Medina County, OH August 2023

For the Kids and Pets of Medina County

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits.

This issue is always one of my favorites. I suppose because of the immense joy that children bring to their families and the significant impact they make on their communities.

Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment and we are happy to highlight the best for Medina County's kids in this issue.

Secondarily, who could forget pets? The special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility and companionship.

When I was growing up, we had a black lab named Baby. She was, indeed, a baby — not in age, but in nature — and would hide in my closet or under the bed during a bad thunderstorm. Occasionally, I would lay next to her and rub her head until the storm was over. In return, she would snuggle up next to me when I stayed home from school because I wasn't feeling well. She was the best companion a girl could ask for.

Although children are of infinitely more value, what children and pets share in common is that they need us. Our care, attention and intention shapes how they are raised and who they become. We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month.

Until next month,

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Joe Violi | joe.violi@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Emily Shea | emily.shea@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Martha Doyle | martha.doyle@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Erin Baka and Emily Shea

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Trillium Creek Dermatology, A.J. Kraig Landscape & Design, Baker Creek Farm

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

Welcome TO THE TEAM

Wyatt Andrasik, MD

Dr. Wyatt Andrasik was born and raised in Hudson, Ohio. He attended Miami University, then went on to attend Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine. Following medical school, he completed both his internship and dermatology residency at the Cleveland Clinic alongside experts in all elds of dermatology. Dr. Andrasik is scheduling patients for general, pediatric, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.

TEENS & SKIN CANCER

PREVENTION & AWARENESS

JULY – SEPTEMBER 2023

GET YOUR PREVENTATIVE

Teen Skin Cancer

SCREENING TODAY!

WATCH A VIDEO ON:

WHAT

TO EXPECT

PREVENTATIVE Skin Cancer Screenings NO CO-PAY OR OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSES*

Schedule

PA-C

BRUNSWICK: 2865 Center Rd., Suite 5

MEDINA: 5783 Wooster Pike

HOW DOES IT WORK?

It is amazing. The medication makes your brain tell you that you are not hungry, you are not craving that, digestion is slowed down and insulin resistance is corrected.

Upgrade Your Outdoor Space for the Family

A.J. KRAIG LANDSCAPE & DESIGN’S KID AND PETFRIENDLY TURF CAN BE ENJOYED BY HUMANS AND FURRY FRIENDS ALIKE

This summer and fall, discover the perfect solution for your landscaping and outdoor installation needs with Andrew Kraig of A.J. Kraig Landscape & Design, an enterprising entrepreneur. With a focus on small, custom high-end boutique projects, his expertise is sure to exceed your expectations.

Andrew’s journey in landscaping began during his high school years when he worked under the guidance of Joe Rosa, a seasoned mentor in the field. This experience instilled in Andrew a passion for designing and building outdoor spaces that would later become his passion and successful business.

Andrew made the decision to pursue his passion wholeheartedly in his late teens, and with the support of his father, who provided him with a loan for his first professional lawn mower, Andrew embarked on his entrepreneurial journey. In 2008 he founded

his own company, incorporating his skills and expertise to offer personalized and top-quality landscaping and outdoor installation services.

A.J. Kraig extends its expertise to offer a unique and specialized product: kid and pet-friendly turf for outdoor spaces. Andrew understands the needs and concerns of families and pet owners, and this product seeks to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for children and pets to play and relax in.

The kid and pet-friendly turf is designed with careful consideration for the specific requirements of families, and pet owners. It offers a durable and resilient surface that can withstand the activities of children and pets, ensuring long-lasting functionality without compromising aesthetics. This specialized turf is meticulously selected to be non-toxic, hypoallergenic and free from harmful chemicals.

When it comes to pet-friendly turf, it's an excellent option for dogs with grass allergies as it eliminates exposure to allergens, provides a safe and comfortable surface for play and requires minimal maintenance to keep it clean and allergen-free. It is engineered to be resistant to stains and odors. The turf's design also incorporates features that promote proper drainage, reducing the risk of puddles and moisture buildup.

With A.J. Kraig's kid and pet-friendly turf, clients can transform their outdoor areas into vibrant and inviting spaces where their loved ones — both human and furry — can play, relax and create lasting memories in a secure and comfortable environment.

Check out Andrew and his crew on Facebook at Facebook.com/ AJKraigLandscaping to explore the photo gallery and other highend, custom services provided. Learn more about A.J. Kraig's full list of services at AJKraigLandscapes.com

INTRODUCING ACCURE

Trillium Creek is the Only Dermatology Practice in Ohio that has this New Acne Treatment

Acne affects more than 50 million adolescents and adults annually, making it one of the most commonly treated skin conditions by healthcare providers. That's why Trillium Creek Dermatology is excited to announce that they are now treating patients as young as 15 years old with the new Accure laser for acne.

The Accure Laser System is a safe and effective FDA-approved, energy-based smart device that treats mild to severe acne in patients with results that are lasting at least two years. The Accure laser specifically targets and neutralizes the sebaceous glands (oil glands) that sit beneath the surface of the skin. By targeting or shrinking the sebaceous glands, they are able to decrease the oil production that would subsequently lead to acne formation.

“The Accure laser is a great option for those who may have tried and failed other acne treatments such as different lasers, chemical peels, oral medications and/or topical medications.”

The Accure laser is a great option for those who may have tried and failed other acne treatments such as different lasers, chemical peels, oral medica tions and/or topical medications. It is safe for all skin types and an excellent option for those that are not a candidate for isotretinoin, also known by its brand name, Accutane®.

Some of the reasons many patients fail conventional medication treatments are due to:

• Medications that are not appropriate for all people.

• Fear of taking medications and their side effects on your body.

• Time associated with office visits and pre-authorizations through your insurance company.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

With the Accure laser, the average patient will typically need three to four treatments that are spaced out about a month apart. A treatment usually lasts 45 minutes. Numbing cream is applied prior to the treatment. There is no downtime or side effects associated with this treat ment, and patients can resume normal activity immediately. Current studies have shown that the results are lasting at least two years but may vary by patient.

The Accure treatment normally costs $750 per treatment. Trillium Creek is cur rently offering introductory special pricing with 15% off your treatments.

WE ACCEPT CARECREDIT®

CareCredit® is a healthcare credit card designed for your health and wellness needs. It's a way to pay for the costs of many treatments and procedures and allows you to make convenient monthly payments.

* For complete details of health care financing terms, please review the CareCredit® account agreement within the application. Schedule an appointment to learn more.

Trillium Creek Dermatology is currently the only dermatology practice in Ohio with this advanced acne-clearing tech nology. To learn if you or a family member would be a good candidate for this amaz ing new acne treatment or to schedule an appointment, call 330.725.0569 or visit us online at TCOhio.com

Horseback Riding and more at Baker Creek Farm

Northeast Ohio’s Premier Spot for Equestrianism

Patience, discipline and compassion. Those are just three of the many positive character traits that horseback riding can teach children, according to the Certified Horsemanship Association. Horseback riding also offers the opportunity for socialization and problem-solving, fostering mental and emotional health while building confidence.

With all of the benefits that horseback riding boasts, it's no wonder studies have estimated around 30 million people ride horses each year in the United States. So where can you or your children take horseback riding lessons in Northeast Ohio? Look no further than Baker Creek Farm.

The locally owned facility is situated in Columbia Station — approximately 30 min utes from central Medina and just west of Strongsville — and offers a variety of horse back riding lessons for ages 5 and up through its School of Horsemanship. The structure of the school is such that Northeast Ohio residents have the opportunity to learn more about equestrianism no matter their age or skill level. Here's a glimpse at the School of Horsemanship programs:

Young Rider Program for ages 5-7: introduction to horses for the little ones. Kids in this program will learn about the basics of equestrianism in a safe environment with an expert instructor. The program is designed to nurture and guide young children during the very first step in their riding journey by helping them develop beginner skills and boosting their confidence.

CONTINUED >

Young Rider Program for ages 8-18: This is a goal-oriented program that can be offered at varying levels, from beginner through advanced. Additionally, students in this program can take advantage of the many supplemental programs Baker Creek offers like camps, clinics, advanced workshops, volunteer programs and schooling shows.

Adult Rider Program: This program is individually customized for riders at any level. Adult clinics and workshops are also available. Baker Creek includes both indoor and outdoor riding facilities so that lessons can take place year-round. The outdoor arena is complete with a full jump course and all-weather footing, while the indoor space has its own jump course and excellent footing as well as a heated tack room and 16 rubber matted stalls. Additionally, Baker Creek has a viewing lounge with air conditioning and heat for year-round comfort and convenience.

For students that find themselves taking lessons at least two times a week, Baker Creek offers an Accelerated Rider Program as well as a Yearly Membership Program. The Accelerated Rider Program provides a 10% discount on lesson totals for a quarterly period and the Yearly Membership

Program provides a 15% discount on lesson totals for the membership year, as well as other perks.

For the horseback riders that want to further their passion for this sport, Baker Creek has a Show Team. Riders must own their own horse to participate in the Show Team, so Baker Creek offers expert services to help their riders find the perfect horse for their needs, goals and budget.

In addition to the horseback riding lessons available through Baker Creek's School of Horsemanship, the facility is available for private event rentals like birthday parties and weddings. Baker Creek's equestrian birthday parties take place in a spacious, furnished and climate-controlled lounge, as well as horseback riding through a fun and educational obstacle course.

Finally, Baker Creek offers photography with horses — a great service for families that want to get a head start on their Christmas cards, for upcoming graduates, engagement sessions and more.

Learn more about Baker Creek Farm and how you or your child can get started with horseback riding lessons at BakerCreekFarm.com

“Patience, discipline and compassion. Those are just three of the many positive character traits that horseback riding can teach children.”

Family Fun That’s Close to Home

Stop Vaping With Help from AcuLaser Treatment Center

Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among young people. Many people believe that vaping is a safer alternative to smoking cigarettes, but the truth is that vaping can be just as dangerous, if not more so. In fact, vaping can be even harder to quit than smoking cigarettes. In this article, we will explore the dangers of vaping and why it is so difficult to quit.

First and foremost, vaping can be incredibly harmful to your health. While vaping does not involve burning tobacco, it does involve inhaling a variety of chemicals and toxins. These chemicals can cause a range of health problems, including lung damage, heart disease, and even cancer. In addition, many e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and can lead to a host of health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

One of the biggest dangers of vaping is that it is often marketed to young people. Many e-cigarette companies use bright colors and fruity flavors to appeal to young people, and some even use social media influencers to promote their products. This has led to a surge in vaping among teenagers and young adults, many of whom are unaware of the risks associated with vaping.

Another danger of vaping is that it can be even harder to quit than smoking cigarettes. Nicotine is highly addictive, and many e-cigarettes contain higher levels of nicotine than traditional cigarettes. This means that people who vape may become even more addicted to nicotine than they

were when they smoked cigarettes. In addition, many people who try to quit vaping find that they experience withdrawal symptoms, such as headaches, irritability, and difficulty sleeping.

Why is it so hard to quit vaping? One reason is that vaping is often seen as a social activity. Many people who vape do so with friends or in social situations, which can make it difficult to quit. In addition, vaping can be a way to cope with stress or anxiety, which can make it even harder to quit.

Another reason why it is hard to quit vaping is that e-cigarettes are often marketed as a way to quit smoking. Many people who switch to vaping do so in an attempt to quit smoking, but end up becoming addicted to vaping instead. This is because e-cigarettes are often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, which can make people feel like they are doing something good for their health. However, the truth is that vaping can be just as harmful, if not more so, than smoking cigarettes.

If you need help quitting smoking or vaping, call or visit AcuLaser Treatment Center. The center uses a safe, painless, effective and FDA approved low level laser therapy that is applied to certain pressure points of the body. This comprehensive program, coupled with lifestyle counseling and step by step detoxification guide, are the important keys to the program’s success.

Learn more about AcuLaser and schedule an appointment at TheyQuit.com or by calling 440.740.1020.

Backyard Chickens

Everything you need to get started on your backyard coop.

Chickens have become increasingly popular as pets in both suburban and urban areas during the last 20 years. Backyard chickens may seem to be an unsuspecting animal to keep as a pet but the tried and true egg producers are back in fashion as food costs are soaring and families are looking for more food independence in light of recent supply chain shortages. There’s a lot to like about raising chickens in your backyard. Surprisingly, chickens are relatively low maintenance. And bonus – unlike dogs, they don’t need to be bathed or groomed, and they don’t shed on your clothes or require training. Oh and bonus – they make you breakfast.

The eggs from backyard chickens are the best—tastier and fresher than any store-bought eggs. Much of the day, the birds entertain themselves, picking at grass, worms, beetles, and all of the good things that go into making those delicious farm eggs. Plus, with their keen eye for insect pests, chickens make for great gardening companions.

Chickens can provide family companionship, fun, entertainment, sustainable fresh food, and plenty of poop that gardeners prize as a natural fertilizer/composting material. Could backyard chickens be the perfect pet/producer to add to your home?

Things To Consider Before Getting Chickens:

First, check local town ordinances to ensure that keeping chickens is even allowed in your neighborhood or if there is a limit to the number of chickens you can keep at once.

Make sure you have the space for a henhouse or a full-size chicken coop. It has to hold a feeder and water containers, a roosting area, and a nest box for every three hens. A proper coop should be large enough that you can stand in it to gather eggs and shovel manure comfortably, but a simple hen house can be quite a bit smaller. Plus, any housing must be sturdy enough to keep your chickens safe from all the predators out there. Gorgeous coops are aplenty on places like Pinterest if you’re building your own, but many pre-made options are available through various farm supply stores as well.

Chickens need food and water daily. Feed is about $20 per 50-pound bag, but prices vary depending on your location and the quality of the feed. How long a bag lasts depends on the number of chickens you have.

Hens will lay eggs through Spring and Summer and into the Fall, as long as they have 12 to 14 hours of daylight. Expect to collect eggs daily, or even twice a day.

Backyard Chicken Q&A:

HOW MANY CHICKENS SHOULD I KEEP?

Chickens are sociable creatures, so plan to keep three to six birds at least. With this amount, you’ll always have a steady supply of eggs, since an adult hen lays about two eggs every three days, on average. Local ordinances also dictate how many chickens one household can keep.

HOW MUCH DOES KEEPING CHICKENS COST?

All of this costs money, of course. The materials to build and furnish a coop and a 20 x 5-foot run—including wood, fencing, and hardware—are going to set you back at least $300. If you can’t do this work yourself, you’ll also be buying skilled labor. Overall, expect to spend between $500 and $700 when getting started depending on the size of your flock, coop and run. For prefabricated coops, expect to pay $600 or more.

WHAT KIND OF SHELTER DO THEY NEED?

Chickens need to have an enclosed coop that provides adequate space, protection from the elements and predators, and good ventilation. A modified shed, barn, or stable with an outdoor

run is a good option for a coop. The outdoor run should be fully enclosed if you have predators like hawks or owls nearby. Ideally, coops are slightly elevated off the ground to prevent flooding and have windows on each side, enough nest boxes to allow several chickens to nest simultaneously, outlets for lighting, fans if they’re needed, air inlets or ventilation holes on the roof, and a concrete floor treated with a pet-safe waterproof coating that allows for easy cleaning and drainage.

Want to go the fancy route?

Search Pinterest for “chicken coop building plans” if you’re building your own or consider going the luxury route with a gorgeous custom-built coop from a company like CutestCoops.com

WHEN DO CHICKENS START LAYING EGGS?

Most hens will start laying eggs when they’re about 18 to 20 weeks old, although it may take more time for them to reach their peak output. Often, the first eggs are laid irregularly or are smaller or oddly shaped when compared with a typical egg. This is nothing to worry about! Once a cycle is established, most hens will lay one egg per day.

Kid-Friendly Chicken Breeds:

Certain breeds of chicken are also known to be great with kids. There are literally hundreds of breeds of chickens, and each is unique in their own way. Here are ten breeds of chickens that have been found to be good for children.

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

AUGUST 5TH

Ride for Life Poker Run

VFW POST 9520, 1439 S. CARPENTER RD., BRUNSWICK, OH | 10:30 AM

All vehicles are welcome to take part in this Ride for Life to support the suicide prevention services at FrontLine Service. In addition to the ride, there will be poker, raffle prizes, live music and dinner. Visit RideForLifePoker.com for more information.

AUGUST 13TH

Cliff Habian Trio: American Songbook Classics

WADSWORTH PUBLIC LIBRARY, 132 BROAD ST., WADSWORTH, OH | 2:00 PM

This free program is part of Ohio Regional Music Arts and Cultural Outreach and Wadsworth Public Library’s Sunday Live at the Library concert series. Registration is free, but highly recommendation. Visit Ormaco.org or call 419.853.6016 to reserve your spot.

AUGUST 18TH

Jerry Popiel: Songs from the 1960s and 1970s

JOHN STREETER GARDEN

AMPHITHEATER, 2122 WILLIAMS RD., WOOSTER, OH | 6:30 PM

This performance will close out ORMACO and the Friends of the Secrest Arboretum’s Music at the Arboretum concert series. Jerry Popiel is an Avon-based acoustic guitarist-singer and his program will feature tunes Simon & Garfunkel, James Taylor, Jim Croce, Dan Fogelberg, Cat Stevens and others. Visit Ormaco.org for more information.

AUGUST 19TH

Native American Day

HEARTLAND, 8187 CAMP RD., HOMERVILLE, OH | 1:00 PM

Join ORMACO as it honors Native Americans. Begin the afternoon with Valley City-based flutist Billy Crowbeak Faluski as he showcases some of his Native American-style flutes. Next, enjoy Medina historian John Burke portray Captain Wolf, a Lenape/Delaware Indian who served under General William Henry Harrison and lived in his village on Chippewa Lake. Visit Ormaco.org for more information.

AUGUST 19TH

South Town Music Festival

SOUTH TOWN MEDINA | 12:00 PM South Town Medina, just south of the square, will be filled this day with multiple musical performances from area bands and solo acts, filling the open areas with fun, great food and beer.

AUGUST 26TH

Rock the Block Community Festival

ST. MATTHEW LUTHERAN

CHURCH, 400 N. BROADWAY

ST., MEDINA, OH | 4:00 PM

Head out to this fun community event featuring live music, kids activities like a magician and a bounce house, food vendors and family-friendly contests.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/MedinaCounty