Page 2
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, October 3, 2019
Thursday, October 3, 2019
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Page 3
Exterior Renovations that Improve Curb Appeal MetroCreative Neglecting a home’s exterior can be a disservice to homeowners, particularly those looking to increase the value of their homes. Curb appeal is important, as a home’s appearance can greatly affect prospective buyers’ perceptions. Knowing which projects can offer the most bang for their remodeling buck can help homeowners make the right choices when improving the exterior of their homes. The following are some areas where homeowners can direct their focus if their end goal is a great-looking home with added value, as determined by the 2019 “Cost vs. Value Report” from Remodeling magazine. This report compares the average cost of 22 remodeling projects with the value those projects retain at resale across 136 markets. • Garage door replacement: Homeowners can recoup 97.5 percent of their investment on a new garage door. This remodel tops the list for good looks and value. The average cost of $3,611 is for replacing an existing two-car garage. • Manufactured stone veneer: Replacing a portion of vinyl siding with stone veneer can greatly improve curb appeal, adding style that can set a home apart. Homeowners can expect to recoup a 94.9 percent return on their investment. • Wood deck addition: A wooden deck on the rear or side of a home enhances homeowners’ ability to enjoy the outdoors yearround. A wood deck addition recoups 75.6 of the cost of homeowners’ initial investment. • Siding replacement: Not only does old
Curb appeal is important, as a home’s appearance can greatly affect prospective buyers’ perceptions.
or weathered siding look unsightly, it can impact the energy efficiency of a home. Even though a siding replacement project is costly — at roughly $16,000 — it offers a 75 percent return and peace of mind that the home is being well-protected from the elements. • New entry door: Replacing an existing
door with a 20-gauge steel door complete with clear dual-pane half-glass panel, jambs and an aluminum threshold with composite stop gets homeowners 75 percent of their initial investment back at resale. Improving the door isn’t all about good looks, either. A door that isn’t well-insulated or secure can be
problematic. In addition to these improvements, homeowners would be wise to focus on some upgraded landscaping, an upgraded roof, new windows, and improved exterior lighting as surefire ways to add curb appeal and potential value to their homes.
Page 4
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, October 3, 2019
These Treats are Staples Of Halloween Celebrations MetroCreative
Kids can’t celebrate Halloween without asking neighbors “Trick or treat?” Pranks might be part and parcel of Halloween, but treats are what many goblins and ghouls anticipate the most come October 31. Youngsters are not the only ones who look forward to the sweets that are synonymous with Halloween. Adults also indulge their sweet tooths on Halloween. The following are some treats that simply must be part of all the fiendish festivities this Halloween. • Candy: The National Confectioners Association estimated that, in 2018, Halloween would generate $9 billion in candy sales. In fact, the NCA notes that Halloween, despite being just a single day, accounts for about 8 percent of annual confectionary sales. To say that trick-or-treaters and other Halloween celebrants would be disappointed if candy was not part of Halloween celebrations would be an understatement. • Chocolate: Chocolate often finds its way into candy bars, but chocolate also can stand on its own, especially on Halloween. In its U.S. Food Market Outlook 2018 report, the market research firm Packaged Facts found that the Halloween season is the fourth most lucrative season of the year for chocolate sales. Celebrants who don’t have any chocolate to offer this Halloween may find themselves on the receiving end of a few tricks. • Candied apples: Each Halloween, candied apples reappear. Though rarely seen throughout the rest of the year, candied
apples are perhaps an ideal treat for Halloween, which occurs right in the heart of apple-picking season. • Pumpkin seeds: Carving jack-o’-lanterns is a beloved Halloween tradition in many households. If yours is a home where pumpkin seeds are typically discarded, this year you can consider making better use of them by eating them. Pumpkin seeds are great sources of fiber, and the World Health Organization notes that they have long been a great source of zinc. Roasted pumpkin seeds make for a great and nutritious snack when turning ordinary pumpkins into scary jack-o’-lanterns. Food is a big part of Halloween, and certain items simply must be a part of the culinary experience on this beloved holiday.
Thursday, October 3, 2019
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Prepare Your Deck for Winter MetroCreative Homeowners often take steps to winterize the interior of their homes in the weeks before winter’s arrival, but such efforts should extend to the outside of a home as well. Decks make for great gathering places when the weather permits. Decks are where many people spend their free time and eat their meals come spring and summer, when the temperatures climb and the sun sets well into the evening. But as summer turns to fall, homeowners must take measures to protect their decks from potentially harsh winter weather. • Inspect the deck for problems. Decks tend to be used more often in summer than any other time of year. That makes fall and early winter an ideal time to inspect for wear and tear and any additional issues that may have cropped up throughout the summer. Damaged boards and loose handrails should be fixed before winter arrives, especially for homeowners who plan to use their decks in winter. Fixing such issues in winter and even into spring may be difficult thanks to harsh conditions, so make good use of the relatively calm autumn weather to fix any issues on the deck. • Clear the deck of potted plants. Even
homeowners who intend to use their decks in winter should remove potted plants from the deck in the fall. The home improvement experts at HGTV note that moisture can get trapped between deck boards and plastic, wood or ceramic containers in cold weather, and that can contribute to mildew, discoloration or decay. • Store unnecessary furniture. Homeowners who like to sit on their decks in winter will no doubt want to leave some furniture out over the winter. But those with lots of furniture for entertaining guests can likely move the majority of that furniture into a garage or shed for the winter. HGTV notes that doing so will prevent the potential formation of blemishes on the deck that can result from inconsistent weathering. • Remove snow, but do so carefully. Prolonged contact with snow and ice can damage a deck. As a result, homeowners should clear snow from their decks when accumulation is significant. HGTV recommends using a snow blower on the deck to avoid scarring. If a shovel must be used, push snow with the planks to reduce the risk of damaging the deck. Homeowners who take steps to protect their decks throughout the winter months can ensure these popular areas are ready once entertaining season returns in the spring.
Add a Pop of Color to Your Garden MetroCreative Winter weather comes on the heels of a vibrant, colorful autumn season. Shortly after fall foliage falls to the ground, nature tends to greet us with a considerably less colorful palette. What’s more, much of the wildlife and plants that make spring, summer and fall so awe-inspiring tend to hibernate in winter, making it more difficult to find bright spots on drab days. If you think that winter means the end of beautiful garden colors, think again. There are plenty of cool-season flowers and other plants that can add a pop of color to brighten your day. These flowers provide color right when most people need it most. In areas where winter is not marked by a deep freeze, homeowners can plant pansies, snapdragons, English daisies, calendula, and other blooms from early fall through late winter. These plants will survive the cold, keeping containers, borders and gardens full of color. Camellias are a type of flower that bloom in fall and winter in hues of red, pink, coral, white, and more. The plants are evergreen and will grow from shrubs or small trees when fully established.
Homeowners who live in climates marked by cold winters can opt for plants that offer color but without flowers. According to HGTV, these include cabbages and kales, which can survive most cold winters and lend an interesting texture to a winter landscape bed. Of course, no list of winter’s colorful plants would be complete without holly, which offers an eye-catching display of evergreen leaves and bright red berries, though sometimes the berries are golden. Either way, they can be a sight for sore eyes on gray winter days. For more ideas, visit a local garden center to learn about plants that can add vibrant color to a landscape, even as autumn transitions to winter.
Page 5
Page 6
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, October 3, 2019
Huntsburg Pumpkin Festival Marks 50 Years
Submitted
The annual Huntsburg Pumpkin Festival, held Oct. 5 and 6, will mark five decades of family-oriented, fall-themed fun. There is no entrance fee and all contests, entertainment and attractions are free at the event, held at state Routes 528 and 322. The festival also offers free parking and a free shuttle service from the parking areas to the festival grounds from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. A pancake and waffle breakfast will start at 8:30 a.m. both days served in the township town hall. Many vendors and crafters will fill two buildings along with a midway of fabulous food. Join in one of the free contests — ribbons and trophies will be awarded to the winners. This year, attractions include Outback Ray, Classic Car Show, Melanie May, Fort Huntsburg Country Band, Cardinal School Show Choir the Cardinaires, The Cardinal Marching Band, Bagpipe performance by Geauga Highlanders, The Usual Suspects Band, K-9 Demos by Geauga County Sheriff’s Department, The University Hospital Pet Pals and the Walnut Hill Cloggers. The Super Parade is Sunday at 2:15 p.m. General Information and schedule of events can be found at destinationgeauga. com and huntsburgpumpkinfestival.com.
Huntsburg Pumpkin Run
Celebrating another year, the Huntsburg Pumpkin Run traverses a scenic part of the Buckeye Trail. The Pumpkin Run, held Oct. 6, starts at 9 a.m. Registration begins at 8 a.m. at the Grandview Golf Club parking lot. Entry fee is $15 with a free T-shirt given to the first 50 people who enter. Headwaters Park is a 96-acre reservation located in Claridon and Huntsburg townships. The trail winds alongside the water, over a stream, through fields and woods, offering a peaceful and scenic run. Sponsored by Dr. Bob Evans, Lucas Pest Management Co., Marge’s Smoke Shop Ltd., KT’s Custom Logos, Huntington Bank, Frank Martuccio Asphalt & Paving, Silvercreek Veterinary Clinic, Inc., Schneiders Saddlery, Chelsea Nau Performing Horses, Fitness Plus, Our Furry Friends and Sages Apples.
Pancake Breakfast
The pancake breakfast is open each day from 8:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. It features all you can eat pancakes and Belgium waffles with sausage, orange juice, real maple syrup and a variety of hot beverages. Fowler Milling Company’s buttermilk and pumpkin pancake mix will be served, as well as Bob Evans Original Sausage Links with natural maple syrup from Huntsburg maple syrup producers. Adults cost $7, seniors cost $6, children ages 5-12 cost $4, children under 5 are free.
Wanted: Floats for the Huntsburg Pumpkin Festival Parade
The parade will be held Oct. 6, 2:15 p.m. The theme: “Celebrating 50 Years.” Contact Michele at 440-636-3368. Award will be given for the best dressed pet in costume, by Schneider Saddlery.
Carved and Decorated Pumpkin Show
Entries should be brought to the Huntsburg Center Pavilion on Oct. 5 between 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. All entries must remain until 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 6. The categories are as follows: • Adult Carved Pumpkin (ages 13 and up); • Adult Decorated Pumpkin (ages 13 and up); • Youth Carved Pumpkin (ages 12 and under); • Youth Decorated Pumpkin (ages 12 and under); • Scarecrows: Standing, sitting, straw, wood or newspaper – anything goes (Head need not be pumpkin); • Totem Poles: Five or more pumpkins, squash or gourds.
Baking Contest
Register Oct. 5 by 8 a.m. at the town hall. Judging will be held at 10 a.m. All entries must contain pumpkin as one of the ingredients. Categories are: Under 13, Anything Pumpkin and Pumpkin Pie. Bakers 13 and older may enter traditional pumpkin pies, cakes, breads and other items. Non-traditional pumpkin pies will be entered in the other category. See Pumpkins • Page 7
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, October 3, 2019
Page 7
SUBMITTED
You can count on your local team from Jack Stankus Inc. for your heating and cooling needs. Call 440-543-5000 for more information.
Pumpkins from page 6
Tot King & Queen Contest
Ages 4-6 may register in the town hall Oct. 5 at 10 a.m. Call Jeannette at 440-636-5354.
Giant Pumpkin Show
Register and weigh in on Oct. 3 between 6-8 p.m. at the Huntsburg Center Pavilion. Call Jerry at 440-636-5145. • Largest Pumpkin – Cash award, judged on natural weight; • Natural Field Pumpkin – judged on largest size; • Largest Zucchini – judged on natural weight; • Largest Potato - judged on natural weight; • Largest Sunflower – judged on width of head.
Classic Car Show
Rain or shine, bring your favorite classic automobile Oct. 5 and 6, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. behind Huntsburg Elementary School. People’s choice trophy will be awarded, as well as driver’s trophy and kid’s pic trophy each day and a cash prize. A participation plaque will also be given for the first 20 cars that arrive each day. There will be no admission fee.
Pumpkin Queen Contest Contest is for high school girls in the 10th, 11th and 12th grades in all Geauga County schools. Please call Diane Hunt at 440-552-4264 by Sept. 29. A cash prize will be awarded to the elected queen.
Junior Queen Contest Contest for middle school girls in sixth, seventh and eighth grades attending any Geauga County school. A cash prize will be awarded to the elected queen. To register, call Jessica Jackson 440-636-3172 by Sept, 29.
Archery Shoot Geauga Bowmen supports the National Archery in the Schools Program, and partners with various Boy Scouts of America Troops around Northeast Ohio. All archery shoots at Geauga Bowmen Archery Club are youth-friendly and beginner-friendly, and equipment is available for use. The Geauga Bowmen Archery Club was founded in 1953. Since then, it has been operating its club grounds on approximately 65 acres of rugged wooded terrain perfectly suited for archery. It maintains five unique courses, including a practice range and pavilion. Visit geaugabowmen.com for more information. The club is at 12525 Sperry Road.
Canadian Military Tested • Top Rust Proofing • Corrosion Free • Rated No. 1• 94% Inhibition Rate
CURE
FOR
Brine & Salt
PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT
AUTO RUSTPROOFING
doesn’t get any better than this! Corrosion FREE is a clean, clear, drip-free lubricant gel. It will never crack or peel. It is especially formulated for today’s better built vehicle. It protects all metals, not just steel. For older vehicles, it releases cleaners and moisture inhibitors to penetrate and treat damaged areas, establishing a basis for the Cure for Rust.™ A treatment at least once every 18 months is the best protection you can give your vehicle.
Velotta Auto Service 10874 Chillicothe Rd.| Kirtland, OH 44094 | 440-256-1226 Mon–Fri 8:30am - 5:00pm
Go to www.corrosionfree.com for free information
Geauga Count
Page 8 Page Sponsored by
50 thAnnual
Saturday, October 5
8:00 am Register for Baking Contest in the Town Hall Sponsor Newbury Business Park, Chuck & Nancy White 8:30 – 11:30 Pancake & Belgium Waffle Breakfast in the Town Hall 9:00 Register for the Car Show behind the Huntsburg Community Center Sponsors JFD Landscapes Inc. and Preston Superstore
9:30 10:00
Register for the Decorated & Carved Pumpkin Show Sponsor M.A, Miller LLC Festival Opens/ Craft Buildings Open Tot King & Queen Registration in the Town Hall
Sponsors Middlefield Banking Company & Trucker’s Choice
K-9 Demo by Geauga Co Sheriff’s Dept. 10:45 Apple Peeling Contest Ages 16 & Up Sponsor J. P. Gas 11:20-2:20 Songs by Melanie May Sponsor Tim Frank Septic Tank Cleaning Co. Pumpkin Queen & Jr. Pumpkin Queen Finalists & Crowning in the Town Hall Sponsor Preston Superstore. 12:00 Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest Ages 5-12 and Ages 13 & Up Sponsor Chow Down Catering
1:00 2:30 3:00 – 5:00 3:30 4:00 – 6:00
Crowning Tot King & Queen Sponsors Middlefield Banking Company & Trucker’s Choice Bubble Gum Blowing Contest – Ages 3-8 & Ages 9-14 Sponsor Clay Trucking Outback Ray and his animals Sponsor Townsend Machine Hobo Bingo begins in Town Hall by the Huntsburg Grange Kid’s Parade and Pumpkin Roll Sponsor Diamonds in the “Ruff”. Fort Huntsburg Country Band
Classic Car Show People’s Choice, Driver’s Choice and Kid Pic Award
4:00 – 6:30 4:30 5:00 6:00
Turkey Dinner at Huntsburg Congregational Church. Rock Toss ages 16 & up Sponsor Solid Rock Landscaping. Nail Pounding Sponsor Carter Lumber Middlefield. Egg Toss Sponsor J.P. Gas and Clay Trucking
Sponsor T & T Heavy Equipment Repair LLC. Tony & Tammy Zalar Sponsors JFD Landscapes Inc. and Preston Superstore
Geauga Bowman will again offer Archery Skills and Demonstrations throughout the day • Free Park
ty Maple Leaf
Page 9 Page Sponsored by
State Routes 528 & 322
Sunday, October 6
8:00 AM Pumpkin Run Registration at Grandview Golf Club Sponsors - Dr. Bob Evans, Huntington Banks, Silvercreek Veterinary Clinic Inc.,
Martuccio Asphalt & Paving, Chelsea Nau Performing Horses, KT’s Custom Logos, Lucas Pest Management, Marge’s Smoke Shop, Sage’s Apples, Our Furry Friends and Fitness Plus
Sponsors JFD Landscapes Inc. and Preston Superstore
8:30 – 11:30 Pancake & Belgium Waffle Breakfast in the Town Hall 9:00 Pumpkin Run Starts at Geauga Park District’s Headwater’s Park 13365 Old State Road Register for the Car Show behind the Community Center 10:00 Festival Opens/Crafters Open K-9 Demo by Geauga Co. Sheriff’s Dept. 10:45 Apple Peeling Contest – Age 16 & Up Sponsor J. P. Gas 11:15 University Hospitals Pet Pals 11:45 -2:15 The Usual Suspects Band Sponsor Rolling Green Golf Club and A & G Trucking 1:00 Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest Ages 5-12 and Ages 13 & Up Sponsor Chow Down Catering 2:15 Parade Begins Sponsors Claridon Market Xpress BP 2:45 Cardinal School Marching Band Performance Sponsor Creative Mold & Machine 3:00-5:00 Hobo Bingo Begins in Town Hall by Huntsburg Grange 3:15 Highlanders Bagpipes & Drum Performance Sponsors The Kinney’s 3:45 Classic Car Show People’s Choice People’s Choice, Driver’s Choice & Kid Pic Award Sponsors JFD Landscapes Inc. and Preston Superstore Bubble Gum Blowing Contest Ages 3-8 and Ages 9-14 Sponsor J. P. Gas 4:00 Cardinaires’ Performance Sponsor Jim & Debbie Petkovic and The Lechenes 4:30 Nail Pounding Contest Age 16 and Up Sponsor Carter Lumber Middlefield 5:00 Walnut Hill Cloggers Sponsor Hambden Tire 5:30 Rock Toss Age 16 and Up under 16 Sponsor Solid Rock Landscaping 5:45 Egg Toss Sponsor J.P. Gas and Clay Trucking 6:00 Basket Raffle Drawings
king and Shuttle service sponsored by NOPEC • Demonstrations by Wood Carver The Insane Chain
Page 10
Geauga County Maple Leaf
www.GeaugaMapleLeaf.com
Thursday, October 3, 2019
Art and Entertaining with Style Submitted Fall is the time of year that makes for a beautiful escape to the country and an opportunity to bring something unique into your home. A drive to Artisans’ Corner Gallery in Newbury Township will not only allow you to experience the evolving fall scenery that is notorious for Northeast Ohio, but you will also enjoy the experience of perusing the creative one-of-a-kind handcrafted items available in the gallery. As fall sets upon us, it brings the season for family gatherings and get-togethers with friends. Entertaining with style is easy with many possibilities offered with several local potters providing a collection of wine chillers, brie bakers, apple bakers, garlic graters, serving bowls and chip-n-dip platters. While you create your delicious appetizers, dinners, or desserts that, too, can be done in style with one of our reversible aprons sporting fun holiday themes. The rich functionality doesn’t stop there. We carry many items from local woodworkers such as cutting boards, bread knives, bowls, wine holders and beer taps. It can be easy to make your home cozy by bringing some warmth and sunshine into your living spaces through artwork, perhaps by visiting faraway places through photography or watercolor paintings. Art can bring
focus to your style and provide a beautiful escape. Maybe you have a particular item that would be the perfect addition to your decor; custom framing can turn any object or collection to a very personal work of art. Although the gallery looks small from the front of the plaza, when you walk through the front door, you will be amazed at how beautifully displayed our Ohio Artisans work showcased in this large gallery with a diverse assortment of handcrafted art and gifts. Artisans’ Corner Gallery is proud to provide many creative gift options for your friends, family members, and co-workers. The gallery offers gift options starting under $10, including handmade greeting cards, bottle-cap magnets, soaps, ribbon cords and so much more. Fall also brings a full calendar of one-day workshops, and we look forward to hosting a wide variety of opportunities for you to make and take your very own gift, getting a little crafty for some great holiday projects. Visiting our website (artisanscornergallery. com) will give you a complete list of upcoming events. Artisans’ Corner Gallery, 11110 Kinsman Road, is located in the Newbury Center Plaza, northeast corner of the intersection of Kinsman (state Route 87) and Auburn roads. Call 440-739-4128 for more information.
Interesting Facts about Fall MetroCreative Weather is often the first indicator that the seasons are changing. For many people across the globe, the hot days of summer will soon be giving way to the more crisp days of fall. For those who live in regions where summer only subtly gives way to fall or is seemingly gone before the end of August, the 2019 autumnal equinox occurs on September 23. That marks the official beginning of fall, also known as autumn. In fact, that the season the follows summer seemingly goes by two dif-
ferent names is just one of many interesting facts about fall. • A season by any other name … Fall is the term most often used to reference the season succeeding summer in the United States. But the season is referred to as “autumn” in other parts of the world, including Great Britain. Fall was once even known as “harvest” because of the harvest moon, which appears close to the autumnal equinox. • The colors of fall foliage are actually present year-round. Fall is known for its See Fall • Page 13
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, October 3, 2019
Wood paneling can add a rustic feel to a bathroom.
This Design Trend is Coming Back MetroCreative Design trends come and go, but some have a funny way of resurfacing years after they first became popular. Homeowners who may have been considering renovating their home to remove a design element they believe to be passÊ might want to see if that feature has experienced a resurgence in popularity. In fact, one of the more derided home decor trends of yesteryear has slowly crept back into style, albeit in moderation. Wood paneling is back and better than ever, advise many design professionals. It’s the formerly ugly duckling that filled homes starting in the 1950s, creating drab dens and faux-wood family rooms. Paneling had long been an element of choice because it is relatively easy to install and can camouflage problem walls in a home, like those covered in boisterous wallpaper prints. Wood paneling reach the peak of its popularity in the 1970s, and since then homeowners have been tearing down these faux offenders for years or masking them in paint to brighten up spaces. However, the experts at Apartment Therapy report that wood paneling in shades of brown are making a comeback in cozy spots such as dens or studies. The warm tones of wood paneling elicit a retro vibe. But unlike their fake predecessors,
today’s paneled walls are being outfitted in real wood, making them more eco-friendly and stylish than ever before. Designers have flocked to reclaimed wood and veneer panelings to incorporate them into design elements. And while wood paneling used to be hung vertically, designers now experiment with hanging paneling. Many people no longer use paneling to cover an entire space. Paneling is used sparingly as an accent wall or another feature for character. Wood walls can be stained in a rich mahogany to look upscale or be weathered and rustic. Homeowners ready to re-embrace wood paneling can choose to enhance one wall in a room. Think about the space above a fireplace or a strip of wall behind a sitting chair and side table. Paneling also can serve as a headboard behind a bed in a master suite. Painted horizonally, paneling can add dimension and texture to walls, even in a bathroom. Wood paneling is slowly making a comeback, proving that no design trend every truly goes away.
Page 11
Page 12
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, October 3, 2019
Investing in a New Kitchen is a Recipe for Success Submitted According to the experts, remodeling your kitchen can make financial sense. The return on investment can range from 91 percent to 98 percent, but the real benefit is adding to the quality of life for the cook and the family. The kitchen is the heart of the home, the central gathering place, where everyone loves to be. If you’re ready for a kitchen makeover, but have the same trepidation as most homeowners, wondering “where do I start?”
you’re in luck. Store with Style has everything you need, all in one place, with customer service and attention to detail that has made us a ‘go to’ for many of your neighbors around Lake and Geauga counties. We have an A+ rating with the BBB and Angie’s List Super Service awards for five years running. Our certified kitchen and bath designer also holds a certification for aging in place design and as a general remodeler. We have a design plan in place that will take you through every step of the process with one
point of contact and an emphasis on one stop shopping. On display in our Tyler Boulevard Mentor showroom are beautiful Wellborn Cabinets, with Cambria quartz countertops. Hundreds of door styles and finishes to choose from, and, best of all, both Wellborn and Cambria are proudly made in the USA. We also have a complete closet and garage cabinetry showroom. Our team will walk you through your selections from flooring, to paint, cabinets, counters, lighting, hardware and more.
We partner with many Lake and Geauga County businesses to insure you have reliable suppliers in your neighborhood. If you’re already working with a contractor and they’re telling you to start shopping, no worries. We are ‘contractor’ friendly and can work together to deliver you the kitchen of your dreams. So, if you’re ready to take the first step towards your new kitchen call us first. We are the only stop you’ll need to make your dream kitchen a reality. Call us today at 440974-8201.
Consistent Care Will Keep Your Furnace Functioning Efficiently Submitted Cleveland winters are frigid, but your home is toasty — unless your furnace breaks down. To keep your heating system running efficiently and effectively, yearly maintenance is a must. “People have become very accustomed to changing the oil in their cars, and they understand that if they change their oil regularly then their cars will last longer and have fewer breakdowns,” said Steve Smylie, co-owner of Smylie One. “If you maintain your heating system yearly, you’ll find that your equipment runs more efficiently, that it has a longer life expectancy, and that your home will maintain
a more comfortable climate.” The Smylie One family has been servicing Northeast Ohio families and communities for more than 65 years. They are proudly in their third generation in the HVAC industry. “We provide trustworthy and affordable HVAC and plumbing services and take pride in getting the job done right,” Gary Rosen said. “It all starts with our culture. We like to take a customer who calls for the first time and then earn their business every time we come out.” Many homeowners are unaware their heating systems are running poorly and how much money is being wasted in the process. It not only costs more in energy bills, but also
can cause further damage to the system that could necessitate costly repairs and even replacement of the furnace. To avoid waking up in the middle of a winter’s night to an unheated house and unhappy family, the most valuable advice Smylie One can offer its customers is to schedule maintenance on their heating equipment. “If you don’t do it for energy conservation and efficiency, do it to give you and your family peace of mind for the heating season,” Steve said. Don’t forget that with the cold weather on the horizon, it may be time to consider a whole house automatic humidifier. Eliminate itchy cracked skin, dry nasal passages, stat-
ic electricity shocks and cracked woodwork. Adding a humidifier to your system will help maximize comfort and minimize these conditions that affect your entire family. To ensure every inspection its technicians perform is completed thoroughly and correctly, Smylie One developed the Pro-Max Tune-up & Safety Inspection. With over 30 points of inspection, this is one of the most comprehensive checks your furnace can have to ensure that your family is safe and comfortable this winter. Visit www.smylieone.com for more information or call 440-449-HEAT (4328) to set up your preferred maintenance appointment today.
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, October 3, 2019
Protect Your Plants From Winter Weather MetroCreative For the majority of gardening enthusiasts, gardening is a warm weather activity. While some people live in climates that make it possible to enjoy gardening year-round, those who don’t often lament the end of the gardening season. Winter might not be conducive to gardening, but the arrival of cold weather does not necessarily mean a gardener’s work is done until the following spring. Taking steps to protect plants from winter weather is an important part of maintaining a healthy garden that thrives from year to year. Timing is of the essence when winterizing a garden. The online gardening resource Get Busy Gardening! advises gardeners that the best time to winterize is after the first hard freeze in the fall. A hard freeze occurs when temperatures dip below freezing overnight. When that occurs, annual plants and vegetables are killed off and perennial plants, which grow back year after year, begin going dormant. Better Homes and Gardens notes that perennials are the easiest plants to prepare for winter, as they require just a little cutting back and mulching to be safe from cold weather. But no two perennials are alike, so homeowners should consult their local gardening center for advice on how to prepare their particular perennials for the coming months. The steps necessary to winterize annuals depends on which type of annuals, cool- or warm-climate, you have. Cool-climate annuals should be covered with polyspun garden fabric when light frost is in the forecast. In addition, Better Homes and Gardens recommends pulling dead annuals and adding them to a compost pile after a killing frost. Any annuals that developed fungal disease should be discarded. Mulch annual beds with a three- to four-inch layer of chopped leaves or similar materials, spreading the mulch only two inch-
Fall
from page 10 colorful foliage. But the pigments responsible for those colors are actually present year-round. According to the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, green, yellow and orange pigments are present year-round. However, during spring and summer, the leaves serve as factories where many foods necessary to help the tree grow are manufactured. That process takes place in the leaf in cells containing chlorophyll, which gives the leaves their green color. This process ceases as
es thick over self-sown seeds you want to germinate in the spring. Warm-climate annuals also should be covered with polyspun garden fabric when light frost is expected. Seeds of cold-hardy annuals can be planted for extended winter bloom, while gardeners also can collect seeds of warm-weather plants that will breed true to type. Even though you’re winterizing, Better Homes and Gardens recommends that gardeners continue to weed and water their plant beds and plants while also keeping an eye out for pests. If organic mulch has decomposed or thinned out, replace it with a new layer. Get Busy Gardening! notes that the bulbs of tender plants like dahlias and tuberous begonias can be dug up and overwintered in their dormant state. All dead foliage should be removed after the bulbs have been dug up, and the bulbs should be allowed to dry out a little before being stored. Container gardeners can overwinter their tender bulbs in their pots inside, but be sure to remove their foliage and store them in a dark, cool place that maintains temperatures above freezing. Winterizing may mark the end of gardening season, but it’s an important task that can ensure a healthy, beautiful garden next spring, summer and fall. hours of daylight decrease and temperatures drop. As a result, chlorophyll breaks down, the green color disappears and the vivid colors of fall foliage begin to appear. • Squirrels have a (sophisticated) plan out there. Squirrels hiding food in autumn for the upcoming winter is a familiar sight. And squirrels are more organized than many people may know. Groundbreaking research released in 1991 found that, even when squirrels bury that stash of nuts closely to one another, they will each return to the precise location of their personal cache. Recent research also has shown that squirrels bury their stash based on certain traits, such as the type of nut being buried.
– 2 WEEKS ONLY –
30
% STOREWIDE OFF
ON LOWEST TICKETED PRICE
Upholstery / Slipcovers Fabric Sales Wood Refinishing & Repairs
210 Washington St. Chardon (440)285-4009 wcdfabrics@yahoo.com
Draperies / Blinds
cwfabrics.com
Interior Design
Page 13
Page 14
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, October 3, 2019
Learn How to Carve – and Preserve – a Better Pumpkin MetroCreative Toothy grins and a mesmerizing orange glow help make jack-o’-lanterns captivating sights come Halloween. Pumpkin carving is an autumn tradition and runs the gamut of simple designs to more intricate artwork worthy of any medium. Although anyone can grab a pumpkin and get started, when done correctly, jack-o’-lantern designs can last for several days. • Start with a fresh pumpkin. Look for pumpkins that have a thick, green stem. These usually are fresh and haven’t been handled much. A thick stem also may indicate fleshier pumpkin walls that can be carved more easily. Avoid pumpkins that are soft or full of blemishes, or those that have dried, shriveled stems. Select pumpkins with even color and firm flesh, and make sure that the pumpkin doesn’t feel tender when you push on the skin. • Visit local pumpkin stands. Pumpkins that have been shipped miles and miles in hot cargo trucks may be overly ripened or battered. Pumpkins that were grown nearby may be fresher. Plus, buying pumpkins locally supports local farmers. • Cut a hole in the back. Rather than impeding the structural integrity of the pumpkin by cutting off the top and the stem for interior access, cut a hole in the back of the pumpkin. This will still make it easy to reach inside and clean out the pumpkin. • Scoop out the pulp and seeds. Be sure to thoroughly clean the inside of the pumpkin. Leaving the pulpy, stringy matter and seeds inside can cause the pumpkin to rot
that much faster and produce a foul odor. Scoopers, spoons and even hand shovels can help. The pumpkin carving experts at Pumpkin Masters recommend scraping as much of the “guts” out as possible, leaving about a one-inch thickness of the wall of the pumpkin. • Keep it out of the elements. Store carved pumpkins in a cool, dry place. This will help slow down the rotting process for pumpkins exposed to outdoor fungi, other microbes and warm sunlight. • Keep it cool. Heat can adversely affect carved pumpkins, so work in a cool area and store the pumpkin in a cold garage or refrigerator if you need a few extra days before displaying it. Also, carving experts suggest using an electric light inside rather than a candle; by using a candle, you’re essentially cooking the pumpkin from the inside. • Work in your lap. When carving faces or intricate designs, looking down onto the pumpkin provides more control. • Don’t cut all the way through. Many pumpkin designers end up shaving or scraping off the outer rind of the pumpkin, but leave a delicate orange film underneath. Light can still shine through, but the design will not collapse on itself as easily if you were to cut straight through the pumpkin wall. Experiment with different tools to achieve the desired look. • Maintain the freshness. Rubbing exposed areas of the pumpkin flesh with petroleum jelly may help keep the pumpkin moist. Some designs will last for a few days. However, since pumpkins are highly perishable,
it’s wise to wait to carve until a day or two before putting a pumpkin on display. In lieu of carving, paint or decorate pumpkins in other ways if you want them to stay fresh for a long time. Glow in the dark paint can help
pumpkins stand out at night. Carved pumpkins may last a week or two, while uncut pumpkins can last for a month or more. Keeping pumpkins hydrated and moldfree will prolong your designs.
Thursday, October 3, 2019
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Page 15
Things to Consider Before Warming Up Next to Your Fire MetroCreative A warm fire can make even the coldest winter day more enjoyable. Fireplaces may not get much use in spring or summer, but come late fall and throughout the winter, the fireplace can be a great place for families to gather. Before fireplace season hits full swing, homeowners might want to brush up on a few fireplace facts so they can safely enjoy nights spent sitting by the crackling flames. The Chimney Safety Institute of America advises homeowners with fireplaces to hire a CSIA-certified chimney sweep to clean their fireplaces. After a lengthly period of non-use, various issues could be affecting the chimney, many of which might not be noticeable to an untrained eye. Professional, certified chimney sweeps have extensive knowledge of fireplaces, making them valuable resources who can let homeowners know if any safety issues developed since fireplaces were last used. The National Protection Agency recommends that chimneys be swept at least once per year. A full inspection of the chimney might be in order as well. Chimney service technicians will conduct thorough examinations of readily accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior and accessible portions of the appliance and the chimney connection. The CSIA recommends that homeowners who plan to use their chimneys as they have in the past request a Level 1 inspection, which will examine the soundness of the chimney structure and flue as well as the basic appliance installation and
connections. Technicians also will verify if the chimney is free of obstruction and combustible deposits. Homeowners also should inspect their chimney dampers before lighting their first fires of the season. Dampers should open and close smoothly. If not, a service technician can help fix or replace the damper. Firewood is another thing homeowners must consider before lighting their first fires of the season. The CSIA says that well-seasoned firewood works best, noting that wood that is not well-seasoned will produce more smoke than heat. In addition, the home improvement resource This Old House recommends using dense wood that’s been split and stored in a high and dry place for at least six months. Oak is an example of dense wood that, when stored properly, can make for an enjoyable fireplace experience. Avoid softwoods like pine. Pine can produce a lot of creosote, which is a byproduct of wood combustion. Creosote is highly flammable, and as it builds up in a chimney, the risk for a chimney fire increases. Choosing the right wood, making sure it’s well-seasoned and having a chimney professionally cleaned can reduce the risk of a creosote-related chimney fire. A Level 1 inspection should determine if there are potentially dangerous levels of creosote deposits in the chimney. Before nestling up to a fireplace this winter, homeowners should consider a host of factors and safety measures to ensure their fireplaces are safe and ready for the season ahead.
twomenandatruck.com PUCO 136623-HG
Page 16
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, October 3, 2019
Make Trick-or-Treating Fun in Rural Areas MetroCreative Halloween is a day for ghouls and goblins, tricks and treats. Halloween is a child’s dream, and some of the more indelible images associated with this beloved holiday feature neighborhood children ringing doors all across suburbia and urban centers. But country kids celebrate Halloween, too. Did you know that, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, urban areas make up just 3 percent of the land area of the United States? Twenty percent of the population calls the countryside home. The numbers are quite similar in Canada, where Statistics Canada indicates roughly 18 percent of the population resides in rural areas. Children who live in rural areas can still experience the magic of Halloween. They just may need to be a little more creative in their pursuit of candy.
Designate a driver
Many children in rural areas find the distances between two houses are simply too great to walk. As a result, youngsters need the help of a parent or older sibling to helm the wheel and take them around to various homes in the area. The process can be made even more festive by listening to spooky songs along the way and decorating the vehicle with some Halloween imagery.
Head to town
Another work-around to rural Halloween celebrations is to move the trick-or-treating
Country kids may have to travel a bit to load up their bags with Halloween candy.
to an area where homes are closer together. It’s not uncommon for children to trick-ortreat in their friends’ or relatives’ neighborhoods — even if they live in urban or suburban areas. Rural kids can make plans with friends from school and traverse new neighborhoods for their candy.
Gather at shopping centers
Shopping malls, strip malls, supermarkets, and other retailers often have candy on hand for trick-or-treaters who like the safety of being in highly trafficked areas. For example, the West Geauga Plaza in Chester Township offers trick-or-treating Thursday, Oct. 17 from 4-6 p.m. for kids aged 2-12 with an adult.
Organize a meeting spot
Rural residents can coordinate a Halloween mixer at a community center, school or another building with a lot of space. The gathering also may take place at a farm or corn maze. Each family can contribute a snack and/or some candy, and the children can have fun together.