Medina County, OH June 2024

PRREPPAARRE E F FOR R THHEIIR R F FUTTURRE E NAVIGATING COLLEGE SAVINGS

Smart Strategies for Rising Education Costs

It's never to early to plan for the the journey of higher education. Rising college costs demand early planning. Explore practical options like 529 plans, Coverdell ESAs, and more. Don't let the growing costs of education disrupt your own retirement plans.

Start their journey with a sttroonng financial f foouundation. Schedule your complimentary consultation at (330) 473-1060 to explore effective college savings strategies foor their educational future.

Celebrating the father figures of Medina County

The importance of a father figure is tremendous. That’s why we’re celebrating them this month in our annual Gentlemen’s issue.

Fathers and father figures make countless differences in their home and family, and even to those around them that aren’t considered “biological children.” A father’s gifts of quality time, life-giving words and positive actions have a long-lasting impact on those around them.

As I reflect on fatherhood this month, here are just a few of the ways father figures can make an impact:

• A father’s strength can be powerful

• A dad’s words can be fueling and inspirational

• Hugs from a dad can be deeply comforting

• A dad’s smiles can instill joy and confidence

• Time with a dad can be fun and productive

• A dad’s guidance can be life-changing and foundational

• A father’s correction can be life-saving and life-giving

• Adventures with a dad can be exciting and memorable

Let your father or the father figure in your life know how much they matter to you. And if you are a father figure to someone, let us be the first to say — thank you. You are invaluable to the people who know and need you as well as the community around you.

Happy Father’s Day!

EMILY SHEA-OWEN, EDITOR @MEDINACOUNTYLIFESTYLE

June 2024

PUBLISHER

Joe Violi | joe.violi@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Emily Shea-Owen | emily.shea@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Martha Doyle | martha.doyle@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Erin Baka, Emily Shea-Owen

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Wallace Home Furnishings, Kauffman Lawn Furniture, The Common Ground, Red Fox Reclaiming

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

inside the issue

ARTICLE BY EMILY SHEA-OWEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE COMMON GROUND

THE COMMON GROUND PROVIDES A SPACE FOR ALL TO NETWORK, PROMOTE AND GROW WITHIN THE COMMUNITY

CULTIVATING COMMUNITY

If you haven’t already visited The Common Ground, a multi-use merchant and maker space located in a newly reinvented, historic warehouse at 220 N. State Rd., allow us to introduce you. And if you have visited before, indulge us by reading along — you may just learn something new

• The Library of Wonders: Explore this enchanted bookstore that sells everything from modern romance novels to classic paperbacks.

• Betty’s Retro: Browse a carefully curated collection of fun, kitschy vintage from almost every decade.

“THE COMMON GROUND IS A SPACE FOR ALL TO NETWORK, PROMOTE AND GROW”

The Common Ground opened in November 2022 to provide a space for all to network, promote and grow within their community by creating a one-stop-shop for all things local. With over 120,000 square feet, it is home to over 50 small businesses, venue space, eats and drinks, indoor recreation and more, creating a new community hub within the city of Medina.

SHOP

From handcrafted jewelry to elevated mixed media art pieces, The Common Ground has a wide variety of merchants. It hosts well over two dozen local merchants, providing a well-rounded shopping experience for all ages and walks of life. Some merchants include...

• ReInVintage Furniture & Decor: Shop vintage furniture and accessories that have been reinvented with new elements to create high quality and functional home decor.

• Gift Mill Run: Pick, personalize and pot your own succulents at this mother-daughter owned succulent bar.

• Windy Roots Boutique: Find your new favorite tee in this boutique specializing in earthy staples.

We’re barely scratching the surface with this list. View The Common Ground’s full list of merchants at  TheCommonGroundWHS.com/ Merchants.

DRINK AND DINE

The Common Ground is home to four main food and drink concepts: Pickleback’s Cocktail Lounge, Bar and Patio, Tater’s Bistro, Rustbelt Smokehouse and The Grind Coffee Bar. Here’s a rundown of what each has to offer:

• Pickleback’s: Hand crafted cocktails, draft beers and an array of canned and bottled beverages.

• Tater’s: Fresh soups, salads and paninis, as well as grab-and-go snacks, sandwiches and veggie boxes.

• Rustbelt: Smoked meats and savory eats like brisket tacos and mac and cheese.

• The Grind: Espresso beverages, coffee flights, teas, steamers and more.

CONTINUED >

EXPERIENCE

In between all that shopping and eating, there’s plenty to explore and experience at The Common Ground too. Check out some of the warehouse’s experiences:

• Rising Up Rock Gym: Learn how to climb in a safe and encouraging environment that features climbing walls for beginners and seasoned climbers alike.

• Lumberjaxe Alley: Let off some steam while having fun by throwing axes at this facility with six lanes and a state-of-theart projection system.

• Play Grounds: Families will love this safe, indoor environment for children ages 4 and under to learn and play at their own pace.

• MK Airsoft: Engage in a little healthy competition at this indoor airsoft facility that features obstacle courses.

• Better Bodies of Medina: Get your sweat on at this inclusive gym that offers personal and small group training for all fitness levels.

“SUMMER

MARKETS WILL FEATURE SHOPPING AND ACTIVITIES BOTH INDOORS AND OUTDOORS”

MARKETS

Join The Common Ground once a month for a small business Saturday market. During the event, an additional 50 pop-up makers and small businesses are at the warehouse for the day. Plus, attendees can enjoy food trucks, crafted cocktails, photo ops and more. Gear up for these summer markets that will feature shopping and activities both indoors and outdoors:

• Flea Fest: Summer Kick-Off on Saturday, June 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Flea Fest: Hello Summer on Saturday, July 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Flea Fest: August Market on Saturday, Aug. 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To learn more about becoming a vendor, join The Common Ground’s waitlist at  TheCommonGroundWHS.com/ Become-A-Vendor

The Common Ground’s regular hours are Friday 5-9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Learn more and plan your visit at TheCommonGroundWHS.com

PATIO SEASON

UPGRADE YOUR outdoor living experience

KAUFFMAN LAWN FURNITURE HAS EVERYTHING YOU NEED

ARTICLE BY ERIN BAKA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAUFFMAN LAWN FURNITURE

Kauffman Lawn Furniture, located just outside the quaint town of Berlin, has been the go-to destination for premium outdoor furniture and structures for over 26 years in Amish Country. With a diverse range of handcrafted products, from timeless Adirondack chairs to charming log cabins, they have everything you need to enhance your outdoor living space.

David and Dorothy Kauffman, the founders, have cultivated a legacy of exceptional craftsmanship and personalized service since establishing the business in 1994. Their strong commitment to excellence and family values is evident in their hands-on approach, with all family members involved in daily operations, ensuring every customer receives the highest level of care and attention.

Throughout the summer, Kauffman Lawn experiences a bustling season, thanks to the high demand for their structures, pergolas and gazebos. These outdoor additions serve as focal points in creating inviting and functional spaces for customers to enjoy their outdoor living areas. Whether it’s providing shade from the sun, shelter from the rain or simply enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a backyard, Kauffman Lawn’s structures play a vital role in transforming outdoor spaces into cozy retreats. With their dedication to quality craftsmanship and personalized service, they remain the best place to go for those eager to elevate their outdoor living experience throughout the summer months.

When considering a purchase, customers have the flexibility to choose between two convenient options for their outdoor projects. For those who prefer a hassle-free experience, their skilled team offers start-to-finish installation services. From site preparation to final assembly, they handle every aspect of the project with precision and expertise, ensuring a seamless and professional installation process.

Kauffman Lawn remains

committed to delivering exceptional quality and personalized service every step of the way.

Alternatively, for the DIY enthusiasts, Kauffman Lawn accommodates by providing precut materials. This option allows customers to take on the project themselves while still benefiting from Kauffman Lawn’s high-quality craftsmanship. With precut materials, customers can enjoy the satisfaction of building their outdoor structure while having the peace of mind that comes with the business’s trusted reputation and reliable materials.

Whether customers opt for full installation services or choose to tackle the project themselves, Kauffman Lawn remains committed to delivering exceptional quality and personalized service every step of the way.

Father’s Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate father figures and all they do. Kauffman Lawn offers a range of outdoor products that make ideal gifts for Father’s Day. Whether Dad loves grilling up a storm, gathering around a cozy fire pit or showcasing his culinary skills in an outdoor kitchen, they have the perfect addition to his outdoor space.

For the father figure who enjoys firing up the grill, their selection of outdoor bars provides the perfect setting for entertaining family and friends while cooking up delicious meals. With

ample space for food prep and serving, our outdoor bars are both functional and stylish, making them a great addition to any backyard.

If Dad loves to relax by the warm glow of a fire, Kauffman Lawn’s fire pits and fireplaces are sure to impress. Whether it’s roasting marshmallows with the kids or enjoying a quiet evening under the stars, their fire features create a cozy atmosphere that any father figure will love.

For the ultimate outdoor cooking experience, consider treating your father figure to an outdoor kitchen. Complete with a grill, sink and ample counter space, an outdoor kitchen allows them to showcase their culinary skills while spending time outdoors with family and friends.

Whether you’re looking to create a cozy backyard retreat, a functional outdoor living space or you’re on the hunt for a Father’s Day gift (or any gift, for that matter) Kauffman Lawn has the products and expertise to make your vision a reality.

Find Kauffman Lawn at 4574 US Route 62 in Millersburg. Learn more about Kauffman Lawn and connect with a staff member directly by calling 877.219.2741 or visiting KauffmanLawnFurniture.com .

The Perfect Recliner for Dad

In honor of our annual Gentlemen’s issue, we were delighted to have the chance to interview Wallace Home Furnishings owner, Rick Wallace, about his experience owning the furniture store and the exciting products he knows the father figure in your life will love receiving for Father’s Day this year.

Tell me a little bit about your background in the furniture industry.

I’ve done a little bit of every thing, from deliveries to assembling floor displays, to customer relations. I was the regional manager of 228 furni ture stores for 17 years.

When did you open Wallace Home Furnishings?

We opened on September 1, 2020. Yes, that’s right — we opened during the middle of the pandemic.

What do you love about owning Wallace Home Furnishings?

One of the best things about owning a furniture store is the opportunity to help customers create spaces they feel com fortable in and love. I enjoy being able to provide them with pieces that enhance their homes and lifestyles; it can be incredibly rewarding. Additionally, I get a sense of fulfillment from seeing custom ers positively react to a unique furniture collection that I’ve curated.

I FEEL SO G RATEFUL TO BE PART OF A COMM THAT SUPPORTS ITS NEIGHBORHOOD FURNITU

Do you have any exciting new products that we should know about?

Yes, we just started carrying 100% leather zero gravity power living room furniture. Our zero gravity reclining chairs offer a sense of weightlessness and deep relaxation by reducing pressure on the spine and providing relief from back pain.

What are some products you have in-store that would make an excellent Father’s Day gift?

King Comfort offers the recliner of all recliners. It supports up to 500 pounds and is made in the USA. It provides an additional 4 inches of ottoman height, reduces pain in the back and hips, improves blood flow from the extremities to the heart and decreases swelling in the legs and feet. Additionally, it has a USB charging port for electronic devices.

Summer is coming to an end — do you have any sales coming up to commemorate the end of the season or celebrate upcoming holidays?

At the end of the summer, we begin our end-ofthe-year clearance on everything in-store. We have furniture for every room of the home, from bedroom to living room.

What do you love about Medina County?

What I love about Medina County is serving the families of several generations, including business owners and real estate agents. I feel so grateful to be part of a community that supports its neighborhood furniture store.

Is there anything else we should know about Wallace Home Furnishings?

We have years of experience with over 500 manufacturers, providing us the opportunity to offer our customers the lowest price on the best quality American-made furniture. Further, we’re a family-owned business that always provides 1) quality craftsmanship: premium materials and expert construction, ensuring durable and luxurious furniture pieces; 2) exclusive designs: unique and exclusive models, showcasing innovation and sophistication; and 3) exceptional customer service: personalized to the customer with a strong attention to detail and assistance in selecting and customizing furniture.

Visit Wallace Home Furnishings at 883 N. Court St. and learn more by checking out the store’s website: WallaceHomeFurnishings.com .

MUNITY URE STORE.

About our cabinets:

40-50% off Retail Solid Wood Construction

All soft-close hinges & glides

000 60 000

Our Choice Select® options are full overlay door styles, creating a seamless, modern, and uniform appearance

Choice Essentials®

Our Choice Essentials® options are partial overlay door styles, which can provide a bit more visual interest by showcasing the cabinet frame details

Trend Colors

Our trend colors are available in both partial or full overlay door style based on preference and desired effect for your space

Let’s stay in touch! Contact Us (216)378-9313 medina@choicecabinet.com

SHOWROOM

4856 Richmond Rd, Warrensville Heights, OH 44128

SHOWROOM

Fremont

Reclaiming Whiskey and Wine Barrels

RED FOX RECLAIMING BREATHES NEW LIFE INTO OLD WHISKEY AND WINE BARRELS

ARTICLE BY EMILY SHEA-OWEN

Whiskey wall shelf

Wine rack

When Rob Skomski opened his reclaimed wood and whiskey barrel business, Red Fox Reclaiming, in 2018, he could have never anticipated the influx of customer support he would receive during the 2020 pandemic. During this time, there was a massive spike in DIY projects, making his reclaimed wood pieces a hot commodity.

But we’re getting ahead of ourselves...

The story of Red Fox Reclaiming began in Hinckley with Rob naming his business after his red fox labrador retriever, Buddy. At the beginning, he primarily offered reclaimed wooden pallet products. It wasn’t until April 2019 that he began to create pieces of home decor from reclaimed whiskey and wine barrels. Now, he offers a little bit of both and often pursues custom projects for homes and businesses across Northeast Ohio.

When it comes to breathing new life into old whiskey and wine barrels, Rob explains that it’s important to know their three main components: 1) The staves, which are the white oak slats pressed into a cylindrical shape to make up the cask; 2) the barrel heads, or lids that sit on the top and bottom; and 3) the metal hoops that are wrapped around the outside, keeping

everything locked in place. Each of these components come together to make a sturdy barrel that can be reclaimed and repurposed as a piece of furniture or can even be disassembled and recycled in a different way — like as a wall shelf or bottle opener.

The variations and styles of different furniture pieces using reclaimed barrels are almost endless. Some of Rob’s more popular products include cabinets, tables, stools and chairs. What’s neat, is that each piece utilizes the components of the barrel differently, based on each customer’s needs and preferences. For example, when making a stool or chair, Rob uses the staves and hoops as the base and the lid as the seat.

Some of the smaller home decor pieces range from wine racks that are made from wine barrel staves, serving trays that incorporate reclaimed wood pieces and wine barrel staves and clocks that are made from the barrel lid.

“In addition to all of my regular furniture and home decor pieces, I have done so many custom pieces over the years,” says Rob.

Some of the other ideas he has on his mind to try include an entertainment center for a video game console, Adirondack chairs and a fire pit.

“The story of Red Fox Reclaiming began with Rob naming his business after his red fox labrador retriever, Buddy.”

“In addition to all of my regular furniture and home decor pieces, I have done so many custom pieces over the years,”

Product display at The UpTown Shoppe

All of Red Fox Reclaiming’s oneof-a-kind products can be found at RedFoxReclaiming.com as well as on Etsy at  Etsy.com/Shop/RedFoxReclaiming . Whether you’re interested in learning more about Rob’s current selection of products or you want to inquire about getting a custom piece, we recommend checking out both the website and Etsy shop to see the full range of products. You can also find a beautiful array of Rob’s products at The UpTown Shoppe 32 Public Square.

Several northeast Ohio businesses also feature some of Rob’s work on display. He crafted the interior wood walls and other functional decor at Niko’s Bar & Gyros in North Royalton, as well as indoor and outdoor whiskey pub tables at The Depot at Union Station in Lagrange.

Learn more about Red Fox Reclaiming by checking out their website. Also, reach out to Rob at 440.821.9993 to schedule a visit at his dog-friendly workshop. Also, don’t forget that one of Rob’s handcrafted pieces could serve as the perfect Father’s Day present this month.

WelcomeHome

JUNE

JUNE 5TH

Lineage Legacies: Connecting your Ancestors to America’s History

Medina Library | 6:30 PM

Lineage societies are a great way to honor your ancestors’ accomplishments. This program guides you through applying to a lineage society of your choice. It covers filling out forms, paying fees, meeting deadlines and includes a personal example of the process. Learn more and sign up to attend at MCDL.info

JUNE 9TH

Hichem Ferrah: Algerian Inspired Music

Wadsworth Public Library | 2:00 PM

Ohio Regional Music Arts and Cultural Outreach (ORMACO) and the Wadsworth Public Library continue their Live at the Library concert series with a performance by North Ridgeville-based musician Hichem Ferrah. Ferrah is Algeria-born and his style is influenced by jazz, blues, flamenco and African music. Reserve your free seat at Ormaco.org

JUNE 15TH

Opera under the Stars: Cleveland Opera Theater

Uptown Park | 7:00 PM

ORMACO continues its summer concert series with Opera Under the Stars as members of the Cleveland Opera Theater return for their ninth season. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnics to enjoy this free concert featuring beloved melodies from operettas and musicals.

SALON EVANGELENE

• 3 Hairstylist Price Tiers, Based On Experience

• Custom Blended Goldwell Haircolor, Hilites, & Balayage

• Certified Extension Experts- Tape-in, Sew-in Weft, Keratin Bond and Halocouture DAY SPA

• Highly-Skilled Spa Experts- Specialist in Field With Decades Of Experience

• Therapeutic Massage Therapy Hot stone, CBD Massages

• Eminence Organic Facials

• Natural Nail Manicures & Pedicures with our exclusive Dazzle Dry Nail Lacquer

events

CONTINUED

JUNE 16TH

Medina County Historical Society Open House

McDowell-Phillips House Museum | 1:00 PM

Learn about the Medina County Historical Society and enjoy a tour of the McDowell-Phillips House Museum. Admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $7 for youth and free for children under 7 when accompanied by an adult.

JUNE 21ST

Erin Nicole Neal & The Chill Factors

Secrest Arboretum Amphitheater | 6:30 PM

ORMACO and the Friends of the Secrest Arboretum continue their seasonal Music at the Arboretum concert series with an electric performance by the Cleveland-based band Erin Nicole Neal & The Chill Factors. Expect to hear blues, rock, pop, soul, jazz and funk. Learn more at Ormaco.org.

JUNE 29TH

Steve Free Band: An Evening of Appalachian Folk

Buffalo Creek Retreat | 7:00 PM

Known as the “Appalachian Jimmy Buffett,” Steve Free is an award-winning musician who draws inspiration from his Native American and Appalachian roots. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnics to enjoy an outdoor performance by him and his band.

Want to be featured?

Chippewa