SAAA May/June 2016 Residence Magazine | Page 17

plies for the “pet potty” station to ensure good curb appeal. With the grill area operating in peak form, why not use it for a resident function or two? Here are some ideas: Host a cooking challenge between the property management staff and the community. Invite the local fire department to be judges. (Maybe they will even bring chili ... yum.) Grill fruit and use it to make homemade ice cream. Collect resident recipes by email and compile into a community book. (I’ve even seen one property sell it, and the proceeds went to a local charity.) With a little creativity the grill can be used to toast marshmallows to make s’mores. www.rotorooter.com/rrba Provide some mason jars with holes in the lids and have a lightning bug party. (Be sure to have a “catch and release” policy in place.) It’s easy for a grilling or picnic area to get overlooked. With these tips your property can not only have residents, but also an elite group of Grill Masters. See you somewhere... Paul Rhodes Follow me on Twitter! @maintmanpaul When not grilling or eating his concoctions, Paul is providing education for NAAEI as their National Maintenance and Safety Instructor. He travels the country teaching all aspects of property maintenance. He also believes that apple wood-smoked peaches will be served over homemade vanilla ice-cream in heaven. www.supplyhq.com www.saaaonline.org | May/June 2016 17