House & Home — May 2016

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Volume 1  Issue 2

Lovin’ life in log homes

may 2016

2

May

2016

Dennis Pam Pezzimenti Pezzimenti

211 N 11th St • Olean MLS# B496991

Walk into the comfort of this 4 bedroom 1.5 bath home with lots of updates.

Beautiful oak kitchen with new tile floors, family room with gas fireplace and french doors that lead out to the deck and backyard. Some of the updates include bathrooms with tile floors, newer windows in all the bedrooms,and newer hot water tank make it easy to move right in.

Call Kelly Patrone 716-353-3222

132 N 21st St • Olean

MLS# B497059

Great 3 - 4 bedroom, 2 bath home on a nice neighborhood street, close to shopping, schools, and the river trail. This home has had many updates including, vinyl siding, windows, roof, electric , etc. in the last 8 - 10 years. The downstairs bedroom could be easily converted back into a dining room which would open into the large living room. A 2 car garage and a fully fenced in yard for privacy.

There is also first floor laundry and an extra office/ computer room.

Call Christine Young 716-378-8140

129 S 18th St • Olean MLS# B497288

This four bedroom one half bath home in Seneca Heights is right for you. The home has a newer kitchen with a formal dining room. The living room has wonderful hardwood floors with an electric fireplace. The second floor has bedrooms and an updated bathroom. The third floor could be used as a playroom or an additional bedroom. Enjoy your summer in the cozy backyard.

Call Michelle Fitzpatrick-Baer 716-378-4271

208 S 26th St • Olean MLS# B497771

Three bedroom home in quiet, safe neighborhood with access to the Allegheny River Trail.

Home has a new kitchen with stainless appliances, quartz counter tops, quality cabinetry, breakfast island, and other features designed with the chef in mind, three full baths, large breezeway/mudroom, attached two car garage with bonus room over it. Second floor deck with a new salt water hot tub and finished basement with bar and built-in desk and custom cabinetry.

Call John Dwaileebe 716-378-3953

John Dwaileebe

Kelly Patrone

4637 S Nine Mile Rd • Allegany

MLS# B497788

This four bedroom two full bath home has 2.65 acres with it.

Some of the land is across the road near the river where you could camp, four wheel, or go fishing right in your own front yard. The roof, siding, 12 windows, heating system and hot water tank are all new.

Call Pamela Pezzimenti 716-373-5398

Paul Pezzimenti

Regis Handley

Tina Michelle Jakubczyk FitzpatrickBaer

409 Madison Ave • Olean MLS# B498074

Christine Young

1976 Dugan Rd • Olean MLS# B498187

Don’t miss out on this six bedroom three bathroom home situated on a quiet street close to the golf course. The home has a huge kitchen and living room. The master suite consists of a bathroom and walk in closet. The lower level has a family room with a bedroom and bath if you are looking for in laws quarters. There is an oversided deck and balcony overlooking the wooded double lot along with a large storage shed.

This five bedroom two and half bath home is located minutes outside Olean.

The home has a family room with bar and a living room with a wood burning fireplace. The first floor has three bedrooms and one and half baths. The upper level has two bedrooms and a bath.

The backyard is a haven with an above ground pool, covered patio, and large deck with the woods behind you.

130 S 5th St • Olean MLS# B498895

116 S 10th St • Olean

Call Pamela Pezzimenti 716-373-5398

Call Dennis Pezzimenti 716-378-8989

PENDING

255 Hamilton Ave • Olean MLS# B498414

GREAT LOCATION! This amazing home sits right on the Bartlett Country Club golf course. The house features hardwood floors, two gas fire places and a beautiful view from the sunroom and the back deck. This house is a must see! Call today for a private tour!

Call Regis Handley 716-307-9256

81 Hawthorn Ln • Allegany MLS# B498697

The home has four bedrooms and two and half bathrooms. The master suite with Jacuzzi tub is on the first floor as is the laundry. There are an additional three bedrooms and bathroom on the second floor. The kitchen opens up to the family room that leads out to the deck.

Call Dennis Pezzimenti 716-378-8989

854 Four Mile Rd • Allegany MLS# B498820

Move right in to this tastefully decorated ranch with 5 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Master en suite master bath has been remodeled, beautiful hardwood floors and crown molding in main living areas, eat in kitchen and formal dining room, family room with a wood burning fireplace and french doors that lead out to a large deck.

Call Kelly Patrone 716-353-3222

132 E Forest Ave • Olean MLS# B499071

This lovely cape cod has plenty. There is a gas fireplace in the living room.

The home has hardwood floors with one bedroom and bathroom on the first floor and two bedrooms on the second floor. There is a covered patio on the back that has a great view of Olean Creek. There is a detached one car garage with an additional carport.

Call Dennis Pezzimenti 716-378-8989

210 N 19th St • Olean MLS# B499035

Below market value for this 2 bedroom 1 full bath ranch home on a dead end street. Eat in kitchen with plenty of cupboard space. Large living room with wood burning fireplace . Newer furnace and plumbing are an added bonus. Great backyard fully fenced in with a patio area for outdoor sitting.

Won’t last long.

Call Kelly Patrone 716-353-3222

This home is in great condition. Everything has been done. It has three bedrooms and one and half bathrooms.

There is a wonderful front porch to enjoy warm summer evenings..The home has an eat in kitchen plus a formal dining room. This property also has a two car garage. All this and the property is only priced in the 50’s.

Call Dennis Pezzimenti 716-378-8989

MLS# B498001

Move in ready 3 BD, 1.5 BA home on a nice neighborhood street. Kitchen has been updated. Enjoy your evenings on the front porch or back deck.

Call today to take a look.

Call Tina Jakubczyk 716-307-8298

May

May 2016

Volume 1 • Issue 2

What’s inside...

Your House 4

Testing shows if treatment needed for private wells

5

Keep driveway costs down with annual maintenance

Your home 6

‘Beat the Song’ can be a great way to make cleaning fun

7

Preparing lawn mower for summer

8

The surest sign of spring

9

Pick the right mattress — and keep it clean

feature 14

Lovin’ life in log homes

Your hobbies 18

“American Pickers” to film in New York this summer

20

Going ‘green’ with reclaimed barn wood

Your finances 21

Holiday Valley Realty finds new home

24

Pepper and Crandall merges with Real Estate Pros

Publisher

Jim Bonn

Executive Group Editor

Jim Eckstrom

Special Sections Editor

Rich Place

Advertising Managers

Justin Parkes

Jill Henry

Preston Cochran

Digital Manager

Chelsea Place

Contributors

Rick Miller

JoEllen Wankel

David Schuat

Rich Place

Kate Day Sager

Olivia Austin

Deborah Belli

Amy Hayden

Advertising Representatives

Lucy Nuzzo

Leanna Cameron

Deborah Perry

Tiffany Mager

Christina Briggs

Jenn Mong

Tim Stokes

Graphic Designer

Matt Keim

Circulation Manager

Nichole Finnerty

Published every month by Bradford Publishing

2016

3

4

Your House

May

2016

Water Well

Testing shows if treatment needed for private wells

By Rick Miller

Special to House & Home In light of the crisis in Flint, Mich., where city residents were exposed to high lead levels caused by a switch to a more corrosive water source, many people are wondering about their own water.

Like others with municipal water in New York, residents on municipal and public water systems in Cattaraugus County get an annual report card telling them the status of their drinking water. They know what’s in their water. The next report cards come out later this month.

But what about homes beyond the city water mains that rely on water wells for their drinking and other uses? How do they know what’s in their water?

Eric Wohlers, director of the Cattaraugus County Health Department’s Environmental Division, said homeowners regularly contact water treatment providers such as Kelner Water Systems and Jones Well Drilling if they begin the smell something in their water — sulfur, for example — or their clothes begin to show rust streaks from iron.

Company representatives have inexpensive test kits they use to test homeowners’ water to determine if there is a problem and what is the best way to treat the problem.

Wohlers said the county laboratory only tests for bacteria.

Anyone looking to test their water for lead would have to rely on a private lab. The Health Department can recommend companies to do those tests, he said.

When someone buys a home with a water well, that water is tested before the sale is finalized. The water is tested for bacteria and nitrates to make sure it is drinkable. The cost is $30.

A nitrate test is another test made regularly in rural areas in proximity to agricultural operations, including livestock and fertilizing. High nitrate levels are dangerous to pregnant women and infants. That test is $32.

To obtain a federal Housing and Urban Development (HUD) backed mortgage, a property’s water well needs to be tested for coliform bacteria, lead, nitrates, nitrites, iron, manganese, sodium and hardness. The cost of this test is about $150. Life Science Laboratories Inc. has a Cuba office and can arrange for collection bottles, Wohlers said. For information, call (585) 209-4032.

Additional testing may be recommended in areas near petroleum products, including gas and oil tanks, solvents, PCBs and pesticides. Those tests also are arranged through a private laboratory. The county Health Depart-

ment often uses a private laboratory in Erie, Pa., for this type of testing, Wohlers said.

Well water may contain iron, sulfur or other minerals that would need treatment to remove them.

It’s unlikely well water would contain high lead levels, but lead solder in water pipes in older homes can be a concern — particularly if the water has a low pH and is mildly corrosive. Lead solder for use in public water systems and indoor plumbing was banned in 1987.

Old lead solder could leach into the water supply, Wohlers said. Over the years, it could become covered with minerals that often build up inside water pipes and be may less likely to leach lead into the water.

Many health officials suggest letting water run for 30 seconds — or until the water turns cold — to flush the standing water that has remained in interior plumbing for an extended period of time. This will flush any lead that may have leached into the water from solder connections in the pipe, Wohlers said.

Jay McCarthy, owner of Kellner Water Systems in Olean, which provides a wide range of water services, said he thought more well owners would call with concerns over lead after the Flint water crisis.

“People have asked about it, but I haven’t seen an increase in calls for tests,” he said.

“Usually, any lead you’d see would be from the plumbing. It’s rarely in the water supply itself.” The best way to find lead contamination would be to target older homes, said McCarthy, who has been in the business for 20 years and bought Kellner three years ago.

McCarthy also manages a large number of public water systems — including many trailer parks — and, despite regular testing for lead, has never found a violation of lead levels in water.

May

5

2016

Driveway

Your House

Keep driveway costs down with annual maintenance

By Olivia Austin

Special to House & Home Having your driveway replaced can cost several thousands of dollars, but annual maintenance can help keep water and oil from seeping into cracks and making them bigger.

Where you live can often dictate how often your driveway should be resealed. In dry places like deserts, it’s wise to reseal annually but other climates only require resealing once every two or three years.

Curt Anderson of Bisett Building Center in Bradford recommends maintaining your driveway in accordance to manufacturer’s instructions, and to keep in mind our harsh winters, temperature fluctuations and salt buildup. Failure to follow manufacturer’s instructions on application may result in poor product performance and also may void any warranties.

Anderson recommends sealants made to protect from salt, specifically, for concrete driveways and garage floors, as the salt does not affect the asphalt the same way it affects concrete.

An easy gauge to determine quality of sealant is to check the length of the warranty; generally speaking, the longer the warranty, the better the product.

There are different “looks” for concrete sealants which carry different purposes and warranties as well. Also note the amount of work each product will create; for example, standard asphalt will need mixed every few minutes while gel does not require mixing.

When hiring a professional to repair and seal and surfaces, feel free to ask what products they are planning to use, how long the warranties last and whether or not the products are authentic (not watered down, mixed, etc.).

Knowing what will be used and how it will be applied will better inform you on how long your driveway or garage should keep and what to look for, as well as when you should call someone back for further maintenance. Informed consumers are also able to request certain products or equivalents.

Businesses should keep an even closer eye on driveways and parking lots because of the cost of replacing such a large area, if not properly maintained.

Below are some tips for DIYers. This may also help aid in the decision of whether to DIY or hire a professional.

PREP Wear “junky” clothes and shoes; do not wear good hunting boots or nice sneakers. Goggles, gloves and a dust mask are highly recommended because of the chemicals used in sealants.

Check the weather before beginning the project. Most products recommend 24 to 72 hours of dry weather as a minimum.

Driveways must be properly cleaned and dried before fixing cracks and applying sealant. Use a tarp if necessary to repel leaves, pine needles or any other objects which may fall into your driveway if there is a long lapse of time between cleaning and sealing.

Power washing is preferred since it thoroughly removes all dirt, rocks, loose gravel or concrete and objects lodged into cracks; you can also purchase special masonry cleaning solution to add to the power washer. Effective power washers can be purchased for under $100 and they plug into a three-

pronged outlet. Local businesses such as Bisett’s have power washers to rent as well.

If you do not feel comfortable operating a power washer, use a stiff-bristled broom to sweep out objects from cracks and hose down the driveway using the highest pressure setting. Doing this on a warm, sunny day will assure proper drying before beginning on cracks on asphalt. Always start at the highest point and work your way downhill.

CRACKS/PATCHING/LEVELING Repairing cracks before applying the sealant is imperative to keeping the integrity of the asphalt or concrete. Repair kits and products are used for different sized cracks, including length, width and depth. There are also “sink hole” cracks and large chips; check to see which ones you have before buying any products. “Spider cracks” begin to break apart the asphalt and concrete and the deterioration can become rather costly if not patched immediately. For what seems like “miniature craters,” unless you have experience, it is best to have them repaired by a professional, as gravel, cement and/or asphalt may all have to be involved in the process. Some potholes and large cracks need to be cut out and redone to avoid further repairs, replacements and costs.

The driveway must be completely dry and it should be above 65 degrees Fahrenheit before any driveway repairs are performed on asphalt (check the directions on the product before beginning to see if that particular solution requires a different temperature). If water is sitting in the asphalt cracks, it will stay sealed under the repaired areas, causing it to expand and contract when the weather changes, creating more cracks next year. There are asphalt sealants which carry sand in them to fill tiny cracks and voids as well.

Bonding liquids are necessary for concrete driveways, as concrete does not stick to itself. Some products include the bonding liquid in the mix.

SEALING Checking all manufacturer instructions before beginning. Also check to see which tools are suggested for use when buying the products as well as which tools will void warranties.

Each product will include application instructions. By following these instructions as closely as possible, the product will last longer and work more effectively. Many products have explicit instructions on where to start and how thick of an application is necessary. Once again, mind the fine print in the warranty section.

“Do-It-Yourself” may be the way to go if you have the time and energy to spend on going through all the steps properly. If you do not have time or there are numerous cracks and they are all different sizes and types, it may be better to hire someone to repair and reseal your driveway. Businesses have all the products on hand and the experience to work in a quick and effective manner, keeping costs and future repairs to a minimum.

When sealing new concrete, be sure to wait the full curing duration (around four weeks) before sealant is applied. There are sealants specifically made for new concrete.

Manufacturers’ websites are an easy way to search specific product information without rifling through a manual, watching videos on proper application and to contact the manufacturer with any questions.

6

Your Home

May

2016

Cleaning

‘Beat the Song’ can be a great way to make cleaning fun

By Olivia Austin

Special to House & Home Sometimes simple cleaning and maintenance is pushed to the wayside until “spring cleaning” rolls around each year, but often there is so much to do it’s nearly impossible for everything to be cleaned properly.

As you tell yourself you’ll just have to do it later, it doesn’t need to be done or maybe you’ll get to it next year, be honest with yourself: it may never get done.

Cleaning can be an aggravating burden, which is why so many procrastinate. We all know cleaning does not mean only getting the household products out and using some elbow grease; it almost always involves weeding out and organizing.

One method that can be used is to clean to “beat the song.” Some generations may remember having a record player that would either have 45s or 33s drop when the midle moved to the middle, keeping a constant flow of music.

Now, CDs and MP3s on our music devices or phones work well too — it doesn’t matter as long as you like the music!

“Beat the Song” entailed choosing a task and saying yourself that, by the end of the song — or two or three songs, depending on the task — you’ll have completed that part of the cleaning.

It’s not uncommon to break things down by folding laundry, putting away laundry, scrubbing the toilet, vacuuming, wiping the windows, washing the dishes, sorting through old mail, etc. For many, it might be the best way to avoid getting caught up trying on outfits, looking at old pictures or

any other easy distraction.

Just be sure to thoroughly complete each task; if you fail to finish before the song, you lost that round.

Along with a fun way to clean, included is a categorized checklist along with a key to the suggested minimum frequencies of cleaning and maintenance.

Those who are unable to take a block of time to knock all of it out — or do not have any available and willing children or a spouse to help — you may want to decide to take on one or more major projects each week or weekend with some small ones in-between, then keep up with proper maintenance. If you try to space things out and schedule specific days for certain weekly tasks, your house has the potential to remain in near perfect order. Then, when a surprise or large project emerges, there is no overwhelming feeling of impossibility!

Please remember the “three Gs” while cleaning and sorting: garage/ yard sale (or other ways to sell your stuff, including newspaper classifieds or online sites), Goodwill (or any other donation site), garbage!

TIP Look online for the following:  Uses for vinegar and baking soda  Warranties for products (and what will void your warranty)  Which cleaning products to use with each surface or fabric  Monthly and weekly checklists

May

7

2016

Lawn Care

Your Home

Preparing lawn mower for Summer

By JoEllen Wankel Special to House & Home

As the weather warms and the spring rains have helped the grass to grow, that familiar sound of the lawn mower is about to once again become a daily reminder that the summer season has arrived. However, before you get the lawn mower out and start mowing, it is a good idea to do some routine maintenance and make sure your lawn mower is prepared for the next few months.

Late April to mid-May is the busy time for local businesses that specialize in lawn equipment maintenance. If you plan on working on your lawn

Check the Battery and Air Filter Make sure the air filter is in good shape. Remove the filter and tap it against a flat surface to get rid of debris. Also, consider replacing if the filter is dark in color. The battery may need replaced after sitting all winter.

If the engine won’t start, the battery is a good place to start looking for trouble.

The oil filter will also need changed on a regular schedule. Consider reading through your lawn mower manual for the recommended maintenance schedule.

mower yourself to ensure it is capable of Sharpen the Blades

standing up to the increased wear and

Using a blade that is dull will result in

tear, here are some tasks to complete.

a browned appearance to your lawn. This is because a dull blade shreds rather than

Check the Fluids

cuts the lawn. Keep the blades sharpened

The first and most basic task to check off the list is to check the oil and gasoline

in order to have a well-manicured and

in the mower. Some people prefer to emp-

green landscape around your home.

ty the mower of fuel before the winter hits.

Check the Spark Plugs

If you have not taken this route, you may

If the battery is new and your lawn

consider emptying the fuel in the mower and replacing it with new fuel. Gasoline

mower is still not starting, check the spark

that has sat in the tank for longer than a month can clog up the carburetor

plugs. They may be dirty or damaged from the long stationary period. If

and lead to more problems later. Meanwhile, it is a good idea to check

the spark plug is difficult to remove, try using a spray to loosen it instead

the oil levels and be sure that the oil is registering on the dipstick. Oil needs

of forcing it. This can cause other issues with the engine if something goes

to be changed regularly. The manual that came with the lawn mower has

wrong when you are struggling to remove the spark plug.

a recommended maintenance schedule. Also, when you are changing the oil, grease each fitting on the mower to keep things running smoothly.

With these areas attended to, your mower should be ready to run smoothly for the entire season.

8

Your Home

May

2016

Lawn Care

The surest sign of spring

By David Schuat

Special to House & Home Nothing signals the arrival of spring more clearly and emphatically than the appearance of dandelions. There is a bit of excitement when you drive down a country road and pass a field of bright, green grass and thousands of bright, yellow dandelions. Your excitement might not be shared by the owner of the field, however.

Dandelions, the name comes from the French dent-de-lion, or lion’s tooth, are native to North America and Eurasia. They are found nearly everywhere in the U.S., except in deserts, wetlands, and at high elevations. The plants begin to bloom in our area in late April, depending on the severity of the winter and are an early source of food for bees.

The dandelion originally evolved 30 million years ago in Eurasia and has been used by humans for food and as an herbal remedy for much of recorded history. Today there are 60 species of dandelion. The plant is very versatile as a food and is a source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well calcium, potassium, iron, and manganese. The leaves can be eaten raw in salads or boiled. The blooms can be used to make wine. The root can be roasted and ground into a caffeine-free coffee substitute. It is also an ingredient in root beer and the British soft drink, dandelion and burdock.

As an herb, all parts of the dandelion have been used in history for disorders ranging from digestion, liver, kidney and it is considered a diuretic.

One species, the Russian dandelion, produces a rubber-like sap. It was cultivated during World War II in Russia and the U.S. as a rubber substitute, though it only yields about 10 percent of what rubber plants do.

There is a recent resurgence in interest in the species due to blight affecting conventional rubber plants and changes in land use.

Despite the dandelion’s long history and its usefulness, few gardeners or lawn owners are fond of it. Many go to great lengths to rid their property of the plant. Strategies for eradicating the plant depend on how many you have. You can simply dig up lone dandelions. It is important that you

Ways To Rid Your Yard Of Dandelions

Dig ‘em up Be sure to dig up all of the plant — taproots can be up to 12 inches long.

Pour boiling water Or spray 5 percent vinegar solution Using these directly on plants will help eradicate them from your yard.

Spread corn gluten meal Placing this 4 to 6 weeks before plants appear is supposed to prevent growth.

Spread mulch A simple way of smothering the weeds.

Use a garden torch This will kill the dandelions by burning them. dig up all of the plant; the taproot of a mature dandelion can be as long as 12 inches. Any part of the root left behind will likely regenerate.

When you have a few — too many to dig up or pull — you can pour boiling water or spray a 5 percent vinegar solution directly on the plants.

Spreading corn gluten meal four to six weeks before the plants appear is supposed to prevent growth (though determining when to spread the meal might be tricky). You can also use mulch to smother them or a garden torch to burn them out. Chickens and rabbits are fond of dandelions. If you can move their pens, they can help control dandelions.

If you have a big yard and lots of dandelions, the best way to control them is to mow before the blossoms go to seed. Overseeding your lawn, to crowd out the dandelions, is another strategy. It also works against other weeds and improves the appearance of your lawn.

No matter what method you use, remember that you will likely be doing it again next spring. Dandelions produce lots of seeds which are carried by the wind. Even if you get rid of all that are in your yard, it’s likely that someone down the road won’t been as diligent as you.

(David Schaut is a master gardener with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Allegany County.)

May

9

2016

Bedroom

Your Home

Pick the right mattress — and keep it clean

By Olivia Austin

Special to House & Home Although this can often be last on someone’s priority list, mattresses are one of the most important fixtures in your home to clean and maintain.

You sleep on your mattress every night; your body touches your mattress more than any other piece of furniture. Do you want a dirty mattress sending oils and dust mites through the sheets onto your skin every night for hours?

Proper cleaning and maintenance can save everyone from acne, rashes, unneeded oils, money and headaches!

CHOOSING Deciding on which mattress to purchase can be as simple as picking the first one you see with a brand you recognize or it can take months of deliberating. Important factors to consider besides just how they feel are: one-sided or two-sided, foam or springs, adjustable, warranties, pricing and dual-zone.

Dual-sided mattresses can lack a solid foundation, causing the springs to “go” sooner.

“If you look at it this way, will you receive more support from springs which are on a solid object or springs which are up against a pillow top?” said Alan Yates from Mattress City in Olean. “This is why we don’t really sell many dual-sided mattresses. They don’t feel as comfortable for as long because the springs don’t last as long.”

Also consider your weight and your partner’s weight when. choosing mattresses. If you choose an adjustable bed, will you be able to rotate the mattresses or willing to change sides of the bed to make the mattress last longer?

Rotation could also be a clause in your warranty.

PREVENTION Mattress covers are important to use. You can get a waterproof mattress cover for under $100 that will not noticeably be felt under your sheets. For example, Mattress City has a thin, terry cloth-like cover with a display, where a square of the material is secured onto a mason jar and customers can turn the jar upside down to see there is no leakage.

This type of cover is breathable and absorbent but blocks allergens, sweat/liquid, bacteria and dust mites from entering your mattress and from transferring from the mattress to you. Stains, watermarks and moisture damage will void most warranties. Preventative measures, such as a high-quality cover, can help you to avoid damage while still feeling comfortable.

CLEANING Many sites recommend hose-vacuuming, then sprinkling baking soda, letting that sit for an hour, then vacuuming again. This can be an effective way to clean a mattress but there are more ways to make sure the mattress is 100 percent clean.

Hiring a professional is probably the best option to ensure the mattress is clean and warranties will not be voided (make sure you show the cleaner the warranty because each company has different stipulations). Baking soda is a

great maintenance option to pursue once per month if you sweat a lot or go to bed without showering first. Another option is a product called “Diatomaceous Earth.” This must be the non-toxic, food grade version of this product, as you will be sleeping on your mattress. The process reflects that of the baking soda but it has ingredients which repel dust mites even more so than baking soda and is said to clean better and last longer. The price is also affordable.

MAINTENANCE Check your warranty to see when you should be flipping your mattress.

You can flip it more than the minimum. It is recommended to flip it at least once per month, at even intervals, for the first six months to a year to break in the product properly. After that, at least twice a year is good enough for most warranties.

Vacuuming when the sheets are off is also appropriate and will help keep the mattress clean.

Sheets and pillow covers should be washed once per week. Unwashed sheets, especially without a mattress cover, can lead to voided warranties and dirt and bacteria getting into your pores. Making the bed every day can help you feel more organized and can help the sheets stay on the bed properly so the comforter does not have to be washed quite as often.

May

10

2016

Specializing in Distinctive and Affordable Designs Residential • Business • Restaurant Home Staging • Logo Designs Joan Pingitore

716.372.2784 ParagonDesigns1@yahoo.com

11

May

175 N Main Street • Wellsville, NY • 585-593-4444 25 E Main Street • Cuba, NY • 585-968-8444 homestar.nys.mlxchange.com

4004 Highland Ave • Great Valley • B497274 Outstanding well built ranch-updates include exquisite remodeled kitchen/dining combo with high end appliances Rebecca Pettit motivateD seller Lic. R.E. Salesperson & fixtures, new flooring and fresh paint. Cedar walls in attach garage, nice! Large living room with woodburning fireplace. Master bedroom w/ huge closet has nice half bath.

Bedrooms all freshly painted. Carpets clean. Finished dry, walk-out basement w/ storage, private toilet, huge laundry corner, rec area or family room/pool table set up. 1/4 acre pond is a nice addition! 2nd garage w/workshop/nice overhead apartment, 1/2 bath and meat processing center is added bonus! Must See!

2016

May

12

2016

175 N Main Street • Wellsville, NY • 585-593-4444 25 E Main Street • Cuba, NY • 585-968-8444 homestar.nys.mlxchange.com

6943 Howard Rd • Friendship • B496172 Beautiful custom built log home nestled in log home the allegany county hills-100 wooded acres-seclusion at its best! quality builtRebecca Pettit Lic. R.E. Salesperson meticulously maintined w/ attention to every detail- anderson doors and thermopane windows w/ solar sunscreen.great room is impressvie w/ lots of light and amazing views! wrap around large deck w/ awning is a favorite. nicely landscaped with privacy in mind. nice soapstone woodburing central fireplace-full completely fin. basement with airtight gas log stove is a cozy familyroom space.

FIND THE HOME DEVELOPMENT BUSINESS YOU NEED GARAGE DOORS

CABINETRY

BLACKTOP & PAVING

lawn & garden more on page 16

FLOORING

HEATING & PLUMBING

The

homestead pioneer

FE

H ou

se

AT & Hom U e RE

Lovin’ life in log homes

By JoEllen Wankel

Special to House & Home

B

ecoming a homeowner is an exciting time in the life of an adult. Whether you’re looking for more space for a growing family or simply looking to cross an item off your bucket list, finding the right home for you means a lot of decisions.

Today’s homes can be built of any number of materials and can have significantly different results when it comes to the aesthetic appeal. One type of home that has seen increasing popularity is the log home.

In our area alone, a drive down side roads and through different communities can result in the visual enjoyment of several log homes, some weathered by time and the elements and some still shiny from recent construction. Despite the age of the log home, the residence can mean a lot to the homeowner. It can also be a source of challenge when it comes to maintenance and repair.

For Marshburg resident Ken Cordner, his log home was a project he was interested in for a long time and one that started with an opportunity. Cordner explained he had the chance unexpectedly to purchase 103 trees, and he did so.

“That’s how I got started,” he said.

Cordner has lived in his log home for 25 years. The home was constructed

by Cordner himself, from tree cutting to finished product. When asked what living in a log home was like, Cordner noted it was not an easy accomplishment.

“It was a lot of work,” he said. “It was fun though, and it was something that I wanted to do.”

Others opt to move into an already constructed log cabin and have seen the challenges and joys the home can bring long after construction was completed. Erika Fries, the Marketing Teacher at Bradford Area High Schoo,l is one of those.

Fries has been living in her log cabin home for almost three years. When asked what drew her family to the log cabin, Fries noted it was not their original plan.

“Well, initially we weren’t seeking out a log cabin but we happened to be

Photo by Francie Long Log homes, like this one shown along U.S. Route 219 in the Lewis Run area, are growing in popularity.

But while a log cabin can mean a lot to the homeowner, the residence can also be a challenge when it comes to maintenance and repair.

going for a Sunday drive one afternoon and saw the for sale sign outside and had a feeling it would be a great fit for our growing family,” Fries said. “We loved the charm and character of the home.”

When it comes to differences from a home made of other materials, Fries said there are a few that make the choice more appealing.

“One of the huge advantages to living in a log home is that it stays pretty cool inside during sweltering summer months. I also love looking at the exposed rafters and admiring the craftsmanship,” she said.

If given a chance, however, there is one aspect Fries says she might have had handled differently.

“The sounds in the house do tend to carry so I would probably redo the structure so it was more soundproof between the rooms in the house. But the open layout is also a nice advantage as well.”

For Fries and her husband, there have been a few minor bumps in the road to bliss with their log home. Like purchasing any other home, there were areas that needed work. With a log home, however, that can make for a bigger undertaking when it comes to handling repairs.

“We have had to do construction on different parts of the house and that has proved more challenging than with the typical home,” she said. “We had to replace a few of the logs in the back of the house before we were able to move in.

“My husband watched a lot of videos and did lots of research so he was able to do the repairs himself. It’s always interesting when you cut a big giant hole in a house. Then he had to find large pressure treated boards and cut them down to size to fit in the areas that were replaced. He used a planer to give them the curved shape to match the log look and then painted them to match.”

Log homes have a unique visual impact and can provide a welcoming environment to those who reside within. They may bring challenges, but typically they are found to be well worth the extra effort for their care and upkeep.

FIND THE HOME DEVELOPMENT BUSINESS YOU NEED BLACKTOP & PAVING

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May

2016

17

18

Your Hobbies

May

2016

Antiques & Collectibles

“American Pickers” to film in New York this summer Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz, of the television series “American Pickers,” plan to film in New York this summer and are looking for potential places to feature in their show.

“American Pickers” is a documentary series that explores the world of antique “picking” on History. The show follows Wolfe and Fritz, two skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable antiques — from motorcycles, classic cars and bicycles, to one-of-a-kind vintage memorabilia.

As they hit the back roads from coast-to-coast, Wolfe and Fritz continue their mission to recycle America by rescuing forgotten relics and giving them a new lease on life, while learning a thing or two about American history along the way.

Officials from “American Pickers” are looking for leads. They are on the hunt for characters with interesting and unique items. Some of what they look for: vintage bicycles, toys, unusual radios, movie memorabilia, advertising, military items, folk art, early firefighting equipment, vintage musical equipment, automotive items, and clothing.

Residents who have, or know someone who has, a large, private collection can send their name, phone number, location and description of the collection with photos to: americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 855-old-rust.

Photo submitted Frank Fritz (left) and Mike Wolfe, of the television series “American Pickers,” plan to film in New York this summer and are looking for potential places to feature in their show.

May

19

2016

Of Kane

FINK LAW OFFICE Dawn A. Fink Esquire

(Former Law Office of Steve Minor)

Real Estate • Estate & Wills • Family Law Criminal Law • Oil & Gas Lease Negotiation

814-642-5133 219 N. Main St., Port Allegany

3088 Route 219, Kane, PA (814) 778-5300 (Located at Lantz Corners)

One

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Stop in and see our complete line of • Mini-Excavators • Skid Steer Loaders • Utility Vehicles

We also have used equipment for sale.

Not looking to buy...we rent skid steers and mini-excavators with attachments, by the day, week or month.

20

May

Your Hobbies

2016

Reclamation

Going ‘green’ with reclaimed barn wood

By Rich Place

Special to House & Home

Photo by Rich Place Paul Ebert, of Paul’s Green Barn, hand-planes the surface of a table made of douglas fir in his workshop on Grove Street in Delevan.

Photo by Rich Place Paul and Linda Ebert operate Paul’s Green Barn out of their workshop on Groove Street in Delevan. The business specializes in creating furniture out of reclaimed barn wood.

There’s a clever musing that suggests if walls could talk they’d have plenty of stories to tell.

Well the same thought could apply to furniture made by Paul Ebert of Paul’s Green Barn in Delevan.

Ebert crafts tables, chairs, benches and more from reclaimed barn wood, finding a “green” alternative to wood that after decades of use in old barns and other structures has been repurposed for a unique choice in interior decorating.

“The history of the wood makes you feel good,” he said in his shop on Grove Street. He said it’s inspiring “seeing something that was going to get thrown out turned into something that is going to last forever.”

Admittedly not an expert on carpentry, Ebert about eight years ago began tinkering around with making furniture for friends and family. His sister needed a shelving unit to display for wool she sells at area craft shows, and he gave it a try.

Not long after, he had decided to try and sell some pieces of furniture at his mother-in-law’s lawn sale. At first, he found little success but then, in a single day of the sale, he sold more than a dozen pieces.

Soon he found himself taking orders and making furniture for more customers.

“We just kept rolling and rolling,” he said.

Now, three workshops later after the first two were lost to fire, Ebert has a quaint workspace filled with various types of wood. Much of it is reclaimed barn wood or wood from other old buildings.

During a recent interview, he had in the center of his shop one of his current projects: a 12-footlong table made of reclaimed douglas fir beams.

Using antique tools when he can, Ebert had recently just hand-planed the table’s surface.

“You’re looking at probably a 400-year-old tree (that was) harvested 150 years ago,” he said, nothing the pattern of the rings in the wood.

He noted that’s over 500 years “when this table started growing out of the ground.

“You’re talking about Columbus times or before that this tree started growing, lived its life

down south holding up a building, then they took it down and salvaged them and now it could live another couple hundred more years as a table.”

Ebert said working with reclaimed barn wood is much different than working with more common types of wood as it’s denser and the growth rings are much tighter. The wood he uses comes from both locally and outside the area, and despite many barns coming down Ebert said it can be difficult to find good barn wood to use.

“Some of the people who have the barns falling down want to pay you get them out so they can drop their insurance and other people think they’ve got a pot of gold sitting there,” he said.

Ebert estimates that about half the wood in a barn can’t be used, and then from the wood good enough to make that cut, only about half of that will actually be used by the time major imperfections like cracks and large knot holes are removed.

Creating the works of art is a labor of love for Ebert. He said he would prefer to use antique tools for all of his work, but can’t due to time constraints unless a customer is willing to pay for it built in that fashion.

“It’s like a sanctuary,” he said, looking around at his shop. With a laugh, he said it’s often the gathering place for neighbors. “I’m kind of like the bartender without the bar. They all come in and tell me their problems and their ideas, which is cool.”

Sometimes the work can be tedious, he admitted.

“When you get it all done, it’s worth it after all,” he said. “I’ve had a couple people come to tears when they saw it. It’s strange and wonderful at the same time. I get hugs all the time.”

Currently, Ebert makes custom furniture as well as store inventory for two locations — a number he is actively looking to grow. He said he hopes by mid-next year to have 10 stores that feature a wholesale line while keeping the custom work as well and welcomes potential businesses within 200 miles of Delevan.

Paul’s Green Barn, operated by Paul and Linda Ebert, can be found online at retimbered. com and by searching “Paul’s Green Barn” on Facebook. The business can be reached by phone at (716) 492-3921.

May

Your Finances

21

2016

Realtors

Submitted photo Holiday Valley Realty recently moved into the former Burger King on Route 219, right across the street from Holiday Valley Resort.

Holiday Valley Realty finds new home Not only does Ellicottville have a variety of things to do year-round, but those who visit have a variety of options available for lodging.

Some rent, some time-share, some stay and some live, and Holiday Valley Realty Company, Property Sales, Rentals and Management, Inc. has recently adapted to the growing demand of rentals and property sales.

After Burger King closed its doors on May 1, 2014, a suitable tenant was needed for the prime location. Holiday Valley, which has been expanding and renovating sporadically for the past half century, concluded this location to be more convenient, as it is easier for customers to find (it’s right across from the resort entrance), has four times the amount of parking as its previous location and offered much more office space to accommodate the growing demand of rentals and sales.

This project commenced by performing extensive renovations to morph the site from a fast food restaurant to an attractive, comfortable business atmosphere. Clark Patterson Lee of Olean was hired to consult on architectural work while Dana John Contracting of Great Valley and Mazany Contract Interiors of Jamestown performed the renovations and necessary upgrades.

Outbuildings were removed and the entire interior was transformed; for a time, the building consisted of studs leading to the exterior walls. Contractors replaced insulation and drywall, then added two private offices, a conference room, storage, bathrooms and a reception area. However, one

major feature remained in the building: the drive-thru window.

The drive-thru window was a clever feature for a rental management office, as the harsh winters can include subzero temperatures, snow, rain and sleet. Drive-thru check-ins offer tenants to pick up their keys and even purchase lift tickets without having to get out of their cars, in hopes to provide excellent customer service and quicken the check-in process.

The new realty and rental office opened its doors March 17. Joany Klopp Bund, the Holiday Valley Realty GRI, Associate Broker Sales Manager, Rental Manager, Janice Tinnerman both agreed.

In a joint statement, they said, “We love this new location, it is so convenient and easy for customers to find. When check-in is easy, the guests’ vacation starts off on the right foot. We’ve already received more walk-ins and although it is too early to tell, we think that will result in more sales, too.”

The branch realty office in the Tamarack Club remains open to accommodate Tamarack rentals, timeshares and sales.

Tara Bowen, the Tamarack Owner Services Manager and Licensed Sales Agent, offers rentals and both sales and every-fifth-week timeshares, of which many local residents have taken advantage. Owners can join RCI Vacation Exchange, making it possible to exchange their week at Tamarack for other RCI properties that are located all over the world.

22

May

&

2016

House

w

Home contest

Before

Before

Before

After

After

After

1.

Chris Wolcott Bradford, PA

2.

Dave and Kristen Green

Bradford, PA

and Terry Fischer 3. Lorrie Franklinville, NY

Before

Before

Before

After

After

After

4.

Sally Costik Bradford, PA

5.

Lloyd Handley Olean, NY

6.

Bob and Nancy Ezzolo

Bradford, PA

May

2016

23

24

Your Finances

May

2016

Realtors

Pepper and Crandall merges with Real Estate Pros

Photo by Kate Day Sager Mary Pepper of Pepper and Crandall Co. in Olean stands with Kenneth Bailey of Real Estate Pros & More at 401 W. State St., where the companies have merged into a single team.

By Kate Day Sager Special to House & Home

Ken Crandall and Bert Pepper first established Pepper and Crandall Co. in 1960, moving their former operations from the Masonic Lodge at North Union Street to 401 W. State St. After 56 years of selling real estate in the community, the longtime company has merged with Real Estate Pros & More, operated by broker owner Kenneth Bailey. The new team will operate out of 401 W. State St. Mary Pepper, associate broker of Pepper and Crandall, said the company merged last week with Real Estate Pros, formerly of Portville, to expand on its growth and service in the area.

After Bert Pepper and Ken Crandall retired in the early 1970s, Bert Pepper’s son, Ray, acquired the business, according to. Mary Pepper.

Mary Pepper said she began working for the the company in 1983 after she married Ray Pepper. A former supervisor in the social services field, she met Ray Pepper in 1982 after she bought a house from his company — and he began bringing flowers to her.

After Ray Pepper died in 2006, Mary Pepper took over the company.

Bailey said he opened his real estate company in Portville in 2008

after purchasing it from Ray Pepper’s son, Randy Pepper. Bailey changed the name to Real Estate Pros. in 2012.

“We’re going to keep the identity of both companies going,” Bailey remarked.

The company’s agents are licensed in Cattaraugus and Allegany counties in New York state as well as McKean and Potter counties in Pennsylvania. The newly combined office has 13 agents who sell residential and commercial property, vacant land, camps, cabins and commercial and residential leases. Appraisals, auctions and first-time homebuyer programs are also handled by the company.

In addition, the company has an Ellicottville Real Estate Pros office operated by Tom Fenner. The company is also a member of the Multiple Listing Service for the surrounding region and beyond.

“We also have an agent who does timber, so he’s knowledgable on land values and timber values,” Bailey added.

Mary Pepper said she hopes to retire soon to spend more time with her seven grandchildren, one great-grandchild and one on the way.

For more information, contact the company at 372-7100 or, in Portville, call 933-7777.

May

25

2016

RESIDENTIAL GENERATORS

GENERATOR RENTALS

COMMERCIAL GENERATORS

TRAILER MOUNT GENERATORS

26

May

2016

NY SCHOOL DISTRICTS Cattaraugus County Allegany-Limestone Central School District 3131 Five Mile Road Allegany, NY 14706 716-375-6600 Cattaraugus-Little Valley Central School District 207 Rock City Street Little Valley, NY 14755 716-938-9155 Ellicottville Central School District 5873 Route 219 Ellicottville, NY 14731 716-699-2368 Franklinville Central School District 31 North Main Street Franklinville, NY 14737 716-676-8029 Gowanda Central School District 10674 Prospect Street Gowanda, NY 14070 716-532-3325 Hinsdale Central School District 3701 Main Street Hinsdale, NY 14743 716-557-2227

Olean City School District 410 West Sullivan Street Olean, NY 14760 716-375-8018 Portville Central School District 500 Elm Street Portville, NY 14770 716-933-7141 Randolph Central School District 18 Main Street Randolph, NY 14772 716-358-6161 Salamanca City School District 50 Iroquois Drive Salamanca, NY 14779 716-945-2403 Southern Tier Catholic School and Archbishop Walsh Academy 208 North 24th Street Olean NY 14760 716.372.8122 West Valley Central School District 5359 School Street West Valley, NY 14171 716-942-3293

Yorkshire-Pioneer Central School District 12125 County Line Road Yorkshire, NY 14173 716-492-9304

Cuba-Rushford Central School District 5476 Route 305 Cuba, NY 14727 585-968-1556

Allegany County

Fillmore Central School District 104 Main Street Fillmore, NY 14735 585-567-2251

Alfred-Almond Central School District 6795 Route 21 Almond, NY 14804 607-276-2981 Andover Central School District 31-35 Elm Street Andover, NY 14806 607-478-8491 Belfast Central School District 1 King Street Belfast, NY 14711 585-365-9940 Bolivar-Richburg Central School District 100 School Street Bolivar, NY 14715 585-928-2561 Canaseraga Central School District 4-8 Main Street Canaseraga, NY 14822 607-545-6421

Friendship Central School District 46 West Main Street Friendship, NY 14739 716-973-3534 Genesee Valley Central School District 1 Jaguar Dr Belmont, NY 14813 585-268-7900 Scio Central School District 3968 Washington Street Scio, NY 14880 585-593-5510 Wellsville Central School District 126 West State Street Wellsville, NY 14895 585-596-2170 Whitesville Central School District 692 Main Street Whitesville, NY 14897 607-356-3301

PA SCHOOL DISTRICTS McKean County, Pa.

Potter County, Pa.

Bradford Area School District 150 Lorana Ave. P.O. Box 375 Bradford, Pa. 16701 | 814-362-3841

Austin Area School District 138 Costello Ave. Austin, Pa. 16720 (814) 647-8603

Otto-Eldred School District 143 R.L. Sweitzer Drive Duke Center, Pa. 16729 814-817-1380

Coudersport Area School District 698 Dwight St. Coudersport, Pa. 16915 814-274-9480

Smethport Area School District 414 S. Mechanic St. Smethport, Pa. 16749-1522 814-887-5543

Northern Potter School District 745 Northern Potter Road Ulysses, Pa. 16948 814-848-7506

Kane Area School District 400 W. Hemlock Ave. Kane, Pa. 16735 814-837-9570 Port Allegany School District 87 Clyde Lynch Drive Port Allegany, Pa. 16743 814-642-2590

Oswayo Valley Area School District 277 Oswayo St. Shinglehouse, Pa. 16748 814-597-7175

Cameron County, Pa. Cameron County School District 601 Woodland Ave. Emporium, Pa. 15834 814-486-4000

May

27

2016

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MLS# B498507 4BR/1.5BA $155,000 Darcy Branch, Lic. R.E. Salesperson Cell: 716-397-9142

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MLS# B498413 4BR/3BA $189,000 Rob Mercier, Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker Cell: 716-676-9940

MLS# B498412 4BR/3BA $219,900 Maureen Batesky, Lic. R.E. Salesperson Cell: 716-904-3789

MLS# B498354 3BR/2BA $115,000 Rob Mercier, Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker Cell: 716-676-9940

MLS# B497828 3BR/2BA $149,000 Rob Mercier, Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker Cell: 716-676-9940

MLS# B498591 3 apartments $45,000 Darcy Branch, Lic. R.E. Salesperson Cell: 716-397-9142

16 Goss Ave, Portville

9361 Older Hill Rd, Farmersville

3681 Karl Rd, Allegany

6687 Snyder Rd, Lyndon

14 Mill Street, Franklinville

MLS# B497612 3BR/1BA $55,000 Darcy Branch, Lic. R.E. Salesperson Cell: 716-397-9142

MLS# B497380 5BR/2.5BA $98,600 Rob Mercier, Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker Cell: 716-676-9940

MLS# B497250 4BR/2.5BA $199,900 Maureen Batesky, Lic. R.E. Salesperson Cell: 716-904-3789

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8534 Route 98, Farmersville

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MLS# B495945 4BR/1BA $79,900 Rob Mercier, Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker Cell: 716-676-9940

MLS# B495723 3BR/1BA $65,000 Rob Mercier, Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker Cell: 716-676-9940

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MLS# B495482 2BR/2.5BA $89,900 Rob Mercier, Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker Cell: 716-676-9940