Holiday At Home Places 2020

at home

Complimentary |

Special Holiday Guide 2020

maryland • pennsylvania • west virginia

Cover presented by La Rouge Home & Design Learn more on page 9

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at home Places 6

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A Herald-Mail Media publication Volume 7, Issue 5 Lisa Tedrick Prejean Managing Editor Jessica Strope Design Editor/Layout Jennifer Blake, Mary Anne Burke, Jennifer Dolan, Sarah J. Hall, Linda Harkcom, Susan Hurd, Lauren LaRocca, Robin Morris, Sarah Nadeau, Meg H. Partington, Lisa Tedrick Prejean, Tricia Lynn Strader, Brandy (Baxter) Stayman, Brittany Wedd, Christina Williams Contributing Writers Colleen McGrath, Jared Muller, Will Niccolls, Leah Shifflett, Tricia Lynn Strader, Gail C. Zurenda Photographers JLM Photoshoots Cover Photographer Gannett Creative Solutions Advertising Design Kathy Gelwicks, Michelle Horton, Tricia Johnson, Kathi Smith Advertising Sales Brian Tedrick Circulation Director

shutters

draperies & more

© 2020 Herald-Mail Media AT HOME PLACES is distributed quarterly through selected distribution outlets. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BY COPYRIGHT. Prices, specials and descriptions are accurate as of the time of publishing. This book or parts thereof may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher. Advertising information has been provided by the advertiser. Herald-Mail Media does not make any representations as to the opinions or facts contained herein. All terms and conditions subject to change. The cover, design, format and layout of this publication are trademarks of Herald-Mail Media.

To advertise in the next issue of At Home Places, contact your Herald-Mail Media sales representative or call 301-791-7177.

For editorial content inquires, contact Lisa Tedrick Prejean, lprejean@localiq.com Follow @athomeplaces on Facebook: facebook.com/athomeplaces Twitter: twitter.com/athomeplaces

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F RO M T H E E D I TO R

“Grace is but glory begun, and glory is but grace perfected.”

— Jonathan Edwards

After our photo session at La Rouge Home and Design, we paused to take a group selfie. From left, JLM Photoshoots' Jared Muller and Leah Shifflett; Shawn Mumma, owner of La Rouge Home and Design; Lisa Tedrick Prejean, managing editor, At Home Places magazine.

Yet, if we bring one principle away from this year, it ought to be the wonder of grace.

What is grace? An elegance defined? A gesture of unparalleled understanding? A forgiveness when regret is unexpressed or undeserved?

At times, grace can be all of those, and when applied generously, grace can frame our lives with love and peace, just as beautifully draped garland frames a room adorned

The holiday ambience at La Rouge Home and Design exudes cozy feelings of togetherness, and as shop owner

in festive attire.

The beauty of grace is found in its unexpected presence

Shawn Mumma and I talked, there was a sense of

in our lives. The mystery of grace is revealed when we

expectation all around us.

become aware of that presence.

From the flickering flames of candles to the pleasures of soft textures, the hope of this season seems to rest in the comfort of home.

Our homes have been our havens this year, and at times,

In one sense, we are the giver. In another, we are the receiver.

As you give and receive this holiday season, may your home be full of wonder and grace.

we probably didn’t appreciate them or our housemates as we should. After all, 2020 has allowed us to clearly see the

Lisa Tedrick Prejean, managing editor

imperfections in our living spaces, in our loved ones and

At Home Places magazine

perhaps most unsettling, in ourselves.

301-745-4026 | lprejean@localiq.com

Holiday

2020

9

F RO M T H E C OV E R

W

hat sets La Rouge Home and Design apart from other furniture stores is the design work shop owner Shawn Mumma offers her customers.

“We help people with design, to avoid design mistakes,” Mumma said. “I’ll ask for pictures, measurements of the room, so I can lay it all out for them.”

Mumma helps customers in her shop at 19761 Leitersburg Pike in Hagerstown, and offers in-home appointments.

“People are spending more time at their houses, noticing things that need to be changed,” said Mumma, noting that current trends include mid-century modern, farmhouse and an eclectic blend of styles.

La Rouge is open Friday, noon to 4 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m.

For more information, call 240-818-7969 or visit the La Rouge Facebook page at www.facebook.com/LaRougeVintage.

Photos by JLM Photoshoots

at home Places 10

table of contents

LO CA L F L AVO R

14

Holiday

2020

A fresh start for Trickling Springs Creamery

A R T S A N D C U LT U R E

20 22 26 32

Engage with art, beauty, ideas at the museum Totem Pole Playhouse General Adam Stephen House Arts Council Gallery offers online shopping option

H O L I D AY S H O P P I N G

36 38

26

Valley Mall initiative aims to ‘bring the mall to you’ Holiday Shopping Guide

WELL+BEING

42 44 48

Nutrition: Healthy food gifts for the holidays Medical centers provide alternatives to in-office visits Dealing with loss and loneliness at the holidays

COMMUNITY

52 58 64 68

Community Foundation, United Way join forces during pandemic Leadership Washington County­—Reflections from the Class of 2020 Private, liberal arts college planned for Hagerstown in 2021 Cacapon Resort State Park

SENIOR LIVING

68

74

All things Medicare & you

FA M I LY

76 78 80

How to celebrate the holidays during a pandemic Fun, educational toys for preschoolers Curl up with a great book

PETS

82

Involve four-legged friends in festivities

HOME TRENDS

84 88 90

84

Cozy nostalgia -- make the most of what you have at home The secrets to cold weather entertaining Listing your home during the holidays

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

91

at home

Your resource for agents, builders, listings and more!

ON THE COVER

maryland • pennsylvania • west virginia

A sense of cozy nostalgia is present throughout La Rouge Home & Design on Leitersburg Pike in Hagerstown. Leah Shifflett and Jared Muller of JLM Photoshoots captured the images for our cover, from the cover ad on page 9 and for La Rouge owner Shawn Mumma’s Design Time column on page 84. For more information about JLM Photoshoots, go to jlmphotoshoots.com.

at home Places 12

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LOCAL FLAVOR

Trickling Springs Creamery in Chambersburg, Pa., is getting a fresh start under new owners.

A fresh start for Trickling Springs Creamery written by JENNIFER A. FITCH photography by COLLEEN MCGRATH

Shuttered in 2019 amid a fraud investigation, Trickling Springs Creamery is now getting a fresh start under new owners with two decades of experience bringing dairy

MARION, Pa. – When Phyllis Pfeiffer worked at Trickling

products to the retail market.

Springs Creamery’s retail store, she kept an eye out for one

The partners behind South Mountain Creamery of

of her beloved customers, an older man who walked with

Middletown, Md., bought the assets of Trickling Springs

the assistance of a cane.

Creamery out of bankruptcy. They reopened the retail store

Pfeiffer always asked what kind of milk he wanted and took it to his car for him. Over time, the two started talking, and she learned that he struggled with depression due to his wife’s debilitating illness.

on U.S. 11 (Molly Pitcher Highway) on Sept. 21, and the production plant shortly beforehand.

Twenty people are employed by the enterprise in Franklin County, Pa., with plans to grow that number. Many of the

They started sharing prayer in addition to milk.

workers, like Pfeiffer, are returning employees with 10 to 15

“A couple days later, he came in and told me he wanted

years of experience.

to thank me for taking time and talking to him,” Pfeiffer said.“There are so many memories.”

The wholesale team reconnected with farmers who previously supplied the business. The feedback was favorable,

Holiday

2020

15

Customers can shop and eat at the Trickling Springs market.

according to Andi Amin, retail development and marketing

which will include selling Undone Kombucha in the store,

director at Trickling Springs Creamery.

she said.

“I think people know the name, know the product, and

South Mountain Creamery was nearing capacity at its

they’re smart enough to separate them from what hap-

plant in Middletown prior to its acquisition of the site in

pened,”Amin said of the U.S. Securities and Exchange

Pennsylvania, a state that boasts agriculture as its No. 1 in-

Commission case.

dustry. The average herd size of Pennsylvania farms is smaller

South Mountain Creamery obtained organic certifica-

than the national average, yet it remains a top dairy producer.

tion for the products that will be sold under the Trickling

“We’re a family dairy farm, so we treat our employees like

Springs Organic label. Those products will include whole,

family. Full transparency, dedication to hard work, being

nonfat, 2% and chocolate milk; half-and-half; and

bold in our decisions and actions – that’s the culture we’re

heavy cream.

planning to establish here, too,”Tony Brusco, owner of

There also is a cream line of nonhomogenized, old-fashioned milk. It tastes like whole milk, but must be shaken because the cream rests on the top.

The Market at Trickling Springs is where customers can find glass bottles of milk, as well as made-to-order sandwiches and baked goods.

“We’re also going to be able to showcase what South Mountain Creamery does so well. We’re going to have

South Mountain Creamery, said in a news release.

In the release, Steve Christian, president of the Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce, praised the operations for being family-owned and operated.

“We are delighted to have locally sourced, organic and farm-fresh items offered once again at the previous location of Trickling Springs Creamery,” he said.

The owners of South Mountain Creamery (Tony and

macaroni and cheese, cheese melts, sundaes … as well as a

Abby Brusco and Ben and Kate Sowers) regularly open the

produce section that will sell lots of local farmers’ produce,”

Frederick County, Md., milking parlor to tours. Three gener-

Amin said.

ations of the Sowers family often are found working on the

A key aspect of South Mountain Creamery’s operations is partnering with local businesses focused on clean eating,

3,000-acre farm, which services 800 stores in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic.

at home Places 16

Undone Kombucha products offer health benefits Those walking into The Market at Trickling Springs will find two taps for filling growlers with kombucha, a fermented tea product.

Hope Bigler of Greencastle, Pa., launched Undone Kombucha in 2017. For her, kombucha was an acquired taste.

“At least for me, drinking kombucha started for the health benefits,” Bigler said.

Kombucha, which originated in China around 220 B.C., contains antioxidants and probiotics. Bigler’s customers have told her the drink helps them with acid reflux, eczema and digestive issues stemming from gluten intolerance.

Bigler was experiencing difficulties in her life in 2015 when she had a vision for a kombucha brewery. She started with books and videos when experimenting with green tea versus black tea, the time for fermentation and the level of sourness. The first batches were made at home in three-gallon crocks.

The market's coffee bar features Denim coffee, a Pennsylvania specialty coffee roaster with coffee shops in Carlisle, Pa., and Chambersburg, Pa.

Amin said the family was happy to bring additional farmers into the fold as partners through the Trickling Springs Creamery connection.

“We’re helping the farmers by giving them a marketplace for their organic milk,” she said.“Organic is something that had been very much a part of Trickling Springs previously.”

Amin said she has enjoyed getting to know the former employees.

“It has been such a wonderful experience for us, being able to offer their jobs back,” she said.

Pfeiffer said she was looking forward to getting to know the new owners and returning to work.

I want to “serve the community with quality food,” she said.

— Places

Below: Cookies are available to purchase at the market.

Today, Undone Kombucha is produced in large batches with four employees at a New Franklin, Pa., facility that contains a taproom.

“It’s an honor to serve people in the community,” Bigler said.

“We get to be part of people’s health and wellness, which is such an honor.”

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Meanwhile, warm cream in small saucepan. When caramel (sugar-water mixture) is ready, slowly whisk in warm cream and continue simmering mixture until it is smooth, another 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat, then whisk in butter, and then salt, to taste. Serve warm over ice cream or in iced coffee.

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A R T S A N D C U LT U R E

Engage with art, beauty, ideas at the museum written by SARAH J. HALL DIRECTOR OF THE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS – WASHINGTON COUNTY Start a family tradition this holiday season with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts — Washington County. Although the pandemic has changed the way we socialize, do business and interact with others, I’m confident the museum provides a safe space (wear your mask, of course) that will add some light to the long winter days as you engage with art, beauty and ideas.

The museum is hosting two temporary exhibitions over the winter months that will delight everyone from families with children in strollers to seasoned art collectors and connoisseurs.

Director Sarah Hall in the museum’s iconic Schreiber Gallery.

Submitted photo.

‘The World of Jan Brett’ Running through Jan. 10,“The World of Jan Brett” features more than 70 illustrations by the beloved children’s book illustrator and author. Brett’s enchanting gouache and watercolor works present a host of her favorite characters — hedgehogs, polar bears, sled dogs, foxes and chickens, to name a few — rendered in her vivid style, which combines the fanciful with precise rendering and a vibrant sense of color reminiscent of illuminations. The exhibition features child-friendly texts that introduce world cultures, as well as an appreciation for the environment. We hung the works a bit lower than usual to provide the right vantage point for younger visitors, and we have step stools available so Brett’s fans can pore over every detail. Visit our website for a full schedule of family friendly virtual programs planned to complement the exhibition.

‘The Dutch Golden Age: Prints by Rembrandt and his Contemporaries’

An installation view of the entry to The World of Jan Brett—meet Brett’s charming array of creatures in this family-friendly exhibition.

Submitted photo.

Equally worthy of intense examination is our other temporary exhibition, scheduled for Nov. 8 through Jan. 24,“The Dutch Golden Age: Prints by Rembrandt and his Contemporaries.” Featuring seven prints by Rembrandt van Rijn (1606–1669) and others by his precursors, peers and followers, the exhibition provides a fascinating look at the importance of prints during Holland’s Golden Age. The Golden Age roughly encompassed the 1600s, a century after the Protestant Reformation (1517), when a growing middle class became more able to afford material goods, including art. Nonreligious subjects became more common

Holiday

2020

21 MUSEUM HOURS Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m. | Closed Mondays Free admission | Free parking

Museum director Sarah J. Hall and Agnita M. Stine Schreiber Curator Daniel Fulco host the monthly talk show called "Let's Talk Art" in which they discuss art and ideas. Submitted photo.

A seasonally appropriate image from Rembrandt, part of the exhibition of Dutch prints at the museum this holiday season. Image details: Rembrandt (Dutch, 1606 – 1669), The Annunciation to the Shepherds, 1632, etching. Collection of Reading Public Museum, Reading, Pennsylvania

in Protestant areas, and landscapes, portraits and scenes of daily life were popular with a new class of collectors buying art for their homes. Prints are part of this story — allowing popular images to be reproduced in large quantities and for a wide audience.

Rembrandt is one of the best-known artists in history, and is also one of the greatest artists to have worked with etching. He is known for his experimental approach to prints, exploiting the ability to alter plates, play with tonality and create different qualities of line. You won’t want to miss the opportunity to see this exhibition.

Here at the museum, we love seeing your masked faces in the galleries, but we continue to provide most of our organized public programs online. Go to our website (wcmfa. org) and social-media pages for details. We have concerts, lectures and book readings planned for the coming weeks, as well as a new monthly “talk show” called “Let’s Talk Art,” streamed live, during which I chat with Agnita M. Stine Schreiber Curator Daniel Fulco about art and ideas. I hope to see you at the museum or online soon.

For questions or information about registration, membership and volunteering, call 301-739-5727 or go to wcmfa.org.

— Places

FOR THE RECORD In the Autumn 2020 edition of At Home Places, Rebecca Massie Lane’s retirement date from the Museum of Fine Arts – Washington County was listed as June 30, 2020, which was the date she originally intended to retire. When the hiring process was slowed due to the pandemic, the museum trustees asked Lane to extend her retirement by one month. Lane remained in her position as museum director until July 31.

A R T S A N D C U LT U R E

Totem Pole Playhouse has strong connections to national entertainment industry written by LINDA HARKCOM

From its humble beginnings in a small converted auto shop in 1950, the Totem Pole Playhouse in Southcentral Pennsylvania has grown to become a nationally prominent theater with connections from Broadway to Hollywood.

The 343-seat theater located within Caledonia State Park in Fayetteville, Pa., had strong ties to the national entertainment industry from its origin. Those connections grew over its 70-year history and established Totem Pole Playhouse as one of the best-known and highly respected summer stock theaters in the country.

“Like any business, the key to a long, successful life is to consistently deliver to the market a high-quality product and experience that customers will come back time and time again for,” said Totem Pole Playhouse Board of Directors Chairman Kevin Schoenberger.“The Totem Pole Playhouse has accomplished that goal for seven decades. This can only be accomplished by a long heritage of dedicated people – staff, actors, donors, board members, volunteers and, most importantly, customers. The theater is a business that people participate (in) out of love and passion for the arts, not money.”

Holiday

2020

23 Other notables that picked up the mantle of artistic director during the theater’s long history include: • Ray Ficca, a professional actor and resident company member who went on to serve as the president of the National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts in Washington, D.C.

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum 2016.

Submitted photo.

The playhouse was founded 70 years ago by Karl Genus and his wife, Muriel Benson. Genus, a pioneer in the early days of television, became one of the founding members of the Directors Guild of America. He served on the board of directors of the DGA for 27 years, many of those as vice president, until his death in 2003.

In 1953, William H.“Bill” Putch, a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, was hired as Totem Pole’s artistic director. During his tenure, Putch directed more than 300 productions, many starring his wife, Emmy Award-winning actress Jean Stapleton from the classic TV series “All in the Family.” It was during that time period that the playhouse achieved national prominence.

On Nov. 12, 1969, the original building was destroyed by a fire. Just a little more than eight months later, on July 18, 1970, the playhouse opened its summer season in a new building in a new location, on the site of the old campground at Caledonia State Park, where the organization still performs today.

Putch ran the playhouse for 30 years, until his death in November 1983. His daughter, Pamela Putch, with the help of then-resident actors Carl Schurr and Wil Love, led the playhouse during its 1984 summer season. After that, Pamela Putch left Totem Pole Playhouse. She went on to serve as the senior vice president of production for NBC Universal.

Schurr and Love continued running the theater as producing artistic director and associate artistic director, respectively, until 2008. In addition to producing the summer seasons at the playhouse, they staged productions that moved to Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia. Together they produced, directed and acted in more than 100 productions. During their 25-year tenure, Totem Pole became the summer home to many talented actors, including Tony-Award winners such as Jayne Houdyshell and Julie White. It was also during that time the playhouse became a not-for-profit corporation.

• Rowan Joseph, a professional actor who has appeared on television in“VEEP”and in several films, including: "The Campaign,”“The Princess Diaries 2,”“Raising Helen,”and “Grudge Match,”to name a few. He also directed and produced the feature film,“Johnny Got His Gun.” For the past two and a half years, James R. Nadeau has been the Totem Pole Playhouse’s associate producer. Like his predecessors, Nadeau came to the theater with a lofty résumé. He came to Totem Pole after completing a 10-year contract with Stiletto Entertainment in Los Angeles as a casting director. An Equity actor, he also worked with the Andrew Lloyd Webber’s team performing in “Music of the Night,” as well as with Cameron Mackintosh in “Hey, Mr. Producer!” Some of his favorite Equity roles include Bud Frump in "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying”; Hannah in “La Cage Aux Folles”; Freddie in "My Fair Lady”; and Billy Lawlor in “42nd Street.”

A 2017 production of Driving Miss Daisy featured performances by Michael Learned and Lance Nichols. Submitted photo.

Attracting talented actors Nadeau said the playhouse is a professional Equity theater that attracts many talented actors, including film and television stars such as Michael Learned from “The Waltons,” Loretta Swit from “MASH” and Melissa Gilbert, best known for “Little House on the Prairie.”

at home Places 24

The full cast of A Christmas Carol fills the stage in the annual favorite in 2017. Submitted photo.

“We also hold auditions in New York City, as well as several universities in our area,” Nadeau said, noting that the theater produces a mixture of plays and musicals each year.

“We usually have five shows in the summer, and then have our own production of ‘A Christmas Carol’ at Gettysburg (Pa.) College‘s Majestic Theater in December. Each year, that show is attended by the public and approximately 2,500 students at special student matinees. There is something magical about watching young people, some of whom have never seen live theater before, watch this production,” said Rose Tripi, former board of directors chairwoman.

Tripi said people come from everywhere to see productions at the playhouse.

“It’s not uncommon to have folks from neighboring states, as well as bus groups from all over the East Coast join us for shows,” she said.

Over the past several years, Tripi said audiences at the playhouse have grown considerably.

“We launched a campaign to raise money to repurpose our current facilities to accommodate this increase by providing additional restrooms, a gift shop/snack bar. We renovated our office space to streamline our operations, and our rehearsal hall now mirrors the actual size of the stage,” Tripi said.

In addition to producing live professional productions at affordable prices, Tripi said arts education is an important part of the organization’s mission statement.

“We have had youth summer theater camps for years, and present the Totem Pole Awards annually to recognize outstanding achievement in musical theater production and performances by high school students in Adams, Franklin and Fulton counties,”Tripi said.

COVID-19 challenges Throughout its 70 years, the organization has faced many challenges, but nothing like those it is facing now due to the coronavirus pandemic. Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf ordered all nonessential businesses and organizations to close their doors on March 16, which included all theaters across the state. As the pandemic unfolded, the shutdown order was extended, leading the organization to make a hard decision. On April 15, the board of directors announced it would postpone the 70th-anniversary gala scheduled for May 16, as well as the entire 2020 summer subscription series, which was rescheduled for the summer of 2021.

As state restrictions on public gatherings continue – combined with health and safety concerns for actors expressed by the Actors’ Equity Association – Totem Pole, like many other theaters, had to extend cancellations of productions through the end of the year. That included canceling the theater’s annual production of “A Christmas Carol” for the first time in almost 15 years.

Nadeau said the shows that were scheduled for the 2020 season - “Always … Patsy Cline,”“The Sound of Music,”

Holiday

2020

25

Mamma Mia 2018. Submitted photo.

“Beehive, The ‘60s Musical,”“West Side Story” and the play “Love, Sex, and the I.R.S.” were postponed until the 2021 season.

“Most small summer theaters do not survive the challenges of staying afloat for 70 years. I believe we have survived because the community, board and staff will do whatever they need to do to keep this theater alive. Their dedication and devotion to this theater in the woods is unparalleled,”Tripi said.

Not being able to produce shows and having limited fundraising capabilities have put a financial strain on the organization.

“Like the rest of the world, no one saw the pandemic coming. We were in the middle of planning a huge celebratory season for our 70th anniversary, only to be blindsided by the pandemic and the necessity to postpone the 2020 season,”Schoenberger said.“To make matters worse, we were just at the final stages of completing a major facilities upgrade, expanding a much-needed women’s bathroom, gift shop and rehearsal hall. The lost revenue from a postponed season was not part of the plan to finance the project. Like most organizations, we’ve had to take on unwanted debt to bridge us to the 2021 season, adding strain to our financial position, which is normally, at best, break-even.”

Supporting the theater With the generosity of a longtime supporter of the theater, Schoenberger said the organization was able to do a successful “mini” fundraising drive, which ran through May and June.

“This helped give us the much-needed funds to support the operating expenses that just can’t be ‘turned off’ with the postponement of the season. Our next major fundraising efforts will be our annual fund drive this November/December and participation in the Adams County Community Foundation Giving Spree on Nov. 5,” Schoenberger said.

For those who want to see the organization make it through this difficult time, Schoenberger said there are several ways to help.

“I’ll start with the simplest thing first: Make plans to visit the theater in 2021,” he said.“More importantly, share the experience with friends. If you belong to a group or organization, consider contacting the theater about our special group rates. If you’re capable, consider financially supporting the theater as a patron through our annual fund drive.

If you’re a business owner, consider underwriting a production as a show sponsor, and receive special recognition as a supporter of the theater and the community. If you’re familiar with any organizations or foundations that support the arts through grants, please bring them to our attention.

If you’d like to volunteer your services to the theater, we’d love to have you. The opportunities to support the Totem Pole Playhouse are endless, and every little bit helps.”

When interviewed in mid-September, Nadeau said the organization had not yet set a date for 2021 tickets to go on sale. But the playhouse does have gift certificates available by calling the box office at 888-805-7056, ext. 1, or going to totempoleplayhouse.org.

“Over the past 70 years, the Totem Pole Playhouse, like the country, has survived many trials and tribulations … a fire that destroyed the original theater, deep recessions, wars, the great financial crisis, near bankruptcy, etc.,” Schoenberger said.“We’re confident that, with the support of our wonderful community, our patrons, dedicated staff and the committed love for the Totem Pole Playhouse, we will add the pandemic of 2020 to that list.”

— Places

A R T S A N D C U LT U R E

General Adam Stephen House

offers glimpse of colonial times

written by TRICIA LYNN STRADER

The Gen. Adam Stephen House in Martinsburg, W.Va., is the 18th-century home of the town's founder. Photo by Gail Zurenda.

A short distance from Martinsburg, W.Va.’s lovely downtown homes, tucked away next to a stream and railroad tracks, is the 18th-century home of the town’s founder, Gen. Adam Stephen.

Known locally as the Adam Stephen House, this gem was saved from disappearing forever 61 years ago.

Stephen was a distinguished veteran of the Revolutionary War and a major general. A native of Scotland, he was born around the year 1718, and came to the Virginia frontier in 1754, at the beginning of the French and Indian War. In 1770, he acquired land along Tuscarora Creek in present-day Berkeley County, where he later sold lots to develop the town of Martinsburg.

Built of native limestone in the late 1770s to early 1780s, the Adam Stephen House is an example of colonial stone architecture. It is believed that the large stone house was built on the site of a smaller log home constructed by Stephen in the early 1770s.

Stephen operated two mills, a distillery and an armory along Tuscarora Creek in the town that was chartered by the Virginia assembly in 1778 as Martinsburg.

The town was named after Thomas Bryan Martin (nephew of Thomas, Lord Fairfax) who was the owner of Green-

John DiCarlo portrays Adam Stephen. Photo by Gail C. Zurenda

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The Gen. Adam Stephen House on East John Street in Martinsburg, W.Va., was built in the late 1770s to early 1780s. Photos by Trica Strader

way Court, and the steward and land agent of his uncle’s Northern Neck proprietary lands.

By the beginning of the American Revolution, the town had been established and was starting to flourish. After Stephen returned from the Revolution, he owned the house until 1786, when he leased a house and farm outside of town, and he sold the limestone house to Andrew Siling.

In 1787, Stephen purchased the farm he leased the previous year, and that site likely was where he died in 1791.

A number of families lived in the house until it was abandoned and fell into poor repair during the 1950s.

A work of restoration In 1959, Mary Vernon Mish became interested in renovating the house because it was historic. She was instrumental in saving the Hager House in Hagerstown, and a friend of hers told her about the Adam Stephen House.

Mish and others from Martinsburg and as far away as California convinced William Evers, former Martinsburg resident and homeowner, to donate the house to the city of Martinsburg. Mish and the Shenandoah Valley Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution solicited help from other people, organizations and the state.

“People like the DAR, Shriners, Job Corps, woman’s club and garden clubs came forward to help,” said volunteer Sandra Riggleman, who helps every year with events such as Colonial Christmas.

A $35,000 state allocation of surplus funds – provided thanks to the efforts of West Virginia Sen. Clarence E. Martin Jr. – and an annual contribution of $500 from the

City of Martinsburg started a fund that grew with annual contributions from the Shenandoah Valley and William Henshaw chapters of the DAR, the state DAR, and individuals and groups such as the Shenandoah-Potomac Garden Council and participating garden clubs, who also helped with landscaping.

Shriners donated sales of a commemorative coin. The Woman’s Club of Martinsburg held a commemorative spoon fundraiser. People from Harpers Ferry Job Corps weatherproofed the Triple Brick Building. Sons of the American Revolution made donations. Several garden clubs of the Shenandoah-Potomac Garden Council participated in the renovations, furniture donations and landscaping at the Gen. Adam Stephen House.

Trinity Episcopal Church tore down the parish house in 1965 and donated limestone for the Adam Stephen House restoration.

Adam Stephen, a vestryman in the Episcopal church, had given the property at the corner of South and Church streets to the Episcopal church. Furnishings for Stephen’s bedroom were purchased by the Memorial Association in 1965, thanks to funds from the West Virginia DAR. Thenstate DAR Regent Virginia Johnston and her mother, Mrs. W.S. Johnston, embroidered a bedspread for the Sheraton maple tester bed. The pattern was a reproduction of a crewel museum piece, done in shades of blue on a homespun background. William Evers donated the Triple Brick building in 1960, which is used by local groups as a meeting place and for small banquets.

Historical treasure Keith Hammersla worked at the Gen. Adam Stephen House as a volunteer for a few years before being employed in 1993 as its curator. He said he believes the house is a historical treasure, whose interior looks like something one would see in Colonial Williamsburg or Curator Keith Hammersla Historic Fredericksburg, Va. “The Adam Stephen House serves as a reminder of the 18th-century origins of the town through its architecture, decor and furnishings,” Hammersla said.

The Gen. Adam Stephen Memorial Association celebrated the 60th anniversary a year ago with activities to commemorate saving the home. The historic house museum is open

at home Places 28

The kitchen features a glimpse of traditional colonial holiday meal preparations. Photo by Gail C. Zurenda

seasonally on Saturdays and Sundays from the beginning of May through the end of October and for other special occasions, such as Heritage Weekend and Colonial Christmas.

There were no Christmas trees in the colonies until the 1830s, a tradition that made its way to our shores after Prince Albert introduced it in Victorian England.

Santa Claus did not make an appearance in America until at least the 1840s.

The yule log was a superstition long held. A large log was decorated with special greens. It was meant to burn during the entire holiday season. Its remains were saved to start a new yule log the next year.

Colonial Christmas is held on the first two weekends of December, and includes candlelight tours of the home led by costumed docents, refreshments and period music provided in the parlor. There are no electric lights, tinsel, bubble lights and other modern trappings of the season. Instead, decorations include ribbons, greenery, nuts and fruit.

“We portray ourselves as guests at the general’s house,” said Martin Keesecker, president of Gen. Adam Stephen Memorial Association.“It draws people into history and makes it a little more special for them to see what life was like in the 18th century.”

In the kitchen, a holiday meal is being prepared.

Martin Keesecker, president of Gen. Adam Stephen Memorial Stephen can be seen in his Association. Submitted photo bedroom, and others might play cards in his doctor’s office. The kids’ room is alive with children playing games of the time period.

Lynn Steptoe and child re-enactors, from left, Arabella Cole, Braylen Cole and Grace Gum, enjoy 18th-century games in the children’s bedroom of the Gen. Adam Stephen House. Photo by Tricia Lynn Strader

In colonial times, holiday decorations were created from natural surroundings and included evergreen branches, fruits and vegetables..

Photo by Gail C. Zurenda

A year of importance to the home or family is always chosen, and the scripted skits performed by volunteers in each room are based on happenings that year around Martinsburg or the young nation.

In 2019, the year was 1779 because that is the year that Ann, Stephen's daughter, married Alexander Spotswood Dandridge. Dandridge was the grandson of former Virginia Gov. Alexander Spotswood; second cousin to First Lady Martha Dandridge Custis Washington; and brother-in-law to Patrick Henry.

Heritage Weekend Heritage Weekend is always a special time for the Gen. Adam Stephen House and other historic homes, such as the Belle Boyd House, Boydville, and sometimes Aspen Hall and other locations.

At the Adam Stephen House, costumed docents give guided tours. Outdoors, there are 18th-century re-enactors showing what life was like then, and period-style children’s games.

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Marty Keesecker and Laura Glasscock dance at a Christmas celebration in 2014 at the Gen. Adam Stephen House in Martinsburg, W.Va. Photo by Trica Strader

ease about participating. It’s important to draw the younger ones into the history, and for others, to make it more alive. It gets the kids away from their electronics for a bit.”

Colonial Christmas Fresh greenery greets visitors at the front door of the Gen. Adam Stephen House. Photo by Gail Zurenda

Children are always considered when planning activities for visitors at the Adam Stephen House because the members know it is important to not only pass history on to the next generation, but make it a fun learning experience.

Keesecker knows it’s important to get young people involved. He became interested in the Adam Stephen House as a teenager when he walked his Irish setter along the grounds and let it play in the nearby creek.

That love of history has endured. He visited as a young man a few times, and when he took his own family to tour the house, he became interested in 18th-century life, a passion that’s lasted for decades. He’s been president of the association for 25 years.

When his children were young, the family encouraged playing 18th-century games.

“We would have our 3- and 4-year-old, and our toddler, running around in 18th-century attire and playing,” he said.

“It was the way we knew to be involved and still have a child along.”

He said when other children see their peers participating in an activity, they are drawn in.

“If it’s all adults, they’re a little standoffish,” Keesecker said.

“When you put a child into it, it makes them feel more at

Due to COVID-19, the Adam Stephen House was closed under the governor's executive order in the spring, but it opened later in the season when that order was lifted.

The house returned to its normal schedule on weekends in June.

It will be open the first two weekends in December for Colonial Christmas, but there have been changes.

The Gen. Adam Stephen Memorial Association switched from the normal activity-centered Christmas celebration to a more low-key, laid-back open house.

“Due to the requirements for following safety guidelines, the live music, dancing and skits which are usually performed in each room have been canceled,” Hammersla said.

“The association's docents will not be offering refreshments inside the Adam Stephen House, nor will they be having the Christmas shop next door in the Triple Brick Museum, as they have done in the last several years. Instead, the Gen. Adam Stephen House will be decorated as usual for the holidays, with the Williamsburg-style colonial period decorations, using lots of evergreen, fruit, nuts and berries.

The house will be lit by candlelight, and visitors will be permitted to walk through the rooms, following the guidelines for social distancing, to look at the decorations.”

Outside, weather permitting, there will be luminarias lighting the way to the house and a bonfire on the lower lawn, which will include the lighting of the yule log, which traditionally (in the British Isles), began the holiday season.

at home Places 30

Light refreshments, including cookies and popcorn, and hot beverages such as cider or cocoa, will be offered outside.

Hammersla encouraged anyone who has never seen the founder's home to visit and "be prepared to be amazed."

“Visitors might also learn some things about how life was lived in the early years of our nation's history, as the docent-guided tour offers insights to visitors so that they can compare and contrast how things were done then versus how they are done now,” Hammersla said.

To become a member of the association or to volunteer, visit the house; contact the curator and leave a message at 304-267-4434; or send a message through the Gen. Adam Stephen House Facebook page.

“We can always use a few volunteers and encourage people to get involved in their local history,” Keesecker said.

“A love of history keeps me involved. Parents and grandparents – everybody – can take their children there to get involved in history. I’d welcome any young people who want to get involved.”

Throughout the home, rooms are adorned with Williamsburg-style colonial period decorations, featuring evergreen, fruit, nuts and berries.

The Gen. Adam Stephen House and Triple Brick Museum are at 309 and 313 E. John St., close to downtown Martinsburg.

— Places

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Artists invited to submit work for Community Art Show; Gallery offers online shopping option for the holidays written by MARY ANNE BURKE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, WASHINGTON COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL INC. Fall has quickly passed and now we look forward to a festive – although somewhat unique – winter and holiday season.

Each December, the Washington County Arts Council showcases the best local art of the year with an invitation to local artists working in any medium to submit new works for the annual Community Art Show. The 2020 juried exhibition will be displayed in the gallery and virtually from Dec. 3 through Jan. 5.

Mark Youngblood and Teresa Roberts. Submitted photos.

The 2020 jurists are Mark Youngblood of Youngblood Studios and Teresa Roberts, a retired Maryland public secondary school visual-arts teacher. Prizes awarded in 2-D, 3-D and photography for the 2020 exhibit are sponsored by the Washington County Arts Council, with funding made possible by the Maryland State Arts Council. An additional prize will be awarded for People’s Choice.

As in previous years, voting for a favored entry as People’s Choice is open to all. Voting will take place in the gallery, if you choose to visit, and will be available virtually on our website, washingtoncountyarts.com.

Online shopping available The WCAC has made a major effort to ensure a successful holiday season for regional artists who have consigned work in the Gallery Shop. The remarkable reputation for the craftsmanship displayed there has made holiday shopping a must for many. WCAC is now “open for business,” not only at its downtown Hagerstown location, but virtually on its website.

New this season is the opportunity to purchase items virtually from the gallery for gift-giving, as well as visiting the gallery in person. Select gallery artwork can be viewed and purchased on the WCAC website by online payment or by calling the gallery manager, Chris Brewer, at 301791-3132.

Online purchases can be picked up at the arts council office or delivered to your vehicle. The arts council and shop are accessible by using the A&E parking deck at 25 Renaissance Way. The main entrance is on the third level (Potomac Street). There is an elevator on each level for your convenience. Hours are Tuesday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Washington County Arts Council congratulates local artists Youngblood (photographer) and Antonio

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33 Mendez (painter/sculptor) for being selected to have work included in a portfolio book showcasing rich examples of pieces by Maryland visual artists. The book project – coordinated by the Maryland State Arts Council and initiated

by Maryland first lady Yumi Hogan – is expected to be published by early next year.

The WCAC realizes how important it is to stay safe, but stay connected. Follow local artists and worldwide activities (COVID-19 updates; visual arts; music; dance; creative writing; and more) at washingtoncountyarts.com and facebook.com/wcartscouncil.

— Places

Artists featured by Washington County Arts Council include, left to right, top row: Fred Cleaver, William Roberts, Charles Paul. Bottom row: R. Benjamin Jones (deceased), Daniel Webber, Todd Geiman, Neil Super. Submitted photo.

Artists featured by Washington County Arts Council include, left to right, top row: Annamarie Poole, Tim Rowland, Katie Toothman, Stephen O’Farrell, Nikki Serra. Bottom row: Jennie Avila, Jackie Shaw, Sukey Rankin, Steve Wright, Candice Mowbray. Submitted photo.

Artists featured by Washington County Arts Council include, left to right, top row: Veronica Wilson, Dana Ebersole, Beth Carey, Eve Adkins. Bottom row: Pamela Hall, Chad Hemmert, Leslie Garner Moore, Bobby Croft, Gina Copanzzi. Submitted photo.

at home Places 34

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H O L I D AY S H O P P I N G

New Valley Mall initiative aims to

‘bring the mall to you’ this holiday season

written by LAUREN LAROCCA Over the past decade, holiday shopping has continued to migrate from in-store to online, but 2020 will likely see the biggest increase in shoppers going virtual.

If COVID-19 restrictions are still in place by Thanksgiving, limiting capacity at retail stores, we aren’t likely to see the typical holiday buzz, bustling and long lines at Valley Mall, Hagerstown Premium Outlets, the Centre at Hagerstown on Garland Groh Boulevard and other shopping centers in the area. The limitations brought on by coronavirus, combined with many consumers facing financial hardship and planning to spend less on holiday shopping this year, likely will result in fewer people perusing shops.

But holiday shopping can still be a fun tradition — and possibly less stressful — because of the shift away from crowded malls and toward leisurely online buying that allows items to be delivered right to your door, and to the homes of family and friends.

Knowing that back-to-school shopping would be affected by COVID-19, Preit, the company that owns Valley Mall, as well as more than a dozen more malls on the East Coast and one in Michigan, implemented a new e-commerce initiative called sMall Surprises. It aims to “bring the mall

to you,” said Heather Crowell, executive vice president of strategy and communications for Preit.

Through smallsurprises.shop, parents, relatives and friends can order surprise boxes to be sent to students anywhere in the country.

“We were thinking about the challenges the industry was facing, and the challenges the consumer and parents were facing,” Crowell said.“We were looking for ways to solve multiple problems: supporting the malls, bringing the mall to consumers and spreading some cheer. We thought, ‘let’s infuse some joy in this stressful time.’”

Based on a short, online quiz about a child (name, age, favorite color, interests, personality, etc.), each gift pack is personalized and contains items that are selected by a personal shopper.

Preit initially thought it would offer the Mystery Gift ($40), Fun Pack ($40) and Awesome Pack ($60) for a limited time, but because the boxes have been so popular for birthdays and other occasions — in addition to the start of the school year — the company decided to continue offering them.

Additional boxes will be introduced, too, as the year goes on, Crowell said. Personal shopper and creative stylist Sarah

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Each gift pack is personalized and contains items that are selected by a personal shopper, based on information the buyer supplies about the child. Submitted photos

Gleeson is working with Preit to create fall boxes for men and women, as well as holiday boxes for all ages.

‘Is this still cool?’

Gleeson, who is based just outside Philadelphia, is responsible for hand-selecting items for each box. She shops at malls owned by Preit in the Philadelphia area, but packages are shipped all over the country.

“I get the quiz results and start building their box based on their favorite color — or it could be a rainbow box or a metallic box — and their personality. Are they silly? Are they mischievous? Maybe I’ll put a whoopee cushion in there,” Gleeson said.“And of course, I curate the box based on their age.”

An animal lover in second grade might get a Pet Shop dog, which is popular right now, Gleeson said. All things Baby Yoda are favorites, too, as are slime and fake poop.

“I always try to make sure what I’m buying is on trend,” she said.“I shop all day, every day, and I’m always browsing online or reading about the latest trends. I also have eight nieces and nephews of all different ages, so I’m always asking them, ‘Is this still cool?’”

Gleeson makes sure to include educational items, too. A trendy item recently is the Disney Store’s build-your-own arcade kit, based on“Toy Story,”which is fun and educational.

The fall boxes are catered less toward an individual and more toward areas of interest among adults. People can choose from categorized items. For instance, for the woman who loves to cook from home, a box might include a new cookbook, Moscow Copper mug, candle and face mask in fall colors. A box for a man might include a beer koozie or a scarf.

“We’re trying to cater to a number of people,” Gleeson said.“People forward emails or Facebook posts, and I’ve been following the hashtag (#shopsmallsurprises), and I’ve seen a lot of great reaction videos.

“Especially for kids — how often do kids get a package in the mail?” she added.“We got this really fun packing tape that matches a lot of the stickers and things inside the boxes. I decorate the outside with their name and try to make it really colorful and personalized. I actually handwrite in each box individually. I want it to be really special.”

More Information: To shop for kid packs, fall packs and holiday packs, go to smallsurprises.shop. Follow the hashtag #shopsmallsurprises on social media to track the latest surprises.

— Places

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courtesy of METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION Opportunities for charitable giving abound. The most convenient way to give back may entail something people already do nearly every day: shop.

Supporting worthy causes and making a difference doesn't have to consume a lot of time or effort. Various nonprofit organizations have streamlined the process by working in conjunction with international, national and even local merchants. At point of service registers or when checking out online, consumers can allocate funds to worthy causes. Here are some examples of giving tied to retail.

Amazon Smile Amazon enables shoppers to follow a distinct link (https://smile.amazon.com) in order to directly donate to hundreds of charities. Simply designate a charity from the drop down menu and Amazon will donate 0.5 percent of the price of eligible purchases to your charity of choice.

Collection jars Visit any number of stores and you'll probably come across collection jars or bins for various charities. Some merchants may have collections for coats or gently used items that can be delivered to the needy. Others will ask if you want

to purchase a new item from their stock to donate to worthy causes.

One popular retail collection has been going strong for decades at McDonald's restaurants in support of Ronald McDonald House charities.

Checkout charities

METRO

GIVE BACK WHILE SHOPPING

Checkout charities are another way that campaigns raise money.

They come in various forms. Some require customers to purchase a paper card that is displayed at the store and then a donation is made to a particular charity, such as Children's Miracle Network or the ALS Foundation. Many stores, both national retailers and mom-and-pops, have round up charities that enable customers to round up their change to the nearest whole dollar on credit card transactions and donate the difference to the charity the store is assisting.

Through the RoundUpApp, debit and credit card transactions provide a stream of recurring donations.

Checkout charities can highlight organizations people might never find on their own. However, they do not give potential donors a chance to research a charity's mission.

Shoppers can conduct that research on their own as part of being responsible donors.

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at home Places 42

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Give the gift of health for the holidays written by BRANDY (BAXTER) STAYMAN REGISTERED DIETITIAN Food often is a central part of our holiday celebrations, including the gifts we give others. It is common to give cookies, pies or other goodies to our co-workers, family and friends this time of year. However, if you would like to balance out some of the treats with a good-for-you gift this year, here are some options:

Healthy subscription boxes Subscription boxes are popular these days, and are the gifts that keep giving, even after the ball drops on New Year's Eve. There are several subscription services that provide fresh, in-season fruit monthly. There are some specifically for citrus.

It’s great to get vitamin C in the winter. You also can gift someone with a meal kit delivery service, such as Freshly or Hello Fresh, to give people some cooking inspiration.

Teas Tea is full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Giving a gift basket of a variety of teas, along with cute tea-making accessories, will give the tea lover in your life some variety.

Infused olive oil and vinegar Olive oil is incredibly heart-healthy and has anti-inflammatory properties. Vinegar adds flavor without sodium or cholesterol. Varieties available online and at local specialty shops can add an appealing touch to recipes. Specialty olive oils are infused with a variety of herbs, spices and flavorings to add a ton of flavor to foods, and are a little fancier than

what is available at local grocery stores. Examples of oil flavors include garlic, butter, Italian blends, jalapeño lime and chipotle. Vinegars are available in a variety of flavors, including balsamic, champagne, mango and jalapeño.

Specialty shops usually have great recommendations for combinations of oil and vinegar to use together.

Grow-your-own-herb kits Herbs can be easily grown on a windowsill year-round.

They are a natural, healthy way to add a ton of flavor to food. There are many grow-your-own herbs kits available for parsley, basil, cilantro, mint and more.

Homemade granola Want to go the more DIY route for your gift? Make homemade granola and place it in a pretty jar with a bow for an easy, healthful treat. Most homemade granolas include basic ingredients commonly found in pantries, such as oats, honey, nuts and vanilla.

Virtual cooking class tickets There are many benefits to cooking your own meals at home. Gifting someone with cooking classes, whether virtually or in-person if available, is a great way to teach new chefs some tricks and experienced cooks even more tricks. Pair a gift of cooking classes with a cookbook packed with healthful recipes so the recipient can test new skills even further.

— Places

Brandy (Baxter) Stayman is a registered dietitian with Optimal Health Nutrition Counseling, a division of Capital Women’s Care.

Nutrition questions can be submitted to her blog at brandnewyounutrition.wordpress.com/contact.

Local doctor to provide robotic knee surgery Patients needing a knee replacement will soon have a new option, thanks to the efforts of orthopaedic surgeon Alvaro Cabezas, MD. Dr. Cabezas has been training for the last year on a robotic system that allows surgeons to provide precise personalized care during knee replacement surgery.

He plans to begin offering the robotic knee surgeries at the end of October and has identified a few patients who will be good candidates for the procedure.

“I’m always looking for innovative ways to improve patient outcomes,” says Dr. Cabezas, who has been practicing with The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics – Parkway Division for seven years.

Dr. Cabezas received training on the Rosa Knee System, which supports surgeons in performing Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA). The system assists with bone resections and allows assessment of soft tissues during surgery. This enables surgeons to determine the correct position of the replacement.

The procedure allows for real time range of motion assessment, takes into account a patient’s anatomy and enables surgeons to collect valuable data.

A robotic arm uses trackers to find the proper place on the knee to make appropriate cuts for the replacement.

“These trackers can tell the machine where the cuts go – where we’re going to be cutting the knee to implant the knee replacement,” explains Cabezas, who estimates that he performs 150 to 250 knee replacement surgeries a year.

The procedure’s accuracy allows for a patient to have a knee replacement that leads to better balance, a more natural feeling knee.

Because of Dr. Cabeza’s efforts to learn this skill, patients who typically seek this type of surgery outside of the area will be able to stay close to home.

“Now they won’t have to travel as far,” Cabezas says.

“They will have this technology at their doorstep.”

For information about the procedure, contact The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics – Parkway Division at 301-665-4575, or request an appointment online at hipknee.com.

GETTY IMAGES

WELL + BEING

Medical centers provide alternatives to in-office visits Telemedicine visits, drive-through options and mobile clinics have become the norm during the pandemic — and they might be the future, too written by LAUREN LAROCCA At a time when medical care is of the utmost importance, many people have hesitated to visit doctors’ offices for fear of putting themselves at risk for contracting COVID-19.

While several hospitals, medical centers and urgent-care locations in the area provided virtual-care options to patients prior to the arrival of the coronavirus, they have leaned into and expanded their telemedicine offerings during the pandemic and have seen a huge uptick in usage.

WVU Medicine WVU Medicine saw a major increase in video visits and phone consultations throughout the first few months of the pandemic, especially after many insurance companies waived

Dr. Hassan Saeed, who practices at WVU Medicine’s Spring Mills Primary Care & Pediatrics location, is on a phone visit with a patient.

Photo courtesy of WVU Medicine

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45 the co-pay fee typically associated with telemedicine services.

For a few months, WVU Medicine also made urgent-care visits free, even for people who had no insurance.

“That was really instrumental for us because it allowed us to switch gears,”said Aaron Henry, vice president of ambulatory operations at WVU Medicine.“We kind of chuckle and say that we did the work of four years in four weeks, getting all of our physicians online for video.

“For the majority of appointments, we found that the video visits work really well, especially when the patients don’t want to come in, and they allowed us to accommodate the large number of patients we were seeing before. They function just like a regular visit. Most visits are less laying on of hands and more conversation between doctor and patient — what are your medications, how are you feeling, do you have any symptoms, and so on.”

WVU Medicine never stopped in-person visits, but at one point, about half of all visits were virtual, Henry said. Now about 10% of appointments are virtual, across urgent-, special- and primary-care visits.

Reese Cochran is a radiologic technologist at Valley Health Urgent Care Spring Mills. Submitted photo

WellSpan Health WellSpan Health moved in a similar fashion, having offered virtual options in the past, but ramping them up when COVID hit.

“WellSpan Health has experienced a monumental increase in the number of digital visits since the start of Dr. Stephen Flack of WellSpan Family the pandemic,”said Medicine in Chambersburg, Pa., uses a Niki Hinckle, vice pres- computer for a virtual visit with a patient.

Photo by Niki Hinckle ident of operations.

WellSpan conducted an average of 1,900 video visits per day in April, matching the number of video visits during all of 2019. In August, an average of about 10,500 video and phone visits were done each week across its primary- and specialty-care practices.

“We have been reimagining the way we deliver care to accommodate social distancing and provide the safest possible environment for our patients. … We believe in harnessing the power of a ‘what if’ culture among our staff to come up with new, innovative ideas,”Hinckle said.“For flu vaccinations, underway right now, WellSpan patients have the option to call ahead and arrange for a flu injection to happen in the parking lot, right in the comfort of their car.”

WellSpan also offers 24/7 care through WellSpan Online Urgent Care, seven days a week.

Rob Snider is paramedic and clinical coordinator at Valley Health Urgent Care Spring Mills. Submitted photo

Valley Health Valley Health Urgent Care modified its offerings at various locations.

“We never closed, but we implemented telehealth options (in March) for community members who were potentially nervous about coming in,”said Kristy Shannon, director of Valley Health Urgent Care in Martinsburg, W.Va.“We also utilized it to do some prescreening for patients so we could eliminate any extra time that they might have to spend in the clinic.”

Patients can check in online through the Valley Health website or call the clinic for a telehealth visit, undergo an advanced screening and then receive a link for their virtual visit.

Completing paperwork online also speeds up the process, keeping the“urgent”in urgent care. Whether they walk in or schedule a virtual visit, patients’ waiting time is still typically less than an hour.

Meritus Health Primarily as a way to minimize in-person traffic, several Meritus offices adopted video visits, something they had not offered before the pandemic.

at home Places 46

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In addition to mobile COVID clinic and testing sites, Meritus plans to set up clinics throughout the area to prepare for flu season. Because of the overlap in symptoms between the flu and coronavirus, when flu season hits, patients exhibiting symptoms will need to be isolated from those who need emergency care unrelated to the flu or COVID, in an attempt to limit the spread of the coronavirus among staff and patients.

— Places

METRO

“Thankfully, we’re in the age and day of FaceTime and Facebook Live and other video chats, where this seems almost like an extension of that, except it’s a medical discussion,” said Dr. Mahesh Krishnamoorthy, an internist at Meritus Internal Medicine – Robinwood, Suite 150.

The staff and patients expeDr. Mahesh Krishnamoorthy rienced only a slight learning curve, he said, and now that the system and technology are in place, ensuring privacy and with a steady workflow implemented, he believes telemedicine will continue long after the pandemic is a thing of the past.

“I can safely say that virtual care as a modality of engaging with and caring for patients is here to stay,” Krishnamoorthy said.“I don’t think it’s going to go away because we have seen the benefits firsthand — both physicians and patients — and the technology enables us to connect with patients literally anywhere … as long as they have access to the medical records and they have internet access. This is expected to be part of our toolkit now.”

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Motivator.

Mentor.

In Liberia, Serina worked as a finance manager. But when she moved to the U.S. and saw how nurses cared for her sick son, she became inspired to switch careers.

Today, Serina cares for patients like they are her own family members, teaching them about their illnesses and empowering them to make life-long changes for better health. A mentor to new nurses, Serina is also studying for her doctorate.

She wants to inspire future nurses – just as the ones who cared for her son nearly 20 years ago inspired her.

Discover the full article at Meritushealth.com/ AmazingNurses

WELL + BEING

GETTY IMAGES

How to cope with a sense of loss during the holidays

written by ROBIN MORRIS LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER BROOK LANE HEALTH SERVICES The 2020 holiday season is approaching and likely will be very different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Family gatherings might be limited, with less travel and the addition of social distancing. Public events, concerts and worship services might look different, if they happen at all.

These changes could result in a sense of loss for some people. Others might experience a swell of grief during the holidays due to the loss of loved ones and friends. Family and togetherness are key themes for the holiday season, which can make this time of year difficult for people who are grieving. Such stressors can make it challenging to cope.

Here are some strategies to better deal with the feelings of loss you might experience this holiday season:

what you have, rather than compare yourself and/or your circumstancesto what you think others have.

Don’t make comparisons

One of the best things you can do is give yourself permission to feel whatever it is you are feeling. Try not to fall prey to the belief that you have to feel a certain way or do certain things in order to make the holiday “normal.”The

Remind yourself that the holidays are stressful for everyone, and they are rarely the magical gatherings depicted on greeting cards, social media and television. Try to embrace

Set healthy boundaries You don’t have to force yourself to face every holiday event or celebratory tradition. Others might try to convince you to participate, but you don’t have to try to please everyone.

When speaking with others about your wishes not to participate, stay focused on your goal to protect your peace of mind.

Be kind to yourself It’s important to get the rest and nourishment you need and try not to take on more than you can handle. If you need to be alone, then honor that. If you crave the company or affection of others, seek it out, while being mindful of what is best for your well-being.

Offer yourself some grace

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49 holidays can bring a wide range of emotions; you might feel joy, guilt and sadness, all within a few minutes.

Trust that grief is part of healing Grief is the process by which we heal. Experiencing the pain, rather than constantly trying to escape it, can actually help you feel better in the long run. It might be tempting to numb the pain with mood-altering substances, such as alcohol, but that will only prolong the anguish.

Create new traditions

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It’s OK to get creative and do something a little out of the ordinary. You also can alter old traditions to make them fit into your life.

Do something kind for others Performing random acts of kindness can be uplifting for anyone experiencing a loss.

Ask for help Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you are struggling.

Reminding loved ones that you are having a rough time might be enough. You also can reach out for more assistance from support groups or contact a mental-health professional.

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COMMUNITY

United Way, Community Foundation join forces to form COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Fund

Community Foundation of Washington County (CFWC) and United Way of Washington County staff members include, from left, Tim Luipersbeck, (CFWC); Jocelyn Hauer, (UWWC), Heather Guessford, (UWWC), Allison Dillow, (UWWC) and Stacey Crawford, (CFWC).

written by MEG H. PARTINGTON Submitted photos When the effects of the coronavirus reached Washington County, organizations that regularly provide financial, nutritional and housing support to the community immediately turned into command centers for distributing funds, food and protective gear.

“Overnight, our numbers doubled, then tripled, then quadrupled,”Amy Olack, CEO of the Washington County Commission on Aging, said of those needing meal assistance.

Government restrictions on the number of people gathering to prevent the spread of COVID-19 meant the closure of the seven congregate sites operated by the commission on aging, where many seniors gather to dine. And those who received Meals on Wheels still needed their deliveries.

Meanwhile, youths were suffering when schools, recreation centers and places of worship were closed.

“We saw … the kids needed some hope,” said Scott Myers, area director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for Western Maryland and the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.“They needed something good to happen in their life.

They were hurting emotionally, they were hurting spiritually.”

Heather Guessford, president and CEO, United Way of Washington County, prepares to distribute food during a drive-by distribution program.

Countless pleas for aid were heard loud and clear by the Community Foundation of Washington County MD Inc. and the United Way of Washington County.

“We both knew we wanted to help, but we didn’t know where to start,” said Heather Guessford, president and CEO of the United Way, explaining that the organizations have only about four employees each.

Those working with the United Way knew areas most impacted by the pandemic and had what the leader of the community foundation called “boots on the ground” — contact with groups that distribute food and vital supplies.

The foundation, meanwhile, has access to big donors, and is focused on promoting philanthropy and being a diligent steward of funding in the community.

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DOT Foods donated 125,000 pounds of food to our community, which was moved to places of need in one day, efforts that were coordinated

by Heather Guessford, at left, president and CEO, United Way of Washington County and Stacey Crawford, president and CEO, Community Foundation of Washington County.

“She has access to capital” from corporations and sizable philanthropic groups, Guessford said of Stacey Crawford, president and CEO of the Hagerstown-based community foundation.“We have access to causes, people. They’re all equally as important,” she said.“We both had this urge to do something. It was like two worlds swirling together.”

Those worlds merged to create the COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Fund to support community-based organizations in the county. The fund provides economic assistance and access to food and supplies for children, families and

“Overnight, our numbers doubled, then tripled, then quadrupled.”

Amy Olack, CEO, Washington County Commission on Aging, referring to those who needed Covid-related meal assistance

households facing a temporary loss of income. According to the United Way’s website (unitedwaywashcounty.org), the fund also is intended to strengthen the community’s ability to prepare for and respond to health and other emergencies, and to support programs and initiatives that are focused on fighting for health, education, basic needs and financial stability.

The drive to raise money began with the foundation securing $100,000 in about 48 hours - starting April 1 that was to be used as a match for funds contributed by area residents. Then, the community was challenged to raise another $100,000 to “unlock” the matching pool, Crawford said. In a little more than 30 days, that goal was not only reached, but doubled, netting $300,000 when the match was factored in. That does not count the food and personal protective equipment (PPE) contributions that also were immediately doled out throughout the county, she added.

A total of 94 grant requests were received from 65 organizations, and 37 received funding, Crawford said.

The United Way and community foundation became helping hubs, trying to provide support for people desperate for PPE, distilled water, food and money.

“We felt like we were on autopilot,” said Guessford, who took masks, gloves and shoe coverings donated by KIND Therapeutics USA in Hagerstown to agencies and nursing homes.

at home Places 54

Child-care centers couldn’t get enough milk for the children they served, but the United Way was on the case.

“The cavalry has arrived,” Guessford said.

She said DOT Foods donated 125,000 pounds of food, which was moved to places in need in one day. Also rounded up through donations and supply drives were shelf-stable foods, cat litter and cleaning supplies, plus books, puzzles and games to keep people’s brains stimulated during COVID shutdowns.

Some disbursement amounts of note, provided

by Guessford: • 768 gallons of milk donated by Save A Lot in Martinsburg, W.Va. • More than 125,000 pounds of perishable food • More than 1,000 pounds of shelf-stable food • More than 2,000 units of PPE • 10,800 dozen eggs

Keeping seniors fed, engaged Among those who received grants from the COVID-relief fund was the Washington County Commission on Aging. The nonprofit received two grants to support its Meals on Wheels program and one for telework operations, said Bradley Tritsch, chief operating officer.

A total of $7,500 went toward senior nutrition, covering the purchase of 2,380 meals, Tritsch said. Another —for $4,270 —

Allison Dillow, at left, director of marketing and engagement, United Way of Washington County, and Madeline Goldstein, United Way of Washington County volunteer and Youth United member, deliver food through the Meals on Wheels program.

was for supplemental nutrition in the form of 3,801 8-ounce containers of milk- and juice-based beverages, he said, along with six can openers and five microwaves for seniors who needed those to prepare meals. The meals and nutrition supplements were distributed to Meals on Wheels participants.

A grant for $5,115 indirectly supported Meals on Wheels by allowing the commission on aging’s staff to continue working and assisting seniors with accessing the food-delivery program, Tritsch said. Those in need of nutrition services during the pandemic shutdown were referred into Meals on Wheels.

The coronavirus led to a transition in the way Meals on Wheels typically operates. Instead of delivering one hot meal a day, Monday through Friday, Tritsch said the program shifted to biweekly delivery, serving up to 330 seniors, a schedule that will only be used while COVID-19 is still a threat. Each distribution includes one hot meal and 21 to 27 shelf-stable meals, he explained.

The mobile food-distribution program is “so much larger than a meal delivery,” said Olack, emphasizing that the program is a vital source of socialization. For some people, a delivery person is the only visitor they see on a regular basis. With less frequent food drop-offs happening now, calls are made regularly to check in on clients, she said.

Madeline Goldstein, United Way of Washington County volunteer and Youth United member, helps with Blessing Boxes, which were installed in senior living communities for non-perishable food giveaways. These are similar to little libraries that have been placed in various locations in our community.

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Fellowship of Christian Athletes for Western Maryland and the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia hosted a summer camp at Wheaton Park in Hagerstown. The United Way of Washington County and Community Foundation of Washington County COVID-19 emergency assistance fund provided $5,000 toward the sponsorship of the camp. In addition, the United Way of Washington County team volunteered at the camp.

Law-enforcement officers are called for well-being checks if those people don’t answer their phones.

Olack said some didn’t like receiving the calls at first, but now they look forward to the communication.

“For us, it’s really keeping in touch with our clients,” Olack said.“It becomes a part of the new norm.”

The new norm also entailed shortages of shelf-stable foods, particularly in March and April.

“Access was huge, especially in the beginning” of the pandemic, said Olack, who has been the CEO for six years.

Staff members stood in lines to buy the maximum amount of products that stores allowed and used them for seniors’ meals. The commission started placing orders for pickup at Save A Lot, for which grant funds were not used.

The Maryland Food Bank provided what it could, Olack said. And One For Good - a partnership between Healthy Washington County and The Consumer Goods Forum’s Collaboration for Healthier Lives - helped connect the commission on aging with national distributors.

“That has been a huge help to our organization,” she said.

Some organizations and businesses donated truckloads of nonperishable foods, which were given out through the senior center in Hagerstown. When they were not delivering food, commission on aging staff and volunteers were packaging it for distribution, Olack said.

Meanwhile, in-person programs that used to be offered at the sites for seniors have moved to social-media platforms. Olack leads a “living in” series online, during which she has experts on as guests to talk briefly about keeping

moving during COVID restrictions, meditation, nutrition and how to safely go to doctors’ appointments for treatment of chronic conditions.

“Adaptation is the key to what I’ve seen,” Olack said.

“This community has really rallied, and they really do support each other and rise up.”

Nurturing young bodies, spirits The Fellowship of Christian Athletes wanted to protect the physical and emotional health of area youths, so it applied for a grant to continue operating a day camp and provide scholarships for a leadership program.

Myers, who has been the area director of the FCA for 11 years, said his organization received $5,000, close to $4,000 of which went toward operating a camp at Wheaton Park in Hagerstown. Coaches and athletes from the community led sports programs at no cost for children in the neighborhood, many of whom also attend programming at the Boys & Girls Club of Washington County and the Robert W. Johnson Community Center in Hagerstown, he said.

About 60 children attended this summer’s weeklong camp, learning the nuances of cheerleading, and playing basketball, soccer, football, and backyard sports such as gaga ball, Myers said.

The rest of the grant funds are intended for scholarships for a leadership camp that is attended by some of the youths who assist with the Wheaton Park camp.

Those in grades eight through 12 typically gather in the winter at Spooky Nook Sports and The Warehouse Hotel

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Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and United Way volunteers worked at the FCA summer camp at Wheaton Park in Hagerstown.

From left, Stacie Turner, Jocelyn Hauer, Emily Moyers, Qiana Collier, Ruby Afolabi, Allison Dillow.

in Manheim, Pa., where they listen to speakers of note talk about faith and are inspired “to lead for Christ. … We want these kids to be the leaders of tomorrow,” Myers said.“It’s a phenomenal week. It’s a great facility, too.”

When interviewed in September, Myers wasn’t sure if the leadership event would take place in 2020 due to COVID restrictions. If it doesn’t, he plans to save the scholarship funds for the following year.

The pandemic led to the cancellation of some other FCA-organized activities, including a golf scramble that typically brings in $4,000 to $5,000 for the leadership camp scholarships.

“We’re feeling the pinch like everyone else,” Myers said, adding that the grant was a saving grace.

“It was a key piece for us,” Myers said. “That was such a blessing.”

Also off the calendar for 2020 were multisport camps held for more than 15 years at sites like Williamsport High School that are attended by 250 to 300 kids ages 8 to 14, Myers said. An outdoor camp that typically takes place in mid-July at the Izaak Walton League and neighboring Fraternal Order of Police grounds in Hagerstown also was canceled. When it was offered in 2019, 96 youths experienced archery, rifles, canoeing, fishing and other adventures in nature with the help of more than 50 volunteers, he said.

Waiting to give The coronavirus forced the Community Foundation of Washington County to postpone Washington County Gives to Sept. 22 from its original date in May. The 24-hour, online giving promotion allows local nonprofit agencies to raise unrestricted dollars, and receive matching funds and prize money.

In seven years, the fundraiser has generated more than $3 million for the community, according to the foundation’s website (cfwcmd.org).

“It’s more about leveraging the masses” than getting big donations all at once, said Crawford, who is in her second year as president and CEO of the foundation. The minimum donation is $10, but there is no maximum.

In early September, the United Way was still doing some pandemic relief, but was focusing on preparing for the 29th annual Day of Caring set for Sept. 17, Guessford said. That day, hundreds of volunteers typically perform a variety of service projects at local nonprofit organizations and at homes of the elderly and/or disabled and military veterans. The previous year, a record-breaking 1,804 volunteers worked on 146 projects, according to the organization’s website.

Reflecting on the COVID-relief grants, Crawford said the foundation made sure the money was used locally.

“We had promised the community that it would be placed in the hands of the community,” she said.“We feel fairly good … that people were smart with their resources. I think everyone will come out able to serve,” she said of the nonprofits given financial assistance.

— Places.

Want to donate?

To make a donation to the COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Fund, go to unitedwaywashcounty.org/ covid-19-action.

For more information Community Foundation of Washington County MD Inc. cfwcmd.org | 301-745-5210 Western Maryland/Eastern Panhandle Fellowship of Christian Athletes westernmdfca.org | 301-331-9174 United Way of Washington County unitedwaywashcounty.org 301-739-8200

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COMMUNITY

LEADERS H IP WASHINGTON COUNTY

Our strong community, supported by leaders

REFLECTIONS FROM THE CLASS OF 2020 written by CHRISTINA WILLIAMS DIRECTOR OF GRADUATE ENGAGEMENT FOR LEADERSHIP WASHINGTON COUNTY Submitted photos At the beginning of the Leadership Washington County program, the Class of 2020 declared that it was unique.

Little did the members know how unique their experience would be. The pandemic had a significant impact on the program, and they have since deemed themselves the “Longest Class Ever.”

They rose to the challenge and showed up for weekly Zoom happy hours throughout April and May to stay engaged and connected. They held an Imagination Graduation in June on the day they were supposed to have their graduation celebration. They have maintained a strong bond and held a class-only celebration on Oct. 2. On behalf of the board of directors, Tara Sargent and myself, we would like to thank Class 33 for staying the course and finishing strong.

We asked the class members to share some thoughts about their experience and how they plan to give back to the community upon graduation. Here are their answers:

Will Scarborough: Class 33 Opening Reception Sept. 22, 2019, at Wisp Resort, McHenry, Md. “As a member of Class 33 of Leadership Washington County, I plan to take my experience to help better and serve our local community by making a positive impact and shaping the future. I look forward to promoting positive change through forward-thinking and dynamic action to make our community a great place to live, work and play. I am forever grateful for the relationships and friendships I have built with classmates and alumni members.”

– Will Scarborough, vice president, senior business banker, Capital One

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Stacie Turner & Beth Hare: Opening Retreat – Speed Networking Sept. 21, 2019, at Wisp Resort, McHenry, Md. "LWC has connected me and empowered me to be an active member of the community. I am more equipped to ask probing questions to the right parties and wait for those answers. I am a more informed citizen and can now be a more knowledgeable active member of making change in the community in which I live, work and raise my family."

– Stacie Turner, senior business analyst, program development, Fiserv “LWC has been a huge eye-opening experience for me. It has shown me parts of this county that I didn’t know existed and needs in this county I didn’t know existed. I love the camaraderie that was fostered in our group. I love Leadership Washington County and the effect it has on members.

It’s not possible to walk away without being challenged to get out of your comfort zone and use your skills to make a difference in our community.”

– Beth Hare, paralegal to Chester H. Hobbs IV Bodie, Dolina, Hobbs, Friddell and Grenzer, P.C.

Tara Bockstanz & Michael Kipe: Class 33 – Human Services Day Oct. 11, 2019, at Horizon Goodwill “The LWC experience has been life-changing for me!

Our class has a very unique bond as the #coolestclassever!

I never expected to make connections with people that will be lifelong friends. LWC has fostered an appreciation in me for all our county has to offer. I look forward to serving on the LWC board and supporting future participants as they uncover the hidden gems in Washington County.”

– Tara Bockstanz, director of operations, McCollum Hearing Center “As a leader within a human-services organization, I will continue to advocate for people who require assistance and also for the workers who support them. As a community, we need to continue to break down barriers for these individuals and fully support their needs.”

– Michael Kipe, CPA, chief financial officer The Arc of Washington County

Stephanie Hurd & Kelli Cobb: Class 33 Education Day Leadership Washington County Class 33 members heard several speakers present information about transportation in the county and toured the Classic Car & Truck Museum at the Bowman property in Williamsport on Sept. 11 during the group's cultural heritage program day.

Dec. 13, 2019, at Washington County Technical High School “LWC has been an amazing experience. I expected to learn more about the community and opportunities to get

at home Places 60

involved, but the program far exceeded my expectations.

It introduced me to a group of 30+ community-minded leaders, who I’m now honored to call friends. I can’t wait to see what our group accomplishes through our new network of partnerships.”

– Stephanie Hurd, marketing strategist, Innovative Inc. “LWC has been a life-changing experience! Seeing Washington County from so many angles, being provided endless opportunities, learning and growing professionally and personally with so many upstanding individuals and gaining lifelong friends. ... I will be forever grateful for LWC Class 33!”

– Kelli Cobb, CPA, MBA, member of the firm, SEK CPAs and Advisors

Michael Smith: Class 33 State Government Program Day

Jason Malott: Class 33 State Government Program Day Washington County Coalition reception, Jan. 29, at the State House, Annapolis, Md. “The Leadership experience has been all that I had hoped it would be and more. I have made connections and friendships that will last a lifetime. Although I have been active in the community for many years and currently serve as an elected public servant, LWC assisted in broadening my knowledge on the various issues, both positive and challenging, that confront our community. I am now more aware of the many ways that our organizations and leaders work together to help make Washington County the best that we can be. I look forward to giving back to our community in the years to come from this amazing Leadership experience.”

– Jason Malott, Register of Wills, Washington County

Tour of the State House, Jan. 29, Annapolis, Md. “Being a part of Leadership of Washington County, Class 33, has been a wonderful experience. I’ve gained so much knowledge about how our community works. This is something I never really thought about in my everyday life.

Learning about how both small and large businesses function and how government plays a huge role in changes has really opened my eyes. My journey through Leadership will help me continue to educate others about the role everyone plays in building a stronger community.”

– Michael Smith, LCSW-CL Director of Meritus Behavioral Health, Meritus Medical Center

Kelsi Palmer & Samantha Bodnar: Class 33 Chamber of Commerce Business Awards Feb. 26, at The Maryland Theatre “We were told at the beginning of our class time together that we have an opportunity to make this experience exactly what we want it to be. I decided that day I would take every opportunity to get to know all 35 of my classmates on a deeper level. I can honestly say that I have honored my word throughout the course of this year. As a result, I

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61 have not only made important professional connections, but I have made lasting friendships with people who share my passion for driving continued success and impacting change in Washington County.”

– Kelsi Palmer, chief experience officer, Kite & Anchor "Leadership Washington County has been the best experience, and I'm so grateful for the friendships and opportunities that it has brought. This program has given me a greater understanding and appreciation for the community in which I grew up and continue to work. I look forward to finding ways to continue to give back to my community for many years to come."

– Samantha Bodnar, marketing manager, Bowman Group

do when they work together. Volunteering as much as I can is what I plan to continue to do. Where do you start? There is so much a volunteer can do in our county, communities, nonprofit organizations, and the list goes on. Leadership Washington County has opened the doors to so many opportunities, and I’m truly grateful.”

– Christine Bartles, event coordinator, Leiters’ Fine Catering Inc.

J. Eric Rollins & Sarah Burge, Class 33 Imagination Graduation Rebecca Musser and Christine Bartles: Class 33 members at the Washington County Chamber of Commerce BASH. Feb. 20, at Leiters’ Fine Catering, Williamsport, Md. “Leadership Washington County came highly recommended to me by several colleagues in the community. As I near graduation, I can firmly state that my time spent in the program was a great investment! Not only have I met and made strong relationships with many members of the community I may have never otherwise met, I have also been exposed to a vast variety of our community’s content.

I have a better understanding of each gear that makes the machine of our county work. I feel that I will understand challenges that our county faces and the opportunities for our county’s growth better and with deeper comprehension. I hope that with this newfound knowledge, paired with my skill set, my energies can help to propel the county forward.”

– Rebecca Musser, director of community engagement, Fahrney Keedy Senior Living Community “Leadership has been the best learning experience I’ve ever had. College was great, but ‘On the Ground Realization’ has really opened my eyes to what a community can

June 12 at Bowman Farm, Williamsport, Md. “Submitting my application for LWC Class 33 was one of the best decisions of my life. Once interviewed and then accepted into the class, I knew that things would only develop and evolve into something great. Class 33 has been a unique experience since day one! Little did we know we would have a worldwide pandemic that would interrupt our last few months. Thankfully, we have great leaders and great classmates that ensured we stayed connected through these unusual times! LWC will be a lifetime commitment for me! I believe in the future of our county, and it is important that we continue to share this experience with others! #coolestclassever” – J. Eric Rollins, program manager, Mountaineer Recovery Center “Being part of LWC has provided me with experiences to not only learn valuable information to help lead this community in the right direction, but to connect with local leaders and hear the stories of community members. It is amazing to see that Washington County is built with people that truly want to see one another succeed.”

– Sarah Burge, director of grants and donor relations, Community Foundation of Washington County Md. Inc.

— Places

at home Places 62

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COMMUNITY

‘College of the Holy Angels’

Private, liberal arts college planned for Hagerstown in 2021

Ed Schaefer, president of Collegium, works in the college office, which is located in the Walker House, 36 S. Potomac St., Suite 203, in downtown Hagerstown. Submitted photo

written by LISA TEDRICK PREJEAN Ed Schaefer has a vision for a private liberal arts college in downtown Hagerstown, and as he walks through the city’s core, the cadence of what could be seems to resonate from the existing bricks and mortar.

Schaefer’s blueprint for Collegium Sanctorum Angelorum – Latin for College of the Holy Angels – incorporates a classical curriculum embodying faith and reason. The plan is to open in the fall of 2021 with up to 120 students.

While Schaefer orchestrates the progress with choices that are decidedly prudent, one thing is crystal clear.

The steps he takes along this path are guided by his faith.

“Everything we do will be faithful to Catholic teaching,” said Schaefer, who has 35 years of teaching and administration experience in higher education.“Our practices will be Catholic. It will look like a Catholic school, but we’re not legally affiliated with the Catholic church. We are simply a lay apostolate.”

Most of the students who attend Collegium (pronounced kuh·leh·jee·uhm) will come from a home-schooling background.

“The people who are going to come to our school are largely, not exclusively, home-schooled people and people who are part of traditional Catholic communities, people who attend the traditional Latin Mass,” said Schaefer, who has a doctorate in musical arts from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. The college will use resources that are already in place.

“Within one block, you’ve got classes, dining, housing,” Schaefer said, noting that the buildings are closer together than those on most college campuses. Plus, no new structures are planned.

“When there’s no infrastructure cost, it’s easier to stay focused on the mission,” he said.

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65 Collegium origins

Dining for Collegium students will be in The Grand Piano Building, 20 W. Washington St., in Hagerstown. Photo by Lisa Tedrick Prejean

The mission The college will prepare young men and women for a life where faith and reason live in harmony.

"We give them an environment that doesn’t crush their faith. It helps to reinforce it,” Schaefer said.“We give them the tools and help them strengthen their faith so that when they go out on their own, they can deal with the world.

“What’s important to us is their spiritual and intellectual formation,” he said, noting that the curriculum is “pure liberal arts.”

Classes will focus on the works of Plato and Aristotle, church doctrine as articulated by St. Thomas Aquinas, music and art history, logic, rhetoric, natural sciences and Latin.

Collegium will not be competitive in mission or approach to USMH, said Mark C. Halsey, executive director of University System of Maryland at Hagerstown.

“Designed for a unique clientele, Collegium will recruit nationally, resulting in a national student body living, learning and investing time and talent together in downtown Hagerstown,” Halsey said.“It is distinctive not only in Hagerstown and the region, but even nationally.

“USMH is delighted to welcome the Collegium as a downtown Hagerstown neighbor, a partner in local economic development and a colleague in higher education.”

Schaefer has been working on the concept for Collegium since 2014, when he was at the University of Florida. He taught in the school of music and was an associate dean in UF’s College of Fine Arts.

The Collegium plan was coming together nicely. The only thing lacking was a location.

That missing part of the equation was solved when Schaefer returned to Hagerstown last year for his 50th class reunion at St. Maria Goretti High School.

He and his wife, Karen, decided to make the trip a vacation. They visited local sites such as Antietam National Battlefield and talked to former classmates about possible opportunities here.

He shared the Collegium concept with former classmate Blackie Bowen, CEO and chairman of the board of Ewing Oil Co., and asked what he thought.

It was obvious to Bowen that Schaefer has an astute business sense and was serious about pursuing the project for Hagerstown.

“I think it is fantastic that he has decided to do this for Hagerstown,” Bowen said.“He is all in with this program.

He’s doing it because he thinks it’s the right thing to do for this area and for people in general.”

Bowen, in turn, reached out to Andrew Serafini, president of Serafini Financial Group, to add him to the conversation.

Serafini, who has served in the Maryland House of Delegates and the Maryland Senate, was “very, very helpful” in providing guidance on licensing the school in Maryland, Bowen said.

While the school does not yet have a state permit to operate, those plans are progressing, Schaefer said.

“We anticipate we’ll have everything done by the end of the calendar year, by December.”

After talking with business leaders, Schaefer said it became clear that educational entities fit into the long-range economic vision for downtown.

Serafini points to the model that is working in cities such as Pittsburgh.“Its core has been revitalized,” Serafini said, by the addition of “eds and meds.”When cities focus on

at home Places 66

Potential living spaces include apartments in The Aria at Hamilton Plaza, 92 W. Washington St. Photos by Lisa Tedrick Prejean

adding schools and medical facilities to the city core, the combination greatly aids economic progress and stability.

“Educational opportunity is going to drive student population into our core,” Serafini said.“As you get young people on the streets, it revitalizes the community.”

Collegium students will be encouraged to apply their instruction through two avenues – Heavenly Roast Coffee and a corporate work-study program.

Heavenly Roast Coffee The students will facilitate all aspects of the college’s Heavenly Roast Coffee business, including tracking and fulfilling orders and making local deliveries.

Why coffee?

At UF, Schaefer engaged a student incubator group to consider the feasibility of the business.

“They seemed to think it would work, so we pursued

The coffee is produced by a roaster in Florida who agreed to continue working with the college, Schaefer said, shipping freshly roasted coffee overnight to Hagerstown.

“It’s not exactly like roasting our own, but it’s pretty close,” he said.

Corporate work-study program Because employers are looking for skills such as the ability to speak and write clearly, think logically, think creatively, work in teams and solve problems, while also exhibiting a certain self-awareness, the college will offer a corporate work-study program, Schaefer said.

“Those are all domains of liberal arts education,” he said.

“I think where liberal arts fails today is that students, particularly in a really purely liberal arts environment like this, we don’t help them understand the skill sets that they’ve developed and to market those skill sets adequately. Doing work in a local business will help them figure that out. It’s a way for them to understand the skill sets they have. It’s

it,” Schaefer said.“I’ve learned a lot about the retail coffee

a way for them to apply the skill sets in real-life situations.

business since then. It’s pretty intense and pretty competi-

It’s a way to integrate them into the community, to create

tive. Right now, it’s a small business. We’re in the black. We

relationships between the college and the community.

have no debt. We have enough supplies, coffee bags and

“Hopefully, some of them will have this experience and

basic equipment to last us for the next two or three years.

really just fall in love with Hagerstown and decide to stay

Everything right now is cash flow.”

here,” Schaefer said.“That would be ideal.”

— Places

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COME HOME TO CACAPON

for strolling, biking, fishing, golfing and more COMMUNITY written by TRICIA LYNN STRADER At the base of Cacapon Mountain in Berkeley Springs, W.Va., is Cacapon Resort State Park, one of West Virginia’s original state parks. It is named after a Shawnee word meaning “medicine waters,” a reference to the area's mineral waters that have been extolled for their healing powers.

The park was constructed during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps and opened July 1, 1937.

Cacapon Mountain is the highest peak in the eastern portion of the state, at 2,300 feet.

Cacapon is a 6,000-acre park of hills, valleys, large shade trees and woods, rock outcroppings and flowing water. It offers lake activities such as swimming, fishing and boating. There’s also ample opportunity for hiking and biking, horseback riding and golf.

Visitors may stay in vacation cabins or the lodge. The original lodge, now called the Old Inn, was built in 1937. The 12room log structure was West Virginia’s first state park lodge.

The main lodge, built in 1956, has a relaxed setting, complete with a lounge, TV, board games, fireplace and cozy furniture. Downstairs, a recreation room provides hours of entertainment with various games. The lodge has a full-service restaurant.

The golf course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, was built in 1972, and is a popular course for tournaments inside the park’s picturesque valley.

Above: A $30 million addition and renovation is under way at Cacapon Resort State Park. The addition will include 78 new guest rooms.

Below: A stream runs through Cacapon Resort State Park.

Photos by Tricia Lynn Strader

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A Cacapon Resort cabin. Photo by Tricia Lynn Strader

Cabin interior. Submitted photo from Cacapon Resort State Park

Vacation cabins and more than 13,000 square feet of conference facilities were added in the late 1990s. A new and improved lodge is coming soon.

Building on biking

Coming home to Cacapon Every Sunday of Labor Day weekend, the park hosts a free homecoming event, which started about 1995. The first one was meant to attract families to the park on the last big weekend of summer. That mission hasn't changed.

The homecoming theme has always been “Come home to Cacapon. It's your park.”

People gather at the gazebo for live entertainment, door prizes and a silent auction. Proceeds from the auction benefit the Cacapon Resort State Park Foundation’s improvement projects.

The Cacapon Resort State Park Foundation was formed in 1989, and helps with fundraising events. There is a strong connection between park officials, the foundation, local volunteers and those who donate to the park’s upkeep. Local businesses and citizens donate items for the silent auction.

Park Superintendent Scott Fortney has been a park superintendent for 24 years, four of which have been spent at Cacapon. He’s one of 140 employees.

“Homecoming is a way to give back to the community because of their support,” Fortney said.“The foundation has supported the park – from building the nature center, shelters and overlook, to cleaning trails, and volunteering to lead programs and special events. Without the foundation, the park would be limited in the extra projects that we could complete.”

Fortney said Cacapon Resort State Park Foundation members and volunteers have supported and helped with aspects of the new mountain bike trails, a playground in the picnic area and wildflower gardens around the nature center.

In the fall of 2018, Fortney asked Boy Scouts staying at the park on a camporee to help work on the trails as part of their community service. The group of more than 125 boys built a new, nearly one-mile trail for climbing the mountain from Batt Picnic Area and named it Boy Scout Trail.

Mountain bike trails are among many new and exciting things happening at the park. In June 2019, the foundation applied for a $150,000 Recreational Trails Fund Program grant from the West Virginia Department of Transportation to build bike trails at the park for recreation and competitions. The grant required a 30% match, so the foundation

2019 Cacapon Enduro.

Photo by Will Niccolls

at home Places 70

and mountain-biking enthusiasts sought donations and funds from Morgan County.

Mark Hoyle was part of a group that lobbied for mountain-biking trails at Cacapon.

“We have a group of 30 to 40 local mountain bikers in West Virginia and Virginia who have a passion for both the sport and this beautiful area in which we all live,” Hoyle said.“In 2017, a group of us were getting ready to ride the trails and talking about how a big section of the trails we usually rode had been turned into a cross- country course. This effectively cut off our access to the main trails we ride.”

That gave them an idea: Work with staff at Cacapon to create new ones.

“We started seeing more mountain bikers after we built the cross-country trail,” Fortney said.“That left no access for them to some parts of the trails. Some trails have historical value, and we don’t want bikes or horses on them. It’s a growing sport. I knew we’d have to address it at some point and didn’t want to put up a bunch of ‘no’ signs. It happened that Mark and his group came along to volunteer.”

A few trails have been established by volunteers, and competitions have taken place since 2019. In the spring of 2019, the West Virginia Mountain Bike Association held its season-opening Enduro race there. According to the association’s website, the Enduro race is a combination of downhill racing and XC racing. Riders start at timed intervals and have three to four stages of timed runs, mostly downhill.

There might be flats or small uphill portions. Hoyle said the race at Cacapon was the biggest event the WV Enduro Series has ever had.

“We attracted over 125 riders from the area and surrounding states,” he said.“It was a great success and energized the group. We also established the Facebook group Mountain Bikers of the 540 & 304: Northern Shenandoah

2019 Cacapon Enduro.

Photo by Will Niccolls

Valley with members from the whole area. There are now 602 members of this group.”

The sport is an economic boost to any community that hosts an event.

“West Virginia University conducted an economic impact study of the event and found that each rider spent an average of $290 in Morgan County,” Hoyle said.“This does not even cover their trips to preride the trails or visit again.”

“We raised $880 in donations at the race for the foundation,” Fortney said.“The money goes back into maintenance for the trails, like an endowment.”

More trails are being constructed.

“With guidance from Kyle Lawrence from the Harrisonburg (Va.)-based bike club SVBC (Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition), we applied for several grants, and have won,” Hoyle said.“Our first grants were small, yet impactful. We won grants from local Walmarts, were awarded a grant from Gat Creek furniture and were awarded several West Virginia State Park grants. We raised enough money to fund our first trail, a 2.2-mile machine-built trail designed for hosting National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) mountain bike races, and to get more people a place to get into the sport. Our area is extremely rocky and not conducive to beginner riding. This trail is designed to address that need.”

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Capacon Resort Lake and beach. Photo by Tricia Lynn Strader

Fortney said mountain biking is a year-round activity with low maintenance demands, so it yields more tourism dollars for Cacapon, local businesses and the state.

Trails have names like Giddy Up, Start Me Up and Get Down.

“We were awarded a $150,000 Recreational Trails Program grant from the state of West Virginia,” Hoyle said.

“This is a federal highway funds program for building recreational trails. The result of this big win will be the building of the first of many trails from the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) Trail accelerator program Trail Plan. We plan to build what we are calling a ‘signature trail’ that will go from the top of the mountain all the way down to connect into the new beginner trails. This will be a trail people will travel from around the region to ride.”

Fortney said the project could yield 35 miles of mountain-biking trails.

Expanding, renovating the park Work continues to ensure Cacapon endures and thrives for future generations, just like the ones who took hammer and nail more than 75 years ago to build the first pavilions and cabins. A $30 million expansion and renovation project is under way, for which a groundbreaking was held in 2018.

Funding is provided by bonds financed with excess lottery revenue.

The project has been a vision of park and state officials for some time, and it was a long process to get to the construction phase. The plans have been in the works since 2009, with former Govs. Joe Manchin and Earl Ray Tomblin, and current Gov. Jim Justice involved.

Thirty-one cabins have already been remodeled with handmade Gat Creek furniture made in Berkeley Springs at Caperton Furniture Works. The cabins have tankless water heaters; upgraded heating, ventilation and air conditioning; new kitchens and baths; and newly paved paths and private parking areas.

An addition to the existing 66,786-square-foot main lodge, which will be called the North Lodge, includes 78 new guest rooms; a new public dining room; updated kitchen; a new lounge and fitness room; spa; indoor pool for guests; private dining area for guests; and two new conference rooms. The addition was scheduled to be completed

by November.

The spa will offer nail and skin services, as well as massages.

Renovations to the existing main lodge’s 48 guest rooms and conference rooms include new Gat Creek furniture and a retro 1950s theme. Those improvements are expected to be complete in January. At that point, Cacapon Resort State Park will have 120 guest rooms and four king suites.

Plans are also being finalized to upgrade the bathhouse, beach snack bar and golf pro shop. An 18-hole disc-golf course should be completed before the end of the year.

The addition and renovations will result in the need for 45 new employees.

The park, for which there is no entrance fee, is a family, reunion or conference destination, and a place to relax, swim, boat, fish, golf, hike, bike and ride horses. Once all the additions and renovations are complete, it will have even more amenities for guests.

“The great thing about Cacapon is that it has something for everyone, from the more rustic to a new lodge,” Fortney said.

For more information or to make reservations, call 304-258-1022 or go to www.cacaponresort.com.

— Places

Golfers can try their game at the Robert Trent Jones course at Cacapon.

Inset: Berkeley Springs (W.Va.) High School golfers warm up at the driving range before a tournament. Photos by Tricia Lynn Strader

SENIOR LIVING

U O Y & E R A C I D E M S G ALL THIN

Can you believe it? It’s that time of year again, when everyone with traditional Medicare needs to make time to review their 2021 Medicare Part D plan, which helps pay for prescriptions.

Is it still the best plan for you?

Medicare Part D open enrollment is held annually from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. Did you know that looking at this plan annually can potentially save Medicare recipients thousands of dollars?

Think about what $1,000 can do for you or your loved ones.

Would you like help with reviewing your 2021 Medicare Part D plan?

We have great news for you: The Washington County of Commission on Aging offers assistance through one of its Senior Health Insurance Programs.

First, you’ll need a few things: a list of the medications you are currently taking, your new Medicare card and - if you reviewed your plan last year - your username and password. Then you will be ready to go to myMedicare.gov and input the requested information as prompted.

Does navigating the web on your own raise your blood pressure a little bit? Don’t worry, there are several ways that we can assist during open enrollment.

We are offering biweekly virtual workshops at 1 p.m. on Wednesdays through Dec. 2. Classes fill up quickly, so call 301-790-0275 to register. The workshops will teach you how to navigate the plan finder at www.myMedicare.gov to make sure you and/or your loved one is enrolled in the Medicare Part D plan that best fits your budget or situation.

It will also teach you how to compare plans and enroll in the 2021 Medicare Part D plan of choice.

We also will offer appointments for telephone assistance.

Due to COVID-19, we have a limited number of in-person appointments available. For all in-person sessions, please bring your medication list, Medicare card, username and password, along with photo identification.

GETTY IMAGES

written by SUSAN HURD RSVP PROJECT MANAGER GUARDIANSHIP CARE MANAGER AND COMMUNITY EDUCATOR WASHINGTON COUNTY COMMISSION ON AGING INC./AREA AGENCY ON AGING

If you are interested in obtaining help with reviewing your Medicare Part D plan, call us at 301-790-0275.

Do you simply want to learn more about Medicare?

The Commission on Aging staff will walk you through the “Art of Medicare” from 1 to 3 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month. Registration is required at www. eventbrite.com/e/new-to-medicare-workshop-online-tickets-111698984670.

The staff also will help you understand supplemental Medicare policies from 1 to 3 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Registration is required at www.eventbrite. com/e/supplementing-medicare-what-you-need-to-knowtickets-112648671208.

For information, contact us at info@wccoaging.org or call 301-790-0275.

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— Places

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FA M I LY

How to celebrate the holidays during a pandemic

written by SUSAN HURD RSVP PROJECT MANAGER GUARDIANSHIP CARE MANAGER AND COMMUNITY EDUCATOR WASHINGTON COUNTY COMMISSION ON AGING INC./AREA AGENCY ON AGING The holidays are quickly approaching, and many people have questions about social distancing, masks, new traditions, food, finances and high-risk family members.

The recommendations The Washington County Health Department and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend: • Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from those not in your immediate household.

• Wear a clean cloth face mask, which protects others from you.

• Stay home if you are ill.

• Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with hot, soapy water.

• Use hand sanitizer that has an alcohol base of 60% or more.

• Don’t touch your face, eyes, nose or mask with dirty hands.

• Hold gatherings outdoors or in well-ventilated spaces.

• Cough or sneeze in a tissue, or into your elbow or sleeve.

• Frequently clean and disinfect high-touch areas such as handles, door knobs and light switches.

The planning After a family determines whether to gather, the planning begins. Every successful get-together starts with preparation.

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77 Here are some things to consider if your family plans to celebrate in person: • How many family members or friends are you planning to host?

• Is there enough space for all your family?

• Is it going to be a formal or casual gathering?

• What will be on the menu?

• Are you pulling out the fine china or will you use paper plates?

• What is your family expecting of you?

Will everyone lend a hand and do their part or will the host make it all happen?

• How much time will it take for you to prepare and set up? Will the host have a few extra hands to help with prep and setup?

• Are you taking precautions because of the pandemic? If so, plan to communicate this to your family in advance.

• Are there any other family traditions that you plan to incorporate?

The meal After all that forethought, if it has been determined that you want to continue traditions and make them pandemic-friendly, it’s time to coordinate the meal.

KEEP IT FLOWING

• Consider having the meal catered and served to each family member. Keeping budgets in mind, ask each person to pay a certain amount so nobody has to miss out on socializing during the meal.

• Or, host a potluck and have a family volunteer serve everyone to prevent numerous hands touching utensils.

• Have extra bottles of hand sanitizer that has an alcohol base of 60% or more available for guests to frequently sanitize their hands.

• Add extra tables, and utilize multiple levels of a house, if possible, and space – such as a heated garage – to allow social distancing. Encourage households to share the same table.

The traditions (old and new) • Play games that allow social distancing, such as bingo, charades or "Family Feud.”

• Instead of just an ugly sweater contest, have an ugly mask contest, too.

Do you want to get together, but this sounds like too much work? Or are you concerned that you don’t have enough space?

Your family and loved ones could do a virtual gathering this year. That is always the safest way to prevent the spread of illnesses and enable everyone to get together.

I wish everyone a happy, healthy holiday season!

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FA M I LY

Shopping for a preschooler?

GETTY

Select fun, educational toys

written by BRITTANY WEDD EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DISCOVERY STATION AT HAGERSTOWN INC. Does the holiday season make you come unwrapped?

If you're struggling to find that perfect gift for the preschoolers in your life, I have you covered. The best part? The items I'm recommending are fun and educational, without breaking the bank.

When parents ask me about toys for their preschoolers, I tell them to focus on ones that highlight skill development, foster imagination and help children explore the world around them.

With that said, I am a big supporter of tangram toys. If you incorporate them during early childhood, your child will have a leg up on developing essential skills like shape recognition and spatial awareness, while allowing their creativity to blossom. The Magnetic Wooden Tangram Set by HDW Toys is my favorite, and it only costs $10. The vibrant colors of the blocks are attractive to children, and the set comes with a fun puzzle book that will help them tap into their imaginations. The set is durable and makes a great stocking stuffer.

Another favorite of mine is the Melissa & Doug Giddy Buggy Binoculars and Magnifier Set. Each set comes with a colorful pair of binoculars and a flower- or snake-shaped magnifying glass. This item is perfect for little explorers, and it sells for about $10. Binoculars are a great toy to foster

This book is great to pair with other dinosaur or space-themed gifts this holiday season. Your child will love learning about the adventures that Danny and Dino get into! Submitted by Brittany Wedd

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79

This robot is loads of fun and kids will spend hours playing with him!

Submitted by Brittany Wedd

observation skills. Bring them on a family hike or a trip to the park, or use them indoors. Children are bound to have a good time discovering the world around them with these.

Your children don't have to be rocket scientists to enjoy countless adventures in early space science with the Leap and Launch Rocket by Learning Resources. This stomp rocket toy is available for $39.99, and helps children build gross motor skills and learn about gravity. If you want to win big this holiday season, you can easily pair this toy with a book about space like “The Dinosaur That Pooped a Planet” by Dougie Poynter and Tom Fletcher. These outof-this-world gifts are guaranteed to bring hours of laughter to the kiddos in your life.

If you're looking for tech gifts, the Botley Coding Robot is a must-have. This next-generation robot retails for around $60 and introduces children to block-based coding.

We use this robot for preschool programs at Discovery Station because it helps to reinforce directional learning (i.e. move forward, backward, left and right). Botley Robot kits also include fun obstacles and grids, allowing the play to continue as children get older. Learning Resources provides free tips on its website to extend the fun and learning at home. You can't go wrong with Botley.

If gifts of experience are what you're seeking, I recommend Discovery Station's family membership pass. It costs $80, and benefits include full-year free admission to Discovery Station, discounted birthday parties, 10% off gift shop purchases, complimentary Saturday STEAM programs and free admission to 380 participating museums outside of Hagerstown. It is an excellent gift for families, and it's kid-approved.

Other toys that make great gifts are KEVA blocks, ZOOBMobiles, washable dot markers, any form of dramatic play costuming, flannel boards, and sensory and fidget toys.

Learning Resources and Lakeshore Learning are retailers with a variety of options.

I made this gift for my son one holiday and he spent months playing with it. It just goes to show that you don't need to spend lots of money to make your child happy! Just put love and imagination into your gift.

Submitted by Jessica Castle

If money is tight or you want to make homemade gifts this year, you can easily recycle old toys, boxes, paper products, plastics and other items, and build a toy from scratch.

We’ll be posting homemade toy ideas on Discovery Station’s website during the holiday season.

Remember, the best gifts are ones that come from the heart.

— Places

GETTY

FA M I LY

A book can be a thoughtful gift for any occasion and offers the opportunity to discuss ideas together. Submitted photo.

CURL UP WITH A GREAT BOOK written by SARAH NADEAU COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS WASHINGTON COUNTY FREE LIBRARY As the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, nothing is quite as comforting as curling up with a blanket, warm drink and great book. One of the best things about reading is that the wonderful feeling you experience when you finish that great book can be shared with loved ones. A book can be a thoughtful gift for any occasion and offers the opportunity to discuss ideas together. Sharing picture books at bedtime while using silly voices can create wonderful wintertime memories.

Shared stories teach us and bring us closer together.

These are a few of the many books you can borrow from the library to enjoy this winter and share with the important people in your life:

Children The 12 Days of Christmas by Greg Pizzoli – Elephant is excited to get so many gifts, but his dad doesn’t know what they are going to do with three French hens or 10 lords-aleaping! This book is a fun take on the classic “Twelve Days of Christmas” carol.

Hanukkah Haiku by Harriet Ziefert – Ziefert has vivid memories of lighting the Hanukkah candles as a child. This book features vibrant artwork and a simple haiku poem for each candle lit on the menorah.

Holiday

2020

81 Teens Together at Midnight by Jennifer Castle – This is a romantic tale about human connection set in a vibrant city.

Kendall and Max are in NYC for the holidays and accept a dare to do meaningful acts of kindness for strangers. The challenge pulls the two teens closer together as the clock counts down to New Year’s Eve. The Afterlife of Holly Chase by Cynthia Hand – One Christmas Eve, Holly was visited by three ghosts who showed her how selfish she had become. They tried to convince her to mend her ways. She never did. Now, she's stuck working for the top-secret company Project Scrooge as the latest Ghost of Christmas Past. This story is a fun new spin on the Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol.

In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren – The author of The Unhoneymooners returns with this funny and romantic holiday tale. Maelyn Jones is living with her parents, hates her job and just made a romantic error of epic proportions.

Mae throws out what she thinks is a simple plea to the universe: Show me what will make me happy. Now, she’s in a strange time loop and must figure out how to break free, and find true love under the mistletoe along the way.

Enjoy countless books, movies, databases and so much more all year for free with your library card.

— Places

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Involve four-legged friends in festivities written by JENNIFER DOLAN DOCTOR OF VETERINARY MEDICINE CUMBERLAND VALLEY VETERINARY CLINIC The holidays are quickly approaching, so it’s a busy time of year. Amid all the hustle and bustle, don’t forget to include your furry family members in holiday activities.

Here are some ideas to keep your pets involved in the festivities: • Include pets in any outdoor activity you have planned, such as walks to admire neighborhood decorations and lights; hikes in the snow; attending parades; caroling; or going to pick out a live tree. Make sure your pet is appropriately dressed – a sweater or coat, if needed, and booties, if appropriate, to protect from ice or salt. There are small animal carriers that also act as backpacks so cats or small dogs can accompany their owners on holiday outings.

• Making gourmet treats and hosting a Christmas pet party are wonderful ways to get friends and their pets together. Create handmade holiday-themed dog or cat treats and have a pet treat “cookie” exchange. The party can include a group walk or dog-park outing for the canines, and, for the felines, laser-pointer chasing is always a hit. Break out the catnip for a kitty holiday party.

• Include your furry family members in all your holiday traditions. Gift giving isn’t just for humans – put your pets on Santa’s list, as well. Hang stockings on the mantel and stuff them with gourmet treats and toys. Many facilities that offer Santa pictures have special times or days set aside for pet pictures with the jolly old elf.

Include your pets in your family Christmas cards.

• It is always nice to think about ways to give back to the community. Donate to a shelter or animal rescue in your pet’s name. Find an organization hosting pet pictures with Santa as a fundraiser and participate. Many organizations host holiday 5K walk/runs that allow pets to accompany their owners. These have a dual benefit: You are donating to the community and getting some exercise.

The holidays can be overwhelming to us, as well as our pets. Don’t forget to provide a quiet place where your pets can relax if a party or guests provide too much stimulation.

Signs of stress in dogs include pacing or shaking, whining or barking, excessive yawning and changes in body posture.

Cats might avoid their litter boxes and eliminate in inappropriate areas. They also might hide.

With this advice in mind, get ready for the holidays with your furry family members and have fun!

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Holiday

2020

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HOME TRENDS

Cozy nostalgia: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Holiday trends that make the most of what we have at home

written by SHAWN MUMMA AND SARAH REED LA ROUGE DESIGN TEAM Photos by JLM Photoshoots The last six months have presented a unique set of global and national challenges, changing the way we live day-today. We miss gathering our family and friends for special meals or grabbing a drink at the local pub with a neighbor.

Toss in a hybrid of online and home-school classes, with a dash of shorter days at the end of Daylight Saving Time on Nov. 1, and we have a recipe for crankiness.

I think we can all agree we are ready for some holiday cheer. I’m guessing we’ll all be spending more time at home this holiday season, so why not take the opportunity to make it as cozy as possible?

With a great nod to bygone traditions of Christmases past, cozy nostalgia is by far the most popular trend for the 2020 holiday season, which happens to be our favorite.

Trending colors Red and green have always dominated traditional Christmas designs, and this year is no different. You’ll see a bit more of a vintage/modern vibe with deep, rich, velvety reds and greens. Also be on the lookout for a forest vibe with piney greens and browns, and a softer, more updated look with reds and pale pinks.

Consider using a wreath as a table centerpiece with live greens and fresh citrus fruit.

Trees and greens We are seeing more artificial trees on the market, and flocking – a process to add artificial snow to branches – is popular again this year, evoking a winter wonderland scene. Think outside the box and bypass a traditional tree.

Use a large branch, triangular/pyramid-shaped boxes or mirrored globes. Have fun and use your imagination.

We’re also seeing live greens utilized in unique ways as accents on festive and crafty gift wrap (for example, a miniature pine branch with a few ribbons), and on dining tables as striking and fresh centerpieces. A personal favorite combo is glossy magnolia leaves with bright, fresh lemons.

Wreaths What says happy holidays and Merry Christmas more than a wreath on your front door? There are other ways to incorporate one in your home. Hang a wreath on a mirror or use one as a table centerpiece with live greens and fresh citrus fruit.

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85

Full Tilt: An Evening of Lifestyle

by Design planned for Nov. 19

Mulled cider is a favorite holiday tradition in many homes.

Traditions There is a huge draw to reinvigorate holiday traditions – old and new. Stockings hung on the fireplace mantel and Advent calendars are making huge comebacks. A favorite tradition is the mulled cider Sarah’s mom makes. She simmers on the stove 1 quart of local apple cider with a cinnamon stick, a clove and one allspice berry (multiply for a crowd). It tastes like Christmas and makes the house smell divine.

If you want to have a crisp, refreshing adult beverage, consider the Stone Fence: Mix 2 ounces of your favorite bourbon with apple cider over ice. Garnish with a thin slice of apple.

Accessories To fluff up the cozy feeling, remember the small things, such as big, cozy blankets in fur or soft, thick yarn, candles and warm, twinkling Christmas lights. Don’t forget the scents. Think of the nostalgic scents of the past, such as pine, cinnamon, freshly baked pies. All these small things make a big difference.

As the tennis pro Arthur Ashe once wrote: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”

View your holiday decorating that way and you can’t go wrong.

We wish all of you a happy holiday and blessed new year.

— Places

What happens when three seemingly different women meet and just click?

Sometimes magic.

Shawn Mumma, Sarah Reed and Michelle Donahue decided to bring a little bit of light into this crazy year by creating a celebration of community and sisterhood at Full Tilt: An Evening Shawn Mumma is owner of of Lifestyle by Design.

La Rouge Home & Design.

“We know firsthand how powerful connection is and how immediate it can be,” Donahue said. “It’s so important to have people around you who just get it. And sometimes they are new friends.

“We wanted to provide a space for that to happen for other women, in a beautiful place with amazing food and laughter. God knows we could all use some joy. It has been a year.”

Sarah Reed is a health Full Tilt: An Evening of Lifestyle by and life coach with Design will be Thursday, Nov. 19, from Excelevate Academy.

6 to 9 p.m. at La Rouge Home & Design, 19761 Leitersburg Pike in Hagerstown.

In addition to eating, drinking and making merry, the evening will include presentations by Mumma, Reed and Donahue as well as Karen Coyne of Raymond James.

“As women, we are often brought up to believe that we should be putting Michelle Donahue is owner ourselves last, and we want to start of Massage Envy and the flipping that script,” Donahue said.

InsideOut brand.

“We are invested in inspiring women to create their own personal magic through whatever avenue speaks to them. So for this first event, we are focused on the impact of interior spaces, a healthy mind and body, fashion and finance.

And we’re excited to share a little bit of what we know.

“We won’t be talking all night,” Donahue laughed. “We want people to connect to each other, not feel like we’re holding them hostage at a three-hour TED Talk.”

In-person seating is limited.

Attendees will be asked to wear masks and practice social distancing.

All proceeds will benefit local nonprofits who are changing our world for the better.

Karen Coyne, Raymond For information, call La Rouge at James financial adviser, will 240-818-7969 or Massage Envy be a guest speaker at the Full Tilt event.

Hagerstown at 240-513-6981.

at home Places 86

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HOME TRENDS

The secrets to

cold weather entertaining Upon the arrival of cold weather, people tend to move indoors and limit their time spent in the elements. For those who live in places where there are restrictions placed on indoor entertaining and gatherings, it may be challenging to find ways to spend time safely together as temperatures drop.

The COVID-19 virus as well as other respiratory viruses are spread from person to person through respiratory droplets released into the air while coughing, talking or sneezing, according to the Mayo Clinic. A person is more likely to inhale these droplets from an infected person while indoors, especially when they're in close contact with that person. When outdoors, there is a lower risk of contraction.

Outdoor entertaining in winter may be challenging, especially in regard to keeping everyone warm. The following are some solutions that can help people stay warm and have fun outside.

Invest in fire pits Fire pits are an affordable way to heat a patio or another outdoor area. They can be great places for friends and family to gather around and enjoy special occasions.

They're readily available from garden centers and home improvement retailers at a variety of price points.

Permanent fire pits can be built by a homeowner or professionally built by masonry experts.

Install an outdoor fireplace A step up from a fire pit, outdoor fireplaces not only add warmth, but also improve the ambiance and value of an

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courtesy of METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

outdoor entertaining area. Set up outdoor furniture right next to an outdoor fireplace and you have a cozy alternative living room where everyone can gather.

Explore outdoor heating systems Few things are more effective at warming up outdoor entertaining areas than patio heaters and infrared heaters.

These devices are far more effective than average fire pits or fireplaces. One or two heaters will be enough to keep a large entertaining area warm.

Keep cozy options available Guests should dress warmly, but having a basket of throw blankets, scarves and parkas available for extra warmth while mingling is helpful. Use outdoor rugs to insulate from the cold from the ground up.

Serve hearty foods and beverages Stews, chilis, soups, and other hot foods can help guests warm themselves up from the inside out. Warmed cider, hot chocolate and mulled wines also can be served to help people stay warm.

Get moving Incorporate activities that encourage guests to move around and stay warm. Beanbag tosses, dancing and even sports like flag football can keep guests' blood flowing.

Entertaining outdoors doesn't have to stop when the weather cools. Find ways to stay comfortable and safe when entertaining outside in the cold.

— Places

Holiday

2020

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HOME TRENDS

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Listing your home during the holidays written by JENNIFER BLAKE REALTOR, LICENSED IN MD. AND PA. SULLIVAN SELECT LLC The holidays (November through January) are not necessarily the best time to list; however, sometimes it cannot be avoided.

There are some advantages to listing during this time – mainly, there might not be a lot of competition. If your house is show-ready and priced right, you might find this to be a lucrative time to list.

There are several tips you should follow to make your sale a success.

• First, find an agent who will list and market your home well. That would include professional pictures, as well as advice for staging, pricing correctly and prepping your home for sale. Also, you need an agent who won’t bail on you over the holidays and will be available to work with other agents to get your home sold.

• It starts getting cold this time of year. Prepare your home to be cozy, warm and inviting to buyers. If you like to decorate for the holidays, feel free to, but don't go overboard. Festive is great, but less is more. Too many decorations could make the rooms appear smaller or can be a distraction. Play soft classical or holiday music, and bake and offer cookies right before the showing to fill your home with a fantastic scent. When you encourage buyers to spend more time in your home, you also give them more time to admire its best features.

• Price your home right. This step takes an agent with experience. Rather than gradually making small price reductions,

many real estate agents advise sellers to price their homes competitively before placing them on the market.

• Focus on curb appeal. Because it’s autumn and winter is near, the trees start to lose their leaves, so maintaining the exterior of your home becomes even more important. Bare trees will reveal any exterior imperfections.

Make sure your gutters are clean, and free of leaves and debris. Clear your walkway when it snows or becomes covered with fallen, scattered leaves.

• Create a welcoming outdoor space that will appeal to your buyers and guests.

• Since everyone is busy during the holidays, your online pictures are the best way to market your home. Make sure your agent uses a professional photographer. Great photos will motivate potential buyers to set up a showing; bad pictures might discourage that. A video of your home is a good option to appeal to buyers, as well.

• Open houses during the holidays can be a fun and festive way to kick off your listing. Though not as common as in the past, an open house with a little holiday music, some treats and tasteful decor could be a real selling point for buyers.

During this time, don't forget to make time to enjoy such a joyous season. You only have one life to live. Even though it might be stressful, it’s still time that you have been given.

Make the most of it!

— Places

For more information, contact Jennifer Blake, Sullivan Select LLC, 13146 Pennsylvania Ave., Hagerstown.

Office phone: 301-745-5500 | Cell: 410-746-4420

THANK YOU FOR VOTING!

#1 Real Estate Agent Cynthia Moler Sullivan WHEN IT COMES TO REAL ESTATE, SELECT THE BEST!

Cynthia Moler Sullivan, Assoc. Broker, ABR, GRI Top 10 Real Estate Agents In Maryland 2015-2019 As Published By American Institute of Real Estate Professionals

301-988-5115 • 301-745-5500 cynthia@sullivanselectllc.com

Big or Small Cynthia sells them all!

Give us a Call!

13201FOUNTAINHEADRD,HAGERSTOWNMD One of Hagerstown’s finest properties is now available. Stately colonial with one of thelargestandmostprivatelotsinFountainhead.Solidfieldstoneconstructionwith over13,705squareftoflivingspace,thissevenbedroom,6bath,5halfbathmansion with a five car garage has every bell and whistle imaginable including a tennis/pickle ball court. Master kitchen opens to a private covered porch with state of the art outdoor kitchen. Quality is abundant throughout including a sprinkler system with itsowndedicatedwell,backuppowergenerator,and2additionalkitchens.Thisisa rare opportunity. Qualified buyers only. Shown by appointment.

MDWA173756 $1,180,000

5055 SMITH RD, ROHRERSVILLE MD Builder’s own masterpiece on a 3.37 acre lot with lovely views from every window! Two story foyer with beveled glass door. Coffered ceiling & library with French doors. Gourmet kitchen with cherry cabinets and granite counters plus stainless appliances Huge morning room with cathedral ceilings. Luxurious master suite with master bath; dual walk in closets and whirlpool tub. Privacy abounds !.

MDWA174974 $589,900

20420 TROUT DRIVE, HAGERSTOWN MD Designer custom built home in sought after Pemberton Estates. Created by South MountainBuilderswhichissecondtononeinqualityandattentiontodetails.Sitting high atop a 1.14 acre lot, with views of the mountains, this 5 bedroom 3 1/2 baths beauty has an open floor plan. Main floor master with 9’ ceilings, custom master shower, large gourmet kitchen with granite countertops and adjoining morning room which opens to light and airy family room with fireplace. Great commuter location, minutes from I-70 and 81 and close to Beaver Creek Country Club. This is a must see, call for your appointment today.

MDWA173204 $629,900

10974 SASSAN LANE, HAGERSTOWN MD 21742 Motivated seller!!! Fabulous all brick colonial with 6 bedrooms 4 1/2 baths and a 3 car garage. Hardwood flooring, chair rail molding, crown molding, tray ceilings with lighting are just a few of the upgrades this exquisite home has to offer. Eat in Kitchen with granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances, island with seating area opens to family room with gas fireplace. Large master bedroom suite includes adjoining nursery and or sitting/dressing room. Lower level has bedroom and full bath with family/rec room area and an additional room that could be used as office or 7th bedroom. Make your appointment today!

MDWA174160 $534,900

16944SHINHAMRD,HAGERSTOWNMD21740 Opportunity knocks. Quaint all brick rancher on nearly an acre lot on waterfront! 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, new roof, brand new carpeting and vinyl flooring. New landscape package with plenty of room to add a garage. Owner says sell! Please remove your shoes before entering.

MDWA175150 $239,000

11729 ANTHONY HWY, WAYNESBORO PA Newly renovated, impressive, 6,000+ sq. ft. showroom barn with three levels, a large parking lot and 4 sheds with electric! New Plumbing & Electric, Top of the line Kitchen, Wet bar and 3 Baths all custom designed to impress! One level could be used as an apartment! Room to expand on this .45 acre lot, with the option to possibly purchase an adjoining 1/2 acre. Property is currently used as a thriving retail/home decor/vintage business, with over 70 vendors and 10k followers on Facebook! Voted the “Best of the Best Gift Shop!” Business sold separately- or could be a package deal- Contact listing agent for more details. One of a kind opportunity- Great location PAFL171816 $449,900

13042 HAWKINS CIRCLE, HAGERSTOWN MD Gorgeous Custom Home in Cortland Villas!

Everything top of the line! Open flr. pln, cathedral ceilings, 2 gas fireplaces! Cherry Hess cabinets, oak hardwood flrs & ceramic w/ diagonal angle! Elaborate Kitchen boasts silestone counters & gourmet chef appliances (SS) w/ plenty of cabinet space, Oversized sunroom off kitchen! Sep. dining room! 3 bdrms, 2.5 baths! Private deck, Professional landscaping!

MDWA171782 $369,900

6740 SAINT ANNES DRIVE, FAYETTEVILLE PA A Must See! Check out “The Timbers of Fayettevil e” on FB! Cut your operating costs dramatically with this Timberframe design. A 5 zoned radiant floor allows you to heat only the areas you occupy. The savings can be 50% or more. Hot water circulation provides instant hot water with a 30% savings in the water bil . A solar array provides solar rebates that offset the Spring and Summer electricity bil s. While neighbors are replacing their shingledroofsfor$25,000ormoretheStandingSeammetalroof wil providedecadesof reliabilitywithno replacementcosts.WorkfromhomewithandOfficeonthesecondlevelwithgorgeousviewsof themountains and golf course (Cat 5 Cable link on first floor)! This design won the Home of the Year award at the Franklin CountyBuildersShowtheyearit wasbuilt.Itwasfeaturedin theLuxuryLivingmagazineSPACESforitsInterior Design. Combine all this with a golf course location and mountain and farmland views in a peaceful setting.

PAF171586 $684,000

10603 AVONLEA HILLS CT, HAGERSTOWN MD Exquisite custom designed all brick colonial on 10.43 acres. Over 10,000 sqft of fabulous living space. Uniquely created floor plan offer grand two story entrance & high ceiling featuring Palladium windows, gourmet kitchen with upgraded stainless steel appliances & imported granite countertops and flooring. Glorious natural light accents the astonishing maple hardwood flooring & cabinetry and unique characteristics throughout. Secluded yet so close to everything, This beauty has an open floor plan & 3 finished levels. Upgraded security & sound system throughout. Full walkout finished basement. 5 bedrooms 4 1/2 baths.

Nothing like it in Washington County. This gem won’t last! $859,900

800-802 W. FRANKLIN STREET, HAGERSTOWN MD 8 MAPLE STREET, FUNKSTOWN MD Motivated seller! Commercial retail space in Great investment opportunity, zoned fantastic location on corner w high traffic count: good heavy traffic flow on Rt. 40. Exposure commercial, large duplex with 2 three bedroom your business: Great location for numerous units. Large side lot with off street parking in the opportunities for business or office. Lots of parking: potential for 30+ cars. Zoning TR back. Two units each rented for $750 a month. -- Buyer to determine if zoning will allow for buyers business. Used to be a carriage house for MDWA164746 $158,000 orig farm. Rental option. Put your business here!

1003978453 $119,900

240 FREDERICK STREET, HAGERSTOWN MD Rare opportunity to own this one owner, commercial property ideal for your Medical, Professional, and Service business and more!

Private parking lot in the front and additional parking in the rear. Featuring a large foyer/ waiting area, 4 exam/treatment rooms, an office and 1.5 bathrooms. Great location! Buy for less than renting! Schedule your private tour today!

MDWA174582 $175,000

Sullivan Select team: Christina Sherman (MD), Cynthia Moler Sullivan, Associate Broker (MD & PA), Paul C. Sullivan, Broker (MD & PA), Tracey Rotz (MD, PA & WV), Tim Rotz (MD), Janet Thompson (MD & PA), Susan Creel (MD & PA), Mary Beth Herrera (MD & PA), Leesa Arnold (MD & PA), and Stephanie Stamper (MD & PA).

at home Places 92

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

Inventory is still low and demand is high. The market is HOT! Call me to get your house SOLD in record time!

Wishing you a blessed holiday season. I look forward to assisting you with all your real estate needs. Providing friendly, professional service since 1990!

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

301-667-8673

lwalker@glockergroup.com

JASON HOSE, GRI Serving Maryland, Pennsylvania & West Virginia

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

1830 Dual Highway, Hagerstown, MD, 21740

Have a Happy Holiday Season and a Merry Christmas!

14624 National Pike, Clear Spring, MD

Reach us at 301-766-7161 mttaborbuilders.com

Integrity, Service, Commitment, your trust is the heart of our business!

View all our fine properties at www.realestatetoday.pro

REAL ESTATE TODAY

®

Nearly 40 years experience.

No one knows the market like we do!

Cathy Wantz 28 years Licensed in MD

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

www.realestatetoday.pro

Toby Wantz, GRI 12 years Licensed in MD and PA

Let us help you find a home for the holidays

Kim Bowen

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Tricia Churchey

Wes Churchey

Sharon Cooper

Kimberly Copenhaver

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Matt Curtis

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Mike Deming

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Caitlin Marier

Frannie Parks

Rah Powell

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Brenda L Smith

Gary Smith

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Susan Valentine

Elizabeth Williams

Josh Woods

301-745-1620 • BHHSbowen.com 11949 Robinwood Drive, Hagerstown, MD

Taylor Bowen

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

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

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WEST VIRGINIA The good life for less.

Snyder Bailey & Associates, INC.

304-267-1050

CAROLYN SNYDER, BROKER

www.SnyderBailey.com

“I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.” Naturalist John Burroughs SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV 11 ACRES

LINDEN SPRINGS, SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV CIRCA 1789 AN HISTORIC 11 ACRE Farmette, Jefferson County Landmark on the National Historic Register. Features Include 4 springs, pond, stream, A WONDERFUL RESTORED LARGE 2 STORY STONE COLONIAL HOME. Original wide plank hardwood floors throught out. Five fireplaces. Kitchen with center island and large stone fireplace. The double two level porches provide a wonderful, peaceful area to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Property is surrounded by mature trees. Woods and fields. Included is a SEPARATE 1990 BUILDING WITH TWO LARGE HIGHLY ATTRACTIVE APARTMENTS. There are also a 5000 Sq.Ft. MORTON Building, fenced acres, walk-in shed, a detached garage and workshop, buildings for chicken and sheep.

You can grow your own food and stay at home. This graceful, beautiful property has a restorative effect in a troubled work. It speaks of another time of graceful living and time to enjoy family and friends. Located near downtown Shepherdstown, a University town, 3 miles from the MARC Commuter train Station to DC, commuting distance to DC and Baltimore, close to the Potomac River, the C&O Canal and the Appalachian Trail. The area provides wonderful cultural and outdoor activities. Unrestricted, possible AIR B&B. Highly appealing property. $899,000 | WVJF140156

HEDGESVILLE, WV 11.83 ACRES

Hedgesville, WV - 11 Acre Builder’s Ranch Home - Pond Additional Building Sites. Tucked away in a private, peaceful natural setting surrounded by mature trees and plantings.

This three bedroom ranch style builder’s home is beautifully maintained and executed.

The sun room, full of light provides a view to the back yard and woods where there are all kinds of wild life (my seller said 7 bucks at one time in the back yard last week). The basement is partially finished with a large family room, work shop and bath. A beautiful, comforting, soothing setting, particularly in these days. There is a spring fed pond and stream on the property. The 11 acres provides for additional home sites overlooking the pond or in other areas. The property is located approximately 1/4 mile from the Potomac River (walking distance) and 1 mile from a state boat launch. A SPORTSMAN’S PARADISE. Apart and yet convenient. Located on Cherry Run Road it is easy access to Route 9 and I-81, and also to the MARC Commuter Train to DC in Martinsburg. $560,000 | WVBE181068

Carolyn Snyder, Broker O: 304-267-1050 C: 304-283-1537 www.SnyderBailey.com

SNYDER BAILEY & ASSOCIATES The Best People, The Best Properties For 30 Years

Stunning Potomac Riverfront Manor Home

“I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.”

Naturalist John Burroughs “Belvedere on the Potomac” Falling Waters, WV

Historic Potomac Waterfront Home Circa 1790 A fabulous 180 degree view of the Potomac River will greet you every time you look out the window or step on the lovely front deck of this manor type home. Water frontage is 180 feet, there is a boat ramp. The home is fully renovated; fully furnished. Move in turn key ready.

Sited on 2.3 private acres on a hillside above the river. It looks across the river and is buffered by Federal Land, the C&O Canal.

Peaceful old colonade of hugh trees at one end of the property. The home is open and elegant with second floor balconies from two of the 3/4 bedrooms. There are two kitchens, the main kitchen is huge with all top drawer stainless steel appliances, lots of granite counters and eating island. The second kitchen/LR combo when combined with two upstairs rooms and baths could be used as a guest suite. Three fireplaces complement the interior. Detached workshop could be artists studio or “SANITY SHED”. Easy access to I-81, close to I-81 I-70 interchange, near Martinsburg MARC Commuter train Rare opportunity.

WVBE178832 $975,000

VIEW TOUR: www.SnyderBailey.com SNYDER BAILEY & ASSOCIATES, INC. www.SnyderBailey.com

The Best People, The Best Properties, For 30 Years

304-267-1050

Carolyn Snyder, Broker

Book Your Spot Today!

Outpatient Rehabilitation State of the Art Facility offering: • Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapies • Call for insurance verification or more information now!

For more information call Heather Stevens 301-671-5040 • hstevens@fkhv.org 8507 Mapleville Road, Boonsboro, Maryland 21713 • www.fkhv.org Licensed by the State of Maryland, Department of Health, Health Care Quality, #216712