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As I type this, I’m finishing up August edition, starting the Elkhart County Fair where I’m a 4-H leader for the Elkhart County 4-H Media Club, and wondering where has summer gone?
It’s been a great season, not too blistering hot. However, the insects with insane appetites are ridiculous. Even my friend Kathleen, who urban gardens in the Bronx, has been dealing with all sorts of insects snacking on her plants.
A reader pointed out in last month’s Editor’s Note, that I while I complained about earwigs, I didn’t bother giving any solutions to getting rid of them. My neighbor recommended putting out traps with pop in them. That worked a bit, I also learned earwigs prefer Pepsi over root beer.
So I reached out to the Elkhart County Extension Office which offers an Ask a Master Gardener advice line.
Dan Carlson responded stating, “Earwigs love dark moist places to hide in the daytime. Their main food is dead or decaying mate-
rial, but healthy plants will be eaten. This wet spring has been great for earwigs. Keep the areas infected as dry and clean as possible. This upcoming hot dry spell will help. Insecticides and dusts containing permethrin, carbaryl, deltamethrin, or acetmiprid will help. They are available at garden stores but you will have to check the ingredients label. Be sure to follow label instructions when applying, and do not use indoors.”
Unfortunately he did not provide any ideas for those with earwigs who have gotten indoors.
As usual, the August issue is packed with great info. We discuss the difference between a pergola and a gazebo and how nice it is to have a fire pit, both of which can extend a home’s living space outside.
As we continue to celebrate our 20th anniversary, we take a look at how cabinetry has changed over the years. The short answer is, it’s changed a lot, but be sure to read the article to learn how it’s changed.
Dani Messick also did a story on how to
keep those outdoor grills clean and ready to go for the next barbecue.
And we look at front doors. Growing up there would be posters featuring “The Doors of (Insert your favorite city).”
I always loved those posters for the architectural detail and differences the doors offered.
But there’s more than beauty or price to consider when purchasing a new door. Dani also looked into what should be considered such price ranges depending on what the door is made of.
So before focusing on finishing up the house work or preparing the kiddos for back to school, take some time to enjoy this month’s issue.
Lauren
SHIPSHEWANA
Then and now:
How kitchen cabinets have changed over the past 20 years
By Julie Young House and Home Feature Writer
They say the more things change, the more they stay the same. However, that expression does not apply to today’s kitchen cabinetry. Although these doors and drawers still contain the accoutrements homeowners need to cook and entertain, new styles, colors and technology have improved the form and function of these elements and are taking the world by storm.
PAST AND FUTURE PERFECT
Thanks to the popularity of HGTV and the Michiana House & Home Magazine, the early 2000s saw the rise of the “dream kitchen” which included cabinetry that featured deep rich stains, raised panels and hardware that evoked a sense of old-world elegance. As the decade wore on, homeowners eschewed the darker shades and details of the past to embrace lighter hues
and cleaner lines. This trend continues today and experts say it’s likely to continue as minimalism dominates the mainstream.
Ervin Miller, owner of E&S Wood Creations in LaGrange, has been making cabinets since 1989 and he said 20 years ago, he used to craft a lot of traditional cabinetry, but in recent years, homeowners are gravitating toward a more flat, shaker or Euro style cabinet with flat finishes, contrasting colors and a mixture of open concept shelving above the counter and contemporary cabinets below.
“Hardware has also changed a lot in the past two decades,” he said. “It’s gone from bright brass to silver and oil-rubbed bronze. Recently, the trend has swung back to gold, but the look has more of a matt finish which people like because it’s easier to clean.”
Steven Eash, owner of Heartland Polymer Cabinets, said homeowners looking for durability in their cabinetry are turning to medium density fiber board components that are covered by a flexible polymer sheet. What were once relegated to garages, basements or other out of the way places are now being found in the heart of the home, especially in areas that are prone to humidity.
“Although there is a learning curve when it comes to polymer cabinetry, after people learn about it, they get pretty excited that this option looks better and with the styles that are available, I think they will only get bigger in time.”
CONVENIENCE COUNTS
Beyond aesthetics, Miller said homeowners are willing to spend a considerable amount of money on convenient cabinet features designed to help maximize their space. From knife drawer locks to organizers, push open and electronic technology, soft close doors, pull out shelving, and more, homeowners are eager to incorporate the elements that make their lives easier.
“It’s amazing how far cabinetry has come in the last 20 years,” Miller said. “In fact, very little is the same as it was before. There are a lot of styles and convenient options available depending on your space and budget.”
Beyond aesthetics, Miller said homeowners are willing to spend a lot of money on convenience and are maximizing their cabinets to get the most from them. n
Need to replace a front door?
Don ’ t skimp when it comes to durability, safety and style
By Dani Messick House and Home Feature Writer
“Front doors are a major aesthetic portion of any house,” Brad Oberg, chief officer for an architectural and engineering consulting firm in Pittsburgh, told HGTV writer Rob Fanjoy. “And in smaller homes, it can also be a major part of the ventilation system. Take the time to research the products.”
Many modern front doors combine several matters, but This Old House writer Don Vandervort claims the door’s surface material is important when it comes to appearance, durability, security and price.
Most older front doors are made from wood or wood veneer, which remains a popular and costly option. In fact, front doors can range from about $150 to into the thousands.
Chris Smith of Keith Smith Construction, LLC says a wooden front door can set you back $5,000$10,000.
Modern wood doors are built to withstand the elements better than those of the past, but they’re not without decay. They come in many options including oak, cherry, walnut, mahogany, maple, fir and pine and provide a classic look.
Fiberglass doors are a good choice for harsh climates and can mimic the look of wood with wood-grain texturing. They’re filled with stiles and rails and polyurethane-foam insulation.
Aluminum doors have a baked-on enamel finish and never require painting and won’t rust. After solid wood doors, though, around $300 to $2,000, they’re the most second expensive option.
Steel doors are best for security and durability. They also don’t expand and contract with changing weather so they don’t crack or warp. They’re usually sold as part of a prehung system, complete with predrilled holes for hinges, so if you don’t need a whole new system, you’ll need to plan for it.
You can and should expect to spend around $1,000 on a new front door, especially after hardware and customization costs. Despite this, choosing the cheapest door could have its drawbacks. With the average front door having a lifespan of 30 years, you’ll want to choose a front door that’s going to be secure and stylish for a long time, rather than one that saves money that you’ll have to replace quickly. n
The focal point of an entryway, your home’s front door may be one of the most important decisions when it comes to the aesthetic look of your home’s exterior.
photos: shutterstock.com
(StatePoint) Looking to beautify your backyard? Read on for five fresh ways to update your outdoor space with just a roll of painter’s tape, a can of paint and a little creativity – and uncover some innovative painter’s tape tricks to make these DIYs super simple.
5 DIY Painter’s Tape Hacks to Elevate Backyard Spaces
1
Faux Throw - Take the patio to another level by adding a painted throw rug onto your decking. Use painter’s tape to outline the size of the rug onto the patio surface to ensure colors won’t bleed or drip outside the project area. Using normal scissors, trim a row of painter’s tape to form a zigzag or wave. Lay out the preferred pattern and paint one section at a time. Go with a simple design with a wash of overall color or let the creativity flow to form something completely unique.
2
Under the Umbrella – Let the entire family contribute to a oneof-a-kind patio umbrella. Using painter’s tape, outline the areas of the umbrella to paint and wash the design in color – use brushes, shapes and even hands to bring the look to life. Go wild with geometric patterns or a layered plaid, or assign each section of the umbrella to a different family member to complete. Color match with outdoor pillows or patio furniture to create a polished finish or bring everything into technicolor with a rainbow aesthetic.
Solids or Stripes – Get funky with shutters or awnings by adding some multi-color elements. Simply tape off the top with painter’s tape and apply paint. FrogTape Delicate Surface painter’s tape is a smart choice for helping add details to freshly painted surfaces (dry for 24 hours) and with the product’s PaintBlock Technology, there’s no bleed, and no wait time to get to work!
Painter’s tape is the perfect tool to help with all your summer paint projects. These simple DIY tricks can get the job done and make you look like a pro!
4
Bright Blooms – Plant beautifully bright blooms in pots and get the color-saturated garden of your dreams. Form a variety of patterns with different widths of painter’s tape and pick paint shades to complement existing patio furniture or throw pillows. Add texture with different brushes or stencils, choose pops of color to contrast with the petals or fresh green leaves, or use a variety of shades to create an ombre look. 5
Backyard Mural – Let the walls do the talking with a backyard mural. Choose a large space like the side of a garage, or even a portion of a wood fence, and let your imagination soar. Map out specific patterns with painter’s tape, or simply block off the section to be painted and be fluid and free. Tape out the design with an edge-treated product like FrogTape Multi-Surface painters tape with PaintBlock technology that ensures super sharp paint lines. Before you begin, get inspired by reviewing the 2024 FrogTape Design Trends created by celebrity interior designer Taniya Nayak. n
Choosing and Installing Plants Expert Landscaping Tips for
(StatePoint) The perfect landscape may start with a healthy, lush lawn, but for interest and depth, you’ll also need to consider the plants that surround it.
Thankfully, it’s easy to make considerable improvements to your backyard life using tips from professionals. Landscape designer Doug Scott has partnered with lawn care equipment manufacturer Exmark, to offer these tips for selecting and installing plants that will beautify your outdoor living areas.
Choosing Plants
• Choose plants well-suited for your specific growing conditions. Knowing your growing zone is important, however you should also be mindful how conditions like sun exposure can change as you move around your yard.
• Choose the right size plants for the space. Bear in mind that what you’re planting today is much smaller than what it will be once it’s matured. Always read a plant’s care label to understand its optimal growing conditions and size at maturity.
• From a design perspective, think in terms of texture, layers and drifts. When addressing the overall texture of your planting beds, choose plants that vary in form, size, color and leaf structure. This will create greater interest, and a space that’s more visually appealing and enjoyable to spend time in.
For a lush look, think in terms of layers when considering composition. Much like in a painting, you should have background, middle ground, and foreground layers. Your background layer should consist of taller evergreen shrubs to provide something alive and green to look at all year long, no matter what’s happening in front of them. Your middle ground layer should be lower than the background layer to create interest, and is where you can add a contrasting evergreen shrub or pop of color with a perennial plant. Finally, your foreground layer should help transition the planting beds to your lawn space. You can accomplish this with smaller perennials, evergreens, annuals or creeping ground covers.
When addressing drifts, read the plant labels to know how large they’ll grow. This can help ensure plants grow in together as they mature, but are not overcrowded.
Installing Them
1. Dig a hole that’s about two times the diameter of the pot your plant’s being transplanted form, and about the depth of the pot.
2. Mend in compost or soil conditioner to give your plant the organic material it needs to thrive. If you’d like, add slow-release fertilizer, and mix well.
3. Place your plant in the hole, making sure that it sits at, or just above, the level it did in the pot.
4. Backfill with soil, stopping to add water when the hole is about halfway full.
5. Fill the rest of the hole with soil, then firmly press down.
6. Soak your plant with more water.
7. Finish by adding mulch, making sure it’s pulled away from the base of your plant.
Scott offers more insights in “How to Choose Plants for Landscaping,” a recent episode of “Done-in-a-Weekend Projects,” an original series from Exmark. To watch the video, visit Backyard Life, which is part of a unique multimedia destination with a focus on helping homeowners make the most of outdoor spaces.
“Now that you have the inspiration and know-how needed to choose and install plant material, you can create landscaping that reflects who you are and how you’d like to live outside,” says Scott. n
around michiana
along the path. New books are ners are the Middlebury Public
Thursday and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
AUG. 1 | WAKARUSA WAKARUSA BLUE GRASS JAMBOREE
A host of local musicians and bands gather to pick, play and sing bluegrass, country and gospel in an informal jam session. Meets the first Thursday of the month.
6:30-9 p.m.
Doc Able Pavilion
116 W. Waterford St. Downtown Wakarusa, 1 block west of stop light. Free Admission, free will offering (574) 862-2200 wakarusabluegrassjam.com
AUG. 10-11 | SOUTH BEND MICHIANA MIDWEST CLASSIC 2024
Pickleball tournament South Bend Racquet Club, 4122 N Hickory Rd, Mishawaka Registration fee is $50 or $45 for members
southbendfarmersmarket.com
p.m. Aug. 20 and 27 at Hidden Lake. Martin’s Landing Shows,
AUG. 16 | ELKHART THE GREAT CARDBOARD BOAT RACE
LaSalle Bristol Pond, Elkhart 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with races starting at 3 p.m.
AUG. 17 | ELKHART JUNK IN THE TRUNK
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Elkhart Moose Lodge No. 599 parking lot
1500 CR 6 West Rain or shine
Trunk sale, find clothes and shoes for the kids.
Keep the home fires burning with a fire pit
By BethAnne Brink-Cox House and Home Feature Writer
It used to be if you were going to sit around a fire, it would be a campfire, a simple circle of rocks and a flat surface of hard packed dirt. The evening campfire before bedtime was always one of the best parts of time at summer camp, whether I was attending as a child/ camper or later as an adult staff member. The smell of woodsmoke, the crackle and pop, it was almost hypnotic!
I don’t remember a lot of homes that regularly had fires in their backyards, and a bonfire was a big thing, and still is for some of my friends and family. (And then, of course, there can be the added bonus of roasting hot dogs or toasting marshmallows for s’mores, which I like to do even if I don’t like to eat them.)
But now there are other safe ways to enjoy a fire in your own
in your backyard
yard. You might decide you would like a wood burning fire pit, or you could go further, eliminate the wood, and have a gas insert. You can have a fire ring, if that’s more to your liking, or even a chiminea, which is a freestanding fireplace that can burn wood or gas, depending on your choice; originally they were terracotta with whimsical, rustic designs. You can get them made of rolled steel or cast iron, with glass doors these days!
Back to fire pits and rings, though. Mark Nunez, who said “I’m the sales guy!” at Warsaw Masonry, explained, “Mostly we sell wood burning pits, which include a sealed ring so it can be converted, so to speak. They can be easily assembled and can be moved, too. We also sell gas inserts.” He further added, “There are all kinds of finishing materials–lava rock, glass, and we can do square, round, and linear shapes. Some homeowners want landscape stones, and a mason will lay stone to match the house.”
And Nunez meant it about all the possibilities. An admiring look at their website showed not only beautiful photos, but
encouragement such as this: ‘We have many Fire Pit Kits available for DIY projects. Stop by and we can show you options in shape, size, color and construction to help make the perfect fire pit!’
From DIY to having it custom built? Nunez said yes, you can go either way, and “It’s about 50/50. I mean, when people put up a $2 million dollar house, they might say, “I want a 50 foot ribbon of fire,” and we’ll make that happen.” So cost isn’t always the deciding factor. I asked Nunez if this was a new trend, or had it been around a while? He thought for a minute, and said, “Well, I’ve been here 20 years, and it’s always been a big thing!”
So which will you choose? Are you the kind of homeowner who really enjoys tackling all sorts of projects, maybe as a family thing? Go for it! When a storm took out our chimney a couple of years ago, my husband converted one of the fallen concrete blocks into a small ‘ring’ (even though it was oblong) just big enough for one or two to sit by in the evening. I like his ingenuity and I do like a fire. n
Over your head
The pros and cons of pergolas and gazebos Which one is right for you?
By Julie Young House and Home Feature Writer
They both provide a much-needed respite on a hot summer day. They both extend a home’s outdoor living space and they both can improve the overall look of a property. However, gazebos and pergolas are very different structures and offer different advantages so it’s important to know which structure is right for you!
Mexican Street Corn Casserole
By Jet Tila; Guy’s Ranch Kitchen
Episode: International Thanksgiving; Copyright: foodnetwork.com
PERGOLAS
With a rich history that goes back at least 3,000 years, pergolas are open-roof structures comprised of columns and beamed rafters that offer homeowners varying degrees of light and shade throughout the day. They can be free-standing or attached to a permanent structure, can be constructed in a variety of styles using a range of materials and are a budget friendly option for homeowners looking for a versatile outdoor living room. Pergolas can also add valuable vertical real estate for plants! On the downside, they provide little-to-no protection from the weather/pests, offer little privacy, often require ongoing maintenance, and there is some dispute as to whether or not they offer additional value to a property. Still, if you are looking for character and charm, a pergola is hard to beat.
GAZEBOS
If you have ever seen the movie The Sound of Music then you know there is nothing more romantic than a gazebo. Like pergolas, these free-standing structures have roots in antiquity and can be constructed using a wide variety of materials including wood and vinyl. Although they are typically round, hexagona, or octagonal in shape, gazebos can be elongated for more to resemble more of a pavilion. Gazebos feature a solid roof as well as at least a partial wall (though this is not a must) which may be solid or more of a deck or lattice look and many include built in seating. Like pergolas, they can be accented with drapes, lights, sound systems and serve as a backyard retreat. Homeowners also use gazebos to conceal other outdoor amenities such as a hot tub, fire pit, outdoor kitchen and more. While they offer folks a 360-degree view of a property, gazebos do require more space than pergolas, often cost more, and are not the easiest DIY project. Gazebos also require a bit more effort when it comes to cleaning and maintaining them, according to experts. However, they tend to be more durable than pergolas.
PLAN AHEAD
Regardless as to which you choose to add to your property, you will want to check with your HOA about any restrictions they may have regarding the size and shape of your structure, and you may need to apply for a building permit as well. If you are working with a contractor, they will be able to help you navigate the appropriate process for your area, but if you are planning to build it yourself, you will need to investigate your local ordinances and follow the appropriate protocol before breaking ground. By identifying your need and evaluating your space, a pergola or gazebo will add versatility and charm to your home and give you years of enjoyment to relax, entertain and get more out of your outdoor living space! n
Casserole Ingredients:
Nonstick cooking spray for baking dish
5-6 ears fresh corn, shucked and kernels cut from cobs
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 Tablespoons canned chipotle in adobo
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic salt
Pinch each of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
6 ounces Cotija cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup scallions
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Chipotle Cream Drizzle Ingredients:
2 cups sour cream
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons canned chipotle in adobo, plus more if desired
Zest and juice of 1 lime
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray
In a large bowl, combine the corn, sour cream, mayonnaise, adobo, chili powder, garlic salt, salt, pepper and 3 ounces Cotija. Pour into a prepared baking dish, then bake 35-45 minutes or until bubbling on the edges.
For the chipotle cream drizzle, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, chipotle, lime zest and juice in a blender. Add more chipotle if desired. Season well with salt and pepper. Place in a squeeze bottle.
Remove the casserole from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with the scallions, parsley, remaining 3 ounces of Cotija cheese and a drizzle of chipotle cream. n
By Dani Messick House and Home Feature Writer
Grilling season is upon us and with delicious smoked foods comes… you guessed it, messy, tough, cleaning.
Not only for safety, but for even cooking, and a long-lasting surface, it’s essential to clean your grill often, if not after every use.
The Home Depot notes charcoal grills are by far the dirtiest and require the most cleaning. As you grill, ash gathers at the bottom of the grill and the build-up can block vents, making it difficult to control temperatures and increase the risk of fire.
Grills should be at least partly cooled before cleaning, but a little bit of warmth can be helpful. Grates can be cleaned with a long-handled, stiff-wire brush. After they’re clean, use a rag or paper towels to apply cooking oil to grates to prevent rust.
In general, charcoal grilling bowls can be cleaned with dish soap and a steel brush, The same can be used for the outside. For stainless steel grills, soapy water should not be used, and instead, they should be cleaned with a stainless steel grill cleaner and a microfiber cloth.
Extend the life of your GRILL with some basic, low fuss maintenance
It’s worth noting Good Housekeeping rates Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner as the best value for a good product. Its quick speed helps to loosen charred-on foods almost instantly and even works on stickier messes. It’s also less harmful than most cleaners, using citrus oils to cut through grease, but it’s not safe for aluminum or faux stainless steel.
The same scoring ranks Rock Doctor Master Grill Grate Cleaner as best for burnt-on grease though and Zep Heavy-Duty Oven and Grill Cleaner as best Heavy Duty Cleaner.
For flattop grills, you can use any of the above cleaning solutions, depending on the materials, and use a grill brush to scrub away debris.
Wipe clean once cooled and towel dry everything. Both charcoal and gas grills must be dried after cleaning to prevent rust. You can also take measures if you have a gas grill to perform regular maintenance to maintain its life at the beginning or end of the grilling season.
For stainless steel grates, heat the grill for about 15 minutes then turn it off and turn the gas off. You can also cover the top with aluminum foil to help burn off any remaining food bits and make scrubbing easier. Clean the grill using a wire brush while still hot, but be sure not to lean over it, as the process will create steam.
If your grates are regular
steel, coat them in vinegar and baking soda to help break down stuck-on foods. Remove the burners from the gas supply line and clear any blockage to the gas ports using a dry wire brush, brushing side to side to prevent pushing debris into ports. Clean the burner valve and run water through the inside of the valve.
When it’s time to put your grill away for the summer, BBQ Guys recommends coating grill grates in a light layer of cooking oil using a spray or rag to help block out moisture over the cooler months. They recommend coconut oil, palm oil, or grapeseed oil which are less likely to go rancid. Heat the grill for a few minutes to vaporize the excess oil to keep it from attracting wildlife.
You can also go the extra mile and wrap burners and disconnected gas lines in plastic wrap or bags to keep creatures out of it and remove any motors or batteries to help prevent erosion or water damage.
If you can, you should store it in a covered or enclosed area. An awning or covered parking area will suffice if you don’t have a garage or shed to keep it in. A grill cover is essential if you plan on leaving it outside over winter as prolonged exposure will shorten the lifespan, so if you don’t have a covered space, invest in a cover. Do not store propane tanks indoors. n
Did You Know?
Although August is a month of transition, there is plenty to appreciate about this odd, and often uneven time of year.
By Julie Young House and Home Feature Writer
AUGUST FUN FACTS:
• In the original Roman calendar, August was known as Sextilis and was the sixth month of the year. It was later renamed for Caesar Augustus.
• August did not always have 31 days. Augustus did not want his namesake month to have fewer days than July (which was named for Julius Caesar.)
• The sandwich was created in Aug. 1792 by John Montagu, the fourth Earl of Sandwich.
• August is the only month without a major holiday in it.
HAVE FUN!
• Break out the telescope and watch the Perseid Meteor Shower which peaks on Aug. 12-13. Visit www.space.com for more information about the best way to watch.
• August is National Picnic Month so why not celebrate it with a day in the park?
• There are still plenty of fairs and festivals to enjoy throughout the month including the Indiana State Fair Aug. 2-18. For more information, visit www.indianastatefair.com
August is a month of change
A new school year has begun, but there is still time to enjoy one last blast before season’s end. There is a need to resume our daily routines, and yet we can’t resist a backyard barbecue. If you are ready to get the most out of this magnificent month, we’re here to help you tackle your tasks, find the best deals and learn why August is the king of the calendar year.
BEST BUYS IN AUGUST
In addition to school supplies and dorm room decor, the month of August is a great time to get end-of-season deals on outdoor products including lawn mowers, grills, patio furniture and more. If you are looking to replace your air conditioner, now may be a great time to do so.
WRAP UP SUMMER WITH THESE HOUSEHOLD TASKS
• Check your washing machine to make sure it is in working order. Don’t forget to check the condition of your hoses for wear and tear.
• Prune dead wood from your trees and tidy up your perennials. (This job will also put you ahead of the game next spring!)
• Clean your gutters. Summer storms can cause muck and debris to clog the works. Enterprising animals may also be living in them, so inspect and clean them before season’s end.
• Get your furnace serviced in time for the first cold snap.
