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Travel the World Without Leaving Home
Written by Lauren Buechmann
Asthe seasons turn and the days invite us to slow down, there’s something magical about settling into a cozy chair, a warm drink in hand, and letting a good story carry us somewhere new. Travel doesn’t always require a packed suitcase—sometimes, the best journeys begin right at the library.
For those who dream of sweeping landscapes and remarkable adventures, the DVD series Epic Train Journeys from Above is a perfect ticket. This six-part program takes you across the globe’s most extraordinary railway routes, soaring above breathtaking scenery and diving into the stories of the people who keep these powerful engines running. From rugged mountain passes to bustling city stations, you’ll discover not only incredible feats of engineering but also the communities that thrive alongside the rails. It’s armchair travel at its finest.
But your journey doesn’t have to stop there. If the series sparks curiosity, the library offers many ways to explore the world—and yourself—further:
Learn a language with Mango Languagesimagine greeting fellow passengers in Italian, ordering lunch in Japanese on your next trip, or simply communicating more clearly within your community. Mango Languages makes it simple to pick up useful phrases and cultural context, whether you’re preparing for travel or just broad-
ening your horizons, and it’s free with a library card, which just so happens to also be free! Read, listen, and wander with Digital Resources- through Libby and Blackstone Unlimited, you can download travel memoirs, novels set in faraway lands, and audio stories that transport you across borders—all without leaving your favorite reading nook. Discover what’s close to home- sometimes adventure lies just around the corner. Our collection of local guidebooks can point you toward hidden gems right here in our region: hiking trails, historic sites, and smalltown treasures waiting to be uncovered.
Why take these journeys? Because travel— whether across continents or just down the road—opens us to new perspectives. It reminds us that the world is vast, diverse, and full of stories worth knowing. And even when travel
isn’t possible, learning about other cultures and places enriches our everyday lives, making us more curious, empathetic, and connected.
The next time you’re looking for a cozy evening or a spark of inspiration, let the library be your departure point. Settle in, press play, turn the page, or learn a new word — and see where your imagination takes you.
Lauren Buechmann is the head of public relations and marketing at the Washington County Free Library.
Yuletide Getaways
The holiday season is lighting up with scores of events throughout the
Tri-State
Written by Tricia Lynn Strader
We are lucky that our region has many small towns and cities that really know how to do up the holidays right. Whether it’s something spiritual or fun, choices abound. Some begin in early November.
WASHINGTON COUNTY HAGERSTOWN AREA
Hagerstown area’s Christmas events include the ceremony on December 5 with music from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and lighting at 7 p.m. It includes family-friendly activities, craft vendors, a petting zoo, ice sculptures, and more. Outdoor Activities also include a Doughnut & Hot Chocolate Tent sponsored by The Maryland Theatre (while supplies last), giveaways, fire dancing, ice sculptures displays, and DJ Ryan Smetzer emcees from the Lake Pavilion.
The
will be at Hagerstown Community College, on November 22 and 23, and the display, a largescale light show features snow tubing and decorations.
At
enjoy the wonderful Christmas tree and seasonal holiday displays throughout the Museum. Galleries are free and open to the public. The Museum Shop will be open for unique gifts and art-inspired items.
Drive through and enjoy the synchronized lights and music show each evening from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., Dec. 5 through Jan. 1. Tune to 90.3 FM will show
how holidays were celebrated in colonial times. On June 5, 1739, Jonathan Hager bought 200 acres from Daniel Dulany for 44 pounds. He dubbed his tract “Hager’s Fancy.” With the location carefully chosen over cool spring water, construction of the home began which became 3 ½ stories. In 1740, Hager married German neighbor,
Elizabeth Kershner and presented her with the new house. It is styled in the German tradition and is outfitted with authentic period furnishings. It is located at 110 Key Street in Hagerstown City Park. German Christmas is Saturdays Dec. 6, 13, and 20, from at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m. Admission $5 with children 12 and under admitted free. Call (301) 739-8393 or visit hagerhouse.org.
In fact, the Jonathan Hager House begins events the week of November 1 to celebrate the life and legacy of Jonathan Hager — the founder of Hagerstown. A weeklong series of events marks the 250th anniversary of his passing. Visit hager250.org.
On Dec. 11, at 5:30 p.m., hosts a , an “enchanting evening of music” with pianist Thomas Pandolfi and violinist Leonid Sushansky. Reception follows recital in candlelit galleries. Cost is $45 members / $50 non-members. Reservation.
The , or Christkindl Markt,
is December 12-13, offering a German shopping tradition, and the will host its colonial Christmas celebration.
HANCOCK
On November 29 from 3 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Hancock celebrates its annual and tree lighting. Vendors will line the street from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., with the annual lighting of the town Christmas tree and the arrival of Santa following at Joseph Hancock Park. There’s a contest. At each vendor or shop, one can find a hidden gnome holding a special Christmas word. Write it down on your game sheet. The more collected, the better chance of winning. For other holiday information, see Main Street Hancock or Town of Hancock, Md. on Facebook, townofhancock.org, email mainstreethancock@gmail.com or call (301) 678-5622.
WILLIAMSPORT
For a local light display, check the Facebook page for for details on a home display in Williamsport. is private Christmas light display featuring Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus on Mt. Williams Circle.
is an annual three-day outdoor German Christmas Market sponsored and hosted by Kelly Moore Sheds & Marketplace. It’s always the weekend closest to December 6, aka St. Nicholas Day.
For more, check out visithagerstown. com, Town of Williamsport on Facebook, and williamsportmd.gov.
BOONSBORO
in Boonsboro is Dec. 5 at 6:30 p.m. The arrival of Santa Claus in Shafer Park kicks off the beginning of the Olde Tyme Christmas. Santa arrives on a fire truck at 6:30 p.m. as the small Holiday parade travels down Reeder’s Alley, crosses Potomac Street (near the Potomac Street Creamery) and travels down Park Lane toward the Town Christmas tree in Shafer Park. Mayor Long and Santa will light the tree and the Park will be decorated with an array of lights and luminar-
HAGERSTOWN ROUNDHOUSE MUSEUM CHRISTMAS AT THE ROUNDHOUSE AND ‘TRAINS OF CHRISTMAS’
Christmas at the Roundhouse will return Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. November through February 2026. Chec ith se for s ecific dates. It features the large, multilevel Trains of Christmas display, plus Polar Express, Midwood Junction Display, and O, HO & N Scale Trains, kids’ trains, and railroad artifacts. Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum is located at 296 S. Burhans Blvd., Hagerstown. Call (301) 739-4665 or visit roundhouse.org.
The festive tree-lighting in Greencastle-Antrim’s square marks the start of the community’s holiday celebrations.
PENNSYLVANIA
WAYNESBORO
by The Connection Inc. is Dec. 9 at 6:30 p.m., 112 Walnut St. at Renfrew Museum and Park is Dec. 5 and 6. Admission fee required to the event at 1010 E. Main St. Explore the simple joys of Christmas past. Follow the soft glow of flickering lanterns and the fiery blaze of torches to the beautifully decorated Museum House to encounter how treasured
ies. Children can pick up treats and apples and talk to Santa.
Gaye McGovern Ins Agcy Inc
Gaye McGovern, Agent
11373 Robinwood Dr Hagerstown, MD 21742-6706
Bus: 301-790-1462
Fax: 301-790-0513 www.gayemcgovern.com
State Farm
Bloomington, IL
traditions evolved over the centuries. Historic outbuildings will have period-attired interpreters. Enjoy a cozy warming circle while waiting to take a horse-drawn wagon ride. Check out Renfrew’s museum shop and Christkindlmarkt for that special gift. Events also include live music and crafts. See renfrewmuseum.org/Christmas.
Visit mainstreetwaynesboro.org for updates to events.
GREENCASTLE
Greencastle’s main holiday celebration is , a series of events organized by the GreencastleAntrim Chamber of Commerce in November and December, featuring a tree lighting ceremony, Christmas parades, “Heritage Christmas in the Square” gatherings with Santa and treats, and a “Light
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA
The General Adam Stephen Memorial Association hosts its third on November 1 at the in Martinsburg. Reservations are required by Oct. 26 for seatings at noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. Cost is $35. Call (301) 514-9778.
“We have gotten really good comments for our Tea,” says Marty Keesecker of the General Adam Stephen Memorial Association. “The food we serve and sweets are outstanding, made by the ladies of the Association. We give a lot more good food than some other tea events.”
The Association’s fall yard sale will be held November 1 & 2, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on both days. Donated items are sold at reasonable prices, with proceeds going toward the upkeep of the Revolutionary War general’s house.
The General Adam Stephen House, home of Martinsburg’s founder, is always decorated to Colonial style for the first two weekends in December for candlelight evening tours. Décor relies heavily on holly and evergreens, and some fruits. In the 18 Century, people didn’t decorate their homes much, and Christmas trees were not even thought of yet. Fruit was a costly purchase, Keesecker explained. But that
It Up” house decorating contest.
The 40th Annual is Nov. 22 at 9 a.m. Call (717) 597-4610 or see explorefranklincountypa.com for information on events.
CHAMBERSBURG
Some key events of Christmastime in Chambersburg are the 54th Annual and Tree Lighting held in November at Philadelphia and King Streets, followed by the tree lighting ceremony. The is a walking trail featuring over 100 lighted displays from late November to January.
Visit explorefranklincountypa.com for more informa-
doesn’t mean they didn’t know how to party like it was the 1700s.
“They did party for the 12 days of Christmas,” he says. “There was the religious celebration, but families and friends would get together and if you had visitors, they often stayed several nights. It was a popular time to have weddings, because more people were together. George and Martha Washington got married in January during that time. People at a lot of sweets and drank a lot of punch if they could afford it. The lower classes saved up and prepared the best meals they could.
Colonial Christmas tours are Dec. 6 & 7, and 13 & 14, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Last tour is 7:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be served, and a Christmas shop will be open in the Triple Brick Museum.
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3
tion on Chambersburg events.
WEST VIRGINIA
BERKELEY SPRINGS
That red-suited guy is certainly busy this time of year. The jolly old elf also makes appearances in Berkeley Springs. The folks at have for the last several years, decorated Berkeley Springs with holiday streetlights, wreaths, setting up nostalgic Christmas displays like Santa and his sleigh at the (former) Trump & Trump building, letters to Santa in cooperation with the library, and more. They started in 2016 with lifelong resident Hunter Clark approaching the mayor about replacing the town’s lantern lights, and continued with volunteers, and crafts artists refurbishing the Santa and his sleigh and snow people.
Hunter Clark explains that the Santa is the original one he remembers as a kid, and dates back to 1949. The snow people are original to that date. Other pieces like the reindeer have been duplicated from the originals used as patterns.
“I wanted to make it the decorations my friends and I remembered from the 1950s and ‘60s,” Clark says.
The Town of Bath, Chamber of Commerce, Travel Berkeley Springs, Bath Christmas Project, the Morgan County Library, businesses, and others all work together to have activities like the on the first Saturday in December, the tree lighting afterward in Berkeley Springs State Park, and sleigh rides with Santa and Mrs. Claus the second weekend in December. Santa also plans to
have breakfast with the kiddies on Dec. 6 at Charlotte’s Café.
See Bath Christmas Project and Friends of Berkeley Castle on Facebook, or check out Travel Berkeley Springs and Berkeley Springs-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce. Visit berkeleysprings.com.
The is the second weekend in December and is in its second year. Also returning is the skating rink. Save the date for Dec.12-14. See Bath Christmas
This Berkeley Springs holiday parade featured Santa and Mrs. Claus being pulled by special escort.
2025
Tri State’s Best
384 WINNERS & FINALISTS!
128 CATEGORIES
MORE THAN
42,500 VOTES CAST
From BUFFETS to BARBECUE, from BOUTIQUES to BANKS, here is this year’s roster of businesses, people, places, and more, chosen by our Tri-State readers as the Best of the Best. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!
ABOUT THE TRI-STATE’S BEST READERS POLL
Our two-round, five-week poll featured 128 categories covering such topics as Beauty & Health, Dining, Entertainment, Home Services, Shopping, and Top Employers. Readers nominated and voted for the best businesses in their locations, racking up a grand total of 42,513 votes cast in the final round alone.
During round one of the poll, voters nominated their favorites. The top five nominations in each category then moved on to round two in a head-to-head format. Those who made this final list of Winners and Finalist have earned the right to say they are one of Tri-State’s Best!
This one-of-a-kind contest is conducted throughout the USA Today Network, with publications in more than 100 regions nationwide. Whether you’re looking for an exceptional landscaper or the best spot for barbecue, this list will have you covered.
Check out our online edition of these results at yourchoiceawards .com/tristate
BARBER SHOP (FRANKLIN COUNTY)
CROWN BEAUTY AND BARBER LOUNGE
WAYNESBORO
12080 Skyhawk Drive, Unit A 717-387-5215
Find Us On Facebook
FINALISTS
IN THE CUTS
BARBER SHOP
Find Us On Facebook
THE DAPPER HOUSE BARBERSHOP
dapperhousebarbershop.com
BARBER SHOP (WASHINGTON COUNTY)
WILLIAMSPORT
BARBER SHOP
WILLIAMSPORT 12 N. Conococheague St. 301-223-8220
Find Us On Facebook
FINALISTS
IN THE CUTS
BARBER SHOP
Find Us On Facebook
PETE’S BARBER SHOP, BOONSBORO
vagaro.com/us03/ petesbarbershop
CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC
HAGERSTOWN HEALTH
CHIROPRACTIC & PHYSICAL THERAPY
HAGERSTOWN 1329 Pennsylvania Ave., Suite 102 301-791-7111 hagerstownhealth.com
FINALISTS
MICHAEL E. BARVINCHACK, DC, PC (301)714-4929
PACI CHIROPRACTIC pacichiropractic.com
COSMETIC/PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER
MERITUS COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY
HAGERSTOWN 11110 Medical Campus Road, #241 301-790-8000 meritushealth.com
FINALISTS
LUNA AESTHETICS lunaaesthetics.org
PLASTIC SURGERY SERVICES plasticsurgeryservices.net
DERMATOLOGY CLINIC
ANNE ARUNDEL DERMATOLOGY
HAGERSTOWN 1185 Imperial Drive, Suite 201 667-296-5288 aadermatology.com
FINALISTS
CENTER FOR DERMATOLOGY, ERIK HURST, MD erikbhurstmd.com
HAGERSTOWN DERMATOLOGY hagerstownderm.com
EYE CARE CLINIC
EYECARE PROFESSIONALS
HAGERSTOWN 101 Eastern Blvd N. 240-420-8888 eyecarepros2020.com
FINALISTS LUDWICK EYE CENTER oomc.com/ludwick
MARYLAND VISION INSTITUTE marylandvisioninstitute.com
FAMILY PRACTICE
BLACK ROCK INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE
HAGERSTOWN 120 N. Potomac St. 301-790-4938 blackrockintegrativemedicine.com
FINALISTS
KESSLER FAMILY HEALTH kesslerfamilyhealth.com
MERITUS INTERNAL MEDICINE, MERITUS HEALTH meritushealth.com
HAIR SALON (FRANKLIN COUNTY)
LASTING IMPRESSIONS HAIR AND NAIL STUDIO CHAMBERSBURG 1279 Tallow Hill Road 717-264-1819
Find Us On Facebook
FINALISTS
THE MANE CONNECTION Find Us On Facebook THE RUBY BEAUTY COMPANY therubybeautyco.com
TRACI NEFF, BELLA SALON AND SPA bellasalonandspa.net
HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES (FRANKLIN COUNTY)
FRANKLIN HOSPICE
HAGERSTOWN
1710 Underpass Way, Suite 300 301-791-6360 hospiceofwc.org
FINALISTS A PLACE FOR MOM aplaceformom.com
SPIRITRUST LUTHERAN spiritrustlutheran.org
HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES (WASHINGTON COUNTY)
HOSPICE OF WASHINGTON COUNTY
HAGERSTOWN 1710 Underpass Way, Suite 300 301-791-6360 hospiceofwc.org
FINALISTS RIGHT AT HOME rightathome.net
VISITING ANGELS hospiceofwc.org
HOSPITAL/ MEDICAL CENTER (WASHINGTON COUNTY)
MERITUS HEALTH
HAGERSTOWN
11116 Medical Campus Road 301-790-8000 meritushealth.com
FINALISTS
HAGERSTOWN
SURGERY CENTER hagerstownsurgerycenter.com
MERCY MEDICAL mdmercy.com
MASSAGE THERAPY
BODYWORKS
MASSAGE CENTER
HAGERSTOWN 18745 N. Pointe Drive 301-745-6490 bodyworksmassagecenter.com
FINALISTS
FIVE SENSES fivesensestm.com
INDIGO MOON AMBER SUN THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE indigomoonambersun.com
MEDICAL SPA (WASHINGTON COUNTY)
PLASTIC SURGERY SERVICES
HAGERSTOWN
The Galleria 1140 Conrad Court 301-671-0762 plasticsurgeryservices.net
FINALISTS
AGELESS SKIN AND LASER CENTER tristateskinandlasercenter.com
LUNA AESTHETICS lunaaesthetics.org
NAIL SALONMANICURE/PEDICURE
HALO SALON WILLIAMSPORT
2 W. Potomac Parkway salonhalo.setmore.com
FINALISTS
FANCY NAILS
Find Us On Facebook
NAIL PALACE AND SPA Find Us On Facebook
HENRY F . GARAZO, MD, FACS BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
Thank you to all of our incredible patients for all of the support for Plastic Surgery Services! Dr. Garazo and his staff are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue to be YOUR Tri-State’s BEST of the BEST Cosmetic/Plastic Surgeon for the SIXTH YEAR in a row! Thank you!
Dr. Garazo and his sta at Plastic Surgery Services are happy to provide patients with privacy during treatments and procedures in our fully accredited surgical suite, highest quality patient care, and exceptional results. Dr. Garazo has been inducted as a member of The Aesthetic Society since 2018, featuring the most advanced plastic surgeons. O ering complimentary consultations with Dr. Garazo for plastic surgery, injections and also skin cancer diagnosis, removal and repair.
• Board-certified plastic surgeon with 20+ years of experience
• Fully accredited, private surgical suite
• We are o ering complimentary consultations
• All injections personally performed by Dr. Garazo, every time!
• Experienced and friendly sta
• Certified Medical Aesthetician providing skincare treatments, medical grade skincare, and a variety of services.
OB/GYN (WASHINGTON COUNTY)
JAY GREENBERG, MD
MERITUS WOMEN’S
HEALTH SPECIALISTS
HAGERSTOWN 1130 Professional Blvd. 301-791-5555 meritushealth.com
FINALISTS
ANDREW J. OH, MD, CAPITAL WOMEN’S CARE cwcare.net
BELLA ANDELE, MD, MERITUS WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS meritushealth.com
ORTHODONTIC CLINIC
TOOTHMAN ORTHODONTICS
HAGERSTOWN 81 N. Edgewood Drive 301-791-1770
toothmanorthodontics.com
FINALISTS
HUB CITY ORTHODONTICS
hubcityorthodontics.com
ROBINWOOD DENTAL robinwooddentalcenter.com
PEDIATRIC CLINIC
THE CHILDREN’S DOCTOR
HAGERSTOWN 319 E. Antietam St. 301-790-3620 thechildrensdoctor.com
FINALISTS
ANTIETAM PEDIATRIC AND ADOLESCENT CARE myprivia.com
OPAL COURT PEDIATRICS opalcourtpediatrics.com
PEDIATRIC DENTAL PRACTICE
FOUNTAINHEAD DENTISTRY
HAGERSTOWN
18638 Crestwood Drive
301-797-6950
fountainheaddentistry.com FINALISTS
FREDERICK PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY LLC fpdentistry.com
KEYSTONE PEDIATRIC DENTAL, KEYSTONE HEALTH keystonehealth.org
ALL-AROUND RESTAURANT (FRANKLIN COUNTY)
PARLOR HOUSE
WAYNESBORO
724 S Potomac St. 717-762-5415
Find Us On Facebook
FINALISTS
B STREET 104
RESTAURANT & PUB bstreet104.com
BISTRO 71 norlandbistro71.com
ALL-AROUND RESTAURANT (WASHINGTON COUNTY)
THE GRILLE AT RUNWAYS
HAGERSTOWN
18421 Henson Blvd. 240-707-6466
thegrillehgratrunways.com FINALISTS
BISTRO 11 bistroeleven.com
SCHULAS GRILL & CRAB HOUSE schulasgrillandcrab.com
BIG CORK VINEYARDS bigcorkvineyards.com GREEN GROVE GARDENS gggeventcenter.com
1 DAY TRIPS
Holidays, Ice.
KEY WEST, FLORIDA
Monday-Thursday, January 19-22, 2026- $2079 per person (double occupancy) round trip air to Key West, round-trip airport transportation, round trip trolley transportation to and from hotel. 3 nights in Key West at Florida Keys and Key West Lodging Association’s “Property of the Year”, the Doubletree Grand Key Resort located a mile from the airport. Complimentary transportation from hotel to Duval Street and the beaches.
NEW ORLEANS PRE MARDI GRAS 2025
Monday February 9- Friday February 13, 2026 $2199 per person (double occupancy) Roundtrip airfare to New Orleans, 5 days , 4 nights accommodations in French Quarter 7 Meals New Orleans School of Cooking, comprehensive city tour of New Orleans, Mardi Gras World Museum, National World War II Museum (including 4D film), Steamboat Natchez Harbor Cruise, Louisiana Swamp Boat tour, and reserved parade bleacher seating for four parades in New Orleans
LAS VEGAS
5 Days/ 4 Nights, Monday –Friday, February 20-24, 2025 $879 per person (double occupancy) Includes: Round-Trip Motorcoach to BWI, Round-trip non-stop air to Las Vegas, Round-trip Airport to Hotel Transfers, 4nights accommodations at the fabulous Excalibur Hotel & Casino.
CAPE COD 2026
Sunday-Thursday June 7-11-$959 per person (double occupancy) includes 4 nights lodging , 4 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners including a Lobsterbake Guided tour of the Cape to Provincetown with afternoon Whale Watch Cruise. Cape Cod Canal Cruise, Guided tour of Hyannis, Kennedy Museum, Tour of Sandwich and, round trip ferry to Martha’s Vineyard with tour.
NEW YORK CITY Saturday, November 29, December 6, 13, 20 $99 per person
CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL LUNCH CRUISE Saturday, April 4 $175 per person
JOSHUA at Sight & Sound Friday, April 10 $179 per person. Includes meal at Hershey Farms
ACCOUNTANT
ACCOUNTING FIRM
KELLI
FINANCE
BANK (WASHINGTON COUNTY)
MIDDLETOWN VALLEY BANK
MIDDLETOWN
24 W. Main St.
301-371-6700 mvbbank.com
FINALISTS
CNB BANK cnb.bank
PATRIOT FEDERAL CREDIT UNION patriotfcu.org
INVESTMENT FIRM
CNB BANK
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS cnb.bank
FINALISTS
THE HOLZAPFEL GROUP, MORGAN STANLEY advisor.morganstanley.com
RBC WEALTH
MANAGEMENT BRANCH, HAGERSTOWN us.rbcwealthmanagement.com MORTGAGE LENDING COMPANY
MIDDLETOWN BANK - MLEND MIDDLETOWN 24 W. Main St. 301-371-6700 mvbbank.com
SULLIVAN’S VIRGINIA AVENUE SHELL SERVICE CENTER Find Us On Facebook
HAGERSTOWN HONDA
HAGERSTOWN 10307 Auto Place 301-799-8676 hagerstownhonda.com FINALISTS
MARION MOTORS marionmotors.org
YOUNGER TOYOTA youngertoyota.com
Homemade Gifts from the Kitchen
Written by Lisa McCoy
Doyou have trouble finding the “right” gifts for your family and friends at the holidays? Homemade gifts from the kitchen are personal because you put the thought and time into what you think they may enjoy.
These gifts can be prepared ahead or also make great last-minute gift solutions. Some great ideas for homemade gifts from the kitchen include:
Making homemade cookies and other baked goods is a holiday tradition in many households. To have a good outcome, remember that baking requires accuracy and following recipes. Before you begin to bake, read over your recipes to be sure you have all the ingredients you need. Don’t forget to make sure that you have fresh quality ingredients, especially eggs, baking powder and baking soda.
Here are some tips to give you “blue ribbon” cookies:
• One common cause of cookie failures is inaccurate measurement of ingredients. Use a glass or plastic liquid measuring cup for water, oil and milk; and a dry measuring cup for flour and sugar, leveling off at the top of the cup with a knife or spatula (except brown sugar, which is packed and leveled off).
• Once you have mixed your cookie dough, refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes before baking. This makes it easier to handle and not so sticky. For a large batch, divide the dough in
half and work with only half at a time.
• If you are making rolled cookies, work with small batches, keeping the remaining dough refrigerated until ready to roll it out. Consider placing the dough between 2 sheets of parchment or wax paper, when rolling it out. Remove the top sheet to cut out the shapes. Dip your metal cookie cutters in flour before cutting for a cleaner cut. Use a quick dip in warm vegetable oil for plastic cookie cutters so you get a more defined pattern on the dough.
• Using multiple cookie sheets when baking allows them to cool between batches, so the dough does not start to melt before baking. There are several options to prepare the cookie sheets to keep cookies from sticking. Grease them with vegetable shortening or unsalted butter; or line them with aluminum foil, parchment paper or reusable silicone baking mats. Flouring greased cookie sheets prevents the cookie dough from spreading out too much during baking and prevents chocolate chips from burning on the bottom.
COOKIE CUTTERS
Cookie cutters are often passed down from generation to generation and adds some nostalgia to the holiday season. Cookie cutters have evolved over time and do not have a specific date when they were first used. The first popular cookie cutter shape was the gingerbread man shape in the 16th century. By the 1800s, they were made of tin and came in many shapes and sizes. Today, cookie cutters are made of plastic, aluminum, copper and some tin.
Cookie cutters can be used not only for cookies but also to create craft projects, decorate your Christmas tree, make specialty pancakes and sandwiches, or even dress up your holiday table as napkin rings. What a great way to share memories with your family and friends.
Did you know that there is a Cookie Cutter Collectors’ Club? This club is for people who share an interest in cookie cutters, their history, and any cookie-related topic. Members of this club maintain and update The National Cookie Cutter Historical Museum in Joplin, Missouri.
• Bake only one sheet of cookies at a time in the center of a pre-heated oven. Remove cookies from the sheet soon after taking them out of the oven and allow them to cool completely on a cooling rack.
• Once they are cooled, store them in an airtight container. You may add a slice of bread to the container to keep the cookies soft. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in airtight freezer container, and use within 6 months for freshness.
• If you want to serve warm cookies from the oven but don’t have time for the preparation, mix up the dough ahead of time and freeze it for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it well in freezer safe material and wrap it twice to prevent any odors from seeping in. Label and date the dough. When ready to bake, defrost the batch of dough in the refrigerator several hours before baking.
Healthy recipe substitutions for baking
If your gift is for someone who is watching their diet, look for recipes that are recommended for specific types of diets. You can also make changes in your own recipes to make them healthier. Listed below are methods to reduce the fat, sugar, and salt without taking away the flavor of the baked good. I recommend experimenting with any changes in the recipe by trying it first, before making your homemade gifts.
Sugar
• Reduce sugar by 1/3 to 1/2 in cookie, pie filling, sweetbread and cake recipes
• Spices such as cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg or flavorings like vanilla or almond extract enhance the sweetness
Egg (1)
• Two egg whites, ¼ cup egg substitute
Whole milk, half & half, or heavy cream
• Skim or 1% milk
• Canned evaporated fat-free milk
Salt
• Reduce the amount of salt in the recipe by one half
Vegetable oil
• Substitute with equal amount of applesauce or fruit puree.
For more information on recipe swaps: check out this University of Maryland publication: extension.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/publications/76.%20Recipe%20Swaps_0.pdf
Part of the fun of making gifts from your kitchen is selecting the packaging for them. Choose decorative jars, tins, boxes, baskets and other containers for a unique, personal look. Try to find a container that matches the personality of the gift receiver. Other ideas include mugs, bowls, trays, or other serving items. Finish off your gift with a pretty ribbon or bow and gift tag, with a special note. Remember to include instructions for finishing the recipe or for using the gift.
Nothing says, “You are special” more than a homemade gift from your kitchen.
Servings: 24
Ingredients:
• 1 cup carrots, washed, peeled and grated
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• ¼ cup applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup oats
• 1 cup flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup raisins
• ½ cup nuts, chopped
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon
• Cooking oil spray
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. Spray baking sheets with cooking oil spray.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat together honey, oil, applesauce, vanilla if used, and eggs.
4 In a medium bowl, mix the oats, flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon and salt.
5. Add the dry oat mixture to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
6. Add the carrots, nuts, and raisins and stir to combine.
7. Use one tablespoon of batter for each cookie, and drop onto baking sheet.
8. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
McCoy is a registered dietitian at the University of Maryland Extension
Carrot & Oatmeal Cookies
Lisa
What distinguishes home care from hospice care
Hospitals are in the business of treating patients and helping them overcome injuries and illnesses. In many instances, hospitals offer unparalleled care. However, hospitals are not always without risk, and sometimes are not the most comfortable places for their patients, particularly those recovering from injuries or facing end of life.
Fluorescent lights, beeping machine monitors and 24-hour personnel conversing at all hours of the day can disrupt natural sleep patterns. Hospital patients may be woken at night for status checks and to draw blood. Staff shortages may mean some patients become lower priority and do not receive much individualized attention. Medication mistakes and hospital-acquired infections also are risks that patients take when they are admitted to a hospital. Many people would prefer an alternative, if possible, particularly if they have a serious illness to recover from or a terminal condition. Some individuals may be eligible for home-based care.
People may mistakenly think that home care and hospice care are one and the same. In fact,
home care and hospice are two distinct services that provide support to individuals with serious conditions. They share similarities, but they differ in goals and eligibility.
Home care
The main scope of home health care is curative. The goal is to help a patient recover from a surgery, injury or illness, according to Vitas Healthcare. Patients typically are visited by skilled nursing providers, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, or occupational therapists. How long home health care services last depends on the patient’s needs and goals.
To be eligible for home coverage, patients have to meet certain criteria, such as being considered homebound. This means limited ability to leave the home without help. Service length depends on the needs of the patient, and frequency may decrease over time as the patient’s health improves.
Hospice care
Hospice care can be administered at home or in another setting, but it’s different from other home care in that it is not curative. Patients who
have terminal illnesses can be placed in hospice care. This care focuses on pain and symptom management for those who are not expected to live longer than six months. Hospice services can include help with personal care from a home health aide, skilled nursing, medical social work to help with advanced directives and insurance, and bereavement counseling.
To receive hospice care, a doctor must determine that the patient has less than six months to live if the illness will follow the typical course. Hospice patients do not have to be homebound, according to Amedisys, a provider of health care in the home. Hospice visits typically increase over time as the patient’s health declines.
Home health care and hospice care are services with different eligibility and modes of care designed to assist patients in home settings.
1775: A Colonial Christmas Celebrating the Season on the Frontier
Written by Matthew Wedd
Wassail and warm wishes to you this festive season! From all of us at the Conococheague Institute, we extend heartfelt holiday greetings and vibrant health as the year draws to a close. While the world outside grows cold and quiet, our historic homestead on the Pennsylvania frontier is anything but. Every Saturday throughout the year, we keep 18th-century life alive, and winter is no exception. This year, you’re invited to journey back 250 years to 1775: A Colonial Christmas. This would be America’s last holiday before becoming its own sovereign nation, and our celebratory event takes place on Saturday, December 13th,
from 10am to 4pm. Step into the world of the American frontier and experience the rich traditions, tastes, and tales of the season as it might have been celebrated in a small colonial community.
What Did Christmas Look Like in 1775?
Today’s Christmas traditions may be filled with glittering trees, elaborate meals, and gift exchanges, but in colonial America (especially in rural areas like the Conococheague frontier) the holidays looked quite different. For many, Christmas Day was still a workday. But that doesn’t mean the season passed unnoticed.
For Anglicans and Catholics, attending a Christmas Day sermon was a meaningful obser-
vance. In fact, so many Presbyterian parishioners were slipping into Anglican Christmas services that some Presbyterian ministers began offering their own Christmas sermons just to keep pace!
In Philadelphia in 1772, the “Twelve Days of Christmas” were even granted as a school holiday for grammar students at the College of Philadelphia, proof that even in the colonies, the festive season made its mark.
Here in our region, heavily influenced by Welsh settlers, a unique tradition may have been practiced known as Plygain—a sunrise Christmas service where communities would gather to sing hymns from 3 to 6 in the morning. Whether in a grand city or a humble frontier cabin, Christmas held significance as a time of reflection, worship, and, when possible, joy.
In the colder months, the Conococheague Institute becomes a scenic winter frontier homestead.
Wassail to You!
No Colonial Christmas would be complete without diving into the centuries-old tradition of Wassailing. From the Old English phrase Waes hael, meaning “be in good health,” this toast to health and happiness has taken many forms over the ages.
In medieval England, wassailing was both a practical and mystical practice. Farmers would carry spiced cider or ale into their orchards, singing songs to the apple trees and hanging soaked bread in the branches—offerings for a good harvest in the coming year. In an age where the average 18th-century person drank up to 36 gallons of cider annually, keeping the apple trees happy was a serious matter!
But not all wassailing was so wholesome. In colonial towns and cities, the tradition took on a more boisterous flavor. Revelers would go door to door demanding food and drink, which is closer to trick-or-treating than modern caroling. One Boston resident in 1712 described Christmas as a time of “Mad Mirth, by long eating, by Hard Drinking, by Lewd gaming, by rude Reveling.” It seems the holiday spirit could be just as rowdy as it was cheerful.
These ancient customs live on today in our carols and neighborhood greetings. So whether you’re sipping cider or singing to your trees (we won’t judge), you’re continuing a long, fascinating tradition.
Celebrate the Season Differently
While the modern holiday season can often feel rushed and commercialized, there’s something grounding about looking back at how people in 1775 marked this time of year. Their celebrations were modest but meaningful, shaped by necessity, faith, community, and resilience.
We’re celebrating something else this winter. A $50,000 Matching Campaign for the End of Year Giving season. Contact us for more details on how your donation will be matched by the generosity of our founding Stauffer family.
So waes hael to you and yours—and we hope to see you at 1775: A Colonial Christmas, where the past becomes a present worth unwrapping.
Experience 1775: A Colonial Christmas
At the Conococheague Institute, we don’t just talk about history, we bring it to life. This year’s 1775: A Colonial Christmas promises a full day of festive, hands-on fun for the whole family.
• Watch a Colonial Feast being prepared with authentic 18th-century methods over the hearth.
• Try your hand at baking traditional gingerbread in our period oven—it’s delicious and educational.
• Join in the Wassailing, sing a tune, and learn the meaning behind the merriment.
• Play historic games, explore the grounds, and discover what the holidays meant for early Americans.
• Browse local food and craft vendors to find unique gifts and stocking stuffers.
• Don’t forget to visit our museum store, which will have a special holiday discount!
Children enjoy the holiday season no matter the century.
And of course, no festive day would be complete without something tasty! Our food and drink vendors will keep your belly warm and spirits high throughout the day.
This year’s event is made possible through the generous support of Americana Corner’s Preserving America Partners program and our dedicated community sponsors.
Matthew Wedd is executive director of The Conococheague Institute in Mercersburg.
Smiling faces greet visitors who come to learn about 1775 holiday traditions.
Opening Doors for Future Leaders
Written by Tara Bockstanz
As Director of Graduate Engagement at Leadership Washington County (LWC), I am constantly reminded of the impact our mission has on the community. LWC exists to develop and inspire leaders who are not only excellent in their fields but also deeply committed to service and shaping the future of Washington County. That mission comes alive when we connect individuals who might not otherwise cross paths and empower them to grow, collaborate, and lead.
On September 25 and 26, we welcomed LWC Class #39 with an Opening Retreat at Rocky Gap Resort. Over the course of two full days of self-reflection and team-building exercises, 34 individuals entered the retreat as strangers and left as friends, united by a shared commitment to leadership and service. Among them were seven scholarship recipients — proof of just how critical our fundraising efforts are in making this transformative experience accessible.
One of the greatest challenges we face is ensuring that participation in our program is open to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances. Many of our applicants come from nonprofits, small businesses, or are self-funded, and without support, the cost of tuition can be a barrier. That is why fundraising is at the heart of what we do — it makes our scholarship program possible.
Team building is a big part of LWC Class #39’s time during the retreat.
This year marks a significant milestone: 15 years of scholarship impact. Over that time, we have awarded $226,565 in scholarships to 121 individuals — 89 from nonprofit organizations, 24 from small businesses, and eight who are self-funded. These LWC Class #39 participates in a self-reflection exercise during the retreat.
LWC Class #39 starts the annual retreat at Rocky Gap Resort.
numbers represent more than financial aid; they reflect a decade and a half of community investment in leaders who are strengthening Washington County through service and innovation.
We are especially grateful to our Lead Community Sponsor, CNB Bank. Their commitment goes far beyond financial support — CNB has made it a priority to ensure a representative participates in every LWC class. This dedication underscores their belief in the value of leadership development and community service, and we are proud to partner with them again this year.
To sustain this legacy of impact, we rely on the collective commitment of our graduates, board members, current class members, and the broader community. One of the most exciting ways we raise funds is through our Get Out of Town Raffle, which directly supports scholarships.
Graduates know firsthand the transformative power of this program—how it builds skills, expands networks, and fosters a deep sense of civic responsibility. Board members serve as both ambassadors and champions, amplifying our mission through their leadership. And for current class members, your participation in fundraising helps secure the future of the very program you are experi-
encing today.
For our broader community, your support is equally critical. Whether you are an individual donor, a local business, or a community partner, your investment ensures that Washington County continues to cultivate extraordinary leaders. Together, we can build on 15 years of progress and create an even stronger foundation for the next generation of civic-minded individuals.
In the end, LWC’s ability to provide scholarships depends on the generosity and involvement of those who believe in our mission. With your continued engagement— through donations, participation, and yes,
raffle tickets—we will ensure that leadership development in Washington County remains accessible to all.
To learn more and purchase raffle tickets, please visit leadershipwashingtoncounty.org/ get-out-of-town-2025
Get Out of Town Raffle tickets are available online or from any Board or Class Member, and this year’s packages offer something for everyone:
1. Forest Bathing with Friends – A two-night, three-day stay for two couples in a luxury home in the River Ridge community near Berkeley Springs, WV.
2. Choose Your Own Adventure –$500 towards a dream vacation through Dream Vacations plus a $500 Visa gift card from LWC.
3. Get There Fast & Take It Slow in Largo, FL – Four-night condo stay near Clearwater and Indian Rocks Beach, available August–December 2026.
4. Bavarian Escape – A $250 gift card plus two nights at a European-inspired boutique resort overlooking the Potomac River.
5. Sea La Vie in North Beach, MD – A four-night stay in a beautifully updated three-bedroom beach bungalow.
Every raffle ticket purchased fuels our scholarship fund and ensures that financial barriers do not stand in the way of aspiring leaders.
Here are the packages available as part of Leadership Washington County’s “Get Out of Town” raffle event.
Tara Bockstanz is the director of graduate engagement at Leadership Washington County.
Singer’s Winter Window
Written by Bailey Rafter
Winter has always been a season that invites reflection. The stillness of snow, the softened light, and the contrast between cold landscapes and warm interiors carry a timeless pull on the imagination. For William Henry Singer Jr., one of the museum’s founders, this pull was more than inspiration - it was devotion.
Over half of Singer’s works in the museum’s collection are winter scenes. Some of this no doubt reflects the long, deep winters of Norway, where he made his home. Yet the works reveal more than geographical circumstance. They reflect a painter who saw in the season not only challenge, but poetry.
Singer’s landscapes often feature his trademark lone trees - steadfast pines, graceful birches, and the sturdy rowan. In his winter works, those trees take on even greater weight, standing resilient against snow-laden hillsides and icy rivers. Unlike his summer scenes, which drop viewers directly into fields and mountain passes, his winter works often place us at a remove - as though gazing from a windowsill. There is a sense of shelter implied, as if just beyond the frame one might find a steaming drink, a fire-lit hearth, and the company of loved ones.
Singer also painted the emotional core of the season. His work Christmas Eve depicts a blue-dark, sunless day in a Norwegian village, punctuated by the warm glow of firelight from cottage windows. It is both deeply still and quietly celebratory, an image that resonates with the very essence of the holiday spirit.
This winter, Singer’s vision finds a living echo within the museum. As part of the major exhibition In Nature’s Studio: Two Centuries of American Landscape Painting, the museum will host a series of programs that invite visitors to
experience nature and community in much the same spirit Singer conveyed in his art.
The exhibition itself is a sweeping journey through nearly 90 works that explore how artists across generations interpreted the American landscape. Organized by the Reading Public Museum, In Nature’s Studio highlights both the beauty of nature and the ways in which landscape art has shaped American identity. Visitors encounter serene pastures, dramatic mountain vistas, and luminous seascapes - all interpretations of place and spirit that resonate with Singer’s own devotion to capturing landscape in paint.
To celebrate the season, the museum will celebrate this holiday season not with a traditionally decorated tree, but with a nod to nature with a “grove” of more naturalistic trees in the museum’s atrium. Bringing the atmosphere of a snowy woodland indoors. Against this backdrop, the museum’s holiday programs will unfold, including our open-late December Fridays, offering opportunities for art, music, reflection, and merriment.
The season begins on Wednesday, December 3, with Winter Wreath Making with Sukey Rankin. In this festive workshop, participants will craft their own fresh holiday wreaths using natural greenery. Rankin, known for her artistry with seasonal materials, guides guests in
creating unique pieces to take home. With its blend of tradition and creativity, the workshop sets the tone for the museum’s celebration of winter.
On Thursday, December 11, the festivities continue with the “Candlelit” Winter Recital & Reception. Pianist Thomas Pandolfi and violinist Leonid Sushansky will fill the galleries with music, in an environment punctuated by the festive glow of “candles.”. The evening concludes with a reception in the museum’s Kaylor Atrium.
The very next night, Friday, December 12, the museum kicks off its December Fridays series with a family-themed Holiday Night. This joyful event invites all ages to make art together, share in sweet treats, and discover festive fun throughout the museum. Much like Singer’s winter paintings, which combine the chill of snow with an undercurrent of homeliness, this evening celebrates togetherness within the season’s sparkle.
On Friday, December 19, the museum hosts Holiday Night: Moonlight & Merriment. Guests can explore the galleries after hours, enjoy seasonal refreshments and music, and enjoy a tour of moonlight scenes featured in the exhibition
In Nature’s Studio: Two Centuries of American Landscape Painting It is an evening designed for anyone seeking a bit of enchantment under the spell of winter’s night.
William Henry Singer, Jr.’s “Christmas Eve,” 1928, oil on canvas
Finally, on Sunday, December 21, the museum offers Winter Solstice Yoga: Finding Light in Nature’s Studio. This gentle yoga practice in the Kaylor Atrium draws inspiration from the luminous landscapes on view, honoring the turning of the season and the gradual return of light. Just as Singer’s art captured the balance between cold landscapes and inner warmth, this program provides space to find grounding and renewal.
Together, these events highlight the dual nature of winter: its stillness and its festivity, its quiet introspection and its joyful gatherings. They also create a natural bridge between Singer’s legacy and the ongoing vitality of the museum. His reverence for the season lives on not only in paint but also in the ways we come together to celebrate art, nature, and community.
Singer’s winter paintings remind us that the season is not merely endured but embraced. Snow transforms the world into a canvas of light and shadow, inviting us to slow down, to notice, and to connect. The museum’s holiday programming extends that invitation outward, offering experiences that engage all the senses: music echoing in candlelit halls, the laughter of families making art together, the glow of moonlit galleries, the grounding breath of yoga on the solstice - and even the fragrance of fresh evergreen wreaths crafted by hand.
As visitors step into the winter forest installation, they may well feel the same sense of wonder Singer conveyed in brushstrokes more than a century ago.
Just as his painting Christmas Eve reminds us that warmth radiates even in the darkest nights, the museum’s holiday season promises moments of light, joy, and shared memory.
This winter, through Singer’s window and through the lens of In Nature’s Studio, we are invited to see not only landscapes of snow and silence, but also the enduring warmth of art and community.
Bailey Rafter is the manager of marketing and publication for Washington County Museum of Fine Arts. To learn more about the museum, go to www.wcmfa.org.
Singer,’s “Dream Harbor,” 1929, oil on canvas
Singer’s “Joyous Winter Sun,” 1921, oil on canvas
YULETIDE GETAWAYS
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
Market WV on Facebook for details.
Bath Christmas Project also works with Peter and Lydia Brimelow and the Berkeley Springs Castle Foundation to open the Berkeley Springs Castle for tours and a visit with Santa and chance to have some holiday treats. It’s always a popular event and tour spots fill up quickly.
The castle, built in the late 1800s, was inspired by Berkeley Castle in Gloucestershire, England. Built by 100 German masons over 6 years, the 9,300 square-foot Castle is constructed of local silica sandstone, painstakingly brought to the property by horse and wagon in the Gilded Age. It has often been the site of special events or weddings.
“The Brimelows offered the castle as a fundraiser for us,” said Hunter Clark. “We decorate and charge for tours. All the proceeds go to Bath Christmas Project.”
Check out Friends of Berkeley Castle on Facebook or visit berkeleyspringscastle.com.
The is the first Friday in December, this year Dec. 5, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Get updates from Cocoa Crawl in Downtown Berkeley Springs on Facebook. Follow the Cocoa Crawl map to visit shops around Berkeley Springs, each with a different treat or flavor in their cocoa. Shop and enjoy a hot cup of the chocolate concoction. The map is available online and at participating Crawl Stops the week of the Crawl. Start anywhere on the route. It’s a free event.
CHARLES TOWN
On Friday, Dec. 5, takes place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Charles Town, 115 E. Washington St.
The is 2 p.m. on Dec. 6. The theme for the parade is “Almost Heaven Holiday,” celebrating true West Virginia pride. Residents can also expect festive lights throughout the area, with various holiday light displays becoming prominent features. More information is available at Charles Town Now website, charlestownnow.org, charlestownwv.us, and Charles Town’s Facebook page.
HARPERS FERRY
in Harpers Ferry has been a signature event since 1971. It opens on the first Friday in December and continues for two weekends. Experience a traditional Christmas celebration as quaintly decorated streets come alive for the holiday season, and check out unique seasonal activities or shop at the Handmade Holiday Market. Other activities usually include entertainment, historical tours, and carriage rides. For more information, visit experienceharpersferry.com.
MARTINSBURG
in Martinsburg includes a festive day on Dec. 6 with live music, food trucks, a Christmas market, free kids’ activities, and of course, Santa stopping by. Don’t miss the tree lighting ceremony. On Dec. 9, the Christmas Parade lights up the downtown, transforming streets into a twinkling winter wonderland, with Santa returning.
Although this list contains a variety of events around the region, there’s always more to explore. For more information, check out each county, town, or state’s websites and tourist centers for more information.
Have a happy and safe holiday season!
SHEPHERDSTOWN
Friday, Nov. 28 begins the season with . It welcomes the season featuring The Grinch, Cindy Lou and the Whos, and as always, the return of Santa Claus. The town lights up for the season and Shepherdstown Volunteer Fire Department will have the bonfire with s’mores; the Kiwanis will be selling their huge selection of homemade chili, the stores will be decorated and offer some of the best shopping for gifts, and Mrs. Claus will read in the streets, and Santa will light the town tree. Parking in metered spaces is free on Friday, Nov. 29, and every Saturday and Sunday. Starting in December, the meters are free every day until January. There are convenient lots one block away from downtown that are open on weekends at Princess & High St. (Shepherd U lot) and Princess & Washington St. (Jefferson Security Bank lots).
Other weekends have events like Friday, Dec. 5 with another bonfire with s’mores, specials at the shops, and Christmas caroling.
The is Nov. 29 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Community Club (War Memorial Building) at 102 E. German St. The event is free and includes magic, face painting, hot cocoa, and Santa. takes place several times. According to provided information, the class is a mash-up of sing-alongs, instruments, and music exposure designed for parents and kids under eight years old. Registration is $15 per class. Register online. For information, visit windgapmusic.com or (304) 658-7191.
For more information, check out Christmas in Shepherdstown Facebook page or visit shepherdstown.info.
The Berkeley Springs gazebo is all aglow.
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How to Financially Plan for Buying Holiday Gifts and Travel
Written by Jacob W. Barr
How to Financially Plan for Buying Holiday Gifts and Travel
The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and connection but it can also be a source of financial stress. Between gift-giving, travel, parties, and decorations, the costs can quickly add up. However, with some thoughtful planning and smart budgeting, you can enjoy the holidays without breaking the bank or accumulating debt. Here’s how to financially plan for buying holiday gifts and travel.
Start Early and Set a Realistic Budget
The most effective way to manage holiday expenses is to start planning well in advance. Ideally, you should begin your financial planning for the holidays several months ahead, but even starting in the fall can make a big difference.
Begin by reviewing your income, regular expenses, and any savings goals. Then decide how much you can realistically afford to spend during the holiday season without compromising your financial stability. Allocate a specific amount for each of the major holiday spending categories: Gifts, Travel, Food and entertainment, Decorations and other extras.
Once you’ve set an overall budget, stick to it. Consider using budgeting apps or spreadsheets to help track your expenses and stay accountable.
Make a Detailed Gift List
Gifts often take up the largest portion of a holiday budget. Avoid overspending by creating a detailed list of everyone you plan to buy for, along with gift ideas and spending limits for each person. This will help prevent impulse purchases and ensure that you’re treating everyone fairly.
If money is tight, consider alternatives such as:
Homemade gifts (baked goods, crafts, or DIY kits) Experience gifts (movie tickets, local attractions, or time spent together) Secret Santa exchanges (especially with large groups or families)
Remember: Thoughtfulness matters more than price.
Plan Travel Costs Carefully
If you’re traveling for the holidays, transportation and lodging can be a significant expense. To keep costs under control:
Book early: Flights, train tickets, and accommodations are usually cheaper the earlier you book. Be flexible: Traveling midweek or avoiding peak travel days can lead to substantial savings. Use rewards points or miles: If you have a credit card with travel rewards, this is the perfect time to use them. Consider alternatives: Driving instead of flying, staying with family, or using home-sharing services can help cut costs.
Also, factor in extra travel-related costs like airport parking, baggage fees, pet boarding, or meals on the road.
Start a Holiday Savings Fund
One of the best ways to prepare for holiday spending is by setting aside money throughout the year. Open a separate savings account labeled “Holiday Fund,” and contribute a small amount regularly; weekly or
For example, saving just $20 a week starting in January would give you over $1,000 by December.
Automate the process to make saving effortless and resist the temptation to dip into this fund for non-holiday expenses.
Shop Smart and Look for Deals
Holiday sales, discount codes, and cashback programs can help you stretch your budget further:
Shop during sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and end-of-season clearances. Use coupon apps or browser extensions. Compare prices online before making purchases. Buy in bulk for stocking stuffers or gift baskets.
Also, consider setting price alerts for bigticket items so you can purchase them when they drop to their lowest price.
Avoid Using Credit Cards (If You Can’t Pay Them Off Quickly)
Using credit cards to finance holiday spending can lead to debt that lingers long after the season ends. If you do use credit, make sure you have a plan to pay it off within one or two billing cycles. Otherwise, interest charges will quickly erase any holiday cheer.
Instead, prioritize cash, debit, or savings to fund your purchases. If necessary, scale back your plans to stay within your means.
The holidays should be about creating memories—not financial regret. With a clear plan, disciplined budgeting, and a focus on meaningful giving, you can enjoy the season without the stress. Start early, spend wisely, and remember that the best gift you can give your future self is financial peace of mind.
