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HOME & GARDEN
2014
PRESTON TRADING POST
Warming Hearths and Hearts for 40 Years
see page 12
2 • FALL HOME & GARDEN 2014
SEPTEMBER 21, 2014
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HOME & GARDEN 2014
4 ............... GETTING THE MOST OUT OF FARMERS MARKETS 6 ...............TOP 5 BATHROOM UPGRADES 7 ...........................CHIC STORAGE IDEAS 8 ........... EXPERT TIPS ON SUCCESSFUL VEGITABLE GARDEN 9 ...................... SAVE ENERGY & MONEY 10 ....... DO’S & DON’TS OF TACKLING A TILE PROJECT 12 ..................PRESTON TRADING POST 14 ..................................KEEP GROWING 15 ........................... THE HUMAN TOUCH 17 ........ CHOOSING A HARDWOOD FLOOR 22 .................. HOW TO TRICK THE EYES
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4 • FALL HOME & GARDEN 2014
SEPTEMBER 21, 2014
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“Get to know your purveyors. See where they come from,” Reyes advocates. This sentiment is shared by Chef Elizabeth Thompson, culinary arts faculty member at The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire. Thompson recommends asking farmers what’s best to buy right now. “They grow whatever they sell, which makes them experts. Ask to put be put on their email list. They may send out information about what is in season and what to do with it,” she adds. Thompson makes it a point to try something new each time she visits a farmers market. “Sample everything! That is how the farmers sell their products, and you will know what you like.” CSA - COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE In addition to visiting the farmers market, many people are choosing to become CSA shareholders, paying in advance for weekly boxes of produce. CSAs create a direct relationship between farmer and consumer, according to Thompson. CSAs allow busy people to pick up their share boxes at a convenient location, and teach them how to use what’s inside. For those interested in supporting local farmers, CSAs provide a critical influx of cash to farmers during the off season, helping them to better prepare for the planting season ahead. Whether shopping weekly at the farmers market or picking up a CSA box of fresh produce, buying local allows consumers to taste fruit and vegetables at their peak flavor. From striped heirloom tomatoes to strawberries picked fresh just hours before, farm fresh foods provide a burst of flavor and a connection to the community that cannot be found within a large supermarket.
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6 • FALL HOME & GARDEN 2014
SEPTEMBER 21, 2014
TOP 5 TRENDY BATHROOM UPGRADES THAT DON’T COST A BUNDLE
o one ever said “trendy” translates to “cheap.” Yet when it comes to on-trend, luxury upgrades, you don’t have to spend like a diva to make your bathroom look and function like a designer’s dream. From skylights to shower seats, some of the hottest bathroom trends of 2014 are surprisingly affordable to accomplish.
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Home website Houzz polled users and asked what bathroom upgrades they most desired. Many of the answers were both luxurious and affordable (like skylights and double-flush toilets). Others were downright easy, such as towel warmers and foot rests in the shower. Here are five hot bathroom improvement trends and some ideas for incorporating them into your home: SKYLIGHTS Many Houzz respondents said they would like a skylight in their bathroom. They’re definitely on to something. In rooms where privacy is a concern, skylights can provide both natural light and ventilation without exposing your personal business to the neighbors. They’re both beautiful - endowing bathrooms with a major “wow” factor - and practical; Energy Star-qualified no-leak, solar-powered fresh-air skylights from Velux America can help trim electricity costs by providing natural light and passively venting moist, warm air from the room. Install solar-powered skylights and blinds, and the cost of the products, as well as the installation, can qualify for a 30 percent federal tax credit. And for 10 weeks during the summer there’s also a $200 cash rebate from Velux on solar skylights. You can create a big impact for a small price with a makeover that only takes a couple of days. Visit www.whyskylights.com to learn more and to locate the closest certified installer.
ARI CABLE F A S
DOUBLE-FLUSH TOILET The ongoing trend of making homes greener may have helped inspire the 23 percent of Houzz fans who said they want a double-flush toilet. Dual-flush toilets allow you to use only the water you need to get the job done - less for liquid waste, more for solids - so they contribute to a home’s overall footprint and can help trim water bills. It’s possible to find dual-flush options for less than $250, so they’re a lower-cost upgrade to begin with. They’re even more cost-effective when installed by a savvy DIYer. TOWEL WARMERS Who doesn’t love the comforting warmth of a towel fresh out of the dryer? Towel warmers deliver that effect without the hassle and expense of running the dryer. Wall-mounted or free-standing, plug-in or hard-wired, all towel warmers work the same way; heated bars warm towels hung on the rack, providing a cozy, warm towel every time you bathe. Plug-in versions install easily, while hard-wired ones may require professional installation. Prices can range from less than $100 to more than $600, depending on the style and features you choose. SHOWER FOOT REST Clearly, this is one improvement that most benefits the women in a home, but 10 percent of those polled by Houzz said they wanted a foot rest in the shower. This one is such an economical improvement, you may wonder why anyone wouldn’t do it. Some suction-cup styles cost under $20. For a more refined look or enhanced sturdiness, it’s possible to find one that anchors into the wall through screws, or a style built into shower surrounds. If you’re redoing your shower stall, it’s the perfect time to add a stylish, sturdy foot rest.
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LIGHTED VANITY MIRROR In keeping with the lighting theme, 41 percent said they would like a lighted vanity mirror. Home improvement stores, design studios and online retailers carry a wide variety of options in shapes, sizes, styles and light sources (LED, CFL or incandescent) to suit virtually every taste. Because installing a lighted vanity mirror is a simple do-it-
yourself job, it’s also a very low-cost improvement that has a big impact on a bathroom’s appearance and usability. With such a huge variety, it’s possible to find a mirror that will fit your budget, whether it’s less than $100 or more than $1,000.
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CHIC STORAGE IDEAS TO CORRAL CLUTTER
ith the fall season comes cool weather and more time indoors. Snuggling up with blankets and partaking in activities at home can create more clutter than usual around the house. Instead of getting frustrated, it’s easy to add stylish storage to corral extra items. Get organized and keep your home clutter-free with a few smart tips.
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NEAT READING RACKS Many people enjoy a good read before counting sheep. However, books, magazines and tablets can just add disarray if left scattered around the bedroom. To combat this type of clutter, add wall-mounted magazine racks or crates to hold your reading pieces. Paint a wooden crate using FrogTape Multi-Surface painter’s tape. Add stripes in striking colors for a reading rack that’s functional and fabulous looking. FrogTape is the only tape treated with PaintBlock Technology, which forms a micro-barrier against paint bleed, giving you sharp and precise paint lines. Learn more at frogtape.com. After drying, cut your crate down the middle - you now have two spots for book
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storage. Install simple wall-hanging brackets to the edges of the crates and attach each to the wall with drywall anchors for a sturdy and safe finish. These are also great for stowing away toys in a child’s playroom or towels in the bathroom. BOOST BEDROOM STORAGE If every closet, nook and cranny in your home is occupied, it’s time to look toward other avenues for order. Calm your chaos with under-bed storage units by transforming old dresser drawers into storage space. Paint the drawers in the color of your choice and drill casters to the bottom for easy rolling access. Slide them under your bed and you can now neatly put away items that were once a nuisance. MULTIPURPOSE SEATING Chic ottomans and cushioned benches are great pieces that provide extra seating in family rooms. But in addition to their pleasant outward appearance, many contain hidden storage underContinues on page 23
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8 • FALL HOME & GARDEN 2014
SEPTEMBER 21, 2014
3 EXPERT TIPS FOR STARTING A SUCCESSFUL VEGETABLE GARDEN ool weather begs green thumbs across the country to break out their gardening gloves and till the soil for the season’s plantings. Whether this is your first year tending a home garden or it’s something you’ve been doing for decades, gardening offers many rewards, including time spent outdoors, the ability to feel closer to Mother Nature, and of course, the fresh fare plucked just steps from your kitchen.
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Anyone can have a successful home garden no matter where they live by following a few steps from professional gardeners. Consider these three important tips for starting your garden right so you can enjoy fresh produce faster, thanks to the experts at Outdoor Essentials - makers of garden beds, compost bins and other gardening necessities. STEP 1: RESEARCH APPROPRIATE LATE PLANTINGS Fall is ideal garden time thanks to milder weather, and a good place to start is by researching proper plants for your region’s late season. If you have questions, consult your local nursery or call your local extension office for specialized advice.
In general, good late plantings include brassicas, a family of plants that includes kale, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and cabbages. Additional cool-season crops to consider include radishes, beets, peas, potatoes and carrots. These plants will thrive early in the season and produce yields quickly. In addition to quick-producing plants, the early season is the best time to plant other varieties that take a long time to mature. Onions, for example, require a lengthy growing season and should be planted early so that in late summer, gardeners can enjoy the maximum yield possible. Want produce quicker? Consider purchasing starter plants, also called plant starts, rather than relying on packets of seeds. These are the small plants that have already germinated and have a basic root system. These are easy to transfer to your own garden and, with proper tending, will grow quickly and produce fruit faster. STEP 2: PREPARE GARDEN SPACES FOR ACCELERATED GROWTH After months of not being used, your garden’s soil is likely compact and will require some tilling to loosen the dirt and encourage plant growth. You can do this with a garden rake; for large gardens, some people prefer to rent a power tiller. People who live in smaller homes, a townhouse or condo might prefer to use raised garden beds. Stylish and functional, raised garden planters from Outdoor Essentials eliminate the need to bend over to tend garden, a benefit that has made them vastly popular. Raised garden beds can be used virtually anywhere outdoors, including on a deck or patio, and they can be moved, too, if necessary. Whether you create a garden plot in your yard or add a few raised-garden planters to your patio, make sure the dirt is nutrient-rich and ready for your plants. Typically it’s wise to mix black dirt in Continues on page 20
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FALL HOME & GARDEN 2014
•9
SAVE ENERGY & MONEY BY CATCHING THESE INVISIBLE ENERGY THIEVES
oday’s consumers are more environmentally conscious than ever before. They understand that making eco-friendly choices not only creates a positive impact on your surroundings, it can also translate into actual savings on monthly energy bills.
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If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint and make your home part of the “green” initiative, Christine Ackerson, head of sustainability at LG Electronics USA, offers the following tips to help you protect both the environment and your bottom line. GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR REFRIGERATOR Most consumers focus on keeping the inside of their refrigerators clean, but keeping the outside clean is just as important. Dusty coils actually can impact the refrigerator’s overall efficiency, because when dirty, they trap heat and prevent the refrigerator from cooling efficiently. The grills and coils should be cleaned once or twice a year and more often if you have pets. Use a vacuum cleaner with an attachment to clean the condenser cover and vents of your refrigerator. You can also use a soft bristled brush to access some of the hard-to-reach areas. Also, older refrigerator models can use a lot of energy. Consider upgrading to an ENERGY STAR(R) qualified refrigerator, which is 20 percent more energy efficient than the federal minimum energy standard. You can also look for refrigerators with energy-saving technologies like a linear compressor. New refrigerator features like LG’s Door-in-Door can actually reduce cold air loss by up to 47 percent. The convenient door-within-a-door compartment on the fridge door allows quick, easy access to commonly used snacks and beverages without requiring you to open the entire refrigerator door. INSULATE YOUR HOME Heating and cooling your home is one of your biggest energy costs, and if your home isn’t properly insulated, you’re losing money. Start by closing your windows and sealing any drafty areas you find. Hire a professional to insulate drafty areas of your home if you don’t feel you can handle them on your own. TURN IT OFF Plug home electronics, such as TVs and DVD players, into power strips. Turn the power strips off when the equipment is not in use as equipment still uses several watts of power when they are in standby mode. And be sure to unplug your cellphone charger when your device is fully charged. COLD IS THE NEW HOT A quick tip when it comes to laundry is washing clothes with cold water whenever possible. Look for washers equipped with “cold wash” technology, which achieves cold water savings with warm water washing performance. Another way to save water is to try to wash full loads, or if you must wash a partial load, reduce the level of water appropriately to avoid usage of extra water. DO YOUR RESEARCH Finding home appliances and electronics that are energy efficient is not difficult. Look for the ENERGY STAR “Most Efficient” designation when shopping for your next appliance, like LG’s mega-capacity washer that allows you to wash more clothes with fewer loads. This distinction recognizes the most energy efficient products among those that already are ENERGY STAR qualified. Or look for an ENERGY STAR refrigerator that’s earned the Green Good Housekeeping Seal, an emblem given by the Good Housekeeping Research Institute in recognition of brand’s demonstration of environmental responsibility. Percent reduction in exchange rate of air between opening the door-indoor compared to one French door for 10 seconds. Results based on testing of comparable LG model with same Door-in-Door design.
10 • FALL HOME & GARDEN 2014
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• 11
Continued from page 10 As you gather visuals, you’ll most likely notice a similar pattern and/or shape of tile or stone materials that you’re drawn to, which can range from ceramic, porcelain and glass to marble or slate. This will help you narrow down a style of tile to use. One material that is very versatile is Travertine from The Tile Shop. It comes in a neutral color palette, perfect for using on the floor, walls, backsplash, around the fireplace or even outdoors in warmer climates. It is available in stores and for purchase online. DON’T: GO OVERBOARD Too many patterns or colors in one space can overwhelm a room. Instead, keep things clean and simple. DO: CHECK YOUR COLORS Before purchasing all the materials for your project, bring samples home so you can see the colors in the space. “Store lights and the lights in your kitchen are very different, and all of the sudden, what you thought was a beige color in the store might look green in your home,” says Froelich. Also match your tile samples against other colors that will be in the room, from the paint on the walls to the granite countertop to the wooden cupboards and floor. By matching samples, you’ll know the finished project will result in the exact look you want.
DO: MEASURE TWICE This tip applies not only to the planning process, but also to the installation process, especially if you need to cut tile. Once you’ve measured and double-checked your measurements, don’t be afraid to have someone else repeat the process to ensure accuracy. DON’T: IGNORE THE DETAILS A tile project will go from nice to stunning if you add simple finishing touches to the project. For example, Froelich recommends mitering corners for a professional look and finishing any raw edges of the space with bullnose, stone profiles or trim pieces. DO: USE RESOURCES Take your plans, photos, sketches and any color swatches you’ve selected to The Tile Shop so your sales associate can work with you to achieve your vision, and help you find the perfect tile for your project. Additionally, a tile setter can help you avoid common design or layout mistakes. For a final check before cutting and installation, lay out the tiles out in the place and pattern you’ve designed so you can make any last-minute adjustments. If you’re doing the tiling yourself and need a refresher, The Tile Shop offers free DIY classes every Saturday at 9:30 a.m. in all stores. “Once you have your design, your materials and you have tested your pattern, you’re ready to start the project,” Froelich says. “Roll up your sleeves and get started so you can enjoy your updated look for many years to come.”
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SEPTEMBER 21, 2014
PRESTON TRADING POST: WARMING HEARTHS AND HEARTS FOR 40 YEARS
By Anna Maria Trusky Special to the Press he Farmers’ Almanac is predicting one doozy of a winter! In the words of the venerable volume’s editor, Peter Geiger, this will be “another one for the record books” in terms of cold and snow, with the infamous polar vortex having a major meteorological influence here in the Northeast, as it did last winter.
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With such a dire forecast looming, it’s no wonder the stove business has been booming at Preston Trading Post, which just celebrated its 40-year anniversary. The award-winning, family-run store offers the nation’s largest selection of wood, gas, and pellet stoves to keep customers cozy and warm no matter what Mother Nature and her crafty sidekick, Old Man Winter, throw their way. According to the company’s president and owner, Joe Biber, substantial incentives from manufacturers and a special program sponsored by the American Lung Association have been helping to boost stove sales to the rafters. “The American Lung Association currently has a woodstove exchange program that applies to all of Rhode Island; New London, and Windham counties in Connecticut; and three counties in Massachusetts,” Biber explains. “Residents in these areas are eligible to participate in the program if they have a woodstove dating back to before the Environmental Protection Agency implemented modern health and safety standards. The program allows residents to trade in their old woodstoves for new clean-burning wood, pellet, or gas appliances.” About $1.8 million has been budgeted for the program; when those dollars run out, so will the opportunity to trade up to a more environmentally-friendly stove. Imminent inclement weather, manufacturers’ incentives, and exchange programs notwithstanding, this is a terrific time for people to consider installing a new home-warming appliance thanks to tremendous advancements in stove manufacturing, Biber says. “There have been many exciting technological advancements in stoves and other hearth products that mean higher levels of
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FALL HOME & GARDEN 2014
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efficiency, cleanliness, and safety as well as greater ease of use for customers,” he explains. “For example, some pellet stoves come equipped with touch-pad, wireless, remote-control features. Woodstoves are continuing to evolve and there are many amazing and beautiful models on the market today. People who had negative experiences with woodstoves in the 1970s and 80s should really take a look at the incredible options that are available now.” Let’s not forget, Biber adds, that the weather in our area has caused many power outages during the last few winters. “We’ve had a lot of situations where people have lost the ability to heat their homes. It’s wonderful to be able to stay warm even when you are ‘off the grid,’” he points out. Brands carried include Jotul, Quadra-Fire, Hearthstone, Morso, Heat ’n’ Glo, Harman Central Heat, Energy King, Ventis, and Superpro. Preston Trading Post provides a high level of technical support to its customers and installation is performed by local professionals. MUCH MORE THAN STOVES Preston Trading Post sells much more than stoves; additional products offered include fireplace tools, chimney caps and liners, venting systems, thermometers, stovetop steamers, fans and blowers, grills, cast-iron cookware, outdoor furniture, as well as indoor furniture, which is enjoying growth in sales. “There isn’t a lot of good news in our local economy in general,” Biber acknowledges. “That’s why we are so pleased to see a recent increase in sales of our furniture lines, such as dining room sets.” Customers are flocking to Preston Trading Post for furniture because they appreciate the quality and variety. “The furniture we sell is 90 percent hand-made in America. We carry such lines as Gat Creek and Saloom; a rarity as one of the few furniture makers left in New England. This offers many options, including choice of wood finish, table edge, and chair style,” Biber explains.
A row of pellet stoves on display on the first floor. Photos GRACE WHITE/Sun Publishing
A FAMILY TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE Biber is proud and thankful to be carrying on the tradition of business excellence established by his parents, Jacob and Eva, who emigrated from Europe to the United States and started operating a dairy farm on the land where Preston Trading Post stands today. Holocaust survivors, Jacob and Eva endured many horrors, including the loss of their entire families, but emerged united in devotion to each other and determination to start a beautiful new life together. And so they arrived in Connecticut in 1947, purchased a failing dairy farm, turned it around, and then started a highly profitable egg business, which supplied eggs to major grocery store chains for more than two decades. In 1972, they sold that business, but Jacob, who loved interacting with people and still had a lot of energy and drive, was far from ready to retire. The Bibers enjoyed antique hunting, so they decided to open an antiques and collectibles business. “My father was very determined,” Biber says. “He went to work making shelving to display their wares. They traveled to auctions and started buying items for the store, which included furniture, china, woodstoves and old wood-fired kitchen ranges.” Then a fateful event became the catalyst for the future direction of the business: the first oil embargo struck in 1973. Gas prices skyrocketed and people started looking for wood stoves. Jacob happened to have a lot of them on hand, and they began to sell like the proverbial hotcakes! “Reps from some of the old stove companies that were still in business approached my father to see if he would be willing to commit to serious volume selling so people could come here and get a good deal. Always brilliant, a little daring, and blessed with a love for people and desire to help them, my father agreed. Continues on page 18
A round walnut table with upholstered chairs is among the various dining options available.
14 • FALL HOME & GARDEN 2014
SEPTEMBER 21, 2014
KEEP GROWING WITH SEASON-EXTENDING GARDENING TIPS FOR FALL arm weather, continued care and robust plants have yielded a bounty of beautiful, fresh vegetables - and personal satisfaction - from your garden this season. As the weather cools and fall approaches, it is not time to hang up your hat, gloves and trowel for the year. Autumn provides optimum weather and ample opportunity to keep growing and harvesting delicious, healthy produce well into the season.
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Some gardeners assume that when fall arrives and kids return to school, they’ll have less time to garden, and may experience less success from their garden plots. But cooler temperatures and fall conditions can actually make gardening easier and more enjoyable. Many of fall’s best-producing vegetables are also colorful, making them great additions to flower beds and containers.
If you loved summer gardening, you can keep your garden growing right through fall. Here’s how to make the most of fall season gardening: SIZE UP THE SOIL Most vegetable plants require full sun for six or more hours a day, and because fall provides a bit less sunlight than summer, you may need to relocate your plot to make the most of shorter days. If moving your garden isn’t an option, you can still take full advantage of sunshine by planting veggies in containers or by creating a raised bed in a sunny spot. If you’ll be reusing your summer garden plot, remove any leftover debris. Don’t forget to pull up weeds before they go to seed. Fluff any compacted soil with a garden fork. Next, test the soil to see Continues on page 18
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THE HUMAN TOUCH:
HANDCRAFTED ITEMS OFFER UNIQUE, CUSTOMIZED APPEAL he quilt handed down through generations, the turn-of-thecentury wooden rocking chair made by a long-gone relative, hand-stitched samplers that have graced every home your family has lived in - handcrafted items simply speak to the soul. In today’s society, when we’re surrounded by technology and homogenous machine-made items from clothes to curtains, handcrafting imparts a human, customized quality to home decor.
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If you crave a handcrafted look in your home, it’s easy to achieve with design elements that can be as simple or luxurious as you wish. Handcrafted items can be found virtually anywhere, including places like your local antique store, specialty showrooms and even online. Whatever your budget, adding key handmade items to your home can evoke that sense of quality, refinement and soul throughout your interior decor. Start with these unique elements to bring the beauty of handcrafting into your home: HARDWOOD SHUTTERS Beauty, charm and practicality meet in hardwood shutters. The perfect tool to protect rooms from too much sun and to help keep indoor temperatures cool during hot summers and to keep heat in during cold winters, shutters add architecture to the window and are a true a design statement. You don’t have to scour the Internet looking for a specialized artisan to create hardwood shutters, nor do you have to settle for something mass-produced that lacks the custom Continues on page 21
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Continued from page 14 if any amendments are needed. Even if your soil is in good shape, adding a 2-inch layer of bagged compost or a balanced, natural fertilizer like Bonnie Plant Food can give plants a boost.
Bonnie favorites for fall include:
Be prepared for frost. Keep materials on hand to protect plants when frost threatens, such as floating row cover, a cold frame or a cloche. On frosty, cold nights, move container plants to a protected spot. Not sure when frost will arrive in your area? Check out the USDA frost map on the Bonnie Plants website.
• Cabbage - A staple of Oktoberfest celebrations across the country, cabbage comes in several varieties, all of which are high in beta-carotene, vitamins C and K and fiber.
PICK YOUR PLANTS While crops like strawberries and tomatoes have faded to sweet summer memories, many plants thrive in fall. To ensure a successful harvest, it’s important to pick the right plants and give yourself a jump start by using transplants, rather than starting off with seeds. Planting six-week-old transplants ensures you’ll have the best opportunity to take advantage of fall’s shorter season, and you’ll harvest sooner than if you plant from seed. Producers like Bonnie Plants provide garden retailers with transplants intended to grow well during the specific growing season and are suited for your geographic region. Seasonally appropriate transplants ensure you’ll have greater success in your garden. An added bonus of fall planting is that many cool crops are also packed with nutrition and are among the healthiest vegetables you can eat. Choose hardy crops that can withstand light frost and temperatures as low as 25 degrees. Hardy
• Broccoli - This versatile veggie is packed with vitamins K, C and A, and is a good source of folate.
• Kale - Some varieties of kale, like Winterbor Kale, actually taste better when kissed by frost. A prolific producer, kale thrives in fall gardens and is a good source of vitamins A, C, K and B6, as well as manganese. • Leeks - Prized by gourmets for their milder flavor, leeks are frost-tolerant in all but the coldest planting zones. The health benefits of all onions are well documented, and leeks also add a pop of bright color to culinary dishes. • Spinach - This nutrient-rich green does as well in fall’s cooler temperatures as it does in summer heat. Spinach will continue to produce throughout the season, providing a tasty source of vitamins A, C, K and E, as well as the minerals iron, potassium and magnesium. The end of summer doesn’t have to herald the end of your garden harvest and enjoyment, or a return to the grocery store produce aisle. With the right fall crops, you can achieve a satisfying, healthful harvest throughout the fall. Visit www.bonnieplants.com to learn more about fall gardening and cool-weather crops.
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FALL HOME & GARDEN 2014
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CHOOSING A HARDWOOD FLOOR THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU
fter kids go back to school, homeowners finally have time to complete remodeling projects. This makes autumn a popular time for home improvements. In fact, home improvement activity is expected to peak in the final three months of 2014, according to the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity developed by the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University.
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Installing hardwood flooring is one of the most popular renovation projects. Homeowners desire hardwood floors for many reasons. They’re durable and can withstand the wear and tear of playful kids and pets. They retain a classic, natural look and feel, adding to a home’s elegance. Plus, hardwood floors are simple to clean and maintain. Since a floor is a key design element, it’s important to make sure the right one is selected based on its location and the homeowner’s lifestyle and personal preference. With the wide variety of flooring types, choosing the right floor for a space can be overwhelming. These key tips will help homeowners find and install the perfect hardwood floor.
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To help find a color preference, online applications allow customers to mix and match flooring styles with room decor. The Designer Toolbox from Lumber Liquidators, for example, includes a Floor Finder App where different flooring styles can be placed within an image to help visualize a finished room. It also features an inspirational gallery of before and after flooring photos from homeowners. After finding the perfect floor, it’s time to install it. People can hire professionals or save money by doing it themselves. With online tools, such as Lumber Liquidators’ Flooring 101 guide, even novice DIYers can improve their homes with confidence.
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LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION Where the flooring will be installed is an important consideration to ensure the floor will retain its beauty for generations. If on or above ground level, there are a wide variety of options available, from solid hardwood to bamboo varieties. For below-ground-level installations, such as basements, it’s important to choose a flooring type - such as engineered hardwood - that can withstand moisture.
SUIT YOUR LIFESTYLE If the hardwood floor will be in a well-traveled part of a home, or serve as ground zero for active kids and pets, it’s best to choose a wood variety that is at least as hard as red oak, as this is the industry benchmark for comparing the relative hardness of wood species. Viewing how floors compare on this scale and considering lifestyle attributes will help determine the flooring that’s right for a room. In addition, there are other flooring varieties to consider such as cork, laminate and vinyl for those who want the most durable hardwood alternative.
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SEPTEMBER 21, 2014
Continued from page 15 Preston Trading Post opened its doors on September 4, 1974,” Biber explains. Joe came on board in 1978. He’d been working at North Shore Hospital on Long Island as a laboratory technologist, and agreed to help out his father for a few weeks. This “temp job” turned into a satisfying lifetime career that’s still going strong. “What I brought to the business was a more scientific approach than the competition had,” he points out. “I make sure our staff gets a very high level of training and product knowledge so we can really understand the benefits of our products and convey these benefits to our customers.” Jacob stayed on until 1988, when he retired and moved with his beloved Eva to Florida. When she became ill, he was her devoted caregiver until he passed away in his 90s; she joined him a few years later. “Everyone who knew them was astounded by his constant attention to her every need. My father even exercised well into his 90s; that’s so he would have the strength he needed to take care of my mother,” Biber recalls lovingly.
SEPTEMBER 16 – NOVEMBER 4, 2014
Papa and Mama Would Be Proud There’s no doubt that Jacob and Eva would be proud to see the way Joe is running Preston Trading Post today. The business continues to grow and to provide outstanding products and caring, attentive customer service. There are 17 employees now (13 are permanent full-timers) and in addition to the brick-andmortar location there are now two websites through which the store does a brisk business in cyberspace. Preston Trading Post also has an active Facebook page, where product information is posted and the public may post questions and comments; many of the posts are compliments from satisfied customers. “Many businesses haven’t had this long a run,” Biber says. “We are so grateful for the loyalty of our customers and all the business they’ve done with us over the years. We are working hard to make Preston Trading Post even better!” Preston Trading Post is located at 651 Route 165, Preston Connecticut. Hours are Monday, Tuesday, and Friday 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday 9:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. For more information, call (860) 886-1484; send an email to biber@ prestontradingpost.com; or go online and visit the company at www.prestontrading. com, www.stoveworld.com, or https://www. facebook.com/prestontradingpost.
An antique replica stove greets customers at the entrance to Preston Trading Post. Nearby wood and electric heaters are on display
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Continued from page 8
your soil to ensure that plants grow strong. If FOR with you’ve had trouble growing in the past, consider
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STEP 3: TEND DAILY AND ENJOY THE FRUITS OF YOUR LABOR For best results, tend your garden on a daily basis. for soil moisture and water as necessary. • 25.5 hp (19 kW, 745 cc)*Check Make sure to pluck weeds and watch for pest in• Full-timeFOR 4WD festations. If done daily, it should only take a few minutes to verify the health of your garden, plus • 4-wheel steering1 it’s fun to watch plants grow and flower.
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As fruit and vegetables mature, it’s time to enjoy the season’s first harvest. The healthy fresh fare tastes even better knowing you grew it yourself, plus it cuts down on grocery bills. If you find you have too much of one type of produce at once,
share with neighbors, coworkers and friends everyone loves fresh garden delights. Keep in mind that as plants grow, you need to make sure they don’t overcrowd each other. This can limit growth and yield production. If your garden starts to look overgrown, you may need to pluck out a few plants to open up space and encourage proper growth and healthy root systems. Spring to it! The mild, moist weather and longer days of the early gardening season make the conditions ideal for plant growth. With a few simple steps and a watchful eye, you’ll be enjoying fresh produce at almost every meal. For more garden inspiration, visit www.outdooressentialproducts. com.
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s October 31, 2014. Subject to approved installment credit with John Deere Financial. For commercial use only. Some restrictions apply. Other special rates and terms may be available, including for consumer use, so see your dealer for complete details and other financing options. Available at participating dealers. 2Offer ends October 31, 2014. Subject to approved credit on a Revolving ends Deere October Financial, 31, 2014. Subject installmentuse creditonly. with 4.9% John Deere Financial. For commercial only. Some restrictions apply. may Other be special rates andincluding terms may be available, for including unt, a service1Offer of John f.s.b.to approved For commercial for 48 months only. Otherusespecial rates and terms available, financing consumer use. Available at 2 Offer by endsdealer. OctoberGet 31, 2014. to approved creditTractor. on a Revolving financingand for models consumer may use, sovary see your dealer for3Offer complete details and other options.and Available at participating ends October 31,financing 2014. Prices model availabilitydealers. may vary $160Subject off the D160 Lawn Prices are suggested retail ing dealers. Prices by dealer. Plan account, a service of John Deere Financial, f.s.b. For commercial use only. 4.9% for 48 months only. Other special rates and terms may be available, including financing for consumer use. Available at y and are subject to change without notice at may any vary time. Dealer3Offer mayends sellOctober for less. Taxes, setup, delivery, freight preparation charges Attachments and implements sold separately. 31, 2014. Prices and model availability may and vary by dealer. Get $160 off the not D160included. Lawn Tractor. Prices are suggested retail participating dealers. Prices and models by dealer. th the optionalprices equipment notsubject included in the price. special rates andfreight termsandmay be available, soincluded. see your dealer for andsoldother financing options. Available only and are to change without noticeSome at anyrestrictions time. Dealer mayapply. sell forOther less. Taxes, setup, delivery, preparation charges not Attachments and details implements separately. Shown with the optional equipment nottorque includedinformation in the price. Some specialmanufacturer rates and terms may available, see your dealer for detailsonly. and other financing options. horsepower Available pating dealers.*The engine horsepower and arerestrictions provided apply. by theOther engine to bebe used forsocomparison purposes Actual operating and torque will be at participating dealers.*The engine horsepower and torque information are provided by the engine manufacturer to be used for comparison purposes only. Actual operating horsepower and torque will be r to the engineless. manufacturer’s website for additional information. **Hour limitations apply and vary by model. See the LIMITED WARRANTY FOR NEW JOHN DEERE TURF AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT at Refer to the engine manufacturer’s website for additional information. **Hour limitations apply and vary by model. See the LIMITED WARRANTY FOR NEW JOHN DEERE TURF AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT at e.com and JohnDeere.ca/TUWarranty for details. John Deere’s color scheme, theleaping leaping symbol andDEERE JOHN areoftrademarks of Deere & Company. JohnDeere.com and JohnDeere.ca/TUWarranty for details. Johngreen Deere’sand greenyellow and yellow color scheme, the deerdeer symbol and JOHN are DEERE trademarks Deere & Company.
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1 Offer ends October 31, 2014. Subject to approved installment credit with John Deere Financial. For commercial use only. Some restrictions apply. Other special rates and terms may be available, including financing for consumer use, so see your dealer for complete details and other financing options. Available at participating dealers. 2Offer ends October 31, 2014. Subject to approved credit on a Revolving Plan account, a service of John Deere Financial, f.s.b. For commercial use only. 4.9% for 48 months only. Other special rates and terms may be available, including financing for consumer use. Available at participating dealers. Prices and models may vary by dealer. 3Offer ends October 31, 2014. Prices and model availability may vary by dealer. Get $160 off the D160 Lawn Tractor. Prices are suggested retail prices only and are subject to change without notice at any time. Dealer may sell for less. Taxes, setup, delivery, freight and preparation charges not included. Attachments and implements sold separately. Shown with the optional equipment not included in the price. Some restrictions apply. Other special rates and terms may be available, so see your dealer for details and other financing options. Available at participating dealers.*The engine horsepower and torque information are provided by the engine manufacturer to be used for comparison purposes only. Actual operating horsepower and torque will be less. Refer to the engine manufacturer’s website for additional information. **Hour limitations apply and vary by model. See the LIMITED WARRANTY FOR NEW JOHN DEERE TURF AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT at JohnDeere.com and JohnDeere.ca/TUWarranty for details. John Deere’s green and yellow color scheme, the leaping deer symbol and JOHN DEERE are trademarks of Deere & Company.
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FALL HOME & GARDEN 2014
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Continued from page 15 appeal of handmade. Hunter Douglas now offers Handcrafted Series finishing techniques in its heirloom-quality Heritance hardwood shutters, which feature dovetail construction, used on fine furniture for generations. These finishes include special hand treatments designed to replicate the character and charm of natural wood. Whether you desire a rustic appearance that includes knots, pin holes, mineral streaks and growth rings, a glazed and burnished effect with hand-rubbed glaze and hand-sanded frame corners or distressing that celebrates the passage of time, you can achieve the look with Heritance hardwood shutters. These hardwood shutters underscore the attention to detail and quality that characterize handcrafting in home decor. Visit www. hunterdouglas.com to learn more. RECLAIMED FLOORING Older wooden floors were commonly hand-planed, giving them unique beauty and personality. While many flooring manufacturers now offer planks that give the appearance of hand-planed wood, reclaimed flooring - wooden floorboards rescued from older buildings - can be a cost-effective way to incorporate real handcrafting into a room. Reclaimed floors offer singular character by recycling wood that might otherwise have ended up in a landfill, and they also help you do something good for the environment.
HANDCRAFTED FURNITURE Whether you opt for antiques or choose something more contemporary, handcrafted furniture speaks of quality and customization. Each piece hand made by exacting furniture artisans is unique, and creates a one-of-a-kind effect in your home. What’s more, a handmade piece of furniture can become a cherished family heirloom - be it a rocking chair for the nursery or an accent table for the family room. The superior quality and individuality of handmade furniture can make it well worth the investment. ACCESSORIES Incorporating handmade art and other accessories is a cost-effective, versatile way to achieve the appeal of handcrafting in your home decor. Antiques are often handcrafted. Placing actual paintings or hand-sculpted artwork throughout your home, rather than machine-produced prints or knickknacks, adds a depth of quality and character to decor. Choose hand-stitched accent pillows or hand-knit throws for comfort and individuality. With so many handcrafted options available, it’s easy to create a one-of-a-kind, quality effect in your home decor. From shutters to floors to accessories, handcrafted items endow interior décor with personality and a custom look that will be truly your own.
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SEPTEMBER 21, 2014
HOW TO TRICK THE EYES WITH THE MAGIC OF HOME IMPROVEMENT
rom disappearing acts to mind games and sensory illusions, the art of magic is all about making your audience believe what they are seeing, taking a seemingly impossible task and making it possible. This timeless art can inspire you to perform some magic of your own using simple home improvement tips to fool the eyes and transform small, drab spaces into ones that will surely astound and amaze.
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SEEING IS BELIEVING Paint color is an easy and inexpensive way to create an optical illusion. When used properly, certain paint colors can actually make a room look larger. Take white, for instance. Using very light colors or whites, like Ultra White from Dutch Boy, can help reflect natural or artificial light, making the walls seem to disappear and creating a space that looks bigger. Picking the perfect neutral can give the illusion that your walls are receding. This subtle DIY secret keeps eyes focused on the colors and patterns of the furnishings and accessories in the room, rather than on the size of the room itself. EMBRACING YOUR DARK SIDE Most people believe dark colors shouldn’t or can’t be used in small spaces, but that’s not the case. If you use the color on everything - the moldings, cabinets and walls - the unified, seamless look makes the room appear larger. Paint the room with a dark color, like Dutch Boy’s Mosaic Tiles or Chanson Bleu in a semi-gloss finish, and light will bounce off the shiny surface, creating the appearance of a brighter, larger room. Conversely, if you have a room that is overwhelmingly large, the opposite principals can be applied to make it look smaller. Use dark colors, but this time in a flat finish, to minimize the appearance of the room. An alternative way to trick the eye with paint - and add a level of sophistication and luxury to your home - is by using a faux finishing technique, replicating the appearance of materials such as brushed suede, granite or old world plaster. A DISAPPEARING ACT Another way to keep costs and clutter down is by making trim and other decor items vanish. Instead of over-furnishing, accessorize with multi-purpose pieces like a decorative storage chest that can double as a coffee table or a set of nesting tables that can be easily stored when not in use. Place large furniture against the walls to open up the space. Paint pieces like armoires and shelving units the same color as the walls and hang matching draperies to help them blend. The room instantly feels larger. Opt for furniture with open arms and exposed legs to keep your eyes flowing through the room. Introduce glass or glass alternative tables, which are almost invisible. Mirrors are also a great, inexpensive way to open up a space, giving the illusion of depth. But don’t overdo it with accessories - keep it simple and clean. With just a little bit of practice and a few home improvement tricks up your sleeve, you too can be an interior illusionist. Your friends and family will be left wondering how you did it.
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FALL HOME & GARDEN 2014
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Continued from page 7 neath the lid. Neatly stow away movies, games, blankets and pillows that would otherwise crowd this high-traffic area. Position the furniture as an accent piece or place a lengthy bench along a window for a cozy reading nook, while simultaneously increasing your storage. COZY STAIRCASE STORAGE The space under stairs is often overlooked as a storage spot, since it’s usually closed off with drywall. What most homeowners don’t realize is this tricky triangle is typically hollow, and the “wasted” space can be utilized to store your family’s odds and ends. For extra functionality, transform it into a closet if you’re a DIY weekend warrior. All you’ll need is a couple of days and these steps: • First, frame the door opening for your new closet. Use a drywall saw to create the outline that fits the pre-hung door of your choice. Secure the hinged side to the frame and use wood shims (thin pieces of wood that will properly align the door) to ensure it’s a secure fit within the opening.
• Now, determine what size storage containers and hooks the space will allow and create shelves and cubbies. Using a nail gun, install ledger strips around the entire closet to support the shelves, making sure they’re level. Secure with screws and install your painted shelves for a cozy - and contained - storage solution. If the construction of this project seems a bit too ambitious, reach out to a trusted contractor to handle the building components. You can tackle the most fun part - painting! Whether you have limited storage or are simply looking for ways to bring order to your home, now is the time to reorganize. With these suggestions, you’ll achieve a modernized and tidy living space, in no time at all.
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• Next, you’ll need to create the closet walls inside. Measure the area of the closet and cut sheets of plywood or drywall to those dimensions (depending on how “finished” you’d like the final space to look). Paint the plywood in the color of your choice and install it by nailing it to the existing studs. Just keep in mind that drywall will require a few extra steps, like taping, mudding and sanding before it’s ready to paint.
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