Here is an article that the Afton Chamber of Commerce published in the local Tri Town News.

Business of the month for: August 2014 The Greater Afton Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to spotlight a local business that is rooted in the Afton community.

In 2008, Adam Nichols started Cents-Able Solutions, a full time Lawn care and snow plowing business that would serve customers in the Afton area and surrounding communities.

The roots of the business were formed when Adam started mowing lawns while he was in high school. Through the early 90′s he could be found mowing lawns and shoveling snow all through the Afton area. After High School Adam joined the Navy and served aboard the USS John F Kennedy aircraft carrier before attending Broome Community College to earn a degree in Business Management. After working in management for several years Adam ventured out on his own, creating Cents-Able Solutions.

“Our first year a new customer told me, I just want someone who will take care of my property for the next five years.” recalls Adam. “The idea when I started was to provide a professional service that people could rely on. Now seven seasons later we are still caring for that customer’s property all year round. I even have some of the same customers that I took care of back in high school.”

Being a part of the local community is important to Adam. Partnering with the local suppliers, having the support of local businesses, along with referrals from happy customers has contributed to the success of the company. Adam hopes to continue to elevate the level of professionalism within the industry, and create bonds with customers for years to come.

Today Adam makes his home in Sanford along with his wife April, and their children Lucas and Jordan. Being a small business owner has not been just about providing a service to customers. Although Adam prides himself on providing professional, honest, and friendly service he is most proud of the lessons he is able to pass on to his children. “Building a small business has been a family affair that has allowed our children to see the importance of our faith, hard work, and integrity.”

Although the basics are the same today the scope of the business has changed. Adam now enjoys the assistance of several part time employees and partners with local small businesses. Cents-Able Solutions now serves customers in several counties and into Pennsylvania. In the last few years the addition of dump trucks and compact equipment have allowed Cents-Able Solutions to provide a variety of additional services.

In the Summer season they are busy operating weekly mowing routes, typically through the end of October when they begin Fall clean ups. In the winter months they focus on Commercial Snow and Ice Management. They have spent seven successful winters ensuring parking lots and roadways are cleared and safe for tenants, customers, and visitors.

To find out more about them Like their page on Facebook, facebook.com/centsablesolutions, or find them online at www.cents-ablesolutions.com.

Have you been thinking about some outdoor projects this weekend? Here are some tree mulching tips from http://www.cents-ablesolutions.com. Here is an easy way to protect your trees from mowers and trimmers while promoting healthy growth. Create a mulch ring around your trees with the tips below:

1. Remove the grass in a ring around the base of the tree extending as far as the drip line.
   
2. Cover the open area with landscaping fabric and add organic mulch. 
3. Some plants and trees will benefit from a slightly acidic mulch. A sufficient layer of mulch is approximately 3" deep. Use less in wet areas of if drainage issues exist. When mulch already exists refrain from adding more if there is already sufficient coverage. Simply turn over the mulch to renew the look. Avoid placing mulch against the tree and root bulb. 
4. Finish the project by defining the edge with a shovel or adding edging such as stone or brick. Thoroughly water newly installed hardwood mulch.
   
5. Feel free to extend the mulch ring over the years as your trees grow

This simple project can help improve your tree's health and protect it from damage. The idea is to mimic the natural ground covering that a tree has in the forest. This can benefit your trees and add a clean look to your landscape. Have a enjoyable weekend!