The HOME Monthly Eastern Edition by HAN Network

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July 2008

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Garden

Monthly

Better Lawns And Gardens Cultivating Relationships

Summertime Delight A Traveling Sundae Bus

A Love Of Stone Walls Keeps Right On Building

Home of the Month

The Valley Gazette The Stratford Star The Amity Observer Fairfield Sun The Monroe Courier

The Oxford Gazette The Milford Mirror The Trumbull Times The Huntington Herald The Easton Courier

Home of the Month, Milford. Photo by Audra Napolitano

A Hersam Acorn Special Section

Vol. II, Number 7

On the beach in Milford

Cultivating great relationships by R.E. Glowa

Better Lawns and Gardens’ goal is to provde customers with expert advice and topquality products to assure satisfying success.

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Lush lawns and glorious gardens are a result of hard work, diligence, blessings from Mother Nature and the appropriate use of the proper products. Often homeowners are baffled by the conditions of their lawns or gardens and don’t know how best to resolve the problems. Sean Minerly of Better Lawns and Gardens has the answers to all lawn and gardening issues. Sean and his wife, Danielle, opened their business in April. Their goal is to provide customers with expert advice and top-quality products and tools to create spectacular results. Sean honed his pool of knowledge selling landscaping products for other suppliers for 16 years. Danielle says of Sean’s expertise, “Tell him your problem, he’ll give you a solution.” Sean says, “I identify and diagnose what your lawn needs. Each property is unique. I specialize in providing specific solutions for each lawn by using the right products. We can even provide a fully organic program if desired.” Better Lawns and Gardens has the feel of an old-fashioned feed store. Customers who stop by often linger, perching on big bags of grass seed and potting soil, to chat for a while. A frequent visitor to the store is Nicholas, a six-month-old St. Bernard puppy. While his human purchases dog food, Nicholas sprawls on the floor, where all can admire his massive paws and big, handsome body.

ASK SEAN!!!

Dependable Lawn Advice You Won’t Find at Bigger Box Stores! ��

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The HOME Monthly, a Hersam Acorn special section, Shelton, Conn.

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It’s this casual, friendly atmosphere that makes shopping at Better Lawns and Gardens a delightful experience. Sean smiles a big smile and says, “This is an experience like you can’t get anywhere else. It’s not just a walk-in-and-grab kind of place. We’re on a first-name basis with our customers.” Everything that’s needed to feed, seed, weed and enhance lawns and gardens can be found at Better Lawns and Gardens, such as potting soil, humus, compost, top soil, blooming mix, grub killer, Holly Tone, mulch and fertilizer. All the essential tools are available, including pitchforks, shovels, hedge clippers and garden hoses. Pest-control products such as mole traps, mole and gopher sonic spikes, mosquito, termite, wasp and hornet sprays all aid in vacating varmints. As well as being the supplier of dog food for one very huge dog, Better Lawns and Gardens also stocks chicken, pigeon, rabbit, and horse feed. Goods for the garden include watering cans, weed-control fabric, tomato cages, and Japanese beetle traps. Better Lawns and Gardens carries Franchi Sementi seed packets from Italy. Sean says that “these seeds come to us from a supplier in New York City and people love them!” The selection includes hard to find calabacita squash. Better Lawns and Gardens is at 1 Chestnut St., Ansonia, 203-735-5296. Hours are Mon. to Fri. 7-5, Sat. 7-3, closed Sun. ■

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The

HOME Monthly

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Vol. II, Number 7 is a special section to: The Valley Gazette, The Oxford Gazette, The Stratford Star, The Milford Mirror, The Amity Observer, The Trumbull Times, Fairfield Today, The Huntington Herald, The Monroe Courier and The Easton Courier • 80,000 copies published monthly • Jackie Perry, editor Bryan Haeffele, designer • Thomas B. Nash, publisher • For advertising information, call 203-438-6544 Ridgefield 203-926-2080 Shelton • For information on editorial submissions, call 203-894-3380 E-mail: home@acorn-online.com • Extra copies are available free at the Hersam Acorn office, 1000 Bridgeport Avenue, Shelton, Conn. Copyright 2008, Hersam Acorn Newspapers, LLC

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1000 Bridgeport Avenue Shelton, Connecticut 06484

The HOME Monthly, a Hersam Acorn special section, Shelton, Conn.

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The HOME Monthly, a Hersam Acorn special section, Shelton, Conn.

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Something there is about a stone wall by Joanne Greco Rochman

Aleta Stephen

“Something there is that doesn’t love a wall,” wrote Robert Frost in his poem “Mending Wall.” It’s an interesting poem about two neighbors who annually take to repairing the stone wall dividing their property. His neighbor says, “Good fences make good neighbors.” But Frost is not happy with that response. He thinks, “Before I built a wall I’d ask to know/What I was walling in or walling out.” The poem can be taken literally or as a metaphor for human connection and the breaking down of barriers. However, I strongly disagree with Mr. Frost’s assertion about not loving a wall. New Englanders not only love their stone walls, they’re obsessed with them. How much do we love them? Well, enough that recently the theft of stones from old, meandering woodland and country walls prompted the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation to name the walls among the state’s most endangered properties. Last year, USA Today quoted Robert Thorson, a professor at the University of Connecticut and author of Stone by Stone: The Magnificient History of New England’s Stone Walls. He said, “The walls are no less antique than a piece of Chippendale furniture, but you wouldn’t take a Chippendale apart for the wood.” Yes, early farmers built walls to keep livestock from eating crops or from other livestock, but rarely is that their function today. Stones are being stolen because of a passion for stone walls as a decorative feature on properties, and people are willing to pay big bucks for rocks. If you’re wondering why people are so hung up on stone

New Englanders not only love their stone walls, they are obsessed by them.

See Stone page 14

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We Have the Largest Selection of “All Weather” Fabric in New England

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July 2008

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�� The HOME Monthly, a Hersam Acorn special section, Shelton, Conn.

Fabulous decorating made affordable by R.E. Glowa Having trouble creating comfortable living spaces in your home that sparkle with panache, practicality and livability? Are your rooms missing that certain something that will give your home the unique flair that expresses your personality? Want to improve and enhance your home, but feel limited by a strict budget? John Scholling of JMS Starling Home Enhancements specializes in bringing new life to your residence. He believes that homeowners can “be in

charge of their own decorating.” Under his expert guidance, clients gain the knowledge and confidence to transform their home, making it truly theirs. When it comes to decorating, John believes in developing a personal relationship with his clients. He begins the process by consulting with clients to get to know them — their lifestyle, specific needs and what makes them feel comfortable.

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Under John Scholling’s expert guidance, clients gain the knowledge and confidence to transform their home, making it truly theirs.

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The HOME Monthly, a Hersam Acorn special section, Shelton, Conn.

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July 2008

I SCREAM, YOU SCREAM, WE ALL SCREAM FOR...

Ice cream! by Robin Glowa

What’s more fantastic than a luscious ice cream sundae, teeming with candy toppings and crowned with a big pile of whipped cream and a cherry? How about your very own sundae-making party in your own backyard? Marilyn and Gene Atkas, owners of the Country Creamery in Oxford, are bringing sweet satisfaction to kids of all ages with their Fabulous Traveling Sundae Bus. When Marilyn had the brainstorm to take sundae-making parties on the road, Gene thought she was really on to something. Next thing Marilyn knew, Gene had found an old bus, refurbished it and suddenly the idea turned into reality. While Marilyn and Gene do primarily birthday parties, the Sundae Bus can also be hired for grand openings, corporate functions, festivals, or any special occasion. As a former teacher, Marilyn really knows what appeals to young kids, and she supervises the parties with great enthusiasm. “It’s so awesome to watch the kids as Gene backs the bus in. They all come running, they are so excited. Especially the birthday person!” All the necessary items for a super sundae party are found on the big white bus. The new interior is wildly cheery, with bright pink, purple and green cabinets and the same color polka dots emblazoned on the ceiling. The birthday person receives a goody bag, T-shirt, hat, and a balloon. The guests also receive hats and goody bag coupons. Then it’s on to the ice cream! The sundae-making station offers soft-serve ice cream in vanilla, chocolate or a swirl of the two flavors. Customers choose a selection of toppings ahead of time, which may include such yummy indulgences as Gummi bears or worms, chocolate sprinkles, crushed Oreos, caramel, or toasted coconut. “The kids really pile on the toppings,” Marilyn says with a grin. “I teach the little ones how to spray the whipped cream. They come up to me with their fingers out; they just love to do things themselves. Whipped cream ends up going everywhere!” Adults may love the sundae parties even more than the children, according to Marilyn. “It makes them feel like kids again. They laugh and giggle ... and comment on how they haven’t had a Gummi bear in ages!” When she’s not supervising the sundae parties, Marilyn is back at the Country Creamery dishing up incredible ice cream concoctions. “We have something for everyone — sugar-free ice cream, low-fat and fat-free yogurt, 18 to 20 flavors of hard

The Fabulous Traveling Sundae Bus is filled with color, fun and delectable delights.

“It’s so awesome to watch the kids as Gene backs the bus in. They all come running, they are so excited. Especially the birthday person!”

See Sundae page 13 July 2008

The HOME Monthly, a Hersam Acorn special section, Shelton, Conn.

On the Beach

Home of the Month June 2008 LOCATION: Three levels provide superb views from this home in the Ft. Trumbull/Silver Sands area of Milford. PROPERTY: A double-width lot offers plenty of space for family and friends to enjoy ocean-side living. An above-ground pool provides fresh-water fun, as well. HOUSE: Panoramic views of the Sound are complemented by a comfortable, spacious home, with a balcony and deck for summertime living. Twelve rooms include a living room with ďŹ replace, formal dining room, eat-in kitchen with island, a family room, master bedroom and bath with whirlpool, four more bedrooms, two baths, and a full, unďŹ nished basement. GARAGE: Two-car attached. PRICE: $2,395,000. REALTY: West Shore Realty. AGENT: Mike Tarantino, 203-874-0523. PHOTOGRAPHY: Audra Napolitano.

Fabulous continued from page 6 He helps clients zero in on good design and guides them toward what will best express their personality and way of life. “By being in charge of their own decorating and involved in each step, my clients maintain control of the project and arrive at a place of pride and satisfaction,” John says. Once he becomes more familiar with his clients’ wishes, he begins to assemble ideas for them to explore. He gathers color swatches, fabric samples, magazine articles, and photos to help them decide what they like, and from there a theme can

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develop. Inspiration often comes from the customers, whether it be from a favorite hobby, interest or color. John is a hands-on decorator and designer. “You have to be everything to everybody,” he says. “I provide a full array of services, from shopping for and with my clients, color consulting, arranging for new upholstery. I have been sewing since I was 13 and am a great seamstress. I can do window treatments, slipcovers, seat covers, drapes, and tablecloths,” he says, adding, “ I often will take leftover fabric and create a piece of custom artwork to finish off the room.” John’s clientele is highly family-oriented. “I enjoy being a family decorator,” he says. “One of my goals is making families completely comfortable in their own homes.” He often does multi-room assignments, such as refreshing and enlivening the kitchen, bedrooms and living room. Kids often take part in the consultation, and they have very definite ideas about how they would like their bedrooms to look. By playing off color schemes and kids’ personal interests, John is able to pull together unique and fun looks for their rooms. The theme for one little girl’s bedroom was An American Girl in Paris, complete with Eiffel Tower embellished fabric and other charming details. John says, “Kids have opinions! I love getting them involved. When a project is complete, it’s so great when kids say, ‘I love my room!’” Affordability is a significant consideration in the decorating process. John is sensitive to budget constraints and has an arsenal of ideas to keep costs manageable. “The customer has already made a significant investment in their furniture,” John says. “By moving and rearranging existing furniture we can stay within budget while creating a whole new look. Incorporating new fabrics, colors, bedding, pillows, and other embellishments updates a room in exciting new ways.” He believes in spending enough time on a project to ensure design quality. Doing projects in stages also helps to keep costs in line. John provides a schedule outlining the costs at each step so clients are not overwhelmed with expenses. He is also an expert at shopping for high-quality yet affordable accessories and artwork, another tool he shares with his clients. John spent 27 years in the retail industry as a visual merchandiser and store plan-

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The HOME Monthly, a Hersam Acorn special section, Shelton, Conn.

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�� Sweet Corn, Tomatoes, Herbs, Berries, Apples, Peaches, Greens and Other Vegetables Throughout the Season!

July 2008

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The HOME Monthly, a Hersam Acorn special section, Shelton, Conn.

Fabulous continued from page 10 ner. He opened 50 stores for Lord & Taylor — decorating them, buying furniture, and choosing artwork and fixtures. This experience honed his creative talents and gave him vast experience in setting the stage and creating highly attractive surroundings. The corporate world had its rewards, but John relishes the journey of owning his own business. “It’s an adventure,” he says with a smile. “I find it so interesting working with the people I’ve met. Educating them, tuning them in ... it’s very satisfying for them and for me.” He goes on to say, “In many instances, I become part of the family for a time.” In a world rife with confusion and chaos, most people long to make their homes an attractive, comforting and safe place to gather with friends and family. John recognizes that people want beautiful surroundings without spending a fortune. By working closely with clients, asking the questions to determine what they want most, John finds the inspiration to create fantastic rooms at a reasonable price. Making a house a home is, after all, the ultimate luxury. For more information, call John Scholling at 203-791-0558, or e-mail him at JMSSTARLING@aol.com. ■

A facelift for your home may be as simple as rearranging furniture or adding some new pillows or a coat of paint.

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The HOME Monthly, a Hersam Acorn special section, Shelton, Conn.

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Sundae continued from page 7 ice cream — we even have ice cream for dogs!” For sensational, sweet treats, visit Country Creamery or climb aboard the Fabulous Traveling Sundae Bus! Country Creamery and the Fabulous Traveling Sundae Bus are at Tommy K’s Plaza in Oxford, 203-881-3358, open April through late November. ■

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CORRECTION:

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On the cover of last month’s Home Monthly, the Home of the Month pictured was in Woodbridge not Woodbury.

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The HOME Monthly, a Hersam Acorn special section, Shelton, Conn.

Stone continued from page 5 walls, read on. For starters, stone walls are reminiscent of castles and fortresses. They signify protection and permanence. Besides, with today’s throwaway mentality, there’s a permanence in a stone wall that defies what is disposable. Also, considering today’s bottom-line mentality, stone walls and stone surfaces add value to property. Essentially, from what I’ve read and know about stone walls, there are two kinds. A dry stone

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The HOME Monthly, a Hersam Acorn special section, Shelton, Conn.

wall — without mortar — is the simplest and often most attractive and naturallooking wall. Mortared walls, however, keep out water and roots and are stronger. The old country road I live on would have more aptly been named “Stone Wall Road.” Just about everyone on the street has a fair share of stone walls of both varieties. One reason is because there is an abundance of stone in the area. When my husband and I first started gardening, we swore that rocks grew best here. One neighbor, an avid gardener, uses her stone wall as a backdrop for her pretty flowers. Another neighbor has extensive stone walls delineating the curve of his property. Down the street, there’s a house with a stone wall that encircles a magnificent old oak, and another neighbor has a wall with hydrangea climbing over it. Every wall has its own personality and distinctive style. My nextdoor neighbor’s front wall seems to flow along with the lay of the land. It has graceful curves and is rather low, standing only about three and half feet tall. Little children who visit love to walk along the smooth, flat surface of this wall. She has the same type of wall leading to the garden steps and paths to the woods. Another neighbor has a tall stone wal, but at the end of each side of the wall, flanking his driveway, he has rounded stone pillars, much like turrets on a castle. The people across the street have extensive stone walls that separate their property from the street. And, yes, my husband and I have many stone walls on our property as well. What is so interesting about our perimeter wall is that my husband designed it so that for every six feet of wall, there would be a tall pillar. The main wall that extends from the barn to the house has several pillars. What I like so much about our stone walls is that my husband personalized them. No, I don’t mean with our names engraved in them — although he did that on the walls by the stream. What I mean is that when the masons were building our mortar-type wall, my husband inserted a golf ball. Years from now, some new owner will know that a golfer lived here. At first I thought my husband’s implanted golf ball was silly, but the more I thought about it the more I liked the idea of people permanently leaving a distinctive mark in their walls. Think about it. People could add pretty colored river glass or unusual objects. Just when I thought this could be the start of a new trend, I ��

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July 2008

came upon an article about a man’s ashes being buried in a wall. I also came upon a photo of a stone wall that had an interesting branch of a tree intentionally and artistically imbedded in it, and I realized that creativity may be cast in stone walls, too. We also have a stone wall that rambles along a stream that flows from a small waterfall. Our family names are carved in the cement holding the wall together. It’s as metaphoric as it is literal. The thing is, there’s something to be loved about a stone wall. . ■

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�� Bryan Haeffele

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KITCHEN OFFICE BATH BUILT-INS COUNTERTOPS Visit Our Showroom

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July 2008

The HOME Monthly, a Hersam Acorn special section, Shelton, Conn.

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The HOME Monthly, a Hersam Acorn special section, Shelton, Conn.

July 2008