Finding a home at Taylor means more than access to a stunning new apartment – it means receiving the keys to present and future peace of mind.
Taylor Community is located in the beautiful Lakes Region of New Hampshire with campus locations in both Laconia and Wolfeboro. Whether you prefer an active lifestyle lled with tness classes and an extensive lineup of social and recreational opportunities, or would rather enjoy a ne dining experience with friends after a day spent by the lake... Taylor is the place for you!
Easy, Summertime Outdoor Living
By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper
Summertime…and the living is easy. That phrase could apply to the casual, relaxed feeling of sitting a spell on comfy outdoor furniture, making a tasty meal on a new grill, gathering around an outdoor fire table, or enjoying a handy storage shed for your outdoor gear and small equipment. This summer, the options for outdoor furniture and other items are many.
The most popular choice for long-lasting, durable, and attractive furniture for a deck, patio, or other outdoor area is those
made from poly.
Says Jerry Colpitts of Cozy Cabin Rustics in Plymouth, New Hampshire, “We are selling more and more outdoor (Amish) furniture in poly. We offer a multitude of colors and styles, such as pub tables, Adirondack chairs and rocking chairs, and tables; just all kinds of furniture for outdoor living.” (A popular furniture company is Mill Creek.)
Colpitts goes on to say that unlike more traditional outdoor
furniture, poly-made pieces are highly durable and can be left outdoors. They withstand all kinds of weather, which is great for many people who aren’t always at home or so inclined to cover or move patio furniture indoors when the weather turns rainy…or snowy in the wintertime.
In Laconia, Fireside Living carries seating, fire tables, and grills, among other items that make a deck, patio, or just about any outdoor area of the home a favorite spot. Says Morgan Cusano, manager at Fireside Living, “We carry the Breezesta line, and it offers long-lasting outdoor furniture and fire tables. We are seeing Adirondack chairs and bar-height sets of tables and chairs as very popular. The furniture is made of recycled plastic milk jugs and comes in a variety of colors, although white or black seem to be among the best sellers.”
Cusano says the furniture is durable and can be cleaned with soap and water or a pressure washer. (Also helpful in cleaning the furniture is a simple Magic Eraser.)
Cushions for the Breezesta line are from Sunbrella, well known
for its quality products in a wide variety of styles and colors. Sunbrella cushions are durable, long-lasting, and great for outdoor use.
At Country Cottage Furniture in New Hampton, the choices in outdoor furniture are many, with poly a popular option for those seeking durable and attractive tables, chairs, and other items.
“The poly outdoor furniture in the fan back style is a good seller, and black has been a very popular color whether using it as the whole item color or as an accent color. White still dominates for Adirondack chairs,” explains Trapper of Country Cottage Furniture.
According to www.countrycottagefurniture.com, when it comes to outdoor wood furniture, “We are most proud of our line by Jensen, featuring beautiful Ipe wood from Bolivia. Ipe is naturally rot-resistant and has the nickname of ironwood. With proper care and conditioning, it will last decades, perhaps generations. We have other wood furniture lines suitable for outdoors, at other price points too. Our rustic furniture is made from ce-
INSTALLATION | REMOVAL | REPAIRS
photo courtesy Cozy Cabin Rustics
dar, and weathers beautifully outside. For a country furniture look, unfinished furniture can be painted in weather-resistant paints.”
Among the outdoor items at Country Cottage Furniture, chaise products are attractive and fit into patio or poolside areas. They come in Ipe or pinewood and offer a natural look in a country setting, or anywhere.
ors. You can use the fire tables year -round and they have covers.”
At Cozy Cabin Rustics in Plymouth, Colpitts says, “We are seeing more and more customers wanting poly outdoor furniture. We recently outfitted an outdoor area of a home with rocking chairs and dining furniture.”
Other popular Country Cottage furniture outdoor items include benches and settees, rockers, outdoor chairs and stools, picnic tables, and rocking chairs, among others.
Outdoor fire tables also are popular … year-round. For those who assume fire features are for summertime only, think again. Says Cusano of Fireside Living in Laconia, “Our fire tables are from Breezesta. Customers like matching chairs around a square or round fire table.”
The fire tables are propane-fueled, and Cusano adds, “The tank for the fuel is hidden under the table, to create an attractive look.”
She continues, “The fire feature is made of glass, in either round or shattered style. The shattered glass has the appearance of coal, and the glass comes in a choice of 12 to 13 different col-
Customers at Cozy Cabin Rustics often find the pub-height table sets appealing for a casual outdoor look. People favor poly outdoor pieces because of their durability, minus the worry of wood rotting like traditional furniture. “We feature Amishmade furniture, and they have the best woodworkers and are about all-American, quality-made items,” says Colpitts.
The furniture comes in a variety of colors (about 30) and is also available in custom colors. “There is no doubt that poly furniture will last, and pieces are being made that are bigger and fancier, such as sofas which come in different sizes and styles,” he adds.
Colpitts says that customers find brightly colored poly pieces very appealing and like weathered wood and cedar finishes to mock the look of real wood. Additionally, dark brown or green colors are popular, which makes sense in the often-wooded out-
photo courtesy Cozy Cabin Rustics
Hot Tubs
door home areas in the Lakes Region and northern mountains of New Hampshire.
The poly furniture is sturdy, due to the use of stainless-steel, non-rust screws that are long-lasting.
At Fireside Living, grills are a popular part of their business. “We carry Saber grills,” explains Cusano. Customers, she says, like the three or four-burner grills. They are popular in stainless versus enamel and are all propane-fired.
For outdoor dining, Colpitts of Cozy Cabin Rustics comments, “Dining sets are popular right now. Also, small square tables, Adirondack chairs, and outdoor rockers. Our customers also want counter-height tables, which are small dining tables for the deck. Sofas are popular as well.”
Poly tables will be durable 20 or 30 years from now, which makes them very appealing. With so many people these days living near lakes, poly furnishings are good for outdoor use near the water.
Colpitts says he has kept an eye on poly furniture since it first came out; people find it appealing because it looks like wood and is fun and durable.
“We also offer wood and log outdoor furniture and for a few years now, we have been selling Nordic hot tubs. We will have a large spa department with saunas, plunge tubs, and hot tubs as well. And another offering will be outdoor coverings for hot tubs or gazebos.”
For those who wish to customize furniture to fit a special area or style, Cozy Cabin Rustics can do so. “We work with Amish makers to customize outdoor furniture. We also have local artists who make some furniture,” adds Colpitts.
If a homeowner is not fortunate enough to have a garage for storing outdoor items or if they simply need more storage room, a shed is a great option. At Osborne’s Farm & Garden Centers, with locations in Belmont, Concord, and Hooksett, sheds are of-
fered in a variety of styles and sizes. Says Belmont store manager, Sam Osborne, “The most popular shed currently is a lofted barn or gambrel style.” Osborne’s sells sheds in three sizes: the largest is 10 x 20, the standard size is 10 x 16, and the smaller size is 8 x 12. Another option is creating a customized size and style through the Osborne website. All sheds are made by Old Hickory in Maine and shipped to Osbornes.
The sheds are constructed of pressure-treated wood with a metal or shingled roof standard. Popular colors for the sheds are light or darker gray, although many other colors are offered. The placement of windows is standard, although those who choose to customize a shed can relay where they would like windows placed and the color of the structure.
“We deliver the shed to the customer’s site, and the area should be prepped, giving us a clear, level space to place the shed upon,” says Osborne. He adds that homeowners sometimes use crushed stone on the leveled space for an added attractive look, although it is not a requirement.
“People buy our sheds usually for extra storage of tools, small equipment, and motorcycles,” he adds. “We find the peak season for purchasing a shed to be late spring or in the fall when homeowners are thinking about putting away gardening and outdoor items and tools.”
Perhaps a pretty gazebo is on the list of items for a homeowner looking to upgrade or create more space for sitting and relaxing. Says Duane McCarter, operations manager at Eased Edges in Laconia, “The most popular style for a gazebo is octagon or rectangle. We also can customize the size and trim packages and screens and roofs for a gazebo.”
The gazebos are sturdy and made of pressure-treated wood or vinyl wrap-treated wood from Amish Country in Pennsylvania. McCarter shares that the sizes for gazebos range from 8 x 8 to 12 x 36, with a 10 to 12 ft. octagon a typical size and shape. Gazebos can have benches for seating around the inside of the structure. They also have rolled screens or a screen that opens up one window or an entire wall.
“Gazebos are popular in this area,” explains McCarter. “Developers put them in and also places like Weirs Beach, which has a gazebo. We also offer them to private homeowners.”
Moving outside to barbecue, socialize, or simply relax with a good book, homeowners can choose their favorite styles and materials. From a shed for storage to durable and maintenance-free outdoor chairs, dining sets, and more, to stainless-steel grills, and pretty gazebos, the options for outdoor enjoyment are endless. With three locations in New Hampshire, visit www.osbornesfarm.com for more information.
photo courtesy Osborne’s Farm & Garden Centers
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Elevate The Backyard Experience
Chances are no one wants to replicate the side effects of the global pandemic anytime soon. Despite all of the upheaval it brought to so many people’s lives, there was at least one silver lining to the pandemic: a newfound appreciation for backyards and other outdoor living areas. Back in 2021, OnePoll, on behalf of the landscaping company TruGreen, found survey participants reported spending 14 hours outside every week, which marked a three-hour increase than before the pandemic hit.
Outdoor spaces like patios, decks, yards, and even front porches remain popular places for homeowners and their loved ones to congregate. Various studies have shown that those who spend more time outside in nature have lower levels of stress, anxiety and depression. Being outside is strongly associated with improved mental and physical health. Homeowners who want to maximize the potential of their outdoor spaces can look to these ideas to take backyards up a notch or two.
Establish a gathering spot
A well-designed yard has one or more dedicated gathering spots, particularly areas that enable comfort underfoot. Homeowners can give consideration to hardscape that enables individuals to spend time outdoors without standing in soggy or buggy situations. Whether they’re traditional decks, platform decks, concrete or paver patios, or areas separated from the lawn with pea gravel or another type of rock, homeowners can make the yard more useable through these spaces.
Invest in an outdoor cooking area
Grilling, smoking and even making brick oven pizzas outdoors is a major component of backyard entertaining. Outdoor kitchens can increase the convenience of prepping, cooking and serving food outdoors. Grills and other cooking gear can be built into weather-resistant counters and cabinetry.
Install a pergola
A pergola or another structure is the perfect way to add privacy to a gathering spot and create more shade and weather protection when Mother Nature does not want to cooperate.
Think beyond the summer season
When making backyard improvements, homeowners can incorporate ideas that make the yard more functional during different seasons. For example, a fire pit or outdoor fireplace can be a spot for making summer s’mores or sipping mulled cider in the fall. An enclosed three-season room offers the opportunity to see nature and enjoy it without bearing the full brunt of chilly temperatures.
There are many ways homeowners can enhance the functionality and appeal of their backyards. ~ Metro
Outdoor Activities Ideal For Summertime
George Gershwin’s song “Summertime,” from “Porgy and Bess,” offers: Summertime and the livin’ is easy
Fish are jumpin’ and the cotton is high
Summer can be a magical season full of fresh air, warm days and nights, blooming flowers, and plenty of opportunities to spend time in the great outdoors. There are so many ways to fill summer days, and people are urged to maximize time spent outdoors during this time of year. Since the sun’s rays can be particularly harmful between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., protective clothing and sunscreen is recommended during this time; otherwise, people can engage in outdoor activities during times when the sun is less potent.
Those seeking some summertime recreation inspiration can consider these activities.
• Family bike ride: Explore trails or bike paths in the area in advance, and then prepare bikes for an excursion. Bicycle riding is a great cardiovascular activity that people of all ages and fitness levels can enjoy. Try flat paths for beginners, and then build up the length and intensity of rides as experience is gained.
• Day at the beach: Some attest there is no more perfect place than the beach on a summer day. The waves lapping the sand, the birds calling in the air, and the sounds of children’s laughter and sunbathers’ chatter all combine to create a relaxing seaside symphony. According to WebMD, the negative ions given off by the ocean can improve mood and add to the calming effect the beach provides.
• Backyard obstacle course: Construct an obstacle course in the backyard that everyone can try. It can include having to jump through tires; climb a jungle gym; run through a sprinkler; and crawl under a low-hung clothesline. Family members can compete to see who can finish the course in the least amount of time.
• Hike: In a survey of Americans 18 and older conducted by the National Recreation and Park Association, nearly 50 percent said going for a walk or hike was their favorite outdoor summer activity. Hiking requires very little to get started and can produce numerous opportunities to witness nature and get some exercise. There’s no limit to the ways people can enjoy the great outdoors when the weather warms up. ~ Metro
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Hoophouses For Raised Bed Vegetable Gardens
By Rosalie Triolo
Most of Carroll County resides in a 5a Hardiness Planting Zone, while 30 miles west in Belknap County, is a 5b Hardiness Planting Zone. What is the significance of being in either zone?
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture website, planthardiness.ars.usda.gov, “the Plant Hardiness Zone Map is the standard by which gardeners and growers can determine which perennial plants are most likely to thrive at a location.” Easily translated into layman terms, it means that to get a jump start on your vegetable gardens to produce a successful crop, a raised bed garden, under the protection of a hoop house is ideal.
According to the revered Rodale Institute (rodaleinstitite.org), a hoop house “(is) a type of passive solar greenhouse in which crops grow directly in the soil but are sheltered by the structure.” Regular monitoring of the temperature and humidity levels inside the structure is necessary to make sure conditions remain beneficial to the plants. Opening doors and using roof vents enhance air circulation and prevent overheating. When the nights grow colder, the hoop house helps maintain a stable temperature and prevents extreme fluctuations. Use of a supplemental heat may be necessary.
It is also wise to consider the accessibility of the hoop house, and the direction of prevailing winds in your area, as “too much wind can be destructive.” To prevent waterlogging and excessive moisture around the plants, choose a spot with sufficient drainage for your raised beds. Again referring to the esteemed Institute, “The ideal site is relatively level ground…access to an all-season water source is critical…. orient the structure for optimal sun exposure …and position your hoop house for the best ventilation and protection from weather damage.”
Beets, carrots, and scallions can be direct-seeded or trans-
planted in hoop house beds and thrive in the 5a Hardiness Zone. The edible roots of greens and turnips do well in a hoop house atmosphere. Similarly, in the 5b Hardiness Zone, lettuce, radishes, kale, swiss chard, turnips, brussel sprouts, arugula, melons, and winter squash perform well. Although most garden vegetables can be grown in a raised bed hoop house environment, vegetables such as tomatoes and beans govern support trellises which can be easily installed.
Spearheaded by the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension and Sandy Licata, a special education paraprofessional, The Hoop House Project was an agricultural program added to the curriculum of the town of Tilton’s Winnisquam Middle School. Sandy, an alumna of the UNH Master Gardener Program, combined with the expertise of Jonathan Ebba, began with weekend greenhouse construction workshops. It was a community effort with school faculty and auxiliary staff contributing to building the structure. The goal of the project was to create a productive growing space
within a hoop house environment. Students, volunteers, and staff members constructed the raised beds using power saws and drills.
A unique hands-on learning experience, the Project motivated students to learn more about science, industry, engineering, and manufacturing while gifting them the knowledge of sustainable growing practices. “High tunnels” as they at times are referred to, also help prevent disease and pest infestations, and enhance the quality and yield of crops. Since it’s initiation four years ago, several area schools including Belmont, Franklin, Gilford, Interlakes, Laconia, and Merrimack have joined the program. Even more promising, it is likely those same students will extend their education into the agricultural program at the high school level.
According to Jonathan Ebba, a UNH Extension Specialist in greenhouse production, controlled environment agriculture and horticulture, “The project was a threefold accomplishment.” By providing the school with their greenhouse, it too offered members of the community the
knowledge to construct and cover their own greenhouses, curating an awareness of the middle school’s project needs through the cooperative extension.”
You Tube’s The Gardener Scott Channel, home to “everything gardening”, shares an in-depth explanation and demonstration of how to make a hoop structure for raised bed vegetable gardens. Using four different materials, he exhibits each material, explains their differences, and informs the viewer of the proper use for each type of hoop. Low growing plants such as strawberries would benefit from lightweight half-inch Black Poly. A more substantial material, the PVC half-inch pipe, supports shade cloths. Taller plants needing a higher arch such as tomatoes and beans, require a three-quarter inch, PVC 40, ten-foot-long pipe. Three-quarter inch Metal Conduit steel pipes are best for high hoops and require a tool called the Jig.
soil, employing the wrong materials to construct the beds, failure to mulch and weed, premature soil death, poor irrigation, and the use of accessories such as netting.
In another high -profile tutorial, Gardener Scott discusses the “Ten Common Mistakes Made in Building a Hoop House.” Ranked in the top three respectively are: building the wrong size bed, placing a raised bed in the wrong location, and insufficient spacing between plants. Other errors revealed using lackluster
Gardener Scott, who happens to live in a 5a Hardiness Plant Zone, has many YouTube Videos on all matters concerning Hoop House Raised Bed Vegetable Gardens. Still, it is important to remember the basics: A 4-foot-wide bed is enough to reach from one side to the other. Plants need sun and water. Space plants approximately 2 feet apart. Organic soil should be used. Use materials you don’t have to replace. In cold weather, wooden beds are best, and in an area that is moist and humid, galvanized beds should be used. Mulch at every opportunity. Continue to keep raised bed soil alive by adding organic soil and amendments. Do not use overhead irrigation. Drag a hose to water plants. Use mulch, pine needles or woodchips, gravel, or bricks as pathways between the beds. Take plastic off in summer and use netting. Hoops and raised beds go together. And of course, have fun!
LAKES REGION REAL ESTATE LEADERS
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Go Green, Mow Clean:
By Mark Okrant
You’ve finished planting and fertilizing the lawn and accom-
maintain the look that fills you and your family members with pride. If you’re like thousands of others, you are shopping for lightweight tools that offer maneuverability, variability, and ease of storage, all at the lowest possible cost.
Prior to the early 1960s, most of us made a choice between manual, gasoline-driven, and electric (i.e., plug-in) alternatives. With the introduction of the cordless hand drill in 1961, all that began to change. Compared with gasoline and corded electric alternatives, battery powered garden tools now give us the best of both worlds: we have the same freedom as the former but with the same low maintenance and ease of use as the latter.
The reason why so many of us prefer battery-powered tools is obvious: increased mobility. There’s no need to run to the garage for a refill of gas, and no concern about running over an electric wire that always seems to be in the way. Equally as important, parts on battery-powered tools, especially the batteries themselves, are remarkably interchangeable. And for the obvious, these tools are far easier to store. According to concreteopenings.com, tools that operate on 20-volt batteries are amazingly light, while the 40-volt batteries add considerable weight to the tools.
The power and runtime of cordless power tools is increasing year by year. So, why use tools that require higher voltage batteries—what is the difference between 20v (or similar size) and 40v garden tools (or similar size)? Batteries with higher voltages work with more powerful tools and supply energy for higher-torque applications. Either way, say goodbye to running out of juice when landscaping your yard. Battery selection is
Choosing an outdoor power equipment system can be confusing. Referencing the website Tooled-up.com is a list of some of the best outdoor power tool systems:
• Makita 36V System
• Ryobi One+ System
• Worx Outdoor Power Equipment
• Ego Systems
• Greenworks Outdoor Power Tools
• Stihl Lightning System
• Milwaukee M18 Fuel System
• Husqvarna Battery Powered Tools
In all likelihood, your choice of a battery-powered tool system will begin with a lawn mower. Cordless and environmentally friendly, a battery-powered lawn mower is generally easier to maintain and operate than a gas-powered model, and is especially suited for small to medium-sized lawns.
Spruce.com researched and tested a variety of lawn mowers for more than six months, including push, riding, and self-propelled options. To qualify on their list of the best battery-powered lawn mowers, they evaluated products based on performance/usability, safety, battery life, cutting options, charging
time, cutting width, and value. Among the brands that achieved the highest marks were Ryobi, EGO, Greenworks, Echo, and Toro. Before investing in what can range from $300 to $4500, readers are strongly advised to observe the user reviews of specific models of these and other brands.
Most owners regard their mowers as more than a grass cutting device. Rather, it is a form of weekly exercise undertaken while cutting grass and picking up leaves and other encroaching plant life. Therefore, by carefully selecting a mower that fits both the property and the person, the machine will pay for itself rather quickly. Today’s battery-powered mowers use batteries that can provide an hour or more of runtime on a full charge.
An electric mower can range from a small device that is little more than a blade, motor, deck, and wheels, to a sophisticated machine that propels itself over the lawn’s surface. The greater the size, power, and features, the more expensive the mower. To better understand these features, I consulted with condominium resident, qualifying perfectionist, and neighbor, Bill O’Meara.
“When I was looking for a mower, my first consideration was deck-width. This determines how wide a swath it cuts as it passes over the grass. The wider the deck, the fewer passes I have to make to cut my grass.” He also shared that battery-powered mowers are available from 14 to 30 inches wide.”
The next thing Bill considered were the three mowing functions: mulching, bagging, or discharging grass clippings from the side. Further study shared that most mowers mulch and bag, but only a few will do all three. With mulching, the mower cuts the grass into particles that swirl around inside the deck and are recut into increasingly smaller particles. By redistributing those particles back over the lawn, the soil is fertilized. Side-discharge mowers have a port and chute on the side of the deck which extricate grass clippings as one mows. Still, the majority of mowers come with a grass bag to collect grass clippings, ensuring the lawn has the cleanest finished appearance.
One other feature that Bill considered before making the purchase of his Greenworks lawn mower was deck height. Dissatisfied with the short length of grass left behind by landscapers, he wanted a mower that allowed him to adjust his mower to ever-changing climate throughout the year.
Of course, the most basic consideration one must make is deciding on a self-propelled or push mower. Push mowers are lightweight and mechanically simple, therefore less expensive. Other considerations are ground speed control and handle length. By carefully studying all of these features prior to purchasing a lawn mower ensures a more enjoyable experience for years to come.
Healthy Exposure To The Sun
Spring and summer are times of the year when the great outdoor beckons more strongly than it does in fall and winter. Temperate climates and abundant sunshine encourage people to leave their homes and bask in the warm rays of the sun.
Spending time outdoors is good for mental health and it’s a natural way for people to get adequate vitamin D, also known as the sunshine vitamin. The National Institutes of Health say exposure to sunshine for five to 30 minutes a day, most days a week is optimal to make vitamin D. A large percentage of the population is deficient in vitamin D. The NIH says there are many studies correlating vitamin D insufficiency with increased risk of numerous chronic conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, myocardial infarctions, and brittle bones. However, sun exposure to make vitamin D needs to occur without sunscreen for maximum impact. That begs the question of just how safe it may be to spend time outdoors without sun protection, and what are the risks of doing so? Also, do the risks of vitamin D deficiency outrank those involving sun exposure and cancer causation? It’s a conundrum, to be sure.
so outside of this time period.
• Promptly apply sunscreen. After a short period of unprotected sunshine of no more than 30 minutes, put on sunblock right away. Also, reapply as indicated on the packaging depending on activity. Harvard Health says that sunscreen cannot block all UV rays, and even usage of sunblock will not staunch all vitamin D production.
• The National Cancer Institute suggests using an SPF of at least 15, but some doctors recommend SPF 30.
• Ultraviolet radiation is the number one cause of skin cancer. Utilize wide-brimmed hats, sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent cumulative sun exposure, which can lead to basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers.
• Keep in mind that episodes of severe sunburns, usually before age 18, can raise the risk of developing melanoma. Children should be just as mindful of sun exposure as adults.
The good news is that most people can safely enjoy the sun and obtain vitamin D. Here are some tips and safety precautions.
• Keep in mind that the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. Therefore, if you must spend time in the sun, do
• It is challenging to define what “too much sun” actually is, says the European Code Against Cancer. Strength of the sun (UV index), skin type and the strength of sunscreen all merit consideration A person with very fair skin exposed to an ultraviolet index of 6, which is easily reached at noon in summer, can suffer sunburn in as little as 10 to 15 minutes.
It’s a fine line to balance healthy sun exposure to obtain vitamin D and avoiding sun damage to the skin. But it’s best that people walk that tightrope with sun safety in mind. ~ Metro
Amish handcra ed furniture
Summertime Recipes: A Twist On Some Favorites
By Kelly Ross
Happy Summertime Lakes Region! I want to share some fun recipes that are all about home. I love sharing recipes that are simple twists on popular favorites: a great summer salad, upscale twists on grilled cheese sandwiches, recipes off the grill, a comfort food dinner on a rainy summer night, and an incredible fruit/berry pie, but to start with, a yummy breakfast muffin.
Starting with a yummy breakfast muffin that will tickle your tastebuds, this recipe combines the classic flavors of lemon and raspberries with an awesome streusel topping. Plan on a combined prep/cook time of 35-40 minutes and this will get you a dozen scrumptious breakfast treats.
Lemon Raspberry Muffins
For The Muffins
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¼ cup unsalted butter, softened ¾ cup sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 lemon, zested and juiced ½ cup milk
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1½ cups raspberries
For The Topping
½ cup packed brown sugar
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp grated lemon zest
For the muffin: cream the butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add egg, vanilla, and the zest and juice from your lemon. Mix well. Beat in milk. In a second bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in the raspberries in with a rubber spatula. Pour the batter into a prepared muffin tin, sprayed with pan spray or with paper muffin linings, filling each well muffin cup ¾ full. For the topping: in a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and additional lemon zest. Cut in butter with a fork, pastry cutter, or your electric mixer, until crumbly. Spoon streusel on top of the batter for each muffin. Bake 25 minutes in a 375-degree preheated oven, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle of a muffin comes out clean. Good Stuff!
Next up, this berry-filled beauty is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures and is guaranteed to be a winner with virtually any crowd. Featuring mixed greens of your choice, this is incredibly healthy and works well as a side salad, a lunch salad, or as a dinner depending on your crowd. The medley of fresh berries, veggies, nuts, and feta cheese, combined with a delightful homemade dressing is a perfect match. This is good for 2-4 salads and can easily be assembled in just 15 minutes.
Summer Berry Salad
8 cups of mixed greens, such as spinach, arugula, and kale
2 ½ - 3 cups of berries (diced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are suggested)
1 cup of cucumber, thinly sliced or diced
½ cup of red onion, very thinly sliced or small diced
1 cup of walnuts or pecans, chopped
½ - ¾ cup of crumbled feta cheese
4 tbsp of olive oil
2 tbsp of apple cider vinegar (double for tartness)
4 tsp of honey
2 tbsp of water
Salt and pepper to taste
Wash and gently pat dry your lettuce of choice. Set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Set aside or place in the fridge. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, mixed berries, cucumber, and red onion. When ready to serve, lightly drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to lightly coat all the ingredients evenly. Put onto individual plates or bowls. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts and feta cheese on top. If you prefer diced or larger chunks of cheese, start with a block of feta and cut it into cubes. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving for a refreshing touch. I prefer an extra turn or two of fresh cracked black pepper and a dash of salt right before serving for enhanced flavor overall. This is an easy salad to fall in love with.
Arguably the most popular sandwich in this part of the world is the basic grilled cheese sandwich. As much as I have always enjoyed a great grilled cheese, I have a couple of awesome options that scream upscale, each of which include some fruit or berries and many delicious flavors. Like most any grilled cheese, these go together in 10-15 minutes. Both recipes are for two sandwiches, so double or triple things up as needed.
Grilled Cheese with Mascarpone, Strawberries, and Balsamic
4 slices of thick quality crusty white bread or your bread of
choice, the sturdier the better
4 tbsp butter, melted
¾ cup mascarpone cheese, room temp
3 tsp white sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup strawberries, sliced
4 tbsp balsamic glaze
Black pepper
Combine mascarpone cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Mix well until combined. Distribute the mascarpone mix on one side of each of the bread slices. Evenly divide the sliced strawberries on top. Carefully close the sandwich and brush melted butter on top of each sandwich. Heat pan on medium heat for a few minutes. Place the sandwich butter side down in the pan. Cook for 2-4 minutes being careful not to burn. Brush the butter over the top slices of the bread. Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other buttered side for another 2-4 minutes, or until golden and crisped to your liking. Once cooked, drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with black pepper. These are so good, but I suggest having napkins on hand as they can be a little messy, but in such a good way.
Bacon, Pear, and Fig Grilled Cheese
2 tbsp mayo
4 large slices sourdough bread or bread of choice
4 oz white sharp cheddar cheese ,thinly sliced into 4-8 slices or shredded
4 strips cooked bacon
1 pear, thinly sliced
2 tbsp fig jam or thinly sliced dried figs
I was taught to make this sandwich with mayo instead of
melted butter for the grilled sides of the bread, which does add some good flavor, but sub butter if preferred. Slather one side of each piece of bread with mayonnaise. Set plain side up, slathered side down. Assemble sandwiches with a piece of cheese, a dollop of jam, pear slices, and another piece of cheese and top piece of bread, mayo side facing out. The cheese slices should be touching the bread on both sides. Heat a griddle or skillet to medium heat and add the sandwiches, pressing down to get maximum surface space in contact with the pan and cheese to melt and stick. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until bread it lightly browned. Flip and repeat on the other side. Remove to a cutting board. Cut in half with one smooth motion. Very good sammich.
While pizza is one of America’s favorite foods, making it on the grill gives the crust a similar crispness and smokiness that you get when ordering a pie at a wood fired pizzeria. The crust gets somewhat charred, and the overall flavor is great. The first time or two can be a little tricky, but it really is easy to prepare. Prep the dough, set it on a sheet of aluminum foil, then place on the grill. While on the foil, it is cooked over a high heat. Once off the grill, flip the dough as you top the cooked side with your toppings. Then return to the grill over an indirect heat to finish the process. With practice, you will eventually dispense with the foil. The dough can be tricky to get on the grill and flip, which is why I suggest the foil, or even an upside-down cookie sheet. This recipe includes a recipe to make your own dough, or you may purchase a dough ball at your local supermarket (same for the pizza sauce). I suggest fewer toppings because the heavier the product, the longer cooking time, which could result in burning the crust. If you are new to cooking dough on the grill,
I suggest forming it into a rectangle. Each pie will yield 6-8 pieces. Prep time is 15-30 minutes depending on if you are making your own dough or not. If homemade, you will need time for the dough to rise, 1 ½ -2 hours. Cooking time is 10-15 minutes.
Grilled Arugula Prosciutto Pizza
For The Dough, Makes 2
1 packet active dry yeast, ¼ oz
2 tsp granulated sugar
1 ½ cups warm water, 90-100 degrees
4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for the surface
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
2 ¼ tsp kosher salt
For The Pizza (makes one)
2 cups arugula
¼ cups shaved parmesan cheese
¼ cups thinly sliced red onion
2 tsp lemon juice
¼ tsp kosher salt
4 tbsp olive oil, divided
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
6-8 slices prosciutto, halved cross-wise
For the pizza dough, sprinkle the yeast and sugar over the warm water in the bowl of a stand mixer. Whisk to combine, then let sit until bubbles have formed on the top, about 5 minutes. Add the flour, 1 tbsp of olive oil, and salt. Mix on low speed using a dough hook until the dough comes together, about 2 minutes. Scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl. Increase speed to medium-low. Mix until everything is well incor-
porated, and the dough is sticky, 3-4 minutes more. Drizzle the top of the dough and down the sides of the bowl with 1 tbsp of olive oil. Use a rubber spatula to flip the dough to coat it in oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let it rise for 90 minutes. Then, on a lightly floured work surface, cut the dough in half and form into tight rounds. To form a round, gently flatten one piece of dough into a circle. Fold all the edges into the center. Flip it over and gently pull the round against the counter to form a tight ball. Set aside on a lightly floured sheet tray. Repeat with the second dough ball. Cover the dough with plastic wrap. If you’re not ready to make pizza, place the rounds on a lightly floured baking sheet with enough space for them to rise and expand. Cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the covered dough balls for up to 3 days if preferred. Remove the dough
from the refrigerator. Allow it to sit at room temperature for up to to one hour. Preheat a grill to high heat. Place a piece of 14inch piece foil on top of an upside-down half-sheet pan. Lightly rub the foil with 1 tbsp of olive oil. On a well-floured surface, press 1 piece of dough into an 8-inch round with a 1-inch outer lip. Carefully lift the dough with your hands, cupping the lip to keep it from flattening. Working quickly, rotate the edge of the dough through your hands in a clockwise motion. Allow gravity to stretch the dough into an oval shape. Place the dough back onto the floured surface. Stretch into an rectangle, about 10 inches wide and 14 inches long. Transfer to the prepared foil keeping the original bottom side of the dough on the bottom. Brush the outer lip with the remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Using the upside-down baking sheet as a pizza peel, transfer the pizza, with the foil, to the preheated grill, over direct heat. Cover and bake for 4-5 minutes, until the bottom starts to brown and the edge of the crust is puffed. Using a spatula, lift one edge of the pizza from the foil while you use tongs to pull the foil out from under the pizza. Flip the crust and cook over the coals or flame, about 2 minutes more until the top is browned. Flip the pizza and transfer to a cooling rack. For the pizza: in a medium bowl, combine the arugula, parmesan, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and 1 tbsp of olive oil. Mix gently to combine. Drizzle the remaining 2 tbsp of olive oil over the crust. Sprinkle with the garlic, then mozzarella. Return the pizza to the grill over indirect heat, the side with no flame. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Remove from the grill and top with the arugula mixture. Drape the pieces of prosciutto evenly over the pizza and slice into pieces. Dig into some upscale pizza fun!
For The Caprese Pizza w/ Burrata (toppings for 1 pizza)
1 ½ cups chopped tomatoes
1 small clove garlic, finely chopped
½ tsp flaky sea salt, plus more to garnish
1 tbsp chopped fresh basil, plus more leaves to garnish
1 tbsp olive oil, plus more to garnish
1/2 cup homemade pizza sauce or jarred marinara sauce
1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
4 oz piece burrata cheese
For the dough (use recipe above). For the pizza: combine the tomatoes, garlic, salt, basil, and olive oil in a medium bowl. Spread the pizza sauce on the grilled crust and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Return the pizza to the grill, once again, over indirect heat. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Remove from the grill and top with the tomato mixture. Cut the piece of burrata into 8 pieces and space them evenly over the pizza. Drizzle with more olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and basil leaves if you prefer.
Kabobs and food skewers are always a winner, but there is nothing like bacon to elevate things. With this game changer, the concept is a chicken teriyaki skewer with a homemade sauce, wrapped in bacon before grilling. These work as an app, main course, or awesome even over a salad. It’s simply done by wrapping chicken pieces with bacon, skewering them with fresh pineapple chunks, and marinating with the teriyaki. Once the skewers are made, marinate and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. Grill time is quick. I love prepping things in advance so came gametime, cook time is a quickie. Sounds tedious but so worth it!
Bacon Wrapped Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
3 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs
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trimmed
2 package regular bacon, not thick sliced, 16 0z
2 fresh pineapples, cleaned and cut into chunks, or 2 cans pineapple chunks, 16 oz each
For The Teriyaki
1 cup soy sauce, low sodium if possible
1 cup sugar
½ cup apple cider vinegar
2 clove garlic pressed or very finely minced
1 tsp ground ginger or ½ tbsp fresh grated
6-8 or more cracks freshly ground pepper
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp cold water
(add additional cornstarch and water for thicker sauce)
For the sauce, in a medium saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. While sauce is heating, combine cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. When sauce comes to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer and add cornstarch mixture. Stir until sauce is thickened and bubbly, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat until needed, or store in the fridge in an air-tight container for up to 2 weeks (I reserve ½ cup or more of the sauce and refrigerate until ready to use for basting the skewers on the grill). Remove the bacon from the package. While it’s still all stuck together, stretch it out a little. Cut the bacon strips into thirds. Place in a large pie plate or 9x13” baking dish. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can gauge how many pieces
you’ll need by how many pieces of cut bacon you have and then aim to cut about that many pieces of chicken. Wrap the chicken pieces with the bacon, skewer with pineapple chunks. Place in a long baking dish and cover in teriyaki sauce. Rotate the skewers to completely coat them. Refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight, rotating a few times. Once ready to cook, preheat grill to medium-high and spray well with pan release spray. When hot,
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place skewers on grill, and baste with reserved teriyaki sauce. Cook for about 5-7 minutes and roll the skewers over. Repeat the process once more. They have such a great combo of flavors!
Now, some may consider this one comfort food, but it’s a great family meal that easily feeds six, is easy and relatively inexpensive to make. This pasta casserole dish with ground beef is combined with French onion and melted cheese. You can make this in 40 minutes or so and it only goes in the oven for a few minutes.
French Onion Beef and Pasta
1 ¼ lbs. ground beef
8 oz pasta, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 ¼ cups beef broth
1+ cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and transfer the cooked beef to a plate. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until caramelized and golden brown. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the caramelized onions and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle the
flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the beef and onion mixture. Preheat oven broiler. Transfer the beef and pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyere cheese and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Place the baking dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the baking dish from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
When I hear homemade fruit pies, I instantly think of my awesome Grammy who was always baking the yummiest fruit and berry desserts. This one brings me right back to my childhood. This fruit and berry combo pie will wow any crowd, whether served hot or cold. This is the best time of year to utilize fruits and berries, and combined with a delicious lemon sour cream topping, I feel confident this will create many smiles from your family and friends when you serve it. This recipe is for a single pie, it will take you 15-20 minutes to put together and cooking time is 50 minutes or so. Although this recipe includes apples, peaches, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, you can always substitute any of your favorite fruits and berries.
Ultimate Summer Pie
Pie Filling: 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust, store-bought or homemade
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored, and cut into ½ inch thick slices
1 ½ cups peeled and sliced peaches, about 7 ½ oz
1 cup cleaned and halved strawberries, about 6 oz
½ cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp light brown sugar
¼ tsp kosher salt
1 cup blackberries
1 cup blueberries
½ cup raspberries
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp lemon zest
Pie Topping:
½ cup sour cream
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ tsp kosher salt
1 tsp lemon zest
2/3 cup granulated sugar, plus more for sprinkling
Adjust the oven rack to the lowest setting and preheat the oven to 350 degrees. If buying a store-bought flat pie crust dough, press into a 9-inch ungreased pie dish. If you bought a premade crust in a tin, pull to room temp. Set the crust aside. For the lemon slurry, in a small bowl or glass measuring cup, stir together the cornstarch and lemon juice to form a slurry and set aside. For the pie filling, melt the butter in a large saucepan, or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the apples, peaches, straw -
berries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and kosher salt to the melted butter and cook, stirring frequently, until syrupy, about 3 minutes. Add the rest of the berries and flour. Stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the mixture has thickened. Pour in the lemon juice slurry and stir to combine. Increase the heat to medium-high and continue to cook, stirring constantly for up to 1 minute, until thickened and until the spoon leaves a trail on the bottom of the pan. The fruit will finish cooking as it bakes. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest. Carefully spoon the fruit filling into the prepared pie dish. Set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the topping. To do so, stir together sour cream, flour, salt, lemon zest, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl until smooth. Spoon evenly onto the pie filling, leaving a small border of fruit filling exposed around the edges. Sprinkle the top with additional sugar, about 1 tbsp. Place the pie dish on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake on bottom rack of the oven for 45-50 minutes, until the fruit filling is bubbling, the topping is firm to the touch and beginning to lightly brown. Allow to cool completely before slicing and serving. Pie may be served chilled, at room temp, or microwave pieces and served with vanilla ice cream.
I wish you all an incredible summer! Enjoy as much fun and sun as possible, and always remember to keep your taste buds happy! Should you have any questions or feedback, please reach out at fenwaysox10@gmail.com
Tips To Clean Your Grill
Millions of people across the globe have a passion for grilling. Cooking over an open flame imparts a unique flavor to a variety of foods, and that profile can be augmented with marinades, wood chips and a host of other tweaks that help to create a delicious finished product.
Though many people grill throughout the year, this particular method of cooking is most popular in summer, when welcoming temperatures compel cooks to prepare meals outdoors. As grilling season kicks into high gear, grillmasters can embrace these strategies to ensure their grills remain clean.
• Clean after each use. Once food is cooked, cooks’ minds immediately shift to eating. But cleaning a grill immediately after each use can make it easier to remove all the debris that can gather as foods cook. Fat, grease, melted cheese, marinades, and other substances can accumulate on the grill over time. Though grillmasters can eat before cleaning their grills, keep the fire going until after eating (vents can be slightly closed to reduce the heat somewhat), then scrape food and other debris off the grill. Grates that are still warm are easier to clean, but use heat-proof grilling gloves when cleaning warm or hot grates to reduce burn risk.
• Oil the grates before cooking. A light coating of oil brushed onto the grill grates prior to cooking can reduce the likelihood that food sticks to the grill while it’s being cooked. Food stuck to a grill can be difficult to remove, but the oil can reduce the likelihood that ground beef from burgers or chicken breasts will stick to the cooking surface.
• Deep clean the grill every so often. Grill grates may not need
a deep clean after each use, particularly when only preparing food for a handful of people. However, a deep cleaning every so often, and after heavy usage during backyard barbecues, can remove debris that can accumulate and pose a health risk over time. Follow the grill manufacturer’s instructions regarding cleaning the grill. Some might suggest traditional dish soap like Palmolive is safe to use, while others might recommend particular soaps that can protect the long-term life of the grill. Cast-iron grill grates generally should not air dry, so dry these parts off immediately after cleaning.
• Use the right tools. Steel grill brushes are popular, but these cleaning tools can be unsafe. Steel brush bristles can break off during vigorous cleaning sessions, and they may get stuck on the grill during the cleaning process. If stuck on the grill, steel bristles can easily attach to food. The cooking experts at Epicurious note that steel brush bristles can cause throat and/or abdominal issues if consumed. Alternatives to steel bristle grill brushes are widely available, but grillmasters should know that some, including nylon brushes, should not be applied to a grill until its grates have cooled off.
• Clean all components. Grease traps, ash pans and the interior of the grill, including its sides and the inside of lids, can be periodically cleaned to reduce grease buildup and the risk of exposure to germs.
Grilling is a wildly popular summer pastime. Ensuring grills are clean prior to cooking can make foods more flavorful and decrease the risk of illness. ~ Metro
Pinch Pleat
Use Of Outdoor Lighting And Sound Transforms The Yard Use Of Outdoor Lighting And Sound Transforms The Yard
By Thomas P. Caldwell
Having a well-landscaped yard enhances home ownership in the Lakes Region, and beyond the walkways, gardens, and patios, outdoor lighting and audio systems can make parties and other gatherings that much more enjoyable.
Lighting can accentuate the home’s architectural elegance, bring out the beauty of the flowers and plants, and make the yard safer, whether for a quiet lakeside evening or for nighttime gatherings.
Lanterns and tiki torches can provide a more traditional appearance, but today’s technological innovations allow more creative — and impressive — visual effects that do not detract from enjoying the beauty of the night.
Deck lights can be a good place to start. They need to be placed high enough to light the area, but not so high that they cause light pollution for neighbors or people on the water. Placing them anywhere from a foot to three feet off the surface works best. Lights may be mounted low to illuminate deck steps, midway up the railing to better light the outdoor living space, or on top of the posts. Placing them between four and six feet apart works well.
Some people prefer the warmer colors of incandescent bulbs, but LED lights now come in choices that provide a glow that is not as harsh and have the advantage of consuming as much as 80% less energy than traditional bulbs, which is a big help in lowering utility bills. LED lights last nearly 25 times longer than conventional lighting, minimizing the need for frequent replacements and helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Outdoor lighting can mix several types of illumination for dramatic effect. Choosing the right location, deciding whether to light from above or below, and keeping in mind the need to avoid harsh, blinding light that can kill the mood are important considerations.
The use of spotlights to accent objects by shining directly at them can be matched by “backsplashing” them — shining the light at a blank wall behind the object, such as the side of the house or garage or against a retaining wall.
Another approach is to fix a sconce directly below or above a feature. Uplighting and downlighting is particularly effective on highly textured masonry walls, but also on outdoor fireplaces or outdoor kitchens. Downlighting also serves to light walkways.
Lighting can establish a focal point by being placed below a feature and angled slightly upward to call attention to the object.
Outdoor lighting is less obtrusive if it is flush with the ground, often with a cover to direct the illumination. It is especially effective on driveways, walkways, and perimeters. Submersible fixtures can refract the light through water, sending reflections on the walls and other objects, and overhead lights that filter through the leaves of a tree can provide a soft illumination of the yard.
More traditional outdoor lighting — but less subtle — includes strings of lights along the deck or fence. It definitely provides a party atmosphere, but it should be placed in a location that will not interfere with a neighbor’s enjoyment of the nighttime sky.
Lighting is one thing, but sound is another. The days of tran-
sistor radios or boom boxes have been replaced by the current choices in Bluetooth speakers, but there is an even better option: an outdoor audio system. Permanent outdoor sound systems offer high-fidelity music at whatever volume is necessary for real enjoyment of your outdoor space.
The first things to consider when planning for an outdoor speaker system are the size of the area, the type of outdoor activities you and your family plan to enjoy, and how to protect the speaker system from the elements.
The size of the area is one of the biggest considerations because it affects the sound. Smaller and lower-powered outdoor speakers are appropriate for small spaces, but a large outdoor space may call for a much more complex system with larger speakers. Because not every location in an outdoor living space is used in the same way, using a zoned approach ensures the best listening experience. It is a good idea to keep a quiet area separate from the main gathering space so anyone trying to relax or hold a conversation will not have to ask people to turn down the volume. Even then, being mindful of the neighbors is critical for long-term enjoyment of the music. Unwanted is a noise complaint that will stifle future events.
While there are several choices in wireless outdoor speakers on
An example of effective outdoor lighting. (Tom Caldwell Photo)
the market, offering versatility in their location and arrangement, such speakers are limited by the distance to the music player and their vulnerability to the weather. Landscape designers generally recommend a hardwired speaker system instead.
You may want a subwoofer for a pool area or patio, with satellite speakers contributing to an immersive experience. A few accent satellite speakers may be appropriate for quieter areas in your backyard. Some outdoor speakers can act as Wi-Fi extenders and others have a series of lights that are synchronized with the music.
Some companies boast that their speakers are appropriate for outdoor settings, but they prove to be unsuitable for inclement weather. It is important to make sure the ones you choose are fully weatherproof.
Now that you have a plan for speaker placement, it is time to determine where to actually mount them. There are lots of options: underneath a pergola, pavilion, gazebo, or covered porch where the wiring can be hidden; a green space where they can be out of view, such as a garden or series of plantings; retaining walls and other features where they can be affixed while being protected from weather and outdoor activities; or directly on the side of the house or garage.
Many speakers include wall mount kits, which also are available at hardware stores. The wiring can be hidden within the wall or run through a conduit.
Don’t forget the outdoor kitchen. Speakers can be integrated into the kitchen backsplash or mounted overhead.
Outdoor sound systems serve as the perfect complement to outdoor parties and other gatherings, and combined with well-place outdoor lighting, can give your home the ambiance you need to fully appreciate lake living.
Should Fertilizer Be Used Near Waterfronts In The Lakes Region?
By Mark Okrant
Throughout the Lakes Region, property owners have invested substantial sums of money to create an ideal setting within which to reside, raise families, entertain guests, and recreate. Soon after houses are built and occupied, property owners employ various means to make their properties as beautiful as possible. Personal environments generally include lush lawns, attractive shrubs and bushes, and shade trees. While environmental hardships such as those experienced in the desert southwest or the polar regions are lacking in New Hampshire, the plant life here does need help to be able to thrive. This is where property owners and professional landscapers elect to apply fertilizers. By definition, a fertilizer is a chemical or natural substance added to soil or land to increase its ability to be productive— otherwise known as fertility.
early farmers who were applying manure to enrich their crops as long ago as 8,000 years. It has been recorded that Egyptians, Romans, Babylonians, and early Germans used minerals and/or manure to enhance the productivity of their farms. The use of wood ash as a field treatment later became widespread. In the Andes, people used “guano,” the excrement of birds or bats, for at least 1,500 years, before the European countries started importing it in the 19th century to meet ever-increasing demand. Later, guano was taken in large quantities from Peru and Chile, as well as from Namibia and other areas to Europe and the USA.
It is now believed that the first people to use fertilizers were
Increased population growth after World War II generated a need for much higher production levels, and new types of plant seed with increased nitrogen-absorbing potential were found, notably varieties of maize, wheat, and rice. In the 1940s, the use of “normal superphosphate” fertilizers peaked but were later re-
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placed by triple superphosphate and ammonium phosphates. The use of nitrogen, one of the main ingredients in explosives, received the biggest boost from World War II developments. Because of the ill effects of phosphorus on water quality, states began banning the use of lawn fertilizers containing phosphates by 2010.
In some parts of the world, human feces are used to increase the fertility of soil. However, the use of unprocessed human feces as fertilizer is a risky practice as it may contain disease-causing pathogens. Meanwhile, chemicals found in synthetic fertilizers are known to affect human lungs, urinary systems, and more. Urea nitrogen and ammonium sulfate, the primary ingredients in synthetic fertilizers such as Miracle-Gro, can create a greenhouse gas that damages human lungs when exposed to the air. For this reason, many states have limited the use of Miracle-Gro, which contains heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury, and lead.
Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the primary macronutrients that lawns and plants need. According to soil scientists, “Fertilizers with higher ratios are more concentrated than those with lower ratios, so if you see high numbers, you’ll want to dilute with more water before fertilizing your plants. Most gardeners should use a complete fertilizer with twice as much phosphorous as nitrogen or potassium. An example would be 10-20-10 or 12-24-12.” These fertilizers are easy to find; however, some soils contain enough potassium for good plant growth and don’t need more. Following fertilization, nutrients in organic products are gradually released while the substance decomposes over time. Meanwhile, artificially synthesized inorganic products allow for the rapid uptake of nutrients by plants.
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Phosphorous and nitrogen are effective fertilizers that promote plant growth, but unfortunately, leach into waterbodies and may trigger algal blooms, negatively impacting water quality by reducing clarity and oxygen levels, and ultimately threatening the survival of fish and other aquatic life. Therefore, the proper use and application of fertilizers is extremely important. While valuable, New Hampshire’s shorelands are highly fragile natural resources. For this reason, the Shoreland Water Quality Protection Act (RSA 483-B) was created to establish a protected shoreland close to public waters. Using remote sensing technology, scientists have identified the specific boundary—or “reference line”—past which residential lawns should not be extended. Within this area, vegetation removal, excavation, fill, and forms of development are to be carefully regulated.
This act prohibits the use of both organic and chemical fertilizers within 25 feet of the reference line of public waters. Only slow or controlled-release fertilizers between 25 and 250 feet from the reference line may be used. Slow or controlled-release fertilizers are guaranteed to contain no more than 2% phosphorous, and/or a nitrogen component containing at least 50% slow-release nitrogen.
In summary, for those intending to use fertilizer on lawns, one must be careful to protect the chemical and biological balance of the lawn. The Shoreland Water Quality Protection Act only allows low phosphate fertilizer within the protected shoreline, i.e., not within 25 feet from the reference line. A single application at the beginning of fall is recommended.
A second important consideration is family pets. Many commercial garden and landscape fertilizers contain ingredients that can harm a cat or dog if ingested. Some potential adverse effects include abdominal pain, excessive drooling, vomiting, discolored gums, bowel obstruction, difficulty breathing, and inflammation of the liver or pancreas. Pet owners are advised to allow at least 48 hours for fertilizer to be absorbed into the lawn before allowing pets to roam outside.
For most of us, a proper understanding of lawn care may be beyond our level of knowledge. Therefore, one should not hesitate to employ the services of a landscape professional during the early stages of property development. It is commonly recommended that property owners arrange for soil testing by the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension labs before any application of fertilizers is assumed. For further information on this service, visit extension.unh.edu/agriculture-gardens/pest-disease-growing-tools/soil-testing-services.
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How It Pays To Spend Time In Nature
Few things can be as distracting as a beautiful day. When the weather outside is welcoming, it can be hard to focus on indoor activities, including work and tasks around the house. Though it’s not advisable to ignore responsibilities at work and at home when the weather outside beckons, it can be beneficial to spend ample time in nature when circumstances allow.
People tend to flock to the great outdoors in spring, summer and fall, and some are even so devoted that they bundle up and head outside throughout winter. Whether they know it or not, people who love to spend time in nature are doing their mental and physical health a lot of good by embracing the great outdoors.
Mental health benefits
The National Alliance of Mental Illness notes that a growing body of research supports the idea that time in nature is good for mental health. A 2015 study from researchers at Stanford University found that people who walked in a natural area for 90 minutes exhibited decreased activity in a region of the brain associated with depression compared to those who walked in high-traffic urban settings.
The United Kingdom-based Mental Health Foundation also touts the mental health benefits of the great outdoors. According
to the MHF, research shows that people who are connected with nature are more likely to report their lives are worthwhile than those with no such connectedness. In addition, the MHF notes time in nature has been shown to generate positive emotions, including calmness and joy, and promote greater creativity.
When seeking to capitalize on the mental health benefits of time in nature, people should know that where they spend time outdoors matters. As the Stanford study indicated, time outside in high-traffic urban settings may not produce as profound an effect as time spent in natural settings, like forests, that tend to be more serene. People who live in cities or other densely populated areas can still benefit from time outdoors, but they might experience even greater health gains if they make consistent efforts to spend time in more natural settings.
Physical health benefits
The physical health benefits of time in nature are equally notable. Perhaps the most obvious physical benefit is related to physical activity. People tend to embrace physical activity when spending time in nature. Hiking, jogging, walking, nature-based recreational activities like kayaking, and playing sports like basketball or pickleball all involve physical activity, which can help people avoid the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle, such as an increased risk for chronic diseases. More specifically, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation notes the physical health benefits of spending time outside include:
• A stronger immune system
• Lower blood pressure
• Increased energy levels
• Improved sleep
Each of those benefits contributes to greater overall health, making time outdoors among the more beneficial behaviors a person can embrace.
There’s no shortage of benefits to spending time in nature. That’s something to keep in mind the next time welcoming weather beckons you to get some fresh air. ~ Metro
Carved Slate Triptych by Michael Updike
By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper
James Brewer’s garden designs are unique and intriguing. Vertical stones of granite, (among the favorite materials of Brewer’s), and plants and flowers in thoughtful designs lead the eye here and there, through green grassy areas, stone walkways, and unexpected cozy or expansive spaces.
Originally from England, Brewer came to the United States in 2014. Before relocating to this country, Brewer had been immersed in the world of landscape design for many years. “I am mostly self-taught,” he says. “I believe if you are passionate about something, you can become an expert,” he says. The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) shared this opinion and used Brewer’s talents with both radio and TV work.
Brewer is indeed an expert when it comes to landscape designs with enhancements using natural materials. Take one look at his creations with all kinds of materials, and his talents are obvious.
One such project, Wolfe-Henge, was among his first and it launched his career in New Hampshire a few years ago. “The client has a home in Wolfeboro and mentioned he had collected a lot of granite over the years and didn’t really have a use for it. He wanted a garden with an English/European style, and I ended up designing how it would look,” says Brewer.
Having an innate sense of balance and a feeling of how things
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should flow in outdoor spaces, Brewer designed a unique and beautiful garden on the property. The finished product made use of the tall and timeless pieces of granite, a stone Brewer uses often within his garden designs. (He explains there is a lot of granite in New Hampshire, making it fairly easy to obtain the right pieces per project with his valued list of contacts.)
The garden in Wolfeboro is definitely attractive, with a granite archway leading the eye into a special outdoor place of beauty and magic. As one enters the mountaintop garden, Brewer’s design invites one in, with a view of the vertical stones in a circular pattern in the distance. We are instinctively drawn to those granite pieces, following a flat stone path among greenery and flower garden areas, before finally reaching the standing stones. In the middle of the circular stone area, seating allows for relaxing in a unique and peaceful space. The result is a special and tranquil setting highlighted by the mysterious stone slabs surrounding the space.
Brewer relocated his business of 20 years from England to New England, currently nearing three decades of experience. He resides in the Lakes Region, where many of his clients are located. Brewer’s business office is in the Dover area. He has managed to translate his experience creating English gardens into the designs he envisions for his clients, with such appealing extras as a Children’s Secret Garden, Living Willow Tunnels, and the clever use of trees creating special places and sometimes, granite stone entrances. He mentions a recently completed Solstice Garden for a client near a local lake.
Along with granite and greenery, Brewer sometimes uses garden antiques to enhance his designs. While he loves natural hardscape materials, he also is fascinated with New Hamp-
shire’s many old stone walls, realizing the care and craftsmanship, not to mention the time and toil it took to create them.
“I also love using materials such as cedar and oak; I try to make my garden designs as beautiful as they can possibly be,” Brewer explains. “And I like to salvage antique garden items, such as small, circular tables, chairs, and aged statuary.”
The gardens Brewer creates in New Hampshire have definite roots in England, and he says, “I grew up in a small village near the Cotswolds. I was surrounded by natural stone cottages, narrow, winding lanes, and rolling fields in patchworks of colors. Each of my gardens is like a love letter to my former English countryside, but now made better with the stunning plants and natural materials from local family-run businesses in New Hampshire.”
As he gazes at the Wolfeboro Garden with the tall granite stones and the scented garden beyond, Brewer imagines more possibilities. “I would do another path to an Oak Summer House with an elegant English slate roof,” he envisions.
A way to make an area more intimate, as Brewer describes the seating area at the Wolfeboro Garden, is to design it within a sunken area. The giant granite slabs that surround the paved area somehow add to the feeling of intimacy, best experienced when actually seated in the middle of the space.
Gardens created by elevating land and making it something new and beautiful is what Brewer is all about, although he is certainly busy with such projects as creating a natural stone wall within a landscape in Dover. He also has an affection for many styles of gardens, and he mentions one using a large granite monolith with an attractive crescent cut out of one corner. He explains that the sun rises on the summer solstice to sit per-
FLOORING AND TILE
fectly in this crescent, and it is a unique aspect to an already attractive piece of granite. It is among the hidden stories he leaves his clients to share.
One aspect of running a landscape business in New England vs. his home country of England is being aware of the soil and climate. “It is a totally different zone here; the earth is definitely different. The earth is sandier in New England, and in England there is a lot more rain and this makes for moister soil. It is important to mix good soil for balance,” he explains.
From his Dover office, Brewer meets with clients to get a feel for what they might be looking for and what their dream garden could be. “I view each project individually, regardless of the size and budget. I need to know what clients are hoping for and then I give them my initial ideas and together we develop their plan,” he says.
Wolfe-Henge was just such a project. Before Brewer began the transformation, the property was mostly grass, weeds, and sand. After Brewer walked the area, he worked with his clients and designed a plan. “Phase I was a granite archway and a scented garden and espalier fruit trees,” he recalls. “The clients loved the outcome and one year later, they wanted me to design another garden as Phase II.”
Brewer relishes working with clients as he creates a garden unique to each homeowner. “The client will often amplify the process with more ideas and it just snowballs. A signature garden really stretches my ability to make the space the best it can be. I love gardens to have personal interpretations and stories unique to my clients’ lifestyle and among other aspects I take into consideration the direction of wind, sunrise, and sunset,”
he explains.
With a busy, yet very creative design schedule, Brewer relishes the winter months when he ponders a property and a client’s specific needs for their outdoor areas. “While the gardens are buried under a deep blanket of snow, I am busy designing the space in conjunction with my clients.” However, he is always eager when spring and then summer rolls around and he (with his landscape team) can get started to create areas of unique beauty using the many natural materials and cottage garden plants of which he is fond.
With some imagination and talent, even a slab of cold, hard stone can contribute to an area of unique beauty and relaxation.
For information and to see the work of James Brewer, visit www.jamesbrewergardendesign.com or call 603-970-0201.
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Smoking Food For Beginners
There’s no shortage of ways to impart flavor to foods when cooking at home. Smoking food is one method that has grown increasingly popular in recent years.
Smoking imparts unique flavor to a wide variety of foods. Like other approaches to cooking, smoking involves a learning curve that may include some trial and error. Grilling enthusiasts who want to try their hand at smoking food can keep these tips in mind.
• Remember the mantra “low and slow.” Low and slow is the preferred method among cooks experienced in smoking. The method involves cooking foods at low temperatures for long periods of time. When smoking, unlike with traditional grilling, cooks want to ensure the food is not directly over a flame. Smoking stones can be used to absorb and deflect heat, and similar products can accomplish the same. That absorption and deflection allows foods to cook slowly, which in turns helps impart the smoky flavor people love.
• Consider adding water to create moisture. A water pan inside the smoker can ensure foods remain moist while smoking. Long cooking times can dry foods out, but the water in a water pan can make the environment inside the grill more humid.
• Add flavor with wood. Seasoned wood chunks and wood chips can add flavor to foods, and such products are readily available at many grocery stores and home improvement retailers. Choice of chunk or chips depends on which type of smoker individuals have. The grilling experts at Weber advise using
chips when light smoking for less than an hour. If smoking for an hour or more, Weber advises using chunks.
• Consider accessorizing an existing grill. Smokers or grills that can accommodate smoking can be expensive, and cooks who already have reliable charcoal or gas grills may not be able to justify such an investment. In such instances, smoker boxes, which sit right on an existing grill grate and make it easy to transform grills into makeshift smokers, can do the trick. In addition, smoker attachments that can be attached to gas and charcoal grills can enable a less expensive introduction to smoking foods.
• Monitor temperatures. Temperature is important when smoking foods. If temperatures rise too quickly, foods can quickly become dry and overcooked. If temperatures do not rise, foods can sit on the grill for hours on end. Each recipe is unique and will suggest an ideal temperature range when cooking foods slow. That may require staying home and monitoring the grill temperature, periodically adjusting vents to maintain a steady temperature. Many smokers now enable users to monitor temperatures via a smartphone app, and those can be useful for cooks who cannot stick around the house for the duration of the smoking.
Smoking is a popular way to cook foods over an open flame. Smoking may involve some initial trial and error, but the results are well worth navigating one’s way through the learning curve. ~Metro
We are approaching the “dog days” of summer. While New Hampshire isn’t exactly the tropics, thousands of households and businesses will be looking to stay cool in their places of residence and employment. For most, that means using air conditioning.
It may surprise some to learn that air conditioners have been around for more than a century. In 1901, American inventor Willis H. Carrier built what has been recognized as the first modern electrical air conditioning unit. In 1902, he installed his first air-conditioning system in a Brooklyn, New York pub-
Energy Efficient Air Conditioning In Your Home
By Mark Okrant
lishing business. In 1906, Stuart Cramer, a textile mill engineer, was the first person to coin the term “air conditioning.” The first residential unit was installed in 1914 and needed a room of its own, as it was seven feet high, six feet wide, and 20 feet long. Air conditioners continue to evolve and become more efficient. New air conditioning technology has made it possible to cool buildings with less energy. As a result, people can now enjoy the benefits of air conditioning while saving energy and money on their power bills. These units are typically classified as HVAC systems (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) and regulate
both the heating and cooling within a building. What is the best HVAC system to buy?
Higher star ratings (i.e., 5) are more expensive, but the operating cost is considerably less than their lower-rated counterparts. Newer model air conditioners tend to operate much more efficiently than older models, while lowering the environmental impact. Here are some leading air conditioner brands among this year’s models with a brief description of their assets:
Carrier is credited with producing the best overall AC unitsLennox is described as most energy-efficient
Daikin units last a long time
Trane air conditioners offer the most protection
American Standard is best for extreme climates
LG makes the best window AC units
Ruud builds the best basic units
Amana offers the best selection of AC units
In summary, the literature indicates that Carrier is the best air conditioner brand, offering a combination of features that give it some of the most energy-efficient systems. Lennox is rated a close second.
When operating an air conditioner, it is less expensive to leave it running all day. This lessens the necessity to operate the device on full blast. “Reliable home service experts” JD Service Now, offers the following tips to save on air conditioning costs:
Plant shade trees and shrubs around the house
Use window covers
Overusing your thermostat
Install ceiling fans
Service your air conditioner regularly
Purchase an up-to-date system
Use tape, etc. to cover leaks
Minimize the use of your stove and oven
To find the best air conditioner suited to your needs, it is advised to consult multiple websites. Most portable air conditioners can be expected to last from 5 to 10 years. Central air units may last up to 25 years, provided they are well maintained and situated in a well-insulated house. Factors such as size, climate, and the frequency of air conditioner maintenance all influence air conditioner lifespan. Those units used a dry climate will naturally experience less strain than those used in high humidity climates. Regular maintenance remains crucial for ensuring that your air conditioning unit operates effectively and efficiently as it gets older. Cleaning impurities from air filters every few months helps keep dust buildup at bay and minimize strains on air conditioning components that could otherwise shorten the unit’s life span.
The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficient Ratio) rating of a unit represents the cooling output during a typical air conditioning season, divided by the total electric energy input during the same period. The higher the unit’s SEER rating, the more energy-efficient it is. SEER is computed by measuring cooling in British thermal units (BTUs) and energy consumed in watthours.
Air conditioning consists of five major components: condenser, compressor, coil, expansion valve, and blower motor. These elements work together to transfer energy or heat away from a conditioned space. Air conditioners rely on refrigerant to absorb the heat from within your house, which is then released
outside. The indoor coil, which rests above a furnace or air handler, is the source of the house’s newly conditioned air, while the outside condenser is responsible for depositing excess heat. Air conditioning is measured in tonnage, and to maximize efficiency, the unit should be adequately sized to the size of the house which it is cooling.
A heat pump is a device that moves heat from one place to another. An air source heat pump employs the same basic refrigeration cycle as an air conditioner or a refrigerator. A heat pump uses a reversing valve to control the transfer of heat, which allows the homeowner to both heat and air condition their home with a single system. Heat pumps can be up to three times more efficient than a furnace or boiler and can save up to 40% on annual heating costs.
ly, but only remove some humidity. This leaves the room with a damp, clammy feeling. A properly sized unit will remove humidity effectively as it cools.
Controlling the humidity level is one of the most important functions of an air conditioning system, as it is crucial to maintaining comfort and air quality. Excess humidity can foster mold growth that will impact a family’s health and damage furnishings. Meanwhile, too little can lead to respiratory issues and harm wooden items. Homeowners may find it necessary to supplement their air conditioning and heating system with humidifiers or dehumidifiers to achieve a balanced humidity level. This balance ensures a healthier and more pleasant living environment.
Those specializing in HVAC systems note that many homeowners buy an oversized air conditioner, thinking it will provide better cooling. Air conditioners remove both heat and humidity from the air. If the unit is too large, it will cool the room quick-
To protect both people and property, it is always advisable to seek out the services of a heating and air conditioning specialist. For additional information on home heating and cooling best practices, refer to the U.S. Department of Energy website at energy.gov.
How to Keep An AC Unit Running Strong
Air conditioners are a lifeline come the dog days of summer, when soaring temperatures make a wellcooled home a welcome respite from the outdoors. Maintaining an AC unit ensures it will be there to keep everyone cool when the mercury rises. The following are some steps homeowners can take to keep their AC units in tip-top shape this summer.
• Replace the air filter on the unit. Dirt, dust, debris, and pollen can quickly fill the filter on an AC unit. Replacing these filters prior to summer can make the unit operate more efficiently and keep cool air circulating throughout the house all summer. Homeowners can first identify which type of unit they have and then find an online tutorial to see how to replace the filter. Some filters are more expensive than others, but the cost is still low and the energy savings can be substantial.
year, which can help them identify if a unit is nearing its end. That can ensure homeowners are not caught off guard when the unit needs to replaced.
• Help the unit make it through the summer. Whether it’s a typical summer or one marked by a handful of heat waves, AC units can use a little help to get through the season. Closing curtains throughout the house on hot afternoons is a natural way to keep a home cool during a heat wave, and that can cut back on home cooling costs and protect a unit from being overworked. Ceiling fans also can be installed to keep rooms cool and circulate air, which also makes a hot summer a little less taxing on an AC unit.
• Schedule annual maintenance on the unit. Routine maintenance performed by a local HVAC technician is another way to ensure an AC unit is running at peak capacity when it’s most needed. Such maintenance is perhaps most effective in spring, as that ensures the unit is running strong from the first heat wave of the summer all the way through Labor Day. HVAC technicians can identify problems and recommend services that homeowners may not recognize they need until it’s already hot out. Annual maintenance appointments also give HVAC professionals a chance to assess a system compared to the previous
• Use a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats allow homeowners to set the temperatures inside their homes throughout the day. If no one is home during the afternoon, there’s no reason to have the AC cranking. Program the thermostat so the house is comfortable when people are home, but raise the desired temperature when no one is around. That gives the AC unit a break during the day and can help to dramatically reduce the cost of cooling the home.
AC units will not last forever, but some simple maintenance can improve their life expectancy and keep homes comfortable throughout the summer. ~Metro
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Bug-proofing Your Life: Simple Ways to Keep Insects at Bay
By Thomas P. Caldwell
Life in the Lakes Region involves lots of time outdoors, and that means coping with the insects that invade our yards. Some are mere annoyances, but others bring the risk of serious diseases. Controlling mosquitoes and ticks must be at the top of any list for ensuring
complete enjoyment of our property and outdoor activities. Mosquitoes may carry viruses like Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), West Nile, Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya. In New Hampshire, they have been found to carry both EEE and West Nile virus (WNV). Birds are the source of EEE infection, and through mosquitoes, can spread the virus to horses, other animals, and, in rare cases, to people. Mosquitoes with WNV can pass that virus to humans or other animals. Most healthy people do not get sick from WNV, but it may cause problems, including encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord).
Stopping mosquitoes is not easy because they breed by the thousands in standing water. Checking your property for water that has collected in containers, old tires, or other places where it does not drain well is one way to deal with the problem. Emptying the water on a weekly basis can help prevent the laying of eggs or their ability to produce more mosquitoes.
You may choose to take matters seriously by purchasing a mosquito trap. The most effective mosquito traps create environments for them to fly into when they are ready to lay their eggs. Some traps capture mosquitoes before they can lay eggs; others provide a solution that can kill the eggs or larvae before they become adults. Others lure and trap the insects with an attractant like carbon dioxide, fooling the mosquitoes into thinking they are detecting breath.
Many people purchase bug zappers to get rid of mosquitoes
and other flying insects, but experts point out that those devices, which rely on ultraviolet (UV) light, also attract harmless and beneficial flying insects, giving them a deadly electrical jolt. Only a small fraction of the bugs they kill are mosquitoes.
The least expensive way to cope with mosquitoes is to apply insect repellent. There are many products out there, but Consumer Reports warns that many of them are ineffective, and others are dangerous to one’s health. The best products contain one or more of three effective ingredients: DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide), Picaridin, and oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Products with between 15 and 30 percent DEET are safe and can provide long-lasting protection against both mosquitoes and ticks. Larger concentrations can produce rashes and even seizures, but at 30 percent and less, research has shown DEET to be safe even during pregnancy, and for children over two. Concentrations below 15 percent do not work well. Keep in mind that reapplying an insecticide too frequently can elevate the chemical concentration, so follow the directions on the product.
Picaridin sprays with a 20 percent solution are safe and effective as long as they are used carefully to avoid the eyes. They can cause skin irritation. Consumer Reports found that Picaridin lotions and wipes do not work as well as sprays.
Products with 30 percent oil of lemon eucalyptus are effective, and are safe when used properly, although they can cause temporary eye injuries. While it can be used during pregnancy, it is not recommended for use on children younger than three years of age.
There are “natural” insect repellents containing essential oils such as cedar, citronella, clove, lemongrass, peppermint, and
rosemary. While some individuals swear by their effectiveness, Consumer Reports tests render them ineffective, as some oils flunked in less than an hour after application. There is no indication that citronella candles or similar products do anything to ward off mosquitoes.
To effectively protect your yard from mosquitoes, you may want to contract with experts such as Mosquito Squad. Local technicians examine your yard’s unique layout and develop a personalized plan to control mosquitoes where they breed, feed, and harbor. The company will inspect conditions such as standing water, vegetation, log piles, tarps, and shady spots, and then recommend a solution, such as its traditional mosquito barrier treatment. Technicians will spray a proprietary blend of ingredients designed to control and repel up to 90 percent of mosquitoes on contact. The treatment is effective for as long as three weeks, and customers can opt for a recurring arrangement where mosquito control specialists automatically return to your property every 21 days, all season long.
The company also offers a natural alternative to its synthetic chemical repellents for a more pet and family-friendly environment. Using lemongrass oil, geraniol, castor oil, cedarwood oil, sodium lauryl sulfate, and corn oil, the blend is non-toxic, non-synthetic, aromatic, and still works up to 21 days.
Besides mosquitoes, the Lakes Region is now experiencing an increased presence of ticks, spiking the risk for Lyme disease, Babesiosis, Ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Anaplasmosis, Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness, Tick-Borne Relapsing Fever, and Ularemia.
Some of the insect repellents listed above also repel ticks, but some are specially formulated for exclusivity. Permethrin joins
DEET, Picaridin, and oil of lemon eucalyptus as being the most effective against ticks.
Insect repellents that double as UV protection should be avoided because sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, which could increase the percentage of the insect-repellent chemicals being absorbed, leading to adverse symptoms.
Other cautions in the use of insect repellents include applying only to exposed skin or clothing, using just enough to cover and only for as long as needed, and avoid applying repellents over cuts, wounds, or irritated skin. When applying repellent to your face, spray first on your hands, then rub it in, avoiding your eyes and mouth, and use sparingly around ears. Do not let young children apply insect repellent, instead applying it on your own hands and then rubbing it on. Do not use near food, and wash your hands after application and before eating or drinking. At the end of the day, wash treated skin with soap and water, and wash treated clothing in a separate wash before wearing again.
you have spent time in the yard. If you find one attached to your skin, remove it as soon as possible using clean, fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure without twisting it, which can cause the tick’s mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin. If that happens, remove the abandoned mouth-parts with tweezers. If you cannot do so with tweezers, leave it alone and let the skin heal.
After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol or soap and water. Never crush a tick with your fingers, instead putting it in alcohol, placing it in a sealed container, and wrapping it tightly in tape, or simply flushing it down the toilet.
Mosquito Squad can provide both one-time and recurring tick control services on your property. Technicians inspect your property for tick-breeding locations (wooded areas, high grasses, mulch beds) and will go on to develop a treatment plan. It is a good idea to do a full-body check for ticks each time
The other insects that can make life miserable are biting flies (horse flies and deer flies). Bug zappers can help to reduce their number, but unfortunately also kill beneficial insects. A better option is to purchase inflatable “bug balls” which then are coated with an adhesive substance to trap the flies. They are best placed at the edge of a shady area where they are the most effective.
Taking precautions during the biting-insect season can make it a lot more pleasant when holding a backyard barbecue, inviting friends over for a visit, or simply relaxing — all the things that make Lakes Region life so appealing.
Safety Tips For Your Property As A Vacation Rental
Vacations have changed dramatically over the last several decades. Social media has opened doors to new places, as millions of people are inspired to visit locales they first caught sight of via platforms like Instagram. But it’s not just where people are going that has changed, but where they’re laying their heads when they arrive at their destinations.
The online marketplace for vacation rentals has no shortage of inventory, as popular websites such as Vrbo and Airbnb continue to attract property owners and renters alike. Property owners may want to consider using a home or apartment to generate some extra money. According to Alltherooms.com, the average annual host earnings on Airbnb in North America exceeded $41,000 in 2021. That income is notable, and it’s undoubtedly one reason why Airbnb reported adding more than one million active listings in 2023.
Property owners must ponder the pros and cons to listing homes via a vacation rental service. Those that decide to go forward can take the following steps as they prepare to offer their properties as vacation rentals.
• Hire a home inspector. A certified home inspector is typically hired when individuals enter a contract to purchase a home, but these skilled professionals can be just as useful when preparing to offer a property as a rental. Certified, experienced professionals can identify any potential problems or safety issues with a home that could cause trouble when renting a home down the road. Address any safety or structural issues with a property prior to offering it through a rental service.
• Install new safety devices. New smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, locks on exterior doors, and other safety features should be upgraded prior to renting a property. In between each rental, test batteries in alarms and detectors to ensure each device is operating at peak capacity. A new security system with external cameras also can reassure prospective renters that a property is safe. Remote locks that allow for keyless entry to a home is another upgrade that can make it more convenient for hosts and renters to access a property.
• Do your insurance homework. Existing homeowners insurance coverage likely will not apply when renting a home as a vacation property. Prior to listing a property for rent, confirm with your homeowners insurance company the coverage you need to ensure you are protected when renting a home or apartment. Liability and accidental damage coverage are two of the many variables prospective hosts must consider.
• Keep emergency supplies on site. A fully stocked first aid kit, functioning fire extinguishers (more than one) and a listing of local emergency responder contact information (i.e., police department, fire department, nearest hospital, etc.) should be made readily available to renters. Check supplies before each new group of renters gains access to the property, and restock when necessary.
Renting a property as a vacation home is a great way to generate extra revenue. But prospective hosts must take steps to protect themselves and their guests before renting a home or apartment. ~ Metro
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Is Your Lawn Getting Enough Water?
A healthy lawn thrives with the right amount of water and nutrients. Lawn care is a year-long process. Even when the sun isn’t very strong and the temperatures are cold, a lawn still needs water. That water requirement multiplies when higher temperatures lead to increased evaporation.
The experts at LawnLove.com, a lawn care and landscaping resource, say grass needs between 1 and 11⁄2 inches of water a week. Many times precipitation will take care of all of a lawn’s water needs. But in times of drought or infrequent rain, it’s up to homeowners to provide the water a lawn requires.
If homeowners ask a dozen lawn experts what they recommend in terms of watering, they’re likely to offer 12 different answers. The type of soil and grass affects how frequently a lawn needs to be watered. According to the lawn care company Organo Lawn, it’s better to do a deep watering two or three times a week to promote strong grass roots and maintain a healthy microbial composition in soil than to water the lawn daily, which leads to shallow roots and can wash away nutrients. But it is important for homeowners to recognize when their lawns are not getting ample water. Here are some signs a lawn needs a drink.
• Visible footprints: Elasticity of the grass blades decreases when the lawn is not getting enough water. If you walk on the
lawn and footprints do not bounce back in a short amount of time, you likely need to water.
• Gaps between lawn and sidewalk: Lawn Pride says that the soil can shrink in drought conditions. This may be visible where the lawn abuts a driveway, sidewalk or even planting beds. If you walk along the perimeter of a lawn and notice a gap between the grass and hardscape, it is time to water.
• Clumps of grass: It is a sign of drought stress when grass grows in clumps rather than uniformly across a lawn.
• Presence of dollar spot fungus: Grass can become susceptible to this fungus, which also is called ascochyta leaf blight. It only develops in lawns with shallow grass roots caused by improper lawn watering. It’s common in parts of Colorado and elsewhere and is noticeable when damage to the turf begins in the middle of the grass foliage.
• Slow growth: A lawn that doesn’t seem to be growing well, or doesn’t need to be mowed as frequently, likely isn’t getting enough water.
Adequate watering can help a lawn develop strong roots and maintain grass health. Homeowners who have questions about their lawns and watering can consult with a landscaper or a lawn care service. ~ Metro
What To Know About Heatstroke
Summer is indeed all about recreation, but individuals also must remain safe when spending time outdoors. Heatstroke is a potentially deadly condition that can be prevented with some basic knowledge of what it is and how it manifests.
What is heatstroke?
The Mayo Clinic notes that heatstroke is caused by the body overheating. When individuals suffer heatstroke, it is usually because they have been exposed to high temperatures for long periods of time or have been physically exerting themselves in such conditions.
How serious is heatstroke?
Rising temperatures related to climate change have made it less safe to be outdoors on certain days. The risk for heat-related death is serious in places like Phoenix when the mercury rises, but anyone anywhere can succumb to the heat if they are not careful. Various organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, note that heat-related illnesses are preventable. Prevention involves recognition of symptoms prior to going outdoors and a willingness to go inside should any symptoms begin to arise.
Symptoms of heatstroke
Heatstroke can manifest in various ways, producing symptoms that may include:
• Elevated body temperature: The Mayo Clinic notes that a core body temperature of 104 F or higher is a main sign of heatstroke.
• Altered mental state: Someone suffering from heatstroke may begin to feel confused, agitated, irritable, and/or delirious. In addition, such individuals may begin to behave erratically,
which can involve slurred speech.
• Changes in sweating patterns: People may begin to sweat differently depending on why they are suffering from heatstroke. When heatstroke is brought on by hot weather, a person’s skin will feel hot and dry to the touch, notably leading to a lack of sweat. When heatstroke occurs because of strenuous exercise in hot weather, the skin may feel dry and slightly moist.
• Nausea and vomiting: Heatstroke can make people feel sick to their stomach and even induce vomiting.
• Flushed skin: This recognizable symptom is marked by skin turning red as body temperature spikes.
• Changes in breathing: Heatstroke can cause rapid, shallow breathing.
• Elevated heart rate: The Harvard Medical School notes that the heart experiences stress when the human body sheds heat. That stress can cause the heart to beat faster and pump harder.
• Headache: Some people with heatstroke experience a throbbing headache.Preventing heatstroke
The CDC notes that drinking plenty of water, cooling off in air conditioned rooms, limiting time outdoors on particularly hot days, taking frequent breaks if you must be outside, and wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher are some ways to beat the heat and avoid heatstroke.
Heatstroke is a notable, yet preventable threat. Making an effort to avoid heatstroke while spending time outdoors this summer can ensure the season is safe and fun. condition that can be prevented with some basic knowledge of what it is and how it manifests. ~Metro
6 Tips For Staying Hydrated This Summer
Summer is marked by hot and humid conditions. After all, the band The Lovin’ Spoonful didn’t sing, “Hot town, summer in the city. Back of my neck getting dirty and gritty” because the summer weather is crisp and cool. Although summer temperatures can make a day at the beach or in the pool ideal, that rising mercury also can contribute to dehydration.
The Mayo Clinic advises that water is critical to every cell, tissue and organ in the human body. The body relies on water to function properly. Water helps to regulate body temperature, flush waste from the body, lubricate and cushion joints, and promote healthy digestion. And that’s just the start. So when temperatures climb and the body begins sweating to cool off, it is vital to replenish lost fluids at a faster rate. The U.S. National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine says women should consume 2.7 liters of fluid per day, while men need 3.7 liters. These amounts increase if one is exercising, sweating, has an illness like a fever, or is vomiting.
The following are six ways to stay properly hydrated to avoid adverse reactions during hot summer days.
1. Consume a glass of water when you wake up. Start the day off with some water to give you an energy boost and get your metabolism moving.
2. Coffee and tea count toward fluid intake. Drinking your favorite tea or coffee is an another way to take in fluids. A 2016 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport found that caffeine doesn’t contribute to dehydra-
tion for healthy adults, so having a cup or two should be fine.
3. Certain foods are hydrating as well. Hydrating foods include cucumbers, celery, tomatoes, watermelon, strawberries, grapefruit, and peppers. The Mayo Clinic says the average person gets 20 percent of his fluid intake from food.
4. Make water more fun. Add unsweetened flavoring to water if you find plain water too bland. You can squeeze in lemon or lime juice, or float cucumber or apple slices in the water for some flavor.
5. Reach for calorie-free beverages before food. It’s easy to mistake the signs of dehydration for hunger. By drinking a glass of water or another unsweetened beverage prior to every meal, you can stay hydrated and reduce the amount of food you eat. This can be part of a healthy weight loss plan.
6. Occasionally consume electrolyte powders and drinks. Working out in the heat or sweating profusely can unbalance electrolytes in the body. The Cleveland Clinic says electrolytes are substances that help the body regulate chemical reactions and maintain balance between fluids inside and outside of your cells. They include sodium, calcium and potassium. An electrolyte-infused beverage can help replenish these lost substances. Staying hydrated is essential at all times, but it’s especially important when summer temperatures can make loss of body fluid more significant. ~Metro
