Maple Leaf Fall Home special section 10-4-18

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Geauga County Maple Leaf

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Store with Style Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary

By Cassandra Shofar cassandra@geaugamapleleaf.com

As Kathy and Tony Wallace see it, authentic customer service seems to be a thing of the past for most businesses.

But not theirs.

Store with Style, in Mentor, is celebrating a decade of providing just that — customer service that exceeds expectations.

“The customers, pure and simple, are what we love,” Wallace said in a recent interview via email. “It’s so satisfying to exceed our customers’ expectations. We excel at customer service and that’s what sets us apart.

From the first meeting, we treat every customer’s project as our ‘most important one.’”

Store with Style, at 8250 Tyler Blvd., is a total home organization company that focuses on solutions first, according to its website.

The store offers “expert designs and professional installation.” Its team works with homeowners to determine the best solution for their problem areas.

“What sets us apart from our competition is we listen. We don’t try to tell you what the best answer is unless we can completely understand your needs,” Wallace said.

Another aspect that sets Store with Style apart from its competition is the business is family owned and operated, Wallace said, recalling the year they decided to take the plunge and set up shop in Mentor.

“After 30-plus-year careers in the housewares manufacturing and distribution, we (Kathy & Tony) decided to stop traveling and spend some time meeting our neighbors and learning about our community,” she said.

“We were also tired of rarely feeling like a customer and decided to start a business that would allow us to ‘do business the right way, for the right reasons.’

“In 2008, we opened as Garage Outfitters and were focused solely on the garage organization business. With the recession

SUBMITTED

This is one example of Store with Style’s custom kitchen design center showroom, with Wellborn cabinets and Cambria countertops.

deepening, we diversified to add closet organization to our business in 2010,” Wallace added. “Things really took off in 2012, when we moved to our present location on Tyler Boulevard, changed our name to Store with Style, welcomed our two (master carpenter and cabinet builder) sons into the company — Aaron and Adam Wallace — and began offering kitchen and bath cabinetry to complete our home organization story.”

Wallace said they had steady growth the first few years and a 300 percent growth in

their company within the last three years.

“We are realizing our dream of creating a business that can be passed on to the next generation and serve Northeast Ohio for years to come,” Wallace said, adding their clientele ranges from areas in Lake and Geauga counties, Chagrin Falls and Solon, to Brecksville and Avon.

When customers walk into the family’s store, they can expect a “pleasant experience with people who are passionate and knowledgeable about their business,” Wallace said.

“They will deal with people who listen carefully and then work hard to deliver an ‘as ordered, on time’ experience. Working with the family both in the showroom and on the installation in their home ensures our customers have a consistent and professional result that keeps them coming back.”

Exterior services and products include garage cabinets and storage systems, wall and overhead storage solutions.

Interior products include custom closets, storage for home office and professional office spaces, laundry and mudroom, or other rooms often used.

Kitchen products include Cambria countertops and Wellborn kitchen and bath cabinets.

Looking back over the last 10 years, the Wallace’s recall some of the favorite projects they have worked on.

“One of our favorites was a longtime customer who is planning retirement and bought a home in Melbourne Beach, Fla.,” she said.

“They came into the store excited about their new home and wanted us to remodel the kitchen. After we explained that would be difficult with it being 1,200 miles away, they proceeded to produce airline tickets and had us as their guests for a weekend —which of course included a design and layout consultation for the kitchen. When we returned, we did all of the design work in our Mentor showroom, had the cabinets shipped from the factory to a dealer in Melbourne that handled the installation. The kitchen is beautiful and of course, we had to make a visit the next year to see the finished product.”

The Wallace’s have also enjoyed supplying closets for the YMCA Dream House and St. Jude Dream Home every year.

“Both of these projects are great fundraising events that serve children and families in Lake County and beyond with two organizations that are focused on building a brighter future for our children,” she said.

Geauga County Maple Leaf

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Thursday, October 4, 2018

Check Your Vehicle Now for Safe Winter Driving

By Ann Wishart ann@geaugamapleleaf.com

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Geauga County residents know getting around in the snow belt tests a driver’s skill and patience. Drivers need to be able to trust that their cars and trucks are ready for bad weather.

Making sure your vehicle’s systems are all in working order before the onslaught of winter will minimize the chances of accidents, getting stranded or just being late for work on a cold morning.

Michael Velotta, owner of Velotta Auto Service, 10874 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland, said fluids including antifreeze, windshield spray, transmission and oil, should be checked before the snow flies.

It’s possible the battery should be replaced before that cold morning when turning the key yields a telling clicking sound instead of the expected “vroom.”

“Most batteries don’t last more than five years,” Velotta said, adding they don’t always fail at work. Hearing that clicking in a parking lot or on the interstate is especially bad during the winter.

“It’s a bad time to get stranded,” he said.

A thorough evaluation of the condition of belts and hoses on the engine and transmission is important in any older vehicle, as is a check of the front-end suspension.

“We go over it to be sure it is solid and there are no loose parts,” Velotta said.

Windshield wipers should be changed before the snowy season and he warned drivers to turn off their wipers before turning off their vehicles. Otherwise, if the wiper is

frozen to the windshield, the wiper motor can burn up, he said.

No matter how many wheels a vehicle has, when the rubber hits the road, it needs to be of a quality and inflation to make driving as safe as possible.

“Tires are a priority,” Velotta said.

Dave Phelps, owner of Hambden Tire and Auto, 9830 Old State Road in Hambden Township, said it is important to correctly inflate tires, both for safety and to make sure they wear evenly and longer and hold the road better in freezing conditions.

The correct pounds-per-square-inch information should be on the door jam of the driver’s side door, he said.

He also recommended having more tread on the tire, especially for winter driving.

The general rule is a steel belted radial should have 2/32 of an inch of tread, but Phelps said it is better to aim for 7/32 of an inch when driving on snowy or slushy roads to provide a better grip.

The depth of the tread should be measured on both sides and the middle of the tire where it meets the pavement, in case the vehicle has been driven with over-inflated tires causing uneven wear, Velotta said.

National Motorists Association Travel Tips

As we get closer to the holidays, people tend to travel more, increasing the chances of something going wrong on the road.

The National Motorists Association recommends inspecting the vehicle to ensure See Vehicle • Page 6

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Prepare Your Garden for Winter, Enjoy it in the Spring

By Ann Wishart ann@geaugamapleleaf.com

Even veteran gardeners become weary of mowing grass and weeding flowerbeds by fall, but local businesses recommend taking some time before snow flies to do a few chores to ensure a more pleasant spring.

Many properties in Geauga County have one or more fruit trees in the yard and they usually require little care other than some pruning, once dormant.

Young trees may need to be wrapped to protect them from hungry rabbits, said Jeff Swindler of Patterson Fruit Farm in Chester Township.

Deer rubbing antlers on the rough bark can damage fruit trees. If that is a concern, even larger trees can be wrapped with plastic, he said.

Patterson’s often mulches strawberry beds with straw for the winter, he added.

Water lily pools and fish ponds are popular water features in some yards and will benefit from winterizing, said Sarah Clark, water garden specialist with AQUA DOC Lake and Pond Management, 10779Mayfield Road in Munson Township.

“We recommend pulling the pumps and storing them someplace warm,” she said.

“Taking them inside for the winter can extend their life.”

Fish in a small water garden might make it through a mild winter, but humans can give them a better chance by installing aeration units or heating elements to keep the ice from forming, she said.

Another idea to make for a better spring is to tightly cover the water feature with pond netting to keep winter debris of leaves and branches out, Clark said.

Not having to rake the pond in March makes it much easier to start back up in the spring, she said.

The majority of Geauga residents tend their lawns and gardens until frost hits, then close the doors and wait out the cold, but autumn is an ideal time to get into the garden and ensure that flowers, trees and garden beds will overwinter successfully. A number of things make autumn a prime gardening season.

The cooler days of fall enable gardeners to spend ample time outdoors without the threat of blazing heat and the soil harbors a lot of residual warmth in autumn.

Fall is a prime time to assess what’s already in the landscape, what needs pruning back and where to address planting for next year. Gardening enthusiasts can focus their attention on these areas this fall: • Pamper perennials. As annuals and

perennials start to fall back, mark the spots where perennials are located so they can be easily identified later on.

• Prune shrubs. Look at shrubs and trees and cut out dead or diseased wood.

• Clean up borders. Weed and tidy up borders and lawn edging.

• Install pavers or rock walls. Embrace the cooler temperatures to work on labor-intensive projects, such as putting in a garden bed, retaining wall or walkway.

• Remove spent summer veggies. Take out vegetable garden plants that have already bloomed and borne fruit. Tidy up vegetable gardens and start to sow cooler weather plants, such as onions, garlic, beans and peas.

• Rake and compost. Rake the leaves and gather grass clippings to add to the compost pile.

• Plant spring bulbs. Get tulips and other spring bulbs ready for planting so they’ll burst with color next year.

• Dig up herbs. Relocate herbs like parsley or basil to indoor gardens. Otherwise, strip all leaves and freeze for storage during winter.

• Consider mums. Chrysanthemum plants are perennials. While they look beautiful in pots, if planted, maintained and winterized, they can bloom every fall.

• Fertilize the lawn. Fertilizing in autumn helps ensure grass will stay healthy throughout the winter.

• Add mulch and compost to the garden.

Replenish spent soil with mulch and compost so garden beds will be revitalized for spring planting.

• Prune hedges. Tidy up hedges, as they won’t be growing much more this year.

• Clean and store equipment. Clean, sharpen and oil all equipment, storing lawn and garden tools properly so they are ready for spring and not lying out all winter.

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Movers for Meals Drive to Aid Hungry Families this Holiday Submitted According to Feeding America, 42 million Americans struggle with hunger, which is nearly equal to the 43.1 million officially living in poverty. Even more shocking statistics show of this number, 13 million are children and 5.4 million are seniors who don’t get enough to eat.

To fight hunger this holiday season, Two Men And A Truck of Cleveland is hosting its annual Movers for Meals collection drive to provide nonperishable food items to families with the goal of putting more food on tables.

This year, Two Men And A Truck is partnering with shelters, schools and businesses from areas surrounding Cleveland.

The Eastlake Kiwanis Food Pantry will serve as a drop off point for nonperishable food items.

Necessary items for donation include: Cereal, tuna, peanut butter, soup, jelly, pasta, canned pineapple, coffee, canned potatoes, tea, instant potatoes, juice.

This fall marks the eighth anniversary of the Movers for Meals program. The program was first introduced in Michigan in 2010 and by 2012, franchises donated 16,000 pounds of food to food banks across the state. The program is expected to continue its nationwide reach this year.

For additional information about Movers for Meals, visit twomenandatruck.com/community-service.

Time to Battle Falling Leaves Pro-Activities Shares Tips for Safety while Raking Submitted As the daylight hours get shorter and the air gets cooler, people find themselves rushing to get ready for the impending change in the weather.

The hustle and bustle is in full force.

During the months of October, November and December, people seem to be the busiest — from yard work to planning for the holidays. Whatever your plans may include, Pro-Activities Physical Therapy hopes you enjoy this time of year and would like to offer you some helpful tips on how to rake those pesky leaves.

Safety Tips for Raking Leaves

• Choose Your Tools Wisely: Select a rake that is a comfortable fit for your height.

Be warned that the lighter the rake, the more energy you will use to move and scoop piles of leaves.

• Do A Pre-Rake Warm Up: Do some stretching to prevent straining your muscles.

• Practice Proper Raking Posture:

Vehicle from page 4

family getaways are not derailed by car troubles and offers the following tips: • Squeaky brakes are not the only potential indicator of brake problems. Brake fluid, should always be topped off before beginning a road trip. Fresh fluid looks honey-like and translucent. A puddle beneath a vehicle that is clear to brown and slick indicates a brake

Stand upright and rake leaves to the side of your body, alternating dominant hand every now and then.

• Take Rake Breaks: Take a rake rest every 15 to 20 minutes. Stay hydrated and stretch to release any tension you may have built up.

If you over do it and injure yourself, remember Pro-Activities is here to help you.

Pro-Activities understands that you have unique needs and may be seeking physical therapy for many reasons.

You may be recovering from an injury or surgery. You may want to improve your mobility, get stronger or just feel better. Before prescribing any treatment plan, the staff gets to know you and the reasons you have chosen to become proactive about your health and wellness. Working together, they help you achieve your goals.

Visit online at www.pro-activities.com, stop in at 8254 Mayfield Road, Ste. 7, Chester Township, and see the Pro-Activities staff or give them a call at 440-729-0405.

Wellness is their goal. fluid leak, which can ultimately lead to a complete failure of the brakes. The NMA recommends brake fluid be changed at least once every three to four years.

• Fresh transmission fluid is red, darkening over time. However, if it is brown or black, that indicates potential internal damage to the transmission. To determine if there are any issues with the transmission fluid, the NMA recommends drivers wipe a cool dipstick between their thumb and index finger. If even the slightest bit of grit is felt when wiping the dipstick, the transmission is likely in need of work.

• Fresh oil is light to dark amber and translucent, and that is how oil typically looks immediately after an oil change. Oil darkens over time and that is natural (black oil indicates it’s time for an oil change). However, oil that appears cloudy or milky indicates that coolant is getting into the oil, perhaps due to gasket problems. Have the oil changed or at least check their oil before leaving on a long trip to inspect the color and ensure the vehicle has enough oil.

• The unknown of the open road is part of what makes it so appealing. While many road trippers plan their trips during the summer and fall when the weather tends to be both pleasant and predictable, there’s no guarantee inclement weather won’t rear its ugly head. Filling the windshield washer fluid reservoir before embarking on a trip ensures drivers’ visibility won’t be adversely affected by unforeseen issues that can soil windshields.

Checking fluids before embarking on a road trip can help drivers avoid breakdowns and ensure a safe, fun trip.

Submit your news to

editor@geaugamapleleaf.com

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Geauga County Maple Leaf

How to Avoid Electrical Mishaps around the House MetroCreative Accidents around the home happen.

Some are minor and easily brushed off, while others can lead to serious injury or financial peril.

Many accidents, even those that are relatively minor, can be prevented. Such is often the case with electrical accidents, which may be more common than many people think.

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, home electrical fires account for an estimated 51,000 fires each year, resulting in roughly 500 deaths and more than $1 billion in property damage.

Homeowners who want to do all they can to reduce the likelihood of electrical mishaps at home can employ various strategies.

• Be mindful of cords and plugs. Cords and plugs can be found throughout the typical home. While few people may perceive cords and plugs as threats, they can serve as catalysts for accident and/or injury. Cords and plugs should always be kept clear of heat and water sources, and cords should not be placed in areas where they can pose any tripping hazards. Even if residents grow accustomed to cord locations and know to maneuver around them, guests won’t be as familiar.

When pulling plugs from outlets, always pull the plug, and not the cord, to reduce injury risk.

• Periodically take inventory of electrical appliances and components. Some electrical appliances age well, while others may not. Periodic inspections of appliances and their components, such as their cords, can

reveal wear and tear that can lead to fires or injuries. Replace any items that pose a threat and stop using these items immediately.

• Avoid DIY electrical work. Many homeowners are handy with hammers and other tools, but professionals are better trusted to perform electrical work on a home. The risk of accident or injury when working with wiring and other electrical components is simply too great for untrained homeowners to do on their own.

• Unplug appliances before flipping a fuse. Fuses blow from time to time. Some may be knocked out by especially powerful storms, while others may blow because they’re overloaded.

Regardless of why fuses blow, homeowners should turn off appliances on blown fuses before flipping those fuses back on. Leaving appliances running when flipping a fuse can increase the risk of fire or accident. Turn off appliances, unplug them and then turn them back on one by one after the fuse has been flipped.

• Be especially cautious if anyone smells gas. Gas leaks are often detected by the aroma of the gas in the air. When such leaks are detected, homeowners should not touch or turn any electrical switches. Doing so may create a spark that can react with the gas in the air, leading to fire. If a gas leak is detected, go outside and contact a local emergency service.

Many home electrical mishaps can be prevented if homeowners exercise caution and hire certified electrical contractors to handle wiring and other electrical tasks around their homes.

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

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Thursday, October 4, 2018

Annual Pumpkin Festival Scheduled for Oct. 6 and 7 Submitted

“We Care”

ElitE AuctiOn GAllEry & Elite Gallery Consignment Shop

Now Open 6 Days a Week, Noon to 6pm chuck Smith, Auctioneer Joan (Beth) Andrews, Office Manager

15698 Mayfield Rd., Huntsburg, OH 44046 (440) 321-1470 Auctionzip.com www.eliteauctiongallery.net

HAMBDEN TIRE AND AUTO

NEW & USED TIRES • REPAIRS 9830 Old State Road Chardon, Ohio 44024

DAVID PHELPS Owner

(440) 285-0897

Located at the intersection of state Route 528 and U.S. 322, the annual Huntsburg Pumpkin Festival is celebrating its 49th year.

There is no entrance fee and all contests, entertainment and attractions are free.

There is also free parking and a free shuttle service from the parking areas to the festival grounds 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The pancake and waffle breakfast is open each day from 8:30-11:30 a.m.

There are many vendors and crafters filling the two buildings along with a midway of fabulous food. Join in one of the free contests, including apple peeling, pumpkin pie eating, bubble gum blowing, rock toss, egg toss and nail pounding.

The Huntsburg Historical Society will also be open and offer free admission.

Attractions this year include: Jungle Terry; antique tractors and engines; classic car show; Fort Huntsburg Country Band; Cardinal School show choir, the Cardinaires; The Cardinal marching band; bagpipe performance

by Geauga Highlanders; The Usual Suspects Band; Erie Heights Brass Ensemble; country singer Raelynn Debevits; 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.

The Huntsburg Pumpkin Run on Oct. 7 at 9 a.m. traverses a scenic part of the Buckeye Trail. Registration begins at 8 a.m. at Grandview Golf Club parking lot. Entry fee is $15 and includes a free T-shirt to the first 50 to 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, Chelsea Nau Performance Horses, Huntington Bank, Frank Martuccio Asphalt & Paving, Silvercreek Veterinary Clinic, Inc., Schneider Saddlery and Sages Apples.

The pancake breakfast is open each day from 8:30-11:30 a.m. and features all-you-caneat Fowler Milling Co. pancakes and Belgium waffles with Bob Evans Original Sausage Links, orange juice, real maple syrup from Hunstburg maple syrup producers and a variety of hot beverages. Cost is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and $4 for children ages 5 to 12.

Children under 5 are free.

Floats are wanted for the Huntsburg Pumpkin Festival Parade on Oct. 7 at 2:15 p.m. The theme is “Happy Birthday” celebrating Huntsburg Congregational Church’s 200th birthday and many other 200-plus birthdays.

For more information, contact Michele at 440636-3368. Award for best dressed pet in costume by Schneider Saddlery.

Carved and Decorated Pumpkin Show entries should be brought to the Huntsburg Center Pavilion on Oct. 6 from 9:30-10:30 am. All entries must remain until 5:30 p.m.

Oct. 7. Categories are: Adult Carved Pumpkin (ages 13 & up); Adult Decorated Pumpkin (ages 13 & up); Youth Carved Pumpkin (ages 12 and under); Youth Decorated Pumpkin (ages 12 & under); Scarecrows: standing, sitting, straw, wood or newspaper… anything goes. (Head need not be pumpkin); and Totem Poles: five or more pumpkins, squash or gourds.

Register Oct. 7 by 8 a.m. for the baking contest at the town hall. Judging is 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 over may enter traditional pumpkin pies, cakes, breads and other items.

Non-traditional pumpkin pies will be entered in the other category. Sponsored by Newbury Business Park Check and Nancy White.

Tot King & Queen Contest is for children ages 4 to 6. Register at the tent in front of the town hall at 10 a.m. Oct. 6. Call Jeannette at 440-636-5354. Sponsor is the Middlefield Banking Co. For the Giant Pumpkin Show, register and weigh-in Oct. 4 from 6-8 p.m. at the Huntsburg Center Pavilion. Call Jerry, 440636-5145.

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; and Largest Sunflower, judged on width of head.

Bring your favorite classic auto for the Classic Car Show. No admission fee. Held rain or shine from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 6 and 7 behind Huntsburg Elementary School.

People’s choice trophy will be awarded each day. A participation plaque will be awarded to the first 20 cars that arrive each day. Sponsors are Preston Chevrolet and J.F.D. Landscaping.

Visit www.huntsburgpumpkinfestival.com and www.destinationgeauga.com for general information and a schedule of events.

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Geauga County Maple Leaf

How Empty-Nesters can Transform Their Homes MetroCreative

After bringing home a bubbly baby boy or girl, it can be hard for parents to imagine that a day will come when their kids are off to college and then onto their own apartment or house. After spending decades nurturing and caring for children, parents are then left with a suddenly quiet house and probably much more time to spare. If saying goodbye to the kids also means extra house, there’s the option to downsize or make that extra space more useful.

Homeowners who choose to stay put can renovate vacant rooms into spaces that meet their newfound needs.

• Hobby haven: If you’ve always meant to set up a crafting room, home-brewing station or an artist’s studio, now is an ideal time to do just that. Figure out which supplies you will need and begin reworking that former bedroom into a new sanctuary for leisure interests.

• Guest suite: If you’ve never had a spare bedroom to entertain guests, a child’s former bedroom can fit the bill. It may not be that difficult to transform such spaces into relaxing and inviting rooms for overnight guests. Be sure there is at least a queen-sized bed and a dresser or chest of drawers to stash belongings. Select paint colors and linens in neutral tones so the room will be inviting to guests.

• Living room redo: When there’s an entire soccer team coming over to hang out, that large sectional sofa or modular seating may be ideal. Now that the kids are out of the house and their friends are no longer coming over for movie night, living rooms can be made more intimate with small-scale seating.

A small sofa and two comfortable chairs may be a more fitting option.

• At-home gym: Save on gym membership fees by building a mini studio right at home.

Choose one of the larger bedrooms and then fill it with some fitness equipment, such as an elliptical trainer, a bench press bench and some free weights. Store rolled-up mats in the closet for yoga or Pilates sessions.

• Expanded bathroom: If space has always been at a premium in the bathroom, borrow area from an empty bedroom and turn it into a spa. Install a soaking tub separate from the shower, and fill the room with other amenities, such as a warming lamp or even a small sauna.

• Home office: Working from home a few days a week may be more plausible when nearing retirement, as it will be a smoother transition from heading to the office each day to spending more time at home. Turn a bedroom or den into an office space with a new desk and bookshelves.

An empty nest can be a bittersweet experience, but parents can make such situations work for them by transforming their homes to better reflect their current needs.

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Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Laundry Room Renovation Ideas MetroCreative To former apartment dwellers or those who have never enjoyed the benefit of a dedicated laundry area, even the smallest washer and dryer space can seem like a luxury.

The benefits of dedicated laundry rooms abound. However, disorganized laundry rooms can nullify such benefits. Depending on the needs and preferences of each homeowner, laundry room designs can be customized for convenience.

Employ vertical space

Floor space may be at a premium in a laundry room, especially for those who want to devote as much space as possible to bulk-size washer and dryer units. Therefore, utilizing wall space is key. Use shelving, wire racks, hooks, and other organizational tools to store items on the wall. Shelves can be tucked into just about any space, and there are different options that can fit into corners or shallow areas. These are a great option for keeping detergent or other laundry essentials nearby.

Clean designs reduce clutter

Simple, clean designs can be an asset in a laundry room. If budget and space permits, cabinetry built into the design will help keep items out of sight in the laundry room. Cabinets hung directly above the appliances can store detergent, bleach and fabric softener.

Use cabinets elsewhere in the room as catchalls for cleaning supplies used in various other rooms around the house.

Incorporate a sink in the design

Some older laundry room setups have a slop sink to drain discharged water from the washing machine. However, newer homes may have plumbing installed directly through the floor or walls. It is still a worthwhile idea to have a sink in the laundry room for rinsing out stains, handwashing items and having a go-to sink for messier cleanup.

Utilize a tension rod

A rod installed between two cabinets or across a narrow width of space in the laundry room is a handy spot to hang shirts or pants to prevent wrinkling. Repurposing a ladder and suspending it from the ceiling also creates a spot to hang clothes.

Consider laundry room flooring

It’s important to select flooring materials that will not be damaged by contact with moisture or spills. Vinyl, tile and some composite products often make good laundry room floor materials. Resilient flooring that mimics the look of hardwood may add a classy touch, and give the appearance of wood without having to worry about damage. To alleviate fatigue while spending long moments in the laundry room, invest in a memory foam mat that can be placed underfoot.

Keep lighting in mind

Lighting can be important in the laundry room. Rely on task lighting, under-cabinet strip lighting and overhead lights as needed for efficiency.

Laundry room design can maximize the space available and make it more convenient to launder and sort clothes.

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Gain Financial Wellness Knowledge at GCPL Submitted The fall is a time of year when many people take on home-improvement projects.

Whether to help winterize against the coming Geauga County snows or to spruce up a dated kitchen or bathroom, these projects come at a cost. Budgeting for home improvement requires the financial ability to turn a drafty den into a cozy space.

Geauga County Public Library understands financial literacy is a skill not everyone has, but everyone could benefit from. The library system is partnering with Geauga County Job and Family Services this fall to present a two-part financial education workshop at both its Chardon branch and Geauga West branch.

The first workshop introduces how to communicate about money, track spending and organize bills and valuable papers. Part two discusses establishing a budget and how credit works as well as how to reduce credit card debt. GCPL hope many people take advantage of these workshops. Register on its events calendar.

Additionally, Lynda.com is available at no cost to anyone with a library card. Lynda has several popular financial wellness courses.

Simply log in through the website portal, enter your library card number and PIN, and start browsing all the classes that help you make sense of financial issues and how to handle money.

Library research resources include free online access to Consumer Reports, which shares the results of rigorous research, consumer insights and policy expertise to inform purchase decisions.

Mechanics and DIY auto enthusiasts appreciate the in-library digital subscription to ALLDATA Repair, the leading single source of manufacturers’ diagnostic, maintenance and repair information. Original equipment data is available for more than 22,000 engine-specific vehicles from 1982 to present.

Teens and young adults won’t want to miss learning about how to budget. GCPL will have a CPA on hand for “Adulting 101: Money matters” at 3 p.m. Oct. 26 at the Middlefield branch.

Whenever you’re considering taking on a new project, make the library your first stop for gathering information. GCPL has plenty of books, magazines, digital resources and programs on diverse topics to help point you in the right direction and make informed decisions.

Unique Art Brings Personal Touch to Your Personal Space Submitted Artisans’ Corner Gallery in the heart of Newbury Township offers a high-end shopping experience at reasonable prices featuring art, handmade gifts and custom framing.

Art Creates a Colorful Home

When you fill your home with unique handcrafted artwork rather than mass-produced decorative items, you create a one-of-akind environment to enjoy that will showcase your style. Not all art has to be expensive, but can be unique.

In today’s modern times, the shopping possibilities are endless. With so many of us doing online shopping or big box stores, we lose that personal interaction. Buying local and supporting a small business the brick and mortar shop in your community will give so many local artists an opportunity to thrive along with local businesses.

Artisans’ Corner features all Ohio-based artists and in the spacious 2,500-square-foot gallery, you will find many unique items to fill your home. If you are looking for an exceptional gift no matter the occasion, from handcrafted jewelry to beautiful and functional pottery, the variety is immense. Custom framing makes a wonderful personal gift as

well. The gallery has so much to offer. Stop by and see for yourself.

You Name It, We Frame It

Artisans’ Corner has been known to frame some pretty unusual things. If you haven’t thought about it, framing isn’t just for pictures. You can bring in all kinds of treasures and Artisans’ Corner will transform them into one-of-a-kind works of art for your walls. Just consider the items you may already have that could easily turn into display art – grandma’s favorite teacup, dad’s fishing items, that sand dollar you picked up at the beach or your first report card from school.

It is fun to have those special keepsakes on display where you can see and enjoy them.

Framed Art Checkups

When you own framed art or memorabilia that means a lot to you, you will want to make sure it remains in prime condition so it will last as long as possible. You can bring in your pieces and Artisans’ Corner will be happy to evaluate them for you. If no problems are spotted, you can take it back home, confident in its great condition. If there is something of concern, the gallery staff will advise you on how they would handle the situation and you can decide on what steps you would like to take.

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www.GeaugaMapleLeaf.com

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The folks at Colonial Beverage are ready to welcome patrons to their new tasting room.

The Best Kept Secret in Chester – A Rustic Tasting Room Submitted Warm wood paneled walls, concrete counter-tops and soft golden lighting greet you as you walk into Chester Township’s best-kept secret — a rustic wine tasting room tucked into the back of Colonial Wine on Mayfield Road.

With cozy seating for about 40 and the ability to stretch to accommodate up to 100, Colonial has expanded its hospitality program, said owner Wes Cowie.

“Our shop has always been known for our quarterly ‘Grand Tastings,’ but when it came to day-to-day hosting of community events, we just didn’t have the right space or capacity to accommodate groups.”

A complete re-model of the interior, including vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, wood paneling and rustic touches throughout was the first step. The Colonial crew didn’t stop there.

“Our entire inventory is now on movable pallets,” said Cowie. “So we can quickly and easily re-configure the shop to accommodate larger groups.

“We’re quickly becoming Chesterland’s first choice for bridal showers, holiday parties, birthday parties, corporate gatherings,

fundraising events and so on. Events hosted at Colonial are surrounded by the largest wine inventory in Northeast Ohio, including a healthy selection of craft beer. A wide array of food options are available from our full kitchen, including house-made bread, charcuterie and an assortment of hand-crafted artisan cheeses. We have become a one-stop hospitality shop.”

If you’re just looking for a quaint place to enjoy a glass of wine and a plate of Brie and prosciutto, the Colonial tasting room has you covered. With extended hours until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, the tasting room is rapidly becoming a favorite town hang-out.

“We offer a value-priced list of wines-by-theglass, with pricing never over $7 a glass, and, of course, any of our thousands of bottles are fair game as well. We modeled ourselves after the Italian enoteca concept — a place to get a humble-but-delicious glass of wine and a small plate or two of bread, cheese and cured meat.

“If you’re curious about hosting an event with Colonial, I invite you to come and visit us,” said Cowie. “Enjoy a glass of wine and see the space for yourself. We never fail to make a good impression.”

Cheers to that.

Gourds, Squashes & Pumpkins, Oh My! MetroCreative Halloween takes place during a time of year characterized by earthen-colored chrysanthemums, leaf-lined walkways and crisp autumn air. As colorful as the costumes children wear for trick-or-treating may be, nature’s beauty is unsurpassed this time of year, and the scores of pumpkins, gourds and squashes on display only add to that colorful melange.

The Cucurbitaceae family may be best known for pumpkins, squash and gourds, but there actually are 800 species that belong to this family. While they share many of the same properties, these fruits each have their own unique attributes.

The main differences between squashes, gourds and pumpkins is their intended purposes — whether they’re ornamental or edible.

Squash

Squashes come in summer and winter varieties. Winter ones do not actually grow in the winter; in fact, they’re harvested in late summer and early fall, but the name references the hard shell casing. Zucchini are summer squash because their outer flesh is tender, while butternut, acorn, spaghetti, and hubbard squashes are winter squashes because they feature a tough skin.

Gourds

Gourds are essentially ornamental squashes; they aren’t cultivated for eating. Instead they are bred to look beautiful and unique in autumn centerpieces. Types of gourds include autumn wing gourd, warted gourds, turban gourds, and bottle gourds. Each gourd is unique in its shape and color.

Pumpkins

Pumpkins come in ornamental and edible varieties. Even though all pumpkins can be consumed, some taste better than others. Small pumpkins tend to be decorative because, according to Nutritious Life, they do not have enough meat inside to make them worthy of cooking. However, sugar pumpkins are best for baking and cooking favorite recipes, states the resource Pumpkin Nook.

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, October 4, 2018

A Fresh Drink of Water

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In its pristine state, water is colorless, tasteless and odorless. So, if your water tastes or smells funny, you owe it to yourself to find out why. That’s where the experts at Kinetico come in. With a simple, no-cost, in-home water test, Kinetico can give you the confidence to provide everyone in your family with fresh, clean, great-tasting water without worry or concern.

Prepare for Visiting Elder Guests MetroCreative Homeowners may find themselves hosting senior guests several times throughout a typical year. These occasions can be wonderful opportunities for making memories, but homeowners may need to take certain precautions to ensure that guests are safe and comfortable. This may involve making some minor modifications around the home.

Mobility and comfort needs for seniors may differ those necessary to accommodate other guests. Meeting the needs of senior guests may involve any of the following.

• Make sure pathways leading to and from the home are level, cleared and easy to see.

• If possible, add a ramp over stairs that lead to the front door. Ensure handrails are sturdy.

• Remove clutter and excess furniture if a guest visiting will be using a walker or a manual/motorized wheelchair.

• Remove accent rugs from a home, and be sure that any mats are secured with nonslip material.

• Increase lighting in entryways, staircases and hallways, especially areas leading to kitchens or bathrooms.

• If guests will be staying overnight, arrange sleeping accommodations on the first floor and/or in a room closest to the bathroom.

• Well-placed grab bars in the bathroom can be an asset. See if you can borrow a portable shower seat to make bathing or showering easier for overnight senior guests.

• For long-term guests, consider replacing round doorknobs and other pulls with lever-action ones that are easy to grab.

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Choose the Right Window Treatments for Your Home MetroCreative Plantation shutters? Mini-blinds? Cafe curtains? Formal draperies? Homeowners’ options in regard to window treatments for their homes are extensive, which can make outfitting home interiors challenging for novice decorators.

Some people do not pay a lot of attention to window treatments, failing to realize just how great an impact the right window treatments can have on a space. According to the design experts at Hunter Douglas, window treatments are often an afterthought because residents may not consider them necessities.

As a result, homeowners may install whatever is on hand or accept window treatments that came with a house or apartment. But ignoring window treatments, especially when they can fulfill certain needs, is a missed design opportunity.

One of the first steps to choosing window treatments is determining your end goal.

Is privacy your main goal? Are you seeking more natural light in a room? Is there too much light and you need to darken the room?

Window treatments can serve multiple functions, and some treatments may make better fits depending on homeowners’ ultimate goals.

Semi-sheer window treatments

Semi-sheer window treatments are often fabric and can help brighten rooms with natural light but offer little privacy. They’re usually appropriate for spaces where people gather, such as living rooms, dens or dining rooms. Semi-sheer curtains may be paired with another complementary window treatment so privacy can be customized as needed. For example, sheer curtains let light into a bedroom, but shades can be drawn at night.

Maximum privacy

Bedrooms, work spaces or bathrooms can benefit from extra privacy. While some people may think that privacy comes at the cost of light, that’s not always the case.

Functional curtain panels can be drawn closed when privacy is desired and then opened to let in light. The thickness of the fabric will also dictate the amount of privacy the panels create.

Tiers are hung on a short rod-pocket panel and usually cover the lower one-third of a window. They’re popular choices to let light in from the top, but obscure views from the bottom portion of the window.

Cellular shades are another option that provide privacy but still let light in. Cellular shades come in hard and fabric varieties and their use depends on the room. Many cellular shades are constructed with a honeycomb design, offers the design resource Houzz, so they can insulate as well as decorate windows.

Blackout shades/shutters

Perfect for rooms where babies nap, shift workers rest during daylight hours or external lights, such as that from a street lamp, need to be blocked out, blackout shades do just what their name implies. A dense fabric lining helps keep light out entirely.

Shutters also can block out light but add to the character of the room. They can be painted a bright color to make a statement or match wall colors to blend in seamlessly.

When selecting window treatments, shoppers can choose retail options or custom treatments. Many designers recommend custom window treatments because they are measured, manufacturered and installed specifically for homeowners’ windows. However, there are many DIY options available at budget-friendly retailers.

Geauga County Maple Leaf

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Gearing Up for Hunting Season MetroCreative Big game and migratory bird hunting is a billion-dollar industry that attracts millions of enthusiasts across North America. According to Statistics Brain, 12.5 million people over the age of 16 hunt annually, and 220 million days are spent hunting each year.

Nature-based tourism and resident and nonresident hunting is also big business in Canada. According to the Guide Outfitters Association of British Columbia, these industries generate $120 million and employ roughly 2,000 guide outfitters in this province alone.

Hunters provide a necessary service besides keeping game animal numbers within reason. They are the eyes and ears on the ground, and help inform wildlife management decisions. Hunting also generates benefits from hunter-supported organizations like conservation groups, habitat enhancement services and restoration outfits.

Hunters require certain gear to ensure safe and productive trips. Here are some must-have items for any hunter’s packing list.

Hunting knife

No hunting expedition is complete without a quality knife, which is an invaluable tool. Knives come in different sizes. Many hunters carry a fixed blade knife to field dress a kill and for self-defense against larger animals. Every day carry knives, or EDCs, also are another sound investment.

EDCs may be paired with other gadgets to form a handy multitool, which is vital in many different applications.

Trail markers/light strips

Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts can mark their way to a hunting spot or tree stand and see the path in the dark thanks to illuminated light strips. This helps avoid getting lost at dusk and dawn.

Hunting apparel

Hunting apparel includes coats, pants, waders, boots, hats, gloves, and much more.

Depending on the game to be hunted, attire will be patterned in camouflage to blend into surroundings or blaze orange to set hunters apart and make them more visible to fellow outdoorsmen. Deer cannot distinguish color, so bright orange is commonly worn during deer season. Sales associates from popular outdoor equipment retailers can advise about appropriate attire. Considerations to habitat and weather should be made.

Storage pack

Hunters require a lightweight, accessible pack that provides easy-to-reach storage.

A variety of options are available, and there are even models that have a tree stand work shelf, rifle and bow mount, as well as a removable small items organizer.

Swiveling bi- or tripod

A small tripod can help hunters stay on moving game and remain steady for the shot.

Pivoting or swiveling action keeps a hunter’s movement smooth and on target.

Binoculars

Every hunter can benefit from a good set of binoculars. High-quality binoculars will feature glare- and fog-resistant lenses.

Tree stand

A tree stand platform gives hunters the advantage of an elevated position, which offers better vantage points and keeps them out of the scent line of prey. Tree stands should be coupled with safety harnesses.

Investing in quality hunting equipment can make for a higher success rate and greater comfort while engaging in this popular hobby.

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