A snow day conversation at The Reed Center with Ben Friton, soil ecologist and executive director for The Reed Center in Middletown, Maryland, and the “micro-Jordan for the trees. He discusses the environment, biodiversity, and human interaction with nature. Topics include food forests, cultivating crops, soil health, gift economy, and the repercussions of human actions on ecosystems. Ben also discusses the evolution of plants, their adaptability, and the importance of working in harmony with nature through projects and personal experiences. The conversation emphasizes the need to understand and work with nature for sustainable practices and the balance of ecosystems.

🌟 Discover the Power of Partnership at South Mountain! 🌟

🗓️ On January 26 2024, the Winter Partnership Meeting illuminated the path to sustainable development and community building at Gettysburg College. 🌿

🤝 Uniting stakeholders, esteemed speakers—including Adams County Commissioner Marty Karsteter Qually and South Mountain Partnership Executive Director Katie Hess—fostered relationships and encouraged collaboration. 🌎

🎉 More than a gathering, this event celebrated South Mountain’s rich history and its impact on the region. 🏞️ Conservation partners reflected on progress and strategized for the future. 🌲

🌿 Join the mission! Whether you’re a potential partner or simply passionate about conservation, indulge in breakfast snacks and coffee while engaging in meaningful discussions. Visit Link in bio to learn more. 🌟☕🌿

Our latest visit to artists along the pottery trail is with Denise Joyal. She is a ceramicist and educator known for her beautiful and functional pottery work that is inspired by Neolithic Irish stone constructs. She brings a unique blend of technical skill and artistic vision to her work, which often features illustrated mishima designs. Denise is also an active member of her local community, hosting clay wood firings to share her craft with others. Those interested in her work can add a piece from Kilnjoy Ceramics to their collection or attend one of Denise's exhibitions or firings to experience her art firsthand.

Our next article on the Washington County Pottery trail brings us into the life of Allison Coles Severance. Allison is a master potter known for her unique approach to clay and her ability to create beautiful and functional pieces. Her pottery studio is located in the Appalachian foothills of Western Maryland, where her sense of style and attention to the details provides a tranquil environment that inspires her creations. Allison's work reflects her passion and dedication to her craft, and her work is a testament to the intersection of art and functionality, and she invites others to explore pottery and start their own journey. As Allison said, each piece of pottery "at the table– decorated with food and passed around by hand – will eventually come to life. My pots send out a visual invitation to be held in the hand."