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Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Aqua Doc Hopping into More Pond Business By Ann Wishart ann@geaugamapleleaf.com
When John and Jeanine Wilson bought a pond management business in 1989, they had a truck, a pump, a boat and a handful of customers. Today, the award-winning Aqua Doc Lake and Pond Management Company — with its corporate headquarters on Mayfield Road in Munson Township — has 65 trucks, more than 6,500 customers in seven states and between 130 and 150 employees, depending on the season. Wilson said he recently added an office with 10 employees in Atlanta, Ga., to his operations in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati and Toledo. He opened the Geauga County office in 2005 and the business has grown fast, sometimes more than 20 percent a year, except for 2009, when the recession caused him to plateau his expansion. “We came out even,” Wilson said, adding in 2010, the company grew by 23 percent. Wilson’s office is an old frame house that has been converted to offices. More than 20 people worked out of the modest building. As Aqua Doc was growing to its current local staff of 65, more space was needed and Wilson bought the old yellow-brick school next door that is now full of offices and busy employees. A garage and warehouse are in use to the south and a 10,000-square-foot office/warehouse is under construction. Now Wilson is one of only a few occupants
ANN WISHART/KMG
John Wilson, owner of Aqua Doc Inc. in Munson Township, has grown the company to about 130 employees and 6,500 customers and is still expanding the property on Mayfield Road.
of the old house. Some residents, the Aqua Doc mascots, laze around in the office across from Wilson’s. “That’s where the frogs hang out,” he said, referring to the green, fuzzy frog heads Wilson and co-workers don for special occasions, such as the North American Lake Management Conference held in Cincinnati, where they wore them as they entered, garnering a round of applause. Between the growth and the fun exists a
deep pool of knowledge and concern for the many lakes, ponds, streams and water gardens scattered across Ohio. Wilson has 45 to 50 aquatic specialists who have been through the training rigors of Aqua Doc U, his name for a six-level program that ensures the company is providing the best service for their clients. The majority of their customers have ponds between a half an acre to 2, Wilson said. His sales team finds the water features
by scanning hundreds of square miles of tax maps available online from every Ohio county auditor. They also get phone calls, usually in the middle of the summer when the algae has taken over. “They say, ‘I’ve got this green stuff all over my pond,’” he said, adding a specialist will set up a free consultation to customize a treatment plan. “Water’s a moving target, Wilson said. He said the same pond may need different treatment at different times, depending on the season, rainfall, runoff from farmed fields, roads and septic systems. “The smaller they are, the more attention they need,” Wilson explained, adding an Aqua Doc specialist will visit every two weeks during the growing season to make sure the pond or lake doesn’t backslide. If temperatures shoot up in the summer, treatment may be needed to keep the water balanced so the algae does not become re-established. “During a heat wave, it can grow like crazy,” Wilson said. “Then we have to go in heavy with product. Two (visits) a month is more environmentally friendly.” He pointed out before and after shots of a pond hanging on his wall. The picture on the left showed a mottled brown and green surface while the “after” shot showed pristine water. “With ongoing management, that pond will never look like the picture on the left again,” Wilson said. See Aqua Doc • Page 3
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Page 3
Avoid a Spring Break This Year But if it Happens, UH Geauga Has Your Back Submitted Spring is on its way and thousands of Northeast Ohioans are looking forward to getting outdoors to enjoy a walk or a run, move some mulch or play a round of golf. Warmer weather, sunshine and longer days make it tempting to get outside and start enjoying the season. But if you have not been physically active and exercising regularly this winter, you will want to take some precautions before jumping into springtime activities, said orthopedic specialists at University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center. They offer the following suggestions to help you stay safe and avoid an injury: • Always stretch and warm up for 10 minutes before exercising, whether it’s running, golf, tennis or any other active sport. • Know the proper way to move, such as how to safely lift heavy gardening supplies or swing a tennis racquet.
• Wear proper footwear to reduce your risk for ankle and knee injuries. This goes for walking and gardening as well as sports. • Know your limits and don’t overdo it. For example, if you’re enjoying the first warm day with your first hike of the season in a Geauga County park, choose an easier, shorter trail than you usually take. • Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water before, during and after activities helps keep your body working smoothly and helps you stay fresh. You’ll be on your game and reduce your risk for injury. • Avoid being a “weekend warrior.” Instead of compressing all of your activity into Saturday and Sunday, try for 20 to 30 minutes every day. Till one flower bed instead of five, or practice your favorite sport instead of playing a full game.
Accidents Happen
Even with the best precautions, injuries and accidents can happen. Broken bones, injuries to the muscles or tendons in the knee,
ANN WISHART/KMG
Construction of a warehouse and offices is underway at Aqua Doc Lake and Pond Management headquarters in Munson Township.
Aqua Doc from page 2
Maintaining an attractive water feature is not cheap, but considering the time and money spent on mowing, fertilizing and tending a lawn, the expense of less than $1,500 per year is comparable, he said. “It costs as much to maintain 1 acre of land as a 1-acre pond,” Wilson said, adding a well-cared-for pond can add value to a site and be much more pleasing to the owner. “A pond is a focal point of any property,” he said. But when it starts to look like a swamp, it is time to take action, Wilson said.
Sometimes that can include dredging out the muck in the bottom, but it can be cheaper to dig a new pond, he said, adding he partners with Gradeworks Inc., of Kirtland, for excavating. Aqua Doc can also help customers landscape their water features. March is not too soon to start thinking about pond care, Wilson said. “If your pond starts to thaw in mid-March, by May, it’s gone from 32 degrees up to 70 degree. Everything happens in six to eight weeks,” Wilson said, adding the “season” is usually April through October. “We like to get out there as soon as we can see the water,” he said. “If we get on it early, it will still look good come June and July.”
strains, sprains and dislocated ankles, hips and elbows are some of the most common injuries UH Geauga orthopedic specialists treat. Typical symptoms of these injuries include pain, swelling and inflammation in the injured area. Unless the problem is a broken bone, many people are tempted to try to “push through” the pain instead of seeking treatment. That approach not only delays the healing process, it actually can lead to further injury of the joint, ligament, muscle or tendon, and doctors do not recommend it.
An Alternative to the ER
The Orthopedic Injury Clinic at UH Geauga offers diagnosis and treatment for strains, sprains, broken bones and any other acute injury to bones, joints, tendons, muscles or ligaments. Conveniently located in the Specialty Clinics at UH Geauga Medical Center, 13207 Ravenna Rd., Chardon, the clinic offers walk-in care and same-day appointments with UH Geauga’s experienced, board-certified orthopedic specialists. The Orthopedic Injury Clinic offers pa-
tients an alternative to the emergency room for high quality care without the inconvenience of a long wait or having to make an additional appointment to see a specialist. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Walk-in patients are welcome and same-day appointments are available by calling 440-925-4257.
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Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, February 28, 2019
It’s a Buyer’s Market and Geauga Savings Bank Can Help Submitted By Troy McMahan According to a new ranking by LendingTree, Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Oklahoma City are the nation’s best cities for first-time homebuyers. Over 41 percent of the buyers surveyed have credit scores under 680 and put less than 15 percent down. These cities have the highest percentage of affordable entry-level homes with lower down payments than national averages. The city’s housing affordability index, which measures the percentage of houses available to a median-income household in the Greater Cleveland area, is 78.4 percent out of 100 percent. In order to be able to afford a new house, the same survey indicates 75 percent of homebuyers would work a second or side job, while 36 percent would consider a roommate or renting a room to help qualify. In short — aspiring homeowners are willing to do more to buy a house than ever before. This is driven, in part, by the fact the average cost of rent was $ 1,065 by year end 2018.
It’s a bad time to be a renter, but a great time to be looking to purchase a home. When it comes to buying a home, the number of bedrooms/bathrooms a house has, the yard and the overall square footage rank as high priorities for most buyers. Location, price and proximity to work and school are top factors as well. National trends indicate over 80 percent of would be homeowners prefer to start searching online as their primary preference. No matter your preferred house-hunting method, perhaps it’s time to jump off the fence and into the market. Mortgage rates have dropped in recent months, making home buying more affordable than it was a year ago. As you get started, ask yourself: How much home can I afford? What kind of mortgage is best for me? Where do I start? Geauga Savings Bank can help you answer all those questions. We are your home town community bank and here to assist you with all your mortgage questions. We are a full-service mortgage lender offering Conventional, FHA/ VA home loans and New Construction Loans. We can customize a mortgage loan just for you.
Breaking the Bottled Water Myths Submitted You see them everywhere... piled high in garbage cans, in the car, along the side of the road and at meetings. Bottled water and the empty bottles left behind. Did you know it is second only to soda in beverage sales in the United States? The average American drinks approximately 24 gallons of bottled water annually and bottled water sales are $10 billion in the U.S. alone. With a cost of 250 to 1,000 times higher than water from the tap, along with shipping and handling, one might ask, “Why?” Those beautiful mountain illustrations on water bottles are often very far from the true source of the water inside. Bottled water sources can be hard to track down as bot-
tled water manufacturers are not required to disclose where the water comes from, or for that matter, what’s in their water. In fact, the best indicator of what kind of water is in the bottles is from the terms used to describe it. Artesian, ground, spring or well water was taken from an underground aquifer and may or may not have been further treated. Purified water often means the water is minimally treated tap water. Seltzer, tonic and sparkling waters, meanwhile, are considered soft drinks and are not regulated as bottled water. But bottled water is often no safer or better tasting than treated tap water. In fact, 25 percent of all bottled water is actually just repackaged tap water. And in one test of more See Water • Page 5
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Thursday, February 28, 2019
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Digital Books & Audio Great for People On the Go Submitted By Ed Worso Want stories without the weight of a bag of books? Check out the digital collection at the Geauga County Public Library. The ease of streaming and downloading materials has been steadily improving over the past decade, and now, a vast storehouse of work from your favorite authors is yours. All you need is an Internet connection, your library card and an account in one of our digital platforms: Overdrive (Libby app) or hoopla. It takes only a few minutes to check out items and enjoy them instantly. Before anyone worries about the staying power of physical books, let me put your minds at ease. Actual books with paper pages aren’t going anywhere. There will always be a market for people who prefer books. But, there are times when digital books are more practical. If you’ve ever listened to an audiobook during a road trip, you’ve already experienced the magic of having a story come to life while you travel. If you have a smartphone or other device, just download your book onto it and enjoy a story by anyone from Stephen King to Toni Morrison. When it’s due, it automatically returns. This means it comes off your device, freeing memory for all your other apps – and to download your next item. No overdues. Commuters who live in Geauga, but work
Water
from page 4 than 1,000 bottles of water, 22 percent of the water tested contained man-made chemicals, bacteria and arsenic. While there is no argument that drinking water is good for the body, digestion, skin and overall good health, isn’t there a better way? Aside from the inconvenience of bottled water, there is the impact on our environment. Discarded water bottles can take 400 to 1,000
CVHS to Hold Herb & Plant Sale
Submitted
Mark your calendars, the Chagrin Valley Herb and Plant Sale will be held May 18, at the Bainbridge Library from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Be prepared to be amazed as you enter. You will hear, “It smells so good in here!” and “Where do I start?” Don’t worry, just enjoy the fragrances of the various herbs knowing Chagrin Valley Herb Society members will be there to help you shop and to answer your questions. The CVHS sale offers several varieties of the basic culinary herbs you won’t find elsewhere. Plus, members’ plants and garden starts will be available for purchase at very reasonable prices. The CVHS is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. With pride, the society accepts the responsibility of maintenance of the gardens at the Bainbridge Library. We promote an interest in the various aspect of herbs — learning, socializing and sharing together. For more information about the group and the spring herb and plant sale, check out the CVHS website, chagrinvalleyherbsociety.org.
in Cleveland or Akron can easily learn about “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up” or how to make the most out of their” 168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You Think.” Or, if a good escape novel fits the bill,” The Girl in the Woods” will fill your commutes with suspense and intrigue. We have heard from dry-wallers and painters who look forward to going to work so they can finish their audiobooks. Wouldn’t it be great to learn and expand your mind while on the job? Digital e-books are another great option. Book lovers (and we know that’s you, dear reader) tend to amass a weighty collection of titles over the years. Your shelves are groaning. Of course, there are special titles that will never leave your home. But, what about all those popular novels you read once? Anytime you consume books quickly or if you don’t want the hassle of leaving your home to find your next titles, all you need to do is open your Libby or hoopla apps and start browsing. You’ll be reading in minutes. Digital books, audiobooks, music, movies and magazines from your library have never been easier to obtain and enjoy. If you have any questions about how to use our digital services, please come to any GCPL Branch. Our staff is ready to help you. Start reading, listening and enjoying! Ed Worso is director of the Geauga County Public Library. years to break down in the environment. The cost effective and less wasteful alternative is to improve your water at home. That way you get the benefits of convenience as well as improved water for all your other needs like bathing, cooking, shampooing and the many other things for which you need water. Water treatment gives the assurance that your water is ready, pure, clean and it will contain far fewer contaminants than most anything else you could choose! Contact Kinetico Water Systems in Newbury today to break your bottled water habit.
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Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Must-Haves for an Amazing Kitchen Remodel MetroCreative Kitchen remodels are among the most popular home renovation projects, whether they consist of swapping out cabinet hardware or doing major demolition. Due to the sheer amount of time families spend in the kitchen, not to mention the number of tasks performed in this space, it is easy to see why Remodeling magazine consistently ranks kitchen renovations as projects that will enable homeowners to recoup a high percentage of their investments. In the magazine’s 2018 “Cost vs. Value” report, midrange major kitchen remodels costing an average of $63,829 recouped 59 percent of that investment. When investing in a kitchen project, it is important to incorporate items that are coveted. • Deep, double sinks: Having a double sink enables you to soak dishes in one side and then wash on the other. It also makes it easy to wash and prep produce for meals. • Kitchen island and bar stools: Even though many meals are enjoyed around the table, there’s something to be said for the convenience of a kitchen island and some well-placed bar stools for quick breakfasts or snacks. • Smart kitchen storage: Work with a contractor to include storage solutions built into cabinetry and the pantry. Slide-out shelving, nooks for a paper towel roll and custom-designed areas to store stand mixers and other necessities can make kitchens more functional. • Outdoor access: If possible, design a kitchen so it is easy to access the backyard via sliding doors. This can make outdoor entertain-
Valuable Renovations
Each year, Remodeling magazine publishes its “Cost vs. Value” report to give homeowners a greater understanding of how much popular home projects will cost across the nation, as well as which renovations will offer the greatest return on investment. According to their research, these projects improved in value between 2017 and 2018 and can be smart choices for homeowners looking to add popular features to their properties. Below are the popular projects and the average cost of the renovations. • Midrange bathroom addition: $44,717 • Midrange bathroom remodel: $19,134 • Midrange deck addition: $10,950 • Midrange entry door replacement (steel): $1,471 • Upscale garage door replacement: $3,470 • Midrange manufactured stone veneer: $8,221 • Midrange minor kitchen remodel: $21,198 • Midrange siding replacement: $15,072 • Midrange universal design bathroom: $16,393 • Upscale window replacement: $15,955 ing or even coffee on the deck much easier. • Under-cabinet lighting: Fixtures installed under cabinets provide both ambient lighting and task lighting. Such lighting makes it easier to see what you’re working on as well, as even well-placed overhead lighting can fail to illuminate dark corners and spots
When investing in a kitchen project, it is important to incorporate items that are coveted.
on the counters. • Convenient warming drawer: This appliance provides backup to the oven. It’s a slide-out drawer that can keep prepared foods out of the way and warm until they are ready to be served. This is particularly handy for holidays and other entertaining.
• Beverage station: Designate one area of the kitchen to beverages, such as coffee and tea. Or make the area an informal bar. This can limit traffic in the kitchen to a single area. Kitchen remodels are exciting to envision, and several choices can make these high-traffic spaces even more coveted.
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Geauga County Maple Leaf
SUBMITTED
You can count on your local team from Jack Stankus Inc. for your heating and cooling needs. Call 440-543-5000 for more information.
Spring is in the Air at Passion for Fashion
Submitted
Everyone is anxious to welcome Spring, which not only means updating or redecorating your homes, tending to your lawns and flower gardens, or trying a sassy new haircut, but also bringing the season into your closets, too. Spring colors range from soft pastels to bold brights, fabrics are lighter with wonderful florals and cheerful prints to choose from. Colorful handbags, shoes and jewelry are a great way to add style and flair. Passion for Fashion Consignment Boutique in Chester Township is ready to help transition you into Spring “beYoutifully.” The store has a collection of the latest fashions from mall brands to luxury designers all under one roof. No more running from store to store frazzled and stressed out. When you shop at Passion for Fashion, the friendly stylists will help you select the clothing that works for you – because they want you to leave feeling and looking fabulous. The staff is often asked if Passion for Fashion really is a consignment shop be-
cause its collection of gently-loved and many new-with-tags items are the best of the best. There is truly something for everyone as the store carries sizes from 0 Petite to Women’s 3X, shoes, handbags and jewelry. And all at a fraction of their retail prices. You can carry your treasures home in your Passion for Fashion reusable tote. The store also carries Ruby Ribbon Shapewear along with local artisan soaps and hand-made greeting cards. Passion for Fashion is located at 12767 Chillicothe Road and is open Mondays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are open one Sunday per month from 12-5 p.m. Follow Passion for Fashion on Facebook at facebook.com/passionforfashion2 for information about Special Sunday dates. See new items in the shop and stay up to date on special events and promotions, too!. The staff at Passion for Fashion looks forward to your visit.
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Geauga County Maple Leaf •
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Maple Driving Tour of NE Ohio: Ma The 2019 NE Ohio “How Sweet It Is” Maple Driving Tour hosted by Maple Producers of NE Ohio will be the first two weekends in March. Sixteen maple syrup producers across northeast Ohio will open their sugarhouses to the public. See the latest technolo-
Maple Syrup Processing Watch maple syrup being processed and see how sap is boiled down and slowly turned into rich, flavorful maple syrup at End of the Commons General Store on March 2, 9 and 16. A tent will be set up with a small wood-burning evaporator demonstrating how maple syrup was produced in the early days. Try samples of natural syrup and learn about the sugaring process. End of the Commons General Store is located at 4366 Kinsman Road in Mesopotamia.
gy at some sugar camps to production in th ways of the forefathers at others. Visitors are encouraged to pick one or of the stops over the two weekends. Many pr ducers will offer “Tastes of Maple,” which w show the ways maple is used in cooking, ba
Kiwanis Map
The Chardon Area Kiwanis Club ann es the return of maple syrup and maple sales at the Heritage House opening on don Square on Tapping Sunday, March each following Sunday from 11 a.m. to p.m. The Heritage House will be also be for maple sales on April 21 for the tradi Easter egg hunt at 9 a.m. During the M Festival April 25-28, maple sales will in both the Heritage House and festiva located on Short Court.
Thursday, February 28, 2019
all rowill ak-
Sweet Maple Sugaring Fun Something for Everyone in Geauga Park District’s Maple Programming Submitted
arch 2-3 and 9-10
he
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ing and beverages. For a complete listing of stops, visit mpneoh.com, Maple Syrup Producers of NE Ohio’s Facebook page or Destination Geauga’s event calendar. The tour is free, educational and fun for the whole family.
ple Sales to Start
nounce sugar n Char3 and o 3:30 e open itional Maple occur al tent
All funds raised through the sale support the scholarships that the club awards to Chardon area students and various other projects that it sponsors each year. In addition to the Kiwanis maple sales, the Stir Booth will be open for visitors to enjoy every Sunday prior to the festival from 12-4 p.m. For information about Kiwanis activities, call 440-413-1086 or visit www.KiwanisClubofChardon.org.
It’s hands-on, educational, inspirational and celebrational – it’s Geauga Park District’s rich tradition of FREE maple sugaring events at Swine Creek Reservation in Middlefield. Fun in the park doesn’t get much more family friendly than the free Sap’s-a-Risin’! celebration, now in its 33rd year! Festivities on three Sundays – March 3, 10 and 17, all from noon to 4 p.m. – include sap-gathering in the sugarbush with a horse-drawn sap sled, sugar house tours with sample tastes of fresh syrup, and historical stations with costumed interpreters displaying and demonstrating maple sugaring methods from prehistoric to modern day. In the toasty lodge with its large crackling fireplace, also find free maple treats and live music by The Real Deal String Band on March 3, Mr. Haney String Band on March 10, and The Woodpeckers on March 17. For those youngest nature lovers in your life, ages 3 to 5, there are still spots available for the very popular Timbertots: Maple Sugar Time! on Wednesday, March 6, 1 to 2 p.m. (Three sessions scheduled for March 5 and March 9 are already full.) Collecting sap with
smaller-sized buckets and checking out why the sugarhouse is steaming are just a couple fun things they’ll do to learn how maple syrup gets from tree to table. Swine Creek Reservation is also a featured stop on two drive- it-yourself tours on March 3 and 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.: the Ohio Maple Producers’ Maple Madness Tour and the Maple Producers of Northeast Ohio’s “How Sweet It Is” Drive-It-Yourself. Tour maps with complete lists of participating sugar houses are available at ohiomaple.org and mpneoh.com. Geauga Park District presents a number of off-site maple sugaring offerings, too. Seniors seeking a more personalized experience can register for Elderberries: Geauga County’s Maple Sugaring Heritage, to be held at the Geauga Century Village Bond Building in Burton on Thursday, March 21, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. This special monthly program is presented by Geauga Park District, the Geauga County Department on Aging and University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center, and this
month’s participants will enjoy a pancake lunch, followed by a mini sap bucket craft and tours of the Maple Museum of Geauga County. Plus, “tap” into your maple memories. Also, when you think of that sweet maple syrup, doesn’t it just make you want to dance? Well we’ve got just the event – the Tree Tapper’s Ball on Saturday, March 9, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. at Parkman Community House! Now in its 31st year, this free old-fashioned square dance includes instruction in fun fashion and rip-snortin’, old-time string band music by caller Lynn Frederick and the very talented Swine Creek Sapsuckers. Dress casually and be ready for a really good time with other couples and families equally excited for spring. Registration is required for Timbertots, Elderberries and the Tree Tapper’s Ball at www.geaugaparkdistrict.org or 440-286-9516; registration for the Tree Tapper’s Ball opens Feb. 25. With questions, you may also call the number above. Swine Creek Reservation is located at 16004 Hayes Road in Middlefield.
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Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Deck trends continue to improve on the form and function of outdoor living spaces.
Emerging Deck Trends MetroCreative Custom-built decks can expand usable outdoor entertaining spaces. Decks can surround pools and create outdoor patio areas that make it easy to establish multitiered living spaces, improving the functionality of outdoor areas. Certain deck trends have emerged as industry experts’ top picks for the upcoming remodeling and renovation season. For those thinking of revamping an existing deck, or building an entirely new one, these trends are on point. • Established perimeters: “Picture framing” is not a new trend, but one that has taken greater hold in recent years. The term refers to aesthetically appealing designs that conceal the ends of deck boards for a clean finish. Some designs feature contrasting material colors on the ends for even more impact. This helps create refined perimeters for a polished look. • Roof-top decking: Urban areas also can benefit from decking to create usable outdoor spaces. In fact, many new condominium and townhouse communities are incorporating roof-top decks into their designs, particularly
in communities with water views or other impressive vistas. HGTV experts suggest rooftop decks feature light-colored materials and fixtures to help keep the area cool even in direct sunlight. • Distressed hardwood: Builder and Developer, a management resource for professional homebuilders, says that the trend for using distressed hardwoods at home has migrated outside. Some decking manufacturers have recently introduced low-maintenance composite deck boards that mimic the look and feel of distressed, rustic hardwood flooring. This weathered appearance gives the look of age without the upkeep of real aged wood. • Wooden walkways: Decking can be the more traditional design people envision with a patio table or outdoor furniture. But it also can consist of wooden walkways or a low-laying patio to accentuate the yard. • Mixed materials: Homeowners may be inspired by commercial eateries, breweries and urban markets in their exterior design choices. Decks featuring composite materials and aluminum railings blend sophistication, urban appeal and comfort. See Decks • Page 11
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Page 11
Ready for Spring Cleaning? Don’t Forget Your Walls Submitted The time of year is fast approaching when the snow is melting and the birds are singing. It’s a time for you to open the house and freshen up for the warm months ahead. With the normal routines and chores around the house everyone does, don’t forget about your walls. Refreshing existing or adding new art is something many people do not think about, but take a good look at what you have on your walls. If you have been looking at the same art for years, it might be time for an update or a good refreshing. Taking a piece you love and giving it a simple update will add new life. This needlepoint was likely framed in the 80s using non-acid-free matting and mounting materials that have yellowed and faded over time. The subject is timeless, but the pink matting and frame only detract from the beauty of the art itself. By simply changing the mat colors and frame, now the entire work of art is preserved and timeless. Today, people are far less trendy and look for framing options that will stand the test of time. Whether you have decorative or collectible art you have invested in, it is always a good idea to have it cleaned by a professional picture framer. Many materials used in the past are harmful to the work of art. Acid-free new and improved methods for framing over the years can conserve your investment. Frame molding is also an excellent and unique home decor accent and there are many creative ways to incorporate some beautifully crafted molding into a room that adds a one of a kind design element. Molding with elegant design makes for a wonderful enhancement as wall trim and if you love the idea of wallpaper accent, but do not want the entire wall papered, consider a wallpaper panel. In-
Decks
from page 10 • Personal touches: Homeowners can customize their decks with personal touches. It’s not unheard of to wrap columns in stone or glass tiles for more impact. And a vast array of decking colors now enables fun inter-
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dependent framers such as Monica Glasscock of Artisans’ Corner Gallery can work with you or your interior designer to create the perfect addition to any room in your home. Custom framing can be far more than just framing a picture. Think outside the frame. Artisans’ Corner Gallery is located in the Newbury Center, state Route 87/Kinsman Road and Auburn Road in Newbury Township and features Ohio artists exclusively. For more information, visit artisanscornergallery.com. pretations for outdoor areas. • Fire pit conversation area: Many decks can incorporate water or fire elements for visual appeal. Gas-fueled fire elements can expand the functionality of decks beyond the warm seasons, or make enjoying them practical on nights when the temperature plummets. Decks are reimagined in many different ways with continually evolving trends.
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Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, February 28, 2019
New Store That Combines Two Businesses Opens in Parkman Submitted By Darrin J. Cook There is a buzz generating around parts of Geauga County about a new store that has recently opened just north of state Route 422 in Parkman. In November of last year frequent travelers on Madison Road (state Rt. 528) began seeing construction occurring on an existing property and soon realized they were looking at the new home of Stoltzfus Variety (now called The Barn), formerly located on Farmington Road in West Farmington. The Stoltzfus family are no strangers to retail, so when several opportunities came to fruition, including the purchase of the popular Parkman based business Cross Cut Country Store, Steven Stoltzfus and family knew it was now or never. By the early winter months of 2018 the deal was done and renovation (as well as new construction) plans were drawn. Within three months of purchasing the property, Steven updated the existing barn without losing the rustic charm, as well as adding two new construction wings of retail space. The square footage comes in just under 10,000 square feet with room on the property for further expansion if necessary. Immediately upon entering The Barn, home of Stoltzfus Footwear and Variety, customers will experience the preserved coun-
try barn look as they walk through the horse and harness section towards footwear. Horse owners should note The Barn carries harnesses, halters, bits, blankets, dac minerals, wormers and more. Continuing toward the back, you will find yourself looking at one of the largest inventories of shoes and boots in the county and the brands are very recognizable. Reebok, Muck, Carolina, Lowa, Skechers, Wolverine, LaCrosse and Rocky are just some of the selections available. Leaving footwear and waiting for you at the north end of the building is Stoltzfus Variety, home of housewares, wall décor, clocks, signs, toys, games, LED lights and so much more. By design, The Barn has an open floor plan, allowing customers to easily navigate the isles as they shop. Plenty of lighting, access to product and eye level shelving are all important features that Steven felt were vital to the shopper’s experience. The Barn, located at 18125 Madison Road in Parkman, is less than a half-hour drive from Chardon and about 10 minutes from Middlefield. It is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. If you have any questions, feel free to call at 440-548-2545. They will be happy to answer your questions.
Early Spring Landscaping Tips MetroCreative During the cold months of winter, many people stare longingly out of the window dreaming of spring and time spent outdoors. For those with green thumbs, images of tending to the garden and other aspects of their landscapes no doubt dominate such daydreams. Draw inspiration from those budding crocuses and daffodils pushing through the last remnants of snow and employ these tips to prepare for the upcoming gardening season. • One of the first steps is to apply a preemergent weed killer to get a head start knocking out weeds that can plague the lawn during the growing season. Killing weeds at the roots early on can mean far fewer hassles in spring and summer, and may prevent new generations of weeds from cropping up each year. • While it may be tempting to take a prematurely warm day as a sign that spring is in full force and purchase a bunch of annuals, it’s better to know the last of the possible frost dates (check “The Farmer’s Almanac”); otherwise, you may waste time and money planting flowers or vegetables only to have them zapped by another frosty day. • Amend the soil so that it is the right consistency — just crumbling when lifting it. Soil that is too muddy after spring thaw can harden, making it difficult for plants to flour-
ish later on. Speak with representatives at a local lawn and garden center about which types of amendments you can add to the soil in your particular area to enrich it. • Lawn and garden experts at The Home Depot suggest filling in bare patches of lawn now by mixing a few shovelfuls of soil with grass seed. Then apply this patch to the bare areas, water, and continue to care for the area until the spot fills in. • Spend a day in the garage or shed tending to the lawn mower and other gardening equipment. Clean all tools and ensure that everything works, repairing parts as needed. • Give outdoor entertaining spaces a good scrubbing, clearing away dirt and grime that may have accumulated over the winter. Use a leaf blower to blow away any leftover leaves. • Check if the front porch, railings or decking need painting and/or staining. Tackle these projects when the weather is cooler so everything will be ready for those peak spring days. • Think about any annuals you might want to plant in the landscape this year that will complement any existing shrubbery or perennials. Come up with a theme so that the entire yard is cohesive. Before homeowners know it, winter is gone and it is time to once again enjoy long days spent outdoors. Get a jump start on spring lawn prep as soon as you can.
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Geauga County Maple Leaf
6 Options for Funding Your Next Home Improvement Project MetroCreative Before starting a home improvement project, either on one’s own or with the assistance of a professional contractor, homeowners must first consider the costs involved. According to the home improvement resource HomeAdvisor, more than one-third of homeowners do not understand what hiring a professional will cost, and then cannot successfully budget and secure financing once they have set their sights on a renovation project. HomeAdvisor says that some of the more popular projects, such as remodeling a kitchen or bathroom or building a deck, can cost, on average, $19,920, $9,274 and $6,919, respectively. Homeowners may find that the more expensive renovations require them to secure some type of financing. Those who have never before sought such financing may want to consider these options. 1. Cash-out refinancing: With cash-out refinancing, a person will begin the mortgage process anew with the intention of paying off the current mortgage balance, and then taking out additional funds for other purposes. Cash-out refinancing is a way to tap into a home’s existing equity for use on improvements or other expenses, such as college tuition. 2. Home equity line of credit: The financial experts at Bankrate indicate that a HELOC works like a credit card, with the house as collateral. There is a credit limit, and borrowers can spend up to that limit. The interest rate may or may not be fixed. However, the interest may be tax-deductible if the financing
is used to improve, buy or build a home. 3. Home equity loan: Individuals also can borrow against equity in their homes with a fixed interest rate through a home equity loan. Most lenders will calculate 80 percent of the home value and subtract a homeowner’s mortgage balance to figure out how much can be borrowed, according to the financial advisory site The Simple Dollar. 4. Personal loan: Homeowners can shop around at various financial institutions for competitive personal loans to be used for home improvement purposes. Funds may be approved within one business day, which can be ideal for those who want to begin their improvements soon. 5. Personal line of credit: A personal line of credit allows borrowers to borrow only the money needed at the time, and offers a variable interest rate that is generally lower than fixed loan rates. Again, like a credit card, PLOC gives a person a maximum borrowing amount and is ideal for ongoing purchases. 6. Credit cards: In a pinch, credit cards can be used to finance improvements, but they do come with the cost of very high interest rates if the balance is not paid in full by the time the bill comes due. However, for funding smaller projects and maximizing rewards points through home improvement retailers or specific credit card company promotions, credit cards can be a way to earn various perks in addition to the benefit of improving a home. Homeowners looking to finance their next improvements should speak to a financial advisor and shop around for the best types of funding for them.
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Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Establish the Ideal Home Gaming Set-up MetroCreative The majority of modern households are not home to at least one gamer. The Entertainment Software Association, in a survey of 4,000 American households, discovered that 64 percent of households own a device they use to play video games, with an average of two gamers in each game-playing home. Gaming is so popular that The NPD Group says total consumer spending on the video game industry in 2017 equaled $36 billion. Avid gamers understand that having a dedicated and well-equipped setup can really improve the gaming experience. Here are some items worth considering for the ultimate gaming area. • Large-sized screen: A dedicated television screen will be needed for console gaming. Something at least 60 inches with Ultra High Definition and 4K capabilities is ideal. The high resolution enables crystal clear graphics and vividness. Most televisions now come with several HDMI ports, enabling people to easily connect gaming consoles and other peripherals to them. • Gaming headphones: The right headphones enable clear surround sound and include a retractable directional microphone to participate in social, multiplayer games. Wireless headphones are essential so that wires will not impede the action. • The right keyboard: PC gamers large-
ly rely on keyboards and a mouse to control the action. A keyboard with backlighting and textured rubber feet to keep the keyboard securely planted will enable gamers to play in a darkened room. • Ergonomic chair: Gaming chairs come in different varieties. Some are like office chairs that can serve double duty at a desk, whether one is working on a school project or blasting through a first-person shooter’s tactical field. Other gaming chairs run the gamut of wired rockers that build sound and motion within, and top it off with comfortable arm rests. Above all, gamers should seek chairs with ergonomic features for comfort and to avoid fatigue during long hours of play. • Speakers or soundbar: If a gaming room is doubling as a home theater, investing in a quality set of speakers or a soundbar can make sensory immersion even more intense. Soundbars or surround sound speaker systems will give ears a rest from headphones. Soundbars are a compact and often wireless way to improve television sound and are usually less expensive and easier to install than surround sound systems. • Console: Gamers must decide if they prefer a PC-based system or freestanding consoles such as those sold by Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft. Gaming is as popular as ever, and a well-curated gaming setup can enhance the action.
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Geauga County Maple Leaf
5 Things to Look for When Selecting a Lawn Service MetroCreative Most people want beautiful, lush lawns and well-maintained landscapes. Not every homeowner has the time or the inclination to do the work, however. Many homeowners rely on a lawn service to help maintain their properties and keep their homes looking great. Lawn companies come in all shapes and sizes — from fly-by-night workers with ill-maintained equipment to franchised companies with thousands of workers across the country to everything in between. Finding the right service for your needs may require some homework and understanding of what sets a quality lawn service company apart from one that’s best avoided. 1. Look to the internet. The internet connects consumers via shared information and reviews. Reading company and product reviews on Yelp and Angie’s List can help homeowners make informed decisions. Homeowners also can seek recommendations via local Facebook group pages. 2. Insist on licensure and insurance. It’s not the standard to be licensed and insured, but it is an essential step for finding a business that stands behind its work and the safety of its employees and customers. If a worker gets injured on your property or
if the mower kicks a big rock through your storm door, you’ll be liable if the company isn’t insured. 3. Get a written proposal. Be wary of companies that will quote you an offer over the phone without seeing your property in person. Understand which types of services and treatments will be included in the weekly, monthly or annual plan. Discuss the types of fertilizers and herbicides used and whether they fit with your lifestyle and environmental consciousness. 4. Ask for a contract in writing When you find a business that offers the type of work you need done at the right price, be sure that a contract is worked up and both parties sign it. This protects you as a homeowner and could help you in the long run if guarantees are not met or work is unsatisfactory. 5. One size fits all. Landscaping is more than just mowing the lawn. However, some lawn companies may only mow lawns and will plant flowers or perform spring and fall cleanup. If a company cannot fill all of your needs, find one that can; otherwise, you may need to hire specialists in each area of yard maintenance. Lawn care companies are something to consider as the weather warms and spring projects begin anew.
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Serving Geauga County since 1966
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Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, February 28, 2019