1. art and entertainment
2. dance

PRESORT STD.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 104
CHAGRIN FALLS,
OHIO 44023
“We’re locally owned!”
Serving Every Home in Auburn and Bainbridge
Vol. 9 No.
5
Boxholder
or Occupant
ECR /
Pre-Sort
Spirit of Bainbridge
For the Community • By the Community March 6, 2015
Lynn Fagerholm, science teacher at Kenston Intermediate School who will receive an
Impact Award from the Bainbridge Civic Club on March 15 at their annual pancake
breakfast, is shown with students, from left, Jack Magliettta, Lauren Reding, Gwen
Gembarski and Grace Birch.
Bainbridge Civic Club Selects
Lynn Fagerholm for Impact Award
The Defense Never Rests
Kenston’s Michaela Barnes battles a Nordonia player for possession of the ball
with Emily Lamb (left) and Julie Hajdu defending in the Bombers’ 49-27 loss to
the Knights. Kenston’s girls earned a second place finish in the Chagrin Valley
Conference. Photo by Tony Palmieri of www.chagrinvalleyphotography.com.
Members of Kenston’s class of 2014 perform at last year’s Kenston After Prom
Fashion Show. Photo courtesy of Kenston High School.
Kenston Fashion Show March 13
On Friday, March 13, beginning at 7 p.m., the Robert A. Lee Auditorium at
Kenston High School will be rocking with the annual Kenston Fashion Show.
This popular family-friendly event is a fund-raiser for After Prom and features
Kenston juniors and seniors modeling casual and formal wear from local retailers
as they show off their creative choreography and dance to some great music. This
year’s hosts, Luke Winovich and Josh Heiferling, promise to keep the evening
lively as they introduce the models and offer colorful commentary and comedy.
Tickets are $6 at the door, and all proceeds go to After Prom.
Statistically, prom night is one of the most dangerous nights of the year.
After Prom parties provide a secure place for students to have fun and be safe
after the prom. KHS After Prom offers a drug and alcohol-free party filled with
food, fun, games, entertainment and prizes. It is essentially an “end of the year
party” so all juniors and seniors are encouraged to attend even if they do not
attend prom. Sophomores and freshmen must have attended prom with an upper
classman in order to attend After Prom.
The Bainbridge Civic Club has selected Kenston Middle School teacher Lynn
Fagerholm as the recipient of their Dennis Martin Impact Award, for her commitment and
approach to serving students in the Kenston Middle School Science programs. The Award
recognizes individuals and organizations in our community who represent, through their
actions and steadfast devotion, the values and mission of our club and of our award’s
namesake, Dennis Martin. Award winners have demonstrated a valuable and sustained
commitment to our community, self-less service, dependability, and passion with purpose.
The award will be presented at the Club’s annual pancake breakfast on March 15 at
10:30 a.m. (Other pancake breakfast dates are March 8 and 22.) The Impact Award is
accompanied by a $500 stipend.
Lynn’s efforts to develop children by building student opportunities for science
learning through innovative programs include: Discover E’s Future City Competition,
Kenston District STEAM Night, special STEM and Discovery Days, and various summer
camps, which have helped shape the character and values of many of our community’s
sons and daughters. Her enhancement of this service by attracting local engineers, health
care professionals, and other experts to her learning programs, and inclusion of community
science resources such as the Geauga Park District, local chapters of the American Chemical
Society and the American Society of Materials, are recognized as evidence of passion for
the programs and caring for her students.
Lynn contributes many community hours to: Bainbridge Area Food for Friends, the
Chagrin Falls Park Advisory Board, Bainbridge Civic Club events and Kenston Science
Olympiad competitions. Her work with Valley Presbyterian Church mission and deacon
commissions also make Lynn a role model for her students and the community in general.
The Bainbridge Civic Club, organized in 1941, is comprised of men who either work
or reside in Bainbridge or Auburn and who are committed to provide service and assistance
to citizens and local organizations that support worthy causes in their communities. To find
out more, please visit www.bainbridgecivicclub.org.
Inside this Spirit...
• In an issue such as this one, our writers address timely topics in unique way. For
example, while many of us wrote to issues facing senior citizens, Maureen Donnellon
penned a tribute to the senior dogs in our lives. Don’t miss a single word of it!
• Senior Guide is a valuable resource, whether you are a senior, or caring for an elderly
loved one. Begin the journey on page 25.
• Our Spirit Camp Guide is a sure sign of spring! Plans are underway for warmer temps
and the ensuing fun! Begin the adventure on page 34---and when you book your child’s
summer activities, please tell them you saw it in the Spirit!
Our next Spirit will be delivered March 27.
Editorial deadline is March 13.
Ad deadline is March 18.
Our Spirit Spring Home & Garden Guide
will be included.
Call us today at 440-543-4321 for more information!
SPIRIT of BAINBRIDGE
From Bainbridge Trustees...
A Return to Spring
Hopefully, by the time you are reading this, the sub-zero wind chill days and most of
the snow are behind us. Inevitably though, we will be thinking spring only to get that late
season snow storm…the heavy stuff that bends and breaks branches and causes us to doubt
that warmer weather is soon to come. Picture the daffodils sprouting up through the snow,
the birds chirping and nesting around us, and nature awakening for another year of growth
and life.
Bainbridge Township and its employees and elected officials are similarly preparing
while the cold and snow are still around us. Each of the departments do the day-today business of the township regardless of the weather, but still have the foresight and
commitment to prepare for the post-winter season by reviewing their budgets, planning
the projects, readying the equipment, hiring the staff, and setting the wheels in motion
for upcoming projects. All of the department heads evaluate their staffing and budgetary
needs and make recommendations to the trustees. Each has their own particular project
that requires diligence, preparation and advance planning.
Our Zoning Department continues its work on the comprehensive zoning rewrite and
evaluations of the many ordinances that create our built environment, with the hope of
completing this monumental task by the end of 2015. The Police Department considers
numerous training opportunities that allows it to remain ever vigilant and on top of issues
and situations that could negatively impact us. Fiscal provides each department and
the trustees with accounting, budgeting, insurance, and just recently, human resources
assistance, identifying new laws, trends and processes for all of us to do our job efficiently
and legally! Fire constantly reviews their equipment, training and staffing situation to stay
current with lifesaving techniques. In fact, the trustees are working on a proposal from
the chief and officers to reorganize the staffing situation in the department, considering
a move to incorporate fulltime firefighter paramedics into each shift. It is hoped that this
significant planning effort, in conjunction with a previous study, will yield some decisions
in the next few months.
The most apparent planning effort our residents experience on a day-to-day basis is the
work of the Service Department, yet most of you probably don’t know how this department
came to be and its role today. Twenty-five plus years ago, the township operated a road
department which worked on or facilitated road repair projects, plowed and occasionally
salted (though more often using cinders and sand) streets, cleaned ditches, replaced culverts,
and constantly maintained its equipment and storage yard. A group of residents volunteered
their time to serve on the township’s Park Board and built, maintained, and scheduled
the township’s only park, Settlers Park, ensuring there were baseball and soccer fields, a
picnic pavilion, gazebo and a playground. A part-time cemetery sexton, the caretaker of
the township’s cemeteries, worked with the township’s zoning clerk to sell plots, schedule
burials, and keep the records, on cardboard sheets no less! This same individual was also
responsible for maintaining the township’s buildings, with help from the police and fire
chiefs and the “highway superintendent” (Road Department head).
Three years ago, the township still had a Road Department, responsible for the same
things it did 25 years ago, still had a Parks Board that meets monthly to discuss parks issues,
and still had someone looking after the cemetery along with a resident-based Cemetery
Committee that meets monthly. But it also had new streets, three new parks, many more
buildings, a significant cemetery expansion, and lots of new technology! After several years
of formulating a purpose and process, the trustees hired a Service Director in 2012 whose
primary responsibility is to successfully migrate and manage the roads, parks, buildings
and properties, and cemeteries into one department and one facility. This task, expected to
be fully completed by year’s end, has required considerable patience, deliberate direction,
and more patience!
In the end, the efficiencies of managing budgets, staff, equipment, tasks and work orders,
and facilities under one roof, under a single point of responsibility, will be very beneficial
for all of us as residents. Examples of these efficiencies include “big picture” oversight of
the budgets, combination work forces for numerous and varied projects (from a sign shop
to carpentry projects to road, park, building and cemetery maintenance), streamlined salt
and brine applications, maintenance of vehicles, resident services (recycling center, senior
citizen assistance on our annual Clean-Up Week, document shredding, facility rental, and
event planning…Fourth of July and Bicentennial preparation).
Planning for post-winter projects is a year-round effort and the trustees truly appreciate
each and every employee as they contribute to efficiencies of their respective departments
and for their role and participation in the planning process. We hope you, as residents
of Bainbridge, have an opportunity to observe first-hand the results of our employees’
commitment to proactive management and the run to spring! As always, please comment
on anything that you question, observe, or appreciate so we can work with the particular
department to fix, improve or consider implementing your thoughts. Visit us on the
township’s website at www.bainbridgetwp.com or email us at trustees@bainbridgetwp.
com.
Think Spring!
Your Bainbridge Trustees,
Lorrie Benza
Chris Horn
Jeff Markley
and Fiscal Officer, Janice Sugarman
Try It...You'll Like it!
Enjoy Delicious Pancakes and Support Your Community!
BAINBRIDGE CIVIC AND WOMEN’S CLUB PANCAKE BREAKFASTS
SUNDAYS, March 8, 15 and 22
8:30AM - 1:00PM
Special Tours of Kenston High School
Seniors $6.00 Adults $7.50 Children (5-12) $4.00
ENJOY DELICIOUS
PANCAKES AND SUPPORT
YOUR COMMUNITY!
PAGE 2
www.spiritofbainbridge.com
March 6, 2015
SPIRIT of BAINBRIDGE
7 days a week
winteR houRs • mon-sat • 9 - 5 • sun • 10-4
open
16540 ChilliCothe Road | ChagRin Falls, ohio 44023 | 440.543.5123 | 888.543.5123
sprin
k
n
i
h’t get caught with your pants d g!
T on
ow
n.
d
SPRING GARDENING CELEBRATION
Saturday, march 14 & Sunday, march 15
Some class sizes are limited. See details at www.lowesgreenhouse.com or call 440-543-5123.
saturday, March 14
Landscape School… Design, Install, Maintain • Sat. Mar.14th 10:00-11:00am
Young Tree and Shrub Pruning Workshop • Sat. Mar. 14th 11:30-12:30am
The Basics of Veggie Gardening • Sat. Mar. 14th 1:00-1:45pm
An Introduction to Growing Herbs • Sat. Mar. 14th 2:00-2:45pm
Lawn School • Sat. Mar. 14th 3:00-3:45pm
sunday March 15
Getting Started with Organic Gardening • Sun. Mar. 15th 12:00-12:45pm
Gardening in Raised Beds • Sun. Mar.15th 1:00-1:45pm
Container Gardening Tips, Tricks and Techniques • Sun. Mar. 15th 2:00-2:45pm
Gardening in Deer Territory • Sun. Mar. 15th 3:00-3:45pm
Its not too early to think about spring
landscaping projects.
YES, we will cut your lawn...
get a lawn maintenance quote
Lawn School
Container Gardening
YES, we will weed your landscape beds...
get a quote.
YES, we can prepare a landscape design
for your home... call to set up an
appointment.
YES, we can install your landscape...
get booked early before our spring
schedule fills up.
it’s seed startinG time
Deer Territory
don’t forget our
feathered friends
we have fresh birdseed as
well as all new selection of
feeders to attract birds to
your yard.
• we have everythinG you need to be successfuL
www.LowesGreenhouse.com
March 6, 2015
www.spiritofbainbridge.com
PAGE
PAGE33
SPIRIT of BAINBRIDGE
Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District
Encourages Stewardship through
Conservation Poster Contest
The National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) has proclaimed April 26
– May 3 as Stewardship Week, marking the 60th year of the national event. In celebration
of Stewardship Week, Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District is sponsoring a Poster
Contest. Corresponding with stewardship week, the Poster Contest is themed “Heroes –
Your Hardworking Pollinators.” It is an important time in conservation across the world.
More citizens are showing interest in where their food comes from and the quality of their
soil and water.
Join in our celebration and let your community know about the importance of
pollinators.
The purpose of the contest is to instill in our youth a connection to the important benefit
of protecting our natural resources. All students from public, private, and home schools are
encouraged to enter. Posters must measure between 8 ½ inches x 11 inches and 22 inches x
28 inches and must be submitted to the Geauga SWCD office at 14269 Claridon-Troy Rd.,
Burton, on or before Friday, April 24, 2015. The Geauga SWCD is offering a $30 first prize
and $25 second prize in each category. Categories are by grade and are as follows: K-1,
2-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12. The first place winners in each category will move on to the Area
competition, where they will then have an opportunity to move on to the state competition
and then National.
For information about Stewardship Week and the Conservation Poster Contest, contact
Geauga SWCD at 1-440-834-1122 or www.geaugaswcd.com. Additional information
about Stewardship Week is available on the NACD website at www.nacdnet.org.
BEFORE You Self-Publish...
Words, Ink.
Your effort is too important for errors!
Book Editing • Proofreading
Anne E. Bauswein
440.543.4321
440.478.2950
A52Wordsmith@aol.com
FALLS FLOOR
Gallery
Celebrating
Our 10th Year of Service
in the Chagrin Valley!
HARDWOODS CORK
CARPET
BAMBOO
CERAMIC
LAMINATE
VINYL
8547 E. Washington Street
Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44023
O’Savings
O’Savings
to Be
Be Had!
Had!
to
(Rt. 306 & E. Washington Street)
440-543-1556
Monday - Friday 10-6
Saturday 10-4
Closed Sundays
SALE IN PROGRESS
Call store for details
Bainbridge Library Pages
If you or anyone in your family or special interest group has a special or unusual
collection that cries for exposure, we would love to feature it in the display case in our
lobby. Stop in and speak to someone at the Circulation desk to make arrangements for
displaying your items.
LIBRARY EVENTS
QUILT RAFFLE
Thanks to the Chagrin Valley Quilt Guild’s generous donation of several beautiful
wall hanging-sized quilts, the Friends of the Bainbridge Library is holding a series of quilt
raffles. The second quilt is on display in the library, and entrants can purchase individual
raffle tickets for $1 or six tickets for $5. The winning entry will be drawn on Tuesday,
March 31.
FRIENDS OF THE BAINBRIDGE LIBRARY ANNUAL MEETING
Mark your calendar for Wednesday, April 15 at 7 p.m. After a short meeting, join the
Friends of the Bainbridge Library for a “Lost Cleveland” presentation by local historian
Dennis Sutcliffe. Follow Alan Freed on his journey to Cleveland and beyond as Rock and
Roll is being born. Dance at the Moondog Coronation Ball. Listen to audio clips from
early rock-and-roll stars. Don’t miss this rockin’ event!
You do not have to be a member of the Friends group to attend this presentation. All
are welcome!
AARP tax assistance will be offered Saturdays and Mondays, through April 13. Times
vary; call the Bainbridge Library at (440) 543-5611 to schedule an appointment. When you
arrive for your appointment, bring a copy of your 2014 tax returns, all 2014 tax forms you
have received, all health information/forms concerning the Affordable Care Act, proof of
identity, and your social security card.
If you plan to do your own taxes, the library has books on personal taxes, business
taxes, estate taxes, and strategies for lowering your taxes. Federal and state tax forms are
also available.
YOUTH PROGRAMS
St. Patrick’s Day Party - K – 2, Thursday, March 12 at 4 p.m. Get your green on and
join us for a St. Patrick’s Day party where we’ll play games, read stories and do some fun
hands-on activities.
Construction Craze - Grades 3 – 5, Thursday, March 19 at 4 p.m. Bring out your
inner architect, engineer, and artist! Build replicas of famous structures or create your own
amazing architecture using craft sticks and rubber bands.
It’s Raining…Sharks! - Teen, Friday, March 20 from 7–8:30 p.m. A freak hurricane
brings thousands of sharks ashore in LA and a fearless group of friends struggles to not
become shark bait. Come sink your teeth into this modern cult movie and gobble up some
shark-infested shenanigans.
Easter Egg-stravaganza - Family, all
ages, Saturday, March 21 at 10 a.m. Get
ready for the holiday by decorating eggs at
the library. Bring 2 to 6 raw or hard-boiled
eggs. Learn an easy way to blow out your
raw eggs so you can enjoy them for years
to come.
Twice Upon a Time - Family, ages 3
and older, Thursday, March 26 at 6:30 p.m.
Join the Youth Services staff as they present
their annual puppet show.
ADULT PROGRAMS
Book Discussion - Monday, March 9
at 2 p.m. This month the group will discuss
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline.
The selection for April is The Orchardist
by Amanda Coplin. Copies are available at
the circulation desk and new members are
always welcome!
The Labyrinth as a Healing
Meditation Tool - Monday, March 23 at 7
PREPARATION
p.m. Used as a meditation tool, a labyrinth
combines the imagery of a circle and the
spiral into a meandering but purposeful
path to bring healing to the mind, body, and
spirit. Chuck Sidoti will explain how you
can personally use the labyrinth as a healing
tool. Call to register.
Back-to Basics Gardening: A
Beginner’s Guide to Growing Herbs and
Vegetables - Thursday, April 16 at 7 p.m.
Jeff Griff of Lowe’s Greenhouse will share
what a beginning gardener needs to know
to be successful in growing edibles in pots
or gardens. Even seasoned gardeners will
learn some useful tips. Call to register.
One-on-one drop-in assistance is
available Sundays, 2–4 p.m. for people who
have questions about their smart phones and
electronic devices.
The Bainbridge Library is located at
18900 Haskins Rd.
17222 Snyder Rd. For more information,
Bainbridge
log on to www.geaugalibrary.net.
To
(440) 543-7787
register for programs, call (440) 543-5611.
Follow Bainbridge Library on
iHsta@windstream.net
Facebook.
INCOME
TAX
• Federal
• State
• Local
Cuts and Color
FOR HAIR
Spring is almost here.
Time to think about that change in color.
Maenza's is a fully licensed barber and beauty salon.
SERVING THE CHAGRIN VALLEY AREA FOR 38 YEARS
440-543-5544
PAGE 4
8557 E. Washington, Chagrin Falls
www.spiritofbainbridge.com
iHs Tax &
Accounting LLC
March 6, 2015
SPIRIT of BAINBRIDGE
Isaac Cooper Earns Eagle Scout Award
Isaac Cooper, 15, will be presented with
Scouting’s highest honor at a ceremony on
March 22 at the Aurora United Methodist
Church in Aurora.
In order to achieve the rank of Eagle,
Isaac had to earn a minimum of 21 merit
badges and show leadership by planning,
developing and leading a community service
project. For his project, Isaac restored the
Marian Shrine at the Church of the Holy
Angels on Chillicothe Road in Bainbridge. In
addition to restoring the shrine, landscaping
was designed and put in as well as the
installation of a granite bench for the use of
anyone who wishes to pray at the shrine.
Isaac previously earned Cub Scouting’s
highest award, Arrow of Light, while a
Scout with Pack 102 in Bainbridge. He is
also a member of The Order of the Arrow,
Scouting’s national honor society, and
has attended National Youth Leadership
Training. He has earned 46 merit badges to
date, as well as the Ad Altare Dei religious
emblem.
Isaac attends Kenston High School
where he is a member of the swim and dive
team and baseball team. Isaac volunteers his
time at Hillcrest Hospital and for Bainbridge
Area Food for Friends. Isaac is a First Degree
Black Belt in Kuk Sul Do, a member of the
HAY group, and serves as a cross bearer for
the Church of the Holy Angels.
Fewer than 4% of all scouts earn the rank
of Eagle Scout. Isaac is joining a lifelong
brotherhood that includes many outstanding
Americans including Neil Armstrong, Steven
Spielberg, Walter Cronkite and President
Gerald Ford.
He is the son of Mary and Michael
Cooper of Bainbridge Township and is a
member of Troop 265 in Aurora.
We may not always say it in print,
but we do appreciate your support of Spirit of Bainbridge,
your only locally-owned newspaper.
Thank you!
Isaac Cooper
The Blarney Frog
By Tom Kuby
Ambling along a roadside in Tipperary,
Ireland, three years ago, I discovered a quaint
thatched cottage on a hill. There was a chill in
the air enough to warrant the trickle of smoke
coming from the chimney. A few goats and
sheep meandered in the verdant pasture in the
foreground as a middle aged woman appeared
on the side of the house, carrying a small green
pail and noticed me.
When she saw me approaching the house
out of curiosity, she threw the contents in
the pail over her shoulder, like one feeling
superstitious might do with salt for good luck.
When she did, a large green frog flew with the
flow of water. I stood still, amused.
“Well, come up,” she said in her distinctive
brough. “You saw what happened, did ye?”
“I thought I saw a green frog leap out of
the pail when you tossed the contents over your
shoulder,” I said.
“Indeed you did,” she replied. “And do
you know why?”
“I haven’t the foggiest idea,” I said.
“It’s an old Irish custom. When we see a
stranger coming toward our home, we fetch our
frog-pail and give it the breeze. It’s good luck
for you as well as for me. The leaping frog is
a good omen for those who have good will in
their hearts and we invite them in for a spot of
tea and conversation.
“So, will ye be coming in for some Irish
hospitality?” she asked.
Intrigued, I agreed and took a chair by the
fireside as she poured a mint-flavored brew.
“So, where are ye from?” she asked,
answering with a barrage of Irish proverbs that
ended with what she called the blessings of the
leaping frog and hope: ”May it leap into your
life and bring you joy, happiness and a long
life. It will if you put some of your green on
this plate,” she said holding a saucer with an
image of a green frog tipping his top hat and
surrounding words: a hundred thousand thank
you’s.
As I left the house, feeling pleasantly
conned, I said to myself - like you - this whole
episode is just another bit of Irish blarney.
March 6, 2015
www.spiritofbainbridge.com
www.spiritofbainbridge.com
PAGE 5
EDITORIAL SPIRIT
Spirit of Bainbridge
Mission Statement
Our mission at the
Spirit of Bainbridge is three-fold:
To enhance the Bainbridge-Auburn
area with a positive sense of
our shared humanity.
To be a catalyst of
community pride for local
businesses and assist in publicity
for community-minded groups.
To continue our founding support
of Bainbridge Area Food For
Friends and A Taste in Bainbridge.
SPIRIT STAFF
Anne E. Bauswein
Editor
Melissa Schiller
Editorial Assistant
Matt Blowers
Sally Burton
Kathy Deptola
Maureen Donnellon
Dr. David Fakadej
Kathleen Bliss Goldfarb
Jeff Griff
Noah Gross
David King
Bev Kus
Jo Lindberg
Emily Moran
Dan Murray
Carol Osbourne, DVM
Lisa Parker
Ann Rapisarda
Jess Skoczen
Melissa Schiller
Steve Yingling
Contributors
Susi Kawolics
Tom Kuby
Mary C. Ryan
Anne Swift
Mary Swift
Guest Columnists
Palmieri’s
Fine Art Photography
Photographer
Laura McCune
Victoria Rovder
The Fontanelle Group
Account Representatives
Carla Antczak
Victoria Rovder
Graphic Designers
Betty Franek
Billing
Anne E. Bauswein
John Bauswein
Publishers
PAGE 6
Community Spirit
Bainbridge Swing Dance March 6
Chelsea Reed and the Fair Weather Five play live at Bainbridge
Swing Dance at Bainbridge Township Town Hall, 17826 Chillicothe
Rd., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023) on March 6.
The Swing Dance, with live performance, begins at 9 p.m.,
preceded by a one hour swing dance lesson at 8 p.m. Experienced and
non-experienced dancers are welcome. This public, family-friendly
event is open to all ages. No partner is required for the lesson or the
dance. Admission is $10 per adult, $8 per student or $25 per family.
Admission includes lesson, live performance and dance. For additional
information, please contact Will Craig by calling (216) 316-0068 or
E-mailing willrcraig@gmail.com.
Contra Dances Planned
Troy Township Contra Dance is held at the Troy Community
House, 13950 Main Market Rd., Rt. 422, Burton, OH 44021, every
first Saturday of the month (October through June). This dance is
lively and friendly. No need for prior dance experience. Each Contra
Dance, throughout the evening, is taught through simple instruction
by dance caller Kenny Wilson. Live music by the band “Mr. Haney.”
Introductory dance lesson, by Will Craig, starts at 6:30 p.m. and
the Contra Dance is from 7:30-10:30 p.m. Admission is $8 per adult,
$5 per student, $25 per family and children under six years are free.
For more information contact Will Craig by calling (216) 316-0068 or
e-mailing willrcraig@gmail.com.
GCHS Pancake Breakfasts
The Geauga County Historical Society will hold its annual pancake
breakfasts. The breakfasts will be held in the Lennah Bond Activities
Building on the grounds of the Society’s Century Village Museum in
Burton. Serving hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. each Sunday of March.
All-you-can-eat pancakes served with maple syrup produced from our
own sugar bush. Adults $7, children 5-12 $5, children 4 and under free.
BRC Spaghetti Dinner March 22
The Bainbridge Recovery Club is hosting its annual community
spaghetti fundraiser dinner on Sunday, March 22 from 1–5:30 p.m.
at Centerville Mills Park clubhouse, 8558 Crackle Rd., corner of Rt.
306 and Crackle Road. The meal will include homemade sauce and
meatballs, salad, beverages and dessert. Take-out dinners will be
available. There will also be entertainment and a 50/50 raffle. Tickets
are: adults - $8, children ages 5 to 12 - $5, and children under 5 - no
charge. Pre-sale tickets can be ordered by calling 440-248-8178.
Bainbridge Civic Club April 1 Open Meeting
Featured Spring Clean-Up Tips
Despite heavy snows and teeth-chattering cold, everyone knows
that spring will eventually arrive and that means homeowners need to
think about their yard and gardens.
What better time than to visit with Jeff Griff of Lowe’s Greenhouse
on Wednesday, April 1 when he will brief the Bainbridge Civic Club
and guests on everything associated with spring clean-up. Hear about
fresh landscaping, colorful flowers and the “do’s” and “don’ts” about
renovating your tired yard.
This is an open meeting. Everyone is welcomed. Yes, men bring
your spouse or significant other to this special program, which begins
at 8:00 p.m. at Bainbridge Town Hall. Reservations are not required.
For further information, please call Hadge Hissam, 440-543-5884 or
Chuck Hesse, 440-543-7425. Put us on your calendar.
Bainbridge/Chagrin AARP Chapter #4527
Don’t forget we are still collecting food and paper products for
Bainbridge Area Food For Friends pantry.
For further info, please call Betty Franek at 440-543-4767.
SPIRIT FACTS
The Spirit of Bainbridge is locally owned and operated. The Spirit
is not responsible for the views expressed by its writers. All Letters
to the Editor must be signed and include a daytime phone number.
We will withhold signature upon request. We reserve the right to
edit for clarity or space considerations. Letters are published in the
order received and as space permits.
PHONE: 440-543-4321 Please leave a message! FAX: 440-543-2670
ADDRESS: 18106 Snyder Rd., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023.
E-MAIL: Editorial - spiritofbainbridgeedit@yahoo.com
Advertising - spiritofbainbridgeads@yahoo.com
BAINBRIDGE AREA FOOD FOR FRIENDS: Donations
of non-perishable food and toiletry items, etc., may be dropped off
at Bainbridge Library (lobby bin) or at the pantry (lower level of
Bainbridge Town Hall). Cash donations may be made at PNC Bank,
Bainbridge. If your organization would like to sponsor a food drive,
call one of the phone numbers below. If you or someone you know
needs the assistance of the pantry, call Frank Schnabel, pantry coordinator, at 543-7901 or 708-9829 (leave a message) or call Ruth
Carlton, outreach coordinator, at 440-247-5587.
The local food pantry was founded in 1990 by John and Anne
Bauswein. Bainbridge Area Food For Friends is not affiliated with
Harvest for Hunger or Geauga Hunger Task Force.
www.spiritofbainbridge.com
www.spiritofbainbridge.com
Moms Meetup Group
Chagrin Falls & Surrounding Areas Moms Meetup Group
is the largest and oldest membership-only Eastside mom’s
group on Meetup.com. The goal of the group is for new and
existing moms (with children under age 5) to meet for events,
share information and build relationships. These moms could be
stay at home women or working ladies who want to meet other
people with shared interests. Membership dues are $15 a year.
If you are interested in hearing more about our organization
and/or attending one of our events, you can find us at: http://
www.meetup.com/The-Chagrin-Falls-and-Surrounding-AreasMoms-Meetup-Group/
BNI Meets Every Friday
BNI (Business Network International) meets every Friday
from 7:30-9 a.m. at Home Savings Bank, 7075 N. Aurora Rd.
,Aurora, OH 44202. Call Pam at 330-715-4327 if interested in
coming to a meeting.
Hubs Square Dance Club
We invite you to try Western Style Square Dancing. The
Hubs Square Dance Club is now accepting reservations for new
dancers. Beginner Dances are held each Monday evening at the
Bainbridge Community Church, Rt. 306, just south of Rt. 422,
beginning at 7 p.m. No experience is needed. The Hubs Square
Dance Club invites all ages to participate in square dancing. To
register or for more information call Ray at 440-632-1074 or Joe
at 440-241-2308 or rlmarsch@windstream.net.
New Clevelanders
The New Clevelanders club is a social and philanthropic
organization made up of a friendly and diverse group of women
who are new to the suburbs of Cleveland, east of the Cuyahoga
River. The club offers a wide variety of activities and events on
a monthly basis with something that appeals to almost every
interest. Join us for our next new member coffee held the first
Thursday of every month. For more information please visit our
website at www.newclevelanders.com.
Artisans Sought
The Award Winning Mantua’s Art on the Hill & Wine
Tasting is seeking artisans. The festival will be held on Saturday,
July 11 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Each year, “Art on the Hill & Wine
Tasting” attracts over 70 artisans from the northeast Ohio area
as well as from nearby states. This is an excellent opportunity
to sell and display your handmade works of art. Please email or
call event organizer Christine Pitsinger at communityjournal@
yahoo.com or 330-414-6486 for an application or additional
information.
Letter to the Editor
To the Editor:
On Feb. 1, Geauga Park District hosted an event known as
Frozen Fest at The West Woods park. This event was a fourhour celebration of winter, and what better place to celebrate
than Geauga County, Ohio? Despite the event taking place in
the middle of a snowstorm, the first-ever Frozen Fest drew 1,703
visitors - attendance which we believe to be more than any special
event in Park District history. Positive feedback continues to pour
in, with this event being free to everyone who attended. The entire
day was filled with happy faces and people who were amazed by
all that Geauga Park District has to offer. From the elaborate face
painting to the snowflake sugar cookies to the winter princesses,
the event proved to be quite popular. Seeing this, the staff was
clearly energized to give back and see so many people having
such a wonderful time in the park. The afternoon also included
65 snowshoe rentals, which are still available free of charge every
day of the week between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at The West Woods
Nature Center.
Additionally, 100 regional artists contributed to the Frozen
Artistry Community Art Exhibition, featuring 335 portrayals of
winter as Nature’s art form. This display remains at The West
Woods Nature Center through April 19. Many thanks abound,
especially to our steadfast corps of volunteers. I also want to
express a big thank-you to our staff. Their success is the result
of a recent reorganization and realignment of quality people with
quality skills. Their passion, excitement and desire to do a great
job on this event is definitely recognized. I can tell you they are
looking forward to the next big event.
Finally, I want to thank the attendees. We are proud to serve
you through new and exciting initiatives. In a time of speculation
and fear mongering associated with “take back our parks,” it
is nice to see positive people prevail who recognize a common
sense approach to park utilization. Our Geauga Park District is
better than ever. We will continue to welcome all county residents
of every age, every ability, and at all times of the year to come
Connect with their Geauga County Parks.
Thank you for your continued support for your Geauga Park
District and the quality services and programs we provide. We
look forward to serving you now and in the future.
John Oros
Geauga Park District, Interim Director
March 6, 2015
SPIRIT of BAINBRIDGE
Winter Glory
By Sally Burton
As we sit in the middle of the coldest snap I can remember, I am searching for positive
things to write about. I want to ride my horse, but it is way too cold for that. I want to
hike with my dogs, but their paws do not do well on the frozen turf. I would like to hike
by myself, but am getting to the age where I worry about slipping and falling on the ice.
Wanting to stick with my resolution to always look for the positive I have come up with a
list.
So what is there to be happy about?
*Wearing thick, snuggly sweaters
*The taste of chili or homemade soup after being out in the cold
*The warmth of my small house when I walk in the door
*The absolute beauty of the snow as it sparkles in the moonlight
*The smell of baking cookies that permeates the house
*Jumping into bed with two dogs who like to sleep really close
*Lying on the couch under blankets watching movies
*Watching kids sled ride with huge smiles
*When the phone rings and the caller says….Snow day (or cold day!)
*Knowing all the insects and germs can’t survive the cold
*Watching the snow fall when I am safe inside
*The brightness of the stars on a clear, cold night
*Comparing who got the most snow over night with my relatives
*Bundling up and actually being warm
*Changing into comfy sweats and sweatshirts after work
*Knowing there is no good reason to go out into the cold once I get home
*Fluffy socks on my feet
*The barrenness of snow that has not been trod upon
*Snowmen, snow women and snow forts
*Trees covered with ice or snow glistening
All in all I guess winter isn’t too bad! But here’s hoping spring comes soon!
KCE Open Mike Night
Kenston Community Education, in association with Matthew F. Blowers III and
Emerick Gordon, who are both resident poets, songwriters and musicians, is offering an
Open Mike Night on Thursdays from 7-9:30 p.m. at the Auburn Town Hall, on the corner
of East Washington St. and Auburn Road.
This event is for all talented children, teens and adults to showcase their songs,
dancing, poetry, comedy, musical instrument ability, juggling, and or any other talents that
they wish to share.
Spectators are welcome, but seating is limited to 50 occupants. This is a community
outreach program to highlight the talent in the area, and give them a venue to perform and
polish their work. Teachers are welcomed to encourage their students to perform publicly.
There will be a $2 cover charge at the door. There will also be a sign-up sheet to determine
the order of the performers. For more info please call 440-543-1737.
BG 55
HANDHELD BLOWER
14995
MS 170
CHAIN SAW
17995
$
$
16” bar †
“This blower is very reliable, has
good power and is pretty
darn tough.”
“Can’t say enough about this
product--well made, great power,
reliable, and just gets the job done.”
– user Kendall13
– user WNCChip
Check out these reviews and others on the product pages at STIHLdealers.com
JOIN US.
Available at participating dealers while supplies last. †The actual listed guide bar length can vary from the effective cutting length based on which powerhead it is installed on. © 2015 STIHL BES15-121-120149-1
Chagrin Pet & Garden Supply
188 Solon Road | Chagrin Falls
440-247-3118 | ChagrinOutdoors.us | ChagrinOutdoors.com
Indicates products that are built in the United States
from domestic and foreign parts and components.s.
March 6, 2015
STIHLdealers.com
www.spiritofbainbridge.com
PAGE
PAGE77
SPIRIT of BAINBRIDGE
Awakening Beauty - Guatemalan Smiles
By Debra Classen
I settle into my seat, anxious, excited, anticipatory and grateful—all at the same time. I
look out my window to watch the sunny landscape of Dallas, Texas, become a mere speck
and then finally disappear under the clouds. I grab my husband’s hand and give it a squeeze
of gratitude, before settling back. Most of the passengers on board are doctors, nurses,
dentists and medical clinicians from Michigan, with only seven of us from Cleveland who
join this year’s team of Michigan HELPS International. Over 100 people are traveling to
a village in Guatemala to provide health care to families who will receive only this once a
year (or less) provision of medical intervention of any kind.
My anxiety is all the unknowns, everything is new. Although I know this is a medical
mission, I also know I am not a medical person. I have never been at my best when observing
blood, or vomit, or…well, you get the point. I consider one of the great attributes of my
husband, which I will be forever grateful for, is his ability (willingness?) to clean up vomit
or ‘whatever’ (unidentified appearance of a ‘pile’ coming forth from a child or pet) when
sickness happens. This is only one of many concerns, along with my first time visit to a
third-world country. I wonder, “What will it be like?” because I cannot yet imagine; I have
spent all of my life and most of my travel in two states: California and Ohio. And there is
the fear of humiliating myself on various levels; sleeping in a room full of cots with lots of
other people and in a semi-conscious state talking in my sleep, snoring, etc. My husband is
used to this by now, but other people? And lastly--my awful morning stagger to the coffee
pot, not a pretty sight.
On and on I run through the list of worries; health issues of my own worry me because
I didn’t want the helping/being helped to go in the wrong direction, but I will discover that
I was the one who received the gifts. Then there is also the whole communication issue,
I vaguely remember some high school Spanish from decades ago. I have days when my
pronunciation of English flounders, even sober. Spanish really is a non-issue, because I am
not going to learn it during the flight down and here too I will learn the language of love
can be spoken anywhere.
I attempt to push my worries aside, it is time to trust in God. I settle in, not because of
this swirling mass of questionable ‘helping’ tools I possess, but because I am tired and want
to sleep. Almost drifting off into a dream state where I was a helping dynamo of Spanish
medical gifts, I am awakened by the pilot’s announcement. We are barely an hour into the
flight and it seems we are going back to Texas, a volcano has erupted, spewing volcanic
ash in and around Guatemala City and closing the airport...and so begins one of the greatest
trips of my life.
Three days and three countries later I settle into a seat on a bus, which is slowly
winding its way up a steep mountain in a dense fog and encroaching darkness. The stop in
San Salvador had given me two stamps on my previously unused passport and I am proud
of earning these stamps, due to volcanic eruption. Tuesday night we arrive in San Mateo,
to greetings from the earlier arrivals who had worked tirelessly to set up the make-shift
hospital-- everything is ready for tomorrow morning.
In the morning I meet Lu and it is her enthusiasm, smile and humor that sweep me
into the benevolence and warmth of her friendship. Her well spoken English and Spanish
help acclimate me to the people and the work. Lu is a teacher and brings 10 high school
interpreters from Guatemala City on four mission trips each year. The students amaze me;
bright, responsible and focused, they have tremendous responsibility. They will work all
week, alongside patients and team, interpreting and explaining even medical terms between
doctors, nurses and their patients.
At an elevation of 7,000 feet, the sun is shining and a cool breeze blows. The wisps
of clouds are strewn across the jagged, indigo cutout of sky, butting up against an outline
of mountains. Today, I am assigned to triage, or processing patients. The colorful, winding
line of tiny Mayan people has been forming for two days, as families walk or take a bus to
get to the makeshift hospital. Beautiful women in colorful weavings of skirt and blouse,
with crests of head-dress, scarves and ribbons tied in their braids, appear like tropical birds
with brilliant plumage. Adult children accompany elderly parents, women carry babies in
papooses, holding another child by the hand. Men come in work clothes, their faces creased
by life and laboring in the sun.
The day flies by and I learn that we had processed 300 people into the clinic. The team is
working to make up for the two days we lost and the flow of processing is almost seamless.
I am amazed by the team’s compassion and hard work, and the beauty of the Guatemalan
people. Although I have minimal words of mutual understanding to communicate with, the
smiles, touch of a hand and dark, penetrating eyes of a baby peering over the top of the
papoose communicate something easy to understand in any language.
From Tuesday until Sunday, we are immersed in another world, another time and place.
One day processing patients, the next day on a bus heading further up into the mountains to
visit simple homes to install stoves for families who have cooked their meals over an open
PAGE 8
Original Artwork by Debra Classen
fire on a dirt floor. Everywhere people are cooking, building stoves, visiting an orphanage,
helping a patient in recovery, playing with the children, an entire community formed and
breathing for a week, before it will all be disassembled and everyone will return to different
lives. There is not time, nor need for worry over what to do, how to communicate; the
extraneous has been removed and we each a part of this whole, a part of humanity.
Years, even decades of studying theology, had not revealed to me the beauty of the
Gospel message in the ways the simple beauty and goodness of these people’s lives are
evident. Materially impoverished, they are rich in family and faith. The simplicity of their
beauty lies, not in their doings, but humbly in their being. It is not formed by the emergence
of a beauty that is attained, it is created by the Creator. We each have this invitation to
live and to be in the world and to know our place of love in it too, yet how easily we are
distracted from this truth. The awareness of this moves over me, like the clouds sweeping
over the mountain, forming the outlines and beauty of the souls of these people.
I learn too, about our dependence on one another, the integrity of each of our lives
is created by the interworking, the weaving together of care, generosity and love for one
another. Different lives, different gifts, culture, language, country…flow together in a
rhythm of kindness, human gentleness. I remember Mother Teresa’s words, “I am only
one small drop in the ocean, but without that drop that ocean would be less.” Sixty-two
dental visits, almost 1,000 clinical visits, and 131 surgeries make up a part of the whole
of changing people’s lives, but there are also the touch, prayers, words, people who cook,
change Band-Aides and comfort, that are an immeasurable part of it too. It is an experience
of the beauty of people that awakens me, and yet I am surrendering at the same time, to an
embrace I trust.
It is not the heart-wrenching poverty that is beautiful, because poverty is struggle and
need, hunger and sickness; instead it is the invitation to surrender and trust in the source
of life that radiates, revealing secret springs of faith and courage. We all must trust in our
“daily bread.” All my concerns, worries and fears on the plane had not made it to this
village. I didn’t realize it at the time, but for one week, I had surrendered to life, and each
moment had been the prayer.
It wasn’t just the people of Guatemala, it was the people who came, who have come in
the past and will come again. It was a group of people who integrated their gifts, lived their
faith in a God who is goodness, truth and beauty. These people were all walking around
“shining like the sun,” radiating the original creation of their lives by the Divine Artist. And
as I so often find when I surrender to God, God will always outgive the giver. For the first
time in a long time, or perhaps for the first time in my life, I understood why God came as
a human being. He came to reveal the divine spark within each of us.
www.spiritofbainbridge.com
March 6, 2015
SPIRIT & FAITH
Symbols of Lent
Valley Lutheran Church will host Morning Lenten Devotions on Wednesdays through
March 25 from 9:15-9:45 a.m. Start your morning right with a brief devotion led by Pastor
Jeffrey Stephens as we explore the ‘Symbols of Lent.’
Come a few minutes early, sit in the warmth of the sanctuary and let the music wash
over you. There will be a Children’s Message for our preschoolers, and an Adult Message
that follows, with prayer and meaningful music. Afterwards, we hope you’ll enjoy some
refreshments and fellowship. Valley Lutheran Church is located at 87 E. Orange St. in
Chagrin Falls, right across the street from the Cuyahoga County Public Library. For more
information, call 440-247-0390 (x201).
Music in a Sacred Space
“Music in a Scared Space’ will be presented Wednesday, March 11 at 7 p.m. at Church
of the Resurrection, 32001 Cannon Rd., Solon.
Chamber music for strings and winds, featuring members of the Cleveland Orchestra
will be presented, including music from Mozart and Nielsen, culminated by the Schubert
Octet. The event is open to the public. Free will offering. Reception to follow.
VALLEY LUTHERAN CHURCH
And Valley Christian Preschool
87 E. Orange St., Chagrin Falls • 440-247-0390 • www.valleylutheran.org
SUNDAY SERVICE TIMES
9:00 a.m. Traditional Worship
10:30 a.m. Contemporary Service & Children’s Sunday School
ST. JOHN
FUNERAL HOME
Celebrate Passover with Seder in a Box!
The Jewish Federation of Cleveland and Jewish Education Center of Cleveland (JECC)
announce the launch of a new initiative called jHUB, a central resource for interfaith
families to connect to each other and to Jewish Cleveland through social gatherings,
holiday experiences, and Jewish learning in an open and non-judgmental environment.
According to the Greater Cleveland Jewish Population Study, 38 percent of Jewish
Cleveland’s married households are interfaith, and 13,000 adults in an interfaith family see
value in being connected to the Jewish community. jHUB will help interested interfaith
families find their place in Jewish Cleveland.
“Every person is a valued member of our community. At jHUB, we embrace all
kinds of Jewish families, and help them connect to Judaism in their own way,” said Rabbi
Melinda Mersack, Director of jHUB, who understands that interfaith families face unique
challenges.
For some families, celebrating holidays can be difficult, noted Mersack. jHUB is
proud to embrace all interfaith families during the Jewish holiday of Passover with Seder
in a Box, a free package that contains all the resources needed to hold a meaningful and
fun Passover Seder. Each Seder in a Box will include Passover recipes, a Seder Plate (ritual
plate), Haggadah (the story of Passover), and more. Interfaith families may order a Seder
in a Box at www.jewishcleveland.org.
For more information about jHUB or to order a Seder in a Box, visit www.
jewishcleveland.org or contact Rabbi Melinda Mersack at mmersack@jecc.org or 216371-0446 x232.
By Jess Skoczen
Also in Bedford
923 Broadway Avenue
Bedford, OH
PH: 440-232-1155
FAX: 440-439-1840
*Chuck, Lois, *Sue
and *Chris St.John (*Licensed)
Heroes
• Customary Funeral Services
Every good movie has a hero. Someone to serve and protect people. But, what is a
good hero without a good villain? You need a villain in the story, otherwise the story itself
would be very boring. But not very many villains are given as much love as the hero.
One of my favorite Disney villains is Hans from the movie Frozen. I have to admit,
for a cartoon character, he’s kind of cute. He’s very smart and cunning and if he used his
power for good and not evil, he might actually be a pretty good prince. When he revealed
his evil plan, I was very surprised, so I cheered when Anna and Elsa kick him to the curb.
Plus, it was awesome.
Magneto is my favorite X-Men villain. He’s smart, stubborn, but also very
misunderstood. He has a dark past, and because of that, he despises all humans. His real
name is Eric Lensherr, but his code name is Magneto because he has the power to control
anything metal. He strongly believes that all humans want to do is get rid of mutants like
him, so he builds an army to stop them.
The only person who understands him is
his long time friend Charles Xavier, who is
very much like his conscience. I can talk
about these guys forever! I love Magneto’s
character because I understand how he
feels, that some people are scared of you
when you are different. But he also should
be more trusting and not so quick to judge
people.
One of the best and funniest villains
would have to be Gru from Despicable
Me. Now I know what you’re thinking.
Technically he’s not a villain, but he was
when we first met him. He had all kinds
of cool gadgets like the freeze ray and
his cookie robots, and he even had a cool
lair where he had evil meetings with his
minions. Minions are little yellow guys
that speak gibberish but they are the
funniest, if not cutest, ever! Yes, they are
not the sharpest tools in the shed but what
they lack in brains, they make up for in
comedy relief.
There are so many great villains we
love to hate. It’s one of the reasons we love
movies so much. Without a good villain
in the movie, the movie would be boring.
Sometimes when we have bad days and all
we want to do is blame everyone else, that’s
when we become the villain. But, then you
can also become the hero in your situation
because you have to decide what the best
choice is. When the situation comes to an
end, hopefully it’s a happy ending.
We all have a hero and villain side.
It’s just a matter of which side we use
more often. Who are some of your favorite
movie villains?
March 6, 2015
New Bainbridge Location
16381 Chillicothe Road
Bainbridge Township, OH
PH: 440-708-1855
FAX: 440-708-1308
Serving all
Faiths, Nationalities and Races with
Kindness, Dignity & Compassion
• Cremations
• Direct Burials
• Out of State Transfers
• Accomodating Facilities
PRE-NEED
FUNERAL PLANNING
www.spiritofbainbridge.com
• Very Ample Parking
• Grave Markers
and Monuments
PAGE 9
SPIRIT of BAINBRIDGE
Is It Spring Yet?
By Jeff Griff
Linda Cain
First Vice President
Financial Advisor, CFP®
Personalized and Caring Advice
• Understanding you and your expectations
• Developing a customized strategy
• Implementation, analysis and communication
Integrity is the foundation of everything we do at The Cain
Group at Morgan Stanley. Personalized and customized
service is what distinguishes us from our peers. We feel that
communication is imperative to a successful relationship for
sound investment planning.
31099 Chagrin Blvd.
Pepper Pike, OH 44124
Office: 216-360-4900
Direct: 216-360-8637
linda.cain@morganstanley.com
morganstanleyfa.com/linda.cain
Certified Financial Planning Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification and marks CFP®, Certified finanCial PlannertM and federally
registered CFP (with flame design) in the US., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and
ongoing certification requirements. ©2014 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
How many times have you heard someone say “It’s 5:00 somewhere” as an excuse to
consume adult beverages during the daytime? Well, we are only a few days away from
the first day of spring so we don’t need any excuses to get outside and begin to get some
early gardening chores done.
Provided the weather is above freezing, this is an ideal time to prune your landscape
and orchard plants. Most of your trees and shrubs will benefit from dormant pruning.
That is, pruning done before the plants begin to grow in the spring. Proper pruning offers
many benefits to your landscape/orchard plants; extended life span, increased flower/
fruit production, enhanced appeal and a more orderly appearance. Like so many other
tasks, before you start pruning, know what you want to accomplish. Proper pruning (for
ornamental shrubs) is the selective removal of branches in an effort to maintain the plant’s
natural appearance or habit of growth. Shrubs and/or trees trimmed to an artificial size or
shape require more pruning than shrubs pruned to keep their natural shape. Pruning for
fruit bearing plants is designed, not for appearance, but for maximum production and ease
of harvest.
Proper pruning is not difficult but does require a base of knowledge in order to obtain
optimum results. If you are interested in learning more about pruning specifics, be sure to
join our Pruning workshop at Lowe’s Greenhouse on Saturday, March 14.
We are still a few weeks away from having to cut lawns again but there are some
tasks we can get taken care of early. We can get out there and pick up the fallen sticks
and branches that are seemingly everywhere. It is still too early to think about crabgrass
or weeds but it is a good time to sharpen the blades on the mower, check the belts and
fluid levels so you can be ready for April. For more information about lawn care join us at
Lowe’s on March 14 for our Lawn School.
We are entering the time of year when the danger of deer browse is at its highest
level. Many of the natural food sources deer seek have been exhausted leaving your
luscious landscape plants as the only remaining option. Be sure to protect your plants
with repellent sprays and/or physical barriers such as mesh or burlap wraps. For those of
you who have experienced extensive damage, you may want to consider utilizing more
deer resistant plant selections for future plantings. We have a Gardening in Deer Territory
lecture on Sunday, March 15 if you are interested in more information.
We are closing in on the time we can begin to plant our early season vegetable crops.
Peas, potatoes and onion sets are examples of some vegetables that can be planted as early
as mid-March provided the snow has gone and your soil has been prepared. If you are a
beginner gardener or looking to learn more details about gardening with edibles you will
want to check out Gardening in Raised Beds, The Basics of Veggie Gardening and Getting
Started with Organic Gardening classes all being held on Sunday, March 15.
It may not be spring quite yet but it is coming very soon so now is a great time to get
the gardening season off to a good start. By getting some of these early tasks taken care of
now, you will lighten your load making spring more fun and less stressful. By gathering
more information, we can all have more fun in the garden and be more efficient in our
gardening efforts.
Now go outside and have fun in the dirt.
Sports Camps, Enrichment Camps and MORE!
Register TODAY for a Summer FULL Of FUN
www.kenstoncommunityed.org
440-543-2552
PAGE 10
www.spiritofbainbridge.com
March 6, 2015