Nestled in the famed Candy Section - this 4 bedroom, 3-bath Hi Ranch sits on a half-acre. Spacious, updated eat-in kitchen opens to a great room with sliders overlooking the yard. The dining room ows seamlessly into the living room. All baths have been tastefully updated. The lower level o ers even more living space, featuring sliders to the backyard, a cozy den, a fourth bedroom, and a full bath. $1,075,000
Nestled in the famed Candy Section - this 4 bedroom, 3-bath Hi Ranch sits on a half-acre. Spacious, updated eat-in kitchen opens to a great room with sliders overlooking the yard. The dining room ows seamlessly into the living room. All baths have been tastefully updated. The lower level o ers even more living space, featuring sliders to the backyard, a cozy den, a fourth bedroom, and a full bath. $1,075,000
Charming ranch-style home. Spacious living room, eat-in kitchen with direct access to the yard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Enjoy the bonus den, featuring sliders that lead to the backyard—i with a large grassy area. The generously sized bedrooms o er a peaceful retreat after a long day. Additional highlights include updated bathrooms, central air for year-round comfort. $599,000
This spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath Colonial sits on a shy half-acre. The updated eat-in kitchen overlooks the beautiful backyard. Dining room has views into the inviting fourseason/life room complete with electric rolldown sides, lights, and heat lamps. Upstairs, the generously sized bedrooms provide a peaceful retreat. $959,000. Contact Lynn Witz and Ann Guaglione
Charming ranch-style home. Spacious living room, eat-in kitchen with direct access to the yard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Enjoy the bonus den, featuring sliders that lead to the backyard—i with a large grassy area. The generously sized bedrooms o er a peaceful retreat after a long day. Additional highlights include updated bathrooms, central air for year-round comfort. $599,000
This spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath Colonial sits on a shy half-acre. The updated eat-in kitchen overlooks the beautiful backyard. Dining room has views into the inviting fourseason/life room complete with electric rolldown sides, lights, and heat lamps. Upstairs, the generously sized bedrooms provide a peaceful retreat. $959,000. Contact Lynn Witz and Ann Guaglione
Nicely updated 4/5-bedroom, 2-bath colonialstyle home with a 2-car garage, Nestled on a shy half-acre property. Updated kitchen featuring maple cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless-steel appliances. Sliders o the kitchen open to a large deck. Formal dining room, spacious den with a wood-burning replace, and a formal living room. Hardwood oors throughout. $849,000
Beautifully updated Colonial-style home, ideally located on a prime cul-de-sac in the soughtafter Country Estate development. The updated eat-in kitchen is perfect for entertaining, open to both the den and living room for easy ow and connection. Sliders o the kitchen lead to the backyard. Full basement with full bathroom. $1,185,000
Beautifully updated Colonial-style home, ideally located on a prime cul-de-sac in the soughtafter Country Estate development. The updated eat-in kitchen is perfect for entertaining, open to both the den and living room for easy ow and connection. Sliders o the kitchen lead the backyard. Full basement with full bathroom. $1,185,000
Unique 5 Bedroom 2.5 Bath Spanch style home on shy half acre. The sunlit living room features a vaulted ceiling, Hardwood oors ow throughout the main level & upstairs. The primary suite includes a walk-in closet & private en-suite bath. Full un nished basement. First- oor laundry. Spacious backyard featuring an in-ground pool. $850,000
Lynn Witz was recognized as the 2024 Top Sales Agent of the Year, for the entire Coach Realtors organization. An honor given to only one of our rm’s 700 sales agents Commack O ce | 212 Commack Road Commack, NY 11725
Lynn Witz was recognized as the 2024 Top Sales Agent of the Year, for the entire Coach Realtors organization. An honor given to only one of our rm’s 700 sales agents Commack O ce | 212 Commack Road Commack, NY 11725
Sales Agent of the Years 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014,2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019 & Top Listing Agent 2020, 2021, 2022, 203 and 2024 631.499.1000
I do real estate really well and have the numbers to prove it.
Nestled in the famed Candy Section - this 4 bedroom, 3-bath Hi Ranch sits on a half-acre. Spacious, updated eatin kitchen opens to a great room with sliders overlooking the yard. The dining room ows seamlessly into the living room. All baths have been tastefully updated. The lower level o ers even more living space, featuring sliders to the backyard, a cozy den, a fourth bedroom, and a full bath. $1,075,000
This spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath Colonial sits on a shy half-acre. The updated eat-in kitchen overlooks the beautiful backyard. Dining room has views into the inviting four-season/ life room complete with electric rolldown sides, lights, and heat lamps. Upstairs, the generously sized bedrooms provide a peaceful retreat. $959,000. Contact Lynn Witz and Ann Guaglione
Charming ranch-style home. Spacious living room, eat-in kitchen with direct access to the yard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Enjoy the bonus den, featuring sliders that lead to the backyard—i with a large grassy area. The generously sized bedrooms o er a peaceful retreat after a long day. Additional highlights include updated bathrooms, central air for year-round comfort. $599,000
Beautifully updated Colonial-style home, ideally located on a prime culde-sac in the sought-after Country Estate development. The updated eatin kitchen is perfect for entertaining, open to both the den and living room for easy ow and connection. Sliders o the kitchen lead to the backyard. Full basement with full bathroom.
$1,185,000
Lynn Witz was recognized as the 2024 Top Sales Agent of the Year, for the entire Howard Hanna | Coach Realtors organization. An honor given to only one of our rm’s 700 sales agents.
Commack O ce | 212 Commack Road Commack, NY 11725
Nicely updated 4/5-bedroom, 2-bath colonial-style home with a 2-car garage, Nestled on a shy half-acre property. Updated kitchen featuring maple cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless-steel appliances. Sliders o the kitchen open to a large deck. Formal dining room, spacious den with a woodburning replace, and a formal living room. Hardwood oors throughout.
$849,000
Unique 5 Bedroom 2.5 Bath Spanch style home on shy half acre. The sunlit living room features a vaulted ceiling, Hardwood oors ow throughout the main level & upstairs. The primary suite includes a walk-in closet & private ensuite bath. Full un nished basement. First- oor laundry. Spacious backyard featuring an in-ground pool. $850,000
Lynn Witz
CBR CLHMS, SRES, CHMS Lic. Real Estate Salesperson Top Sales Agent of the Years 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014,2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019 & Top Listing Agent 2020, 2021, 2022, 203 and 2024 631.499.1000 Ext. 1229 Lynnwitz@gmail.com
Autumn is almost here and we're embracing the cooler weather! Whether you're looking for some fun outdoor activities or are just getting ready for the season, we have informative editorial throughout. Long Island is home to countless orchards, wineries, parks and more, allowing residents and visitors alike the opportunity to make unforgettable memories in a beautiful setting. We hope you have a peaceful end of summer and enjoy all that the upcoming season has to offer.
Fall Hiking Tips
Fall hiking can be a unique and exciting experience. Thanks to the vibrant foliage, crisp air and smaller crowds than might be around during summer, fall is a prime time to lace up one’s boots and hit the trails.
Beyond the opportunity to check out the amazing foliage displays synonymous with this time of year, spending time outdoors in fall provides various health benefits. According to UAB Medical West, some benefits of hiking include improved
mental well-being, enhanced balance and improved muscle strength.
As with any hiking trip, it is key to plan ahead to enjoy a safe and enjoyable adventure this fall.
• Layer your clothing. Fall weather can be unpredictable and dramatic temperature fluctuations can occur between morning and afternoon. The trick is layering clothing to provide comfort and safety. Start with a moisturewicking base layer, add
an insulating layer like fleece for warmth, and top it with a waterproof and windproof outer shell. You can adjust your clothing as conditions change.
• Wear proper footwear to ensure ample traction. Opt for sturdy hiking shoes or boots with significant ankle support and excellent traction. Fallen leaves and rain or early-season ice can make paths slippery. Waterproof footwear is highly recommended. Wool socks (not cotton) will wick away moisture and provide warmth even when damp. According to a study on mountain hiking in the Austrian Alps, 75 percent of fall accidents occur on descents, so having extra traction can help.
• Mind the daylight. As fall inches closer to winter, daylight hours diminish rapidly. It’s easy to underestimate how quickly dusk arrives. Plan your route to account for your pace so you can be off the trail well before sunset. Pack a flashlight or headlamp just in case.
• Mind the habitat. Anytime you hike you should be mindful of the natural settings around you. Stick to the trails so you do not disturb delicate vegetation. Also, never feed wild animals. They can grow accustomed to an easy hand-out and lose their fear of humans, putting themselves at risk of harm. Remember to dispose of trash properly and always take out what you bring in.
• Stay fueled and hydrated. Despite the cooler temperatures of fall, dehydration may occur as the body loses fluid through exertion and respiration. Pack plenty of water and take sips regularly. Bring along energy-rich snacks like protein bars, trail mix and dried fruit to maintain energy levels throughout the excursion.
Fall hiking trips enable people to immerse themselves in the stunning beauty of the season while also getting some exercise and enjoying ample fresh air.
Long Island Hiking Trails Great For The Fall
Cold Spring Harbor State Park, Cold Spring Harbor
Cold Spring Harbor State Park is located within Cold Spring Harbor Village. The hiking trails are perfect for beginners and moderate hikers. Pets are welcome! The park is at 95 Harbor Rd, Cold Spring Harbor.
Bethpage State Park, Farmingdale
Bethpage State Park is on the border of Nassau and Suffolk County. Bethpage State Park is most known for golf and has hosted several national championships. There are
many trails of varying lengths, perfect for leisurely hikes or biking. The park is at 99 Quaker Meeting House Road in Farmingdale.
Sands Point Preserve, Sands Point
Sands Point Preserve is filled with local history and scenic vistas. Sands Point Preserve has several different areas available for hiking. This includes a mile-long beach as well as forays into the woods.
Sands Point Preserve is at 127 Middle Neck Road in Sands Point.
Hempstead Lake State Park, West Hempstead
Hempstead Lake State Park is a great destination for hikers. The area’s natural beauty and relaxed trails make it a perfect spot for waterside hiking. The Hempstead Lake trail brings you throughout much of the park, around the central Hempstead Lake, Nassau County’s largest lake. Hempstead Lake State Park is located at Eagle Ave. in West Hempstead.
Sunken Meadow State Park, King’s Park
Sunken Meadow State
Park is one of Long Island’s most well-known hiking and beach spots. The three-mile waterfront is a beloved hiking area both for its views as well as the variety of the nearby terrain. Connected to the Long Island Sound with views of Connecticut. The most popular trail will take hikers nearly four miles through the local wildlife. Sunken Meadow State Park is located at New York State Reference Rte 908K, Kings Park.
To learn more about these parks and others, please visit https://parks.ny.gov/parks/
NorthportEast Northport Public Library
Upcoming Events
151 Laurel Avenue • Northport, NY 11768
631-261-6930
185 Larkfield Road • East Northport, NY 11731 631-261-2313 • www.nenpl.org
Registration is available on the library website, www.nenpl.org, or by contacting the Library at (631) 261-6930 or (631) 2612313 for assistance.
NORTHPORT GALLERY:
“Library Cards from Around the World”
In celebration of Library Card Sign-up Month, the Northport Gallery is showcasing a collection of library cards from around the United States and the world! With more than 1,000 library cards on display, this exhibit highlights the importance of libraries and their role in communities worldwide. Enjoy the exhibit, curated by Librarian Kathryn Heaviside, at the Northport Library through the month of September.
EAST NORTHPORT GALLERY:
“Nautical & Rural Long Island” by Gary Fagerland Acrylic paintings on canvas.
LOOK FOR THE LIBRARY TENT & TABLE IN THE COMMUNITY AT:
Huntington Unity Fun Day
Saturday, September 13, 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Join the Town of Huntington Public Libraries at Stimson Middle School, Huntington.
Annual Wellness Walk for Hope
Saturday, September 20, 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Join the Town of Huntington Public Libraries at Heckscher Park, Huntington.
Cow Harbor Day
Sunday, September 21, 12:00–5:00 p.m.
Visit the Northport-East Northport Public Library tent in Northport Village Park on Cow Harbor Day.
BOOK GROUPS AT THE LIBRARY
Copies of the books are available at the Northport Library Circulation Desk.
All Booked Up
(N) Thursday, September 11, 2:00 p.m.
Join Librarian Deborah Formosa to discuss The God of the Woods by Liz Moore. Registration is underway. NENR678
Novel Ideas
(N) Monday, September 29, 7:00 p.m.
Join Librarian Candace Reeder to discuss All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker. Registration is underway. NENA226
FRIDAY FILMS & FILM DISCUSSION PROGRAMS
Friday Films:
Jane Austen Wrecked My Life (EN) Friday, September 12, 2:00 p.m.
A desperately single bookseller, lost in a fantasy world, finds herself forced to let go of her insecurities and fulfill her dreams of becoming a writer and finding love. Rated R. 98 min.
Karate Kid: Legends (N) Friday, September 19, 2:00 p.m.
(EN) Friday, September 26, 2:00 p.m.
After kung fu prodigy Li Fong relocates to New York City, he attracts unwanted attention from a local karate champion and embarks on a journey to enter the ultimate competition. Rated PG-13. 94 min.
The Birth of Bond, James Bond
(N) Tuesday, September 16, 2:00 p.m.
When Ian Fleming put pen to paper and created Secret Agent 007, little did he know that his stories of espionage and intrigue would spawn one of the longest-running and most successful film series in motion picture history. Lecturer Sal St. George will explore the evolution of James Bond, from the books to the screen, and the impact the character has had around the world.
Director Spotlight Film Discussion: Boomerang (N) Wednesday, September 24, 2:00 p.m.
Join a group of fellow film lovers led by lecturer JoAnn Proscia. The group will be viewing and discussing Elia Kazan’s Boomerang. This film tells the true story of a prosecutor’s fight to prove the innocence of a man accused of a notorious murder. Not rated. 88 min.
ADDITIONAL EVENTS AND PROGRAMS
Outdoor Movie in the Library Courtyard: Lilo & Stitch
Northport Public Library
Friday, September 12, 7:30 p.m.
Join us in the Library Courtyard for an outdoor screening of Lilo & Stitch. Rated PG. 107 minutes. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be canceled.
NorthportEast Northport Public Library Upcoming Events
Sound Meditation with Guided Imagery
Northport Public Library
Wednesday, September 10, 10:00 a.m.
Quartz crystal bowls produce powerful vibratory sound waves that harmoniously resonate deeply within the body, and guided imagery is a conscious, intentional use of your imagination to produce sensory images within your mind. Practitioner Donna Nesteruk will guide you through this session that aims to promote serenity, bolster immunity, and reduce stress. Registration is underway. NENA237
Appointments with a Suffolk County Department of Labor Specialist
Northport Public Library
Thursday, September 11
1:00 p.m. NENR684 2:00 p.m. NENR688
1:15 p.m. NENR685 2:15 p.m. NENR689
1:30 p.m. NENR686 2:30 p.m. NENR690
1:45 p.m. NENR687 2:45 p.m. NENR691
Suffolk County Labor Specialist Patrick Stay will be available for one-on-one appointments to speak about current job opportunities on Long Island. Registration is underway.
Nature Photography Workshop
Northport Public Library
Tuesday, September 16, 7:00 p.m.
This program presented by Chris Paparo of Fish Guy Photos is designed for novice photographers who wish to sharpen their skills in capturing the beauty of the natural world. Fundamental photography concepts will be explained in a clear, easy-to-follow way, and participants will gain the tools and confidence to start taking more visually compelling photos, whether using a smartphone or other type of camera. Registration is underway. NENA240
Chronic Disease Self-Management Program
Northport Public Library
Wednesdays, September 17, 24, October 1, 8, 15, 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Are you living with or caring for someone with a chronic disease such as diabetes, heart disease, or COPD? This five-week series, presented by a trained volunteer from RSVP Suffolk, will provide you with information on controlling chronic conditions through exercise, nutrition, and peer support. Registration is underway. NENA244
Seed Saving
Northport Public Library
Wednesday, September 17, 6:30 p.m.
This year’s seeds can be next year’s bounty! Save time and money by discovering which of your seeds can be saved for reproducing the same plant in the following season. A Master Gardener from Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County will explain when to collect seeds and how to process, label, and store them. Registration is underway. NENA245
Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors
Northport Public Library
Wednesday, September 24, 6:00 p.m.
A representative from Alzheimer’s Association Long Island will detail common behavior changes and explain how they are a form of communication. Also discussed will be non-medical approaches to behaviors, and how to recognize when additional help may be needed. Registration is underway. NENA250
LANGUAGE LEARNING PROGRAMS
Everyday Spanish (ZOOM) Tuesdays, September 16, 23, 30, October 7, 14, 21, 28, 5:15 p.m.
This Spanish conversation group focuses on building listening skills, improving comprehension, and mastering key vocabulary to help you start conversing in Spanish immediately. Open to newcomers and experienced speakers alike. Registration is underway. NENR680
Dynamic English (Note: new day!)
(EN) Wednesdays, September 17, 24, October 8, 15, 22, 29, 7:00 p.m
Develop your English vocabulary, grammar, reading, and pronunciation with this friendly conversation group intended for intermediate English language learners. NENR679
Pronunciation Practice (ZOOM)
Mondays, September 15, 22, 29, October 6, 20, 27, 7:00 p.m.
A certified accent coach leads this group intended for beginner and intermediate English language learners. NENR681
Quick Reads
Tuesday, September 23, 7:00 p.m.
This informal reading group is designed for intermediate English language learners or for those who would like to improve their literacy skills. The reading selection will be emailed one week before the meeting. (Print copies available at East Northport Reference Desk.) NENR683
Apple Picking Pointers
Visiting a local apple orchard and picking one’s fill of apples is a quintessential fall activity. Apple picking is an ideal way to spend time outdoors when the weather tends to be cool and pleasant. Gathering fresh-from-the-tree fruit to turn into favorite fall desserts like cobblers and pies is irresistible.
According to the Economic
Research Service, Washington state is the leading apple producer in the United States. It is followed very distantly by New York and Michigan. Apples were first cultivated in Canada by early French settlers, with the first trees planted in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley around 1633. Today, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, and British
Columbia have become strong players in the apple business. While other areas may not be apple meccas, those looking to pick their own have plenty of options across North American to enjoy this pastime.
Prior to an apple picking adventure, people can do a little preparation to ensure the afternoon is fun and fruitful.
• Do some research. Before individuals head out, they should do research into the available orchards and which apple varieties they specialize in. Ripening seasons vary, so certain varieties may not be available at all times. Call ahead to learn which apples are ripe and when.
• Visit early. The best apples are often available early in the season before the trees have been heavily picked over. It’s also a good idea to visit the orchard early in the day, which means cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
• Dress appropriately. Orchards can be dusty, muddy and buggy. The ground also may be uneven.
U-Pick Orchards Across Long Island
Spend the day exploring one of these orchards and pick your favorites right from the tree.
Breeze Hill Farm & Preserve
31215 County Road - Route 48, Peconic, 631-876-5159
Over 75 acres, they offer 26 varieties of apples.
Hank’s PumpkinTown
240 Montauk Highway, Water Mill, 631-726-4667
Long Islanders can pick a wide range of apples, including Ultimate Gala, McIntosh, Honeycrisp, Daybreak Fuji, Cortland,
Macoun, Empire, Snow Sweet, Jonagold, Autumn Gala, Cameo, SunCrisp, Mutsu and Autumn Rose Fuji.
Harbes Orchard
5698 Sound Ave., Riverhead, 631-683-8388
Apple Picking is available at Harbes’ Riverhead location, which has 15-acres of 27 types of apples on dwarf trees, including Honeycrisp, Daybreak Fuji, Gala and Gold Rush.
Harbes Farms Jamesport 1223 Main Road, Jamesport, 631-494-4796
Individuals can wear comfortable clothes and closed-toed shoes that can get dirty. Also, they should dress in layers, as it can be chilly early in the day and then warmer later on.
• Pick correctly. Instead of yanking on the apples, which can damage the tree and apples, people should gently roll or twist the apple upwards from the branch. If the apple is ripe it will detach easily with stem intact.
• Avoid bruising. It’s wise to inspect the apples to make sure they are firm and brightly colored. Those with bruising or insect damage should be left behind.
• Don’t overload. Only pick what you need. Apples are delicate, and overloading the apples into bags can crush or bruise the ones on the bottom. Plus, overpicking means that the apples may spoil before they can be eaten.
After a day at the orchard, apples can be stored unwashed in a cool, dark place, which will help them stay fresher, longer.
Honeycrisp apple picking is available at Harbes’ Jamesport location, has 7 acres of Honeycrisp apples on dwarf trees.
Long Islanders can pick their own Gala, Honeycrisp and Macoun apples.
Milk Pail U-Pick Farm 50 Horsemill Lane, Water Mill, 631-537-2565
Long Islanders can pick from their Jonamac, McIntosh, Sansa and Zestar.
Seven Ponds Orchard 65 7 Ponds Road, Water Mill, 631-726-8015
People can select Gingergold, Redfree and Zestar apples.
Wickham’s Fruit Farm 28700 Main Road, Cutchogue, 631-734-6441
Dating back to 1661, the farm is one of the largest on the North Fork and offers a wide selection of apples in their You Pick Farm.
Fall Is Loaded With Opportunities To Have Fun
It can be bittersweet to say farewell to summer. Months of warm weather and sunshine are hard to beat and provide plenty of opportunities to rest and relax.
Just because summer has come and gone doesn’t mean the opportunity to enjoy recreation is in the rearview mirror. Fall is awash in opportunities to enjoy the fresh, inviting air and take part in the various activities that go hand-in-hand with this time of year.
Apple and pumpkin picking
Heading to a nearby orchard or farm and choosing fresh fruit is a hallmark of fall. In fact, these are some of the most popular places to visit on the weekends, as crowds of people clamber to grab their Granny Smith or Cortland apples. Call ahead to learn which varieties are ripe and plan to arrive early before the trees are picked clean. Apple orchards and pumpkin patches can be dusty, muddy or messy, so dress accordingly for the environment, including closed-toe shoes you don’t mind getting dirty. Keep in mind that many of these establishments are cash-only. Bring cash and expect to have your bounty weighed upon checkout.
Wine tasting
September and October are prime months for grape harvesting, which means local vineyards may host special tours and events to take advantage of their growing season. Fall also is a great time to visit a vineyard that offers tastings, as you can sit out in the sun and cool weather and enjoy a glass or two of the latest vintage.
Follow local vineyards on social media or get on their email lists to stay on top of upcoming events.
Leaf peeping
The gradual depletion of chlorophyll in tree leaves is responsible for the amazing and colorful display Mother Nature puts on each fall. Everyone is treated to vivid panoramas of reds, oranges, purples, and yellows, making them ideal all-natural photo backdrops. Plenty of people travel to more rural areas to witness leaves change color, and that means that country areas can get crowded. It always pays to plan a leafpeeping excursion for early in the day to account for the possibility of traffic along the route. Make an entire day of it by seeing the sights, grabbing lunch, and hitting a farmer’s market while out and about.
Fall fair
Many towns hold off on their annual fairs and
carnivals until the cooler months of the year. These are entertaining and boisterous events that can include everything from food and livestock contests to rides and amusements to musical performances.
As these fairs tend to last a couple of days to a week, it could be fruitful to look
Exerciseinto whether they sell multiday passes at a discount, particularly if you plan to attend a few times and maximize the fun.
Opportunities for fun abound each fall. With inviting weather and calendars full of seasonal offerings, now is an ideal time to enjoy the great outdoors.
Did You Know?
is just as beneficial for older adults as it is for children and young adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, engaging in regular physical activity is among the most important steps older adults can take as they seek to safeguard their overall health. Such activity can prevent or delay many age-related health problems and strengthen muscles while improving balance, which can reduce risk for falls and injuries such as broken bones. The CDC notes that certain physical activities can be characterized as multicomponent activities, which means they combine aerobic activity, muscle strengthening and balance training. Examples of such activities include dancing, yoga, tai chi, gardening, and even sports participation. Stay active!
A Guide To Fall Lawn Care
For Cool-Season Grasses
Springmight mark the time when many homeowners begin tending to their lawns each year, but it’s important to recognize the significance of fall lawn care as well. Grasses vary, and homeowners are urged to identify which type of grass is in their lawn so they can ensure it gets the care it needs before winter’s first frost. Coolseason grasses like perennial ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass are common in various regions, and the following strategies can help homeowners with these types of grasses tend to their lawns this fall.
• Stick to your recommended fertilization schedule. Homeowners who have been fertilizing since spring are urged to continue doing so in fall at the recommended interval. It’s easy to forget to fertilize
in fall thanks to cooler temperatures that don’t call lawn care to mind and busier schedules after school starts again and summer vacation season ends. But many fertilizer manufacturers advise users of their products to fertilize several times over the course of the year, including in fall. Stick to the intervals recommended on the packaging of the fertilizer you’ve been using, making sure not to forget to fertilize this fall.
• Conduct a soil test. A soil test can determine if the soil is lacking any nutritive elements it needs to come back strong in spring. Certain amendments can restore pH balance if necessary and foster stronger growth when lawns come back in spring.
• Aerate, if necessary. Soil
can become compacted over time, and that can cause a range of problems for a lawn. Compacted soil can make it harder for water to reach the roots of grass, which weakens grass and makes it more vulnerable to damage during adverse weather events like drought. Compacted soil also makes it harder for nutrients in fertilizer to get into the soil. Aerating is best left to professionals, particularly in larger lawns, as the job can foster strong root development when done
properly.
• Remove thatch where it’s excessive. Thin layers of thatch can benefit lawns by delivering nutrients from glass clippings and leaves to a lawn. However, when thatch is excessive, it can block air, water and even fertilizer from reaching the soil. Thatch often can be removed with a rake, but lawns with especially thick layers of thatch may need to be scarified. Homeowners can take a DIY approach to scarifying or hire a landscaping professional to dethatch the lawn and remove the thatch from their properties.
• Continue to water the lawn. A cool-season grass will continue to require water into the fall. Though the lawn won’t need to be watered as frequently in fall as in summer, various lawn care professionals note coolseason grasses still need roughly an inch of water each week in fall.
• Remove leaves as they fall. Fallen leaves can affect a lawn in much the same way as excessive amounts of thatch, blocking water and nutrients from reaching the soil. So it’s best to remove fallen leaves, especially when they begin to fall in large quantities.
Fall is an opportune time to tend to a lawn to increase the chances grass grows back strong in spring.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage With Food
National
Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual, month-long celebration that begins on September 15 and lasts through October 15. The month recognizes the culture, history and contributions of American citizens who can trace their lineages to Spain, Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. There are many ways to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month, including by enjoying culturally relevant foods. There’s no shortage of great recipes to enjoy during Hispanic Heritage Month, including this one for “Mixed Tostadas” from “The Complete Mexican, South American & Caribbean Cookbook” (Metro Books) by Jane Milton, Jenni Fleetwood and Marina Filippelli. Tostadas are like edible plates that can support many ingredients, as long as they aren’t too juicy.
Mixed Tostadas
Makes 14
Oil, for shallow frying
14 freshly prepared unbaked corn tortillas
1 cup mashed red kidney or pinto beans
1 iceberg lettuce, shredded
Olive oil and vinegar dressing (optional)
2 cooked chicken breast portions, skinned and thinly sliced
8 ounces guacamole
1 cup coarsely grated sharp cheddar cheese Pickled jalapeño chiles, seeded and sliced, to taste
Directions:
1. Heat the oil in a shallow frying pan and fry the corn tortillas, one by one, until golden brown on both sides and crisp but not hard.
2. Spread each tortilla with a layer of mashed pinto or kidney beans. Put a layer of shredded lettuce (which can either be left plain or lightly tossed with a little dressing) over the beans.
3. Arrange chicken slices on top of the lettuce. Carefully spread over a layer of the guacamole and finally sprinkle over the grated cheese.
4. Arrange the mixed tostadas on a large platter and serve immediately, while still warm. Use your hands to eat tostadas, as they are extremely messy.
Variations: Instead of chicken, try using shredded pork, ground beef or turkey, or sliced chorizo. For a more authentic taste, use queso fresco or feta cheese instead of cheddar.
Aroomaddition can be a worthy project that makes a home more livable. A host of factors will affect the cost of a room addition, but experts at HomeAdvisor estimate that such a project can cost as much as $150,000. The size of the new room, the location of the home, the materials used to build the room, and a number of variables unique to the existing home will affect the final cost of an addition. Homeowners are best served by contacting various contractors and receiving multiple estimates to get the most accurate idea of what the cost layout will be. Though the sticker price of a room addition may shock some homeowners, it's worth noting that such projects provide a good return at resale.
Natural Ways To Fight Fall Allergies
As the days become shorter and the weather cools down, a new crop of allergy symptoms can arise, turning the autumn season into one marked by sneezing, scratchy throats and itchy eyes. Medications can alleviate such symptoms, but allergy sufferers may want to investigate some natural ways to beat allergies. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, ragweed is one of the more common triggers of autumnal allergies. Ragweed contributes to “hay fever,” which is a term to describe allergic rhinitis that occurs as a symptom of ragweed pollen in the air. Ragweed releases pollen in mid-August, and it can continue to be problematic until a deep freeze arrives. Other sources of fall allergies include leaf mold and pollen that is present on fallen leaves. This gets circulated when people begin to rake or blow fallen leaves. Classroom pets and chalk dust in schools (although chalkboards are largely a thing of the past) are other autumn allergens. The good news is that many natural remedies work just as effectively as over-the-counter medications in regard to combatting ragweed and pollen problems. Here’s how to beat the fall allergy blues.
• Stay Away From Pollen. Stay away from pollen and prevent it from being tracked indoors. Remove shoes when walking through the door. Take off clothes worn outside and launder them promptly, showering to wash pollen off of the body. Use an air conditioner or keep windows closed when the pollen count is high.
• Increase Omega-3 Fatty
Acids. It is well documented that fatty acids are good for brain health and cardiovascular well-being, but these acids also may help with allergies. A German study linked foods high in omega-3 fatty acids with the ability to fight inflammation, which is a hallmark of allergy suffering. Foods that are high in fatty acids include walnuts, flax, eggs, and cold-water fatty fish.
• Rinse Off Pollen. Use a mild cleanser to rinse the eyelids and eyelashes of pollen, as this is where it tends to congregate after being outdoors. Use saline spray to clear nasal passages of excess pollen as well.
• Take Natural Supplements. A study published in the journal Clinical and Experimental Allergy found participants who used tablets of the herb butterbur showed significant allergy relief after only one week. Select herbs from reputable manufacturers who certify them.
• Use Eucalyptus Oil. This oil is great to have in the house to help clear up sinuses and provide nasal congestion relief. Mix a small amount with coconut oil and rub onto the chest. There also is some evidence that adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to cleansing products can help kill dust mites around the house.
• Wear A Mask. When doing housework or yard work, wear a mask to reduce the inhalation of specific allergens.
