Home Front Winter 2016 by Leader Telegram

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HOME&GARDEN SOLUTIONS&PROJECTS

LEARN TO FIX

cozy up WINTER READS

with

LANDSCAPE MISTAKES

a good book

REFINANCING

Is it for you?

REAL

snowbirds THE

Leader-Telegram Magazine Winter 2016

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HOW TO

INSPECT YOUR FURNACE BEFORE WINTER ARRIVES

Article sponsored by Hurlburt Heating and Plumbing

It is almost time to bid adieu to the warm days of summer. Chilly afternoons followed by continually dropping temperatures are on the horizon, and fall is the perfect time to service the home furnace to ensure it is ready to withstand the demands of winter. Furnace maintenance should be done on a regular basis. The best time to do so is in late summer or early fall, when you still have enough time to address any problems before it gets too cold outside. HVAC systems malfunctions are typically caused by one of a handful of common problems. Inspecting certain components can help to guarantee a furnace is in working order when the first cold days arrive.

FILTER & AIR INTAKES

After several months of running the air conditioning, the filter on the heating and cooling system may need to be changed. Check the condition of the filter to see if it is heavily soiled. Furnace filters are relatively inexpensive. Since this thin barrier will be responsible for cleaning the air you breathe, it is important to keep a fresh filter in the unit. A clogged, dirty filter will reduce the efficiency of the HVAC system and may contribute to poor indoor air and allergies. Check the air intakes around the house for obstructions. Do not place furniture directly in front of intakes or venting that delivers air to the home, as this can compromise air flow and force the unit to work harder. Without adequate air flow through the system, the furnace may not turn on. Many systems also have some sort of external vent or exhaust pipe. Check that the area is free of leaves, debris and animal nests. Again, any blockages can impede the efficiency of the unit or cause it to fail.

THERMOSTAT

Very often a furnace may not turn over because the thermostat is faulty. Many a homeowner has spent money to have a service person come out to examine the furnace, only to learn they only need a new thermostat or battery in the thermostat.

Check the thermostat against a separate thermometer to ensure that it is reading the right temperature in the house. Raise the setting a few degrees to test if the heat kicks on.

FUEL

Furnaces are powered by various energy sources. Electricity, gas or oil may be involved in the process. If fuel is not being delivered to the furnace, the pilot will not light and warm the air to be blown through the house. Some systems have an emergency shut-off switch that will halt fuel delivery to the unit. It’s easy for these switches to be flipped accidentally if a furnace is located in a high-traffic area. Make sure the switch is in the “on” position before reporting a problem. In addition to these steps, you may want to vacuum the vent screens around the house. This will reduce the amount of dust blown around. Also, if the furnace exhausts into a flue, be sure that the exhaust route is clear so that carbon monoxide does not back up into the home. Many homeowners are fully capable of inspecting their furnaces to ensure they are ready for winter. If anything seems out of place or malfunctions, consult with an HVAC professional to make repairs. Article by Metro Creative Services. 818520 11-12-16

HomeFront

Winter 2016

Leader- Telegram

Graphic Artist Angela Rediess

Reviews of some great winter reads

Cozy Up with a good book

Home Front Editor Dan.Lyksett@ecpc.com 715-830-5926 or 800-236-7077

Magazine Advertising & Distribution Coordinator Catie.Carlson@ecpc.com 715-830-5823

Who Are the Real Snowbirds? Bird Migration Quiz, How much do you know about our feathered friends?

Available online at www.leadertelegram.com

Terri Schlichenmeyer Cozy up with a good book PG 6 Nancy Skelley The 9 worst landscape mistakes PG 12

Steve Betchkal Who are the real snowbirds? PG 18

The whens, hows & whys of refinancing

The 9 Worst Landscape Mistakes and how to fix them

Next issue: April 2017

HomeFront Winter 2016 Leader- Telegram

Heather Rothbauer-Wanish The whens, hows & whys of refinancing PG 26

local writers

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Celebrate the Holidays Your Library

Article provided by Indianhead Federated Library System.

The holiday season is here. From Halloween on through the new year, your to-do list multiplies as you add family gatherings, shopping lists, holiday parties, and end of year resolutions. Your local library has the resources to help you plan for and enjoy your holidays. You can find:

• Cookbooks galore to discover new & old recipes for holiday meals and parties. • Audiobooks for the trek through the woods to grandma’s house. • Learn to take great family photos to share; and find scrapbook ideas to preserve your family history. • Card making books for ideas and how to create amazing invitations and holiday cards. • Party planning books to help make your ugly sweater party the place to be. • Find patterns to make a holiday wreath or music for your holiday light display. • Pick up a DVD for a relaxing family evening at home during the school break. • Laughter is a great stress reliever, and the library has comedies in all formats on its shelves. • Compare products on your holiday shopping list by consulting Consumer Reports, an online database available through BadgerLink http://badgerlink.dpi.wi.gov/ .

Celebrate this holiday season and ring in your new year’s resolutions with a visit to your local public library.

• Need help with getting library e-books on your mobile device; the opportunity to chat with other adults; and the stress relief of crafts & coloring? Check out the programming at your local library for one-on-one tech help; books clubs and author visits; as well as knitting clubs and DIY projects. 817459 11-12-16

Books

Beginning ARE JUST THE

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HomeFront

Winter 2016

Leader- Telegram

with

a good book

cozy up

winter reads

By Terri Schlichenmeyer

Along about a quarter to 4, it happens: You start to turn on lights and turn off your day. It’s true that daylight is dear this time of year, but that’s never stopped you from enjoying your longer evening — especially when you’ve got a good book by your side…

HomeFront Winter 2016 Leader- Telegram

winter reads

But does she stay or doesn’t she? I won’t tell because I want you to have the same deliciousness of finding out for yourself. Read “The Fortress” and see.

“The Fortress: A Love Story” by Danielle Trussoni

Beginning with a dreamy scene of longing and jealousy, author Danielle Trussoni lulls readers with a fairy tale and a questionable ending: Will there be an Ever After, or will this story end with a screaming, Hollywood-like death of a marriage?

c.2016, Dey Street Books. $27.99 / $32.00 Canada 336 pages

Every good princess needs a castle. It must have turrets and stone steps, a moat and a drawbridge, and a knight in shining armor for that happilyever-after, but in the new memoir “The Fortress” by Danielle Trussoni, the castle has a dungeon and the knight’s armor is tarnished. They met in Iowa, both of them in writers’ classes. She watched him from afar for a few days; he was handsome and exotic but, Danielle Trussoni was married. So, as it turned out, was Nikolai and he, too, was in the process of quitting his marriage. They had a lot in common, loved the same music, shared careers and wanderlust, and he took her heart. Mere weeks later, his visa expired and he was sent home to Bulgaria. She and her baby son went with him. It didn’t take long for things to become rocky. Nikolai was in the habit of telling Trussoni what he thought she wanted to hear, and then doing what he wanted to do anyway. She suspected him of infidelity; he accused her of the same. Money was tight, and they fought from Bulgaria to Rhode Island to France where, thinking it might save their marriage, they bought an 800-year-old limestone fortress and moved in.

We’re offered hints in a near-and-far time narrative - even the fortress seems like a metaphor for her marriage - but that’s no indication of how this drama ends because we’re also reminded that life can be magical, and that anything can happen in a charming and romantic village in France. It’s all like watching a slow-motion rollover on a slick highway: You know what’s coming, but you don’t know, despite it all. There’s some mighty good writing inside this book, and a love story that may not be so lovely but that you won’t be able to tear yourself away from. Start “The Fortress,” in fact, and you’ll be up all knight.

The first day your toddler said he could dress himself was a day you’ll never forget. He tried, you have to hand it to him: Part of his outfit was out of season and the other part was out of style, the colors were painful together and nothing matched except his bright eyes and proud grin. You figured he’d learn and, as in the new book “My Son Wears Heels” by Julie Tarney, so would you. Cont. on page 8

HomeFront

Winter 2016

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winter reads Cont. from page 7

Author Julie Tarney drops product names like she’s in a grocery store, sometimes right down to the ad tagline. That’s often followed by minute details that seem inconsequential, as though they’re filling silence. Add re-created dialogue, quoted from more than 20 years ago and, well, continuing can be a challenge.

“My Son Wears Heels” by Julie Tarney c.2016, University of Wisconsin Press $24.95 / higher in Canada 213 pages

Again, great premise, good story, too much fluff, and if that bugs you too, then take a pass. Unless you can overlook its padding, “My Son Wears Heels” is no shoe-in.

Though Julie Tarney had known since he was born that her son, Harry, was a unique little guy, she was still taken aback when he asked how she knew that he was a boy. Harry was just 2 years old then, and Tarney thought it was a normal question for a child that age. But his next comment - that he was a girl “inside my head” - sent her to her parenting books. Tarney had no real frame of reference, other than a well-used copy of Dr. Spock. She was the eldest of two girls, born in Wisconsin to a mother who was controlling and distant; even if she could have asked her late mother about parenting concerns, Tarney probably wouldn’t. Instinct told her that there was nothing to worry about, though she fretted that Harry was gay. She also worried that she’d somehow ruin him if she didn’t completely support his freespiritedness. At its most basic, “My Son Wears Heels” is a good book. It showcases how one mother encouraged her son to openly explore who he was, and how his journey allowed understanding within hers. And if that was all there was in this book, you’d probably be very happy. Instead, there’s a lot of plumping-up in this tale.

The fix won’t be quick. It never is. There’s no magic wand to change the things that’ve been on your mind lately. Those ills didn’t arrive quickly and they won’t leave quickly but, says Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, they can be repaired. In his new book “Writings on the Wall” (with Raymond Obstfeld), he explains. When people ask Abdul-Jabbar what he might’ve become had he not played NBA basketball, his answer often surprises them: He would’ve been a history teacher. History fascinates him - especially in the way it reflects racism, religious intolerance and gender issues. In history, as in current events, the truth is sometimes bent. Take, for instance, racism. White people may deny that it exists, says Abdul-Jabbar, while black people know that it does. Racism didn’t stop with the election of the nation’s first black president. It doesn’t end with melting-pot cultural appropriation. On religion, we should never lose sight of the fact that this “country was founded by religious outcasts

HomeFront Winter 2016 Leader- Telegram

winter reads Authors Abdul-Jabbar and Obstfeld don’t just examine issues that are on the minds of every American. They turn them over and blow them apart, looking for solutions that can be accomplished and chiding us gently for not already working. That makes for a thought-demanding, intellectually heavy book, but it’s also a worthy call to action. You may also be delighted to see that Abdul-Jabbar doesn’t miss a chance to add a touch of the personal here, which includes quietly unexpected humor.

“Writings on the Wall: Searching for a New Equality Beyond Black and White” by Kareem AbdulJabbar and Raymond Obstfeld c.2016, Liberty Street Books $27.95 / $33.95 Canada 256 pages

running for their lives from persecution for their beliefs,” Abdul-Jabbar says. On equality for women, we must embrace the true meaning of “feminist” and adhere to what we tell pollsters when it comes to gender.

Readers with the right mindset will find this book to be informative and entertaining, but be prepared to take your time to get the most from it. There aren’t a lot of pages inside “Writings on the Wall,” but what’s here is deep and wide and nowhere near quick. Schlichenmeyer is the owner of The Bookworm Sez.

“We cannot afford to just wring out hands and depend on the kindness of strangers,” Abdul-Jabbar says. “We have to bring about change on our own.” Remember when your grade school teacher told you to put on your thinking cap? You’ll need it again as you’re reading “Writings on the Wall.”

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MENTAL HEALTH SELF CHECK-UP By Nicole Rubenzer, Director, United Way Community Health Initiative

Mental health is not simply a case of being “well” or “ill.” Just because a person doesn’t have a mental illness does not necessarily mean he or she is in good mental health. Stress at work, crisis, or other life troubles can affect our mental wellness, which can in turn affect other aspects of our overall health. The National Library of Medicine identifies mental illnesses as real disorders which can affect

Here are some suggestions from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) for a mental checkup you can apply to yourself.

your thinking, mood, and behavior. There are many causes of mental disorders. Your genes and family history may play a role. Your life experiences, such as stress or a history of abuse, may also matter. Biological factors can also be part of the cause. Mental disorders are common, but treatments are available. All of us should be mindful of our mental wellness, just as we are mindful of our cholesterol, blood pressure, and other gauges of physical health.

CONCENTRATION –

Poor concentration is a hallmark of attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but it can also be a symptom of depression or anxiety and should not be overlooked.

BALANCE – Is your work

and home life in a healthy balance? Between your children and your spouse? Perfect balance in life is likely not possible, but should be strived for.

MOOD – Have you been noticing significant mood swings (high or low)? Are you crying more than usual? Feelings of depression that last for two weeks or more? There is a possibility you could be dealing with clinical depression. ENERGY – Fatigue can be

a sign of depression, anxiety and other mental illnesses, but it can also be a symptom of many physical illnesses. If you are unusually fatigued, contact your doctor right away.

SLEEP – If your sleep isn’t

restful, it can be a sign that something is troubling you emotionally. It could be that something is causing you stress, or it could be a more serious issue afflicting you.

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HomeFront Winter 2016 Leader- Telegram

TENSION/ANXIETY –If

you find yourself unable to take mental breaks during the day to relax and be worry free for a few moments, your stress could be reaching a dangerous level.

TUNING IN –Are you experiencing emotions and you don’t know why, such as getting angry or crying for no reason? It’s not uncommon to be so busy that you don’t have a chance to process what is happening to you emotionally. In a case like this, take a moment to write in a journal or talk with a friend. AVOIDANCE – Do you find you take extreme measures to avoid being alone? If so, you may be trying to avoid something emotionally. If so, take a moment to go to a quiet place where you can be alone and explore how you feel. Write down your thoughts and feelings. EATING HABITS – If

you find your appetite has changed, that you are eating too much or too little, it can be a signal that something isn’t right.

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Turn to the Experts.

DO I NEED STORM DOORS ON MY HOUSE?

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Storm doors can add insulation and prevent drafts from entering your home. The door is most effective if it’s installed tightly. You’ll know the storm door is properly sealed because it makes the primary door to your home slightly difficult to close. When you open the primary door, you’ll notice the storm door sucks in slightly because air is being pulled out of the space between the doors. This lets you know that your storm door is effective and is keeping as much air out of your house as possible, adding to the energy efficiency of your home.

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Deciding whether to spend the money on a new or replacement storm door depends on the age and condition of your current primary door. If it’s a newer, well-insulated door, you might not need to bother with a storm door. Well-made doors have low-emission glass or glazing, and some even have pockets to store the glass in summer, so they can double as screen doors to help let air in so you can cool your home.

Because of their potential ongoing maintenance, wooden storm doors are more work down the line than those made of aluminum, steel, or fiberglass. If you’re choosing your door more for security than energy efficiency, be sure to consider whether it has a protective grill, deadbolt locks, and laminated security glass, which will hold up better to damaging winds and potential intruders. Today’s storm doors like those manufactured by ProVia™ are not your grandparents’ doors. ProVia™ offers a variety of materials and looks to match your home’s style without sacrificing security and energysaving features. Asher Lasting Exteriors based in Eau Claire, WI offers quality ProVia™ storm doors. For more information, call Asher at 715-832-7282 or toll free 888-GoAsher. Visit their website at: www.goasher.com. Article submitted by Asher Lasting Exteriors.

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And don’t stop at the home’s front door. Any warm air that leaks out of your house or cold air that sneaks in, lowers energy efficiency. You can buy storm doors to add to a back door or patio door as well, depending on the type and size door you have.

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HomeFront

Winter 2016

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outdoor spaces

WORST LANDSCAPE THE MISTAKES & How to Avoid Them We’ve all driven by that house where we thought, “Wow, they got it right!” It’s that house where all the elements of the landscape come together in harmony and create a pleasing outdoor environment. We’ve also all passed the house where we thought, “Jeez, what were those folks thinking?” Here are some tips on how to become the first case and avoid being the second.

By Nancy Skelley

Mistake: Working without a plan. I think this mistake actually leads to many of the others.

Solution: Whether you are starting fresh with

a blank landscape or inheriting a landscape, take photos, take measurements, take some time to shop the local nurseries and landscape centers in order to see what plants are available and figure out what you really like. Seek out some expert advice, whether it’s local professionals, books, the internet … there are so many places. Educate yourself as you would with any other large purchase!

Mistake: My biggest pet peeve is planting a

large plant, especially an evergreen, way too close to a building. The cute little 4-foot spruce you picked up on sale at the big box store won’t be so cute 10 years from now when it’s rubbing against the siding and blocking the entry to the front door. Thinking you can keep it trimmed? A plant Cont. on page 14

HomeFront Winter 2016 Leader- Telegram

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IS YOUR HOME HEATING SYSTEM READY FOR WINTER?

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If you have a programmable thermostat, make sure your program is set to your schedule. The usual settings to program are: when you wake up, leave for work, return from work and go to bed. Offset the heat setting by 5-8 degrees. This can definitely save energy and money compared to leaving the temperature at the normal setting when not at home. If you are donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have one, we have a number of programmable thermostats that are inexpensive and easy to use. We also have the latest WI-FI compatible stats available.

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Whole-home humidifiers also protect your family and home from the unhealthy and damaging effects of over-dry air during the heating season. You will feel more comfortable at a lower thermostat setting and reduce the physical discomforts of dry nose, throat and skin. Humidity can reduce the chance of respiratory infections and speed recovery from the common cold. Wood floors and furniture, electronics and artwork also benefit from proper humidity levels.

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Your furnace filters should be changed regularly so your system can operate at its peak efficiency. Depending on the filter and the environment that it is in, most filters should be replaced every 3-6 months. We have a large selection of filter types and sizes at competitive prices. If someone in the home has allergies, or if you have pets, an electronic air cleaner may be the best choice for an air filter. According to the EPA, common organic pollutants can make indoor air up to 5 times dirtier than the air outside. The Infinity Air Purifier by Carrier not only effectively filters the air in your home; it captures and kills airborne viruses, molds, bacteria and allergens so you can breathe cleaner, healthier air.

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Winter 2016

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ourdoor sponsored content spaces Cont. from page 12

cannot be effectively managed to be more than about three-quarters of its mature size. A blue spruce for example, matures at 60 feet tall and up to 20 feet wide. For those reasons, it doesn’t belong any closer than 10 to 15 feet to the house.

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Mistake: Not looking at the

mature size of the plants you are putting in. When planning your landscape, we look at the area and want to fill it with beauty. But that doesn’t mean we have to literally fill it up! It is difficult to look at an area and imagine the mature size of the plant and plant accordingly, so difficult in fact that I’ve even seen professionally designed landscapes that have made this mistake. The result of this overplanting is a landscape that requires a lot of maintenance and trimming or one that may ultimately need to be redesigned three or four years down the line.

Solution: Take the extra time to

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if we want an attractive evergreen near the house? Check out smaller varieties of arborvitae or some of the very narrow spruce varieties. These plants may be a little more expensive, but in the long run they will save both money and time. Large plants can be used in the landscape farther out in the yard, while smaller ones will accent and enhance the area around the house.

HomeFront Winter 2016 Leader- Telegram

read those plant tags and even pull out a measuring tape. It’s worth the time and it will save both time and money in the long run. Alternately, buy larger, more mature plants so you can see what you’re getting.

Mistake: Sticking it where the sun don’t shine!

Solution: I always encourage

people to observe the area they want to plant at different times of day and actually log how much sun the area

outdoor spaces

receives. This will solve a huge number of problems such as why doesn’t it bloom, why doesn’t it have fall color, etc. Most fruits and vegetables will not produce in the shade; they need a minimum of six to eight hours of sun.

Mistake: “Onesies” - planting

one of these and one of those. It’s fun to do, but doesn’t result in a cohesive landscape.

Solution: Unfortunately, you

have to pick and choose a bit when landscaping. Figure out which plants are “must haves” and choose from those. Many websites, including Better Homes and Gardens, offer free garden and landscape plans which can offer helpful ideas. The concept of planting in uneven numbers - threes and fives - is a good idea for beginners to implement. It also results in blocks of color which offer more curb appeal.

Mistake: Planting more than you

are able to maintain. This is kind of the landscape equivalent of your eyes being bigger than your stomach!

Solution: Again it’s consumer

education: Some plants are just needier than others. They require more trimming, fertilizing and care than their easygoing counterparts. Highmaintenance plants are fine, if you are willing to dedicate the time and effort they require. If not, you may wind up with an unkempt and messy looking landscape, not at all what you had hoped for. Cont. on page 16

City of Eau Claire Housing Division Housing Rehabilitation Program The City of Eau Claire Housing Division is taking applications for the Housing Rehabilitation Program. The Rehabilitation Program is federally funded and offers loans up to $20,000. This program is for homes in need of repair, not for extensions or cosmetic renovations.

For eligibility information and application call (715) 839-8294. The hearing impaired may contact this office by TDD at (715) 839-4943. If there are other specialized needs due to handicap, i.e. sign language interpreter, wheelchair accessibility, reader, please contact this office.

Type of Work: • Roof and window replacement • Plumbing repairs or upgrading • Electrical repairs or upgrading • Carpentry repairs

• Heating system replacement • Energy saving repairs • Siding repairs or replacement

Eligibility Requirements: HUD Income Guidelines: FAMILY SIZE MAX. INCOME • City of Eau Claire resident 1 $38,550 • Assessed value not to exceed $146,500 2 $44,050 • Property a minimum of 25 years old 3 $49,550 4 $55,050 • Owner Occupied (at least 1 year) 5 $59,500 • Good Credit History 6 $63,900 • HUD income guidelines apply 7 $68,300

HomeFront

Winter 2016

$72,700

817838 11-12-16

Leader- Telegram

outdoor spaces

Cont. from page 15

Mistake: Cutting your lawn too short.

This invites a host of problems in the growing season, grass that is cut too short requires more water, is more prone to weeds and is more likely to burn up in an extended hot spell.

Solution: This one is at least an easy fix:

Raise up that mower! Grass should be cut to a height of about 3 to 4 inches. It also is not necessary to cut grass extremely short in fall to prevent winter rodent damage. You can lower the mower by one-half to 1 inch, but no more than that. Super short grass will not prevent rodent damage and may be damaged in a cold winter that doesn’t see a lot of snow.

Mistake: Over or under fertilizing. One

of the first questions I’ll pose to someone who asks why their plant is not performing is “Are you fertilizing it?” Plants don’t grow well without nourishment. On the flip side of that coin, many lawn problems in particular can be caused or aggravated by over fertilizing.

Solution: Ask questions about what a

given plant will need and then read the label directions on the product you have chosen. Double the amount is not better; half the amount may not be enough.

Mistake: Not hiring a professional for a

project that is beyond your scope. Examples might be installing edging or making a fire pit or even putting up a fence. Yes, you can probably do that, but projects that involve grading should be handled by professionals.

Solution: Hire a pro. When you do, ask

for references and then check them! Grading projects and retaining walls, done improperly, can cause costly problems down the line. Repairing damage to a flooded basement can be far more costly than hiring a pro to make sure that it doesn’t happen. Reputable professionals will happily supply references for you. Being aware of the landscape blunders and having solutions for them should help get you on your way to a beautiful yard!

Nancy Skelley is a Master Gardener from Chippewa Falls.

HomeFront Winter 2016 Leader- Telegram

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HomeFront

Winter 2016

Leader- Telegram 17

local fauna By now most of the birds that make their summer homes in western Wisconsin have bailed for warmer, buggier latitudes. Many birdwatchers are dreaming of following after, but if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re unable to physically tag along with your favorite migrants, you may yet be able to follow them vicariously via this quiz.

WHO

ARE Photo courtesy of 123rf.com.

REAL

THE

snowbirds

HomeFront Winter 2016 Leader- Telegram

By Steve Betchkal

local fauna

Birds that do migrate south from Wisconsin can be lumped into three basic “flights”— shortdistance migrants, medium-distance migrants and long-distance migrants. What is another name for long-distance migrants? a. Snowbirds b. Wingee-dingees Red-winged Blackbird

c. Passerines d. Neotropical migrants Answer: If you selected wingee-dingees, please schedule a personal appointment with me for ornithological tutoring 101. You can contact my secretary at 715-ringee-dingee. Neotropical migrants breed in the Northern Hemisphere and spend winters in the tropics of Central or South America. Passerines is a scientific name given to songbirds, many of which are migrants.

House Wren

Short-distance migrants such as redwinged blackbirds are rather hardy species that can handle cold weather but are mostly limited by available water and food sources during Wisconsin’s brutal winters. Red-winged blackbirds mass in huge flocks and move … a. To the Bahamas b. To where the snow don’t go c. To the Mall of America

Photos courtesy of Steve Betchkal.

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Answer: If you guessed A, you’re suffering from wishful thinking. The truth is, red-winged blackbirds — such as bald eagles, killdeer, American kestrels, song sparrows, horned larks and Canada geese - venture only as far as they have to and that means Illinois, Iowa or Missouri. If the winter is mild, eagles will seek the ice-free lakes and rivers. Geese, blackbirds and American kestrel will forage wherever grain and seed — or rodents — are not buried by deep, crusty snow. Killdeer move a bit farther south, but like the others, are some of the first birds to appear in spring because they haven’t ranged far. Cont. on page 20

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local fauna Cont. from page 19

Medium-distance migrants are birds that may migrate all the way south to the Gulf Coast, but usually don’t commit to crossing over to Mexico or Cuba. Which of the following Wisconsin birds are common in Florida in January?

1No Migration American Crow Scientific name: Corvus brachyrhynchos

a. Yellow-rumped warbler b. Tree swallow c. House wren

2Short distance

d. Piping plover

American Kestrel

e. Eastern phoebe

Scientific name: Falco sparverius

Answer: All of the above. All but the piping plover will have returned north to Wisconsin by late April.

Long-distance — or neotropical — migrants have the farthest to go, and therefore face the greatest hazards during migration. Many of our brightlycolored warblers, orioles and tanagers are examples of birds that must travel twice a year between the tropics and Wisconsin. Warblers like the black-throated green, prothonotary, cerulean and golden-winged travel as far south as Colombia. Bluewinged, Wilson’s and magnolia warblers reach Peru. Purple martins have to make it all the way to the heart of Brazil. Baltimore orioles may stop in Louisiana or travel as far as Venezuela. By the way, what is the average life span of a Baltimore oriole? a. 1 year b. 5 years c. 11 years

3Medium distance Tree Swallow Scientific name: Tachycineta bicolor

4Long distance Great-crested Flycatcher Scientific name: Myiarchus crinitus

d. 23 years Answer: The toughest year in any bird’s life is its first. A young Baltimore oriole that manages to negotiate its way south greatly increases its chance of survival by having learned the route. With a ready arsenal of wiles — and any luck - it may reach 11 years of age. Wood warblers — about 4 to 5 inches in length and weighing about as much as a couple of U.S. quarters — average only 2 or 3 years.

5Super-long distance

Purple Martin Scientific name: Progne subis

Photos courtesy of Steve Betchkal.

HomeFront Winter 2016 Leader- Telegram

local fauna

Just a few of the Usual Suspects

MIGRATION DISTANCES Bird migration is the regular seasonal movement, often north and south along a flyway, between breeding and wintering grounds. Many species of bird migrate.

Most songbirds and shorebirds migrate at night. Why is this? a. They are extremely shy birds, so they prefer the secrecy of darkness. b. They have evolved the practice to avoid predation by birds of prey that follow along during migration. c. They have better night vison than day vision. d. Weather conditions are more favorable during nighttime.

e. Birds don’t sleep during migration. They use daylight hours to feed and nocturnal hours to travel. Answer: Migrant birds face impossible odds during migration. They must navigate through a veritable gauntlet of airports, skyscrapers, housecats, contrary winds and storms, pesticides, hunters and rapidlydisappearing habitat. Then there’s the matter of the food chain. Small birds have evolved the practice of migrating at night to avoid peregrine falcons, merlins and both sharpshinned and Cooper’s hawks that still prey upon them when they stop to feed in the morning. Cont. on page 22

HomeFront

Winter 2016

Leader- Telegram

Purple Martin

local fauna

American Kestrel Great-crested Flycatcher

American Crow

Cont. from page 21

Photos courtesy of Steve Betchkal.

Birds with longer wings travel faster than birds with short stubby wings. Based upon that physiological premise, which of the following Neotropical migrants, having departed the Badger State, would most likely cover the distance to the coast of Texas or Louisiana to Wisconsin in the shortest amount of time? a. Cape May warbler b. Great-crested flycatcher c. Yellow-bellied flycatcher d. Mourning warbler Answer: Via the benefit of its longer wings, the Great-crested Flycatcher will likely travel faster than the others listed, and it will also have the advantage of speed when crossing the 500 miles of gulf to the Yucatan Peninsula.

Cont. on page 24

HomeFront Winter 2016 Leader- Telegram

Will your Cabin or Home be “ALONE” this Winter?

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local fauna Cont. from page 22

Birds are highly dependent on good habitat to survive. In Wisconsin, a bird chooses healthy oak, maple, conifer, grassland or wetlands. The habitat must be just as choice at the distal end of a bird’s migrational arc. So…what do warblers and coffee plantations share in common? a. Warm, sunny Januarys b. Juan Valdez c. A birds-eye view of eco-tourism Answer: Research has found that while “sun-grown” coffee plantations are hard on birds because of heavy insecticide use and lack of insects, Neotropical migrants thrive in the highland forests where traditional shade-grown coffee is grown. It is also apparent that bird watching tours to places like the Amazon or Costa Rica are helping to encourage rainforest preservation. It’s up to you, the early-rising consumer, whether you prefer to play “good cup or bad cup.”

People often associate spring with the return of the first robin. Why is that problematic? a. Robins don’t usually arrive in Wisconsin until after the first day of spring. b. Robins don’t pay attention to calendars. c. They never really left the area in the first place. Answer: The best answer is C. While most of the state’s birds have flown south (robins usually winter south of Canada, but some migrate as far as Guatemala), a few remain throughout the winter, subsisting on available wild fruit and seeking cover in sheltered thickets or river bottoms. If you search hard enough, you can find a few robins in January or February. The males that make it through the winter actually gain an advantage on their competitors; they have a jump on claiming the choicest territories before the other males return.

Which of the following birds, though generally absent in winter, have been recorded on area Christmas bird counts from La Crosse to Holcombe? a. Wilson’s snipe b. Baltimore oriole c. Carolina wren d. Orange-crowned warbler Tree Swallow

Answer: Each of these birds have been discovered in western Wisconsin in December, proving that when it comes to birds, anything is possible. A few years ago an Anna’s hummingbird (a resident of California!) turned up at a Wisconsin feeder over New Year’s. In recent years, the state has been overrun by owl invasions. Each winter seems to hold surprise appearances from birds seeking more reliable food sources or tracking a round-about way south.

Photo courtesy of Steve Betchkal.

24 HomeFront Winter 2016 Leader- Telegram

local fauna

Which of the following birds may actually move into our area with the approach of winter? a. Rough-legged hawk b. Pine grosbeak c. Snow bunting d. Common goldeneye

Baltimore oriole Photo courtesy of Steve Betchkal.

If it was Easy Coming to the

Green Waste Site,

Wait ‘til we come to

Answer: All of the above. Like the birds that exit Wisconsin, these birds are simply moving south – but only out of Canada. Rough-legged hawks don’t mind cold temperatures, but a foot of snow makes it tough to locate mammalian prey. Too much snow can also cover wild seed plants and make life difficult for snow buntings. Pine grosbeaks range widely in search of crab apples, sumac, mountain ash and other fruit and seed sources. Goldeneye ducks, like eagles, stick around as long as the deeper water is open.

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And of course, some species of birds don’t migrate at all. Which of these birds will stay put in an attempt to survive the worst that winter can dish out? a. Black-capped chickadee b. Blue jay c. American goldfinch d. Northern bobwhite Answer: If you manage a bird feeder, this is an easy one. None of these birds technically migrates, though they may wander Wisconsin in search of food. Even the northern bobwhite quail, however foolhardy, will attempt to hazard the sub-zero cold, the persistent blizzards and the distant promise of spring. At this latitude, many bobwhite won’t survive a harsh winter. Why does the bobwhite bother, you wonder? Why not make for Missouri? The Gulf ? South America? The birds, like you and I, have their reasons. Mine is that the holiday seasons are brighter with snow…And plane tickets to the Bahamas are expensive. Steve Betchkal is a freelance writer from Eau Claire.

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Winter 2016

Leader- Telegram

your money

The whens, hows & whys of refinancing By Heather Rothbauer-Wanish

26 HomeFront Winter 2016 Leader- Telegram

your money For most people, purchasing a home is one of the most critical decisions in life. Where the home is located, the school district involved, the neighborhood and the aesthetics are all important. However, most home-buying decisions come down to one thing: money. The mortgage or home loan is going to be one of the largest payments a person will have throughout his or her life. Even after the home purchase, it can be valuable to review your mortgage and consider refinancing. What should you consider before you refinance your home? Two local experts weigh in on the subject and offer tips and ideas for making this decision. Homeowners often consider refinancing for a variety of reasons, including obtaining a lower interest rate, lower payment, debt consolidation and cash for home improvements or investments. “People should consider refinancing when the current interest rate is lower than the interest rate they currently have on their mortgage note, but it also depends on their goals and what they hope to accomplish,” said Carrie Mansbridge, manager and loan officer with Time Federal Savings Bank. Kingsley Gobourne, retail center manager with Old National Bank, agrees that refinancing decisions can vary based upon individual needs. “Much of the decision is depending on how individuals and couples manage debt, structure obligations, and purpose for refinancing,” Gobourne said. And even if the decision to refinance has been made, it’s important to review all options, including institutions that offer low-cost or zero-cost refinance options. “You should consider the cost of refinancing - including appraisals, title work, and closing fees - versus the interest savings when refinancing,” Gobourne said. Homeowners need to consider the length of time required to recoup the cost of financing to decide if it’s worth it. Cont. on page 28

HomeFront

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Winter 2016

Leader- Telegram

your money Cont. from page 27

People often wonder if they have been in their home long enough to consider a refinancing opportunity. “Homeowners may wish to refinance any time after buying the home. Factors such as recent lowering of loan rates, positive changes in credit score and an increase in home value may result in refinancing shortly after buying a home,” Mansbridge said. Instead much of the decision should be based on how long the homeowners plan to stay in the home. “It really comes down to equity available in your home versus the purpose and needs you have,” Gobourne said.

802048 4-9-16

“On average, most people have their loans approximately seven to eight years prior to refinancing or selling,” Mansbridge said. In general, banks, credit unions and other lending institutions tend to have very competitive interest rates. “Rates will and should be competitive within similar markets and financials,” Gobourne said. “The difference often comes down to comfort (with the institution) and ease of doing business.” Customers should also consider any added fees that may be involved with refinancing. “Other fees and charges may also include application fees and early termination fees. It is vital that you understand the true cost of refinancing,” Gobourne said. “Some lenders have higher loan rates for refinancing versus purchasing a home; cash-out refinances may have an additional increase to interest rates and fees,” Mansbridge said. One factor playing a large role in your potential refinancing may be your credit score. “Credit is one of the biggest factors that determine whether or not you qualify for a purchase or refinance loan. It shows the lender that you are a good borrower and will pay as promised,” Mansbridge said. A bad credit score may mean the borrower may not even qualify for the programs available. “Loan Level Pricing (tiered pricing based on credit score) could affect a customer’s rate by 1 percent or more depending on the risk of that customer.

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HomeFront Winter 2016 Leader- Telegram

your money Therefore, the greater the risk, the higher the cost for the consumer,” Gobourne said. Once a decision to refinance has been made, the next decision is deciding whether or not you should stay with the same financial institution or change to another one. “We are currently in an age where most individuals have access to information to make informed financial decisions. I would always recommend collecting information before going to your current bank or credit union for refinancing,” Gobourne said. “Gathering information allows you to feel confident knowing you are getting the best loan and service that is offered.”

KEY REFINANCING QUESTIONS/FACTORS

Mansbridge agreed, saying that conducting research and finding various products offered by different institutions is a great place to begin the refinancing process.

• How long do you plan to stay in the home?

“Some institutions may even offer you promotional opportunities if you open other accounts with them. Many people like the convenience of having all of their accounts at one institution,” she said. “Even if you don’t want to move all of your accounts to one institution, you should still shop around to see who can offer you the best deal.”

• Are you aware of your current credit score and any possible credit issues?

Ultimately, finding the appropriate refinancing opportunity and working with the right bank or lending institution is an individual choice. “Banks are here to serve their communities and to be a part of growth while enabling commerce,” Gobourne said. “There is a bank for everyone and every need. If you are not happy or have not been satisfied with your current financial institution, take the time to explore other options.” Heather Rothbauer-Wanish is a freelance writer from Colfax and owner of Feather Communications.

• Have you had any recent job changes?

• What is the value of your home currently versus the amount of loan you are considering? • Will the loan be kept locally or will it be sold with payments being made to some entity to be determined? • Does the loan product have any special features or incentives? • What amount of deposit is required and when is the loan rate locked-in? • Do we need to escrow for taxes and insurance? • What are the total closing costs? Source: Carrie Mansbridge - Time Federal Savings Bank 818482 11-12-16

HomeFront

Winter 2016

Leader- Telegram

Buying, Building or Reﬁnancing?

sponsored content

SHOULD I REFINANCE NOW? Article sponsored by Edina Realty Mortgage.

ITEMS TO CONSIDER.

• Closing costs – Determine whether you’re able to pay the closing

costs that will ensue should you have your home refinanced. You will likely need to pay about 2-5 percent of the loan’s value in closing costs.

• Credit rating – if your credit rating is better now than it was

when you initially purchased your home, refinancing may benefit you by giving you a better interest rate.

Whether you are buying, building or refinancing, Old National has the loan to fit your needs. Our dedicated loan officers take the time to understand your home-buying goals and help you find the right mortgage.

• Debt-to-income Ratio – if you have a higher income than you did when you initially earned your loan, and you have reduced your personal debt, refinancing may be beneficial.

• Adjustable rate mortgage – if you currently have an

adjustable rate mortgage that is becoming difficult to afford, you could benefit by refinancing and switching to a fixed rate mortgage.

• Home value – equity can be gained if your home has increased

in value. Speak to a real estate professional first to determine whether refinancing is frugal before getting an appraisal.

• Interest rates – refinancing with a lower interest rate can save

you a significant amount of money. But be careful not to refinance too soon or too often, as this can give a negative impression to lenders.

BEFORE YOU REFINANCE…. Get your credit report. • • •

Talk to Old National today. Linda Burgess, NMLS #555783 302 Bay St, Chippewa Falls, WI 715-438-6377 linda.burgess@oldnational.com Apply online at: oldnational.com/burgess James Schuppel, NMLS #502477 3406 Oakwood Hills Pkwy, Suite 100 Eau Claire, WI | 715-930-1565 james.schuppel@oldnational.com Apply online at: oldnational.com/schuppel

There are three agencies that you can request a report from. You may request one report from each agency per year for free. Spreading out these three reports can help to show improvement.

Pay your bills on time. • •

If you tend to pay bills late, you likely will not get a good interest rate when refinancing. Pay credit card, utility, and loan payments on time.

Don’t open new accounts. • • •

Before you even think about getting a new credit card, pay down your existing balances completely. Once all balances are paid in full, you could consider opening a new account. You will then be better able to get a card with a lower APR.

Be aware that refinancing is not free. • • •

It’s typical for homeowners to pay 3-6% of their principal in refinancing fees, according to the Federal Reserve. Other costs you may need to pay: application fee, loan origination fee, points, appraisal fee, inspection fee, closing fee, etc. These fees can quickly add up. No-cost refinancing is another option, but will involve a higher interest rate and may not be a good solution for some homeowners. 818483 11-12-16

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30 HomeFront Winter 2016 Leader- Telegram

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