Customer Care Blog
Subscribe and receive email notifications of new blog posts.
RSS Feed
- 2026 | 12 Posts
- 2025 | 4 Posts
- 2024 | 24 Posts
- 2023 | 17 Posts
- 2022 | 103 Posts
- 2021 | 100 Posts
- 2020 | 89 Posts
- 2019 | 91 Posts
- 2018 | 93 Posts
- 2017 | 107 Posts
8
Northeast Ohio: Sign Up to Run These Virtual Races
With gyms closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many Northeast Ohio residents are struggling to keep fit. From YouTube videos to push-up and squat challenges, those who want to stay in shape have certainly found some creative outlets to do so.
For runners, a virtual 5K race is a fun and exciting way to enjoy the camaraderie of race day while still staying socially distant. How does it work? You simply register ahead of time, then, on the day of the race, run or walk in any place you choose. Your medal will be shipped directly to you!
Sound like fun? You're in luck! There's certainly no shortage of upcoming virtual races in the local area. For each of these races, you can complete your run (or walk) any time between the start and end dates. Unless otherwise noted, you may also choose between a 1-mile, 5K, 10K, half-marathon, or marathon run. You'll time yourself, and race officials will ask you to send them your time. The prices include your medal, race bib, and shipping.
Now that you know how everything works, here are a few you may want to check out.
Race Through the Clouds
Sunday, May 10th at 7 pm - Sunday, May 31st at 9 pm
View this post on Instagram
This very special virtual race is being held in honor of Zach Sobiech, who wrote the song "Clouds" when he was dying of osteosarcoma at only 18 years old. The cloud-themed medal was made to honor his legacy and his "anthem of hope."
This race is held in May, to celebrate Zach's birthday, and 15% of the registration fee will be donated to the Zach Sobiech Osteosarcoma Funds.
2020 Happy Hug Day
Saturday, May 16th at 7 pm - Sunday, May 31st at 9 pm
View this post on Instagram
You might not be able to give out real hugs right now, but you can virtually celebrate National Hug Day. For this race, 15% of the fees will go to the HUGS (Help Us Give Smiles) Foundation, Inc., an organization that gives free medical care to children and adolescents who have a cleft palate, cleft lip, microtia, and other facial deformities.
You can also purchase an official race t-shirt or hoodie if you want to show extra support!
The Great Toilet Paper Chase
Saturday, June 13th at 7 pm - Saturday, August 29th at 8 pm
View this post on Instagram
Did you know that National Toilet Paper Day is coming up on August 26th? Considering the craziness surrounding this essential product, it's only appropriate that a race is held in honor of it.
A minimum of 30% of your $22 entry fee will go to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund through the World Health Organization. This charity helps provide frontline healthcare workers with essential supplies and supports research to speed the discovery of diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines.
Get Truckin' 5K
Saturday, June 13th at 7 pm - Wednesday, September 30th at 8 pm
View this post on Instagram
One of the most essential, and under-recognized workers during the COVID-19 pandemic is the nation's truck drivers. These are the people who ensure that we're able to get food and critical medical supplies to the places that need them. Help support them by registering for the Get Truckin' 5K.
Thirty percent of each registration goes to the St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund. For a limited time, you can also purchase a limited-edition t-shirt or hoodie.
2020 Race for the Greatest
Saturday, June 20th at 7 pm - Sunday, August 23rd at 9 pm
View this post on Instagram
On January 26th of this year, the world lost the great Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna. This race is held in his honor. The distances for this race are slightly different. Choose from a 2-mile, 8K (4.97 miles), or 24K (14.91 miles) run or walk. These numbers were chosen for Gianna's jersey numbers (2, 8, and 24).
At least 34% of the registration cost will be donated to an organization that Bryant was passionate about After School All-Stars. You can also purchase an official t-shirt or hoodie.
Father's Day 5K
Sunday, June 21st at 7 pm - Tuesday, June 30th at 9 pm
View this post on Instagram
Celebrate the important dads in your life and get a fun superhero medal! Run in honor of Dad, give the medal to him, or purchase an extra one to give as a gift.
The registration is $22 and15% of the fee to Team Hoyt, which works with disabled and physically challenged young people to help build their self-esteem, character, and confidence. If you'd like, you can also purchase a commemorative t-shirt or hoodie.
We're All in This Together: Social Distancing 6K
Saturday, June 27th at 7 pm - Monday, August 31st at 9 pm
View this post on Instagram
In honor of the 6-foot social distancing recommendations, this race features a medal that reads "We're all in this together, but six feet apart." At least 30% of all proceeds from this race's registration will go toward supporting Feeding America, which supports food banks across the country.
Champions for the Children 5K
Thursday, August 20th at 7 pm - Mon. Nov. 30th at 9 pm
This race is held in celebration of World Children's Day, which occurs on November 20th. Registration for this event is $22 and 25% of this goes to support Feeding America.
Set Your New PR
Which of these awesome virtual 5K races are you going to do?
1
Northeast Ohio Florists That Deliver for Mother's Day
What is a mother? A best friend, a shoulder to cry on, a compassionate caretaker, a role model, and guide through our toughest moments in life — being a mom involves being everything a son or daughter needs, whenever they need it. Moms, step-moms, mothers-in-law, grandmothers, and maternal figures all deserve recognition and celebration for their profound impact on our lives. This Mother's Day will certainly be different than all others, and while social distancing may prevent us from being together physically, it doesn't have to stop us from showing the women in our lives just how much we care about them. Send the mom in your life a beautiful floral arrangement from one of these florists that conveniently deliver around the Cleveland and Akron areas.
Robinson Florist
730 S. Arlington St., Akron, OH 44306
Looking for a Mother's Day arrangement that will suit any style mom may have? Look no further than Robinson Florist. Not only will they match you with a bouquet that is bright and beautiful, but they will also deliver it to any doorstep across the nation. No matter if your mom lives in downtown Akron or all the way in San Jose, California, Robinson Florist is determined to deliver the perfect Mother's Day gift to your mom wherever she may be.
Urban Orchid
1455 W. 29th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
View this post on Instagram
This florist in the heart of historic Cleveland creates upscale floral arrangements that exceed expectations. Urban Orchid specializes in crafting bouquets and floral designs for special events such as weddings which means your everyday order will be made with the same talent and stunning beauty that men and women desire for the most important days of their lives. With one location in Ohio City and another in Little Italy, they'll send your mom a completely customized creation that will leave her breathless.
Al Wilhelmy Flowers Inc
17458 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111
Why can you unquestionably trust Al Wilhelmy Flowers with your Mother's Day gift? They've been the reliable, professional florists that Cleveland men and women have counted on for over 140 years! Al Wilhelmy Flowers will go the extra mile to make sure your mother only receives the finest floral arrangement. With delivery available across the United States, Canada, and other international locations, Al Wilhelmy will be your first choice for flowers for every occasion.
Orban's Fruit & Flowers
11520 Buckeye Rd., Cleveland, OH 44104
View this post on Instagram
The best and freshest flowers in Cleveland are available from Orban's Fruit & Flowers. Their popular bouquets, fruits, and gourmet baskets can include everything from roses and pineapples to roses and champagne. Please keep in mind that Orban's is functioning with a limited staff to prioritize the health and safety of their employees so consider making your order as soon as possible or opting for a delivery date other than Mother's Day Sunday.
Colonial Florists
1843 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44301
With sweet gifts and fragrant flowers readily available, shopping for a Mother's Day gift is effortless with Colonial Florists. Unlike other services that may deliver flowers in a box — sometimes causing the arrangement to become damaged during shipping — Colonial Florists always create your arrangement by hand and deliver it anywhere in the United States personally. When you choose Colonial Florists for a Mother's Day gift, you're ensuring that your mom receives an arrangement that's as beautiful and cared for as she is.
Nela Florist Inc
2132 Noble Rd., East Cleveland, OH 44112
Show you care even if you can't be there with Mother's Day flowers from Nela Florist. Since 1939, Nela Florists has delivered thousands of gorgeous arrangements to mothers and grandmothers around the city. They offer a wide variety of bouquets for a range of prices, including their special Deal of the Day bouquets that are perfect for sons or daughters who want to pick out the perfect Mother's Day gift on a tight budget.
Pam's Posies
110 Merz Blvd., Akron, OH 44333
Offering free delivery for local online orders, Pam's Posies guarantees your complete satisfaction with all of their florist-designed and hand-delivered arrangements. If you're not sure which flowers would be best for your mom, choose the Florist's Choice Bouquet. One of their talented florists will create a custom arrangement with the freshest flowers available with a vase included.
Green Thumb Florist
11519 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111
Don't worry if you don't have a green thumb — the talented staff at Green Thumb Florist have the talents necessary to create an unforgettable Mother's Day arrangement. Although they have a number of excellent Mother's Day bouquets ready for delivery, we suggest looking at their "Flowers in a Gift" options as well. These bouquets come in a number of adorable vase designs such as water pitchers, smiley-faced mugs, and even a cute terrarium. Not only will you give mom a beautiful bouquet, but you'll also gift her a great vase that she can use again and again.
Amedeo's Florist Inc.
1099 Grant St., Akron, OH 44301
It's all about mom at Amedeo's Florist this month, and they're ready to help you show your love and appreciation to the maternal figure in your life! This local florist knows exactly how to say "Thank you for everything" with an amazing floral arrangement — they've been doing so for over 70 Mother's Days! Make this Mother's Day extra special with one of their colorful bouquets that can be delivered right to your mom's doorstep.
Tiptoe Through the Tulips
What's your favorite flower for Mother's Day? Let us know in the comments below!
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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.
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?
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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
View this post on Instagram
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?
The Cutler Real Estate® word mark is a registered trademark owned by Cutler and Associates, Inc.
Privacy Policy / DMCA Notice / ADA Accessibility
