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22
How to Support Columbus Organizations With Mask Donations
COVID-19, typically referred to as the coronavirus, has impacted every aspect of our daily lives. Social distancing and quarantine-appropriate behavior have forced many of us to work, study, and spend all of our free time at home. Even with plans to begin re-opening the state in May, the CDC is still encouraging all individuals to wear protective masks when in public. Our healthcare workers, emergency personnel, and other essential workers have an even greater need for personal protective equipment (PPE).
At Cutler Real Estate, we consider the health and wellbeing of our family members, friends, and neighbors throughout the community to be a top priority. In these unprecedented times, we must come together and do our part to reduce the risk of spreading the coronavirus around Columbus. By making, wearing, and donating homemade masks, we can decrease our chances of spreading or contracting this virus.
The Importance of Masks in Fighting COVID-19
The coronavirus is a microscopic virus that is small enough to pass through nearly all facial coverings. However, when someone infected sneezes or coughs, the virus attaches itself to water molecules before leaving the body. Facial coverings made of nearly any fabric can effectively contain these water molecules, essentially providing a significant element of protection that everyone has immediate access to.
The masks that are most effective at preventing the spread of coronavirus are N95 surgical and procedure masks, which are typically used in healthcare settings. Although these forms of PPE are available for the public to purchase, government officials are asking that these masks only be reserved for healthcare workers who are constantly at risk of coming in contact with infected individuals. However, all other non-medical individuals can create homemade face masks to wear or donate to others in need.
How to Make a Homemade Mask Without a Sewing Machine
For a quick and easy no-sew way to make an effective mask using materials in your home, refer to these instructions provided by the Center for Disease Control.
Steps for a Bandana Face Mask
- Fold a square bandana in half.
- Fold the top down to the center and the bottom up to the center.
- Feed the folded bandana through two rubber bands or hair ties.
- Fold the ends of the bandana to the middle and tuck them into the bands.
- Place the mask across your mouth and hook the bands around your ears.
Steps for a T-Shirt Face Mask
- Cut across the stomach of a t-shirt roughly 7-8 inches from the bottom.
- Cut a rectangle out horizontally in the center of the shirt about 6-7 inches in.
- Cut the edges of the open side to make tie strings.
- Tie one of the tie strings around your neck and the other around the top of your head so that the cloth covers your nose and mouth.
How to Sew a Homemade Mask
If you're interested in sewing your own mask, the CDC also offers guidelines. For this task, you'll need a sewing machine, scissors, a needle and thread, two pieces of elastic-like rubber bands or hair ties, and two pieces of cotton fabric measuring 10"x6".
- Cut the 10"x6" fabric pieces out of a large cloth such as bed sheets or blankets.
- Place them together and fold over the long sides ¼" then hem. Fold the fabric over ½" over the shorter sides and stitch them down.
- Thread the elastic through the openings on the wide side and tie each side in a knot to create ear holes.
- Place the mask over your nose and mouth, adjusting as needed.
Keep these tips in mind when using homemade cloth masks:
- The mask should fit snuggly without restricting your breathing.
- They should be made of multiple layers of fabric.
- They can be washed and dried in the washing machine and dryer without incurring damage.
Columbus Donation Locations
If you have the time and materials, please consider making extra homemade masks to donate to those in need. Here are a few organizations around Columbus that are accepting donations of PPE.
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
410 W. 10th Ave., Columbus, OH 43210
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The OSU Wexner Medical Center is accepting donations of unopened medical items such as hand sanitizer, gloves, gowns, shoe covers, and N95 masks at their donation center. - Mount Carmel Health Corporate Service Center
6150 East Broad St., Columbus, OH 43213
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Mount Carmel is currently accepting unopened medical supplies, including N95 masks, gowns, gloves, hand sanitizer, and sanitizer wipes. - OhioHealth Columbus Donation Center
830 Kinnear Rd., Columbus, OH 43212
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OhioHealth is currently accepting donations medical equipment, including medical coveralls, face shields, disposable lab coats, catheters, HEPA filters, and exam gloves, as well as hand-sewn masks and headbands. - Franklin County Emergency Management and Homeland Security
5300 Strawberry Farms Blvd., Columbus, OH 43230
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FCEM&HS is accepting medical PPE like surgical masks, viral swabs, gowns, and gloves, as well as handmade masks donations. - YWCA of Columbus Ohio
65 South Fourth St., Columbus, OH 43215
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The YWCA of Columbus is seeking donations of medical disposable face masks, disposable gloves, and hand sanitizer in addition to their traditionally requested needs. - Ohio Department of Health
246 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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The Ohio DOH is accepting donations of vital medical equipment as well as any other services or resources that can be offered to assist the state and benefit all Ohioans.
Helping Frontline Workers
If you know of any other healthcare or frontline facilities accepting donations of homemade masks or other critical PPE, please let us know 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?
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?
1
Columbus: Curbside Pickup Never Tasted So Good
With restaurant dining rooms shut down all across the state, it's more important than ever to support our favorite local restaurants by ordering takeout meals when we can.
When you need a break from cooking at home, curbside pickup or delivery is a great option. There are many excellent Columbus restaurants that remain open and are offering these services. Here are a few that we recommend.
Ambrose and Eve
716 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43206
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Popular local restaurant Ambrose and Eve has teamed up with their sister restaurant Preston's to serve family-style meals like pasta, pizza, and fried chicken, as well as their ever-popular burgers and fries.
Check out their Facebook page where you can see their menu and updates. When you're ready, place your order by calling 614-725-2080.
Bonifacio
1577 King Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
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Craving modern Filipino fare? Check out the $10 meals, extras, and desserts at Bonifacio. This popular restaurant is offering delivery and takeout from 11 am until 7 pm. They're also giving 15% discounts on your first order of $20 or more.
Check their website or Facebook page for their current menu, then order online or give them a call at 614-914-8115.
Lindey's
169 E. Beck St., Columbus, OH 43206
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A long-time favorite among locals and visitors alike, Lindey's is offering food and wine for takeout. They're also providing free delivery in certain areas. This eliminates the need to pay third-party delivery fees!
In the mood for Lobster Bisque, a filet, or some Creme Brulee? They've got your covered! Check out their Facebook page to keep up with their latest specials. You can place your order by calling them at 614-228-4343.
Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
4080 Worth Ave., Columbus, OH 43219
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Want to enjoy a delicious craft brew with your dinner? Forbidden Root Restaurant and Brewery is offering a full to-go menu of their beers and family-style meal packages. You can get your order through delivery, takeout, or curbside pickup from 11:30 am until 9 pm.
Check out their website for the current menu offerings. Note that you must order your meals ahead of time — no later than 10 am for same-day delivery. You can place your order by emailing amy@forbiddenroot.com or by calling (614) 414-4127.
Jiu Thai Asian Cafe
787 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH 43214
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For Thai favorites from noodles to spicy curry and even bubble tea, you can't beat Jiu Thai Asian Cafe. They're currently offering takeout and free delivery within a 3-mile radius. Check their website for their current menu offerings and order by giving them a call at 614-732-5939.
G. Michael's Bistro & Bar
595 S. 3rd St., Columbus, OH 43215
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With a focus on local, seasonal food, G. Michael's Bistro and Bar always delivers a superb dining experience. Check out their website for the current daily specials, including weekend family dinner specials.
The restaurant is currently open for carryout and delivery. They start taking preorders at noon and start delivering and offering takeout at 5 pm. They're currently offering 10% off all orders. To order, give them a call at 614-464-0575.
Lavash Cafe
2985 N. High St. Columbus, OH, 43202
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When the craving for authentic Mediterranian food strikes, you'll want to place an order with Lavish Cafe. They offer delicious hummus, shwarma, lamb chops, kabobs, and more! They also have plenty of vegan and gluten-free options available. Follow their Facebook page to see the daily specials.
You can order your meals online through their website and either pick it up or have it delivered.
Portia's Café
4428 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214
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Vegans and carnivores both love the healthy and tasty meals from Portia's Cafe. They offer raw, organic, and gluten-free salads, soups, and wraps that are perfect for those days when you feel like eating something light. They have different specials each day, which you can find on their Facebook page.
Once you've decided what you would like, head to their website to order online or give them a call at 614-928-3252. They're currently offering takeout, curbside pickup, and free local delivery.
Tiger+Lily
19 E. Gay St. Columbus, OH 34215
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Offering Asian-inspired flavors with a modern twist, Tiger+Lily offers a wide selection of appetizers, entrees, and noodle dishes. If you're looking for a healthy, flavorful meal, this is an excellent option. You can find their full menu on their website, and, if you order online, you can get 10% off with the code LOVE.
They currently offer takeout, curbside to-go, and delivery through DoorDash and Grubhub.
Way Down Yonder New Orleans Finest Restaurant
3847 S. High St. Columbus, Ohio
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Last, but certainly not least, Way Down Yonder New Orleans Finest Restaurant offers traditional cuisine, including their world-famous authentic gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, shrimp and grits, and even pecan praline beignets.
They offer call ahead/carryout options. Just give them a call at 614-662-8623 to place your order, then come to their pick-up window at your designated time.
Orders are accepted from 12 pm until 7 pm and you can also receive one kid's meal free between 12 and 3 pm with entree purchase (offer good until April 3rd). Follow their Facebook page to learn about any new specials or offers!
#EatLocal
How many of these excellent local restaurants will you support over the coming weeks?
25
Northeast Ohio: Now's the Perfect Time to Take Up Knitting
With many businesses in Northeast Ohio shut down, and "social distancing" in full effect, it's time to start getting creative about finding things to do. Productive hobbies are becoming more popular, and taking up knitting is a great choice.
If this appeals to you, then you'll be glad to know that there are plenty of ways you can learn to knit online. Once you're ready, you can support the local area knitting shops that so desperately need your business right now. Here are some tips for getting started and a few of our favorite stores in Northeast Ohio and beyond.
Step 1: Learn to Knit
There are plenty of online resources where you can learn to knit. Start by checking out some YouTube channels, like AllFreeKnitting or Craftsy Knitting. If you prefer a more structured class style, you may want to take a look at the classes on websites like SkillShare or Instructables.
Step 2: Stock Up on Supplies
Once you've got the basics down, you'll want to visit the websites for some of the area's best knitting stores. Here are a few of our favorite Ohio stores where you can shop for all of your knitting needs.
River Colors Studio
1387 Sloane Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
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River Colors Studio carries a huge selection of gorgeous yarn. They also have all the materials you'll need to start your knitting projects including needles, hooks, accessories.
Check out their selection of patterns, including some great free ones that are perfect for beginners. You may also want to order a few publications, like Pom Pom Quarterly and Mason-Dixon Field Guides. These are a great way to learn more about your new hobby.
The Artful Yarn
100 North Main St. Suite 230, Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
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A fun, boutique-style shop, The Artful Yarn carries an internationally-curated selection of yarns. They currently offer curbside pick-up, limited-distance delivery, and 2-day USPS shipping. You can order over the phone and even video chat via FaceTime. They have some inventory online and will be expanding their online offerings very soon.
On March 30th, they're starting a "Magical Mystery Knit" that you can join right from the comfort of your home. Sign up for their email list or follow them on social media so you can keep up on all the latest news and updates.
Harps & Thistles Yarn Emporium
129 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
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Harps & Thistles Yarn Emporium carries an eclectic selection of yarns and prides itself in offering reasonable prices. You'll love browsing through their gorgeous yarns, and you can also find all of the needles, hooks, bags, and accessories you need.
If you're a beginner, check out the "Yharma's Basement Clearance" section. This is a great way to stock up on supplies without breaking the bank.
Fine Points
12620 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44120
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You'll find everything you need to get creative with your knitting projects at Fine Points. They specialize in unique yarns and offer kits that have all the materials you need to make a specific project. They also carry needles and accessories, patterns, books, jewelry, and more.
Destination Yarn
15708 Lorain Ave, Cleveland, OH 44111
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Destination Yarn is an independent shop that hand-dyes their yarn onsite. It's easy to lose yourself in their website, where you can shop by yarn type, dye technique, or collection. They also sell lots of great kits for sweaters, shawls, and pullovers and fun gifts for other knitting-lovers in your life.
Fiber Addiction
13572 Chillicothe Road, Novelty, OH 44072
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Fiber Addiction carries a wide variety of brand-name yarns including Euro, Berroco, and Cascade. They also offer products from indie dyer Cornbread & Honey. In response to recent events, they're offering individual appointments for those who want to come shop in person, or you can shop online. In addition to yarn, they also carry a fun selection of bags, books, notions, needles, and hooks.
You can get some great deals right now, including free shipping through April 15th. They also offer pick-up orders for those who live nearby.
Other shops around Ohio worth checking out online:
Alpaca Meadows Yarn
1200 Rock Road, Mansfield, OH 44903
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Do you want to make a truly luxurious knitting project? If so, then you'll want to pay a visit to Alpaca Meadows' website. These Ohio residents have a happy herd of alpacas that provide a limited amount of fiber each year. It's either processed on-site or by a local mill. Alpaca yarn is incredibly soft. It's also warm, comfortable, durable, hypoallergenic.
If you see something you like, make sure to stock up, because once it's gone, it's gone. Not sure what to do with alpaca yarn? Take a look at some of their beautiful patterns as well!
The Makery
1 N. Main St., Mt Vernon, OH 43050
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The Makery also carries a wide selection of hand-dyed, hand-spun yarns and fair trade fiber. You can choose from a variety of materials, including alpaca, cotton, bamboo, linen, silk, wool, and more. They also carry needles, hooks, and notions.
Need some inspiration? Check out some of their super-cool books with many interesting ideas. They also carry fun craft kits designed especially for kids, so if you're home-schooling right you, you'll definitely want to check this out as well.
Knitting Temptations
35 S. High Street in Dublin, Ohio 43017
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For a wide selection of yarn at a variety of price points, as well as needles, buttons, and books, you'll definitely want to take a look at Knitting Temptations' website. They carry many popular brands and you can keep yourself on-budget by shopping by price range.
Don't have a ton of money to spend right now? Create an account and build a wish list! This way, when you're ready to move on to future projects, you'll already have your shopping list ready!
Lambikin's Hideaway
217 South B St., Hamilton, OH 45013
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Lambikin's Hideaway is a local yarn store that prides itself on offering amazing customer service, fair prices, and a huge selection of yarn. Here you'll find a variety of options including lace, fingering, sport, DK, worsted, bulky, and super bulky yarn. While you're on the website, don't forget to subscribe to their newsletter to stay in the loop about their latest classes, promotions, and specials.
Knit One, Purl Two
What kind of knitting project are you looking forward to trying first?
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