county in Maryland. Duck also recommends Backbone Mountain, with its elevation of 3,360 feet, makes it the highest point in the state.

“Muddy Creek Falls gets a lot of attention, but Tolliver Falls, also located at Swallow Falls State Park, is a beautiful, albeit, smaller waterfall that you don’t want to miss at this popular park,” Duck says. “And just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t stop by the waterfalls. They are gorgeous in the winter time and have even been known to freeze over.”

Yet another attraction in the Deep Creek area is Wisp Resort in McHenry, Maryland.

“Our resort offers a one-stop shop,” says Lori Zaloga, Director of Marketing for PGRI East Coast Properties which owns Wisp. “We have lodging, dining, and activities. You can park and not have to leave. But that being said there are also many things to do in the area like the state parks, other restaurants and small towns to explore.”

Wisp is best known for its winter activities.

“With 34 slopes and trails, terrain parks, a snow tubing park, and a slope-side hotel, Wisp Resort offers visitors a complete winter experience,” Duck says.

According to Zaloga, the winter sports experience this coming year will be even better, especially for those who are new to skiing and snowboarding thanks to an enlarged beginner area.

“It is huge,” Zaloga says. “There is a slope called Sunset Boulevard, and it is totally now a boulevard. We added three progressive conveyor carpets and more snow making. It will make our guests feel more comfortable.”

Zaloga notes that Sunset Boulevard is designed to give more room to beginners as well as those returning to the sport more room.

“We want to be the spot for beginners,” Zaloga says. “So this is a huge feat for us.”

But Zaloga points out that Wisp isn’t just for those who enjoy winter activities, adding that it is a welcoming four season resort with something for everyone.

“There is something to do here in all of the seasons – spring, summer, fall and winter,” Zaloga says. “That is the appeal of Deep Creek, it is never off season here. It is truly a four-season resort that offers something for everyone.”

One of those four-season activities is the Mountain Coaster, which Zaloga describes as a hybrid between a rollercoaster

At 53 feet, Muddy Creek Falls stands out as Maryland’s highest free-falling waterfall.

The Deep Creek Lake area spans 3,600 acres in Garret County and offers vacation activities for all seasons.

on rails and the Alpine Slide that one might find at other ski resorts. The one-person coaster cart starts out with an approximately 3 minute uphill climb on an automated pulley. Then the rider experiences a gravitational ride down from the top to the bottom that lasts between 5 and 7 minutes, depending on the rider’s comfortability. Zaloga says that while there are some weather-related closures, the Mountain Coaster is open year-round.

Another major attraction at Wisp is the Adventure Sports Center International, the world’s only mountaintop recirculating whitewater course. Located on top of Wisp Mountain, the third-mile long gravitational course has features that can be made bigger or smaller based upon the experience of those white water rafting or kayaking.

“It is a man-made recirculating river that we can regulate the water flow

The more-modest Tolliver Falls, located at Swallow Falls State Park, makes a scenic hiking destination even in the colder months.

and rapids. It is very unique to the area,” Zaloga says.

The course, that is open from Memorial Day to early October, Zaloga says, is great for beginners and families.

“We have people along the course that regulate the river, which makes it more secure than natural rapids,”

Zaoga says.

To find out more about special events and activities at the state park, Barger recommends following the Discovery Center & Deep Creek Lake State Park Volunteers Facebook page. To learn more about attractions in Garrett County, go to www.visitdeepcreek.com.

Small Steps for Big Results 5

Written by SANDIE LYNCH

Stop Dieting! Dieting is the biggest barrier to lasting weight loss results. Diets promise and deliver quick results, unfortunately, many times at the cost of health. Not only is physical and mental health compromised while dieting but usually the weight returns with more pounds to boot! One problem with quick weight loss diets is the loss on the scale is more than fat, it includes water, and muscle as well. Muscle loss is detrimental to a healthy metabolism, slowing it and making it easier to regain the lost weight. Muscle loss also lowers motivation and depresses mood, literally taking away the “get up and go.”

When the body is deficient

in calories, it creates energy by breaking down muscle tissue into carbohydrates to fuel the body and brain. Carbohydrates are the body’s preferred energy and will convert protein and muscle when not getting enough from the diet. As the body breaks down muscle, motivation, and the desire to move decline to help the body to conserve energy. Therefore, as motivation and energy decline, in just a few short weeks or months; the diet is rejected and old habits creep back in. The bottom

line, diets are stressful, and the brain and body will avoid stressful things.

Instead, make losing weight and getting healthy less stressful. Below is a step-by-step plan to start a sustainable health plan that will lead to lasting weight loss results with plenty of energy and motivation to sustain it. Once a step becomes a habit build on it with the next step.

1Eat more fruits and vegetables: Research conducted by Dr. D. Wang which appeared in the Journal Circulation on March 1, 2021, showed that mortality declined as fruit and vegetable consumption increased. Consuming at least 2 servings of fruit and 3 servings of vegetables a day lowered the risk of mortality by 13%. Other great benefits of eating more fruits and

vegetables are they are low in calories, high in fiber help one feel fuller quicker with fewer calories, are packed with cold and flu-fighting antioxidants, and lower inflammation in the body. Add fresh or frozen fruit to cereal, smoothies or plain yogurt. Vegetables are great low-calorie snacks.

2Reduce meat portions. Meat is high in calories and fat and is shown to contribute to obesity. Individuals who eat more meat have a higher total calorie intake of approximately 700 calories a day. The Shahedieh study published in 2022 found intake of processed meat was a significant predictor of central obesity and a high intake of poultry was associated with general obesity. Therefore, reducing meat portions makes the biggest

impact on weight loss and obtaining a healthy BMI. To make this easier, use smaller plates, cups, and bowls, have meatless meals, and decrease consumption over time. Cultures that live the longest, eat very little meat.

3Reduce or eliminate sugary snacks and beverages. A systematic review and meta-analysis by Lisa Te Morenga et al. concluded that intake of sugar-sweetened foods and beverages was associated with weight gain, but the same number of calories in whole-food carbohydrates was not associated with weight gain. Also, reduction of sugar was associated with weight loss. The odds of being overweight or obese increased with sugar intake. Limit added sugar to 25

grams a day.

4Eat whole grains instead of refined, enriched starches: Minimally processed whole grains such as brown rice, oat groats, wheat berries, and whole barley, are rich in carbohydrates to fuel the body, rich in fiber to regulate digestion and motility, as well as fuel healthy bacteria in the gut. Jens Walter’s study titled Holobiont Nutrition found individuals who eat more whole grains increase the microbial diversity with strains that lower inflammation in the body. Higher intake of whole grains is associated with lower mortality from cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers, especially colon cancer. If gluten-sensitive use grains

such as oatmeal, quinoa, millet and buckwheat. Eating 3 ½ cups a day is optimal for gut health.

5Engage in activity for 30 to 60 minutes 5-6 days a week including both cardio and strength training. Adding exercise burns fat and calories without restricting the body of needed nutrients. Exercise stabilizes metabolism and most likely will increase it when reshaping the body for less fat and more muscle. Exercise also improves insulin sensitivity, mood, and immunity, and lowers disease risks. To get started, break it into 10 to 15-minute segments throughout the day if necessary.

Remember, small steps create big results; Rome

was not built in a day. Stay focused on one day at a time and the behavior to accomplish for success. Build on each behavior for a lifestyle for more health, less fat, and the energy to fuel your best life.

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.

Avoiding Caregiver Stress and Burnout

Written by EMILY COLLINGHAM

Being a primary caregiver for a family member in need is one of the most honorable, yet challenging and stressful roles a person can undertake. Whether caring for an elderly loved one, or someone of any age with a disability, or a chronic medical or mental health condition, being a caregiver is often a physically and emotionally draining responsibility. The good news is that there are resources and coping strategies that can help.

Recognizing Caregiver Burnout

Balancing the needs of the loved one and that of the caregiver can present many challenges. Often, caregivers find themselves neglecting their own needs, family life, self-care routines, etc., simply because there doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day. If caregiver burnout is not addressed, it can take a toll on your health, relationships and emotional well-being. Signs and symptoms of burnout include:

• Physical, emotional, mental exhaustion

• Excessive worry and anxiety

• Depression/Sadness/Grief

• Guilt

• Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness

• Changes in appetite and/ or sleep patterns

• Loss of interest in normal activities

• Isolating

• Irritability

• Self-harming and/or suicidal ideation

• Chronic illness or other physical ailments

• Substance or alcohol abuse

How to Manage Stress and Avoid Caregiver Burnout

There are many coping skills and strategies that can help caregivers min-

imize stress and regain a sense of balance. Here are some recommendations:

Ask for help. There is no shame in asking others for help. Everyone has their limits. Inform other family members or friends that you need some assistance and/or hire outside help to give you some respite. Make it a team effort so no one caregiver is working in isolation.

Seek guidance and support. Online and community peer support groups for caregivers can be helpful. Being a part of a group with similar experiences provides emotional support and helps to alleviate the feeling of being alone. Support groups share information, insights, caregiving strategies, and resources that can help to combat caregiver stress and burnout.

Improve self-care. Prioritizing selfcare is the key to establishing wellness and regaining balance. Some self-care strategies include:

• Get adequate sleep

• Eat a healthy diet

• Stay hydrated

• Exercise regularly

• Engage in meaningful and relaxing activities

• Socialize with loved ones

• Address medical concerns as soon as possible

• Journal or engage in mental health therapy to process thoughts/feelings

• Set healthy boundaries to unnecessary stressors

• Practice self-compassion and love

• Be realistic about your capabilities/limitations to avoid overextending yourself

• Take breaks/vacations

• Humor can balance out negativitywatch or listen to comedy, uplifting music and any other stress reducing activities that work for you.

Educate yourself.Learn as much as you can from trusted sources about your loved one’s condition so that you are set-

ting realistic expectations for yourself as a caregiver and for them. If they need a higher level of care than what you can reasonably provide, you may need to explore other care options. Understand that if you are in a healthy emotional, physical and mental state because you are taking care of yourself, you will inevitably be a better caregiver to your loved one. Your loved one does not want you to sacrifice your own health and well-being to care for them. Love them more by loving yourself first.

When to Seek Professional Help for Caregiver Burnout

Stress and burn out symptoms are quite common among caregivers and can usually be managed by the strategies mentioned in this article. However, if the symptoms are ignored, or endured for too long, they can develop into more serious medical or mental health conditions. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible:

Moderate to severe chronic depression symptoms (fatigue, loss of interest in normal activities, sleep disturbances, appetite changes, difficulty concentrating, suicidal ideation, sadness, hopelessness, etc.)

Moderate to severe chronic anxiety symptoms(racing thoughts, irritability, restlessness, excessive worry, trembling, feelings of impending doom, intrusive thoughts, fear, etc.).

Physical symptoms.Any physical symptoms that may indicate an underlying medical condition (i.e. chronic fatigue, headaches, muscle aches, frequent illnesses from vulnerable immune system, pain, gastrointestinal issues, etc.) as chronic stress can cause heart problems, stroke, diabetes, and other serious health problems.

Substance abuse. If you find yourself relying on drugs or alcohol to help you

cope with stress and burnout, it’s time to get some professional help from a mental health or substance abuse treatment provider.

Suicidal or homicidal thoughts, feelings, urges or intentions.If you are in imminent danger of hurting yourself or others, please call 911 or go to your local emergency room.

Difficulty with day-to-day functioning. If you find yourself having difficulty with day-to-day functioning (unable to uphold necessary responsibilities/routines in any area of your life), you should seek medical or mental health attention as soon as possible.

Maintaining a healthy sense of balance is the key to providing care to others without compromising your own personal well-being. A clear understanding of the tasks and responsibilities involved in providing care, and setting realistic expectation for yourself and your loved one, will go a long way to help reduce stress and prevent burnout. Involve others so you have an opportunity to take a break and practice self-care. Most importantly, understand that you can’t do it all. Know your limitations and recognize when your physical/mental health is compromised and reach out for help.

Emily Collingham, LCPC, NCC, is a licensed clinical professional counselor and national certified counselor providing therapy for all ages in Brook Lane’s Outpatient program in Frederick, MD. She has more than 17 years of experience in working with children, adolescents and adults, 8 years of which were spent in the field of supported employment and case management for individuals with disabilities. Emily is a graduate of the University of Maryland University College and she holds a Master’s Degree in Community Counseling from Argosy University, Washington, D.C.

As Baby Boomers age, demand for more senior assistance will be needed

Written by TIM FISHER

In the next seven years, all 73 million Baby Boomers will be 65 or older (2020 census). That equals 35% of the entire adult population (18 and over) of the United States. Just think, over one-third of all adults will not only qualify for Social Security but they will be eligible for, and in many cases in need of, the services of their Area Agency on Aging (AAA). In Washington County, Maryland, that agency is the Washington County Commission on Aging. If you live outside of Washington County, the good news is that through the Older Americans Act, each State is required to provide local AAAs.

We know that the aging of our nation’s population will challenge federal entitlement programs, such as Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, but there is less awareness that this shift will also significantly increase demand for home and community-based services like those offered by local Area Agencies on Aging. All AAAs strive to assess community needs, then develop and find funding for programs that respond to

The Washington County Commission on Aging has more than 50 social service programs specifically designed to meet the needs of seniors in Washington County.

those needs. AAAs educate and provide direct assistance to seniors about available community resources for services and supports.

Just a few of these programs include home delivered meals, caregiver support, assisted living subsidy, senior care support services and much more. For example, the Washington County Commission on Aging has more than 50 social service programs specifically designed to meet the needs of seniors in Washington County.

As the Baby Boomer population dramatically rises, funding for the Nation’s AAAs is lagging. This means that waitlists for services are also dramatically increasing. In Washington County, there are currently over 300 senior residents waiting for services that, in some cases, may take anywhere from six months to years to provide due to staffing and funding needs. Funding for AAAs may come from a

variety of sources but none is more needed than with the partnership of their local communities in the form of individuals and local businesses through donated time, talent and financial support directly to agencies, endowments and legacy giving programs.

For more information about services offered in Washington County, to make a donation, or to learn how to locate your Area Agency on Aging, please contact the Washington County Commission on Aging at 301790-0275 or visit our website at www. wccoaging.org

The Washington County Commission on Aging is proud to offer help and hope to our seniors.

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

Written by PAULETTE LEE

ven without a pandemic, winter weather can keep us indoors looking to stay engaged, and it appears that we seniors are game for gaming. Now, I don’t consider myself a “gamer” -- until I remind myself how addicted I am to playing Spider Solitaire on my phone or tablet, and then there’s my electronic and online chess games… and of course Wordle… and…

In fact, according to a recent survey from AARP, video games are booming among people age 50 and older, with more than 50 million older Americans playing video games – defined as “any interactive digital entertainment played via a computer, a game console, a phone or a tablet.” The online (of course) survey of more than 3500 people also found that video games are more popular among older women than older men. (I don’t want to seem sexist by postulating it’s because our brains are more active, but…!)

The AARP report concludes: “Video games have gone mainstream as [older] gamers find pleasure

and functional utility in gaming. Over one-third constantly try new games. With increased access and use, older adults are using gaming to connect socially, stay mentally sharp, reduce stress and just to have fun.” Some seniors have even organized their own video game tournaments in order to connect with others in the community.

Of course, as with any trend, there are positives and negatives. Research out of the University of Montreal found that people who regularly engaged in playing video games had decreased cognitive impairment, and that gaming might even help to prevent the development of Alzheimer’s, as the gray matter in the brain’s hippocampus increases. That gray matter is often used as a marker for neurological disorders that can occur over time. One of the key findings of that study is that the most benefits are reaped when players try new games, instead of staying with the same old, same old.

Other game-playing benefits for seniors include maintaining such skills as decision-making and hand-eye coordination, and even sometimes hearing

is improved. Additionally, video games are good for seniors because they can be selected or even customized for people with physical impairments, though some claim they can be harmful to eyesight. However, a research paper from McMaster University – another Canadian institution – found that seniors who had eye damage and played first-person shooter games could still make out small print and recognize faces with ease, and because players need to move their eyes quickly, some eyesight functions actually improved.

Video game addiction, though, can be a very real problem for some, especially if the condition produces aggression, anxiety, or

inhibits real-life socializing or going outdoors.

As we get along in years, we need to exercise our brain just as much as our body. There are thousands of brain-boosting video games available, so if a cold winter day is keeping you indoors, get your game on!

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.

Home Meal Kits: How to balance convenience & nutrition

Written by LISA McCOY

The popularity of the home-meal kit delivery services expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people opt for meal-service kits instead of take-out or preparing a meal that requires planning, shopping, preparation and cooking. Meal kit services are marketed as a convenient and healthy alternative to dining out or preparing meals at home. It is most popular among busy parents, millennials, individuals working multiples jobs, working couples, and people with special dietary needs or preferences.

Many love this $17 bil-

lion industry because it is easier to cook a homemade meal at home after a long workday and it is fun to try new recipes. Meal kit services are most popular among millennials and Gen-Xers and less popular among Baby Boomers and older generations. Statistics show that men are more likely to order meal kits than women are.

The most popular home meal kits are the cook and eat type. These meal kits offer pre-measured ingredients, preprepped ingredients in many kits, and easy to follow recipes with pictures to create the meal. Another type of service is the heat and eat which provides foods that are already prepared and cooked and only require re-heating.

The delivery services offers options for number of servings and meals/week as well as frequency of delivery when ordering online. Many of these meal kits are subscriptions services which automatically send you meals on a weekly basis so be sure to check each week for meal choices and make your selection. Some services will allow you to skip weeks but you need to cancel within a specific timeframe or you will receive meals that you did not select. These meal kits range in skill level as much as they range in dietary preferences, price and serving sizes so it is easy to find one that fits your family or individual needs.

Advantages and Drawbacks

One of the advantages of using these delivery services is to expand the diversity of your meals and try new and interesting foods. Since they provide a specific number of portions, you are less likely to have leftovers or waste food. These kits provide ingredients that may be hard to find in your local stores. They also help to reduce the number of trips to the grocery store. The convenience is the most important for people with busy lives and is a better alternative than driving through a fastfood restaurant on your way home from work. Many services provide recipes for special dietary needs, which makes it easier to maintain and follow a special diet.

There are also drawbacks to these meal kits delivery services. The biggest drawback is the high cost. Although there are a variety of meal kit providers, the average

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

price per serving ranges from $4.99 to $8.99. A recent Forbes article states that a restaurant meal costs $20.37, and a homemade meal costs $4.31. Almost 80% of customers who tried and rejected home meal kits stated the reason was the expense. Some segments of the populations, especially the foodies who enjoy the gourmet cooking, like the experience and use it as a social time to cook with friends.

Another drawback is the nutritional value of the kits, including calorie and sodium content. People became more health conscious during the COVID-19 pandemic and want healthy, balanced meals. Americans believe that meal kits are healthier than food that is prepared in restaurants. While this may be true, it may have more sodium, calories and fat than what is recommended for most Americans. The Dietary Guidelines of Americans (DGA) recommends 2,300mg sodium/ day for adults. As a frame of reference, one teaspoon of salt is nearly 2,300mg of sodium. According to the American Heart Association, Americans’ current average daily intake of sodium is 3,400mg/day. People with certain health conditions like high blood pressure, congestive heart failure or kidney disease, should restrict their sodium lower than the dietary guidelines recommendation. Obesity is a public health epidemic in the United States with almost 42% of Americans considered obese. The recommended caloric intake for most Americans is 1,600 to 2,000 calories for women and 2,000 to 3,200 calories for men.

A random selection of three meal kits entrees included Cowboy Poblano Cheddar Burger, Steak Fajita Quesadilla and Greek Shrimp Mini Flatbread. The average sodium content for these three meals is 1,710mg, with the sodium content of the Cowboy Poblano Cheddar Burger at 1640mg, Steak Fajita Quesadilla at 1670mg, and the Greek Shrimp Mini Flatbread at 1,820mg. These are much higher than the recommended 600 mg sodium per meal. The average calorie level for these meals is 777 calories with the

highest one coming in at 940 calories.

How to make these meal kits healthier

Some meal kits offer options that are healthy or calorie conscious but it is best to do your own research and review the nutritional information for sodium and calorie content and other nutrients to be sure that it meets your personal guidelines. Aim to select meals that provide no more than 600mg per serving and within your recommended calorie intake per serving.

If this is not an option, modifying or replacing ingredients may be the best method to reduce the sodium content. Proteins that are cured, processed, or seasoned could be higher in sodium than other products. Sauces and condiments such as soy sauce, ketchup, and barbecue sauce are some condiments to reexamine before preparing your dish as they contain added sodium. To reduce the sodium content, use only half of the recommended amount of that ingredient to decrease the sodium in your serving or eliminate the ingredient altogether and use something else to season it.

Use a low-sodium seasoning blend from the store or experiment with herbs and spices. Try using robust flavors in your dishes that may make you forget the salt. A popular salt-free seasoning blend from McCormick features garlic, oregano, rosemary, basil, peppers, onion, paprika and celery that can be used on chicken, shrimp, pork, beef, pasta and vegetable choices. Check out their website at www. mccormick.com/articles/mccormick/ low-sodium-seasoning-guide-to-usingless-salt for other recommendations.

Comparing the three most popular meal kits

The top three online meal-kit delivery services are HelloFresh, Blue Apron and Home Chef. HelloFresh accounts for 70% of the market. HelloFresh offers a variety of meal plans and choices from two meals to six meals per week for either two or four people. The price for three-meal

per week for two people is $10.99 per serving and $8.99 for four people for three meals per week. They offer six different meal plan options including family-friendly, quick and easy, and meat and veggies. Blue Apron was one of the first meal kit companies. They offer meal options and you can select preferences such as plant-based, family-friendly and healthy to help them recommend choices for you. You can choose two, three or four meals per week for two or four people. The prices for three meals per week for two people is $9.99 and $8.49 for four people. Home Chef offers the choice of heat and eat meals as well as cook and eat meals. Their meal options include family favorites, vegetarian, carb conscious and calorie conscious. The pricing for meals begins at $7.99 per meal plus shipping cost.

Make your own meal kits

Create your own meal kit at home with advanced meal planning and preparation. These meals can be prepared days in advance and preserved by freezing for later in the week. Some strategies to embark on the meal kit adventure include scheduling one or two days a week when you shop and prepare the meals. Determine your cooking method that will work for your lifestyle, and this may consist of batch cooking, individually portioned meals, ready-to-cook recipes, or made-ahead meals.

If you need to generate creativity within your weekly meal plans, consider signing up for a home-meal kit delivery service and use it as a reference for ideas. You can also go the different meal kit websites and review their recipes online. Modify these recipes to fit your preference and lifestyle to reduce cost, save time and improve your overall health. If you enjoy the gourmet choices from these services and the convenience, indulge yourself maybe once a month to order two to three meals and enjoy.

Jesse Lewis, dietetic intern with Keith & Associates Distance Dietetic Internship (KADDI) contributed to this article.

New Year, New Horizons: The Future of the Frontier

Written by MATTHEW WEDD

At the Conococheague Institute. We study, preserve and interpret the 18th-century lifestyle of Frontier America.

By looking back to the past, we can learn so much, which helps us connect better to ourselves as a community today and prepare for the future.

Last year we received unprecedented support allowing new programs like “Can You Live 18th Century” and a gift from the Kermit and Clarisse Hicks Foundation that funded a complete Interpretive Panel renovation.

With that in mind, what does 2023 have in store for CI? How can your family play a role in our growing Frontier Family? Read on to find out.

The cabin at Conococheague Institute with grape vines bursting.

Traditional ale making.

What is the Conococheague Institute?

If you couldn’t tell from our past articles and photos, we love the 18th Century and our natural environment. But what and who are we?

The Conococheague Institute is a Non-profit organization located at Rock Hill Farm, a well-preserved 18th-century homestead. Surrounded by open farmlands and with mountains on the horizon, it would be easy to think you have been transported to Colonial America. However, you are just a 15-minute drive from Mercersburg and Greencastle, Pa., and Hagerstown, Md.

Our beautiful scenic site has 30 acres of natural resources with woodlands, wetlands and meadows teeming with flora and fauna. Numerous gardens with native plants attract pollinators, birds and photographers alike. Our grounds and walking trails are open daily from dawn to dusk, and dog walkers are extremely welcome.

Nestled in that scenery are several historic houses, log cabins and structures dating from the mid-18th century. The land itself was first settled in 1734 by the Davis family, and our programs today focus on the settlement period of the Frontier.

As a homestead, our focus isn’t on the BIG history. No battles were fought here, George Washington never slept here...and Ben Franklin never drank here!

Instead, people lived here. The daily lives of all our ancestors are often swept away in the pages of history, so we bring that to life with our weekly Saturday programs and educational bookings. Focusing on the everyday stories, but also of those underrepresented in the history books.

How hard is it to draw water from a well? Why were taverns and alcohol so important for health and economy? What native medicinal herbs would a frontier mother grow to nurse her

Frontier games in the tavern.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MATTHEW WEDD

Sam Cathey baking bread rolls.

young? What meals would an enslaved person eat compared to the farmers? And what did people do to have fun?

Interested? Explore our site any day, but definitely check out the Historic Programs every Saturday, or visit one of our Events.

Events: Conservation, Frolics, Bonfires and more

So what events can we look forward to in 2023? We theme our events around our story of Colonial life, but nature plays a part too.

As a partner of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, we regularly organize volunteer tree plantings to help stream health. Contact us at info@cimlg.org to get on our volunteer list. Birding walks, medicinal herb hikes and more occur on a regular basis.

This year we’ll be hosting a special Conservation Celebration on April 15, filled with naturalists, crafts, some tree plantings and more. Perfect to prepare you for Earth Day on April 22.

Spring and fall are our heavy booking periods for educational programs and in 2023 we’ll be launching some new programs, including an exciting Colonial program for PreK. Think Frontier Punch and Judy…

September 23 is set for the second Annual Fall Frolic Fundraiser to support our educational programs. In 2022, we raised $10,000 and we aim to beat that this year with more corporate sponsors and activities.

Our “Guy Fawkes Night” or “Bonfire Night” will be Saturday, Nov. 6 this year. A day of thanksgiving in the British and Colonial calendar for an averted destruction of the Government (in 1605), for centuries it was celebrated with large bonfires, food, drink, fireworks, song and dance. It still has all those elements today at the Conococheague Institute, so mark your calendar now for that cool November evening.

And for those who just enjoyed Christmas and can’t wait for the Holiday season to come around the Colonial Christmas event will be hosted again on Saturday, Dec. 16.

Summer camps, cooking and sewing workshops, lectures, astronomy and guest appearances occur all throughout the year. So how can you stay up to date on the latest CI news? Become a member!

Join today by visiting cimlg.org/join-the-conococheague-institute or contact info@cimlg.org for more details.

Business sponsors and donors allow our programs to be bigger and better. If you would like to sponsor a fundraiser or educational program please contact us. We thank you for your support.

Finally, consider making a legacy gift to CI in your Estate and Will. We are a 501(C)(3) nonprofit registered in Pennsylvania and Maryland, and all donations are tax deductible. Our annual operating budget is $120,000 and an endowment fund would allow our Historic and Natural environment to flourish with new students every day for generations to come.

Past, Present and Future combine at the Conococheague Institute. We look forward to you being a part of it.

Bonfire Night returns in November.

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

September 23 is set for the second annual Fall Frolic Fundraiser will be back again in September. PHOTO BY ROB BROGAARD

Sugar maple planted by a young naturalist.

MARYLAND

BOONSBORO

Boonsboro Antiques

Boonsboro Family Dentistry

Dan’s Restaurant & Tap House

Fahrney Keedy

Gifts Inn Boonsboro

Josie’s on Main

Olde Homestead

University of Maryland Extension

CLEAR SPRING

Clear Spring Pharmacy

Ernst Market

Holiday Inn Express

Snipz Hair Salon

Wilson General Store

HAGERSTOWN

28 South Restaurant & Bar

A Place For All Seasons

AC&T Garland

AC&T Hopewell

Accessible Home Health Care

Antique Crossroads

Atlantic Tractor

Auto Spa

Beaver Creek Car Wash

Berkshire Hathaway Big Dipper

Black Box Studio

Bodyworks Massage

Bogards Hair Salon

Briar Patch Pet Salon

Bulldog Federal Credit Union Bulls & Bears

Burkholder’s Flooring

Byers Shop and Go

Cafe Del Sol

Cafe Italia

Capital Women’s Care

R. Bruce Carson Jewelers

Center for Joint Surgery

Central ENT Consultants City of Hagerstown

Classy Nails

CNB - Longmeadow

Coldwell Banker

College Plaza Laundry

Comfort Inn & Suites

Country Inn & Suites

Courtyard by Marriott

Cumberland Valley Retina

CVS

Davita - Washington County Peritoneal Dialysis

Discovery Station

District Provision & Supply Co.

Doey’s House

Dorsey Brothers

Dr. Garazo, Plastic Surgery

Dr. Geis

Dual Lanes

Earl’s Market

Edward Jones (Opal Court)

Edward Jones (W. Franklin St.)

Edward Jones (Pennsylvania Ave.)

Fast Lane Car Sales

Finders Keepers Fine Consignments

Francis Murphy Senior Apts.

Galaxy Liquors

Gaye McGovern, State Farm

Glocker Realty

Grace United Methodist Church

Grass Roots Salon

Grease Monkey

The Greens at Hamilton Run

Hagerstown Community College - ARCC

Hagerstown Community College - Careers

Hagerstown Community College - Library

Hagerstown Floors

Hagerstown Home Store

Hagerstown Imaging

Hagerstown Premium Outlets

Hagerstown Regional Airport

Hair Port 3

Hamilton Nissan

Hartle’s Subs (S. Potomac St.)

Hartle’s Subs (Marshall St.)

Holiday Inn Express

Homewood Suites

Howard’s Arts & Frames

J’s Diner - Weis Plaza

Kabob Grill

Keller-Williams Realty (Valley Mall)

Lakeside Village Community Office

The Laundry Room

The Locked Door

Locust Point Market

Long & Foster

Los Amigos Restaurant

Ludwick Eye Center

The Lyles Center

Mackintosh Realtors

Martin’s

Meadows Frozen Custard

Mercedes-Benz

Meritus Medical Center

Meritus Thrift Shop

Minnich Funeral Home

Motel 6

Nick’s Airport Inn

Olde Town Touch

Otterbein United Methodist Church

Parkway Neuroscience & Spine Institute

Pennsylvania Dutch Market Pizza & Pretzel Creations

Potomac Case Management

Potomac Towers Pulmonary Consultants

Pura Vida Coffee Ramada Plaza

RE/MAX Results

RE/MAX - United Bank Building

The Rhubarb House

Robinwood Liberty

Robinwood Medical Center Color Entrances Racks

Rocky’s Pizza Roy Rogers

Royal Laundromat Ruff Fitness

Sagittarius Salon & Spa

Sander’s Cookie Jar Bakery

Save A Lot

Senior Activities Center

Seven Ten Bowling Shank’s Lawn Equipment

Sleep Inn & Suites

Smile Design Centre

South End Laundry

South End Shopping Center

Southside Bowl

Spherion - South Pointe Spichers Appliances & Security Spickler’s Market

SpringHill Suites

Stonecroft Apartments

Strata Realty

Subway

Sylvania Centre Lobby

T&N Liquors

Tony’s Pizza

Toothman Orthodontics United Bank (Dual Hwy)

University System of Maryland at Hagerstown

Valley Dental Associates Valley Mall - Mall Office

Visit Hagerstown & Washington Co. (CVB)

Washington County Arts Council

Washington County Public Schools main office

Washington County Free Library

Washington County Museum of Fine Arts

Washington County Public Relations and Community Affairs

Western Maryland Hospital

Wonder Book & Video

World Treasures Thrift Shop YMCA

HANCOCK

Blue Goose

Hancock Antique Mall

MIDDLETOWN Hightman lnsurance

SMITHSBURG

Debbie’s Soft Serve Dollar General Phil & Jerry’s Meats and More Rite Aid

Smithsburg Barber Shop

Smithsburg Market

Sunnycrest Farm Store Village Spirits

WILLIAMSPORT

Deliteful Dairy Edward Jones

Homewood Retirement Village Williamsport Retirement Village

Williamsport Town Hall

PENNSYLVANIA

CHAMBERSBURG

The Butcher Shoppe

Chambersburg Urgent Care

Coldwell Banker

Forrester Lincoln Mercury

M&S Harley-Davidson

Results Therapy

Sleep Breathing Disorders Spring View Appliance & Mattresses

Summit Health Center

Summit Health Corporate Office

Alternative Choices

Antrim Way Honda

BBS Jewelers

Branded Meats

Coldwell Banker

Consign and Collect

ELM Department Store

ELM Shoes

Glenwood Foods

Goodwill

Greencastle -Antrim Chamber Greencastle Notary

Home Style Family Restaurant

Hortsdale Farm Supply

John Allison House

Joyful Arts Studio

Mikie’s Ice Cream

The Shop

Smokin’ Joe’s

Stitch-N-Time

Sunnyway Diner

Sunnyway Foods

WAYNESBORO

Break Away Sports Lounge

Coldwell Banker

Four Seasons Florist Keystone Family Restaurant

Robinwood Orthopaedic Savage Family Pharmacy

Sleep Breathing Disorders Tranquila Tea Waynesboro Medical Office Building Waynesboro Hospital Wildflower Marketplace

WEST VIRGINIA

BERKELEY SPRINGS

Andree’s Essence of Health/ Firehouse Optical

BB&T

Berkeley Springs Healing Center

Berkeley Springs Senior Center

Clark’s Home Furnishings

Coolfont Resort

Country Inn County Commision Ice House Gallery

Morgan County Courthouse

Morgan County Library

Rocks-N-Glass

State Farm Travel Berkeley Springs

MARTINSBURG

Larkin Tea Co. Snyder Bailey and Associates

Leadership Washington County celebrates its scholarship recipients

Written by TARA BOCKSTANZ

As the 2022-23 program year begins, Leadership Washington County (LWC) congratulates this year’s scholarship recipients. Each year LWC awards scholarships to applicants who work for small-businesses, nonprofits or who are self-funded. LWC is proud to be able to offer scholarships to deserving individuals. LWC awarded 12 total scholarships this year. Recipients of a LWC scholarship were: April Crohare, Advocate for Children & Individuals with Disabilities; Robyn Sumner, Washington County Historical Society; Bernadette Wagner, Prime Time for Women; and Jill Zamostny, REACH of Washington County.

In addition, several external scholarships were awarded to class members on behalf of our sponsors. A First Energy Foundation Scholarship was awarded to Anastasia Broadus of Community Mediation Maryland. The Patriot Federal Credit Union Scholarship was awarded to Shelia Evers of WCPS Education Foundation. The Mary Hudgins (LWC Class of 2022 - #35) Scholarship was awarded to Kelli Tencer with United Way of Washington County. The Women’s Giving Circle Scholarship was awarded to Cherish McMillan, The F.O.C.U.S. Trainer. The Hamilton Family Foundation Scholarship was received by Kim Gembe with Lasting Change. The LWC Class 30 “Be Nice” scholarship was presented to Kellie Mele with Washington County Museum of Fine Arts. Dan Greenwald (LH Class of 1989 - #2) sponsored The Judy Greenwald (LH Class of 1994 - #7) Scholarship which was presented to Carrie Tressler with the Washington County Mental Health Authority. Lastly,

Class #36 participates in their first program day centered on Human Services.

Scholarship recipients, from left to right: April Crohare, Advocate for Children & Individuals with Disabilities; Robyn Sumner, Washington County Historical Society; Bernadette Wagner, Prime Time for Women Inc; Jill Zamostny, REACH of Washington County

the Visit Hagerstown Scholarship was awarded to Sarah Nadeau with the Washington County Free Library. A huge thank-you goes out to each of our sponsors for joining LWC in increasing access to the core program through scholarship support!

Early in October, LWC Class #36 participated in their first program day centered on Human Services. They explored the thesis How is Washington County meeting the challenges and opportunities around homelessness and housing, poverty and access to food, and meeting other basic needs such as clothing and help with utilities? During the program day the class heard from many a range of human service organizations including Washington County Community Foundation, United Way of Washington County, Washington County Community Action Council, Hagerstown Housing Authority and Washington County Housing Authority. As the day continued, the class broke into small groups and visited organizations in downtown Hagerstown. These organizations included The Watch Center for Hagerstown Police Department, TruHealing Hagerstown, It’s a Blessing to be a Blessing, and Potomac Case Management. Later that day, class members had the opportunity to visit Goodwill with CEO, Dave Shuster, REACH with Executive Director Jeanne Asbury and Children in Need with Executive Director Anne Martin. It was an insightful day learning about the resources, services, and agencies available within Washington County. The class experienced an Education/ Workforce Development program day on Nov 4. During this session, class members had an opportunity to see how Meritus, the largest employer in Washington County, is developing and engaging their workforce for the benefit of the entire community. The class participated in sessions led by Dr. Maulik Joshi, president & CEO of Meritus Health, and his colleagues, focusing on building a culture of health in our community. Class #36 had a chance to familiarize themselves with the Go for

LWC Graduate Members participated in a tour of the Global Village, featuring villages in Guatemala, Thailand, Kenya and Mozambique

Bold initiative, a movement dedicated to creating a healthy community with a goal of losing one million pounds over 10 years. The LWC class was also able to explore Meritus’ mobile clinic and hear the latest news on the proposed Meritus School of Osteopathic Medicine. The class also had a unique opportunity to hear about Meritus-led community outreach programs from two of their own classmates, Lynnae Messner and Kristie Carbaugh.

The LWC class then traveled to Hagerstown Community College to hear from Washington County Public Schools (WCPS) about educational programs for children from Pre-K through 12th grade. Led by LWC graduates Dr. Gary Willow, associate Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction (LWC Class of 2022 - #35) and Kim Duncan, Community Schools Specialist Coordinator (LWC Class of 2021 - #34), presenters shared ways WCPS is offering opportunities for students in all grade levels. Class members were given an overview of Judy Centers, Community Schools and Career & Technical Education Pathways within our school system. In addition, they explored enrollment, attendance and family engagement for students in Washington County. Directors from the Boys & Girls Club, Girl’s Inc. and the Hagerstown YMCA were able to share information on opportunities available for extended learning partnerships and school year programming. Lastly, Class #36 heard from Hagerstown Community College’s Dean of Instruction regarding the AA

Pathways program offered to high school students. Overall, the day was a success as LWC class members discovered how our schools are preparing today’s students for the future.

On Oct. 18, LWC Graduate Members had a unique opportunity to connect and collaborate at Shepherd’s Spring in Sharpsburg, Md. LWC Graduate Members participated in a tour of the Global Village, featuring villages in Guatemala, Thailand, Kenya and Mozambique. Teams explored the topic of food scarcity and discussed how people in the poverty-stricken villages use their resources to survive. Each team prepared lunch native to a country represented in the Global Village with limited resources, in an outdoor kitchen or open fire. The team at Shepherd’s Spring provided us with a wealth of information on our visit.

LWC Graduate Members also had the opportunity to attend our Best Lunch Ever series on November 9 in the Schindel-Rohrer Ballroom for lunch catered by 28 South and sponsored by Hagerstown-Washington County Industrial Foundation (CHIEF). The lunch highlighted how the Multi-Use Sports and Events Complex will affect economic development in downtown Hagerstown. During lunch LWC Graduate Members heard from Greg Snook, CEO and president of CHIEF, Linda Ebersole, representative of Downtown Baseball, LLC (Graduate of LWC Class of 2010 - #23), and Atlantic League Team owners Blackie Bowen and Jim Holzapfel. The roundtable discussion format allowed for a lively and in-depth conversation.

All of our graduates and LWC Class members enjoyed themselves at our Annual Holiday Party on Dec. 15. The party provided a fabulous, festive atmosphere to meet the current class, reconnect with classmates and remind everyone that their class was the best class ever!

Tara Bockstanz is the Director of Graduate Engagement at Leadership Washington County.

Your Winter Watchlist on Kanopy

Written by SARAH NADEAU

There’s snow falling, the sun is setting, and your couch feels like the perfect place to be —conditions are just right for a cozy movie night in. With blankets and snacks at the ready, your biggest question now is, of course: What to watch?

Even if you didn’t get a chance to stop by your library to check out physical DVD or Blu-ray copies of your favorite flicks or the latest blockbuster releases, don’t despair. You don’t have to dig through the dusty stack of DVDs crammed in the entertainment center cabinet in search of a movie you haven’t seen 47 times already.

We can help! Kanopy, one of Washington County Free Library’s free digital library resources, is a streaming service like Netflix or Hulu. Using a WCFL library card, you can access more than 30,000 films instantly.

How do you access this fantastic

treasure trove of films? Download the free Kanopy app or visit westmd. kanopy.com on your smart TV, computer, or phone. Register to create an account using your email address and library card number.

Then, you’re ready to instantly borrow, watch, or download movies. Each account has 10 credits per month to watch from the wide range of options available.

Do you love A24’s horror flicks? Maybe you’re in the mood for a Criterion Collection classic. How about a fun romantic comedy for the season? It might be a nice opportunity to watch that documentary you’ve seen so much buzz about lately. There are even TV shows for still more mar-

athon viewing.

Outside of movie night, Kanopy is a great free service for the whole family with a variety of fun and educational media in Kanopy Kids. Picture book read-alongs, myths and fables, Sesame Street, and family movies are available with the press of a button!

If you’re interested in learning history, a new skill, or another language, Kanopy also hosts The Great Courses. If you aren’t finding the right YouTube tutorial for your project, check Kanopy for high-quality educational content.

Make sure to explore all that you can get for free with your library card using Washington County Free Library’s digital resources. We are here for your entertainment, education, and information needs!

Sarah Nadeau is the community partnerships librarian at the Washington County Free Library.

GETTY IMAGES

A Closer Look: Thomas Moran’s ‘Lower Manhattan from Communipaw, New Jersey’

Written by SARAH J. HALL

Have you ever spent an hour with a single work of art? Researchers say that most museum visitors devote only 15 to 30 seconds looking at a work of art before moving on to the next one. But slowing down and really looking is immensely rewarding.

One of the pleasures of having a free and excellent museum in your community – like the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts – is that it’s easy to visit. You can stay 15 minutes to visit a favorite painting, or you can spend a couple of hours immersed in a special exhibition.

As you might guess, I have several favorite paintings in the museum’s collection. One that you might find me in front of frequently is the sublimely beautiful Lower Manhattan from Communipaw, New Jersey by Thomas Moran.

Moran is an artist whose fame rests largely on monumental canvases he created depicting the awe-inspiring terrain of the American West – most significantly, Yellowstone (although he painted Yosemite, the Grand Canyon and many other Western natural wonders as well). In the museum’s Moran, however, we aren’t looking westward, we’re looking eastward, and we’re not gob-smacked by the grandeur of the natural world, we’re instead mesmerized by the visible manifestations of the impact of man.

We have a monthly online program for museum members called Art Social Hour. We spend an hour looking at and discussing one artwork, and while the discussion is structured and led by a

museum staff member, the purpose of the program is to get everyone talking and learning from each other. We try to break down the idea that we need experts to help us understand art. We use, what in the education field is called Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS), to build from our observations of the artwork some theories and suppositions about larger ideas and meanings.

So let’s look at the Moran together right now. (Maybe you should hop in your car and head to the museum!) Take a nice long look at the image of the painting accompanying this article. I always start Art Social Hour with a full-screen image of the work under discussion and we are quiet for the first couple of minutes. Letting our eyes move through the composition. Making some mental notes about what we notice and what we think is happening. I often suggest that if you have a pencil and paper – you make a rudimentary sketch – if you try to sketch a painting, even if you don’t consider yourself skilled, the active looking

required will help you better understand the composition, and you’ll notice things you might not otherwise.

What’s happening in this painting? My first answer would be — a lot! We’re looking across the water at a city. The skyline spreads out in the distance with clear evidence of industry. The sky is full of billowing smoke that drifts outward towards the edges of the painting. In the foreground, to the right a group of workmen load (or unload) a barge. It’s fascinating to look at the figures engaged in work. There’s a crane. There’s an abandoned propeller. The foreground is mostly dirt, with scattered evidence of the labor around — things that look like scrap metal, perhaps old rags -- the refuse of an active work site. To the left, there is a different set of laborers, and this group seems to be working with large quarried stones.

It bears saying, that this painting is a pleasure to look at—it’s beautiful. The billowing smoke creating romantic effects in the sky. The placid water mir-

“Lower Manhattan from Communipaw, New Jersey” by artist Thomas Moran is one of the many pieces on display at the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts.

These close-up images from the work are just a few examples of how Moran’s expert touch brings the tiniest of details to life.

roring the sky. The masts of ships and the verticals of smokestacks creating a rhythm on the horizon. The tiny figures inviting close looking and discoveries. The paint so masterfully applied that one writer described Moran’s way with paint thusly:

His touch for grass, his touch for pine trees, his touch for rocks, his touch for mud and gravel, his touch for cloud, is ready at a moment’s notice, whereupon the thing is in a moment defined. A turn of the wrist, a play of the astonished bristles [emphasis mine], and the thing is painted.

I love the idea of Moran’s ability being so consummate that the very bristles of his paintbrush are astonished!

But if we take apart the composition a bit we might notice a few things. Moran uses color — little flicks of red (a rag in the foreground, the shirt of a workman at left, a vest at right, a dab along the horizon) help our eye travel through the composition, as does the masterful way he makes the air and water shimmer with subtleties of silvery-gray and white. I asked the group in Art Social Hour if they thought this painting told a story, or if it was meant

to be “about” something. One participant commented, “It is very real to me and think at this time it evokes the desire to build a cleaner environment.”

So how is it that a painting about industry, about pollution, about man scarring the landscape (and indeed being oblivious, as are the figures in this painting who go about their own personal industry without paying any attention to the “big picture”) is so beautiful? And beautiful in the opposite way to the artist’s Western views, which show the unspoiled grandeur of nature.

One big art historical idea comes into play here — the notion of the sublime. There’s a certain kind of beauty and a bit of a thrill that comes from the experiences in life that strike awe in us — experiences that make us feel small and fragile, also can make us feel more alive. Moran uses that idea in his grand paintings of western landscapes, and here, in our painting, shows us that the works of man can evoke the same mixed feelings.

Moran boasted a powerful visual memory — for color, texture, form — but he knew that the experience of landscape was as much about subjective feeling as it was about accuracy.

His gift, then, is not just with his facile brush, but in his ability to absorb the feeling of a place and then conjure that for us. It’s a kind of magic.

So please, next time you are in the museum, spend more than 30 seconds with Thomas Moran’s gorgeous view; he’s showing us a view from what was Communipaw Cove (now filled in and part of Liberty State Park) across the water to sugar refineries belching smoke in Manhattan. But he’s also showing us the world we’ve made, in all its complicated ambiguity — every bit of it is beautiful, from the discarded rag and struggling flowers, to the sky hung with smoke, to the placid, glassy water.

Sarah J. Hall is executive director of the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts at 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown. 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 5 p.m. Visit wcmfa.org for more information about exhibitions, classes and more.

Washington County Arts Council welcomes back The Art of Cooking

Written by MARY ANNE BURKE

Now is the time to fill up your social calendar to avoid winter doldrums!

It is hard to believe that a 2009 Board conversation and a national television show would lead to The Washington County Arts Council’s major fundraiser, featuring cooking and presentation as art forms. And thus, The Art of Cooking 2010, the first of an annual tradition.

2009 was the year when the Voltaggio Brothers became “household names” on television, as Michael defeated Bryan in the finals of Season Six of “Top Chef: Las Vegas.” Michael

Voltaggio lived in California and Bryan Voltaggio resided in neighboring Frederick MD. Many in Hagerstown had dined at the Frederick Restaurant raving about not only the cuisine but the ambiance of the converted former Houck Mansion which had been a professional office building for many years. Could this be the basis for a newly formatted dinner?

The Board plan was to replicate some of the top chef concepts. With the willingness of Fountain Head Country Club to attempt something different, the enthusiasm of Executive Chef Todd Reynolds, and the technical expertise of Jim Miller owner of After Five Productions, Inc., the Arts

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE WASHINGTON COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL

Chef Todd Reynolds gets ready for his Art of Cooking event

Previous guest chefs pose for a photo at the Fountain Head Country Club: (left to right) Jim Pierné, Georgia Pierné, Mac Shuster, Dave Shuster, Chef Todd Reynolds, Vicki Willey, Stuart Kelman, Curt Miller, Sarah Hall and Herb Smith. Not shown: Jamie Gruzska

(Left) Jim Miller (left) handles the live-streaming video coverage of the event.

(Right) Chef Jamie Gruzska will be one of the guest chefs for the 2023 event.

Council ventured to produce its first The Art of Cooking.

Rather than a competition, five local couples and friends of the Arts Council were invited to share their favorite recipes, demonstrate their culinary skills while being live broadcast for the entertainment of the audience in the Club’s Ballroom. Each couple’s recipe was prepared in advance by Chef Todd and his staff and served to the assembled guests following each live broadcast. The evening also included a limited silent art auction of locally created artworks with proceeds shared with the gracious artists!

Every year since that first Art of Cooking, the event benefits the

Washington County Arts Council, Inc., and local artists. The Arts Council is grateful to each year’s Celebrity Chefs, the volunteers who artistically decorate the ballroom and to the many sponsors whose support and generosity contribute to the annual success of The Art of Cooking.

Fast forward to 2023. Now the 13th Annual, “The Art of Cooking,” returns to Fountain Head Country Club on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2023 (Snow date, Sunday, Jan. 29, 2023.) Guest Chefs are Jamie Gruzska and Sarah Hall; Stuart Kelman and Vicki Wiley; Curt Miller and Herb Smith; Jim and Georgia Pierné; and Dave Shuster and his son, Mac Shuster.

The five-course meal including vegetarian offerings with wine pairings will certainly please. And guests take home all the recipes! Once again, the Chefs promise a most enjoyable evening. Lots of laughs and delicious recipes await.

For information, contact Mary Anne Burke at 301-791-3132 or maryanneb@ washingtoncountyarts.com.

Reservations are available online at washingtoncountyarts.com/aoc

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

(Above) Event attendees are ready for the tasting.

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Who’s ready for a cleaning?