🌱Learn How To Repurpose Clothing + Don't Plant Callery Pear​ Trees

Good morning, everybody! It's Friday in Avon-Avon Lake and I'm back in your inbox with everything you need to know about what's happening locally, including news on...

• As of January, it is illegal to sell or plant Callery pear trees.
• Do you need a furry friend? We've got some that need you!
• Don't throw out your old clothes, learn how to repurpose them!

But first, today's weather:

A snow shower. High: 30 Low: 23.

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Here are the top three stories today in Avon-Avon Lake:

1. Several ornamental tree species have been added to the Invasive Plant Species List by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources including all varieties of Callery pear. (This includes Bradford and Cleveland pears.) The Callery pear has been added to the list due to its invasive qualities to choke out native species and the likelihood to cause economic or environmental harm. These trees reportedly become aggressive spreaders that can produce stiff thorns as long as three inches that can become hazards to lawn furniture, tires and even shoes. As of January, it is illegal to sell or plant these trees anywhere in the state of Ohio. (City of Avon Lake)
2. Want to add a new member to your family? Look no further than these Avon-Avon Lake animal shelters for a pet available for adoption. Facilities in Avon-Avon Lake and environs have dogs, cats and other pets ready and waiting for someone to take them home. Need some help in your search? Patch and Petfinder have you covered. We round up a list each week of all the pets recently put up for adoption in your area. If you're a dog person, meet Charlie, a Catahoula leopard dog mix up for adoption. If cats are more your thing, there are several great cats available, too. (Avon-Avon Lake Patch)
3. Learn how to re-use and repurpose your wardrobe from clothing designer and seamstress Rachel Ploenzke. She will be at the Avon Lake Public Library at 7 p.m. on February 21 to share her tips on repurposing and altering clothing. This program is part of a year-long environmental series, presented in partnership with the library and Avon Lake’s Environmental Affairs Advisory Board (EAAB). The goal is to address the environmental concerns of residents expressed in the recent EAAB survey. To register, go to alpl.org. Hope to see you there! (cleveland.com)

Today in Avon-Avon Lake:

• Valentines Couples Competition (10:00 PM)
• In-Service-No Students - Avon Lake High School (12:00 AM)

From my notebook:

• FIDO's Companion Rescue Inc.: "Meet Mandie! (Foster/adopter needed)
  Mandie is a 4 year old, 50 pound, hound-beagle mix! She’s fully vetted and potty-trained. Mandie is a little shy but thrives with a k9 companion. She loves walks and cuddling. She’s currently staying at Camp Bow Wow Westlake and would love a home of her own! Mandie would love a fenced yard and a doggie playmate. To adopt Mandie- please visit this link: https://www.petfinder.com/.../oh/avon/fidos-companion-oh300/ (Fido's Companion via Facebook)
• Avon Lake Public Library: If you've ever wanted to restore a piece of furniture or repair a family heirloom, these restoration clinics are for you. Beginning Tuesday, March 7, and continuing on each Tuesday evening through April 4, restoration professional, Greg Linn will share his restoration magic with you. Classes will be held at Beach Park Railway Museum in Avon Lake. Sign up today for these free clinics or for more information via the Avon Lake Historical Society at #440-549-4425 (leave a message or send a text) or email at heritageavonlake@gmail.com. (Avon Lake Public Library via Facebook)
• FIDO's Companion Rescue Inc.: "Hi friends! We’re in need of pedigree canned dog food and any grain-free dry dog food! We have an Amazon wish list and it’ll send it right where it needs to go! Can you help, please? https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/32ULUQY6PVC6J?" (FIDO's Companion Rescue Inc. via Facebook)

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• Valentines Couples Competition (February 17)
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That's it for today! I'll see you around.

— Karena Garrity

About me: Journalism is in my veins. I have been a community reporter for the better part of the past 20 years. I love my community and I am honored to be a part of Patch.com. You can reach me at; karena.garrity@patch.com.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Avon-Avon Lake Patch newsletter? Contact me at karena.garrity@patch.com