Home Style - Fall 2009 by Laura Inlow

HOME style

spring Vol. 3, Issue 2

MAGAZINE

PUBLISHER Jim Shrader (618)463-2580 Jim_Shrader@thetelegraph.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF Dan Brannan (618)463-2560 Dan_Brannan@thetelegraph.com

EDITOR Cynthia M. Ellis (618)463-2570 Cynthia_Ellis@thetelegraph.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Georgia Mills (618)463-2554 Georgia_Mills@thetelegraph.com

GRAPHIC SUPERVISOR Joe Wilson (618)463-2599 Joe_Wilson@thetelegraph.com

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Johnny Aguirre (618)463-2543 Johnny_Aguirre@thetelegraph.com

SALES COORDINATOR Sue Ellen Boschert (618)463-2532 Sue Ellen_Boschert@thetelegraph.com

CONTRIBUTORS Kathie Bassett

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note

Cover story

Fountains: The World of Water

Paint wish

Paint like a pro

Home-buying tips

from a first-time home buyer

Build a simple birdhouse

let your creative spirit free

New trends in outdoor spaces

Embracing value-added decorating

Planting trees

Know what you want before you start

Bird is the word

Straight from the mouth of Birder, Steve Whitworth

Laura Griffith Steve Whitworth

First-time buyers

flooding the market

Create curb appeal

THE

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Spring 2009

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editor’s note

cynthia M. ELLIS Every now and again unexpected things happen in life. Recently, I made the decision to move. There was no planning, no forethought about leaving the house I called home for the past seven years, but I know it was the right one. Why? Because, the house where I’m now living has the most breathtaking view of the Mississippi River and who wouldn’t want to look out their window and watch a natural wonder? Don’t get me wrong I liked living in my old quarters, but this place is phenomenal. It wasn’t until I made the decision to move that I realized I had so much stuff to pack. Clearing the upstairs of my old house wasn’t so bad. I moved room by room, but when I got to the basement I wanted to scream. I never realized I had accumulated so many things I no longer needed and should have parted with some time ago. No wonder people pay people to move them. My parents, my son and my best friend were all there to pitch in. Without them who knows how long it would have taken. Moving is stressful, but once you’re done it feels fantastic to be in a new place. This time though, I promised myself I wouldn’t acquire so much stuff. I’m not the only person who moved this year either, Laura Griffith, purchased her first home. Congratulations to her, too. In this issue, she offers first time homebuyers tips when it comes to purchasing their first place and personal insight on her journey in getting there. Kathie Bassett gives us cost effective ideas on fountains for our yards as well as tips for spring and summer plantings and tree care for our lawns. Bird is the Word with Steve Whitworth. As we all know with the arrival of spring, there is also the appearance of birds returning to the area and Whitworth, who is an avid bird watcher, offers tips and tricks to people just getting started and the great places to go in our area. Since moving, I’ve noticed several flock to the bluff tops and it’s peeked my curiosity to find out more. By next winter I’ll have the perfect perch to eagle watch, too. Anyway, I hope everyone enjoys the spring/summer season and this issue of Homestyle.

cover story “Water sustains all.” Thales of Miletus, 600 B.C.

Fountains: The World of Water By KATHIE BASSETT ince antiquity, man has sought to capture nature’s vitality in fountain design. By creating more than a simple functional source of drinking water, we pay homage to the beauty of the natural world. Originally, the word “fountain” referred to a natural spring or source of water. Now, on the grandest of scales, the term conjures images of elaborate sculptures and choreographed, dynamic performances of jets of water. Fountains, however, come in many sizes and shapes and are made from a wide array of materials reflecting an individual’s aesthetic goals. “We have something for everyone,” said Kathy Ralston, who owns Community Feed and Seed in East Alton with her husband

Because these fountains sit on top of the ground, they don’t require any digging or trenching to install. Herb. “We have over 80 different types of fountains, and everybody has their own ideas.” Some people like children, animals, fairies and angels while other people like architectural or geometric designs, she said. All the fountains at Community Feed and Seed are poured concrete and have been made on site. The water burbles as it splashes onto the

basin, producing a soothing background sound. The fountains can be customized in different sizes and colors, such as terra cotta, black, bronze, and copper, to complement its natural surroundings. “People want a fountain to be a focal point,” said Ralston. “They have nice patios and nice landscape gardens to put one in.” Prices range from $200 to $2,500 depending on the complexity of the design and the size of the piece. Because these fountains sit on top of the ground, they don’t require any digging or trenching to install. “All you need is to have a regular 110 outlet and to keep the bottom bowl filled with water,” said Ralston. “You also need to keep leaves continued on page 6 Home Style

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Fountains: The World of Water FROM PAGE 5 out. They’re easy to take care of and you have something pretty to look at.” These systems, however, are not recommended for anyone who wants to have koi, which require not only a larger area but also an in-ground pond. “Water gardens and ponds are the easiest aquariums to take care of,” said Lee Horvath of Lee’s Services in Edwardsville. “Our koi are my wife’s coveted pets.” Horvath’s waterfall spills down a gentle slope in his front yard filling a pool at its base. “It’s mesmerizing,” said Horvath. “It’s all nature. We like to sit around under the pergola, drink a glass of wine, and relax.” The water cascading over rocks produces a different effect that accents a more zen-like experience than what a free-standing fountain offers. This type of fountain is more than a focal point; it creates an environment. Horvath advises customers to do it right the first time if they are willing to assume the trouble and expensive of installing a water system. “What you think is big looks smaller in the ground,” he said. “This is a labor intensive project that requires a ton of rock. Plan it out because it won’t be maintenance free.” The cost of this project also demands a greater commitment of funds, ranging from $15,000 to $20,000.

For gardeners and landscape enthusiasts looking for a do-it-yourself project, plans for a variety of fountains can be found at www.marthastewart.com www.hgtv.com. Projects include a pyramidal pots fountain, a copper fountain with an Asian-inspired bamboo spout, and a rain-chain fountain to mention just a few. Visit www.gardenfountains.com for general information on fountains.

Paint Wish PAINT LIKE A PRO

Choose a color that makes your front door pop. This will be your third color, a color not found anywhere else on the house. Look at dark plums, cranberr y reds, teal blues or a deep mahogany stain.

Don't: Buy the budget grade of any paint. Most major paint brands come in low, medium and high grades. According to some experts, grade is more important than the brand. Since each paint company will give their grades different descriptive names, price will indicate the highest-grade paint - buy that. Don't: Ask your painter for color recommendations. These people can wield a paintbrush while blindfolded, but many, if not most, have no training in color theory or trends. If you can't manage color, look in your local yellow pages for a color coach. Don't: Leave your garage door "manufacturer's white," especially if it is up front as a focal point. Paint it the color of the house body or trim. Don't: Pick your paint color in the store and order it without trying it on for size. Don't: Skimp on preparation, such as scraping, wood filling, sanding and priming.

Do: Consider the architectural style of your home. With a little homework, you can find colors that complement the style. Do: Pull color brochures from various paint stores and study the combinations. Do: Order quart-sized samples of body and trim colors and try them on all four sides of your house. Northern exposures look quite different from southern exposures. Live with your colors for at least a week before you decide. Try on four to five colors and their combinations. The initial expense will be worth it when you still love your paint in 10 years. Be a friend to the neighborhood by choosing colors that complement the block. Search the Internet by paintbrand companies for house-color ideas. Some sites have virtual- design tools that can help you make a decision. continued on page 8 Home Style

Paint Wish WHAT PAINT WHERE Remember Pittsburgh Paints' 6030-10 rule: 60 percent of your paint color will go on the body, 30 percent on the trim, and 10 percent on accent items such as the front door. The more you use a color, the more intense it will be. For example, 60 percent of sage green is magnified and will appear much stronger and darker on your house than it looks on a paint chip. Test your paint before you choose.

The more you use a color, the more intense it will be.

PAINT IT OUT There is no need to call attention to the parts of your house that you don't like. Let's say that the builder has trimmed out a certain area that you don't find attractive. Make it "disappear" by painting it the same color as the body.

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PAINT IT IN On the other hand, you can call attention to the parts of your house that you do like by painting those areas with accent or trim colors.

FRONT DOORS Choose a color that makes your front door pop. This will be your third color, a color not found anywhere else on the house. Look at dark plums, cranberry reds, teal blues or a deep mahogany stain.

FIND INSPIRATION ONLINE — Benjamin Moore: Check out the Pottery Barn Colors. Yum. Sign up for the personal color makeover kit for $40 - house colors designed just for you. www.benjaminmoore.com. — Sherwin-Williams: Check out the Virtual Color visualizer tool. www.sherwinwilliams.com. — Behr: Check out the Color Smart tools and inspiration library. www.behr.com. — The Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute: www.paintquality.com. Sources: Color Futures, ICI Paints Exterior Planner, Better Homes & Gardens, Meredith Books Color Marketing Group Dunn-Edwards Orange County Paint Pittsburgh Paints, Josette Buisson, artistic director.

Tips for a first-time buyer, from a first-time buyer By LAURA GRIFFITH fter growing tired of watching my rent money fly out of my checking account every month, I recently made a decision to reroute those finances into some equity of my own. I became a first-time homebuyer. The whole ordeal can be extremely intimidating, especially in a bleak economic climate. I didn’t know the first thing about mortgages or credit scores, like many other firsttime buyers. With the banks tightening up their lending and the rise of home foreclosures, I worried I might not get qualified for enough. Beyond that, I wondered if I did get qualified, whether I would have enough for the closing costs everyone kept telling me about. Now that the process is over, I look back on my experience and wish someone would have given me a step-by-step on what to expect. Here are some things you should know: Ask a lot of questions. First and most important, ask questions. “What kinds of financial help might be available for me?”, “How much savings do I have?”, “ “What am I looking for in a house and what can I afford?”, and “How do I find a real estate agent and a lender?”

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If you know someone who has recently gone through the home-buying process, you’re in luck. For me, it was a cousin who had recently purchased a home in Alton. He had some great advice, and pointed me in the direction of the lender I would eventually GRIFFITH go with. Find a buyer’s agent you can feel comfortable with. Call several agents and explain to them that you are shopping around for a buyer’s agent. You may want to meet with a couple and gauge your comfort levels around them. Ask yourself whether that agent seems knowledgeable and helpful regarding the process and local market. Know that if you buy through a seller’s agent, your interest won’t be the only one he or she has in mind. Find a lender that’s quick on the trigger and helpful. I started my search for information at the banks. I called my bank as well as other local lenders and I set up appointments. When looking for a lender, don’t forget to check out facilities that specialize in mortgage lending to make sure you’re investigating all your

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options. You’ll want a lender that gives you a lot of information up front. A good loan officer will understand your confusion and explain the process in detail — from pre-approval to all

From me to you, even if you think you’ve found it, don’t be afraid to keep looking. If you keep going back to the same home — you’ll know it’s a keeper.

the papers you’ll sign at closing (and there will be plenty, believe me). If you pick the right loan officer, you can save yourself a lot of headache and make the process as easy as possible. Find out if there are any financial programs that can help you. Your lender should be able to assist you and find plans that could help you pay for closing costs or other expenses associated with buying a home. Madison County and the City of Alton have $3,000 to $5,000 grants that are available toward the purchase and/or closing costs if you financially qualify and as long as you use the home as your primary residence for five years. If your plan is to stick around for five years, you might as well take advantage of President Barack Obama’s economic stimulus plan. The plan includes up to an $8,000 tax credit, or 10 percent of the purchase price of a home (whichever’s lower), as long as the home is purchased before Dec. 1, 2009. Unlike Bush’s credit for 2008, this one won’t have to be repaid. Look at a variety of houses and you’ll know when you’ve found “the one.” Keep an open mind when looking — some may not look the way you want now but have plenty of potential. Bathrooms, kitchens, roofing, electricity, plumbing, heating and cooling are on the more expensive end of repairs, so if these areas look good, you’ve found a decent starting place. They say, in the real estate business, that once you’ve found your future home that you just know. From me to you, even if you think you’ve found it, don’t be afraid to keep looking. If you keep going back to the same home — you’ll know it’s a keeper. Allow for flexibility in your offer. If you really think you’ve found the one, prepare to bend a little on how much you are willing to spend. Imagine about where your price ceiling is and keep it to yourself. Your buyer’s agent will tell you to start low. In the same respect, sellers continued on page 10 Home Style

First-time home buyer FROM PAGE 9 are going to ask high. On both ends, there has to be a little wiggle room for negotiations. Ask for a home warranty and some closing costs if you can get them. Hopefully, you’ve found a motivated seller. Remember, be patient — you may have to go back and forth a few times, which is OK. If in the end if you can’t agree on a price move on to greener pastures. Don’t take a home inspection personal. Just when you think the house is yours, you have to live through this daunting process. You’ll follow the inspector around while he or she nitpicks about this and that. It’s hard not to take offense — after all, this is the home you love and picked to buy. Take the criticism constructively. If the seller wants to close the deal, chances are he or she will make the repairs no problem. Don’t get overwhelmed. With your closing date approaching, your list of to-dos can become overwhelming. Step back and take a deep breath. Figure out the time you’ll need to get the tasks done and space them out accordingly. Do give yourself time, though, in case plans fall through and you need something else done. The sooner you get your responsibilities out of the way, the less you’ll have to worry

Be power smart: about and the sooner you can celebrate. On the other hand, sitting idly makes waiting a little bit harder, but whoever said this process was easy? Get an education. The most helpful step in my real estate purchasing process was a counseling session with a representative from Justine Petersen out of St. Louis. There is nothing worse than the feeling that you’re about to sign your life away and you’re still not clear on all the specifics. My counseling session was a stipulation of the Madison County grant I would receive, though the information would be helpful to any uniformed buyer. I learned tips and tricks for evaluating and improving my credit score and finding the right realty agent. I also got a sneak preview of the papers I would sign at closing, which helped alleviate some of the stress. At closing, I sat at a long table with my father and real estate agent and signed paper after paper until I couldn’t look at my signature anymore. Because of the counseling and previous questions I asked, the atmosphere was calm and easy and I was able to enjoy the moment. Accepting the keys to my first home was like opening a birthday present with everyone smiling and looking on. I’ve taken on more responsibility, but I couldn’t be happier.

For safety AND for business Looking for a quick way to reduce energy and maintenance bills? Exit signs that must be lit 24 hours a day, seven days a week can take a bite out of commercial and industrial budgets, as well as those for residential high-rise dwellings. Photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) exit signs can offer significant savings per sign in reduced energy, materials, and labor costs as compared with standard incandescent models. For actual figures relating to how much a traditional exit sign can cost in energy bills alone -- not to mention bulb-replacement, maintenance and other labor costs -- there is an exit sign cost calculator available at www.lumonall.com. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, "in locations with proper charging sources, PL [photoluminescent] exit signs can have an unlimited service life." (source link: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/procurement/eep_exit_sign.html) Added to the zero energy cost value is the fact that photoluminescent signage can be considered fail-safe because it doesn't rely on power, bulbs or maintenance.

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Home Style

Build this simple birdhouse, then let your creative spirit free to make it fanciful.

lls ook te igest b D ur o 's y r e a ke Read m o t ow what yo u h se and u o h d ir own b l need. s you'l supplie

Step 1 — Once template is enlarged, cut out shapes and trace onto wood. Trace pattern so all finished sides face out when assembled. Step 2 — Cut out shapes and smooth cuts. Use cordless circular saw and belt sander. Use hole saw on your drill to cut openings for birds. Step 3 — With pieces cut out, assemble rest of supplies. You'll need drill with small bit to start holes for hinge and hanger screws.

Fun facts ● Bird-watchers prefer to be called birders. ● 85 million people in the United States view and photograph birds. ● 75 percent of birders hold bachelor's degrees and 38 percent hold graduate degrees.

Step 4 — Assemble bottom and sides first, then insert dividers. Gorilla Glue and 1-inch paneling nails work well for this part.

● The average birder is 49 years old.

Step 5 — Drill small pilot holes for the hanger and hinge screws. They will keep wood from splitting.

● In 2001, American birders spent $2.6 billion on birdseed and $733 million on feeders, houses and baths.

Step 6 — The outside of this birdhouse was coated with sage green stain. Do not use paints or stains of any kind inside the birdhouse. Step 7 — Use decorative materials outside. Here, sides are reed-cane fencing and top is bamboo planks. Natural hemp forms hanger.

Spring 2009

● Birders spend $32 billion to $42 billion a year on bird pursuits, including feed, binoculars, travel and high-tech viewing equipment. SOURCE: National Geographic

Birdhouse tips Here are some general tips for building and placing a birdhouse: ● Don't go crazy with the sanding and finishing. It doesn't have to be perfect, it's not fine furniture, a little rough around the edges and a few flaws give it character. ● The inside should be raw wood with no paint or stain and the front inside surfaces should be roughed up so the baby birds can climb up to the opening when they are ready. I used a dremel tool to cut horizontal grooves in the inside front wood. ● Redwood, cedar or outdoor plywood is best. Do not use pressure-treated wood, it contains toxins. Birds really like aged wood like driftwood or barn wood. Decorate with natural materials such as cedar shims, bamboo, dried palm leaves - use your imagination. ● Little perches outside the entrance hole are not necessary for small cavity-dwelling birds and can allow predatory birds a place to perch and get to the chicks. ● Don't mount your birdhouse anywhere that the family cat or another predator can easily get to. Rats will also prey on bird eggs. It does not have to be really high up but it is a good idea to face the box away from the direction of direct sunlight. ● Providing the correct food and moving water such as a fountain will help attract and keep birds in your yard. ● Don't over-trim your shrubs. Let things get a little wild; birds like shelter.

New trends In outdoor spaces (StatePoint) As consumers spend more time at home, it's no surprise many are enhancing their existing living spaces. In particular, this season homeowners are embracing value-added decorating changes outdoors. “Homeowners recognize an investment in curb appeal is a cost they'll likely recoup, so they're willing to make new purchases in this area. As they redesign outdoor spaces, many homeowners are enhancing existing decks and walkways, while others even are installing expansive outdoor kitchens or entire great

rooms,” says Jack Miller, senior product manager at Kichler Lighting. Expanding outdoor living areas means manufacturers are getting creative in product development, combining new design trends with creative lighting schemes for spaces that can be enjoyed day and night. Among the newest trends in these areas: ● Outdoor Fans: Homeowners want to enjoy their outdoor spaces without being consumed by outdoor heat. Outdoor fans cool a

space while also lending a stylish accent. These days, some fans even feature built-in lighting, so they can be used once evening sets in. For instance, Kichler offers several outdoor decorative ceiling fans that coordinate with other landscape offerings. Many even incorporate reversible blades with different finishes on each side, giving homeowners enhanced flexibility. ● Slate: Slate has long been used in outdoor pathways and walkways. Now, slate and other natural materials are being incorporated into other outdoor elements, such as outdoor furniture and landscape lighting fixtures. Popular this year are mission-style path lights that combine the richness of mission aesthetics with the beauty of natural slate. ● Green, Energy-Saving Products: Everyone is buzzing about going green and looking for new ways to save on electricity bills. LED lighting, an ultra energy-efficient light source, uses 75 percent less electricity than typical incandescent lighting products. With this in mind, lighting companies like Kichler are offering a variety of outdoor LED fixtures. “Landscape lighting is left on for several hours at a time, so energy-efficient solutions are extremely important outdoors. Recognizing this, we've designed LED deck lights, step lights, path lights and accent lights to ensure every area of the landscape can be illuminated efficiently,” says Miller. “Our LED products emit the warm, white light homeowners have come to expect from their lighting, and have the added bonus of low energy consumption.” ● Lighted Potted Planters: Flowers and plants are great inexpensive decorating accents. They can help small spaces appear larger and add warmth to larger areas. New this season are standing lighted planters that spread beautiful shadows on path and patio surfaces and wall-mounted planters that spotlight flowers at eye level. ● Owls: It's the year of the owl. New owlinspired decorations are making a statement indoors and out. Decorative owls have become particularly trendy in outdoor spaces, adding a welcoming, natural presence and an exciting accent. With an eye on this trend, Kichler is offering a decorative owl fixture with a natural-looking owl perched on a lighted tree branch. As you nest at home this season, go ahead and enjoy the outdoors. With a few wellplaced lighting accents, plants and decorations, your outdoor space can easily and inexpensively become a winning focal point of your home. Visit www.landscapelighting.com for more ideas on illuminating outdoor spaces.

Home Style

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Know what you want before P L A N T I N G T R E E S By KATHIE BASSETT For The Telegraph efore planting a tree, homeowners need to carefully consider what trees might thrive in that particular location and what they personally want in a tree or trees. To help homeowners with this decision, trees and plants are rated for hardiness in particular temperature zones by the United States Department of Agriculture. The River Bend area is designated Zone 5

or 6 because of the extremely cold temperatures possible in the winter and the hot, humid temperatures found most summers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are plants that will grow in either Florida or Canada but not here,â&#x20AC;? said Art Hansen, manager of A. Waldbart and Sons Nursery in Dorsey.â&#x20AC;? Trees appeal to homeowners because of both their longevity and their flexibility. Trees can provide an abundance of blossoms, colorful fruit, and vivid foliage. They can also introduce a more architectural form into the garden by serving as an anchor for a

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bed or border, accenting a sidewalk or driveway, or creating a privacy screen from the outside world. Additionally, a tree can shade an entire home or just a favorite spot to recline in a hammock. The mature size of a tree is the foremost consideration to determine whether or not it can work in a specific location. People also need to consider soil drainage and sun exposure when choosing a tree. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The majority of trees will tolerate a wide range of soil types, but certain trees will grow better in certain conditions,â&#x20AC;? Hansen said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People need to be aware of drainage issues.â&#x20AC;? Flowering trees typically prefer planting in an open area that allows them at least six hours of sunlight every day. The more adventurous gardener might want to add a tree topiary to his landscape design. The topiary can either be purchased from a local nursery or cultivated by a dedicated home gardener to create an artistic impression, which can either be whimsical or formal in nature. Animals, cones, globes, and geometric shapes are popular garden additions. For more detailed growing and pruning tips, search www.hgtv.com. Along with local nurseries, the Arbor Day Foundation is another reliable source of information. The organization reminds home owners that trees are more than decorative elements and that the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s environment depends on the beneficial conservation of trees. To promote planting, the Arbor Day Foundation offers more than 200 types of trees for sale at www.arborday.org â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best to plant when we have good moisture from Mother Nature,â&#x20AC;? said Hansen. Tree roots are dormant in the spring and root systems will begin to develop once a tree leafs out. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better if the roots can develop in the customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yard instead of the nursery,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more moisture in the soil now than in July so this means less maintenance for the home owner.â&#x20AC;? kathie.bassett@gmail.com

Bird is the word By Steve WHITWORTH for Homestyle

One of the fastest-growing outdoor activities in the nation is for the birds. ird-watching is soaring in popularity around the country, perhaps because it's so easy to do. At its most basic level, birding is simply observing the natural world and the creatures that inhabit it. Those observations might be as simple as looking out a window at the birds that come to your backyard feeders. You can look for birds while walking around the block or hiking up the Mississippi River bluffs. Getting outdoors and getting some exercise are among the most basic joys of the activity. You don't need any equipment to see many common birds in your yard, but your enjoyment will be multiplied if you use binoculars or a spotting scope to help you see birds at a distance or in more detail. Once your curiosity is piqued, a field guide can help you identify birds that are unfamiliar to you. Many beginners start with the Peterson, Audubon or Golden series of guides; those who take a greater interest may want to move up to a more detailed guide by Kenn Kaufman or David Allen Sibley. Those who get the bug usually begin visiting parks and wildlife refuges in search of new and interesting birds. When I first started birding in 1990, I seldom ventured more than a few miles from my home in Glen Carbon. Then, I learned about some of the prime birding spots around the St. Louis area, as well as outlying parts of Missouri and Illinois. Before long, I was taking trips to other states in hopes of adding new birds to my "life list." As I write this column, I'm excited about the upcoming vacation my wife and I are taking to Texas. We will look for birds in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, one of the prime birding spots in the nation, and in the Corpus Christi area. Many birders even pursue their hobby around the world. Friends of mine have taken birding trips to Mexico, South America, Africa and Antarctica, among other places. For birding close to home, I recommend four areas - Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge in Calhoun County, Pere Marquette State Park near Grafton, Olin Nature Preserve/Mississippi Sanctuary in Godfrey and Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary in West Alton, Mo. - that offer some of the best

bird-watching opportunities in the Alton area. Our area sits squarely astride the Mississippi River Flyway, one of the main routes followed by migratory birds in their seasonal travels. This globally vital corridor is used by neotropical migrants that fly from South and Central America each spring, many going all the way to Canada, then make the return trip in the fall, as well as by larger waterfowl, predatory raptors and other birds. This natural heritage will be celebrated Saturday, April 25, at the Wings of Spring Confluence Birding Festival at Riverlands. This is the fourth annual Wings of Spring, and the event keeps getting better every year. This year's celebration runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and it includes a variety of activities for birders of all ages and experience levels. Children can see an American white pelican and several birds of prey up close and personal, or they can learn how to build birdhouses and feeders. Experienced birders are available to lead hikes within Riverlands or guide trips to other nearby hotspots. Food, music and bird-related merchandise also will be featured. For more information, visit www.wingsofspring.org. Thanks to our location on the flyway, it's possible to enjoy one of the great wildlife spectacles of the world each spring and fall, right in our back yard. Many people are unaware of the drama and beauty all around us at this time of year. I hope some of you reading this column will be inspired to pay more attention to your surroundings and the

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remarkable birds that inhabit them. Whether you become interested in colorful songbirds and their beautiful singing, fierce raptors that awe us with their hunting abilities, or tiny hummingbirds and their amazing aerial acrobatics, watching birds is a rewarding activity that leads to a greater respect for the natural world. For those who are interested in seeing the colorful neotropical migrants passing through in spring migration, several places on the Missouri side of the St. Louis area also are well worth visiting, especially Forest Park's Kennedy Forest, Tower Grove Park in south St. Louis and the Busch Conservation Area in St. Charles County. The spring migration in this area peaks from mid-April to mid-May, so there's no time like the present to get out and start looking for birds. Birders enjoy sharing their expertise, and there are several groups in our area that sponsor birding walks and trips. This is a great way for beginners to get some help in learning the basics. I recommend joining the members of the St. Louis Audubon Society or the Webster Groves Nature Study Society on these excursions. To learn more about SLAS, visit www.stlouisaudubon.org; for more information about WGNSS, go to http://levee.wustl.edu/~rlk/wgnss/. Finally, readers who have questions about birds and birding should feel free to call me at The Telegraph at (618) 463-2515 or e-mail me at swhit6@hotmail.com.

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First-time buyers flooding the market By LAURA GRIFFITH Now is the time to buy and plenty of firsttimers are taking notice. With interest rates hovering around the low 5 percent range and with a federal first-time homebuyer tax credit of up to $8,000 available through Dec. 1, agents like Sherry Gilleland of Century 21 Seniker-Edwards in Godfrey are seeing a flood of business around the River Bend area. Out of 12 clients in two weeks in midMarch, 10 were first-timers, she said. "With interest rates at historic lows, inventory is high so you have more homes to choose from," Gilleland said. There are plenty of perks to owning one's home, Gilleland said. "With a house of your own, the mortgage balance you are paying decreases over time and the equity builds," she said. "With an apartment, you gain nothing as time passes, except maybe a higher rent." "A home is an investment. When you rent, you write your monthly check and that money is gone forever," Gilleland said. Gilleland stressed that it is of utmost importance that first-time buyers do their homework before setting out to buy a house. Part of that homework might include seeking counseling for first-time homebuyers. The counseling is required as a stipulation for

those who seek housing assistance from a Madison County first-time homebuyers grant worth $3,000 to 5,000, depending on an applicant's financial status. Colby Kluthe, a Justine Petersen housing counselor with the program, is no stranger to first-time homebuyers or their questions and concerns, which run the gamut from real estate jargon to the selling of a loan after closing. Kluthe said the company, which is out of St. Louis, is about creating wealth through ownership. Among other services, the organization offers counseling and other programs for home purchases and financing. "The way I view it, it is an opportunity for us as a HUD agency to take a third-party look at the transaction and make sure homeowners know (what they're getting into), to avoid problems down the road," he said. Kluthe sees some first-time homebuyers come into their counseling sessions well-read and well-informed about the process, but others knew nothing. "These days, a lot of people are becoming more informed from watching the news. At least they're asking the right questions," he said. Finding a real estate agent or loan officer could be as simple as asking a friend or someone who has recently gone through the process.

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If a first-time buyer is new to the area or doesn't have referrals, he or she should call around to local agencies and interview a handful of agents. "See which one takes the time with you and answers all your questions," Gilleland said.

“A home is an investment. When you rent, you write your monthly check and that money is gone forever.” SHERRY GILLELAND CENTURY 21 SENIKER-EDWARDS IN GODFREY

She said most of her business comes from referrals. One of the first things an agent wants to know is if the potential buyer is preapproved, Gilleland said. She said the buyer hasn't been approved, the agent may be able to help find a lender. Deb Higgins, senior loan officer with Pulaski Bank Home Lending in Alton, firsttimers should aseek a lender that will give the buyer plenty of information and will tell it like it is, even if it's not what they want to hear. Once the client is preapproved, Gilleland said the agent has a starting point. She suggests that buyers make a list of priorities they want in their first home - number of rooms, specific neighborhoods, etc. so choices can be narrowed. Though not all agents use the technology, Gilleland plugs her clients' information into a Prospect Manager database that creates an e-mail list of homes in which they may be interested. From there, buyers can search through options delivered right to their e-mail and pick the ones they might want to see. She said she has used the technology for the past year and finds it very helpful. When looking at houses, Gilleland said buyers should look beyond the first home that they like, just to be sure. "I always tell my clients 'don't jump on the first house that you see,'" she said. "Chances are if it's the house they really want, they're going to go back to it. Just don't be afraid to see what's out there." She said houses that are in the lower end are what's selling right now. Sellers these days are being forced to price their houses continued on next page

Create curb appeal by using the right color By CYNTHIA M. ELLIS icking house paint colors isn't just difficult. It can be absolutely terrifying. If you choose colors that are blah, your house could seem flat and featureless. But if the colors you pick are too bold, they might overwhelm the architecture or upset the neighbors.

The best colors will highlight the most beautiful features of your home. Skillful use of color can even disguise design flaws, boosting the curb appeal and market value of your home. How do you find that magic color combination? Follow these tips.

Honor History If you're planning to paint an older home, you'll probably want to use a historically accurate color scheme. You can hire a pro to analyze old paint chips and recreate the original color. Or, you can refer to historic color charts and select shades that might have been used at the time your home was built.

Market lower in the competitive market and that the best bets are priced well and move-in ready, she said. Her Web site, www.sherrygilleland.com, offers more tips for buyers that take them through the conception of the idea to buy a home through to closing. If first-timers have a shortage of anything, it certainly isn't questions about the process. "One of the more common concerns has to do with the buying and selling of the FHA loans," Kluthe said. "They're nervous because of what they hear on the news about mortgage-backed securities." Kluthe said first-timers shouldn't be surprised or scared if they sign a mortgage and get a letter months down the road informing them that their loan has just been purchased by another company. "Your loan itself does not change. It's just that a different company is taking it over. The terms or payment won't change," he said. "The note that you sign at closure is a contract." If there's one piece of knowledge Kluthe advises first-timers to walk away from his counseling sessions with, it's that they should seek assistance as soon as possible if they fall into financial troubles. Visit http://justinepetersen.org for more information. Also visit www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com to find out more about the tax credit.

Jazz Up the Past

apart, without clashing with nearby buildings.

In some neighborhoods, homeowners fly in the face of history. Instead of choosing historically accurate colors, they paint their houses modern colors to dramatize architectural details. Using bright colors on old architectural details can produce startling and exciting results. But before you buy 10 gallons of bubblegum pink, it's a good idea to look at what your neighbors are doing. A fluorescent-colored Victorian that looks splendid in San Francisco will seem wildly out of place in more conservative neighborhoods.

continued on page 20

Consider Your Neighbors The house next door can give you paint color ideas, but don't copy your neighbor exactly. Choose colors that set your house

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Borrow from Nature The landscape around your house is blooming with color ideas. Trees may suggest an earthy palette of greens and browns. A beach setting might suggest vivid blues, turquoises and coral colors. Even the garden in your front yard can inspire exciting color combinations.

Your house is your canvas, but it is not blank. Some colors are already established. What color is your roof? Your paint color doesn't need to match the roof, but it should harmonize. Look for Things That Won't Be Painted Every home has some features that will not be painted. Does your house have brick walls? Vinyl windows? A natural wooden door? Will steps and railings remain their

existing colors? Choose a color scheme that harmonizes with colors already present on your house.

Focus on Details Depending on the size and complexity of your home, you may want to choose two, three, or as many as six colors. In addition to color for your siding, select accent colors for shutters, moldings, doors, window sashes, brackets, columns, and porch decks. But beware too many colors will overwhelm your house. Too few can make your house seem flat and uninteresting.

Go Dark for Drama Dark siding or dark bands of trim will make your house seem smaller, but will draw more attention to details. Darker shades are best for accenting recesses, while lighter tones will highlight details that project from the wall surface. On traditional Victorian homes, the darkest paint is often used for the window sashes.

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A burst of a single color on just one part of your home may give it a lopsided appearance. Strive to balance colors over the entire building. Remember the more intense a color, the more likely it is to fade. After a few years, vivid blues and deep reds might seem more subdued. Dark colors can also pose more maintenance problems. Dark colors absorb heat and suffer more moisture problems than lighter shades. And because dark paint fades, it can be difficult to match exactly when you do small touch-ups. But, don't rule out dark colors. They won't show dust and stains, and can give your house a sense of dignity or drama. The most successful paint jobs are those in which the individual palette colors work well together and are appropriate for the architectural details. Even with impeccable prep work and high quality materials, a paint job is only as good as the color choices. Research and patience help make the right ones.

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f time has taken a toll on your deck, leaving it dirty, mildew-stained and wearing a coat of gray, don't worry! It's easy to restore your deck to its natural beauty. Clean and protect your deck to get the most out of it during the spring and summer months. Here's advice from the experts at Wolman Wood Care Products:

● Clean the deck thoroughly with a formulated deck cleaner, such as Wolman Deck & Fence Brightener — Wood Cleaner & Coating Prep. Embedded dirt, weathered gray wood left behind from last year's sun exposure, black or green stains from mildew, mold and algae, or brown-black tannin bleed common on new cedar can ruin the look of your deck. Even newly built wood decks can require surface prep to remove surface barriers like mill glaze on cedar or "green bleed" on pressure treated pine. These barriers can prevent the adhesion of protective coatings, including colored stains and clear sealers. Products like Deck & Fence Brightener remove surface barriers, gray discoloration and even the toughest stains, restoring wood to its natural beauty without bleaching like chlorine bleach can. ● Apply a solid or semi-transparent stain to enhance your deck's appeal, or a transparent finish or toner with a hint of color to let the natural wood grain and texture show through. Even if you are undecided on whether or not to stain — or which color to choose — it's important to protect it with a water-repellent. Water-repellents stop spring and summer showers from penetrating the wood surface, and the resulting swelling, shrinking, warping, and cracking caused by water absorption. Many products, including Wolman RainCoat Water Repellent, also contain a mildewicide to resist ugly mildew growth on the coating film. Look for products, like RainCoat, that offer a performance guarantee on waterrepellent longevity. They provide longer lasting protection so you won't have to apply a new coat every year. For more information about cleaning, restoring, beautifying, and protecting your deck or for more helpful deck tips, visit www.wolman.com.

Digital television deadline is spurring The conversion to digital re and figu on rec many homeowners to ed viewrov imp for ces redesign their spa televiw ne ase ing pleasure and purch sions. mmission (FCC), on tes will ral Communications Co According to the Fede stations in the United Sta . Digital ion vis tele t cas ad bro r ital we dig -po broadcasting only in June12, 2009, all full channels. alog airwaves and begin stop broadcasting on an ed picture and sound quality, as well as more eive prorov rec t visions tha broadcasting offers imp one or more analog tele , you will either need a ve ha t tha se tho es vis TV rs" on the The FCC ad or antenna or "rabbit ea g converter gramming from an outdo g television connected to a "digital-to-analo alo r analog set) an you an or on g ion win vis digital tele analog signals for vie to ls na sig tions. If you ital sta dig t ts -power broadcas box" (which conver programming from full ing ays have. tch alw wa e you as tinu e con vic to in order , you can enjoy ser ion vis tele te elli sat or subscribe to cable visit www.dtv.gov. n and coupon program, sio ver con the t ou ab To learn more

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support and a long name, good customer nd bra wn nkno a h wit ll â&#x2014;? Buy a gri place. With a long warra rything else will fall into eve t, line tha on at do gre you of If e . warranty n take advantag nufacturer you can eve ich is ty from a reputable ma on solid construction, wh nt cou u know you can deals without worry. Yo most important. ything s of cooking space. An least 400 square inche the t jus it's if en Ev â&#x2014;? Choose a grill with at ll. the gri cooking whole meals on settle n't do n, the d an w less is inconvenient for no aks do is grill a couple of ste at, vegtwo of you and all you or want to cook the me ny pa com for k coo you e tim other t an firs to e us Th s s. ng for les ich bri e time, you'll be glad. Wh gies and bread at the sam good point... grill. If mpens the thrill of the ely. Inconvenience da ience ven con ose cho â&#x2014;? Choose features wis e, grill for a long tim cue rbe ba r you rage. ve ha sto rk surface and you are going to as well as now, like wo r late nt you wa l es wil tur you fea t features tha overboard on can afford without going you ll gri st be bs. the kno l ase oo Purch es like stay-c d look for safety featur are not likely to use. An syassembly and have ea ade grills require little r-m tte Be . tom bly cus em 00 ass 0,0 â&#x2014;? Easy opt for the $1 f course you can always you to-follow instructions. (O m and a chef to show tea bly em ass t comes with an stainless steel grill tha most don't.) how to cook on it, but

Charcoal vs gas grill vs electric Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s probably just a matter of choice Taste or convenience?: The charcoal vs gas grill issue is largely a taste vs convenience issue. Or is it? Taste tests actually reveal no significant flavor difference between gas and charcoal grills. A gas grill is ready when you are, just turn it on. It's easy to clean and there are no ashes to dump or messy coals to deal with. And features? You'll never use all the features available. Bottom line: The majority of barbecue grill owners have gas grills and love them. On the other hand, every barbecue cookoff contestant swears by charcoal grilling. They wouldn't dream of using anything else. Charcoal grills are simpler and less expensive, and they're gaining in features and convenience, too. But if it's not a matter of superior taste, (and we're not saying yea or nay) why would anyone fool with charcoal? Admit it, you love being Master and Commander of the Coals. It's not an easy job, but satisfying.

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Environmental concerns: There is another issue, an environmental one, where the electric grill shines. Electric grills have no open flame, so they are perfectly safe for the environment. Just plug them in and go. On the other hand, they have no open flame. Is that really barbecuing? Charcoal grills are the worst environmentally because of their smoke and noxious lighter fluid fumes. But you can eliminate fumes by using a charcoal chimney starter to light your coals. It's simple and inexpensive, around $12 to $20. Gas grills are somewhere in between. They use propane or natural gas which are at least natural products and only mildly noxious. Charcoal gas grills are a modern option. They are charcoal grills with a small propane tank for lighting the coals, just like a gas grill. The best of both worlds?

DECOR TRENDS Move over granite Quartz now the hot countertop rock So you're in the market for a new premium countertop surface and granite seems like the obvious choice, think again. After all of your research you'll probably end up selecting the highest rated and most popular option available - quartz. Quartz countertops are the new worry-free, elegant alternative to high-maintenance granite. They are stronger than granite, require no resealing, are highly resistant to scratches and stains, and come in a huge variety of colors. In fact, Consumer Reports Magazine rated quartz as the top performer among countertop materials such as granite, ceramic tile, stainless steel, laminate, marble, limestone and concrete when it came to resisting prime kitchen hazards such as stains, heat and scratches. According to the recent Freedonia Group Report on countertop industry trends, there has been a definite shift in the marketplace over the last few years as quartz has become the fastest growing market segment in the industry with 13 per cent growth compared to granite's 5 percent. Quartz surfaces are growing in popularity because they have the appearance of natural stone, but unlike granite, these surfaces never need to be sealed. Quartz is a nonporous material, which means it will not promote the growth of mold, mildew or bacteria. In your research you will most probably stumble upon a popular brand called HanStone. "Quartz countertops have an aesthetic that can emulate the look of granite, but are also available in unique colors and surface effects not found in natural stone," explained Mark Hanna, President of Leeza Distribution Inc., distributor of HanStone Fine Quartz Surfaces. "The benefit of quartz is that it doesn't have any of the drawbacks associated with materials such as granite." Also of great importance, HanStone is accredited with Greenguard environmental certification.

What is quartz? Quartz is silicon dioxide and it occurs as individual crystals and fine-grained masses in a large variety of forms, patterns, and colors. It is naturally hard and scratch resistant. Quartz actually ranks a 7.0 on Moh's Hardness Scale, which is used to measure the scratch-resistance of a material. Only diamonds, ranking 10, topaz, and sapphire are harder than quartz. Most quartz countertops are manufactured

with up to 93 percent quartz and seven percent pigments and resins. This prescribed mixture results in a product that is non-porous, exceedingly durable, and more than twice as strong as granite. The top rated quartz surface in the industry

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