Cutler Blog
15
Where to Donate Homemade Masks Around Northeast Ohio
Let's be honest — these last few weeks have been tough on everyone.
To say that COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus, has disrupted life around the world is an understatement. Within a matter of weeks, our everyday lifestyles were completely altered in unprecedented ways — so much so that the CDC recommends that all men, women, and children wear protective masks over their mouth and nose when leaving the house. This is, understandably, a scary reality for all of us, but it's an especially frightening way of life that our essential workers have to adopt.
At Cutler Real Estate, we want to support our family members, friends, neighbors, and service workers in the communities throughout Northeast Ohio in any way we can. One way that we can unite and proactively slow the spread of coronavirus is to make, wear, and donate homemade masks. You can make these masks from many items that you already have in your home. Let's go over a few ways that you can make these masks at home, why you can protect yourself by wearing them in public, and how do donate these masks and other vital medical supplies to facilities around Northeast Ohio.
Why Make & Wear Homemade Masks?
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Sadly, there are thousands of confirmed coronavirus cases in Ohio. Until widespread accessibility to testing, more effective treatment options, and a better understanding of the virus itself become a reality, we need to take every opportunity we can to slow the spread. This means practicing social distancing by staying in our homes as much as possible and always wearing a protective mask whenever we leave home.
Although the virus itself is microscopic and can pass through most face coverings, the virus often attaches itself to water molecules that come out of our noses and mouths when we sneeze or cough. Many types of fabric can effectively contain most of these molecules, which means any type of face covering is better than none at all.
While officials ask that all non-medical personnel refrain from purchasing the N95 surgical masks and procedure masks so that our healthcare workers who come in contact with this virus on a daily basis have access to them, the CDC encourages all individuals to make their own face masks. Currently, JOANN fabric and craft stores across the nation have free tools, supplies, and guidance available for anyone wanting to make masks. Many other businesses and organizations around Northeast Ohio are also providing supplies to those who want to join the effort and support the community.
How to Sew a Homemade Mask
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There are two ways that you can make a homemade mask, the first of which is to sew one. Here are the abridged UH-approved steps to make your own (full directions and materials needed available at this link).
- Step 1: Print out a pattern (composed of A and B pieces) and cut them out on paper. Place these paper cut-outs on the fabric and cut out two of the A and two of the B.
- Step 2: Align both A pieces together and sew the pattern together with ¼" seam. Repeat for the B pieces.
- Step 3: Sew the exterior piece of the mask to the interior piece of the mask.
- Step 4: Thread a sturdy wire like a pipe cleaner or paperclips underneath your stitching.
- Step 5: Insert a fabric tie and secure it with stitching.
- Step 6: Insert a filter material such as a coffee filter into the center of the mask between the fabrics.
How to Make a Homemade Mask Without Sewing
An alternative way that you can make a mask is with a simple pair of scissors. While you can use any fabric on-hand, it's suggested that you use at least two layers of cotton. A bandana, old shirt, or pillowcase are good options. You can fold and tie these fabrics around your face, with or without a filter inserted into the center. You can also cut out ear holes or use ties, rubber bands, or other straps to secure it around your face.
Ideally, this fabric will completely cover your face from the bridge of your nose down underneath your chin. It shouldn't restrict your breathing or speaking, but it must be thick enough to prevent water molecules from passing through the fabric. Please also remember to refrain from touching the front of your mask as that could place your hands in contact with the virus, which you could potentially spread to other parts of your face or to others you come in contact with.
Why You Should Make & Donate Homemade Masks
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You have the option of either disposing of your mask or washing it in the washing machine for safe reuse. If you're social distancing, you'll ideally only need to wear your mask a limited number of times throughout our quarantine. Unfortunately, our healthcare workers are constantly exposed to potentially infected patients which means their supply usage is drastically higher.
Believe it or not, healthcare workers in Ohio will use 13 N95 face masks, 14 protective gowns, and 36 pairs of medical gloves while caring for a patient in the Intensive Care Unit over a 24-hour period. As potential new coronavirus cases continue to rise, as well as the daily need for medical care not associated with the virus, our healthcare workers will need more masks than ever before.
Where You Can Donate Homemade Masks in Northeast Ohio
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There are dozens of medical facilities around the area that desperately need masks. Here are a few that you can send homemade masks and other supplies to right now:
- Summa Health System is in need of homemade masks, which can be delivered to their Corporate Office or mailed to their Volunteer Office.
- University Hospitals in need of masks and other medical supplies that can be mailed in or dropped off at various UH locations. Many UH locations also have mask-making materials available for pick-up. They are also sourcing corporate materials and manufacturing capabilities that can be arranged via email.
- Akron's Children's Hospital is in need of homemade masks, donations of which can be arranged through email.
- Cleveland Clinic is in need of medical supply donations which can be dropped off at curbside delivery sites throughout Northeast Ohio.
- Mercy Medical Center is in need of medical equipment donations and cleaning supplies which can be arranged for donation through the Mercy Supply Chain department.
- Aultman Health Foundation is running low on all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and is asking for donations of PPE, materials to create masks, and seamstress assistance in creating the masks. Donations can be arranged on their website.
In This Together
If you know of any other healthcare or frontline facilities that need masks or other vital medical supplies for their essential workers, please tell us in the comments below.
10
Columbus Library: Online Resources at Your Fingertips
Did you know that your Columbus Library card grants you free access to some of the top digital research tools in the world? Many of the best databases and research tools normally require significant subscription fees, but you don't have to worry about that when you have a library card. Delve into 150 years of full-text editions of local newspaper articles, research your family's genealogy, stay up to date with the latest editions of popular national newspapers and magazines, or learn a new language. Best of all, you can do it all from home! Learn more about all of the online resources at your fingertips, with our guide to the free research tools from the Columbus Library system.
Apply for a Card Online
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While you could normally visit any of the Columbus Library system's 22 locations to apply for a card, procedures are currently different while all branches are closed due to COVID-19 precautions. Fortunately, you can still apply for a card online, and online applications are being expedited while the physical library branches are closed. Any resident of Ohio can apply for a free card from the Columbus Library, and you can expect to receive a library card number via email within 48 hours. Your card number will grant you immediate access to all of the online tools offered by the library, and you'll receive a physical library card in the mail when branches re-open.
Fold3
If you're interested in learning about your own family members or discovering the personal stories of prominent military members from history, Fold3 offers a goldmine of military documentation dating back to the American Revolution. With documents sourced from some of the world's most prominent military archives, Fold3 allows you to explore the records, letters, photos, and personal stories of countless military members.
Columbus Dispatch Digital Archives
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Whether you're an Ohio history buff or interested in learning about your own family's local history, the Columbus Dispatch Digital Archives are a great place to start. These archives feature full-text editions of the Columbus Dispatch dating all the way back to 1871, covering the most important local, national, and international stories of the times. For sports fans, these archives are also excellent for learning about your favorite teams, with in-the-moment reporting on the biggest historic games in Ohio and beyond.
US Newsstream
Staying up to date with the latest news and opinions is easy when you have a Columbus Library card, thanks to tools like US Newsstream. This digital resource features newspapers from the biggest cities around the United States, along with blogs, wire stories, transcripts of news broadcasts, and information from news websites. It's all easily searchable, with both graphics and full text available for each source.
Lynda.com
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Looking to use your extra time at home to develop a new skill or advance your professional career? Then Lynda.com, a LinkedIn resource, is the place to be. This website features thousands of online courses on everything from programming to business, web development, and photography. Every class is taught by industry experts, with plenty of support available to help you master valuable new skills.
Explora
Whether your kids love to learn or they're simply trying to complete school work from home, Explora for primary and secondary students is an invaluable resource for learners of all ages. There are databases for primary and secondary students, along with a full database geared more toward adult researchers. Dig into thousands of articles, essays, and primary source documents, on topics that touch every corner of education.
Mango Languages
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Learning a new language is one of those things that always feels like a good idea—right up until you try to work out the logistics of how to do it. Fortunately, tools like Mango Languages exist to simplify the process for learners of all ages and types. With your free access to Mango Languages, you can learn a new language from home at your own speed, through critical thinking, memory, grammar, and cultural exercises.
LitFinder
Have you been meaning to catch up on the classics? Then there's truly no time like the present. LitFinder, a resource from Gale Literature, grants you access to thousands of classic poems, stories, speeches, plays, and essays from some of the greatest authors in history. You can also learn more about the people who created those works, through biographies, photographs, and work summaries.
Hobbies and Crafts Reference Center
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Has there ever been a better time to learn a new hobby from home? The Hobbies and Crafts Reference Center, from research giant EBSCO, is your source for both beginner and advanced tips on a host of popular hobbies. Discover the secrets of beer and winemaking, learn new arts and crafts, find tips for home improvement hobbies, get a greener garden, or help your kids connect with a new hobby of their own. This resource features profiles, videos, and thousands of full-text magazine articles, along more than 13,000 recipes perfect for learning new things in the kitchen.
Price It Antiques and Collectibles
Do you have a pot of gold waiting at the end of a rainbow in your attic or garage? The Price It Antiques and Collectibles resource makes it easy to find out! Billed as the most in-depth pricing tool in the world for art and antiques, Price It makes it simple to search for your items and find out what they're worth on the open market. Even if you're not searching for prices on items of your own, this tool is a great way to browse through interesting antiques and works of art that you may not have seen before, without ever leaving the comfort of your computer or mobile device.
Ohio Online Visual Artist Registry
When you can't go to the art museum, why not bring the art museum to you? The Ohio Online Visual Artist Registry is a robust online collection of visual art, primarily from Ohio artists but also featuring work from artists located throughout the United States. Easily browse thousands of pieces of visual art, with detailed descriptions that tell you more about the artist, the work of art, and the time that the art was created. Everything is searchable, and you can easily bookmark your favorite artists for repeat viewings.
Stay Connected
No matter your passion, digital resources from the Columbus Library make it easy to get lost in researching your favorite topics, and discovering new things. Where will you start first?
8
Northeast Ohio: Stark County Is a Walk in the Park
Are you feeling cooped up at home and need a bit of fresh air? Take advantage of Stark County's beautiful outdoor spaces and go for a relaxing walk. We're surrounded by picturesque trails that offer unspoiled areas where we can clear our heads and forget about life for a while. Spend a few hours strolling these Northeast Ohio walking trails and parks.
West Branch Trail
1305 Stadium Park Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44708
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The West Branch Trail, running along the West Branch of the Nimishillen Creek, is a fantastic trail to walk if you want to get up close and personal with a few Stark County landmarks. This trail is just under four-and-a-half miles long and connects to seven parks, including what once was Mother Goose Land and Covered Bridge Park. Great for running, biking, hiking, or walking your dog the West Branch Trail
Congressman Ralph Regula Towpath Trail Park
Lake Lucerne Trailhead, 7975 Erie Ave. NW, Canal Fulton, OH 44614
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While you may not want to walk the full 25 miles of the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail, you can explore the Congressman Ralph Regula trail at one of 14 trailheads. We suggest taking on the Canal Fulton northern section at the Lake Lucerne Trailhead. This trailhead offers a convenient place to park and walk then cast a line when your return.
Devonshire Park and Trail
4679 South Blvd. NW, Canton, OH 44718
Get off of the beaten path and get close to wildlife at the Devonshire Park and Trail. This trail extends only a little longer than a half of a mile and runs on mowed grass to offer an easy opportunity for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. Fishing is also permitted at this park, but these conservation lands are also great for children to enjoy with their parents.
Hoover Trail
Hoover Community Recreational Complex, 1325 E. Maple St., North Canton, OH 44720
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Although the recreation complexes may be unavailable, you can still find plenty of space to roam on the Hoover Trail. Park at the Hoover Community Recreational Complex and walk along the 5-mile trail that connects with other areas of the Hoover District. Animal sightings are common along this trail during all seasons, so be sure to take it slow and keep your eyes open!
Mahoning Valley Trail
Deer Creek Reservoir, 14514 Price St. NE, Alliance, OH 44601
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If you've ever wanted to get a closer look at the Mahoning River, head over to the Mahoning Valley Trail. You can start your hike on this scenic trail at the Deer Creek Reservoir and enjoy a 4-mile walk over boardwalks, bridges, and along the Mahoning River. There are a few picnic areas around the trailhead as well where you can have lunch as well.
Nickel Plate Trail
2923 Pinevale Ave. NE, Louisville, OH 44641
The Nickel Plate Trail is a great mix of urban and rural landscapes. Stretching four miles with its recently added section, most of this trail is unpaved gravel or unimproved natural surface, making it a little more of a challenge than a typical stroll would entail. There are often horses on the trail, and with private property surrounding much of the area, it's best to remain on the trail and stay visible to other passersby.
Pioneer Trail
2600 Harvard Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44709
Another small trail in the Canton area, the Pioneer Trail is just over one-mile long and takes hikers towards the campus of Malone University. Unlike some of the flatter trails of the area, the Pioneer Trail features inclines and declines throughout, making it a good trail for runners, more active hikers, and bikers.
Sandy Valley Trail and Waynesburg Park Loop Trail
262 Maple St., Waynesburg, OH 44688
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For those who would like to get a few laps in, the Waynesburg Park Loop Trail is perfect. Short and sweet, this trail circles the park. You can add three-quarters-of-a-mile to your exercise by walking the Sandy Valley Trail.
Sippo Valley Trail
2069 Skyland Ave. NW, Massillon, OH 44647
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A much longer trail that connects to the Towpath Trail, the Sippo Valley Trail stretches ten miles. It begins as an asphalt trail but does transition to limestone farther down. You'll walk parallel to Sippo Creek, and most of the trail is relatively flat, offering a simple but long trek between the trailheads.
Iron Horse Trail
1141 W. Beech St., Alliance, OH 44601
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Once a railroad right-of-way, the Iron Horse Trail now offers four-and-a-half miles of biking and hiking space for people and their pets. With a trailhead at the First Christian Church and an adjacent neighborhood, the Iron Horse Trail is convenient for Alliance families to access.
Cook's Lagoon and Trail
1819 Mahoning Road NE, Canton, OH 44705
Cook's Lagoon is a popular fishing hole, but it's a nice walking trail with benches and an easy walk for those who want to stroll at their own pace.
Molly Stark Park
7900 Columbus Rd. NE, Louisville, OH 44641
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Get your fill of trails at Molly Stark Park. In the process of becoming a 35-acre park with hiking trails, gardens, and plenty of outdoor space to explore, Molly Stark Park is a great place to find fresh air close to home. Be sure to research the history and mysteries of the Molly Stark Park building to understand why it was a significant hospital for the treatment of Tuberculosis.
Social Distancing in Serene Surroundings
Where do you love to get away and embrace a nature hike? Tell us in the comments below.
7
Promoting Your Home Online Amidst Social Distancing
With stay-at-home directives and social distancing in place, the real estate market needs to get creative with facilitating the buying and selling of homes. Cutler Real Estate is doing just that by offering virtual open houses that allow sellers to showcase their properties online and enable buyers to get an inside look at homes for sale—all while complying with efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Learn more about virtual showings and open houses, how your home is marketed online, and ways to get your home ready for the best results.
What Is a Virtual Showing?
3
Northeast Ohio: Pick Up Dinner at These Summit County Restaurants
Cooking at home is a wonderful way to try new recipes, but let's face it — no one wants to spend hours in the kitchen after a long day of work! Don't worry — your favorite Summit County restaurants are ready to make your dinner dynamite! Pick up or have dinner delivered from one of these awesome Northeast Ohio eateries.
Blue Canyon Kitchen and Tavern
8960 Wilcox Drive, Twinsburg, OH 44087
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Blue Canyon Kitchen and Tavern will bring their fresh, exciting collections of flavors and food right to the curbside. They offer unique variations on traditional dishes by blending family favorite recipes with ethnic flavors. Let their award-winning chefs set your table. They're currently revamping their menu to ensure that they can provide the best earthy and ethnic meals possible. Give them a call and escape from the everyday leftovers.
BOMBA Taco + Bar
3900 Medina Road, Akron, OH 44333
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BOMBA Taco + Rum will bring the energy and spontaneity of Puerto Rico dance right into your dining room. Featuring dishes from Cuba, the Caribbean, Central and South America, this Latin American restaurant lets you have Taco Tuesday every night of the week. If you're not hungry for tacos, try a Bomba Bowl or Cuban Sandwich. Order a side of chips and house-made salsa to share and be sure to pick up a kid platter for the little ones.
Oak and Embers
7774 Darrow Road, Hudson, OH 44236
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Follow the smoke to the oak, and you'll discover the best barbeque in Hudson. Oak and Embers invite you to stop by and grab a plate of their smoked meat for takeout. Topped with bourbon BBQ sauce and serviced with two smokin' sides and cornbread, their smoked pulled pork, beef brisket, baby back ribs, chicken, and sausage links are sure to please your entire family. We suggest adding the cheddar smashed potatoes, mac n cheese, and apple slaw — and extra napkins — to your order so you can have an amazing barbeque without the prep or cleanup!
Poke Fresh
46 N. Hawkins Ave., Akron, OH 44313
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Hawaiian-born and Ohio-raised, Poke Fresh is fresh, fast, healthy cuisine that you can get delivered instantly. Every member of your family can build their own custom poke bowl: First, choose rice or organic greens as the base then follow it up with a choice of nine different proteins. Top it with fresh vegetables and a little crunch. Finally, choose a sauce and pair it with a bubble tea. A healthy yet tasty option, Poke Fresh also has pre-constructed bowls if you want to sample their best combinations.
Gasoline Alley
870 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, OH 44210
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The one-of-a-kind neighborhood deli and bar is now offering their full menu for carry-out so you can enjoy a taste of Americana at home. You could grab one of the classics like a New York Pastramius Astronmious or a Corn Beefus Gigantus, but we think you should give one of their customized combos a try. Of course, you could always order a few Fat Boy Burgers or a pizza. Whichever you choose, we insist that you add a slice of cheesecake to the order!
Swensons Drive-In
658 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, OH 44310
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In times like these, an old-school drive-in burger joint is exactly what we need. Since the 1930s, Swensons has been there to weather any storm to provide your family with the best cheeseburgers in America. Pack up the car and drive over for burgers, sandwiches, crispy fries, and milkshakes served straight to your car window. Swensons is the best place to grab a bite and get the kids out of the house for a little while.
D'Agnese's Trattoria and Café
566 White Pond Drive, Akron, OH 44320
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Who says you can't have a romantic Italian dinner with a little take-out or delivery? D'Agnese's Trattoria and Café is serving up full dinners complete with beer and wine. They're also offering family style "Take and Bake" meals that you can heat up at home at your convenience. Everything from soups and salads to pasta, pizza, veal, and chicken are yours to bring home and enjoy over a bottle of vino.
Rockne's Pub
7 Merriman Road, Akron, OH 44303
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Rockne's is ready to help you make dinner a breeze with their quick carryout options. As the #1 Casual Dining spot over the last seven years, you can count on Rockne's to hook you and your roommates up with the best pub food in town. Bring home the sampler plate with chicken tenders, mac n cheese bites, wings, drumsticks, onion rings, and fries for everyone to share. If you're dining alone, grab a taco trio, Greek gyro, or sub to keep you full for the night.
Eye Opener
1688 W. Market St., Akron, OH 44313
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Breakfast for dinner? Yes, please! Eye Opener is a mouth opener when it comes to dinner. Their breakfast items are served all day so you can devour a plate of Rubber City Cakes, Red Eye Hash, and waffles no matter how high the moon in the sky is. Of course, if you'd rather have a traditional dinner, Eye Opener won't bat an eye. Their E.O.S. (Eye Opener Sandwiches) and burgers are just as good. If we may make a suggestion, their E.O. Boughnut is back. This deep-fried biscuit with sprinkled sugar and topped with Crooked River jam should be included on every take-out order.
Arnie's Public House
1682 W. Market St., Akron, OH 44313
As much as Arnie's Public House would love to treat you to a round, they're encouraging customers to grab a few drinks to go. While they're gathering your beer order, you might as well order up dinner as well. The APH burger has been a popular to-go item these days, but anything from their full menu is able to be wrapped up for takeaway.
Supper Time in Summit County
Where's your favorite place to grab takeout or delivery? Let us know in the comments!
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