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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Art: Personal or Political?
All Available at the Museum of
Council Looks at Art, and How Do We More Than See.
Volume 12, Issue 3
Glenn Garvie
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Nicole Abuhamada, Jacob W. Barr, Tara Bockstanz, Lauren Beuchmann, Paulette Lee, Lisa McCoy, Tricia Lynn Strader, Matthew Wedd
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ON THE COVER:
A colorful planting by the Foxglove Garden Club on the courthouse green in Berkeley Springs.
Photo by Tricia Lynn Strader
Color Your World
Join the Summer Reading Club
Written by Lauren Buechmann
Whether you’re a young reader just beginning your journey, a teen looking to escape into a thrilling fantasy or graphic novel, or an adult eager to explore new ideas, our reading club has something for everyone. Reading helps build strong minds, sparks curiosity, and keeps learning fresh. Many of us love books, yet don’t always “find” the time for them. Rules? What rules! Read, enjoy, and earn prizes!
You prefer reading old car manuals? Terrific. Newspapers keep you feeling “in the know”? Wonderful. Kids love graphic novels? So do we. Been meaning to sit and read through some new cookbooks for inspiration? Yes to that. Love a good audiobook or podcast? Yes to that too! There are a lot of options for reading and expanding your mind and we say Yes to them.
The Summer Reading Club offers an opportunity to reach milestones for reading for 15 days, 30 days, and 50 days. You don’t have to count your minutes, just
read each day for as long or short as you like and keep track to earn prizes at your local library branch.
It’s not all about books, though. Libraries across the nation will be hosting programs for their Summer Reading Clubs, and the Washington County Free Library will too! Think chalk art parties for the kids, art projects and classes geared to all different ages and skill levels, live music and storytelling, magic shows, live animal encounters, outdoor movies, story walks, historical presentations, chances to create mini art canvases to be displayed the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, and so much more. Adults that enjoy all that the library has to offer may find themselves wondering how else to participate in their library community. Joining the Friends of the Library can open up a world of opportunities. Attending an outreach event to let others know all the library offers, volunteering for a special program like a language or computer class, becoming a member of the Board, preparing newsletters, or advocating for library services
at the State Capitol, are just some of the roles. Many libraries have an established group that you can join, find out more about the Washington County Free Library’s FOL group by visiting washcolibrary.org/support.
This summer, let your imagination shine bright - through August 31, sign up online or at any library branch to start your self-led, low-pressure reading journey. Earn prizes for reading, take part in vibrant programs, and enjoy special events designed to inspire creativity and fun. Join today and “Color” your summer with the power of reading!
Visit washcolibrary.org/src for more information.
Lauren Buechmann is the head of public relations and marketing at the Washington County Free Library.
Members of the Foxglove Garden Club in Berkeley Springs are celebrating 50 years of the organization’s founding.
FOXGLOVE GARDEN CLUB
Sowing the Seeds of Community for 50 Years
WRITTEN BY TRICIA LYNN STRADER
The ladies of the Foxglove Garden Club in Berkeley Springs, W.Va., have been fostering a sense of community and aspiring to make their town a little brighter for 50 years. The club’s mission is still to “contribute to the beautification of public spaces by creating and maintaining town gardens.”
At a recent club meeting, the ladies discussed an upcoming fundraiser in September, spring and summer gardening projects at Berkeley Springs State Park, the grounds of Morgan County Courthouse, the Herb Garden at the Berkeley Springs Depot/visitor center, and a project at a local cemetery.
Current Club President Jan Wilkins said, “In 2014, a Foxglove member suggested to me that I might enjoy gardening with them. My immediate reply was that I didn’t know very much about gardening. She said ‘Don’t worry; you’ll learn!’ That has certainly been true. Upon becoming a member I was assigned to work at the Courthouse garden, one of our 14 public spaces. Along with four or five workers at that garden, together we planted annuals and perennials in the spring, cared for them over the summer by mulching, weeding and deadheading spent blooms, cleaned up the gardens in the fall to prepare them for the winter, and then started all over
The Garden Club adds a spot of color outside the courthouse green.
again next spring. It has been on-the-job training and has also fostered in me a passion for gardening.”
The June meeting agenda included the third installment of Beth Curtin’s research into the history of the Foxglove Garden Club to mark its 50th anniversary.
“When Morgan County’s first Garden Club organized, they selected the name Tanglewood Garden Club,” says Curtin. “They chose Tanglewood because it reminded them of a familiar town historical site. Tanglewood Cottage fronted on Mercer Street and sat cattycornered from the Presbyterian Church. It was built on lots originally purchased by James Mercer and according to several
letters of General George Washington, in two different seasons he occupied the house of Mr. Mercer. And yes, George Washington slept here.”
The first meeting of the Tangelwood Garden Club was held Jan. 6, 1976, at The Country Inn. After that, they met in homes, and limited membership, so they could be accommodated in members’ homes. Membership is still limited to 35 members.
To the dismay of the original membership, the original name choice Tanglewood belonged to another West Virginia club. After some consideration, they settled on Foxglove, reporting, “The foxglove is a native plant of England which was introduced to America around 1748. The plant is a source of an important heart medication known as digitalis.”
In November 1976, the club received its official charter as the newest club in the Shenandoah-Potomac Garden Council, a part of the National Garden Council. They celebrated at a meeting with an herb luncheon, utilizing the herbs harvested from their project garden beside the train station. Also available was an old-fashioned horehound candy made from horehound harvested from the garden, anise cookies and a variety of herb teas.
Foxglove’s first garden project was to create a “colonial herb garden” in town. It was 1976, the country’s bicentennial
BY
PHOTOS
TRICIA LYNN STRADER
year, and locally the Town of Bath was also celebrating, as it was the town’s 100th birthday. Foxglove proposed taking part in this celebration by establishing a colonial herb garden based upon plants that George Washington (a visitor and landowner in town) planted at Mount Vernon. They approached the town for a plot on the southern side of what was then the Water Department office, the old train depot. They said it was sunny, was in an area that would welcome all individuals to town..
They considered it a good omen that the Town of Bath approved the location on a stormy night when the electricity went out, and their meeting had to be held by candlelight. They said it was the way George would have met.
Their plan was that the garden would support itself with the sale of dried herbs and in one writing they suggested they would all become gourmet cooks using the herbs from the garden. It was the bicentennial, and they hoped the garden could last 200 years but realistically planned for two years. Their ending remark to the town when they presented their plan was, “We hope to plant a little history.”
Today, that garden still welcomes visitors to town.
The German Cemetery has been a decades-long beautification project. Jan Wilkins says she’s met people who came to Berkeley Springs specifically to see that cemetery. It was once a sort-of forgotten spot, but the ladies of Foxglove began clearing out weeds, and developed projects to shore up the retaining walls on the hill, and a new walkway.
Curtin reminisced that in those early days, Foxglove members also wanted to recognize feathered friends. “They lobbied the Town of Bath for months to
One of the Foxglove Garden Club’s projects at Berkeley Springs State Park
get the town declared a bird sanctuary,” she says. “On May 18, 1977, the mayor declared the town a bird sanctuary, and Foxglove got official signs posted at each end of town. I don’t know what happened to those signs. In December, they placed a Christmas tree for the birds in the middle of their herb garden.”
Curtin has been a longtime Foxglove member, but says the members tried a variety of activities in its earlier years. “They visited kindergarten classes to talk about how plants grow, and gave children soil and marigold seeds to plant. They sent home seed packets for the children to plant in summer. They participated in Art in the Park, selling plants and herbs. Members marked Arbor Day by planting dogwoods at the Herb garden and Fairfax Green.”
Members also provided flowers and plants to those who couldn’t get out and work in gardens, working with the local nursing home and hospital extended care. They also made multiple flower arrangements for the tea held at the Berkeley Castle when the Mayor of Bath, England, visited.
Many ladies over the years joined not only for gardening advice or to help contribute to their community, but for a comradery one finds in a group of people with similar interests.
Longtime member Phyllis Hagstad says a member asked her to join many times. Hagstad had been in the Morgan
County Extension Master Gardeners for many years, and finally said yes.
“Joining a garden club was not a foreign thing to do,” she says.
Many Foxglove members are or have been Master Gardeners.
Jaanine Glasscock’s family works the land and sell produce and vegetables. She was a gardener in Shepherdstown but wanted to do something more. She became a Master Gardener to get to know the community, and was later asked by Phyllis Hagstad and another member to join Foxglove. Hagstad was her Master Gardeners teacher.
Sandra Bieber is a new member. She says she wanted to meet new people and get some expertise and exercise. “If I’m at home, I could say I’ll go out and work in my garden. But I might just sit in my recliner. If I tell people I will be at the garden at a time, I kind of have to be. It keeps me accountable and active.”
Foxglove Garden Club membership includes responsibility. Members are expected to volunteer on committees assigned to handling certain gardens, and they’re expected to put in many work hours to keep everything looking so fine.
The ladies say it’s fun to work on the different kinds of gardens and share knowledge with one another.
“Giving my time and energy to public gardening has big rewards,” adds Wilkins. “Often when I am gardening at the courthouse, passersby comment on how much they love the flowers we grow and sometimes even ask for gardening advice. We are glad to share our gardening experiences with any who are interested.”
Check out Foxglove Garden Club on Facebook.
PHOTOS BY TRICIA LYNN STRADER
The Garden Club’s herb garden
ROAD TRIP! Plan a Weekend in York
WRITTEN BY TRICIA LYNN STRADER
This South-Central Pennsylvania historic town offers a blend of rich history & culture, and breathtaking scenery. Whether it’s the great outdoors desired or diving into local history, or indulging in the area’s culinary scene, York County promises something for everyone.
York City was founded in 1741 and has American history at every turn. It played a crucial role during the Revolutionary War, even serving as the temporary capital of the Second Continental Congress. History buffs can explore the Colonial Complex, which includes the Golden Plough Tavern, General Horatio Gates House, and the Colonial Courthouse. The Articles of Confederation were drafted in York. York County History Center offers
157 West Market Street in York, Pennsylvania, stands this life-size statue of General Marquis de Lafayette.
Looking for a short-distance getaway for the weekend? YORK, PA. is just a hop and skip away.
•Connect with nature at CASTLE CREEK FARM’s lavender fields
•Take an alpaca walk at SHEAR HEAVEN FARM, perfect for kids and adults alike.
•Unwind at local favorites like GIFT HORSE BREWING COMPANY with its pet-friendly beer garden.
•Sip cocktails with city views at the GRAHAM ROOFTOP LOUNGE in the Yorktowne Hotel.
•Head to HOLLYWOOD CASINO for a night of gaming fun.
•And a whole lot more.
engaging exhibits showcasing everything from local heritage to state and national milestones. The museum was recently voted by readers of USA Today as one of the 10 Best New Museums in the U.S.
Begin exploration at History Makers Tower, where a state-of-the-art touchscreen display invites the visitor to delve into the lives of “History Makers”
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY EXPLORE YORK
In front of
A tour inside the reconstructed Colonial Courthouse tells the story of how the Second Continental Congress spent its time in York during the winter of 1777.
from all walks of life. Research the narratives within the sections titled Building, Growing, Energizing, and Making. Each section features digital towers and touchscreens to explore topics that pique one’s curiosity. Discover York County’s pivotal role in early expansion across Pennsylvania and
The Northern Central Railway of York features an ongoing schedule of scenic, themed and seasonal rides aboard historic trains .
its long-overlooked contributions to the Underground Railroad. In June, the History Center hosted A Date with History: Lafayette’s Bicentennial Ball, a commemoration of his 1825 Farewell Tour of America.
The York County Fire Museum in the historic 1903 Royal Fire House allows
visitors to see how York firefighters worked, lived and played. The building holds more than 225 years of firefighting equipment, representing 72 fire companies. Exhibits and objects on display include six fire trucks from the 1920s to the 1950s, hand-drawn pumpers, uniforms, and historic alarm systems.
Relive the glory days of yachting at the turn of the last century with Chief Uncas cruises, and a ride down the Susquehanna River. The 112-yearold electric-powered motor yacht built for beer tycoon Adolphus Busch provides spectacular views for the whole family.
A third-floor room recreates a firefighters’ dormitory, where firemen slept during their shifts. The museum is open seasonally from April to November on Saturdays only.
The Agricultural and Industrial Museum showcases vintage tractors, steam engines, and hands-on displays highlighting York County’s industrial roots. The museum is housed in a former factory complex and features two floors of exhibits highlighting 300 years of transportation and agriculture and the development of manufacturing and industry. Many of the exhibits feature hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages.
“Notable places to visit are the Susquehanna National Heritage Center where you can take a ride on the Chief Uncas (a River Discovery Boat Tour) and the Northern Central Railway of York, where you can take a variety of themed rides (on the same railroad tracks that carried Lincoln to Gettysburg for the famous address),” says Senior Marketing Manager for Explore York Andrea Ryan.
“York County is great for a long weekend getaway and offers comfortable lodging at affordable prices,” she said. “One notable place to stay is the Yorktowne Hotel. Restored to its former glory with a rooftop bar added for amazing views of the city, you can literally
park your car in the garage across the street and walk everywhere you want to go in the city. From shops to pubs and restaurants, the new history center, several other museums, mural park, and the Appell Center, there is a lot to see and do without ever getting back in your car.”
Andrea Ryan is a Pennsylvania native and chose to live and raise her family in York county. They’ve been residents for over 20 years. “I love living in York County because it’s a beautiful place filled with rolling hills, farmland, and charming towns that create a peaceful, scenic backdrop to everyday life. There are so many fun and unique things to do, from exploring local markets and historic sites to enjoying festivals, outdoor adventures, and one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants. It has that special small-town charm where people are friendly and life feels a little slower, but it still offers everything you need and want—from great schools and healthcare, to shopping and entertainment—all without the hustle and bustle of a big city.”
She says she loves going to concerts at the York Fair, America’s oldest fair, and shopping at farmers markets or dining out downtown before seeing a show at the Appell Center for the Performing Arts.
York County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With four state parks, 11 county parks, and miles of trails, it’s easy to get lost in nature. The 27-mile Heritage Rail Trail and the 201-mile Mason-Dixon Trail provide incredible opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring.
Water lovers can enjoy boating, bird watching, and fishing on the Susquehanna River, while Lake Redman and Lake Williams offer peaceful settings for kayaking and canoeing.
After a full day of fun and adventure, seek out York County’s diverse dining scene. Choose from cozy cafés or upscale farm-to-table restaurants. Some must-visit spots include Rockfish Public House with its creative entrées and an extensive raw bar, John Wright Restaurant with farm-fresh dishes with Susquehanna River views, Victor’s Italian with award-winning wine list and live jazz Fridays, or Wyndridge Farm with casual dining in a scenic outdoor setting.
York County boasts a thriving craft beverage scene. Follow Explore York’s Good Libations Trails and download the free digital passport to discover top local breweries, wineries, and distilleries.
If your thing is shop till you drop, York County offers shopping experiences for every taste. The Central Market
PHOTOS
in historic downtown is filled with handmade goods, local treats, and fresh produce. Beaver Street is lined with unique boutiques and gift shops. Antique lovers enjoy vintage stores and flea markets. Summer is prime time for farmers markets and pick-your-own fruit at local spots like Flinchbaugh’s Orchard & Farm Market, Mt. Airy Orchards, and White Clover Family Farm.
Pennsylvania’s colonial history is brought to life at Dill’s Tavern, a 200-year-old structure that has been restored to its former glory. The past is recreated with blacksmithing at a working wheelwright shop, plus grab a glimpse of period carpentry, coopering, and other activities. For more information, visit yorkpa.org. Download a visitor’s guide or ask questions at info@yorkpa.org. Call (888) 858-9675.
One-of-a-kind attractions are plenty. Take a River Discovery Boat Tour aboard the historic Chief Uncas. Ride the Northern Central Railway of York for themed excursions. Explore more than 30 large-scale murals in the vibrant Royal Square district.
Sports fans cheer on the York Revolution at WellSpan Park, home of the 2024 Atlantic League Champions. The stadium also hosts fireworks nights and family-friendly events like “Bark in the Park.”
And there really is something for everyone: Racing enthusiasts will love BAPS Motor Speedway for thrilling sprint car races.
REAL ESTATE TODAY ®
Lesley Brown
Summertime
is Melon Time
Written by Lisa McCoy
Strawberries start off the summer season but mid-to-late summer is the time to enjoy melons.
Melons are a sun-loving fruit that grow on trailing vines and grow best with warm temperatures, lots of sun, and cool nights. They belong to the gourd family which also includes cucumbers, and both summer and winter squash. Melons have a higher sugar content and are juicier because of the free water in the melons. The three most common types of melons are cantaloupe, honeydew and watermelon.
Watermelons are the most popular, accounting for 65% of melons consumed by Americans. Cantaloupes account for 25% of melon consumption followed by honeydew at 8%, and all other varieties make up the rest. Most of the melons consumed in the United States are grown domestically, but imports are capturing a growing share of the fresh melon market. Let’s explore more about these melons and how to select, store, and serve them.
Watermelons
More than 1,000 different varieties of watermelon across the world fall into four main
categories: seeded (or picnic), seedless, icebox (also called mini or personal size), and yellow/orange, which refers to the color of the flesh inside. One of the things that I disliked about watermelon when I was younger were the black seeds that you had to spit out. Today, the most popular watermelons sold in the U.S., accounting for over 90% of sales, are seedless hybrid varieties created by farmers. They still have little white “seeds” which are really empty seed coats that are safe to eat.
Watermelons vary in the color of the flesh, including the traditional red but also orange and yellow-flesh varieties. Watermelons can also vary in size, shape, and appearance. The traditional watermelon is oblong with a smooth, dark green rind and light green stripes. Heirloom varieties may feature different rind color patterns and flesh that ranges from white and yellow to red and pink. In addition to enjoying fresh, juicy watermelon on its own, it can be used in a variety of ways at mealtimes and at snacks. Watermelon is great to add to a green salad pairing it with feta cheese or tomatoes. This sweet fruit is easy
to puree to make fruit smoothies or other drinks. Some people enjoy pickled watermelon rind.
Cantaloupe and Honeydew
The American cantaloupe is technically a muskmelon. These muskmelons have an aromatic musky smell and a raised netting pattern or deep grooves on the skin. Inside is a subtly sweet orange flesh. Cantaloupes are great to add to fruit salads and desserts, and you can add herbs like mint or basil to complement the flavor. Cantaloupes also pair well with salty foods like cured meats or add a vinaigrette dressing or black pepper to enhance the flavor of the melon.
One of the sweetest melons around is the honeydew melon. This smoothskinned melon has white or green flesh, but some newer varieties may have orange or pink flesh. It lacks the aroma of the cantaloupe but makes up for it in taste. The flavors of honeydew go well with citrus, like lime, and also pair well with spicy foods. Honeydew is great in fruit salads or used in chilled soups and drinks. Add other flavors like cilantro, cucumbers, mint, or salty ham which combine well with honeydew.
Watermelon and Tomato Salad Servings:
4
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, washed
• 2 cups watermelon, washed and cut in cubes
• ½ cup fresh basil, washed and chopped
• ½ cup reduced-fat mozzarella cheese, cut in cubes
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
1. In a large bowl, add tomatoes and watermelon.
2. Add basil, cheese, lemon juice, and oil.
3. Mix to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in refrigerator before serving.
(Note: Wash melon before slicing.)
Cantaloupes and honeydews have the seeds located in the center cavity of the fruit. These seeds are edible, like pumpkin seeds, so you can roast and salt them for snacking or sprinkle them on soups and salads.
Nutritional Value of Melons
Melons are not only known for their taste but also their nutritional value. As a nutrient-dense food, they provide a significant amount of nutritional value for a low number of calories. The great thing about melons is their high-water content, generally they are 92% water and only 8% natural sugar, which lends to their low calorie, carbohydrate, and fat content. 1 cup of watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew provide 46 calories, 53 calories and 61 calories respectively.
Melons are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals, the most prominent are vitamins A and C, and potassium. Those with deep orange flesh, such as cantaloupe, are exceptional sources of beta carotene, which provide vitamin A. Cantaloupes have higher levels of vitamin A and vitamin C than honeydew. Watermelon with its red flesh contains the highest level of lycopene per serving than any other fruit or vegetable. Lycopene is an important antioxidant that may help to prevent cell damage that can lead to health concerns including heart disease, prostate cancer, sun damage, and bone fractures.
Summer Melon Cooler
Servings: 3
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cups cantaloupe, cubed
• 1 cup low-fat plain yogurt
• 1 cup orange juice
DIRECTIONS:
1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.
2. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
3. Serve chilled
OPTIONS:
(1) Try honeydew melon instead of cantaloupe.
(2) Boost the citrus flavor by adding two teaspoons of lemon or lime juice.
Recipe courtesy of Maryland WIC Cookbook
How to select, store, and serve melons
• Picking the perfect melon is more challenging when you cannot see what it looks like on the inside. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:
• Look for locally grown melons since melons do not get sweeter after they are picked. When you shop at local farmer’s markets or farm stands, you can form a relationship with the farmer and learn when they are picking their melons so you can buy them the same day they are picked.
• To judge the ripeness of a watermelon, tap it and listen for a dull “plunk” sound. No need for shaking the watermelon. Choose one that is heavy for its size, which means it will be juicier. Look for a buttery yellow underside where the watermelon touched the ground.
• For cantaloupe and honeydews, look at the blossom end and see if it “gives” to slight pressure and sniff for a strong fruity aroma.
• Select melons that are free of cracks, bruises or soft spots, and they have a clean break at the stem.
• A ripe melon will be firm with a slight softness, but not spongy.
When transporting your melons home, remember they are very perishable, and bruise easily so handle them carefully. Melons can sit at room temperature for 2 to 3 days to soften and create more juiciness. If you purchase melons that are already cut, be sure to store them in the refrigerator immediately and use them within 3 days. Store them in air-tight containers so the fragrant aroma of the
cut melon does not penetrate other foods in the refrigerator.
Before you cut into a whole melon, wash the whole fruit under cold running water. This will wash away bacteria that may be on the skin of the melon. Doing this step prevents the knife blade from carrying bacteria from the rind into the flesh. Be sure to use a sturdy knife and remove seeds and strings inside the melon. Melons can be cut into wedges, quarters, or cubes. Some people like to use a melon baller to scoop the flesh from the melon to use in fruit salads.
Summertime is a great time to enjoy melons and maybe discover a new favorite. Although watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew are the most popular, try to be adventurous and try something new like a casaba, Crenshaw, Persian or other varieties of melons. Don’t limit yourself to what you find in your local grocery store, check out your local farmers markets and farm stands to see what options they offer. If you are looking for an imported melon variety, find a local international grocery store in your area. Melons are a great way to boost your intake of healthy foods.
For more recipes and nutrition ideas, visit our Eat Smart pages at extension. umd.edu/programs/family-consumer-sciences/snap-ed/eat-smart.
Lisa McCoy is a registered dietitian at the University of Maryland Extension.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is a lifelong processs. Children tend to be so physically active and grow at such a consistent pace that it’s easier for them to consume a high-calorie diet without becoming overweight. That’s generally not the case after adolescence, and it might be particularly difficult for seniors to avoid gaining weight.
In a 2020 interview with Tufts Medicine, Jillian Reece, a bariatric dietitian at Tufts Medical Center, noted that a person’s basal metabolic rate slows downs with aging. The basal metabolic rate indicates the rate at which the body uses energy while at rest. As that rate slows down, body weight can increase. But seniors should know there is much aging adults can do to maintain a healthy weight in their golden years.
LIMIT PORTION SIZES WHEN EATING. Controlling portion sizes is easier said than done, particularly for seniors who dine out with frequency. When dining out, seniors can order off the appetizer menu instead of ordering an entrée, especially when visiting an establishment known for its hefty portions. At home, pay attention to serving size data on product labeling.
EAT BREAKFAST EACH MORNING. Seniors who skip breakfast, which may be more likely upon retiring, could be doing their waistlines a notable disservice. A 2017 statement from the American Heart Association noted that several large, long-term, prospective, observational studies have found an association between breakfast consumption and
Eating breakfast each day can help seniors achieve their goal of maintaining a healthy weight.
lower risk of obesity. The less structured pattern of retirement living may compel some seniors to skip breakfast, but committing to a morning meal can help keep off extra pounds.
COMMIT TO ROUTINE EXERCISE. Diet can go a long way toward helping seniors maintain a healthy weight. However, diet is not the only area where seniors can help their waistlines. Routine physical activity can help seniors maintain muscle mass and make it easier to be more mobile. Staying mobile can help keep pounds off, as a sedentary lifestyle is one of the more notable risk factors for overweight and obesity. The National Institute on Aging recommends seniors aim for at least 150 minutes of moderateintensity aerobic activity each week, such as walking, jogging, swimming, and cycling.
MAKE A CONCERTED EFFORT TO REMAIN HYDRATED THROUGHOUT THE DAY. The Cleveland Clinic notes that age-related body composition changes make seniors particularly vulnerable to dehydration. An aging body does not demand water like it once did, so it’s easy for seniors to forget to hydrate because they don’t feel thirsty. But remaining hydrated is important for seniors looking to maintain a healthy weight because dehydration can mimic symptoms of hunger. Seniors may reach for snacks feeling they’re hungry when all they might need is a glass of water to hydrate.
A healthy weight can allow seniors to live life to the fullest. Various strategies can help seniors achieve a healthy weight.
Activities for seniors with limited mobility
Physical activity is a valuable tool in the fight against chronic disease and other conditions. In fact, the Cleveland Clinic highlights physical activity among its nine ways to prevent disease in an effort to live a long and rewarding life.
There are many ways to exercise even if getting up and going isn’t as easy as it might have been in years past. Seniors with mobility issues can look to various forms of cardio for inspiration as they seek to be more physically active without compromising their overall health.
WALK YOUR WAY TO A HEALTHIER YOU. Walking is a form of cardiovascular exercise that is
ideal for older adults with mobility issues because it need not be physically demanding and it’s safe to walk just about anywhere. Walking in a place such as a local park can be particularly good for older adults because they can take breaks on benches if aches, pains or stiffness is affecting their ability to keep moving.
TAKE UP SWIMMING. Swimming might be tailor-made for seniors with mobility issues because it’s a great workout and exercising in water tends to be less taxing on muscles and joints. The Cleveland Clinic notes that swimming promotes heart health, strengthens the lungs, helps to burn calories, and
builds muscle, among other benefits.
USE AN EXERCISE BIKE OR PORTABLE PEDAL EXERCISER. Cycling is a wonderful exercise but one that seniors with mobility issues may feel is no longer possible. If doctors advise against riding a traditional bike, an exercise bike or portable pedal exerciser can provide many of the benefits of cycling without as great a risk for accident or injury.
Prior to beginning a new exercise regimen, seniors with mobility issues are urged to discuss activities with their physicians.
— METRO CREATIVE
– METRO CREATIVE
Common Warning Signs for Cataracts
No one wants to imagine a day when their vision might abandon them, but diminished eyesight is a common occurrence that affects people of all ages and from all walks of life. A 2022 report from the World Health Organization indicated that at least 826 million people have distance- or near-vision impairment that could be addressed with an appropriate pair of eyeglasses. Those people are among the estimated 2.2 billion people who currently have issues that affect their ability to see.
Cataracts are a common and treatable vision problem. Access to cataract treatment is limited in various countries. In fact, a 2021 study published in the journal Lancet Global Health found that 94 million people ages 50 and over have vision impairment or blindness that could be corrected through access to cataract surgery. Surgery might not even be considered if people are not first aware of the symptoms of cataracts, which can manifest in various ways.
BLURRY VISION: The American Academy of Ophthalmology notes that
blurriness may be associated with an assortment of vision problems, including cataracts. Blurry vision makes it difficult to see clearly or sharply, and cataracts are characterized by cloudiness that affects the natural lens of the eye. The blurriness associated with cataracts is the result of a breakdown of proteins in the lens of the affected eye, according to the AAO.
SEEING DOUBLE: Double vision also is symptomatic of various vision issues,
including cataracts. The AAO notes that when a person is seeing double, he or she may be seeing two, often overlapping, images of a single object.
SENSITIVITY TO LIGHT: The AAO notes a need to shield eyes from light to prevent eye pain could indicate a sensitivity to light that is characteristic of cataracts. This sensitivity may be especially noticeable when confronted by oncoming headlights at night.
DIFFICULTY SEEING AT NIGHT: The AAO reports that this symptom is often characterized by difficulty seeing in dark conditions that can make it harder to adjust to seeing when going from a welllit space into darkness. That adjustment also may take longer in people experiencing cataracts
SEEING FADED COLORS: Bright colors that appear faded or yellow is another symptom of cataracts.
Cataracts compromise vision, but it’s important that people recognize there are effective treatments for this condition. More information is available at aao.org.
METRO CREATIVE
Volunteer and Give Back this Summer
Written by Matthew Wedd
Nestled in the scenic countryside of Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, the Conococheague Institute offers a unique opportunity to step back in time—and make a difference in the present. Spanning 30 acres of preserved natural landscape and rich colonial history, this vibrant historic site relies on the passion and dedication of volunteers to bring its mission to life. Whether you’re drawn to the past through 18th-century living history, enjoy sharing knowledge as a museum docent, have a green thumb for gardening, or prefer hands-on work in site maintenance or animal care, there’s a place for everyone at the Conococheague Institute. Volunteering here isn’t just about giving time—it’s about becoming part of a community committed to education, preservation, and a deeper connection to our shared heritage.
VOLUNTEERING –WHY IT MATTERS
The Conococheague Institute has seen a surge of growth in recent years: we’ve expanded our free program hours (now full weekends, Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), installed new natural wildlife habitats, and of course, added our Animal Husbandry on the Frontier program.
We’ve also been busier than ever with field trips, hosting over 3,000 students on-site this spring alone—and
all with a small staff of just two fulltime team members and part-time paid interns. We’re able to do this thanks to the amazing impact made by our volunteers!
Each week during the spring and fall, high school students from Mercersburg Academy are on-site looking to help, and these volunteers have become an essential part of the Conococheague Institute’s success, bringing energy, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of purpose to a wide range of projects. From restoring our historic cemetery with care and respect, to
constructing secure and functional animal pastures, to keeping our miles of scenic trails clear and accessible, these young volunteers have made a lasting impact on both the site and its visitors. Their contributions help preserve the past and maintain the natural beauty of our grounds—but as summer arrives, many of these students take a well-earned break or move on to new commitments. As a result, we face a seasonal gap in support, making this the perfect time for new volunteers to step in. Whether you’re a student looking to fulfill community service
As part of the new animal husbandry initiative launched this spring, the Institute now has three Nigerian Dwarf goats and three Black Welsh Mountain sheep to care for.
A group session gets the last grass plantings in the ground.
WHICH ROLE IS RIGHT FOR ME?
People often assume volunteering at CI automatically entails wearing a tricorn hat and speaking with a British accent, but there are so many different ways you can join our team.
Visitor Center/Museum Docentry: Volunteers at the Visitor Center are the primary point of contact between CI and the public. They are responsible for maintaining/cleaning the Visitor Center, accepting payments for sales, processing memberships, answering phone queries, internal research, and interpreting the museum displays to the public. As such, a friendly and outgoing disposition is an absolute must! Customer service experience is highly recommended.
Gardens/Groundskeeping: Our Historic Garden and various nature areas require constant care throughout the year. While the garden is tended “historically” on the weekends, it can still use some extra help. Garden volunteers are great assets throughout the seasons in assisting with its maintenance. Our garden yields an incredible amount of herbs and produce, and our programming only requires so much—so volunteers who give also receive (in surplus turnips and sage!). Historic maintenance only extends so far, and for most of CI’s grounds we use mowers, leaf blowers, and chainsaws. Though volunteers in this department do require additional training to use the equipment safely, we appreciate the extra muscle!
Animal Care: With the launch of our animal husbandry initiative this spring, we now have three Nigerian Dwarf goats and three Black Welsh Mountain sheep to care for. This is a favorite area for our team right now, but we’re happy to share the fun with volunteers. Feeding and poop-scooping from the pasture doesn’t take that long—more time is spent snuggling and socializing with the animals.
hours, a retiree with time to give, or anyone in between, your help can make a meaningful difference during these busy summer months.
HOW TO VOLUNTEER
Our volunteers are managed by Kori Taber, CI’s Programs
New fence construction is underway.
and Farmstead Manager. You can contact her directly at visit@ cimlg.org, or visit our volunteer onboarding link at pointapp.org/ orgs/5516
All CI volunteers must provide appropriate background checks as required by Pennsylvania law, agree to our volunteer standards, and go through an onboarding process—after which, volunteering is simply a matter of picking the dates and roles that are right for you.
Living History: And the big one, of course! The purpose of costumed historical interpretation at CI is to educate the public about the lives, trades, and services of the civilian population in the area. During a program day, volunteers recreate 18th-century life by doing chores, hearth cooking, crafts—all while wearing historic clothes and conversing with the public. We’re lucky to have a large selection of outfits, and we’re often able to outfit volunteers from our collection.
For each volunteer role, all training is provided… so don’t worry if you’ve never started a fire with flint and steel or driven a zero-turn lawn mower before!
Matthew Wedd is executive director of The Conococheague Institute in Mercersburg.
Brendan and Bao plant a meadowtree.
Construction on a shade bridge is in progress, courtesy of Troop 199.
Leadership Washington County
A Lifelong Network of Impact
Written by Tara Bockstanz
Staying Connected Beyond Graduation Leadership Washington County (LWC) isn’t just a program—it’s a launchpad. As Director of Graduate Engagement, I’ve had the privilege of seeing how the LWC experience grows even more powerful after graduation. Our Graduate Membership program keeps alumni connected, inspired, and actively engaged in the ongoing story of leadership and community impact in Washington County.
Meaningful Opportunities for Continued Growth
Graduate Members have access to a full calendar of exclusive events—behind-the-scenes tours, panel discussions on local issues, and opportunities to build deeper connections across classes and sectors. These experiences offer continued learning, renewed inspiration, and authentic collaboration.
Beyond the events, our graduates are doers. They’re serving on nonprofit boards, mentoring current participants, and launching service projects that create lasting change. Graduate Membership isn’t just about staying in touch—it’s about staying involved.
2025 Membership Drive: Our Best Yet This year’s Graduate Membership Drive exceeded all expectations. Thanks to the generous support of our alumni, we raised over $23,000—our most successful drive to date. Huge shout
Class #38 gathers for their closing retreat.
Meg Jancuk presents a check for graduate member sponsorships.
Tara Sargent and Tara Bockstanz react to the gift.
out goes to Volvo for their remarkable $10,000 matching gift! This year we also surpassed our membership goal, reaching 215 active Graduate Members. Some standout moments from the campaign include:
• Class of 2023- #36 earned top honors for raising the most funds overall.
• Class of 2025- #38 made history with 100% class participation—the first time that’s happened since the Class of 2020-#33.
• Class of 2025-#38 also gave back in a big way, raising an additional $660 to sponsor six Priority Memberships for fellow graduates who may not have had the means to join this year.
“Elevate Your Access, Amplify Your Connection, Expand Your Network” Our membership theme perfectly captured the spirit of our graduates. Our membership tiers are designed to be accessible while also encouraging deeper investment. Starting at just $80, Graduate Members gain access to signature alumni events and exclusive networking opportunities. At higher levels, members enjoy priority registration, digital recognition, and special features in LWC publications.
No matter the level, each membership supports the continued programming and connection that make LWC so valuable long after graduation.
A Community That Lasts From Behind the Scenes tours to the annual holiday party and networking lunches, every Graduate Member event strengthens our LWC community. These are more than social gatherings—they are a celebration of leadership, a space for collaboration, and a chance to keep building a better Washington County together.
To learn more or to become a Graduate Member, visit leadershipwashingtoncounty.org/annual-lwc-membership
With LWC, graduation isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of a lifelong commitment to connection, growth, and impact.
Tara Bockstanz is the director of graduate engagement at Leadership Washington County.
Unidentified photographer.
Gisèle Freund (German, 1908–2000).
Dr. Juan Farill and Frida Kahlo in her studio at the Blue House, Coyoacán, Mexico City, n.d. Gelatin silver print. The Vicente Wolf Collection.
Art: Personal or Political?
Written by Paulette Lee
As I write this, I’m traveling in South America, even as I am working virtually for the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts as a marketing and communications consultant. Because I love art, I am always interested in visiting museums and galleries in other countries. What stands out for me here and now in particular, is the extent to which art has been and continues to be used as a political statement to oppose inequities, descry hypocrisy, honor the powerful (and win favor with them), glorify or vilify war, expose injustice, or give
an expressive space to those who are marginalized.
I’m reminded of how in my youthful anti-Vietnam War days, I had a large print of a section of Picasso’s anti-war Guernica on my living room wall. I recall being at the Detroit Institute of Arts, gazing in awe at The Detroit Industry Murals, the series of frescoes by the Mexican artist Diego Rivera; I could feel the automotive workers’ struggle amid the city’s economic troubles. More recently, in Cusco, Peru, I was riveted by the displays of art from and influenced by the tribal peoples living deep within the Amazon jungle, and in Bolivia, I was fascinated by how women artists use
traditional culture and indigenous symbology as a way of expressing their class struggles.
Because I also paint, I’m often drawn to the masters’ works to “see how they did it”, but that’s more of a dispassionate, technical interest, and I’m not particularly moved by pretty landscapes, flowers, or portraits. It’s the art that engages me emotionally or intellectually that draws me in. For me, art as politics is very personal – as it was for (speaking of Mexican artists) Frida Kahlo.
From June 14 to October 5, the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts is exhibiting Frida Kahlo: Picturing an Icon, a collection of the artist’s
Frida Kahlo, Blue House, Coyoacán, Mexico City, n.d. Gelatin silver print. The Vicente Wolf Collection.
personal photographs, taken by family members, lovers, fellow artists and friends. (All the explanatory panels will be in English and Spanish.) Kahlo kept her photos with her -- always and everywhere – pinning individual pictures to the walls and headboard when she was bed-ridden at home and entrusting the albums to her personal physician and dear friend, Dr. Leo Eloesser, when she was hospitalized. (She had more than 30 surgeries over as many years as a result of post-polio syndrome and having been in a serious bus accident in 1925, when she was 18.)
Kahlo’s physical suffering, her tumultuous relationship with Diego Rivera, whom she married twice, her own love affairs and the emotional pain of her miscarriages, are not only deeply connected to her art, but are also documented by her photographs. Her art and her photo albums are intensely personal.
The museum exhibition is organized by Vicente Wolf Associates from Vicente Wolf’s collection. In the exhibition catalogue book, Wolf writes about Kahlo’s photographs: …Her persona is more palpable through these images than through her paintings…I was amazed at how meticulously Frida crafted her own image, almost as though she were a third party to what she was looking at…She was always editing, refining her image, analyzing herself. What she wanted was for the images to stand in for her totally individualistic look. The fact that she became such an iconic image was not by chance…Frida’s paintings were created for the world, for a public audience and, hopefully, to be sold. But the collection shows a very personal view and exposes her vulnerable side… For me, these photographs are the greatest. They show the woman and the man she loved. They go beyond just pretty pictures. These are the images that truly bring Frida and Diego to life. Vicente Wolf, January 2010, NY.
Frida Kahlo’s art and photographs are intimately personal, and also profoundly political. She and Rivera were members of the Communist party, and were politically and personally close to Leon Trotsky. In fact, the chronological review of Kahlo’s life and artistic career prepared by the museum’s
curatorial department, notes that: Up until 1951 her artwork and painting technique was extremely precise, but due to her declining health and her inability to work without taking painkillers, her hands became unsteady, causing her artwork in these later years to have looser brush strokes. She was concerned about her artwork not making enough of a difference politically during this time. She helped collect a list of signatures supporting the Peace Congress, protesting against nuclear testing by “imperialist great powers”… In August of (1953), her right leg was amputated below the knee, which caused her to become deeply depressed…Her last public appearance was July 2 (1954) during a protest against the overthrow of the Guatemalan president Jacob Arbenz Guzmán. She carried a banner with a dove and peace slogan.
As I see it, art is always personal… especially when it is political.
Major funding for Frida Kahlo: Picturing an Icon has been provided by Nora & Bruce Wilder, and additional support has been provided by Visit Hagerstown & Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Paulette Lee is a former award-winning broadcast journalist and retired nonprofit and international development communications consultant.
The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, located on the lakefront in Hagerstown City Park, was established in 1931 by William H. Singer, Jr. and Anna Brugh Singer and has an extensive, world-class permanent collection of paintings, drawings, prints, and sculptures from the 15th century, (plus older Roman and Egyptian artifacts) to the present, featuring celebrated and diverse artists. Accredited by American Alliance of Museums since 1976, the Museum offers tours, classes, educational programs and community events and is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Closed Mondays and major holidays. Admission and parking are free. For more information, visit wcmfa.org.
Unidentified photographer. An adorned Frida whistles on a boat ride in Xochimilco, Mexico City. Gelatin silver print. The Vicente Wolf Collection.
On Looking at Art
How Do We More Than See?
Written by Nicole Abuhamada
The way I begin this article is not without risk—I am going to ask a question. Not one I claim to answer, but one worth asking. Let’s go on a search for understanding together, and who knows, we may be closer to an answer at the close of this brief article. Maybe. An artist once told me, artist-to-artist, that the most underrated skill artists have at their command—wait for it—is looking. The art of looking, looking deeply, looking inquisitively.
So, how does the artist “look” at a work of art, and how should we “look” at works of art? Is there a right way?
I would posit, not a right way, but better ways, certainly. When an artist is looking at a reference—perhaps a photograph or a live model, they need to see things as they are, not as they believe them to be. The difference here
can be surprising and not easily done. For instance, when painting from live models, artists are often trained to paint the negative space created by the body of the model, not focusing on the body itself. Why? We have preconceptions about how things are “supposed to” look. This affects performers too—new actors often strive to appear ‘natural’ to avoid over-dramatizations. An actor said something very wise to me that dissolved that misconception:
Life is unnatural. Just observe people for a day and pretend they are on stage. You will be blown away by the boldness of their choices.
Artists must learn to see for the first time, truthfully, and down to the detail because the truth surprises. Just as artists must train themselves to see the
world truthfully and without assumption, so too must we, as viewers, consider how we take in art—not just what we see, but how we see.
Art certainly changes the way audiences see. Russian literary theorist Viktor Shklovsky introduced the idea of “defamiliarization” (also known as “estrangement”), in his 1917 essay titled “Art as Device” (Russian: Iskusstvo kak priem). Shklovsky understood art’s critical role in making habitual experience new again, enhancing our experience of
life and deepening our understanding of what it means to be alive.
But that is only part of the inquiry…
As an audience, how are we supposed to look at art? To take it in? To let art give us an experience that will leave us forever changed, moved? Isn’t that what we came for? After all, it is possible to miss the magic—distracted, half there, missing it.
I am not sure. But I will tell you what I do know. There are competing theories and college degrees one might take to come closer to an answer, but I lean on a simple experience. Take the work in without distractions—or if you must be distracted, mindfully note how the art mingles with your preoccupations—that’s real. Read any statement by the artist, about the work itself, or themselves. Context truly does matter. Art may stand alone, but it cannot be separated from its context. So read for clues.
Give it time. Before you reach for your camera, pause—the real experience of standing before an incredible work of art for the first time can never be replicated, so do not deprive yourself of the moment.
UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS
July 3 – August 5
Denny Clarke’s Marine Scenes (opening reception July 3, 5-7 p.m.)
August 7 – September 2
Julia Purinton: We Reap What We Sow (opening reception August 7, 5-7 p.m.)
September 4 – September 30
The Art of Overcoming: Healing through Creativity (opening reception September 4, 5-7 p.m.)
October 2 - October 28
Judith E. Peck: The Gravitas of Trees & George T. Owens, Jr: Painted On (opening reception October 2, 5-7 p.m.)
October 30 - December 2
Hagerstown Photographer’s Group: Through the Lens 3 (opening reception October 30, 5-7 p.m.)
December 4 – January 6
Annual Community Art Show: The Best Local Art of 2025 (opening reception December 4, 5-7 p.m.)
Photos should be used to gently remind, never to capture. And if you can take a photo, challenge yourself to behave as though you will never come back to it, because the truth is you don’t really know that you will! Anchor yourself to that moment, with that work of art—because that may be all you ever truly take with you. Art lives on in the heart and soul.
This lesson came to me unexpectedly on a trip to Japan for the Setouchi Triennial art festival. Cameras are not permitted in most of the exhibits, so viewers must absorb the work of art in the moment, then leave them behind forever. Many of the exhibits are gone after a season. Viewing art like this will change your life.
Join us at the Washington County Arts Council, and we will learn to look— together. And maybe, if we are open to them, have experiences with art that will forever change us.
Amazing things are happening worldwide in art right now—the Setouchi Triennale annual art festival has revitalized abandoned islands in Japan where
illegal industrial waste dumping has transformed into sculptural installations that draw international audiences, all in the transcendent hands of visionary artists. The Washington County Arts Council is taking note of these cultural breakthroughs, and others like them, because art is not just a cultural phenomenon, art is a movement, and art is for all of us. To get involved with the local art scene, you need only to reach out to us at 301-791-3132, find us online at washingtoncountyarts.com, or email me at nicolea@ washingtoncountyarts.com.
See you at the Washington County Arts Council!
Nicole Abuhamada is the executive director of the Washington County Arts Council.
Balancing the Budget and the Bucket List
Personal Finance Meets Leisure
Written by Jacob W. Barr
In today’s fast-paced world, achieving a balance between financial responsibility and enjoying life’s pleasures has become both a challenge and a priority. Personal finance isn’t just about saving money and planning for retirement anymore, it’s also about making room for the things that bring joy, relaxation, and fulfillment. Whether it’s travel, hobbies, entertainment, or simply spending quality time with loved ones, leisure plays a crucial role in overall well-being. But how do we fund those moments without compromising our long-term financial health? The answer lies in strategic planning, mindful spending, and redefining how we view both money and leisure.
The Value of Leisure
First, it’s important to acknowledge that leisure isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Numerous studies have shown that engaging in leisure activities reduces stress, improves mental health, boosts creativity, and increases productivity. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a yoga class, or a creative hobby like painting or writing, leisure enriches our lives in ways that money alone cannot.
Yet for many, leisure is often pushed aside in favor of financial obligations. Rent, debt payments, savings goals, and day-to-day expenses can make spending
on non-essentials feel irresponsible. But when viewed through the lens of overall life satisfaction, leisure is a vital part of personal finance, not separate from it.
Budgeting for Joy
The key to incorporating leisure into your financial life is to plan for it, just as you would for a utility bill or emergency fund. A simple method is the 50/30/20 rule: 50% of your income goes to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings and debt repayment. That 30% for “wants” is your leisure lifeline. It includes everything from vacations and dining out to movie nights and new hobbies.
Creating a “fun fund” or a specific leisure budget category ensures that you can enjoy life guilt-free. Knowing you’ve set aside money for enjoyment helps you spend with intention rather than on impulse. The key is to adapt the framework to match your lifestyle and values.
Leisure Without the Price Tag
Financial constraints don’t have to mean a leisure-free life. In fact, some of the most rewarding leisure activities are low-cost or even free. Consider exploring local parks, attending community events, reading, volunteering, or pursuing DIY projects at home. Many cities offer free concerts, museum days, and cultural festivals. Public libraries often host workshops and events that are educational
and entertaining.
Learning to enjoy leisure without spending excessively is not only good for your wallet but also encourages creativity and mindfulness. It shifts the focus from consumption to experience.
Travel Smarter, Not Harder
Travel is one of the most desired and expensive forms of leisure. But with smart planning, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Use fare alert tools to find the best deals on flights, travel in off-peak seasons, and consider alternative accommodations like vacation rentals such as Airbnb.
Set up a travel savings account and contribute to it regularly. Even $50 a month can add up to $600 a year — enough for a weekend getaway or to offset flight costs. Consider travel rewards credit cards if you’re disciplined about paying off your balance each month, as they can help accumulate points for future trips.
Financial Wellness and Lifestyle Design
Modern personal finance isn’t just about how much you save, it’s about how you spend and why. Lifestyle design, a concept popularized by productivity and finance influencers, emphasizes aligning your spending with your values. If leisure and life experiences matter to
you, then it’s perfectly valid, even wise, to prioritize them financially.
Ask yourself: What brings you the most joy? Is it exploring new places, investing time in a passion project, or just having the freedom to do nothing on a Sunday afternoon? Design your financial plan around those answers.
This might mean cutting back in areas that don’t bring value such as unused subscriptions, frequent takeout, or retail therapy and reallocating that money toward leisure that truly enhances your life.
Avoiding the Debt Trap
While enjoying life is important, it’s equally vital to avoid financing fun with debt. High-
interest credit card balances or loans for luxury experiences can quickly turn leisure into a longterm burden. Instead, use leisure as a motivator for disciplined saving. Create short-term goals like “save $1,000 for a beach vacation” or “set aside $200 for a summer festival” and track your progress.
Avoid the trap of “I deserve this” spending, a common justification for impulsive purchases. Instead, reframe it as “I deserve to enjoy my life in a way that doesn’t compromise my future.”
A Balanced Life is a Rich Life
Personal finance is not about deprivation; it’s about choice. It’s about creating a life where you’re not only financially secure but also emotionally fulfilled. When you bud-
get wisely, spend intentionally, and plan with purpose, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: financial stability and a leisure-rich lifestyle. So, whether you’re booking your dream vacation, signing up for that pottery class, or simply taking a day off to relax, remember, you’re not being indulgent. You’re investing in your quality of life. And that, ultimately, is what money is for.
W. Barr, AAMS, is a financial advisor at Raymond James Financial Services, 140 Paul Smith Blvd. in Hagerstown.
The foregoing information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete, it is not a statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision, and it does not constitute a recommendation. Any opinions are those of Jacob Barr and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Every investor’s situation is unique, and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance and time horizon before making any investment. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.
Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Ark Financial Advisors is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services
Jacob
