Issuu

C O M P L I M E N TA R Y

MARYL AND

P E N N S Y LVA N I A

WEST VIRGINIA | WINTER 2026

PART OF THE USA TODAY NETWORK

UPGRADE TIPS FOR YOUR HOME DESIGN IDEAS SET IN STONE

PLUS: NORDIC ART SHOW AVOIDING FOOD WASTE AND MORE

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inside 8

A HERALD-MAIL MEDIA PUBLICATION

Volume 13, Issue 1 ISSUE EDITOR

Glenn Garvie DESIGN EDITORS/LAYOUT

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

Jacob W. Barr, Tara Bockstanz, Lauren Beuchmann, Lisa McCoy, Bailey Rafter, Matthew Wedd ADVERTISING DESIGN

Gannett Creative Solutions ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Dawn Gessel ADVERTISING SALES

AT THE LIBRARY

HEALTH + WELLNESS

Beyond Books: Exploring Our New Library of Things

HOME IMPROVEMENT

8 10

Resilient Home Upgrades Set on Stone: An On-Trend Guide to Regional Aesthetics and Durable Design

Tips to Reduce Food Waste

COMMUNITY

Discover How Leadership Washington County Can Shape Your Impact

Restoring the Wild Heart of the Frontier: Community-Powered Conservation You Can Bring Home

AT HOME PLACES is published five times a year, featuring Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn and Holiday issues. Complimentary copies are available at area distribution sites. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BY COPYRIGHT. Prices, specials and descriptions are accurate as of the time of publishing. This magazine or parts thereof may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the editor. Advertising information has been provided by the advertiser. Herald-Mail Media does not make any representations as to the opinions or facts contained herein. All terms and conditions subject to change. The cover, design, format and layout of this publication are trademarks of Herald-Mail Media. To advertise in the next issue of At Home Places, contact your Herald-Mail Media sales representative, hmadvertisingstaff@localiq.com

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Wintering Well: Nordic Lessons for a Beautiful Soulful Home

C O M P L I M E N TA R Y

MARYL AND

P E N N S Y LVA N I A

WEST VIRGINIA | WINTER 2026

PART OF THE USA TODAY NETWORK

MIND YOUR MONEY

Budget-Friendly Winter Holiday Activities That Bring Big Joy

UPGRADE TIPS FOR YOUR HOME DESIGN IDEAS SET IN STONE

ON THE COVER: Even if the weather outside is frightful, planning home upgrades can prove to be insightful. PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

PLUS: NORDIC ART SHOW AVOIDING FOOD WASTE AND MORE

Watch for our SPRING ISSUE coming to your location in March. 4 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026

AT THE LIBRARY

Beyond Books Exploring Our New Library of Things Written by Lauren Buechmann

6 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026

The Library of Things will continue to grow based on your feedback. As we build this collection, we invite you to suggest items you’d love to borrow. What would help you learn something new? What tools would support your next project or event? Your ideas will shape a resource that reflects the creativity, curiosity, and diverse interests of our community. Whether you’re fixing, playing, experimenting, or simply trying something for the fun of it, the Library of Things opens the door to countless new experiences. We can’t wait

for you to explore, discover, and imagine—in ways that go far beyond books.

Lauren Buechmann is the head of public relations and marketing at the Washington County Free Library.

GETTY IMAGES

he library has always been a place to discover stories, explore ideas, and spark creativity. Now, with the launch of our new Beyond Books: A Library of Things, we’re excited to offer even more ways for our community to learn, try, and experience something new. Beyond Books is a unique collection of useful, fun, and surprising items that you can borrow just like you would a traditional library book. Whether you’re tackling a household project, planning a family night, or trying out a new hobby, the Library of Things makes it easy to get started. Our growing collection aims to include items such as: Recreation and outdoor items: Games, kits, and gear for all ages Home improvement and DIY tools: Complete small projects without the cost of buying new equipment Technology and gadgets: Hotspots, projectors, and more for everything from presentations to movie nights But the best part? This collection was designed with our community in mind. We know that trying something new can sometimes feel expensive, inconvenient, or overwhelming. By offering access to items that might otherwise be used only once or twice, we hope to reduce barriers and encourage exploration. Want to see if birdwatching is your next big hobby? Borrow binoculars for the weekend. Planning a backyard party? Check out lawn games or a portable speaker. Curious about sewing, photography, or crafting? Try a tool or kit before deciding whether it’s right for you.

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

Family Features

an era when extreme weather events are increasingly common, resilient home upgrades are now more of a necessity than a luxury. Homeowners and builders alike are seeking materials that can withstand harsh conditions while maintaining high-end aesthetics. 8 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026

This shift is driven by not only the need to protect homes from severe weather and reduce long-term maintenance costs, but also to create seamless indoor-outdoor design continuity. In fact, indoor-outdoor coherent design is a top outdoor living trend, according to nearly 80% of design experts surveyed by the Brick Industry Association. Furthermore, Zillow data found eco-friendly, resilient surfaces can boost a home’s

resale value by up to 2.8%. To improve your home’s ability to stand up to harsh weather, pests and more while enhancing curb appeal, consider these low-maintenance, long-lasting upgrade ideas from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products, a leader throughout North America in the innovation, design and production of exterior and interior building products.

WESTLAKE ROYAL BUILDING PRODUCTS

Resilient Home Upgrades

HOME IMPROVEMENT Protect Your Home from Above

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Investing in storm-resistant roofing materials can reduce the risk of damage during severe weather events. Modern roofing solutions are designed to withstand high winds, heavy rain and even hail, providing peace of mind and long-lasting protection.

Incorporate Durable, Lasting Beauty

Siding plays a vital role in protecting your home from extreme weather, ground contact and insect damage while contributing to its aesthetic appeal. Durable siding solutions, such as TruExterior poly-ash siding, crafted from a blend of fly ash and polymers, provides the aesthetic of real wood with enhanced durability and performance. With a range of profiles - board and batten, nickel gap, channel, channel bevel and shiplap - it can be cut, milled, glued, stained and painted, catering to diverse design preferences and various architectural styles. Or for a rich, authentic stone appearance without added installation time, consider Versetta Stone siding. Bold and neutral tones allow for a variety of design styles, from modern to timeless, in traditional, quarried stone and rugged, irregular profiles. Its panelized format hangs with screws for easier, faster installation compared to traditional masonry.

Upgrade Windows and Doors

Modern windows and doors are designed with advanced materials and technologies, such as impact-resistant glass and reinforced frames, that enhance their resilience. Highquality, storm-resistant windows and doors can prevent water infiltration, withstand high winds and provide security against break-ins. They not only improve safety but can also help improve energy efficiency and reduce noise.

Keep Water and Pests Out

Trim is an often-overlooked component when it comes to protecting your home from water infiltration and pests. Elevate your exterior with the timeless look of painted wood - without the cracks, warping or constant repainting - with an option like Kleer PVC trim. With its tongue-and-groove design, it’s suitable for modern or traditional styles and ideal for high-traffic or moisture-prone areas. It replicates the warmth and character of real wood, but is engineered to resist moisture, termites, dirt and UV damage, keeping your home looking fresh year after year.

Additionally, architectural PVC trim and mouldings from the Grove Collection come in six colors including American walnut, oak ridge, natural cedar, smoke grey, weathered oak and charred timber, allowing for customization to match the architectural style of outdoor living spaces, porch ceilings, soffits and more. Low-maintenance, long-lasting and moisture- and insect-proof, the column wraps slip over existing columns with a hidden, color-matched fastening system that enhances curb appeal.

Maintain Your Home’s Structural Integrity

Proper drainage prevents water from pooling around the foundation, which can lead to serious damage over time. Installing a well-designed drainage system - complete with gutters, downspouts and drainage tiles built to withstand heavy rainfall - ensures water flow is efficiently directed away from your home, helping protect it from potential issues.

AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026 9

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Set on Stone An on-trend guide to regional aesthetics and durable design Family Features

10 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026

WESTLAKE ROYAL BUILDING PRODUCTS

anufactured stone veneer (MSV) brings timeless design to any space, but it’s far from “one size fits all.” Styles, colors and texture preferences often vary by geography, climate and architectural tradition. Today, homeowners, builders and designers alike are increasingly drawn to regionally inspired looks that complement local landscapes and home styles. As trends evolve, MSV has risen in popularity for its versatility and ability to reliably embody authentic regional materials. The styles that dominated a few years ago have shifted, giving way to fresh combinations of palettes and textures. Selecting the right stone allows projects to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, enhancing both curb appeal and resale value. Regional architecture can serve as a helpful guide, whether your inspiration comes from coastal cottages, Southwestern adobes, New England farmhouses or Midwest craftsman homes. While some homeowners use quarried natural stone to achieve the look they desire, MSV offers a cost-effective alternative with serious durability and minimal maintenance. With consistent quality, easy installation and a wide range of options, Westlake Royal Stone Solutions’ multiple product lines make it simple to achieve authentic, regionally inspired designs. The Eldorado Stone collection, for instance, features everything from coral stone and rustic fieldstone to meticulously handcrafted brick, wood-look textures and more.

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AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026 11

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Practical Tips for Choosing Stone Veneer MSV can add eye-catching ambiance to your home, whether you’re using it inside or out, for a big statement or subtle accent. It’s a popular choice due to its durability and affordability. MSV also comes in a range of options, making it easy to find a match for your home’s design.

• Look at nearby historic and new • Consider how your selection

will integrate with your home’s complementary materials, such as brick, siding, exposed wood or trim, and colors.

• Work with local dealers or design

professionals to help you pinpoint region-specific recommendations.

12 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026

materials. Decor leans toward rustic or country with touches that elicit a feeling of comfort and relaxation. Neutral or mixedtone fieldstones and contemporary stacked stone profiles are particularly popular for both interior and exterior elements of craftsman or transitional homes. Southwest: Contrary to the perception of a drab brown desert, local geography lends character to design with vibrant earthy palettes. Natural woodwork textures that contrast with rustic features like metals create a distinctive aesthetic. Lighter, sandy hues of stonework and smooth or elongated profiles that reflect desert landscapes and Spanish-influenced architecture are common among Southwest homes. West Coast: Further west, you’ll see a transition from warm, desert-inspired neutrals to cooler, ocean-like tones. Architecture leans toward modernism with a casual, relaxed vibe. Designs that promote a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living are common. Complementing organic wood and natural textile selections are often modern, linear styles with cooler neutrals and greige palettes for clean, coastal or urban designs.

WESTLAKE ROYAL BUILDING PRODUCTS

builds to guide your palette and profile selection.

Whether you’re looking to embrace styles from your own region or draw inspiration from another part of the country, these insights can help you craft a design aesthetic that feels both current and connected. Northeast: Aesthetics tend toward warmth with neutral colors and natural materials that reflect the coastal geography and design elements that echo the local environment. Natural materials like wood and stone are common, as are distressed or weathered looks that lend an antique or vintage feel. When it comes to stonework, in this region you can expect to find an array of cool grays, ledgestone profiles and rugged textures echoing historic masonry. Southeast: The timeless charm of a Southern home blends numerous elements to create a look that is inviting but still traditional. Symmetrical facades, architectural details like porches or columns and rich wood accents are popular choices, as are earthy tones, brick and wood accents. Stone aesthetics lean toward warmer earth tones and tumbled looks that complement brick blends and traditional styles. Midwest: Look for simple designs with clean edges, neutral tones and natural

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AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026 13

HEALTH + WELLNESS

Tips to Reduce Food Waste Written by Lisa McCoy

14 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026

Checking dates on canned food is a good practice, but this date indicates when the food inside may no longer be at “top quality” for color, taste, and freshness. The food is still edible after this date. things to consider to reduce food waste in your household.

Plan Ahead

The first step is planning. Plan your meals for the week and check to see what you have in your pantry, refrigerator, and freezer. You can incorporate them into the meals and avoid buying foods you do not need. Keeping an organized pantry and refrigerator/freezer helps you to see what you have on hand. Practice the method of FIFO (First In First Out) so you will not have older items pushed to the back and become inedible. Make a shopping list so you have a plan when you get to the store and avoid impulse buying. Add foods that you need for weekly meals and snacks. Try to purchase only the amount of fresh fruit and vegetables that you and your family can eat in the next week. Meats, seafood, poultry, and dairy products are perishable as well so limit how much you buy and freeze, if possible, if you cannot use them in the next week or so. Plan for leftovers in your menu planning, like leftover Wednesday. Leftovers make great lunches the next day or re-create them into a new meal such as soups, salads, sandwiches, or casseroles. For food safety, use cooked leftovers within 4 days. If you cannot use them, consider freezing them and use within the next 3 months. Be sure to label and date foods put in the freezer. Soups are great way to use produce that is not fresh but still edible. You may consider

putting veggies in the freezer to use for homemade vegetable soup. Fruits that are overripe, like bananas, are great to freeze and then add to smoothies.

Shop Smart

Let’s start with some simple tips when shopping for food. Follow your list to prevent buying more food than your family can eat. It is better to buy smaller quantities of produce and shop more frequently to avoid wasting food. Be cautious about foods in bulk packaging – it may save you money, but can you use it before it goes bad? Consider splitting the package with a friend or freezing half to use later. Pay attention to “sell by” and “best by” dates. You may find bargains on perishables with “sell by” dates since the store cannot sell past that date. It is a great bargain if you can use it within a few days or so. Non-perishable items may be less expensive if you buy in bulk but make sure it is something you use regularly. Check out “Understanding food labels” in this article to understand how to use these labels to get the most out of your food. Do you spend time picking out the perfect apple or tomato? Instead of shopping for the “perfect produce”, consider buying ones that have a few imperfections that can be cut out and still taste the same. Sometimes, these “ugly” product costs less. Look for produce that is still edible and decide how you can use them in your meals. If produce is not purchased in the grocery store, it is likely to end up in the landfill.

GETTY IMAGES

an you imagine cutting your yearly food budget by $2,000 or more? A family of four averages a loss of $1,365 – $2,275 every year due to food waste. Most people don’t realize how much food gets thrown away – uneaten leftovers, spoiled fruits and vegetables, uneaten food at restaurants and food loss at retailers and farmers. It all adds up to 40% of all food produced in America goes uneaten. Most of this food ends up in landfills or down the drain to the sewer system. Foods that end up in landfills create harmful methane gas, which is a major component of global warming. Only about 4% of uneaten food is composted. Food waste is not a new issue; it has been around for centuries in America. In the 1980’s, interest in sustainable living directed towards food production, consumption, and waste brought a new light to this subject. People were concerned about the effects of food waste on the environment as well as the economic impact. A new law was passed that protected people and organizations from liability when donating food to help those in need. Another focus during this time was turning food waste into compost as an alternative to landfills. This interest led the way to new regulations, laws, and technology to tackle this enormous issue Food waste occurs at every stage of food production and use, from farmers to distributors to retailers and to consumers. It may surprise you that approximately 133 billion pounds of food is wasted each year. Food waste means wasted money. Food waste impacts not only personal finance but also the loss of water, energy, and labor used to produce that food. Ten years ago, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a national goal to reduce food loss and waste in the U.S. by 50% by 2030. We have a long way to go to achieve that goal in the next 5 years. Consumers play a large role in this issue so it takes everyone to do their part. Here are some

HEALTH + WELLNESS Store Safely

Once you get the food home, it is up to you to store it properly to extend its shelf life and keep it safe. Here are some tips to help you: • If you purchase food in bulk, be sure you have the correct containers to store them safely in the refrigerator, freezer, or pantry. • Store meat and dairy products in the back of the refrigerator where it is colder.

UNDERSTANDING FOOD LABELS One of the biggest reasons for food waste is the confusion about food labeling. Food date labels are not indicators of food safety and are not required by Federal law. Manufacturers provide dating to help consumers and retailers decide when food is of peak quality. Listed below are common labels found on foods and what they mean. Overall, these dates are guidelines, except for “expiration dates”. If the food has been properly handled and stored, consuming it a few days after the date should be fine. If a food appears to have a change in texture, color, or smell or has not been cooked or stored properly, avoid eating it. SELL BY - This date is strictly for grocery stores to tell them when to remove the product from their shelves. Often milk and yogurt are still safe to consume for 5-7 days after this date. Eggs can be consumed 3-5 weeks after the sell by date. BEST BY - This date indicates when this food may no longer be at “top quality” for color, taste, and freshness. The food is still edible after this date. If it is sealed well in its original container and stored properly, it can be eaten many weeks after this date. EXPIRATION DATE - These are the only dates that refer to when food products should no longer be consumed. Expiration dates are required by law for infant formulas.

• To allow for proper airflow, do not overpack your refrigerator or freezer. • Store fruits and vegetables separate from meat and poultry to prevent cross-contamination. Some fruits and vegetables emit ethylene gas, which speeds ripening of produce. Examples of ethylene producers include apples and ripe bananas. Using your refrigerators separate drawers for fruits and vegetables allows you to control the humidity for best storage. Produce particularly suited for storage in a high-humidity drawer include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, cauliflower, green onions, strawberries, and leafy greens. • Wash fresh produce just before preparation to maximize storage time and safety. However, if you find that fresh produce goes to waste, wash and cut it, place it in containers, and then store it in the refrigerator immediately after purchase. • Do not store food on the floor to prevent pests from getting into food. To help you keep track of best food storage practices, download the Food Keeper App from USDA at foodsafety.gov/keep/foodkeeperapp/index.html. This website and app share the best way to store different foods and how long they can be stored. You can even put reminders on your calendar to use purchased foods before they go bad.

Compost

No matter how hard we try, we will have some food left over that needs to be thrown away. Before throwing it into a landfill, consider composting the unused food. Compost can be used to fertilize your garden and to improve your soil. Most food items can be safely composted at home, including those that are already moldy. Composting is a great way to mix food scraps and yard waste into a nutrient-rich addition for your soil. It will help reduce the amount of food waste going to landfills, enrich your garden and houseplants, and reduce your carbon footprint. Check with your Master Gardener program through The University of Maryland Extension or watch this easy “Composting 101” YouTube found at extension.umd.edu/ locations/charles-county/master-gardener/ composting.

Garden Vegetable Soup Servings: 6 Ingredients: • Non-stick cooking spray • 2 carrots, washed and sliced • 1 small onion, chopped • 1 clove garlic minced or ¼ teaspoon garlic powder • 3 cups low-sodium broth (beef, chicken, or vegetable) • 1 cup green cabbage, washed and chopped • 1 (14 ounce) can green beans, no salt added, rinsed and drained • 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning • 1 zucchini, washed and chopped Directions: 1. In a large sauce pan sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, cook the carrot, onion, and garlic over low heat for 5 minutes. 2. Add broth, cabbage, green beans, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning; bring to a boil. 3.Cover, lower heat. Simmer about 15 minutes or until carrots are tender. 4. Stir in zucchini and heat for 6 to 8 minutes. Serve hot. 5. Refrigerate leftovers. Note:For step-by-step instructions on how to prepare this recipe, visit the blog at eatsmart.umd.edu/recipe/ garden-vegetable-soup

Lisa McCoy is a registered dietitian at the University of Maryland Extension. AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026 15

COMMUNITY

Class #39 poses during Education Day

Discover How Leadership Washington County Can Shape Your Impact Written by Tara Bockstanz

Leadership Washington County approaches its 40th Anniversary, we’re looking for exceptional applicants who are ready to learn, connect, and make meaningful change in our community. If you’ve been thinking about applying, 2026 could be your year! In Washington County, true leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about transformation. Leadership Washington County (LWC) exists to cultivate that kind of leadership: inspiring

16 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026

Take Pride in Washington County Our county is rich in history, talent, and opportunity—but it also faces real-world challenges. LWC gives participants an inside look at the issues shaping our community, from education and healthcare to business growth and social services. By engaging directly with community leaders and organizations, participants gain a deeper appreciation for how the county functions and where it needs innovative thinking. Many alumni describe the program as an eye-opening experience that helped them see Washington County in a new light—with renewed pride in its potential and their role in helping it thrive. PROVIDED BY LEADERSHIP WASHINGTON COUNTY

Class #39 at a session at Meritus Medical School

individuals who are ready to learn, connect, and make meaningful change where they live and work. Through diverse experiences, thought-provoking discussions, and access to local decision-makers, LWC gives participants the tools and perspective to understand both the strengths and challenges of our region. If you’ve ever felt called to make a difference, LWC offers the perfect place to begin. It’s the only program dedicated to uncovering what makes Washington County unique—and what’s possible when passionate people step up to take pride, take part, and take the lead.

COMMUNITY Take Part and Build Connections Leadership Washington County is more than a leadership class—it’s a launchpad for engagement. The program connects participants with business leaders, nonprofits, and public officials who are actively working to improve our community. Throughout the program year, participants build relationships, share ideas, and explore practical ways to be part of the solution. LWC alumni often go on to serve on local boards, volunteer with nonprofits, or collaborate on new community projects. This is a program for people who want to move from awareness to action—people who believe that leadership means showing up, listening, and doing the work that matters. Take the Lead in Your Career and Community Graduates of LWC are found leading across every sector—serving as elected officials, nonprofit directors, business owners, and advocates. Together, they form a dynamic network of leaders who care deeply about Washington County’s success. Becoming part of LWC means investing in yourself as much as your community. You’ll grow as a leader, expand your network, and gain

insights into how to create positive, lasting change. The experience challenges participants to think differently, collaborate across industries, and lead with purpose. Who Should Apply If you live or work in Washington County and feel a pull to give back, LWC was designed for you. This isn’t a traditional leadership seminar—it’s a journey into the heart of community service and civic engagement. Class #39 tours brand-new Bowman Participants come from every Training Center on Northern Ave. background: business, education, government, healthcare, and beyond. open on February 2, 2026. To apply please What they share is a desire to move from good intentions to meaningful impact. Whether you’re visit https://leadershipwashingtoncounty.org/ program/apply or email info@leadershipwashlooking to broaden your network, deepen your ingtoncounty.org prior to February 2nd and we community understanding, or simply get more will notify you when applications open. involved, LWC offers the platform to do it. Take Action Leadership Washington County isn’t just a program—it’s a promise to help shape the future of our community. Be part of the movement to take pride, take part, and take the lead in Washington County. Applications for the Class of 2027 – #40

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

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Embracing individual needs with love, kindness, and compassionate care while creating meaningful end-of-life experiences for our patients and families.

Call Anytime: (301) 791-6360 • www.hospiceofwc.org AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026 17

COMMUNITY

Improving a barren space at the Institute is the task at hand.

Restoring the Wild Heart of the Frontier Community-Powered Conservation You Can Bring Home Written by Matthew Wedd

PROVIDED BY THE CONOCOCHEAGUE INSTITUTE

isitors often come to the Conococheague Institute for its historic cabins, winding trails, and quiet pastoral charm. Yet just beyond the interpreted 18th-century homestead lies one of the site’s most valuable assets: our wetlands, a living system that quietly filters water, shelters wildlife, and sustains the ecological story of this landscape. Over the past few years, we’ve made a commitment to elevate our natural resources to the same standard as our historical ones. Today, with the help of students, volunteers, and supporters across the region, that commitment is flourishing in ways that are already visible on the ground and ripe for replication at your home! A Great Blue Heron stops by The Conococheague Institute. 18 AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026

COMMUNITY Reviving an Overworked Wetland

PROVIDED BY THE CONOCOCHEAGUE INSTITUTE

Like many wetlands across the mid-Atlantic, ours has been stressed by sediment and nutrient runoff from surrounding agricultural land. The symptoms such as seasonal algae blooms, murky water, and reduced biodiversity, are clear signs of a system trying to keep up with more than it can handle. In response, our upcoming Wetlands Pond Improvement & Monitoring Project is designed to restore both beauty and balance. Work begins in spring 2026 with the installation of a solar-powered RPS F200 aerator fountain at the pond’s center. While its gentle spray adds visual movement to the landscape, its true value is ecological: increased oxygen near the surface deters algae spread, improves water clarity, and helps native aquatic plants thrive. At the pond’s inflow point, we’re adding another essential tool: sediment and nutrient filter socks. Acting as the wetland’s “first line of defense,” they capture sediment, fertilizers, and other runoff before they reach the open water. We’ll be combining these tools with annual stocking of native fish species, so the pond becomes its own self-maintaining system: fish feeding naturally on algae and algae-promoting invertebrates while boosting wetland biodiversity from the bottom of the food chain upward. This project, generously funded by the Thomas G. & Nancy H. Burkey Fund of the Franklin County Community Foundation, was researched by our Iowa State University summer intern, Ellen Hake. It will be installed and monitored with the help of students from Mercersburg Academy, who will conduct ongoing water testing and equipment checks as part of their hands-on conservation training.

dent volunteers leading the project, we planted 300 native plants from trusted nurseries including The Native Niche and Schott’s. But this wasn’t just beautification. It was an ecological strategy. Native plants support pollinators, host beneficial insects, stabilize soil, and provide the food and cover needed by local bird species. For new or casual birders, the wetlands area can feel dense and overwhelming, so by increasing plant biodiversity (and therefore insect activity), birds become easier to observe along the edges. A new interpretive panel lists common and seasonal birds spotted on site, helping visitors make sense of the avian flurry around them. A Green Heron perches nearby. Every element of this wetland restoration involves student volunteers. Under guidance from CI staff, students gain experience in water quality testing, data tracking, habitat maintenance, and the practical science behind ecological restoration. Their involvement ensures more than just continuity for the project, it invests the next generation with the tools to care for the landscapes they will someday inherit.

Native Habitat Restoration Around the Wetlands

Our commitment to ecological revitalization extends beyond the pond itself. With the support of a South Mountain Partnership MiniGrant, CI recently transformed two key areas of our property into vibrant native plant habitats: a birding garden around the wetlands and a native welcome garden at our Visitor Center. With stu-

What You Can Do at Home

The work at CI reflects the growing awareness that conservation is not limited to large landscapes or professional land managers. The principles applied can be brought to backyards, balconies, and school grounds across our region: Plant native. Even a few native plants can support pollinators, birds, and soil health. Create small wetland helpers. Rain gardens, mini-ponds, and runoff filter plantings reduce sediment and nutrient flow into local waterways. Support biodiversity. Avoid pesticides when possible, leave some leaf litter, and provide habitat layers: ground cover, shrubs, and canopy. Get young people involved. Children who plant a tree or test a water sample develop a personal stake in conservation that lasts a lifetime.

A Living Landscape, Shared by All

At the Conococheague Institute, history and nature are not separate chapters, they’re a continuous story told through stewardship. By restoring our wetlands, expanding native habitats, and involving our community at every step, we’re ensuring that this land remains vibrant, resilient, and educational for generations to come. And perhaps more importantly, we hope it inspires others to take small steps toward conservation in their own ‘At Home Places’! To learn more, request our native planting lists and guides, or support our efforts, visit cimlg.org, contact info@cimlg.org or call 717-328-2800.

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

Ellen fights a losing battle skimming algae. AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026 19

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

Wintering Well: Nordic Lessons for a Beautiful, Soulful Home

Written by Bailey Rafter

hen winter settles in and daylight slips away before most of us have even finished work, it’s natural to start dreaming of somewhere warmer, brighter, easier. Many of us instinctively long to escape the season. But in Scandinavia, especially in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, people did something quite different. They couldn’t all flee winter — they designed for it. In the Nordic countries, winter is not a phase. It is a defining presence. Darkness stretches for hours, snow settles like a second skin over the land, and color outside can fade into a palette of whites, grays, and blues. And yet, when you step inside a traditional Scandinavian home or look at the art created during that period, you don’t find dullness or scarcity. You find bright whites contrasted with warm woods, furniture painted in bright reds, deep blues, golden ochres, and folkloric carvings, and thick insulating tapestries enriched with runic symbols and myth-laden imagery. These homes were not neutral or understated, which readers may associate with contemporary Scandinavian design. They glowed. The upcoming exhibition The Scandinavian Home: Art and Identity, 1880–1920, opening Feb. 7 at the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, captures this sense of home in two ways—through dazzling paintings that bring you into the snowbound landscape and the otherworldly light from a sun that barely crests the horizon, and through objects and furnishing that reflect both international and regional traditions reflecting both a sense of home and homeland The paintings alone are enough to challenge the modern stereotype of Scandinavian minimalism. Instead of pale understatement, you see sparkling winter landscapes, radiant summer days drenched in gold, emerald spring forests, and autumn scenes as deep and warm as mulled

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“Sunset in Värmland” (c. 1900) by Otto Hesselbom (Swedish, 1848–1913). Oil on canvas. Collection of David and Susan Werner, Courtesy of The Frick Pittsburgh. wine. Nature, shown season by season, becomes less a background and more a beloved character. During this period, Scandinavians faced rapid industrial change just like the rest of Europe, and like other countries turned back to what felt like a more authentic expression of material culture— the handmade, the local, and the traditional. They believed that beauty built into everyday life made people kinder, more resilient, and more connected to one another. It was, in a sense, home improvement as soul-craft.

Inside these homes, objects often reflected history, usefulness, personal meaning, and trending preferences of the era. A simple carved chest could hold three generations of stories. A painted chair might carry flowers from a local meadow, a mythic creature, or even a protective symbol. In this way, home was not merely shelter — it was identity, artistry, and emotional refuge, created in response to a climate that required not just warmth of body, but warmth of spirit. And here’s the part that feels both surprising

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT “Three Princesses” (1910) by Thorolf Holmboe (Norwegian, 1866–1935). Wool and linen. Collection of David and Susan Werner, Courtesy of The Frick Pittsburgh.

PROVIDED BY WASHINGTON COUNTY MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS

Inside Sandinavian homes, a painted chair might carry flowers from a local meadow, a mythic creature, or even a protective symbol.

and refreshing: this approach did not require extravagance. Anyone today can borrow from it without buying a thing. You can honor a handmade object, even a quietly imperfect one; let color be bold rather than cautious; notice the seasons instead of longing for another; display a symbol that means something to you; or warm a room with lamplight rather than ceiling glare. These choices aren’t about aesthetics alone — they are about interpreting home as a living narrative. In a world that increasingly values speed, sameness, and mass production, there is something deeply moving about an artistic culture that declared: our homes should reflect who we are, where we come from, and what we dream of — not simply what was sold to us. So, this winter, instead of rushing through the darker months, consider how the Scandinavians of 1900 might have approached your living space. Not with renovation plans or online carts, but with questions like: What feels meaningful? What carries memory? What invites joy or comfort? What reminds me of the natural world, even when the windows are frosted? You may find that home improvement can begin with something as small as the light of a candle, the pattern of a blanket, the story of an object, or a color brave enough to fill a winter room. And when February arrives, you’ll have the chance to see how an entire artistic movement embraced the same philosophy — not as a fleeting trend, but as a way of life — inside The Scandinavian Home. The Scandinavian Home has been organized by The Frick Pittsburgh. The exhibition is curated by Patricia G. Berman and Michelle Facos. The tour is coordinated by Dawn R. Brean, Chief Curator and Director of Collections, The Frick Pittsburgh. The Hagerstown presentation has been made possible through the generous support of Paul and Lotta Mellott, with additional support from the John R. Hershey Jr. & Anna L. Hershey Family Foundation and Dr. & Mrs. Robert K. Hobbs.

Bailey Rafter is the manager of marketing and publication for Washington County Museum of Fine Arts. To learn more about the museum, go to wcmfa.org. AT HOME PLACES MAGAZINE | WINTER 2026 21

MIND YOUR MONEY

Budget-Friendly Winter Holiday Activities That Bring Big Joy

Written by Jacob W. Barr

inter holidays are a time for relaxation, celebration, and creating memories with loved ones. But the season also comes with financial pressures - travel, decor, outings, and gift-giving can quickly add up. Thankfully, enjoying the winter holidays doesn’t have to drain your bank account. There are countless fun, meaningful, and budget-friendly activities that bring just as much joy, sometimes even more, than expensive outings. Here are some creative, cozy, and cost-efficient winter holiday activities that keep the spirit bright without straining your wallet. Explore Local Light Displays One of the simplest and most magical winter activities is driving or walking through neighborhoods to admire holiday light displays. Many communities put on stunning decorations that are completely free to enjoy. Make it extra special by bringing a thermos of hot cocoa and playing festive music in the car. It’s a low-cost tradition that brings big smiles and lots of photo opportunities.

Host a Cozy Movie or Game Night Instead of going out for costly entertainment, bring the fun home. Choose a theme holiday classics, animated favorites, or nostalgic throwbacks, and create a cozy viewing setup with blankets and snacks. If movies aren’t your thing, break out board games, card games, or puzzles. Game nights are interactive, affordable, and perfect for quality time with family or friends. Bake Seasonal Treats Together Holiday baking is both a budget-friendly activity and a way to create gifts at the same time. Cookies, brownies, muffins, or homemade bread can be made relatively inexpensively, especially if you shop store brands or use ingredients you already have. Turn it into a group

event: choose a few recipes, assign tasks, play music, and enjoy the warm scents filling your home. You can also package treats as thoughtful gifts, helping you save even more. Enjoy Outdoor Winter Fun If you live in an area with cold weather, embrace it! Many winter activities are free or inexpensive and bring out the playful side of everyone involved. Try: Building a snowman or snow fort, Sledding on a local hill, Going ice skating at a community rink, Taking a winter nature walk, Having a friendly snowball fight, Even a simple walk through a snowy park can feel magical and refreshing. DIY Crafts and Decorations Instead of buying new decorations each year, consider making your own. It’s cost-efficient, fun, and personalized. Try crafting: Paper snowflakes, Dried orange garlands, Pinecone ornaments, Homemade candles, Simple wreaths. You can often find craft supplies at dollar stores or use materials from nature. Crafting is a calming way to enjoy the season, and you’ll end up with unique décor that holds special meaning.

Host a “Potluck Holiday Dinner” Holiday dinners don’t have to fall on one person’s budget. Hosting a potluck is a great way to keep costs low while enjoying a big meal together. Each guest brings a dish, drink, or dessert, creating variety and reducing the workload for the host. You get the warmth of a holiday gathering without the financial stress. Winter fun doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With a little creativity and intention, you can fill the season with joy, connection, and rich memories, all while staying financially mindful. These cost-efficient activities prove that meaning, laughter, and togetherness matter far more than expensive outings. When you focus on simplicity, you’ll often find the holidays feel even more magical.

Jacob W. Barr, AAMS, is a financial advisor at Raymond James Financial Services, 140 Paul Smith Blvd. in Hagerstown.

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

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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.

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