At Home Places, Autumn 2025

save on energy bills.

Lisa McCoy is a registered dietitian at the University ofMaryland Extension

Volume 12, Issue 4

ISSUE EDITOR Glenn Garvie

DESIGN EDITORS/LAYOUT

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nicole Abuhamada, Jacob W. Barr, Tara Bockstanz, Lauren Buechmann, Lisa McCoy, Curt Miller, Bailey Rafter, Tricia Lynn Strader, Matthew Wedd

General Maintenance Tips for a Clean Refrigerator

• Wipe up spills immediately when they occur.

ADVERTISING DESIGN Gannett Creative Solutions

• Keep your refrigerator smelling fresh by placing an opened box of baking soda on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. This will absorb any odors from lingering near your food.

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Dawn Gessel

ADVERTISING SALES

• Check temperature of refrigerator (40°F or below) and freezer (0°F pr below) weekly.

Rebecca Cardenas, Michelle Horton, Chris Konsulis, Lori McNeil, Daniel Natt, Stacy Raidt, Samantha Shank

• Store foods in sealed containers and storage bags to avoid cross-contamination.

• Make a habit of checking food in the refrigerator weekly and throw out food that has expired or is not safe to eat.

© 2025 Herald-Mail Media

Use the guidelines below from the USDA for how long food is safe to eat when refrigerated:

• Cooked leftovers: 4 days

• Raw poultry and ground meats: 1-2 days

• Fresh steaks, chops, roasts: 3-5 days

• Fully cooked ham slices: 3-4 days

• Bacon, smoked breakfast sausage links & patties: 7 days

• Hot dogs and luncheon meats (unopened): 2 weeks

• Hot dogs (opened package): 1 week

• Luncheon meats (opened package): 3-5 days

• Fresh eggs in shell: 3-5 weeks

• Hard-cooked eggs: 1 week

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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GETTING INSPIRED

Your local library has design books to get you on your way to creating the budget-friendly reading nook of your dreams for free with your library card. Here are some book options to check out:

• How to Make a House a Home: Creating a Purposeful, Seasonal Space by Ariel Kaye

• The Slow Down: For the Love of Home by Leanne Ford

• Feels Like Home: Relaxed Interiors for a Meaningful Life by Lauren Liess

Create Your Own Home Reading Nook

Written by Lauren Buechmann

When the world feels overwhelming, the peaceful escape of a reading nook –somewhere to unwind and slow down – can be very grounding; a little pocket of solitude right in your own home.

Creating a reading nook is a dreamy project, and it doesn’t need a lot of space or money. You can create your own personalized space whether you have an extra room, or more simply, the end of a hallway, a shared space, a basement, a cubby under the stairs, a window, or a corner of the living room. Here are some helpful tips to get you off to a good start on your personal oasis:

THE SPOT: If you don’t have an obvious area that would be good, keep an open mind. Often a corner of the bed-

room or living room can be utilized with a rolling privacy screen or even a table or crate with plants on it. The end of a hallway or landing could lend itself to a nook as could a basement or porch. You could move it seasonally and change some elements like adding layers of soft blankets and a candle in the cooler months, or a fan and some fresh wildflowers in the warmer months.

THE LIGHTING: Natural light adds health benefits as well as ambiance, but if natural light is hard to come by, a reading light or electric salt lamp can really give a warm firelight-like glow. Houseplants clean the air and can be found inexpensively. However, if light is an issue, plant cuttings, like pothos, in a jar of water still purify the air, look beautiful, grow roots in case you want to pot them later, and thrive with much less light than potted plants.

THE DETAILS: Adding some personalization can really make a space beckon you to come, sit, enjoy. Add photos, books and magazines, a favorite mug, stones and crystals, a mini disco ball to catch the light, or even your childhood stuffed animal and you may find other family members or pets want in on the coziness too! A relaxing playlist, an inspiring podcast, an engaging audiobook, or gazing into the distance and letting go of your thoughts in your new mini-sanctuary could be just what you need.

Rosenbaum’s headquarters in Chambersburg.

ROSENBAUM’S LANDSCAPING AND NURSERY

Growing a Business While Helping Others Grow Their Gardenscape

WRITTEN BY TRICIA LYNN STRADER

In late July, Rosenbaum’s Landscaping and Nursery in Chambersburg hosted a special open house to showcase their renovated 2,400-square-foot facility. It’s there where they help customers to achieve beautiful landscapes for their own piece of the land. It was such a success that President and CEO Scott Rosenbaum said they might have an open house every year.

“We had a lot of people, 200 to 300,” he says. “Every time I turned around, people were asking me questions.”

But answering questions is something he really doesn’t mind doing. Whether someone needs full professional design including walkways, retaining walls and lighting, or just wants advice on plants and flowers to enhance curb appeal and enjoyment, Rosenbaum and his staff are ready to help share their 30 years of experience.

Rosenbaum says that when he was young, he liked drawing animals and

‘We have done landscaping for young adults, who later moved to other homes or downsized and came back. And now we’re doing their kids’ homes.’

— SCOTT ROSENBAUM OF ROSENBAUM’S LANDSCAPING AND NURSERY, A FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS FOR 30 YEARS

plants, and then became interested in landscaping as a teenager. “I realized I could design and do things with live plants. I was interested in how they grow,” he adds.

He learned the Latin names of many plants early on, and took a horticulture class during high school at what was then called Franklin County Area Vocational-Technical School, now Franklin County Career and Technology Center. He graduated top in his class and was even asked to come back and teach the same class for twothirds of the following year while the teacher was on a sabbatical.

Almost immediately, Scott Rosenbaum started Rosenbaum’s Landscaping, in 1981. He had a dream, an entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to providing quality professional landscaping services. His mission statement says he and his employees are passionate about what they do, and strive to do it right the first time.

He started out with a pickup truck

Welcome to Ridgeview Farm – a remarkable 28-acre estate in Clear Spring, MD featuring a custom-built 4-bedroom, 4-bath brick colonial with over 4,000 sq ft of pristine living space. Inside, enjoy custom cherry kitchen cabinetry, oak floors, a grand primary suite, and a finished lower level. The property includes an 8-stall horse barn, outdoor riding arena, saltwater pool with pool house, and multiple detached buildings: a massive garage for RVs and equipment, a workshop/ studio, and a greenhouse. Ideal for equestrian living or income-producing ventures like boarding, farming, or storage. This is luxury country living at its finest—truly one-of-a-kind!

Privacy and Seclusion Await at this stunning custom brick rancher on over 8 wooded, unrestricted acres in Clear Spring, MD. With 5,000+ finished sq ft, this one-owner home features 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, a 3-bay garage with workshop, detached 2-car garage, and large covered storage for boats, ATVs, or equipment. Inside, enjoy oak floors, a dramatic beamed family room with stone fireplace, custom cherry kitchen with granite counters, and a spacious primary suite. The walk-out lower level offers a massive rec room, 5th bedroom, full bath, and ample storage. Recent updates include a new roof (2023) and CAC (2025). No HOA, no city taxes—a rare, peaceful retreat!

and a wheelbarrow. He was the youngest Rotarian in Pennsylvania at the time. Some people in the industry told him he wouldn’t make it. But he didn’t listen. He had a drive and a passion, and didn’t look back. He said many people in the Rotary mentored him and helped him keep moving forward. He said in 1982 he took the larger leap and incorporated.

His father had inspired him to do things right the first time, in order to save time and money down the road. His mother encouraged his dreams and encouraged him to do more than what was expected, that he could achieve anything as long as he worked hard enough.

That hard work paid off. With expansion into a nursery on 22 acres, they’ve been open to the public since 1998. It’s also a family affair. His son Alexander is his partner, and both their wives work in the business that has more than 25 employees.

He has always wanted to be out front, on the cutting edge of innovative ideas, he says. Before the internet made research and education easier, he was attending horticultural conferences to see up and coming things or techniques.

For example, he said when he started the business, very few were using bark mulch. Mulch was a new thing. Accent lighting was new.

“I didn’t want to just have accent lighting for purchase,” he says. “I wanted to be a distributor for easier pricing and passing that pricing on to my customers.”

Rosenbaum says landscaping really includes a lot of things, from design for every season of enjoyment, to texture, color, and non-living materials like boulders, retaining walls, or water accents.

They must be doing something right. Eighty percent of their business is by word of mouth. “We have done landscaping for young adults, who later moved to other homes or downsized and came back,” Rosenbaum says. “And now we’re doing their kids’ homes.”

Rosenbaum’s Landscaping and Nursery professionals can design the entire landscape, from flower beds to

walkways, landscaping around pools, waterscapes, driveways and retaining walls.

More recently, they renovated their building. If people want a more complete professional job, they can have Scott Rosenbaum come out and take a look at their space. Designs are shown on a large screen and include a 3-D walk-through of features like patios, retaining walls, fire pits, and of course, the plants.

For those who want to build their own dreams, they can get advice and ideas about trees, shrubs, and perennials. Hardscape products like stonework, pillars, and timber pieces previously inside the showroom are now visible outside, turned into examples to help customers visualize

what they can do.

“People can call us to see what to plant in their area,” Rosenbaum says. “They bring their phones with pictures, and we can walk through the nursery with them to figure it out together. We want to help and advise on what works where.”

They strive to surpass customers’ expectations.

There are plans to add annuals and hanging baskets, as well as seminars on topics like proper pruning or how to plant an urn.

Rosenbaum continues “We had a large turnout for the open house. Kids loved the face painting and bounce house. A lot of people were asking me questions. We might do it annually, in early June next time.”

SEPTEMBER IS

RECOVERY MONTH

The Path to Healing, Dignity, and a Renewed Life…

Finding the right treatment option can be the key to someone’s recovery journey. These local organizations are here to help.

WRITTEN BY TRICIA LYNN STRADER

September is National Recovery Month. The observance started in 1989, and is a national observance held every September to promote and support new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, the nation’s strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of service providers and communities who make recovery in all its forms possible, according to its website, samhsa.gov.

Several area agencies and organizations are available to help those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. According to Washington Goes Purple, the CDC reported in 2022 that 107,941 people died from a drug overdose, with 76% involving an opioid. There were 54.6 million Americans ages 12 or older needing substance use disorder treatment, but only 13.1 million actually received it. Agency representatives say these statistics highlight the need for awareness and education about the danger of substance use disorder in the community.

She adds, “At the heart of WGP is a mission to foster open, honest conversations about drugs, and alcohol. We aim to equip young people with the knowledge they need to make healthy, informed choices empowering them to prevent substance abuse before it starts. WGP also stands for compassion and support. By breaking down the stigma around substance use and mental health, we ensure that those struggling feel safe, supported, and encouraged to seek help without fear or shame.”

“WGP partners with schools to embed substance use prevention into everyday education,” says Washington County Health Department Prevention Services Program Coordinator

Samantha S. Bohle. “We provide appropriate materials, lead school assemblies, and support youth-led initiatives that spread awareness from peer to peer. That’s why we’re training and empowering teen leaders to become peer educators. We attend local fairs, festivals, and events to share vital resources like Narcan access, Good Samaritan Law information, and overdose

Alcohol use disorder is the most common substance use disorder, affecting 29.5 million Americans in 2021.

— SAMHSA, 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health

RECOVERY IS A JOURNEY RECOVERY IS FOR EVERYONE *

*

Washington County’s WASHINGTON GOES PURPLE is a substance use disorder awareness campaign focusing on prevention strategies and eliminating stigma. Events include drug take back events, community workshops, and seminars as well as partnerships with schools and other educational programs.

“Washington Goes Purple (WGP) is more than just a color,” says Cassandra Hershberger, Director of Operations at Maryland’s Office of Opioid Response. “It’s a call to action. This substance use disorder awareness campaign is dedicated to educating our youth and community about the real and present dangers of drug misuse. Through proactive outreach and impactful partnerships, WGP is starting the ‘new conversation’ that openly discusses risks of fentanyl, xylazine, polysubstance use, and the importance of prevention and stigma reduction.”

response training.”

Bohle says the power of digital media allows WGP to create accessible online content such as videos, webinars, and toolkits to make sure families have resources.

Washington Goes Purple’s press release notes that partnering with the initiative would help fund critical components of the program such as print and marketing materials costs, advertising to spread awareness, and helping with educational materials for students and parents or providing speakers and student scholarships in each school district in Washington County to take the burden off college costs.

Several events have been held over the summer, and the 7th Annual Washington Goes Purple Exhibit kicks off Sept. 4 at Washington County Arts Council, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. A Recovery KickOff is scheduled at Hagerstown City Park band shell on Sept. 6 with speaker Fausto Castellanos, motivational speaker and clinical counselor with

How to Talk to Your Family & Friends About Your Sobriety During the Holidays

The upcoming holiday season is a time for connection, joy, and celebration –but it can also bring challenges for those in recovery. Whether you’re new to sobriety or a seasoned veteran, having conversations with family about your choice to stay sober can feel overwhelming.

1SET BOUNDARIES BEFORE THE GATHERING

Communicate Your Needs Early

It’s important to set expectations with your family in advance. Let them know that your sobriety is a priority, and clearly communicate what boundaries you need to feel comfortable.

EXAMPLE: “I’m not drinking, and I’d appreciate your support in respecting that decision.”

2

FOCUS ON WHAT THE HOLIDAYS ARE ABOUT

Shift the Focus to Connection

Remind your family (and yourself!) that the holidays are about spending time together, not about drinking. You can suggest non-alcoholic activities that foster connection.

EXAMPLE ACTIVITIES: Game nights, holiday movies, baking together, or taking a walk to enjoy the holiday lights.

3HAVE A SUPPORTIVE EXIT STRATEGY

Know When to Leave

Sometimes family gatherings can become overwhelming. Have an exit plan ready if you feel your sobriety is at risk or the environment becomes stressful.

EXAMPLE EXIT STRATEGY: Drive yourself, have a trusted friend on standby, or schedule a virtual checkin with a sober buddy.

Below are five helpful tips on how to talk to your family about sobriety this holiday season, while staying true to your recovery journey. — PROVIDED BY SOBRSAFE For

his own story of recovery. All day on Sept. 12 is a fundraiser at Jersey Mike’s, 18015 Garland Groh Blvd. and 1370 Dual Highway, Hagerstown.

On Sept. 13, Smithsburg Goes Purple at Veterans Park at 10 a.m. A Recovery Walk is scheduled on Sept. 20 at Meritus Park starting at 10 a.m. with speaker and former NFL quarterback Ryan Leaf. For more information, email washingtongoespurple@gmail.com or visit washingtongoespurple.com.

4BE HONEST, BUT NOT DEFENSIVE

Respond Honestly and Calmly

If family members ask why you’re not drinking, keep your response simple and honest without feeling the need to over-explain or defend your choice.

EXAMPLE: ‘I’ve made the decision to focus on my health and sobriety. I feel better this way.”

5

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH SUPPORT

Lean on Your Recovery Community

Reach out to your sober network or trusted friends during the holidays. Staying connected with those who understand your journey can help you feel supported.

REMINDER: Check in with your sponsor, attend meetings, or keep an open line with sober friends.

Remember, your sobriety is a gift to yourself, and you have the power to protect it. This holiday season, prioritize your well-being, set boundaries, and lean on your support system.

LEAH’S LEGACY was founded in 2019 in Greencastle, Pennsylvania, after the passing of Leah Renee Straley in 2018. Its mission is to provide safe support to individuals seeking recovery, and offering compassionate care for families and individuals on their journey to wellness.

Co-founder Michael Straley says, “After our daughter passed on Valentine’s Day of 2018, we wanted to do something that would keep her memory alive while serving others, particularly, women in recovery. We formed Leah’s Legacy.”

Straley says that during Recovery Month, Leah’s Legacy supports other agencies and organizations such as Pyramid Healthcare with an event on Sept. 6 in Waynesboro; Smithsburg Goes Purple, Franklin/Fulton Drug & Alcohol event on Sept. 27; and a Sept. 23 PA Department Drug and Alcohol event in Harrisburg.

Leah’s Legacy also provides filled gift bags like one Leah received while living in a sober living home. A church group would visit the home the first Sunday of each month to sing worship songs and share in a small service. It was the first Sunday of December 2017 when Christmas gifts were brought in for the women residing there. Ladies were grabbing the pretty decorated packages and gift bags while a garbage bag was left on the floor. Leah selected the garbage bag for herself. A large purse was still inside the bag, filled with all kinds of toiletries, a Wet hairbrush, winter hat, scarf & glove set, socks, an umbrella, small dollar gift cards, and more. She called her parents and excitedly told them about it.

Last September, WGP hosted its annual Recovery Walk at Meritus Park. This year’s recovery walk will be at Meritus Park on Sept. 20, with food, fun, games, and vendors. Keynote speaker is Ryan Leaf, “The Biggest Flop in the NFL.”

WEARABLE TECH

SOBRSURE is a fitnessstyle wristband for advanced alcohol safety, support and recovery. This game-changing solution for alcohol monitoring requires no administered or scheduled testing. Individuals are now independent from breathalyzers or fluid tests.

App-based technology makes it easy for families or professionals to monitor progress, and provides alcohol detection alerts, pinpoint location tracking and band removal notifications.

Available at sobrsafe.com

In May, Washington Goes Purple held the 1st annual “Trash Bash” in downtown Hagerstown. This unique fundraiser brough community members together to create a one-of-akind art piece out of upcycled and repurposed materials.

So at Leah’s Legacy, they recreated the bag she had received. This version is a reusable purple drawstring bag filled with essentials, and given to women seeking change, and to those who have taken steps to reclaim their lives from the trauma of addiction.

Leah’s Legacy has a certified family recovery specialist, an individual who has lived experience with a loved one struggling or has struggled with substance use disorder. The specialist can help with services and programs designed to provide support to individuals and family members.

Leah’s Cookie Bite Bake Shop is located at Leah’s Gathering Place in Greencastle. The specialty is decorated iced sugar cookies. Co-founder Robin Straley is the baker and decorator.

Leah’s Legacy is located at 10631 Grant Shook Road, Greencastle, Pennsylvania. Call (717) 5528885 or visit leahslegacy.net.

BROOKES HOUSE offers addiction treatment for Hagerstown residents with long-term treatment and intensive outpatient services at the counseling center. They offer help for women suffering from alcohol abuse, opioid misuse, and substance abuse.

Visit the Brookes House website at brookeshouse.org or call (240) 887-1907.

For more than 25 years, Damon and Audra Albert have dedicated their lives to the development of programs that serve at-risk children. Their efforts helped the lives of

families and children worldwide. Some of the efforts included serving as a pastor in various churches, establishing food and clothing programs for less fortunate, targeting anti-gang and anti-drug projects, and training leaders around the globe in ministry. They established CAMP EZRI in Hedgesville, West Virginia, an adventure wilderness program giving at-risk children opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting.

Visit Camp Ezri online at campezri.org or (910) 777-4425. *

According to its website, SOBRSAFE’s advanced transdermal, or touch-based technology, detects and reports in real-time the presence of alcohol as emitted through a user’s skin. No breath, blood, or urine samples are needed. Using a backend data platform, SOBRsafe provides passive detection technology for both behavioral health providers and individual consumers. For more information, visit SOBRsafe at sobrsafe.com.

In addition to its many offerings to provide support for individuals struggling with addiction and offer supportive counseling, MERITUS HEALTH also hosts weekly Alcoholics Anonymous meetings at its Robinwood Professional Center at 11110 Medical Campus Road, Room 122A, on Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m.

The local hotline number is 240-850-2677. Additional meeting schedules can be found at Hagerstownaa.org.

Local service & great rates

Call or stop by today

Gaye McGovern Ins Agcy Inc

Gaye McGovern, Agent

11373 Robinwood Dr Hagerstown, MD 21742-6706

Bus: 301-790-1462

Fax: 301-790-0513 www.gayemcgovern.com

State Farm Bloomington, IL

12177 Hollowell Church Rd. Greencastle, PA 17225

(Only 10 Minutes From Hagerstown)

Mon–Fri 7:30am–5:30pm | Sat 7:30am–12pm

Safe Food Storage Starts with a Clean Refrigerator

Written by Lisa McCoy

The refrigerator is the most used appliance in your kitchen because it works 24/7 to keep food cold. It is used to store perishable foods like milk, eggs, and meat to prevent spoilage and bacterial growth. It may also be the most forgotten appliance to maintain and keep clean.

There is not a standard recommendation for how often you should clean your refrigerator, but I would suggest at least every 3-4 months. Cleaning it frequently will help to prevent food spoilage and cross-contamination of Listeria, a bacterium that survives at 40°F and may cause a foodborne illness. The freezer does not get as much use so it can be cleaned less frequently following the same steps used for the refrigerator. Following some general maintenance tips for a clean refrigerator (in the box below) makes the job of cleaning your refrigerator easier.

So, ask yourself, when was the last time you thoroughly cleaned your refrigerator? This can seem like a daunting task, but you can do it in five simple steps.

Remove everything from the refrigerator.

• Keep perishables fresh by putting them in a cooler with ice packs while you clean.

• Toss out old or expired food in the trash. If you are not sure, remember the saying “when in doubt, throw it out”.

• Recycle glass or plastic containers.

Next, remove and clean the shelves and drawers.

• Allow them to warm up to room temperature before washing to prevent breakage.

• Wash in hot, soapy water and rinse.

• Allow items to air dry.

Clean the inside of the refrigerator from top to bottom.

• Use a clean dry cloth or towel and homemade refrigerator cleaner (see recipe) or use hot, soapy water and rinse with clean water. Avoid abrasive cleaners, bleach, and ones that may impart a chemical taste to food.

• Tough spots may need a plastic, non-abrasive scrubber or soak them with a wet cloth. Use an old toothbrush to reach those hard-to-reach places, like corners, shelf seams, and rubber door seams.

• Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean cloth or towel. Soft microfiber cloths work great for cleaning and drying.

• Do not forget the interior doors either. Some of these shelves can be removed for easier cleaning.

• Don’t forget the rubber gaskets on the doors; be sure to clean between the seams.

Place the clean shelves and drawers in the refrigerator.

• As you put the food back into the refrigerator, be sure to wipe off the outside of the jars and containers to keep everything clean.

• Use a clean cloth when working with your food jars to prevent contamination and dry them well.

• You may want to invest in shelf and drawer liners that help to keep them cleaner.

Homemade

Refrigerator Cleaner

• 2 tablespoons baking soda

• 1 quart warm water

Dissolve baking soda in warm water. Pour into spray bottle and label bottle. Use it to wipe inside and outside surfaces.

For stubborn spots, rub with a baking soda paste. Rinse with a clean, wet cloth.

Now it is time to clean the outside of your appliance.

• Starting from the top, wipe down and clean the exterior of the refrigerator with a soft cloth and mild liquid dishwashing detergent or other cleaners recommended by the appliance manufacturer.

• If you have a stainless-steel refrigerator, read your appliance manual. A simple home-made cleaner is vinegar applied with a soft rag to keep the surface shiny.

At least twice a year, it is important to vacuum the refrigerator coils to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. Unplug the refrigerator and move it so you can reach the coils at the back of the refrigerator to clean. Use your owner’s manual

for assistance if needed. Use a long, narrow brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris from the coils. If using a vacuum, be gentle to avoid damaging the coils. After cleaning, put the refrigerator back in place and plug it back in. Regular cleaning can improve cooling efficiency, potentially extend the life of your refrigerator, and save on energy bills.

General Maintenance Tips for a Clean Refrigerator

• Wipe up spills immediately when they occur.

• Keep your refrigerator smelling fresh by placing an opened box of baking soda on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. This will absorb any odors from lingering near your food.

• Check temperature of refrigerator (40°F or below) and freezer (0°F pr below) weekly.

• Store foods in sealed containers and storage bags to avoid cross-contamination.

• Make a habit of checking food in the refrigerator weekly and throw out food that has expired or is not safe to eat.

Use the guidelines below from the USDA for how long food is safe to eat when refrigerated:

• Cooked leftovers: 4 days

• Raw poultry and ground meats: 1-2 days

• Fresh steaks, chops, roasts: 3-5 days

• Fully cooked ham slices: 3-4 days

• Bacon, smoked breakfast sausage links & patties: 7 days

• Hot dogs and luncheon meats (unopened): 2 weeks

• Hot dogs (opened package): 1 week

• Luncheon meats (opened package): 3-5 days

• Fresh eggs in shell: 3-5 weeks

• Hard-cooked eggs: 1 week

Reviewing Medicare Part D

What You Need to Know

Written by Curt Miller

Medicare Part D is a critical component of the U.S. healthcare system for millions of older adults and people with disabilities. Designed to help beneficiaries manage the often high costs of prescription medications, Part D plays a vital role in ensuring access to necessary drugs while also aiming to contain out-of-pocket expenses.

As healthcare needs evolve and policies shift, the Medicare Part D open enrollment is the time to review the structure, benefits, limitations, and recent developments. Open enrollment is Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, 2025. However, navigating Part D can be complex, and reviewing one’s plan annually is key to ensuring cost-effective, comprehensive coverage. The review is the opportunity to potentially save thousands of dollars by accessing the best plan for you.

If you’re comfortable navigating the web on your own, you can visit myMedicare.gov and enter the requested information as prompted to explore your Medicare Part D prescription plan options.

If using the web independently raises your stress levels, don’t worry. The Washington County Commission on Aging offers plan assistance through a Maryland Access Point appointment. Simply give us a call, and we’ll help you set up an in-person or telephone appointment with one of our dedicated professionals. During the appointment, our staff will guide you in finding the Medicare Part D plan that best suits your budget and situation. We’ll also help you compare plans and complete the enrollment process for your chosen

2026 Medicare Part D plan. To get additional help reviewing your Medicare Part D plan, call us after September 2, at 301-790-0275.

If you’re interested in learning more about Medicare, you can participate in the “New to Medicare Workshop,” currently takes place on the second and fourth Wednesday afternoon of each month. Pre-registration is required, and for more information, contact our agency at info@wccoaging.org or call 301-790-0275.

The Washington County Commission on Aging provides various informational and educational offerings to support you and your loved ones. You can find details about these programs on our website wcoaging.org, or visit our Facebook page at facebook.com/ WCCOAging.

These are just two of the multitude of programs that are offered to the community through the Washington County Commission on Aging. The organization plays a vital role in helping our community navigate the complex support and service systems you or your loved one may be eligible for. Several programs have waiting times of six months or more because of high demand.

Understanding that funds may be limited, our team continually strives to provide access to vital programs and resources for caregivers, those living with disabilities, and the aging community. If you need assistance, call for an appointment today, 301-790-0275!

As a not-for-profit agency supporting crucial programs and resources, it creates significant expenses. If you are able, please make a charitable gift to the Washington County Commission on Aging. We need your support and generosity to help fill funding gaps and enable us to aid more seniors, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities. Together we can promote quality aging by meeting the needs, protecting the rights and preserving the dignity of our citizens.

Should you have any inquiries about donating, feel free to reach out to us at 301-790-0275 or visit www.wccoaging. org.

Curt Miller is the Development and Education Program Manager at the Washington County Commission on Aging in Hagerstown.

Bringing in the Harvest: The 18th Century Way

Written by Matthew Wedd

It’s been a long, hot summer, and while that has meant some amazing weekend programs at the Conococheague Institute, fun summer camps, and incredible progress from our student interns, we’re looking forward to some cooler fall weather.

As summer wanes, our thoughts turn naturally to the harvest season, when our months of hard work and nature’s bounty is gathered in and communities celebrate the end of the growing year. At our 1775: Harvest on the Homestead event on October 18th, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. we aim to capture the spirit of those historic harvests in a way that’s immersive, educational, and a whole lot of fun.

This day-long celebration will offer a hands-on experience of colonial harvest traditions—an ideal outing for families, history buffs, and anyone curious about how life was lived in the 1700s.

At the heart of the event is, of course, the harvest itself. In the 18th century, the fall season was a time of hard work, but also great community spirit. It was

when neighbors came together to gather crops, preserve food for the winter, and celebrate their survival in a challenging new world. We’re bringing all of that to life through interactive activities such as traditional grape stomping (known in French as pigéage) to demonstrate wine-making in its earliest and most hands-on form. Visitors can roll up their pant legs and jump in, just like the settlers once did.

Just down the path at our tavern, apples straight from our orchards will be pressed for cider making, an essential part of colonial food preservation and daily refreshment. Ben Franklin famously quipped, “It’s indeed bad to eat apples, it’s better to turn them all into cyder.” and cider consumption and production were integral parts of daily life. In the autumn, apples were harvested before they were “too ripe,” left to ferment for a few days, ground in a heavy cider mill, and then pressed.

And for those who enjoy a good brew, Oakgrove Farm will be onsite demonstrating historic beer brewing techniques. Watching beer made with

Drew Shuptar-Rayvis, Cultural Ambassador of the Pocomoke Nation, educates his audience at Conococheague Institute.

18th-century tools and ingredients is a fascinating window into colonial craftsmanship, and the simpler tastes of homemade beer can rival the fanciest brew. Food is central to any harvest, and we’re thrilled to feature hearth cooking demonstrations throughout the day in our Negley log cabin. Using only the tools and methods available in 1775, our skilled interpreters will prepare dishes from stews to savory pies with authenticity and plenty of seasonal flair.

We’re also honored to welcome back

Matthew feeds one of the new additions to the Institute’s animal husbandry program that offers visitors a hands-on exploration of life on the frontier farmstead.

fresh

It’s pigeage time for Molly and her barrel of fresh grapes.

special guest Drew ShuptarRayvis, Cultural Ambassador of the Pocomoke Nation. Drew will be sharing invaluable knowledge about Native American harvest traditions, seasonal foods, and the use of medicinal plants—offering a deeper understanding of the land and its resources through the eyes of the region’s original inhabitants.

But this isn’t just a passive history lesson, it’s a celebration. Guests will have a chance to try traditional games and dances that would have been common at a harvest gathering, especially among the young folks. Courtship customs of the era often played out during communal events like these, and our interpreters will bring those stories and dances to life.

As the sun sets, we’ll cap off the evening with our now-beloved bonfire tradition. Gather around the flames as stories are told, songs are sung, and community is celebrated. Whether you’re warm-

ing your hands or your spirit, it’s a moment not to miss. We’re bringing this celebration forward from its usual November 5 (Bonfire Night) date to get the perfect mix of sunset, twilight, and a not TOO cold wind.

1775: Harvest on the Homestead is made possible through the generous support of the Americana Corner’s Preserving America Partners program and F&M Trust. Their investment in local history helps us keep these experiences free to the public and ensures that the lessons and traditions of the past continue to inspire future generations.

While October 18 is our biggest fall event, our weekly Saturday programs continue through the fall with themes such as colonial gardening, dye crafts animal husbandry, herbal medicine, and archery. Volunteers and staff provide interpretation across our beautiful 30-acre campus, home to original 18th-century structures like the Negley Log House,

Piper Cabin and Davis-Chambers House, set in the rolling hills near Mercersburg, Pennsylvania.

For those who haven’t visited before, the Conococheague Institute isn’t just a museum, it’s a place where history endures. Whether you’re stomping grapes, striking a spark with flint and steel, or dancing a reel around the fire, you’re not just learning about the past, you’re living it.

So mark your calendars for October 18th and join us for a full day of seasonal sights, smells, and stories. It’s history that you can taste, touch, and truly experience. We can’t wait to welcome you. For more details, contact info@cimlg. org or phone 717-328-2800.

Leadership in Action: Growth, Connection, and Community Impact

Written by Tara Bockstanz

Leadership Washington County (LWC) continues to grow—not just in size, but in strength, spirit, and community impact. From expanded alumni engagement to fresh programming and new faces in leadership, the momentum is real. Together, we are building a future led by passionate individuals committed to service, connection, and progress.

CLASS #38: 100% COMMITTED, 100% CONNECTED

The LWC Class of 2025 (#38 Special) wrapped up their journey with a meaningful Closing Retreat at Rocky Gap Resort, reflecting on their year, celebrating with a graduation dinner, and deepening the connections they built throughout the program. In a show

of generosity and leadership, the class presented LWC with a $660 donation enough to fund six Priority Graduate Memberships for fellow alumni.

Even more impressive: 100% of Class #38 joined as Graduate Members, demonstrating the strength of the bond they formed and their shared commitment to staying involved. Their example sets a powerful tone for future classes and alumni engagement.

Graduate Programming: Where Leadership Keeps Growing

Graduation from LWC is only the beginning. Our Graduate Member programming continues to offer alumni unique opportunities to connect, grow, and contribute to our community all year long.

We’ll kick off the upcoming year in September with a Behind the Scenes tour of the new Boys & Girls Club

of Washington County facility—an exclusive opportunity to see one of our county’s most impactful nonprofits in action.

Returning favorites will include: Best Lunch Ever – a casual, curated lunch series with thought-provoking guests; LWC Presents – engaging panel discussions and speaker events; The Holiday Party – always a favorite celebration of the season and our alumni community.

Additionally, our casual monthly gatherings – Brew Crew Coffee Talk at Free Range Café and Lunch Bunch at Foster’s on the Point – will resume in September, offering simple, consistent ways for alumni to reconnect and recharge.

These events are where new ideas take shape, relationships are strengthened, and the mission of LWC continues long after class days end.

Class #38 wraps up their journey with a meaningful Closing Retreat at Rocky Gap Resort.

Introducing Our Newest Board Members

We are proud to welcome a dynamic group of professionals to the LWC Board of Directors. These leaders bring deep expertise, fresh perspectives, and a strong commitment to LWC’s mission of inspiring leaders and strengthening community:

Annaston Cree (Class of 2023 – #36) Grants Director & Western Maryland Field Representative, U.S. Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (MD-06)

Stephanie Hurd (Class of 2020 – #33) Director of Business Development, Innovative Incorporated

Tamara Martinez (Class of 2025 – #38) Residential Development Professional, Comcast

Katie Stover (Class of 2016 – #29) Co-Founder & Brand Strategist, Wimbly Stoke

Karla Tellez (Class of 2024 – #37) Community Development Manager, Patriot Federal Credit Union

Matt Andrews (Class of 2023 – #36) Practice Administrator, Capital Women’s Care

Their leadership helps guide LWC forward while representing the broad and diverse talent within our alumni community.

MEET THE NEW CLASS OF 2026

As we look forward, we’re thrilled to welcome the newest members of the LWC family – Class #39. These individuals represent a new wave of leaders, each bringing a passion for service and a desire to make a meaningful impact in Washington County. For more details on the members of our new class, visit leadershipwashingtoncounty.org/class-39

Whether you’re just starting your LWC journey, staying engaged through Graduate programming, or

serving at the highest levels of board leadership — thank you for helping us build a stronger, more connected Washington County as you continue you to take pride, take part and take the lead.

Not Knowing, and Looking Anyway

Written by Bailey Rafter

I’ve never been what most people would call “an art person.”

Sure, I like art. I like seeing it on gallery walls and hearing it in a concert hall. I like when it comes alive on stage, when I smell it wafting from food tents at fall festivals, or when I taste it on the end of a spoon. But if you asked me to explain what makes a painting technically great or what technique a sculptor used? I’d come up blank. My expertise, if you can call it that, lies more in recognizing the themes and tactics a writer will use to persuade their audience than in identifying the brushstroke technique or symbolic intent behind a displayed work.

So, working at an art museum that is about to unveil an exhibition spanning 200 years of American landscape painting might sound like a mismatch.

But I’ve come to realize it’s not a problem at all.

There’s this misconception that you

have to know art to enjoy it. That without some academic background or mastery of jargon, you’re simply not equipped to understand it. It’s the same kind of gatekeeping that told girls they couldn’t like Star Wars, or that you can’t truly appreciate a musician unless you’ve memorized their entire discography. But the truth is, you don’t need to know every ingredient in a dish to know it tastes good. And you don’t need to dissect a painting’s every element to be moved by it.

In fact, the elitism that tries to make art exclusive and inaccessible isn’t just a modern problem. It’s the same kind of snobbery that once dismissed American landscape painting as second-rate. In the early 19th century, when the Hudson River School painters were setting up their easels and capturing the American wilderness in sweeping, romantic scenes, the European art establishment considered landscapes little more than decoration — one step above paintings of

livestock.

The Hudson River School wasn’t a school in the traditional sense, but more of a movement, a loose group of artists with shared values and concerns. These were painters who loved nature not just for its beauty, but for its meaning. They were anxious about the growing industrialization of the American landscape — worried about forests being cut down, rivers being polluted, natural spaces vanishing before their eyes. Their paintings weren’t just pretty — they were a call to recognize and protect the sublime.

And yet, these artists were also determined to establish the United States as a serious place for art. Their landscapes weren’t just scenic—they were ambitious, idealized visions of what America was and could be. Now more akin to imaginary, given that in much of their work human influence over the natural world was completely erased.

Admittedly, I had to talk to our curator and do some homework to learn all of

this. But what I found surprised me—not just the history, but how much of it resonated.

I may not speak the language of art history fluently, but I do know what it feels like to stand at Pen Mar Park or High Rock here in Maryland and feel your breath catch. I know what it means to fall a little in love with a view and want to hold onto that feeling. And suddenly, I understand what those painters were trying to do — because I’ve tried to do it too, just with different tools.

Good wall text and curatorial notes can deepen the experience, sure. But at its core, art is about connection. And sometimes, that connection doesn’t require translation.

That’s why I’m genuinely excited for In Nature’s Studio: Two Centuries of American Landscape Painting, opening September 13 at the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts. This exhibition brings together more than 60 works by renowned artists like Thomas Birch, Carl Weber, and George Inness — names I’m only just learning, but whose works speak volumes even to newcomers like me. These aren’t just paintings of trees and rivers. They’re windows into how Americans have seen and shaped their land, responded to its beauty, and feared for its future. Whether you come with a deep appreciation for 19th-century technique or, like me, just want to feel something when you stand in front of a

canvas, this show offers plenty of ways to connect. No prior knowledge required — just curiosity.

So no, I’m not an art person. But I’m starting to think maybe no one is, and everyone is — at the same time. Maybe you don’t need to know art, in the classical sense, to be moved by it. Maybe it’s enough to stand before a painting and simply feel something.

That seems like a pretty good place to start.

Fall Art

Written by Nicole Abuhamada

You fell for it. It was a trick — or a trick of the light. You fell for the title — or for a pun. You fell like an autumn leaf — or a skeletonized leaf, first frost clinging to the nerve centers. You arrived here, it is autumn now, and the words fold inward like dusky leaves, not burnished with green and sun, but touched by tongues of pale fire.

We arrive here now, in this fall, to make observances of art, which is to say — life, and the human condition. In adroit, acrobatic display, a ballet is happening; the point shoes are powdered with talcum and a muscular arm contracts and elongates rhythmically,

bracing for the fall. In China, a master calligrapher dips the nib of their pen in the inkwell, plies it to the paper to pen their juébi. On the other side of time, an Olmec girl inspects the shadow cast by her nose in the hematite mirror as she does each and every morning — one day, she will carve portraits in basalt boulders, and then she will carve other things. Marvels. In the dirt basement of your neighborhood club house, the caretaker shakily places a small figurine of a flickering lantern inside a glass jar with tweezers, the final touch of the terrarium. The beetle larvae within hibernate in the soil as the plastic tree, carefully tweezed into place, lets down its loose leaves, one red crisp at a time. Pay attention to all the scribbling speech around us, scribed into the autumn air with a soft graphite lip — Because art has many purposes, and these necessarily resist definition. Lawless, art unseats you—or removes the top of your head, Emily Dickinson. Come occupy the realms of dream — imagination, where anything is possible—where an artist’s job is simply to tell the truth. Fiction writers tell the truth. Makeup artists tell the truth. We arrive at this fall, called upon to contemplate design and style, how it shows up in our everyday: the softspoken undercurrent of the spaces we occupy, the way we show up in the world. Design and style are but intention and voice made manifest, creating great films, and great living rooms—which are never as far apart as one might suppose. There is an undercurrent of both in our daily lives, some-

times art goes undetected, and often it comes unbidden.

Creativity is the birthright of all human beings. Is creating an act of up or down? Making things up, or getting things down? Do we present ourselves with a false binary? The trick of the light is to make head and heart connect. Emotions are how we decide, the science on this is clear. Without feeling, small decisions may be insurmountable, even simple decisions about what we like—sheer red, or scalloped lavender curtains? Without feeling, we may grasp at all the reasons why scalloped edges are preferable to tattered ones, and ultimately fail to choose either, leaving the windows bare in defeat. It is no small feat, for a human to make up ones mind, because it takes a lot of heart to do so.

It was a trick of the light, and you fell for it—the sheer red curtains with the tattered edges making everything pink in the room… the Salvadore Dali print jaunty above the lipstick-green lamp. The transparent piano playing shades of black and white music on grey scales. You reached out and plucked the highest key, because you wanted to hear that one. The note sang in the pink room, not precisely as imagined, but like a film director, you let the performance breathe as the script curled inward, autumn leaf disintegrating in your jean pocket.

As we change the wallpaper, we see the impressions that glue and time left beneath, our homes molting like living creatures entering their next, winged phase. There is always metaphor in the materials — a color that affirms, an

armchair that engenders so many cozy evenings curled up with a great book, an accent that creates movement and lift of the eye.

We find design and style in unusual places — in linoleum cut print and embroidered tea cozy, in woodblock carving and clay shard necklace, in knotted scarf and penciled ornament — we must also sometimes come looking for it.

In the halls and rooms of the Washington County Arts Council we welcome this September The Art of Overcoming: Healing through Creativity; Judith E. Peck: The Gravitas of Trees and George T. Owens, Jr: Painted On grace our spaces in October. In November, we peer Through the Lens 3 with Hagerstown Photographer’s Group, then we bring in the new year with the Best of Local Art.

Local artists come laden with art every week, as work is shifted, replaced, and rotated. The promise of something new emerges from every corner. New authors debut their works at the arts council. Ripples of My Life, a book of poems by Alva Moses, and Sour Apples by Paul Jantzen reveal the human condition in bas-relief while a wirewrapped skeleton key by Jess East adorns the graceful collar bones of a local champion dancer, never to be replicated.

With style and design we will all sashay through the months ahead, napkins a deeper shade of burnt orange press to our graphite lips as autumn presses its brisk cheek to our rosy warm one. But for now, we will sit with these words, and look at our homes, not as places, but as vases — pluck the rose within, pin to our stone fireplace upsidedown, as we kindle the ember. The gravity of petals — up, or down?

See you at the Washington County Arts Council this autumn!

Designing Your Dream Home

Balancing Style and Financial Responsibility

Written by Jacob W. Barr

Designing or redesigning your home is an exciting process, a chance to express your personal taste, enhance your comfort, and create a space that truly reflects your lifestyle. Whether you’re building a new house, renovating a single room, or simply updating furniture and decor, home design can quickly become a costly venture if not approached with a clear plan. To ensure your project aligns with both your aesthetic vision and budget, it’s essential to balance style with responsible planning.

Before purchasing paint swatches or browsing furniture catalogs, define what you want from your space. Do you need more functionality, more natural light, or a more modern look? Are you designing for longevity or short-term comfort? These questions guide the scope of your project and help you prioritize what’s most important, whether it’s upgrading the kitchen for everyday cooking or creating a serene home office.

You’ll also want to identify your style. Is it minimalist, industrial, rustic, modern or a mix of several? Pinning down your aesthetic early can help you avoid unnecessary purchases or mid-project indecision that can drive up costs.

Once your goals are clear, the next step is to establish a realistic budget. This should include not just the obvious costs like materials and labor, but also hidden expenses such as permit fees, design consultations, delivery charges, and contingency funds (usually 10–20% of the total budget for unexpected costs).

Start by asking: How much can I afford to spend without compromising other financial goals (like savings, debt repayment, or investments)?

Will I be financing any part of the project, and if so, at what interest rate?

How can I phase the project to spread out costs over time?

It’s worth getting multiple quotes for any work being done, and don’t be afraid to nego-

tiate or ask for itemized breakdowns. This not only ensures you get a fair deal but helps you understand where your money is going.

In home design, not all upgrades are equal. Certain improvements, like kitchen or bathroom renovations, tend to have a higher return on investment and improve both daily living and resale value. Other upgrades like intricate ceiling details or imported tiles might offer aesthetic appeal but little practical or financial benefit.

Prioritize foundational elements like: Quality flooring and lighting; durable, energy-efficient windows; a functional layout; smart storage solutions.

Once the essentials are covered, you can layer in personal touches like artwork, textiles, and decor that align with your style.

Designing responsibly doesn’t mean cutting corners, it means spending smart. Here’s a general guide:

Save on: Decorative items that can be easily changed (e.g., throw pillows, curtains, rugs); open shelving and DIY projects; repurposed or vintage furniture; paint and wall treatments (a little goes a long way)

Splurge on: Key furniture pieces like a sofa, mattress, or dining table; custom cabinetry or built-in storage; lighting that enhances function and mood; high-traffic flooring materials like hardwood or tile

The goal is to invest in items that offer durability and daily comfort while being mindful of where inexpensive alternatives can suffice.

If your dream design exceeds your current savings, you may be considering financing. Options include home equity loans, personal loans, or lines of credit. Each has its pros and cons. Home equity loans often offer lower interest rates but put your home at risk if you can’t repay. Personal loans are faster to obtain but can carry higher rates.

Only take on debt if you’re confident in your repayment plan and the renovation significantly increases your home’s value or your quality of life. Avoid financing purely

cosmetic updates unless you can repay quickly.

Financially responsible design also considers long-term operating costs. Opting for energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, low-flow plumbing, and sustainable materials might cost more upfront but pay off in reduced utility bills and a smaller environmental footprint.

Think about how your choices age over time, too. Trendy designs may date quickly, while timeless styles stay fresh for decades. Neutral tones, quality finishes, and flexible layouts tend to hold up better and reduce the need for frequent updates.

Before pulling the trigger on any big purchase or major change, take a pause. Revisit your budget, check your goals, and make sure everything aligns. A few days of reflection can save you from costly impulse decisions and design regrets.

You might also consider working with a professional interior designer or consultant, even on a limited basis. They can help avoid common pitfalls, source cost-effective alternatives, and bring your vision to life within budget.

Home design is more than just a visual endeavor; it’s a financial one too. The most successful projects balance creativity with discipline and vision with practicality. With the right planning, you can achieve a home that not only looks beautiful but also supports your lifestyle and long-term financial well-being. A responsible approach ensures that your dream home doesn’t become a financial burden but rather a source of pride, comfort, and value for years to come.

REAL ESTATE TODAY

Toby

Estate Agents in the TriStates for three years in a row.

- Lesley