APRIL
29 2022
BY BILL PEGLOWSKI GOWANDA — The Gowanda Varsity baseball team played host to Jamestown on April 20. After a scoreless first inning, Gowanda pitcher John Ondus piled up three straight strikeouts in the top of the second. The Gowanda offense got going in the bottom of that inning. John Smuda was walked to lead things off. He was thrown out at second base as Tyler Smith singled. Alex Pachucinski was then also walked. After a second out was recorded, Gavin Phillips doubled scoring both Smith and Pachucinski. Phillips scored on a Blake Herman hit that was misplayed in the outfield. With Gowanda up 3-0 after two innings, there would be no further scoring in the game. Ondus pitched 5 innings for Gowanda, registering 10 strikeouts. Cole Herman and John Smuda each pitched for an inning in relief recording one strikeout each. The Olean baseball team came to Gowanda on April 22. Gowanda held Olean scoreless in the top of the first inning with a double play early and throwing out a runner trying to steal second base to move into the bottom of the inning. Gavin Phillips led off for Gowanda with a hit just inside the first base line that a diving Olean fielder missed by inches. He would go on to score on a John Ondus single. The score of 1-0 would hold until the third inning. The Olean batters were retired in order in the top of the inning with three strikeouts. In the bottom of the third, Ondus and Maddox Browning both singled and, eventually, scored for Gowanda. In the fourth inning, the lead Olean batter was walked only to be
Gowanda Sports Report thrown out going to second base as the next batter singled. Three straight walks followed, scoring an Olean run and prompting a change of pitcher for Gowanda. Two more Olean runs scored on a double before a final pair of strikeouts were registered. Gowanda went down in order to end the inning with the score tied at 3-3. Olean did not score again while Gowanda added a run in the fifth inning and two in the third. Phillips pitched into the first 3 innings for Gowanda allowing one hit and striking out four. He also had a double and scored two runs. Smuda pitched from the third inning on, striking out three and allowing two hits. Ondus had a single and two RBIs. — The Gowanda Varsity softball team hosted Randolph on April 21. After two scoreless innings, Randolph scored a single run in the top of the third inning. In the bottom of the inning, Meredith Valone led off for Gowanda and was walked. Two strikeouts later, an Addison Kota home run took the score to 2-1 in favor of Gowanda. No runs were scored in the fourth inning. The fifth inning featured a Randolph solo home run countered with a Gowanda run by Kailyn Farner, who was running the bases for Ella Luther who had been walked. The Gowanda lead held until the seventh inning when Randolph strung together three runs. Gowanda was unable to answer back, leaving Randolph with a 5-3 win. The softball team hosted Pine Valley for an evening game April 23. Gowanda held Pine Valley scoreless in the first inning with the last out being registered against a runner trying to reach home
Photo by Bill Peglowski
Photo by Bill Peglowski John Smuda coming in for a landing at home plate just ahead of the income throw. He scored the 6th and final Gowanda run against Olean.
plate. Gowanda lead batter Cameron Nagel singled. Lily Bobseine followed with an RBI triple. Bobseine scored as Addison Kota was thrown out at first base. With the score 2-0, Gowanda added three runs in the second inning and two in the third, taking the score to 7-0. In the fifth, after Holland Browning and Ella Luther were both walked and Meredith Valone was hit by a pitch, Jada Geiger and Cianna Hidalgo both singled. Kailyn Farner blasted a 3 RBI double. With the score 12-0, a possible early end to the game was avoided with Pine Valley’s best inning of the game. A three-run rally took the score to 12-3. While Gowanda answered with two runs in the bottom of the inning, that was still one short of a 12-run lead that would have ended the game. Pine Valley was handed three straight fly outs in the sixth inning. The last of those was made by the Gowanda right fielder who made a diving catch securing
the ball just inches above the turf. Gowanda again failed to add the game ending run in the bottom of the inning taking things to a final seventh. Pine Valley managed only a pair of runs in the inning leaving the final score at 14-5. Leading the way for Gowanda was Bobseine with a triple, a double, two runs and an RBI. Geiger added a triple, a single, two runs and an RBI. Also with two runs were Nagel, Valone and Browning. — The Gowanda Varsity girls team hosted Niagara Wheatfield for a non-league game April 21. Gowanda got off to a fast start as Chloe Luther won the opening draw and scored 12 seconds into the game. The Gowanda lead did not last long as Niagara Wheatfield tied things up 11 seconds later. Five minutes into the game, Gowanda was in a 6-1 hole that grew to 12-2 with four minutes left in the half. With 2:49 showing on the clock, Lily Scanlan scored to start a late Gowanda
Lily Bobseine (33) heads for home to score one of two runs against Pine Valley. She had a triple and a double in the game.
three-goal streak. Starting the second half up 12-5, Niagara Wheatfield controlled the first 10 minutes of the second half taking their advantage to 17-5 before Luther scored again for Gowanda. Aurora Stevens scored with five minutes left in the game tightening the score to 17-7. One last Niagara Wheatfield goal brought the game to an 18-7 final. Luther totaled 5 goals for Gowanda. On April 22, the girls lacrosse team traveled to Williamsville East. Williamsville pulled into a 7-2 lead in the first half. A very similar second half yielded a 15-5 final score. Chloe Luther, Lily Scanlan, Autumn Nephew, Rhianna Bibeau and Aurora Stevens each scored once for Gowanda. Ke’Ya Stevens was credited with an assist. — The Gowanda boys and girls track teams saw their first competition of the year April 22 at the Dunkirk Invitational. In a field of 19 schools, Gowanda’s small,
rebuilding teams finished behind several schools, but still close to both Silver Creek and Springville. Two noteworthy Gowanda efforts came from Dylan Harbison (4th in 110M Hurdles, 19.92) and Noah Vogtli (6th in Long Jump, 18-02.25). For the Gowanda girls, Crissa Scanlan was third in Discus Throw (80-08) and sixth in Shot Put (27-01.00). SCOREBOARD Baseball Wednesday, April 20 -Gowanda 3, Jamestown 0 -Silver Creek 6, Salamanca 4 Friday, April 22 -Gowanda 6, Olean 3 -Franklinville 6, Silver Creek 4
Gowanda Sports continued on pg 4
ERIE CATTARAUGUS CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY COMMUNITY SOURCE
2
APRIL 29, 2022
t C m a t C r 2 s a t P i P d t p
w 4 v d
THE SPORTSMAN IS BACK
Welcome Spring 2022, Sporty’s is preparing for Summer 2022. We will soon be open 7 days a week up from 6. Hiring All Posistions. Apply in person during hours of operation.
Monday 5/2
Tuesday 5/3
Meatloaf with Mashed
Thursday 5/5
.75 Cent
Potatoes & Veggies
Chicken Spinach Alfredo Pasta
Wing Night
$10.99
Hospitality Night: To all
$10.99
(Unfortunately the Surcharge employees of the service industry Still is in Effect. Dine-In Only) (waiters, bartenders, nurses, cooks, chefs, dishwashers, hotel Wednesday 5/4: employees, ect) $2.50 BAR OPEN domestics beers and well drinks, $3.00 shots of Crown royal (The Kitchen Closed official whiskey of Sunset Bay) and .85 cent wings. $2.50 Coors Lite Hours of Operation 4pm-Close
FRIDAY 5/6 FISH FRY Join Us For Our Weekly
FISH FRY Special with Choice of Sides
Only $11.99
Hours of Operation 4pm-Close
Hours of Operation 4pm-Close
Saturday 5/7
Sunday 5/8
Derby Day
Food & Drink Specials Best Ladies Derby Hat Contest No Darts This Week
Anderson-Lee Library to Host Local Author Join us for a talk from local author Isaiah Rashad II, as he discusses his new book “Homicide of a Rat” and his life; first hand experiences with gang life, soldier life and life as a cop. From the book’s description, “What is right and what is wrong? In this modern society of uncertainty these questions are answered through the real-life stories
of murder, deception and betrayal from the view of a gang member, United States Army Veteran, and Police Officer. And you may just discover that what you believe to be wrong, may just be right.” Isaiah will not only share his experiences, he will discuss the valuable lessons learned, what they mean for the world and what they might mean for
12872 Allegany Rd, Sunset Bay, NY
you. This event is free, engaging and thoughtprovoking – we look forward to seeing you on May 12 at 6pm at AndersonLee Library, 43 Main Street, Silver Creek. For more information or to register call 716-934-3468, or visit w w w.andersonleelibrar y. org
Honey Garlic Chicken with Veggies & Rice
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716-951-3229
Just in Time for
Mother’s Day Sunday, May 8th 9th
Sale May25th 1st Through May 7th 15 Sale April Through May
LAMPS
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Buy 1, Get 1 50% OFF
DOUBLE UP FOOD BUCKS RECEIVES SUPPORT FROM NEW YORK STATE
In-Stock merchandise only. Prior sales excluded. 50% off of equal or lesser value.
$2 Million allocated in the 2023 Budget for healthy food incentive program
BUFFALO, NY — Field & Fork Network and the American Heart Association are pleased to announce, for the first time in the program’s history, its inclusion in the New York State Budget. Double Up Food Bucks NY received bipartisan support for the $2 Million allocation; this funding will allow the statewide program to expand services to approximately 100,000 SNAP recipients and an opportunity to leverage an additional $2Million in federal funding, going directly to New York farmers, small businesses, and local econo mies. Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB) is a national nutrition incentive program operated by the Field & Fork Network, that matches SNAP eligible purchases $1 for $1, up to $20 per day, to purchase local fruits and vegetables. This state funding is an investment in health because it makes fresh produce more accessible. It’s an investment in farmers because they can sell more of the goods they grow. And it’s an investment in families so they, and their communities, can thrive. Since 2014, DUFB NY has served over 32,000 SNAP households,
across 29 countries, generating over $4.8 Million in healthy food sales. “We’re thankful for the state’s support and lucky to have lawmakers who champion innovative ways to make a real difference for people in their districts,” said Lisa French, Executive Director of Field & Fork Network. “The state funding will allow us to bring an additional $4M into the state, expand into underserved communities and operate in more year-round locations.” “The American Heart Association has been proud to assist Field & Fork Network with new locations, community outreach and education,” said Brianna Durkee, New York State Government Relations Director for the American Heart Association. ‘This program will help reduce nutrition insecurity and disparities in finding healthy food across the state. We are grateful to all the participants in the program and are glad that Gov. Hochul and state legislators are making this investment in the health of all New Yorkers.” Since 2014, Double Up Food Bucks NY has been supported by federal funding through the USDA’s
Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program, with an equal match coming from corporate and private funders across the state. Over the last two years, as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic, program participation skyrocketed. Supply chains were strained, food costs increased, and food insecurity reached an alltime high. Double Up became a necessary resource to help people stretch their food budget. To meet the needs of New Yorkers, state support was required. “I was proud to be part of the bi-partisan effort to champion Double Up Food Bucks NY in the state budget. This state support will leverage $2 million in federal funding so SNAP recipients can purchase healthy food and boost local economies. As Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I am always looking for opportunities to put local produce on the tables of New Yorkers. Double Up Food Bucks does that. It ensures families in need have access to fresh, locally grown fruit and vegetables while supporting our farmers and small businesses,” said Sen. George M. Borrello, 57th Senate District
Lighting Center
10378 Bennett Road (Rt. 60), Fredonia 716-672-4365 Monday - Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
PH 716-965-2941 FAX 716-965-2913
39 Main Street, Forestville, NY 14062
MONUMENTS
• Cemetery • Lettering • Mausoleums • Indoor & Outdoor Displays MONUMENT BUILDERS
MEMBER
Mark L. Woolley
ERIE CATTARAUGUS CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY COMMUNITY SOURCE
APRIL 29, 2022
4-H Youth Speak Up at Public Presentation Day Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County’s 4-H Youth Development Program recently held a two-day Public Presentation contest at Jamestown Community College on February 26th and March 5th, 2022. Over 30 youth ages 5-18 stepped up to the challenge and gave presentations on topics ranging from The Pony Express and BMX Racing to the life of P.T. Barnum. Presentation styles included demonstration, illustrated talk, speech, dramatic interpretation, and recitation. Public speaking aligns with the New York State 4-H Youth Development values that promote the development of skills that
help young people succeed in higher education, their chosen career path, and as members of their families and communities. Teams of volunteer evaluators evaluate youth. After each presentation youth meet with their evaluators and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of their presentation. Youth who gave exceptional presentations were selected to participate at the Western District Public Presentation Day contest held at the Revive Wesleyan Church in Hamburg, NY on March 26th. This year Mackenzy Graziano, Garrett Lesch and Grace Meyer were selected to participate at the Western District level with Abigail
Carlberg and Tyler Crowell serving as alternates. All youth representing Chautauqua County received gold awards, the highest award for presenters. Mackenzy Graziano was one of three 4-Hers in the District to get a perfect score on her illustrated talk! All three youth are eligible to move onto experiences and competitions with other 4-Hers from the state who have also excelled in public speaking. Youth have other opportunities to give presentations at their club and animal projects as well as at the 4-H Youth Building at the Chautauqua County Fair. The 4-H Youth Devel-
opment Program is one of many programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County (CCE-Chautauqua). CCE-Chautauqua is a community based educational organization, affiliated with Cornell University, Chautauqua County Government, the NYS SUNY system, and the federal government through the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. For more information, call 716-6649502 or visit our website at www.cce.cornell.edu/chautauqua. Cornell University Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities
HALF OF NYS HEALTHCARE WORKERS REPORT COVID-19 HAD ‘NO NOTICEABLE CHANGE’ ON SMOKING/VAPING Survey conducted by New York State Smokers’ Quitline measured communication preferences and interest in tobacco cessation topics
BUFFALO, NY — A recent survey of New York State-licensed healthcare professionals found half believed the COVID-19 pandemic effected “no noticeable change” on their patients who use tobacco
or vape products. The survey, conducted by the New York State Smokers’ Quitline (Quitline), also found approximately a third of healthcare professionals (34.2 percent) believed the COVID-19 pandemic made
these patients more unwilling to make a quit-attempt due to stress or other concerns. The Quitline’s Marketing & Outreach Team will discuss the survey results and its implications in-depth during an upcoming public webinar on Tuesday, April 26 at 11 a.m. More details and registration is available at https://nysmokefree.com/newsroom. As part of its ongoing efforts to determine not only what kinds of tobacco cessation resources to create but also effective dissemination, the Quitline created the New York State Healthcare Professional Communication Preferences Survey & administered it throughout August and September of 2021. Altogether, 1,844 respondents completed the survey and comprised a variety of fields, including physicians/medicine, nursing, respiratory therapy, social work, dentistry, mental health and pharmacy. While very few healthcare professionals (12.7 percent) reported the COVID-19 pandemic as being a catalyst for patients to make a quit-attempt, more than two-thirds of those particular survey respondents (67.9 percent) stated they were focusing more on tobacco dependence treatment
due to the “heightened importance of lung health.” In addition to questions about the COVID-19 pandemic, the Quitline included specific questions in 2021 about assisting priority populations. Nearly half of respondents (41.8 percent) reported “those who experience psychological distress” as the most challenging to treat for tobacco dependence. The Quitline conducted similar surveys in 2018 and 2019, and included previous questions in 2021 to monitor trends. The upcoming webinar will review these trends, such as preferred communication methods and top tobacco cessation topics of interest. The survey provides the Quitline’s Marketing & Outreach Team valuable insight to reshape its efforts in meaningful ways. For example, as a result of the 2019 survey, the Quitline increased its efforts to provide webinars, offer tobacco treatment training for primary care clinics and engage dentists with content specific to their field. Anecdotal responses to the 2021 survey show two topics of current particular concern among healthcare professionals: vaping among young adults and navigating increased stress among patients.
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Annual Rummage & Bake Sale AM Saturday, Friday, 10to April 29th 4 PM April 30th
At The Leon Fire Hall
Saturday at Noon
Bag Sale
Hosted by Leon Firemen’s Auxiliary
WinNer of the
Mary, Age 6
ERIE CATTARAUGUS CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY COMMUNITY SOURCE
4
APRIL 29, 2022
Did You Know? When planning spring landscapes, homeowners should always group plants with similar water needs together. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, grouping plants with similar water needs together helps to conserve water,
which can be an especially useful strategy if or when drought restrictions go into effect in summer. Homeowners also can embrace additional strategies to landscape with water conservation in mind. For example, aerating soil helps
to improve water flow to plants’ roots and reduces water runoff, helping to ensure that plants get all of the water they need while reducing the likelihood that homeowners will have to use excessive amounts of water to keep plants
healthy. In addition, using low-water-using types of grass can help homeowners who live in areas prone to drought conserve water while still maintaining lush, green lawns.
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Gowanda Sports -East Aurora 21, Girls Lacrosse Springville 3 Monday, April 18 Saturday, April 23 -Sweet Home 6, -Silver Creek 15, Ellicott- Springville 2 Track & Field ville 7 Wednesday, April 20 Friday, April 22 – -Southwestern 8, -Lake Shore 15, Lockport Dunkirk Invitational Springville 1 2 Boys -Springville 9, Depew 8 1st: St. Francis (Buffalo) Softball Thursday, April 21 119 Wednesday, April 20 -Niagara Wheatfield 18, 11th: Springville 26 -Silver Creek 11, Dunkirk Gowanda 7 12th: Gowanda 8 2 -Williamsville South 17, 13th: Silver Creek 5 Thursday, April 21 Lake Shore 11 15th: Eden 1 -Randolph 5, Gowanda 3 Friday, April 22 Saturday, April 23 -Williamsville East 15, Girls -Gowanda 14, Pine Valley Gowanda 5 1st: East Aurora 166.5 5 -West Seneca West 21, 11th: Silver Creek 14.0 -Silver Crek 15, Brocton 4 Lake Shore 12 13th: Gowanda 9.0 -Cheektowaga 13, -Salamanca 15, Springville 1 Springville 1 14th: Springville 6.50 16th: Maryvale 1
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS For Your Senior Housing Needs
Arkwright Summit Cemetery Association Annual Meeting Arkwright Summit Cemetery Association will hold its annual meeting at 7 pm on May 18th at the James
Oh, my goodness-It is May-hopefully snow is all over We wish ALL MOTHERS OUT THERE -HAPPY MOTHERS DAY. On Monday we will be doing Crafts
Dakota R. Coles, F.N.P.
Caring, Experienced, Professional Providers of Comprehensive Obstetrical and Gynecological Care Colposcopy, Contraception, Laser, Menopause, Breast Disease, Endometriosis, Laparascopic Procedures
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Wentland Monuments 10634 Main St., North Collins
337-2632 716-337-2632
Prince residence, 2070 contact 716-467-0886. Route 83, Forestville, NY 14062. All interested are welcome. For information,
Concord Senior Center News
430 Main Street, Dunkirk, NY
At Wentland Monuments, We Care!
(Starting at $15 each, 2 for $25)
A R O U N D TO W N
continued from pg 1
Lincoln Arms Housing
Vegetable Plants, Flowers, Evergreens, Hanging Baskets
Partner with Catholic Medical Partners and Mercy Hospital & Partnering with Oishei Childrenʼs Hospital
FORESTVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL
has the following anticipated vacancy:
SUPPORT STAFF
One (1) Part Time Bus Driver 10-month position Variable 4.0 hours per day am/pm Will Pay to Train Send completed application found online at www.forestville.com by April 29, 2022 to: Renee Garrett, Superintendent Forestville Central School 12 Water Street Forestville, NY 14062
Forestville Central School is an equal opportunity employer.
w/Caroline. Check it out on our Facebook page. On Tuesday we will be welcoming our new crafting group @10. If you have a project you have started & never finished. Or just to do a craft with someone to talk to -this is the group for you. Also, on Tuesday we will be having Brooks & Brooks Law Firm from Salamanca from 3:00-5:00. They will be here to talk about Elder Law. Any questions you have about wills-real estate planning & just anything you want to know about. On Wednesday we will be having our Fabolous Mother’s Day Lunch -all mothers will receive a surprise. That
day is also our shopping day with Forever-N. So, stop in & do some shopping. From 12:30-2:00. We also wish to thank everyone that helped with our Kathy Memorial Fund. University Express will be starting on Thursday May 5. It is Backyard Wildlife given by Nicole Klimowicz -she is a park ranger working with birds of prey & waterfowls. So, call to reserve your spot. We are here to help you with all your senior needs. Call 592-2764-592-2768—email concord2017sc@gmail, com Remember to check our Facebook page—the concord senior center
ERIE CATTARAUGUS CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY COMMUNITY SOURCE
APRIL 29, 2022
5
Stay safe when working in the yard this spring and summer
5 OUTDOOR PROJECTS THAT ADD VALUE
A day spent working in the yard is an ideal way to pass the time on spring and summer afternoons. A pristine landscape can add value to a property and instill pride in homeowners who put a lot of thought and effort into their lawns and gardens. A sun-soaked day can make it easy to overlook potential threats when working in a lawn or garden. But safety precautions are of the utmost necessity when working in the yard, where the risk for serious injury is considerable. For example, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that, in 2016, more than 90,000 patients, including nearly 5,000 children, were treated in hospital emergency rooms for lawn mower-related injuries. Lawn- and garden-related injuries can be prevented without going to great lengths. • Know your terrain before mowing. Knowing the terrain in your own
yard can reduce the risk for accident or injury. This can be especially important when mowing the lawn with a riding mower. Adhere to manufacturers’ recommendations regarding inclines to reduce tip-over accidents that can pin riders beneath the mower. Study hilly areas of the yard prior to mowing so you know which areas are safe to mow with a riding mower and which areas are best mowed with a walk-behind mower. For greater control when using a walk-behind mower on an incline, mow parallel to the slope. • Apply and reapply sunscreen. Sunburns may not require trips to the emergency room, but they can still be serious. In fact, the Skin Cancer Foundation notes that sunburn is a leading cause in the majority of cases of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer. The SCF recommends applying sunscreen 30 minutes
before going outside to allow the sunscreen to bond to your skin. Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, and more often if you’re sweating excessively. The SCF recommends broad spectrum sunscreens, which protect the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Though a product with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 is acceptable when walking the dog or driving to work, the SCF advises using a product with an SPF of 30 or higher when engaging in extended outdoor activities like gardening or mowing. • Employ the buddy system. Use the buddy system when pruning tall trees or performing any tasks that require a ladder. The Orthopedic Institute of Pennsylvania reports that more than 164,000 people are injured each year falling off a ladder. Ask a significant other or neighbor to hold the ladder in place while you climb up to reduce your risk of falling. If cutting large branches, cut them
piecemeal to reduce the risk of being injured by heavy falling branches. • Inspect the property for insect hives. The OIP notes that the most common insect stings in spring come from bees, wasps and hornets. Homeowners who are not careful can inadvertently come across hives when doing spring cleanup, making them vulnerable to bites and stings. That can be very dangerous for anyone, and especially so for people with a history of allergic reactions to insect bites or stings. Inspect areas where you’ll be working to make sure insects haven’t put down roots in your property. If you discover any hives and are hesitant to remove them on your own, contact a local landscaping firm. Lawn and garden accidents and injuries can be serious. Thankfully, accidents and injuries are easily prevented when homeowners take a few simple safety precautions while tending to their lawns and gardens.
Exterior renovations can enhance the appearance of a property and make it more enjoyable for homeowners. Certain renovations have the potential to add value to a home, while others may do the opposite. Learning which one have the largest return on investment can help homeowners select features that will have the most positive impact. Curb appeal goes a long way toward attracting potential buyers. According to the National Association of Realtors, first impressions of a property have a strong influence on buyers. Landscaping and external features can do much to influence such impressions. . • Lawn care program: Investing in a lawn care program that consists of fertilizer and weed control application and can be transferred over to a subsequent home owner is an attractive feature. NAR says such a care program can recover $1,000 in value of the $330 average cost, or a 303 percent ROI. • Low-maintenance lifestyle: When choosing materials for projects, those that offer low-maintenance benefits can be preferential. These include low-maintenance patio materials, composite decking, vinyl fencing, and inorganic mulched beds.
• Fire pit: A fire pit can be used for much of the year. In the spring and summer, the firepit is a great place to congregate to roast marshmallows or sip wine and gaze into the fire. In the fall, the fire pit can make for a cozy retreat. A fire pit that has a gas burner is low-maintenance, and the National Association of Landscape Professionals says that most can recoup about $4,000 of their $6,000 average price tag. • Softscaping: Hardscaping refers to structures like outdoor kitchens or decks. Softscaping involves the living elements of the landscape. Hiring a landscape designer to install trees, shrubs, natural edging, and rock elements can do wonders toward improving the look and value of a home. • Pool or water feature: In certain markets, particularly hot climates, a pool or another water feature is a must-have. However, in other areas where outdoor time is limited, a pool or water feature can actually lower the value of a home. Speaking with a real estate professional can give homeowners an idea of how a pool will fare in a given neighborhood. Outdoor improvements can improve the marketability of a home, as well as enhance its appearance and function.
Check Out These Local Businesses for All Your Spring Home & Garden Needs Did you know? Disinfecting garden tools can help ensure the long-term health of plants and vegetables. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, plant pathogens, including bacteria, fungi and viruses, cause diseases that can damage and even kill plants. These pathogens can be transferred to plants and infect them through bits of soil and plant debris that get stuck on common gardening tools, including shovels and pruners. Pathogens are microscopic and invisible to the naked eye, which is why even tools that appear clean may still contain harmful substances on their surfaces that can prove life-threatening to plants. Disinfecting tools at the appropriate time, such as when the tools are being stored in fall or before using them in spring or after using them to remove infected plants, can prevent the damage caused by invisible
pathogens. Avoid using strictly bleach to disinfect garden tools, as the UME notes that bleach corrodes metal and can therefore render tools that require sharp edges ineffective. A homemade solution that’s nine parts water and one part bleach can be used to effectively clean shovels, spades and rakes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) in concentrations of 70 percent or more can effectively disinfect surfaces for bacteria, fungi and viruses. Such a solution can be used to disinfect hand pruners and other small hand tools. Store-bought cleaners with an active ingredient that is .1 percent alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium saccharinate also can be effective when disinfecting small hand tools as well as small pots and saucers.
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ERIE CATTARAUGUS CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY COMMUNITY SOURCE
APRIL 29, 2022