Medina County November 2016

Medina County NOVEMBER 2016

MedinaCountyLifestyle.com

L

I

F

E

S

T

Y

L

E

â„¢

Farm Table ALL ABOUT AGRICULTURE THE BENEFIT OF CLEAN BEEF WHERE THERE'S A WILL, THERE'S A UNITED WAY

C U S T O M B U I L D I N G Y O U R D R E A M S I N T O Y O U R R E A L I T Y. . .

W E C R E AT E C E R T I F I E D E N E R G Y E F F I C I E N T, M O D E R N C U S T O M

H O M E S , B U I LT T O M AT C H YO U R N E E D S A N D YO U R D R E A M S .

Y O U T E L L U S W H AT Y O U WA N T, W E W I L L L I S T E N .

free cOnsultatiOn discuss yOur visiOn, scOpe Of needs

O nce

& expectatiOns

wOrk tO be perfOrmed

estimated budget

yOu decide tO build with us, we Offer an additiOnal

cOmplimentary

10 hOurs Of cOnsultatiOn

expert interiOr designer frOm

time with Our in-hOuse

the interiOr design studiO.

( 3 3 0 ) 4 6 4 -3 3 69 • M O D E R N H O M E CO N C E P TS . N E T ‘ L I K E ’ U S O N FAC E B O O K A N D F I N D U S O N H O U ZZ !

new spec mOdel ava i l a b l e sOOn!

Need an affordable Medicare plan that’s in step with your life?

I Can Help!

Choosing the right Medicare coverage can be confusing.

I can help you find the Medicare plan that’s right for you and your budget.

Call me at 216-407-9824 for personalized service today!

HealthMarkets Insurance Agency Medicare | Life | Dental & Vision | Long-Term Care

Patrick Althof Licensed Insurance Agent

216-407-9824

3705 Medina Rd. Medina, OH 44256 This is an advertisement. HealthMarkets Insurance Agency is the d/b/a, or assumed name, of Insphere Insurance Solutions, Inc. which is licensed as an insurance agency in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Not all agents are licensed to sell all products. Service and product availability varies by state.

HMIA000556

Lifestyle Letter

From the farm to your fork.

NOVEMBER 2016 PUBLISHER

Richard Mellert | Richard.Mellert@LifestylePubs.com

A

s a lifelong Medina County resident, I have always assumed that agriculture was important to our local economy. However, I had no idea that it was our number one industry. I learned a lot about the processes and hardworking people that take our foodstuffs from the farm to your fork, and I think you will enjoy learning about this evolving industry. It's the perfect time to learn about our food and where it comes from, because Thanksgiving is just around the corner.

I must warn you, though: this magazine is full of food, and your stomach will growl as you flip through these pages. It might be wise to stop by Medina Made for a popcorn snack before you start reading! That actually reminds me, did you know that you can never tell secrets on a farm? Cornstalks have ears. (I thought our farming theme presented the perfect opportunity to be corny.)

As always, I hope you enjoy this moth's issue. Corn jokes aside, farming is a big deal in our community, and it is worth being familiar with an industry that impacts so many local people. At the very least, I hope some of these articles help spark a conversation about farming over your Thanksgiving dinner.

Joe Violi | Joe.Violi@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Nikki Rhoades | Nikki.Rhoades@LifestylePubs.com SALES MANAGER

Carla Adamov | Carla.Adamov@LifestylePubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Paul Nagel CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Yellow Creek Foundation

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

AD COORDINATORS

| Brad Broockerd

| Nicole Sylvester | Janeane Thompson

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Megan Seymour, Chad Jensen

LAYOUT DESIGNERS

| Nicolette Martin, Cyndi King, Jessica Sharky

DESIGN SPECIALIST

| Ashleigh Thomson

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Nikki Rhodes, Editor

| DeLand Shore

| Sara Minor

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Keep in touch!

| Matthew Perry

APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPER

| Melanie Carlisle | Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

by Community ™

MedinaCountyLifestyle.com ON THE COVER Daso Cabinetry, One Eleven Bistro, and JK Gift Shop PHOTOGRAPHY BY Nikki Rhoades

4

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

JOIN US

TALK TO US

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Medina County Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Medina County’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Medina County Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

ARCHITECTURAL JUSTICE IS ONE OF THE LARGEST STOCKING GRANITE FABRICATORS IN NORTHEAST OHIO.

EXPERIENCE NORTHEAST OHIO’S INTERIOR DESIGN DESTINATION OFFERING AN ARTISAN APPROACH TO REMODELS, INTERIOR FINISHES, FURNITURE AND ECLECTIC DÉCOR.

KITCHENS BATHROOMS LIVING SPACES CUSTOM FURNITURE

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

2462 PEARL ROAD MEDINA, OH 44256

BAR + WINE ROOMS

WEEKDAYS 9-5 SATURDAY 9-3 EVENINGS BY APPT

330.225.6000

STAIRCASES

ARCHITECTURALJUSTICE.COM

FIREPLACES

OUTDOOR SPACES

November 2016

Departments

24

8

Around Town

10

Giving Back

12

Healthy Lifestyle

16

Locally Owned

26

Renovate & Refine

28

Hot Spot

32

Lifestyle Calendar

34

Parting Thoughts

18 Where There's a Will, There's a United Way

An inside look at local United Way programs.

20 All About Agriculture

Myths and misconceptions regarding Medina County's #1 industry.

24 The Benefit of Clean Beef

What is it that makes grass-fed beef taste so good?

12

18

Lifestyle Publications Arizona | California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Idaho | Illinois | Kansas | Minnesota | Missouri | Montana North Carolina | Ohio | Oklahoma | South Carolina | Tennessee | Texas | Utah

20

Around Town

AROUND TOWN

The Medina County District Library is also pleased to announce their latest outreach service: Pop-Up Libraries! At Pop-Up Libraries you can apply for a library card, check out library materials, and learn to download and borrow digital media at the click of an app. Keep an eye out for a Pop-Up Library at a community event near you.

JK GIFT SHOP EXPANDS SPACE JK Gift Shop and the Interior Design Studio recently underwent a renovation that expanded both gift shop space and studio space for interior design. They celebrated their grand reopening in October, and if you have not stopped in to see their Medina Square business since then, this trip is a must. The Medina Square business is full of friendly, helpful staff ready to assist you and answer questions.

While you are visiting, be sure to congratulate them for winning Best Residential Revitalization Project for the Main Street Medina RENEW House project. For more information on their services, visit them online at ShopJKGifts.com.

MEDINA COUNTY DISTRICT LIBRARY NEWS

NATURE ART FEST

On December 31, 2016, a position will become available on the

The Medina County Park District is hosting their fifteenth

MCDL Board of Trustees. Advocates of the library should consider

annual Nature Art Fest this month, and you won't want to miss

applying for this seven-year term. Board members are volunteers that

this experience. It is the perfect opportunity to purchase a holiday

must also serve on committees, which will meet throughout the year.

gift for the art lover in your life. Visit Wolf Creek Environmental

Board meetings take place on the third Monday of each month.

Center November 12 between 10 am and 5 pm, and be sure to

Applications can be accessed at your local library or online at MCDL.info/news.

Gifts you want to give

bring the family to enjoy some time in one of Medina County's most beautiful parks.

& Gifts you’d LOVE to get!

Like Us, Review Us, or Follow Us on Facebook or Google to

SAVE 20% off any one regular priced item

www.shopjkgifts.com (Limit one coupon, per person)

GIFT SHOP

207 S Court St, Medina, OH 44256 8

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

Phone (330) 725-7623

Give the Gift of Beauty ABOVE & BEYOND. EVERY GUEST. EVERY TIME

legac yhairstudios.com

Purchase a $50 Gift Card

& receive a Medina: 3723 Stonegate Dr., Medina, Ohio 330-721-7977 Middleburg Heights: 7539 Pearl Rd., Middleburg Heights, Ohio 440-826-3535 Northfield: 150 East Aurora Rd., Northfields, Ohio 44067 330-467-3099 Wadsworth: 174 Great Oaks Trail, Wadsworth, Ohio 44281 330-336-7074

FREE $10 Gift Card

PEACE. LOVE. GIVING. Mills Tree Care LLC 33 Years Experience Expert Climber

Services Provided:

Commercial & Residential • Tree Trimming & Removing • Deadwooding • Chipping • Firewood • Stump Grinding • Snowplowing • Fully Insured & Bonded

Mention This Ad for November Specials

63’ 4WD Bucket Truck

10% Off for Senior Citizens & Military

(330) 336-7472 | Serving Medina County November 2016 | Medina County Lifestyle

9

Giving Back

WHAT ABOUT THE ARTICLE NIKKI RHOADES PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

I

n March of 1913, Ohio experienced the worst natural disaster in its history as a state.

Three days of heavy rain resulted in a flood that destroyed thousands of acres of farmland and killed over 450 people. Damages were estimated at $143 million, which equates to over $13 billion in today's currency. The Ohio State Legislature enacted the Conservancy Act, which allows different geographic regions to establish Conservancy Districts. Locally, this district would create a conduit for funding an action plan to prevent such a tragedy from occurring again.

In Medina County, we are impacted by the Yellow Creek Watershed, which spans 9 townships, including Sharon Center and Granger. Due to increased development, runoff stormwater has presented a problem for those who reside within the Yellow Creek area. Stream beds are eroding, and water pollution is already a serious problem. As the community continues to grow, the possibility of another potentially destructive f lood encroaches closer and closer.

In 2014, the Yellow Creek area was impacted by flooding. Brenda McShaffrey saw a need to take advantage of the Conservancy Act, and she took action to form the Yellow Creek Foundation, a nonprofit that will grow into a Conservancy District once their petition gathers enough signatures.

10

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

“We became a nonprofit in May,” says McShaffrey, the organization President. “Our goal is ongoing education, and to maintain a fund to enhance watershed stability.”

“This is the only approach proven to control flooding,” adds Director Mark Spisak. “Flooding can't be stopped, but it can be controlled.”

Aside from potential flooding, how does the state of the Yellow Creek Watershed impact life in Medina County?

“Water is a scarce resource,” says Spisak.

“We are very lucky here. Some places are treating wastewater, injecting it in the ground, and drinking it. We have plenty of water, we need to treat it accordingly. Minimizing flooding will increase recharge of water in aquifer.

The headwaters of Yellow Creek are Sharon Center, Granger, Copley, and Bath. Areas where residents have wellwater problems and farmers have irrigation issues.”

Director James Stender explains that problems stem from the heavily eroded state of the Yellow Creek Watershed. Due to erosion and excess runoff, it has expanded and changed, gotten rid of oxbows, and moved sediment.

“When that happens, roads flood out,” explains Stender. “There is a house that has been abandoned at the east part of our watershed. There have been cars that have flooded away, it is happening all around here. Having a Conservancy District will provide us to take action in a way that the affected townships are unable to do on their own.”

The state of our watershed is a genuine safety concern, and the quality of the water impacts our health and our locally grown food. The water quality could be improved, as the lack of macroinvertibrates and fish in local tributaries implies a suffering water quality. By sustaining our local watershed, we improve property values and keep our community as beautiful as it was meant to be.

So far, local reception has been warm.

College professors are offering assistance in spreading information, and local students have been volunteering their time with the Yellow Creek Foundation.

“Our biggest challenge is by far just getting the signatures,” says Spisak. “It's just getting the right people who live in the water shed and primarily reside in the water shed. Our overall goal is that our neighboring watersheds will do the same thing.”

“We are confident we will get a conservancy district established,” says McShaffrey. “It will lead to a more beautiful Ohio, safer roads, and higher water quality. Higher water quality and easier irrigation efforts leads to better crops, which grows healthier people. The state of our watershed affects all of us in Northeast Ohio, and it is important to sustain this ongoing education program to make a difference by improving and enhancing the Yellow Creek Watershed.”

Want to learn more about the Yellow Creek Foundation? Visit YellowCreekFoundation.org and find out how you can get involved.

(330) 722-8884 7080 WOOSTER PIKE MEDINA, OHIO 44256

]

]

LANDSCAPE DESIGN & FULL SERVICE MAINTENANCE CUSTOMIZED FOR YOUR HOME AND LIFESTYLE • NEW INSTALLS & RENOVATIONS • PATIO PAVERS & RETAINING WALLS • OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES

[

ur home Let Peters make yo

Picture Perfect!

CAN BRING 10% WE OUTDOOR dreams to reality OFF YOUR

CALL NOW for Fall Clean-Ups & Snow Removal Services

AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR:

Serving all your Snow Removal Needs since 1992

Present this coupon at time of estimate.

$1000 maximum discount.

Excluding Weaver Barns

Offer expires November 30th, 2016. Not valid with any other offer.

PETERSLANDSCAPINGOHIO.COM

Millennium Rehabilitation Physical Therapy

Choose Locally-Owned, One-on-One Care For Your Physical Therapy Needs Orthopedic Physical Therapy • Sports Injury Rehabilitation • Post-Surgical Rehabilition • Hinckley Parma 2546 Center Road 7472 Ridge Road (330) 558-0100 (440) 842-4444 www.m-rehab.com

• Work Injury Rehabilititation • Arthritis/Pain Management • Balance Disorders Dr. Trish Strazar, PT, DPT, MS, SCS, ATC Dr. Vicky Chmura, PT, DPT Dr. Matt Ely, PT, DPT Lindsey Kantura, PTA November 2016 | Medina County Lifestyle

11

Healthy Lifestyle

Lasers can DO THAT? ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY NIKKI RHOADES

L

uciana McCartney has always had a passion for holistic health. However, she would not discover her passion for laser therapy until she was searching for the best way to help her husband quit smoking several years ago.

“He had one treatment of laser therapy and it was completely successful,” she says, shaking her head in awe. After countless times of trying to quit, one treatment did it! That was huge. That led me to learn, research, understand, and eventually help others who were struggling. ” Laser therapy treatments are similar to acupuncture, and are a painless and effective merging of ancient medicine and modern technology. Laser therapy is a process that includes applying a cold, low-level laser to specific pressure points of the body. McCartney applies her healing touch at AcuLaser Treatment Centre, where she uses laser therapy to assist with stress management, smoking cessation, and weight management.

“Being skeptical is natural—my practice is not the norm,” she admits. “I love helping people who have struggled with issues such as stress, weight, and addictions for years. I love helping them. They come see me after their treatment to say, ‘I cannot believe this works’ with excitement and a feeling of accomplishment.”

Smoking cessation therapy is one of AcuLaser's specialties. This therapy involves using a biolaser light to stimulate acupuncture points related to stress, anxiety, and relaxation to help combat withdrawal symptoms. It can also be applied to appetite suppression points if weight gain is a concern.

Laser therapy is a safe and painless procedure that McCartney is truly one of the most effective methods of quitting.

“Your central nervous system relaxes,” she explains. “It provides you a very calming effect, which helps you feel more relaxed and controlled. Some people experience addiction levels rather strongly, so we provide extra doses at no additional charges.”

Drugs that treat addiction can have rather serious side effects. McCartney points out the ridiculousness of kicking a nicotine addiction with the assistance of more nicotine, and relates it to telling an alcoholic that passing up liquor in favor of wine will help them break a habit. The assistance CONTINUED >

12

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

Change Your Life for the Better:

Lose Weight With Light!

90 day weight loss program with technology that uses science & nature through the use of low level laser therapy.

CALL TODAY

TO RECEIVE

$100 OFF

NO Diet Pills • NO Supplements • NO Calorie Counting Controls Appetite • Controls food Cravings Increases Metabolism

is o

D

Ja

m

S

3505 East Royalton Road Broadview Heights, Ohio 44147 (440) 740-1020 | aculasertreatment.com

s, n P. H e ndrick

D

Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry, Orthodontics, One-Visit Crowns and the latest technology for your entire family’s needs

4181 CENTER ROAD, BRUNSWICK, OH 44212 • 330-225-1433 • HENDRICKSDENTISTRY.COM

November 2016 | Medina County Lifestyle

13

Healthy Lifestyle

(CON TI N UED)

The difference is in our people, our work and our selection.

Get Ready for Holiday Entertaining!

Now is the time to have your kitchen, bar or bath updated with a little help from Chippewa Stone!

Holiday Special: Free stainless steel undermount sink OR ($250 value)

A Blanco composite sink for $350.00 Includes coordinating inserts (reg.$600)

Minimum 35 sq. ft. granite purchase, not to be combined with any other offer. *Coordinating inserts included with Blanco composite sink only.

Single bowl sinks not included in offer.

Family Owned & Operated

4930 Chippewa Road Unit F Medina, Ohio 44256 330.662.4202 • mychippewastone.com 14

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

of laser therapy is effective in helping smokers quit thanks to its calming effects and targeting of withdrawal symptoms. Laser therapy's calming effects expand far beyond management of withdrawal symptoms, though.

Laser therapy can assist in weight control, as well. AcuLaser enhances weight loss by stimulating points associated with appetite, craving, and pain management to help you reach your desired weight. The 90 day program includes three laser treatments, instruction regarding clean eating, sugar detoxing, and phototherapy support without the use of weight loss stimulants. It is a holistic approach to weight control.

The best thing about laser therapy is that it is low stress, as it is painless and helps you gain control and freedom from bad habits.

“We can also use laser therapy to relieve the symptoms of stress. Stress treatments will stimulate pressure points to stimulate the central nervous system, release endorphins, and adjust your cortisol levels. It is all about helping you gain control. Our bodies can take a beating when we are stressed, and this all-natural treatment allows energy to flow through the proper meridians.It's all natural. Without putting drugs into the body, without the threat of side effects, you have nothing to lose but cigarettes, weight, and stress. And control is one of the biggest advantages you will gain.”

For 11 years, AcuLaser has been treating patients in the Northeast Ohio area. Various therapy packages are available to help you cross the stepping stones to a healthier lifestyle. For more information on AcuLaser's programs, visit AcuLaserTreatment.com or call 440.740.1020 to set up a consultation.

Locally Owned

Spotlight on

ARTICLE PAUL NAGEL

W

hen folks in Medina county head off-road, they usually head to State 8 Motorcycle and ATV first. State 8 has been a leader in the ATV and UTV business longer than any other dealer in the county and also boasts the most popular and innovative brand: Polaris.

Whether you're looking to get a job done with a workhorse UTV on your acreage, or simply seeking family fun, State 8 has the vehicles to fit the bill. Owner Paul Compton is part of a family with motorcycles and ATVs running in their blood. In fact, both his brother Kirk and dad Gar are part of an operation that represents two dealerships and carrying nine different brands. But Polaris is the one that most seek when they want an ATV or the new extremely popular side-by-side (also known as SxS and UTV) off road vehicles. State 8 Polaris features a lineup of side-by-sides that are great for adventure seeking families, with models that can transport up to six passengers through the trails! Polaris sideby-sides are the industry leader in both sales and innovation.

"Polaris gives a buyer the features they want at the best value," explains Compton. "When you need a vehicle to take camping, work on your pond, haul firewood, and plow your drive, Polaris will have a model that is a perfect fit without compromise."

Many professional businesses choose Polaris because of their durability and dependability, including one organization that really means

business—the U.S. Armed Forces. Polaris ATVs are the choice of hunters and recreational ATV riders too, with the famous Sportsman models leading the pack. The Sportsman is great for "around the property" jobs and plowing too. On the UTV side of the aisle, Polaris has introduced a new best seller, "The General," featuring power steering, 100 horsepower and many more innovative ride-enhancing features.

A big advantage that State 8 has is that with their brisk sales volume they carry a wide variety of Polaris ATVs and UTVs in stock at all times. State 8 also accepts trade-ins of any brand ATV, motorcycle or scooter to make your deal the best one possible. Another option is one of many used ATVs or UTVs on State 8's showroom floor, all inspected for safety bumper to bumper, top to bottom, by the State 8 crew. Beyond sales, State 8 in Medina also features a complete service center with expert technicians that are experienced on repair and maintenance of all makes and models of ATVs, Motorcycle and UTVs. You' will also find an extensive parts and accessories selection. What is not in stock can easily be ordered for installation or over the counter purchase. Fully enjoy your fall and get ready for winter... or just add some fun to the family line-up with a new or used Polaris from State 8!

Call 330.239.1950, visit www.state8.com, or stop by and say hi to Paul at the State 8 showroom on Route 18 westbound just west of Route 94.

$10 OFF purchase of

Molly’s Fashion Boutique Quality. Unique. Trendy. Chic

140 W. Washington St. Medina, OH 44256 (330) 725-6830 | missmollys.net Store Hours: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Saturday 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Sundays

By Appointment. Friday nights 16

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

$50 OR MORE on non-sale items

Call Now

to book your Premier Concierge Shopping Appointment

Decor for any style.

• OUTDOOR PATIO FURNITURE • POLY/WOODEN SWING SETS • HOME DECOR • GAZEBOS

INDOOR AND OUTDOOR GIFTS....

YOUR ONE STOP SHOP!

swisscountrylawn.com

2131 OH 39 Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681 | 888.852.2031 | HRS: MON.-SAT. 9AM-5PM

® Locally Owned and Operated Since 2009

Pulse

We Put The Back Into Your Vehicle!

®

Give Your Vehicle The Ultimate Protection from Ohio’s Harsh

WINTER WEATHER

Get Nip Tuck Auto’s WINTERIZE DETAILING PACKAGE !

Our paint sealer is a cross link molecular structure that sticks better to your vehicle’s painted surface so dirt and salt won’t.

Go to NipTuckAuto.com

for complete package details & pricing We Specialize in Total Auto Appearance Services

(330) 321-1065

1484 Medina Rd., Suite # 103

NipTuckAuto.com Hours

Monday - Saturday 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM OUR SERVICES ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Gift Certificates Available

Complete Auto Detailing- SPA • Paintless Dent Repair • Opti-Coat & Ceramic Pro • Auto Glass Repair & • Replacement Paint Correction • Paint Protection Film •

• Paint Sealer/ Sealants Protection • Overspray Removal • Scratch & Swirl Marks Removal • Bad Odor Treatment • Headlight Restoration • Vinyl, Lettering, & Decals Removal

Undercarriage Rust Proofing Corrosion caused by rain, salt, & snow is a single destructive force & the greatest threat to your vehicle. Fluid film penetrates to the base metal, providing a lasting, protective barrier from the corrosive effect.

November 2016 | Medina County Lifestyle

17

Where There’s A Will, There’s A

United Way ARTICLE NIKKI RHOADES | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

“E

veryone at United Way comes together for one common thing—they love working and living in Medina County,” says Board Member Carrie Park.

United Way of Medina County is truly a gem in terms of what they do. By networking with local organizations, they address local needs by providing funding to more than 17 programs designed to improve lives, strengthen communities, and bring together the people that comprise those communities. By studying the root cause of problems, United Way organizations across the country strive to raise funding to tackle problems related to education, income stability, and health. They collaborate with community partners by providing funding to address problems in these areas, and along the way they assist the organizations by helping them achieve goals and plugging holes where funding is needed.

18

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

Their website summarizes that the group strives to, “educate our stakeholders, gather and disseminate the data that informs our work, collaborate with our community partners, measure outcomes, and raise the funding needed to ensure Medina County continues to be a vibrant community for us all!”

Board Member Carrie Park and Director of Community Impact Angela Niemiec are both passionately involved in their work with United Way, and they take pride in knowing that they assist in the effective use of donations to improve and strengthen the Medina County Community. They sat down with Medina County Lifestyle to discuss some of their favorite local programs and how you can get involved.

1

TODDLERS AND PRESCHOOLERS SUCCEEDING (TAPS)

Niemiec: Child Guidance and Family Solutions' professionals go into various

preschools and work with the teachers to educate them on how to work with at-risk children to keep them from falling behind. and working to educate on the importance of early literacy. TAPS training and on-site support helps teachers who may not have the training or things they need to succeed.

Parks: The set of learning has changed with different generations. As a giant organization, we look at global changes and have the funding to react to sweeps and changes in the community. One of the changes we have noted is that locally, only 35 percent of families with young children read to them daily—that number is 15 percent below the state average. TAPS helps prepare students for academic challenges at a young age.

2

E4 YOUTH SUMMIT

Niemiec: E4 (educate, empower, engage, and equip) is a biennial program that brings

together high school students from throughout the county. Facilitators at this event help narrow in on high school issues through panel discussions and reflection. We've heard for the last twenty years about bullying, but now we can get these kids together and find out what exactly they are hearing about in the hallway so that we may begin to address the social issue. This is voluntary, so all high school participants decided to do this. If they are courageous enough to sign up, they are courageous enough to speak up.

With their assistance, we can make a list and identify the isuues with which the students are experiencing.Participants are offered a voice and tools to reach their full potential.

Park: Educating our youth is important.

By working with them, we can help address issues while assisting them in becoming community leaders. And it is important to offer volunteering opportunities to young people, because they are oftentimes some of our most enthusiastic volunteers.

3.

3

2-1-1

Park: One of the important things that we do is plug holes. If there is a need, we would like to address it and fix it by targeting the root of the problem. People cover up insecurities very well, which is why this service is particularly useful.

Niemiec: You know you can call 9-1-1 if you need help. 2-1-1 is like a social service hotline. You can call and say you have a problem, and you don't know where to

start. Our operators will tell you that this is the organization you want to reach out to, or this is how you go about addressing this issue. Say an aunt just got custody of her niece and does not have money for school clothes, or a veteran needs a transport to his medical appointment.

Our operators will get you in contact with the right group to assist you. At the same time, we can also collect data on what the most pressing matters are in the community. It is a good avenue for us to target areas where we need to step it up.

4

EMPLOYING MEDINA COUNTY (EMC)

Park: When you hear about homelessness in Medina County, it is almost surprising.

It is rather difficult to spot, but it does exist.

Many people assume that if one is homeless, they can simply get a job. But it is not that simple. Many times, you need a home address to even apply for a job. There are many hurdles that prevent homeless individuals from gaining regular employment.

Niemiec: Employing Medina County strives to help get these people back on their feet in as many ways as they can. EMC works with one local nonprofit, for example, to secure business casual clothing for women. Based on women's sizes and preferences, they help dress them in preparation for interviews. Last year we held a job fest that tackled the issue of dressing for success, and it included conducting interviews and offering instructions for success. Though our

poverty rate is lower than surrounding areas, it is still an issue that must be addressed.

5

STEP STRONG PROGRAM

Niemiec: Catholic Charities provides this program to help teens focus on making healthy choices, preventing dating violence, and fostering healthy relationships. This program provides resources, and it targets both males and females in teaching respect and understanding of consequences.

Park: They also talk about cyberbullying, like sexting. Though cyberbullying is still fairly new, these things are happening in the schools, and we know they are.

When the program discusses these issues, we've never seen a group of teenagers be so quiet and attentive. They are respectful, because they understand that these are real issues. It gives kids an opportunity to think about their choices. They barely see beyond next week, so we teach them that things online are there forever. These issues require a lot of discussion, and quite frankly these are discussions parents would like to avoid. The Step Strong Program is a way to address problems teens are facing by providing important education.

United Way of Medina County offers a wide variety of programs and volunteer opportunities to engage the community and to tackle problems related to education, income stability, and health.

For more information on these programs and how you can get involved, visit UnitedWayMedina.org.

November 2016 | Medina County Lifestyle

19

ALL ABOUT

AGRICULTURE ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY NIKKI RHOADES

“T

DID YOU

his is the time of year when people are thinking of Thanksgiving, and they do more thinking about their food than any other time of year,” says John Fitzpatrick, Organization Director of the Medina County Farm Bureau.

With food on so many minds, it is also the ideal time of year to dispel misconceptions about agriculture. Fitzpatrick, it turns out, is the perfect person to do that.

“I am the son of a farmer's daughter,” he explains. “In my generation and her generation, daughters were typically not in line to inherit a farm. I tell people I grew up in L.A.—lower Akron. My mother married a rubber worker in Akron, but my grandfather had a farm, so I spent a lot of time there.”

Though Fitzpatrick grew up around farming, he never expected that he would end up working in the industry. For many years, he worked with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where he regularly worked with local farmers.

Eventually, he transferred into a career working with the local branch of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation.

20

OHIO HAS 86 FARM BUREAUS.

OUR PRIMARY CROPS ARE CORN,

The Medina County Farm Bureau is one of 86 county farm bureaus, and together they comprise the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation. Each group has a goal of fostering partnerships between farmers and consumers, and they help advocate for issues impacting farmers to provide a wide variety of food choices to locals.

SOYBEANS, AND HAY.

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

Driving down any country road in the county will bring you face-to-face with fields of corn and soybeans galore, but did you know we also grow a lot of hay? That is used to feed our livestock, including cows, sheep, and goats. It is also used as feed for horses, which

Fitzpatrick shares a surprising fact about: Medina is currently home to more horses now than when we used horses in place of machinery on farms.

According to 2014 statistics released by the Medina County Farm Bureau, 30 percent of gross agricultural income is attributed to livestock sales or livestock-produced products, such

of individual cattle breeds greatly influence the flavor of the meat, so, does the diet we feed them. Grain is an important ingredient in making a perfect steak, as too little intake of grain could impact its flavor.

While incorporating a smaller amount of grain into a cattle's diet can impact the taste of the meat, too much grain can adversely affect the health of an animal, which often leads to a misconception that too much fat in meat is bad for us. In fact, Texan researchers Dr. Stephen Smith and Dr. Brad Johnson found in a 2015 study that beef in its various forms is good for you, regardless of high fat content. This is because as cattle put down marbling, saturated fats are replaced with oleic acid, a healthful fatty acid that increases high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol). They concluded that providing cattle with a diverse diet including grains is important not only to a more tasty cut, but is it is also important in providing health benefits to us. In short, a balanced diet is a universal necessity, and it is worth knowing what factors contribute to keeping you healthy.

AGRICULTURE IS OUR NUMBER ONE INDUSTRY.

as milk or eggs. 56 percent of 2014's gross agricultural income came from traditional rowcrops (our corn and soybeans), and 14 percent came from “other” products, including greenhouse and nursery sales.

YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT.

Cows eat a combination of grains and grasses. They eat corn, soybeans, and field

grasses, which includes alfalfa and other things labeled as “hay.”

The grains that they eat are what marbles the meat. Marbling refers to the distribution of fat within a cut of meat. A high quality steak, for example, would contain an even distribution of hard, white marbling, which would melt as the meat cooks to make it tender, juicy, and flavorful. While the genetics

“Agriculture employs more people, pays more taxes, and generates more total dollars than any other industry in Medina County. Most people don't think of it that way, because our industry is built of 920 smaller farms.”

Fitzpatrick estimates that over 4,000 locals are working in agriculture, excluding seed dealers and corporate dealers.

Though they work on farms ranging from only a few to a few thousand acres, farmers generate a gross agricultural income of nearly $60,533,000. Economists estimate that farm dollars circulate seven times in the local economy, which means that our agricultural roots are continuing to fuel our county's overall economic health.

THAT DIRT ON YOUR VEGGIES WON'T HURT YOU.

Nowadays, many fear that our culture is becoming more frenzied about bacteria. We keep hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes on standby, but bacteria is not necessarily our enemy. In fact, exposure to certain bacteria CONTINUED > is crucial to our survival.

November 2016 | Medina County Lifestyle

21

ALL ABOUT AGRICULTURE

Medina

CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Love God, Love Others, Love Learning

Little Knights Preschool • Preschool: 3, 4 & 5 year old classes available • All Day Preschool Enrichment Center open 5 days a week 6:30am - 6:00pm.

Kindergarten - 8th Grade • Half Day and Full Day Kindergarten • Special Classes - Art, Physical Education, Computer, Music, Spanish and Library • Chapel Service every week • Bible lessons and Christian values woven into daily learning • Sports Programs • Music Lessons • Ski Club, Chess Club, Engineering Club, Lego Robotics Club, Science Club • 6th-8th Grades 1:1 Chromebooks

Special Programs

330-725-3227

www.mcaschool.net 3646 Medina Road Medina, Ohio 44256

• Before and After School Care • Christmas and Spring Music Programs • Miscellaneous Clubs and more! *Ed Choice Scholarships available from ODE for K - 3rd grade.

Go to education.ohio.gov for information or call 330-725-3227 *Financial Assistance available. Call 330-725-3227 for more information.

Affordable Luxury At Your Doorstep

216.245.5922 Jeniecejones1@gmail.com

Book your In-Home Nail Concierge appointment.

Guaranteed to help you look your best this

Holiday Season

Gift Cards Available

This is a natural nail service no acrylics

Ask about my exclusive VIP Referral Program 22

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

(CON TI N UED)

Many people are well aware that our bodies contain bacteria, such as those that aid in digestion. However, it is easy to forgot about the “hygiene hypothesis.” This hypothesis states that a lack of exposure to bacteria in childhood suppresses the development of a healthy immune system, which can lead to health issues and allergies later on.

“Antibacterial agents may seem like a good thing to have on hand, but in excess they are potentially dangerous,” Fitzpatrick points out. “For example, many homes in our county have septic tanks, which rely on bacteria to break down waste.

Effective septic tanks will distribute sewage product into the ground, which fertilizes the soil and eventually filters through the soil and rocks. It ends up back in our aquifers, which provide drinking water. The process is very simple, but it can be complicated through the use of large amounts of antibacterial soaps.”

We have all encountered the scent of fresh manure spread upon a field, and it is easy to focus on the “dirtier” side of agriculture. But, just as waste from septic tanks fertilizes the ground, so does manure.

Natural fertilizer leads to flourishing fields of crops, which photosynthesize carbon dioxide and emit clear oxygen. Farming is important to the maintenance of our fresh, clean air and clear blue skies.

WE NEED TO SHARE THE ROAD.

As the economy changes and suburbia encroaches on farmland, the small family farm out of our childhood fairy tales is no longer economically viable. Many farmers rent lots for planting, which means that equipment must be transported via road.

Farming is an industry that is tied to the land, so a farmer cannot pick up and move their business. As a result, farmers tend to be dedicated members of their community, and are often involved in improvement efforts.

Now is the perfect time to get involved with the agricultural side of our community, as farmers have more time outside of the planting and growing season. getting to know the Medina County Farm Bureau provides a hands-on opportunity to get involved, ask questions, and express concerns. For more information on upcoming events and what you can gain with a membership (and, no, you do not have to be a farmer to join!), visit MedinaFB.org.

Miracle Works Painting LLC

Call Mario At: (440) 903-8746

Residential | Commercial

Interior | Exterior Painting Services

• Locally Owned & Operated

• Serving all of Medina County • All work done by the crew, no sub-contracting

• licensed, Bonded & Insured

10%

DISCOUNT with the mention of this ad

Local. Current. Inviting Sunday Brunch 10am - 2pm

Happy Hour Tues-Sat 4-6 pm Closed Mon, Tues-Thurs 4-9pm, Fri-Sat 4-11pm,

2736 Medina Rd, Medina, Ohio 44256 (330) 952-1122 • 111bistro.com November 2016 | Medina County Lifestyle

23

The Benefit of

CLEAN BEEF ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY NIKKI RHOADES

“I

f you eat better, you feel better,” said Hendrick Leibrandt, owner of Destiny Farm. For the past three years, Destiny Farm has been raising grass-fed, hormone-free cattle.

“There was a higher demand for cleaner, healthier meat. More people were turning to locally grown, local shops, wanting to know where products came from. I had already been exposed to the market—I grew up on a cattle farm raising both the traditional South African beef breed and Angus-Brahman cross.”

At the 40-acre Granger farm, roughly 25 Angus, Hereford, and Baldy cattle are nestled amongst the landscape. Many people are beginning to explore alternative and healthier dietary options, since modern-day health problems are stemming greatly from the foods that we eat. Many consumers are beginning to seek out options to buy “clean” meat.

With any living creature, a healthy diet is an essential part of maintaining overall health. The overall health of our livestock influences the healthiness of the meat produced, and Leibrandt warns that what they consume comes back to us.

“It comes down to one thing: the body needs good cholesterol, which can be found in meat,” he explains.

“Healthy products with good taste are appealing to people. We naturally raise our beef to ensure a healthy product. They are grass fed at 80 percent, and we add a little bit of grain to their diet to flavor the beef and keep it tender.”

Leibrandt explains that while grain is not bad for cattle, it is dangerous in excess. Their bodies are built to

24

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

process only a certain amount of grain. Many cattle farms will feed their livestock an excessive amount of grain to ensure that meat will be marbled with fat, but too much grain becomes damaging to the animals' bodies.

“When they are given a certain amount of grain, they are given antibiotics to protect their gut and to keep them alive. Since their bodies are no longer healthy, their system does not filter out those antibiotics, and we consume them when we consume their meat. With an animal that does not get fed that kind of diet, there is no reason to give it antibiotics.”

Steroids are often given to livestock to increase their size and, in turn, increase profits. But, just like antibiotics, those steroids will stay in their system and will be transferred to humans through the meat they consume.

At Destiny Farm, there is no use of steroids, antibiotics, or genetically modified corn. Soy, which many Americans are allergic to, is avoided. The livestock is actually fed hay that is grown on the farm free of pesticides.

Destiny Farm also takes care to ensure that the cattle consume only clean, fresh water every day. They do not drink standing water, and water storage tanks are cleaned weekly. Destiny Farms sells beef in a variety of quantities, and they include parts that are difficult to find, such as ox tail, heart, tongue, and liver. The liver is edible, Leibrandt explains, because it has not been destroyed by a poor diet.

Beyond healthier meat, Leibrandt points out another very important aspect of grass-fed, naturally-raised beef: the final product is much tastier.

“When you cook with grass-fed beef, you do not have sticky, greasy residue. There is just clean, healthy meat. There is no grease to wash off.

When you cook it, there won't be that film on top of it. Stroganoff, for example, will leave that oil film on that pan. Ask yourself, if it doesn't look yummy, why would you eat it?”

Gift certificates are available for the holiday season. For more information, contact Destiny Farm at dfmedina@outlook.com or call 330.721.7225 or 330.241.7619.

Linda Randall, DVM 7777 Greenwich Rd Westfield Center, OH 44251 (GPS: Lodi, OH) 330-948-2002 cah@cloverleaf.org | cloverleaf.org

Monday 7:30-7 | Tuesday 7:30-5 | Wednesday 8-12 Thursday 7:30-7 | Friday 7:30-5| Saturday/Sunday CLOSED (& all major holidays)

Sometimes our Best friends are our Oldest friends.

• Come see us to help your pet live a longer, healthier life.

• Go to Cloverleaf.org to download a chart on how to calculate dog years vs. human years, or scan the QR code above.

Linda Randall, DVM

November 2016 | Medina County Lifestyle

25

Renovate & Refine

THANKSGIVING TIPS

MEDINA COUNTY EXPERTS OFFER TIPS FOR A FLAWLESS AND STRESSLESS HOLIDAY

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY NIKKI RHOADES

/// TIP #1: RUSTIC CHIC IS IN! Katie Heinz, designer and owner of JK Gifts and Interior Design Studio, is up-to-date on the latest and greatest interior design trends.

This Thanksgiving, consider playing with a rustic chic theme.

Start with an autumnal palette—rusts, oranges, and burgundies can be spiced up with bursts of lime green. Accent these colors with bursts of warm-tone metallics. Combine rich fabrics like velvet with things like burlap to achieve that truly rustic appeal.

“Decorate your table with more natural-type products—pumpkins and gourds are always great. Heirloom gourds are almost ugly, but funky at the same time. I'd incorporate something pretty to contrast, like a floral arrangement. Floral arrangements can be placed inside a pumpkin, or cabbage leaves can be placed around acorns in a glass container. Get creative, and bring in the season.”

Table decorations should be arranged in pairings of odd numbers, and any kind of tablescape should include decorations of different heights. This can be achieved by incorporating cake stands and candlesticks of differing heights.

Entry way decorations are a must, because that is where people enter and form their first opinion. A simple wreath on the front door, or a floral on the entry hall table with more autumn colors would be lovely. They have some cool bittersweet berries that can be added to floral arrangements, or you could go out and cut up branches and spray paint them in golds. Incorporate long stem grasses to your arrangements, which can be set in a simple, clear glass cylinder vase.

“Fireplaces are a good way to bring in the season. Consider changing out a piece of art over a fireplace to be more seasonal in color or theme. Lanterns are always fun to put on a fireplace, and again, try to incorporate different heights. Change out candles to seasonal colors.

Fill glass candleholders with corn or beans as a base. Wording, like the palette signs and art, is really popular right now. Take a piece of old palette wood and paint cute things on it or something of the like.”

The best rule to remember when decorating is this: try to be classy by going with more timeless looks.

26

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

/// RULE #2: KEEP THE FOODS TRADITIONAL. Anthony Scolaro is the chef and co-owner of One Eleven Bistro.

As a seasoned chef, he suggests sticking to traditional courses and adding a twist.

"Thanksgiving is tough to go outside the box, because people want traditional stuff. Putting twists on traditional sides is a safer route to go. This includes stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, soup; stuff like that.

There are things you can do to jazz up traditional dishes. You can do something as simple as adding roasted garlic to the potatoes or leeks to the stuffing. Brussel sprouts are always a good one. I feel like instead of carrots, something green on the table is nice. And brussel sprouts are hearty—bacon and onion are always a classic combination. If you really want to try something new, I like doing risotto at Thanksgiving.

It is the same thing as doing any other starch, but it is more refined and tastes better. It is a different side than most people are used to."

He also suggests cutting a turkey in advance. "The problem with cooking the whole turkey is the breast cooks faster than the thighs, and it always gets dry. If you care about how it tastes, cut it up in advance. Brining is important to keeping it moist and also to imparting flavor. You can infuse whatever you want—herbs, garlic, citrus, any combination that you like. It helps cook the turkey better." ///RULE #3: IT'S ALL ABOUT THE KITCHEN. Katti Meng, Head Interior Designer at Daso, insists that the kitchen is the heart of the home.

"We spend a lot of time there, especially if you love to cook. This is where families congregate. You want to have a quality kitchen that will last a lifetime. A quality kitchen also impacts resale value.

When you go to sell your house, if that is something you are looking to do, your investment in your kitchen could result in a huge return."

If you are hosting the next holiday meal, it is worth considering if your kitchen is up-to-date and timeless. If not, customer designers at Daso Cabinetry are on standby to help you design your dream kitchen that will blow your guests away. For more information, visit DasoCustomCabinetry.com.

Come Here...Get This

Advanced, Effective, & 100% Touchless Care for your family car, luxury ride, or antique classic.

Go There...

#NEVERSCRATCH

Get This

Actual photo of car damaged at local carwash

58 Brookmont Rd. Akron, Ohio 44333 330.665.5389 montroselaserwash.com

Experience the Difference Our experienced sales staff will guide you step by step through your new flooring. cabinet. or granite countertop purchase.

From the moment you walk through the door, our team will meet and exceed your expectations from inspiration to installtion. With so many options under one roof. it has never been easier to complete your project.

FULL SERVICE INSTALLATION KNOWLEDGEABLE + PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATES CONVENIENT SCHEDULING

. .

.

TWO MILLION SQUARE FEET IN STOCK

.

.

carpet tile laminate hardwood cabinets countertops

November 2016 | Medina County Lifestyle

27

Hot Spot

Make Your Day at

Medina Made

N ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY NIKKI RHOADES

early a decade ago, the Director of the Society for Handicapped Citizens (SHC) the Arc of Medina County, Melanie Kasten-Krause, and the Superintendent of the Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities (DD), Annette Davis-Kramp, first dreamed of the opportunity to provide retail employment and vocational training for individuals with disabilities. Though employment opportunities existed across the county, there was never an opportunity for individuals with disabilities to obtain retail experience. That is, until roughly a year ago, when Medina Made opened in December of 2015.

“Medina Made is a true definition of a community partnership,” explains Paula Majoros, Director of Adult Services at the Board of DD. “Community and several agencies are bringing awareness to the importance of providing equal employment opportunities, and our workers have the opportunity to give back by learning work skills that can eventually help them work in and be productive members of community.

Local artists and vendors are provided a storefront presence, which contributes to the local economy and benefits consumers by providing unique one-of-a-kind handmade items. Everybody works together to build up support, and everybody wins.”

Roughly 90 vendors consign their products to the store, and the proceeds benefit the many programs offered through the Society for Handicapped Citizens. Sandi Sammon, Director of Development and Communication for SHC, explains that there is nothing like Medina Made in the county. The storefront employs one full time manager, Rhonda McCall, and relies on a large rotating staff that is trained in-store.

“The County Board of DD rented space in 2015, and there was an opportunity to invoke that vision of that community-driven retail store next door,” says Sammon. “When Medina Made opened, it was able to connect agencies more to their community, and the CONTINUED >

28

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

BE YOUR MOST BEAUTIFUL YOU

Lobster Feast We’ll give you the necessary .. b. tools & the bi n! ki ac cr t You ge

$

15

99

1-1/4 lb. average

Live Maine Lobster uncracked

Available Every Day – COME EARLY

Quan��es are Limited

Also featuring our award-winning Clam Chowder & 1 dozen Fresh Middleneck Clams in our House Savory Broth

2809 PEARL RD. (RT. 42), MEDINA Half way between Medina and Brunswick on Rt. 42

330.725.6288

SALON EVANGELENE SALON • 3 Hairstylist Price Tiers, Based On Experience • Custom Blended Goldwell Hair color, Hi-Lites & Ombre • Customized Dry Haircuts

DAY SPA • Highly-Skilled Spa Experts- Specialist in Field With Decades Of Experience • Therapeutic Massage Therapy- Hot stone, Warm Thai Bamboo & Relaxation Massages •Manicures & Pedicures With Customized Scents

CUSTOMER PERKS • New Client Gift Bags On First Visit • Product Rewards - For Every 12 Purchased, Get 1 Full-Size Free • Customized Aquage Styling Lesson With Each Haircut

WWW.SALONEVANGELENE.COM 4018 SUITE B MEDINA ROAD MEDINA, OHIO 44256 AT THE CORNER OF RT. 18 & FOOTE RD. NEXT TO THIRD FEDERAL BANK 330.725.1234 M- TH 9a - 9p / F 9a - 4p / S 8a - 4p

www.TimberLodgeMedina.com November 2016 | Medina County Lifestyle

29

Hot Spot

(CON TI N U ED)

community has responded with overwhelming positivity. We get a lot of return customers, because people are very excited about what we do.”

Though the customers have the opportunity to shop local, buy unique handmade items, and support a good cause in a single trip, the staff and artists represented in Medina Made also benefit greatly.

“For all vendors that are part of the store, one of the things that we ask is that they provide something that gives back to store,” explains Pam Hunt, Adult Services Manager at the Board. “It's a co-op in nature. Many vendors will offer an opportunity for an individual with disabilities to work with them, assist with mock interviews, offer workshops, or any number of creative ways to get involved and continue to build that partnership.”

Monthly workshops are open to the community at Medina Made's storefront. Though their item pricepoints fall well in the realm of gifting, there is something special about handmaking gifts. This month, customers can attend a Ukrainian egg ornament-making class November 19 at 10:30 a.m., and for a low-cost they can assemble a one-of-a-kind gift.

“There is always something new to see or do here,” says Manager McCall. “The artists are all local, and some are professional artists, and some of our goods are produced by our team here. Everything we do goes toward helping individuals live, learn, earn, and play in their community.

Our staff takes great pride in their work, and they should. We are a lovely little gift shop filled with locally-made goods, and I know you will find the perfect gift this holiday season here. We can't wait to meet you!”

Medina Made is located at 2736 Medina Rd. For more information

MEET JOSH!

J

osh has been actively working at Medina Made for the past year, and he loves him

job. "I've been involved in Medina Made for about a year now. I get to run the register and I get to clean up after the customers. I restock the shelves, plus we stencil and paint pictures for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Those are sold here. I really love working here."

He recommends that customers stop in to peruse the merchandise, adding that everyone will find something that appeals to them. "I like eating the food we sell here. My favorite thing to sell is flavored popcorn. Five Flavor Popcorn Crunch is the best! It tastes like jelly beans. And it is made in the area. I also like taking a look at Frozen pillows and blankets, with Anna, Elsa, and Olaf. We really have some awesome stuff in our store here."

on hours and workshops, visit MedinaMade.org.

Here at Destiny Farm We have naturally raised cattle that live outside on pasture, not in a feedlot, and are grassfed; they are only fed grain as a supplement the last thirty days for finishing. The cattle are not given hormones, antibiotics or steroids; the pastures and hay are free of pesticides, and are naturally fertilized for clean grazing. We proudly produce lean, tender, clean beef, high in omega 3's and low in saturated fat. Our cattle are all beef breeds such as Angus, Hereford, and Angus/Hereford crosses.

We take a lot of pride in producing quality beef. As a third generation cattle farmer, spanning two continents and several decades of animal husbandry, we put our knowledge and passion into healthy cattle, and, ultimately, superior beef. We raise our own hay, most of our grain, and use spring water. Calves are hand picked, and all the cattle are treated with respect and the best care for their well being.

Orders can be placed by phone or email, pick up by appointment only.

3821 Granger Road Medina , Ohio 44256 | (330) 241-7619 or (330) 721-7225 | destinyfarmcattle.com 30

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

Crafting great home entertainment systems since 1995 Smart Homes Smart Living

Home Theaters Distributed Audio HiFi Stereo Home Automation Custom Design

McIntosh Emotiva LG Samsung Control-4 Integra Sony Kimber Denon Martin Logan 17210 Royalton Rd. Great Escapes Plaza Strongsville, OH (440) 878-1622

www.audiovisionscleveland.com

2150 SR 39 NW, DOVER, OH 44622 330-343-6679 | waynedoor.com

HANDCRAFTED WOOD DOORS EXCEPTIONAL WORKMANSHIP — TIMELESS DESIGN

November 2016 | Medina County Lifestyle

31

Lifestyle Calendar

November NOVEMBER 4

NOVEMBER 10 ORMACO ANNUAL DINNER THE MAIN STREET CAFE Join Ohio Regional Music Arts and Cultural Outreach for an evening of wine, music, and celebration at The Main Street Cafe in Medina.

Tickets are available online at ormaco.org for $30.

AUTISM SUMMIT

NOVEMBER 10

AKRON-HILTON FAIRLAWN

MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY/LITTLE THING

The Second Annual Autism Summit will include a conference and

WOLF CREEK ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER

workshops for individuals with autism, caregivers of people with au-

Join Judy Semroc from the Cleveland Museum of Natural History for a

tism, educators, providers, and others who want to learn more about

visual journey through the parts of nature we seldom ever see.

the autism spectrum. Keynote speaker Dr. John Martin, Director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, will speak on

NOVEMBER 12

changes that impact individuals with disabilities.

CRAFT FAIR

NOVEMBER 4 DANCING WITH THE MEDINA STARS 780 E. SMITH RD.

BRUNSWICK UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Sponsored by Brunswick United Methodist Youth, this craft show features a variety of handmade items that are perfect for holiday gifting.

For the third year, Medina stars compete for the coveted Mirror Ball

NOVEMBER 13

Event Trophy in a night full of dancing, humor and talent. Tickets are

LIFE IN THE COUNTRYSIDE

$60 per person and are available by calling the Faith in Action Office

WEYMOUTH PRESERVATION SOCIETY

at 330.952.0342.

Step back in time with the Weymouth Preservation Society! Take a look at antiques from the 19th century and learn about how locals of yore lived.

NOVEMBER 15 YOGA FOR HOMESCHOOLERS WOLF CREEK ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER Ages 8 to 12 are invited to celebrate nature and the seasons through a variety of yoga activities.Free for Medina County Residents, $3 to non-county residents.

NOVEMBER 15 ALPACA FELTED SOAP SEVILLE LIBRARY Robbie Grodin walks you through making soap using alpaca felt.

NOVEMBER 5

There is a $15 supply fee.

HANDMADE HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW

NOVEMBER 19

MEDINA HIGH SCHOOL

DEVIL DASH

The Medina Early Childhood PTA will host their Annual Handmade

BRUNSWICK HIGH SCHOOL

for the Holidays Craft Show featuring only handmade items. Admis-

For the 18th year, the Brunswick High School Key Club presents their

sion is $1 or one non-perishable food item.

annual Devil Dash (formerly Turkey Trot) to raise funds and collect

NOVEMBER 10 FESTIVAL OF TREES WEYMOUTH COUNTRY CLUB

non-perishable, non-expired food donations for the annual Key Club Christmas Crusade.

NOVEMBER 22

The Medina County Women's Endowment Fund celebrates their tenth

ROVING NATURALISTS: NATURE SIGN

annual Festival of Trees. This event features a festive evening featuring

SCHLEMAN NATURE PRESERVE

live and silent auctions of designer-decorated trees, holiday decora-

Follow clues to find your inner naturalist. You will look for and learn

tions, and other gift items. Call 330.472.0458 for ticket information.

about scat, tracks, and other signs of animal activity.

32

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

Routine washing keeps your vehicle from looking like this...

16

YEARS

XP

CE

E

L EDG OW

E

KN

So, how long has it been since your home got a wash?

ERIE

N

Call now for an instant quote:

Roof Cleaning

House Washing

Concrete Clean&Seal

330-892-4082 PerfectPowerWash.com/Clean23

Specializing in Run Flat & Performance Tires

Tires | Alignments | Brakes | Cooling/Heating Systems

$21.95

OIL, LUBE, FILTER

WITH FREE TIRE ROTATION Includes up to 5 QT. Synthetic Blend Chassis Lube. Under Hood maintenance inspection. Disposal Fee Extra. Most Cars & Light Trucks.Expires 11-30-16

15% Off Snow Tire Superstore ANY SERVICE UP TO $100 VALUE Excludes Tires Expires 10-31-16

MON- FRI 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM SAT 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

All Makes & Models, Tire & Wheel Packages Available

1451 MEDINA RD., MEDINA,OH (330) 239-2371 WWW.PARRISH-MCINTYRE.COM November 2016 | Medina County Lifestyle

33

Parting Thoughts

A look at GMOs ARTICLE NIKKI RHOADES

I

n college, I was required to take a colloquial-type class centered on conducting and discussing research. I was assigned to debate on why plastic bags are more environmentally friendly than paper bags, and I protested relentlessly. With a twinkle in her eye, my professor asked, "Have you done your research, or are you believing what you have seen online? Do you know which produces more pollutants? Do you know if paper can be recycled once it is wet?"

According to John Fitzpatrick, Organization Director of the Medina County Farm Bureau, misunderstanding and a lack of research may be to blame for the mixed public opinion regarding genetically modified organisms, or GMOs. Fitzpatrick points out that humans have been modifying foods since the beginning of agriculture.

“Early humans were nomadic, and they followed animals as they migrated through seasonal changes. They would notice that crops that were safe to eat grew in the same place as they did the year before. Humans began to save seeds, and they moved them closer to where they were living. That created farming, and that created sedentary civilization.”

And, yes, early humans were particular about the seeds they kept.

Seeds were harvested from the better tasting foods over less tasty foods, and over time humans began to practice cultivation and cross breeding. This allowed them to create crops that look very different from their ancient ancestors. Corn, he points out, looks very different from its ancestor teosinte, which is in the grass family.

Early humans utilized a process called selective breeding to improve their crops. They would choose crops with the most desirable features to use as a seed source, and over many generations, certain phenotypic traits became more evident. This process also has been applied to animals, and is also to thank for the diversity that exists in today's dog breeds. Essentially, ancient crops with the most desirable features are to thank for the modern-day crops that we know and love.

Deliberate hybridization and understanding of the science behind trait inheritance began in 1854 when Gregor Mendel began experimenting with pea plants. He began to note rules of heredity, also known as Mendelian Inheritance, which provided scientists a basic

34

Medina County Lifestyle | November 2016

understanding of how traits are passed from a parent to its offspring.

His studies have been used to mathematically reinforce natural selection and evolution, and are partially to thank for today's experimentation with the genetics of food.

Today, experts continue to modify food. In 1986, nearly a century and a half after Mendel's experiments, the United States published Coordinated Framework for Regulation of Biotechnology to regulate products produced through genetic modification. It states that genetically modified food must go through years of testing before it can be sold, and the science behind the modifications must be approved as well. These products are analyzed in their potential risks to humans, livestock, and the environment.

“I think people can take a lot of pride at the fact that we have a strong Department of Agriculture that does not allow products to be improved without them approving the science that is being applied to them,” says Fitzpatrick. “GMO crops have been used for over 20 years, and no one has ever gotten sick from a GMO crop.”

This is a statistic that is not supported by public opinion, but is indeed backed up by scholarly research. Thousands of peer-reviewed studies show that there is no evidence that GMOs present any more of a risk than traditionally bred crops.

According to the Library of Congress, 93% of the soybeans, 90% of the cotton, and 90% of the corn grown in the United States were genetically engineered.

The best part of genetic modification, some may argue, is that genetically modified foods can reduce use of pesticide by improving intrinsic pest defense. Foods can also be modified to resist the herbicide glyphosate, which means that fields can be sprayed with herbicides to kill off weeds, and this will not inversely impact crop yield. It is also possible, with the assistance of genetic modification, to create crops that are more resistant to fluctuating weather patterns like drought. Genetically modified crops makes farming a much more profitable venture for agriculturalists, and risks associated with GMOs are considered to be very low, if there are any at all.

Unfortunately, public opinion reflects a low understanding of biotechnology. Sometimes one must step back and ask, "Have I done my research, or am I believing what I have seen online?

Heating - Cooling - Plumbing

100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED • SAME LOW HOURLY RATE 24/7/365 • SERVICE ALL MAKES AND MODELS PLUMBING DIV. $890 NEW HOT WATER TANK (CALL FOR DEATILS) • QUALITY AIR PRODUCTS

Early Bird Equipment Clean & Check

$35 or 10% off

Furnace... $55 ( Reg $90 ) Boiler.... $89 ( Reg $125 )

Heating, Cooling, Or Plumbing

EXPIRES 11/30/16

EXPIRES 11/30/16

Any Service Call

(applied with complete repair)

PLUMBING DRAIN SPECIAL

Financing Save up to $1750 on a new Specials on high efficient New Equipment comfort system

89

$

New High Efficent Furnace Installed $45/Month Or To snake any accessible single drain.

New High Efficient Up to one hour, up to 1000 ft.

System Installed Call for details. $101/Month EXPIRES 11/30/16

EXPIRES 11/30/16

Call For Details On Qualifying Equipment And Rebates.

ESTIMATES ARE FREE! EXPIRES 11/30/16

OFFERS NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. MUST PRESENT COUPON AT TIME OF SERVICE

FINANCING AVAILABLE

For a limited time, Get 0% interest or low interest payments for up to 60 months * Call for details

330.220.8125 | 1.800.728.6291 812 Pearl Road Brunswick, Ohio 44212 kasidonisheatingandcooling.com

Visit Us at Our New Showroom in Strongsville, Ohio...

We are ...The ONE STOP shop.

17200 Pearl Rd. Strongsville, Ohio 44149 Hours: Monday-Friday 10 to 5; Saturday 9 to 1 440-783-9023

196 E. West Salem Rd. Creston, Ohio 44217 Toll Free: 800-380-9186

By Appointment Only

dasocustomcabinetry.com