Spring Home & Garden

PI_PROGINDEX/SPECIAL_SECTION/PAGES [T01] | 03/18/11

14:50 | SUPERIMPPB

Garden leader prepares for big event Kay Wray is looking forward to 2011 Historic Garden Week in Petersburg TAMILIA HICKS STAFF WRITER

PETERSBURG – Kay C. Wray, the chairman of the Petersburg Garden Club, found her love of gardening at an early age through her mother, who was an avid gardener.

Wray’s mother got her daughter interested in gardening and the love just continued to grow from there. ”Once I started, I couldn’t really stop,” Wray says.

Wray’s love of gardening led her to the Petersburg Garden Club, where she has been chair for the last four years.

T2

Wray says leading the garden club has been a highlight of her life that she has enjoyed immensely. But she plans to step down from her position after this year because she feels its time for someone else to step up and take over.

The club has about 45 members and about 800 people who volunteer. Since the garden club is a nonprofit organization, the work of volunteers and other supporters is critical to the success of the organization, Wray says.

The Petersburg Garden Club was formed May 5, 1925, then became a member of The Garden Club of Virginia on

May 21, 1948. There are a total of 47 clubs in the state of Virginia.

The Petersburg Garden Club’s main goal is to help promote gardening, protecting native resources, and restoring and preserving historic gardens in the different areas.

The garden club sponsors three flower shows annually.

But make no mistake – the big event of the year is the Historic Garden Week.

The Petersburg Garden Club’s goal this year is to have at least 500 people attend and go through the tour. The club always wants to top everything they did the previous year.

For Wray, the event is exciting and sometimes nerve wrecking. However, it’s all Please see WRAY, Page 3

Sunday, March 20, 2011 The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA

PI_PROGINDEX/SPECIAL_SECTION/PAGES [T02] | 03/18/11

17:30 | SUPERIMPPB

PROGRESS-INDEX FILE PHOTO

Petersburg resident, Kay C. Wray, is chairman of Petersburg Garden Club.

WRAY

Homes & gardens open April 16 in Petersburg

worth it because the event is so beautiful and it really makes her proud to be a part of it. Her favorite thing about the event is seeing all the people that come out for it. “This is America’s largest open house,” Wray said of the event.

Tour includes properties never before open to the public

Continued from Page 2

FROM STAFF REPORTS

“People can find their own likings to each house because of the diverse feel from each one..”

— Kay C. Wray, chair, Petersburg Garden Club

People from all walks of life can come out to enjoy the beauty and history of these homes and its showcases.

Each person can relate to all different types of beauty throughout the tour. For those who may not be huge garden fans, the old historic houses are an attraction themselves.

Wray said that each house on the tour has its own unique touch and everyone can enjoy going through the homes.“People can find their own likings to each house because of the diverse feel from each one,” she said.

This year’s Garden Week Tour in Petersburg will be held on Saturday, April 16.

Visitors can enter nine homes and gardens in addition to an annual tea and lunch, music and a geranium sale at the Petersburg Area Art League.

PETERSBURG – The Petersburg Garden Club will open its doors to gardens and homes in the city on Saturday, April 16.

The theme of this year’s event — “Down In The Grove and Up At The Park” — reflects the locations of the tour, which includes several homes and gardens never before open to the public.

The Saturday event is part of the larger Historic Garden Week in Virginia, sponsored by the Garden Club of Virginia. The 78th annual event from April 16 to 23 allows visitors to step through the gates of more than 250 of Virginia’s most beautiful gardens, homes and historic landmarks. The event is billed as “America’s Largest Open House.”

In Petersburg, visitors can enter nine homes and gardens in addition to an annual tea and lunch, music and a geranium sale at the Petersburg Area Art League.

Below are a listing of homes,

PROGRESS-INDEX FILE PHOTO

Visitors congregate in the entrance of the McIlwaine House during the 2010 Petersburg Garden Club’s home and garden tour. The McIlwaine House is not on this year’s tour, but nine other historic properties in the city are on the tour, many of which have never before been open to the public. gardens and events available on April 16:

Revival elements.

Two United States presidents have visited Centre Hill. After the • Centre Hill Mansion Muse- fall of Petersburg, President Abraum, 1 Centre Hill Court. Centre ham Lincoln visited on April 3, 1865 Hill has been called a “symbol of and met with the Union general the g randeur who was occupying the mansion. that character- On May 19, 1909, President William ized the aristoc- H. Taft was the guest of honor at racy of Virginia Centre Hill. in the 19th century.” In 1823, • The Cameron Foundation, 228 the house was S. Sycamore St., The Weddellbuilt in the Fed- McCabe-Chisolm house, built eral style by between 1840 and 1845, and located Robert Bolling in the Poplar Lawn section of IV. Subsequent Petersburg, has been completely owners of Cen- restored and renovated, and is now tre Hill remod- the permanent head- quarters for eled the house. The Cameron Foundation. The resPATRICK KANE/PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTO In the 1840s, the toration began in 2008, and was just This year tour goers may visit the MILLER COTTAGE, h o u s e w a s completed in the fall of 2010.

514-516 Grove Ave. This wooden frame, one and updated by RobOver the years, the majestic clapone half story double house is located on ert Buckner Bol- board Greek Revival style building Petersburg’s first street, originally Water Street, in ling to incorpo- has been a residence, school, motor the Old Towne Historic District. r a t e G r e e k inn, & boarding house, and was

almost destroyed by fire a number of years ago. The severely damaged building was purchased in December, 2008 by The Cameron Foundation in order to have a facility to accommodate meetings, programs, seminars, and to have onsite parking available.

Enteros Design of Petersburg provided the architectural services in the restoration of the existing building as well as a 5000 square foot addition that houses a conference center, and additional office space. The grandeur of the Greek Revival architecture is represented in the new conference and office area by new masonry piers, a standing seam metal roof, a pediment and vertical openings.

This newly restored architectural gem is open for the first time.

• Turner-Freeman House, 221 S. Please see TOUR, Page 4

The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA Sunday, March 20, 2011 PI_PROGINDEX/SPECIAL_SECTION/PAGES [T03] | 03/18/11

14:14 | SUPERIMPPB

T3

TOUR

Continued from Page 3

Sycamore St., In 1921, William J. Turner, a Petersburg brick contractor, bought the lot at 221 S. Sycamore Street, and over the next year, built a state-of-the-art, 14room home for his family. The house later became a boarding house, and in 1993 was purchased

by Jay and Kay Freeman, who restored the house to the original 1920s grandeur.

The front porch borrows many features from the Georgian Revival style of architecture with Roman Doric columns of galvanized steel, a fanlight transom and sidelights, and a central dormer ornamented with pilasters and a Palladian window.

Mr. and Mrs. Freeman have a vast collection of antique furnishing and accessories, many of which reflect their love and interest in the 19th century.

Open for the first time. Jay and Kay Freeman, owners.

T4

• The Vargo Home, 402 Grove Ave., Built in 1760, this two-story Colonial style clapboard dwelling stood in the Blandford section of Petersburg, and was known as the “Peachey House.”

During the Siege of Petersburg, shell fire destroyed the roof and second story of the house. By the 1980s this historic dwelling was in such a state of disrepair that the Historic Petersburg Foundation dismantled the home and put it in storage.

In 2007, Marie and Doug Vargo purchased the house from the foundation and began the painstaking process of restoring it to its 18th century origins. Kris Haase, of Hasse Inc. was able to recreate all the salvageable parts, and as they were completed, he and his crew would move them to the building site.

Specialty mill work was used in recreating the windows of the house, and careful measurement of each section of wood resulted in a front hall, living room, and dining room that represented the original footprint of the 18th

PATRICK KANE/PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTOS

The BALLENGER GUEST HOUSE, 404 Cross St., is another property included on the 2011 Petersburg Garden Week Tour. This frame home known as ‘Cross Cottage’, underwent a year-long restoration project in 2008 and received the Historic Petersburg Foundation Award for the Preservation Restoration Design. century house. The Vargos were able to move into their completely restored home in 2009.

This house is on the tour for the first time. Doug and Marie

Sunday, March 20, 2011 The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA

PI_PROGINDEX/SPECIAL_SECTION/PAGES [T04] | 03/18/11

15:08 | SUPERIMPPB

Vargo, owners.

• Ballenger Guest House, 404 Cross St., This frame home known as “Cross Cottage.” underwent a year-long restoration project in

2008 and received the Historic Petersburg Foundation Award for the Preservation Restoration Design. The original chimney remains intact with beams that have been salvaged from other older properties; custom-built 8foot windows have been installed on the street-side of this home and handsome, new heart-pine flooring is used throughout. An interesting mix of furniture pieces purchased from estate sales graces the living room and bedrooms. A noteworthy feature of the property is the presence of underground springs from Brickhouse Run which produces 2,500 gallons of drinkable water per day. An informal garden surrounds this charming cottage located in one of Petersburg’s historic neighborhoods. The hosue is open for the first time. Dana Ballenger, owner.

• Miller Cottage, 514-516 Grove Ave., This wooden frame one and one half story double house is located on Petersburg’s first street, originally Water Street, in the Old Please see TOUR, Page 5

TOUR

Continued from Page 4

Towne Historic District. The home, built circa 1834, was originally a residence on the right side and a shop on the left, now connected. The structure is of the Tidewater Colonial Vernacular style of architecture built on a stone foundation with a center chimney and four dormers; and today, after its renovation in 2008, the roofing is constructed of cedar shingles.

The interior of the home boasts two original staircases, wide shiplap boards and a living room with a Federal mantle flanked by two arch-

es. Within the informal garden a newly laid out period style vegetable garden has been created, and a small courtyard exists between the house and the cookhouse in which artifacts and pre- renovation photos are displayed.

This house is open for the first time. Mrs. Jeanette C. Miller, owner.

• D u n ova n t / F l o r i a Home, 531 Grove Ave, This frame home situated on the corner of Grove Avenue and Squaw Alley and located one block from the Appomattox River is a mesh of Colonial and Greek Revival architectural styles. The original structure dates to 1790 with additions, circa 1810, moved

PATRICK KANE/PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTO

The 2011 Petersburg Garden Day Tour will include the DUNOVANT/FLORIA HOME, 531 Grove Ave. This frame home, situated on the corner of Grove Avenue and Squaw Alley and located one block from the Appomattox River, is a mesh of Colonial and Greek Revival architectural styles.

The original structure dates to 1790 with additions, circa 1810, moved from two different locations.

from two different locations.

The tin roof, storefront areas and double porches are charming period details.

Original flooring is found in the “boys’ room” and the library/office, and five fireplaces with their original mantelpieces are located throughout the home. Many artifacts dating to the Civil War and earlier as well as several well-known potters’ pieces are on display in the library. The informal garden features a spring bulb collection and a flourishing kitchen herb garden.

This home is listed on the National Historic Building Survey and is open for the first time. Joseph Dunovant and Dani Floria, owners.

• J. Harrison Inc., 232 Grove Ave., The annual Historic Garden Day tea will be held in the garden of J. Harrison, Inc.. J. Harrison Inc. is not only a beauty salon set in a “Four Seasons Conservatory,” but also has a multi room loft on the upper level. The downstairs living quarters of this 1870s Italianate house will be open, and features a variety of artwork, and a grand mixture of contemporary furnishings and lovely antiques. After leaving the house, you enter a garden area that truly lends itself to outdoor entertaining.

The exposed aggregate patio has an edging of knock-out roses, azaleas, dogwood with large stone accent pieces.

An allee of Italian pencil cypress, with their heavenly smell, leads one to a large tent where the tea will be held. Beyond this area is a shade garden with stone benches, dogwood, Japanese maples, vibernum, hosta, Solomon’s seal, and a variety of spring blooming bulbs. Open for the first time. Mr. John Harrison Yosting Shumate, owner.

• Marie Bowen gardens.

Petersburg’s garden clubs Please see TOUR, Page 6

PATRICK KANE/PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTO

On the tour this year, visitors can experience the TURNER-FREEMAN HOUSE, 221 S. Sycamore St. In 1921, William J. Turner, a Petersburg brick contractor, bought the lot at 221 S. Sycamore St., and over the next year, built a state-of-the-art 14room home for his family. The home later became a boarding house, and in 1993 was purchased by Jay and Kay Freeman, who restored the house to the original 1920s grandeur.

Rollins R Ro olllliin nss

LLC. P ainting L LC .

Painting

Commercial/Residential • Interior/Exterior Carpentry Repairs NO MONEY UNTIL JOB IS COMPLETE!

ATTENTION COMMERCIAL CUSTOMERS: Glow in the dark paint now available for safety exits!

10% OFF

if job is scheduled by May 1, 2011 2 25 5 YYears ears EExperience xperience

FREE ESTIMATES

458-0800

www.rollinspainting.com

7725 25 W W.. B Broadway roadway H Hopewell opewell

Licensed and Insured

The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA Sunday, March 20, 2011 PI_PROGINDEX/SPECIAL_SECTION/PAGES [T05] | 03/18/11

15:58 | SUPERIMPPB

T5

TOUR

Continued from Page 5

have had a lengthy history of preserving native specimens and enhancing the natural beauty of our surrounding landscapes. In this tradition, the Raleigh Parish Garden Club, founded in 1960, selected as its project what is now known as the Marie Bowen Gardens. The gardens are a naturalized woodland park with walking trails featuring a wide array of azaleas, flowering trees and shrubs, native plants, and other horticultural specimens.

Owned by the City of Petersburg, these gardens have been maintained by the Raleigh Parish Garden Club for 30 years. The scenic park is nestled in the Walnut Hill area between Fairfax Street, Arch Street, and Arch Circle. The park was named in honor of devoted gardening friend, Marie Bowen, who both represented and acted upon the objectives of the Raleigh Parish Garden Club. She became an enormous force a l o n g w i t h d e d i c at e d Raleigh Parish members and other neighbors in taming a large, overgrown ravine by working over a thousand hours to propagate and establish native plants.

• Other places of interest include: Farmers Mar-

burg, VA 23805. Enclose a stamped, self-addressed, business-size envelope. For an additional charge, tickets may be ordered with a credit card by accessing www.

VAGardenweek.org For more information go to the Petersburg Garden Club web site at pgcvirginia. org.

Advance ticket sales: • Boulevard Flower Gardens, 2100 Ruffin Mill Road, Colonial Heights (804) 5264000 • The Cordial Crickett, 3524 Festival Park Plaza, Chester (804) 425-9768 • Palmore Decorating Center, 1927 South Sycamore St., Petersburg, (804) 732-8181 • Petersburg Visitors Center, Farmers Bank, 19 Bollingbrook St. Petersburg, (804) 733-2400 • The Siege Museum, 15 West Bank St., Petersburg, (804) 733-2404 • Windows ‘N’ Walls, 3701 Boulevard , Colonial Heights, (804) 527-7253

ket, Siege Museum, Blandford Church, Battersea.

Admission to the Revolutionary War Re-enactment at Battersea is an additional $5.

Block tickets for $25 includes all tour properties, gardens, refreshments, and Petersburg’s historic sites.

Children 13 and older, full price; ages 6-12, half price; 5 and under, admitted free.

Anyone 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult or guardian. Tickets available on tour day at each tour site. Houses need not be visited in the order listed. As a courtesy to the homeowners, please no high heels, no interior photography and no smoking.

Full tickets may be purchased in advance for $20 each at the locations listed below until Friday, April 15.

By mail: Send your request for tickets, no later than April 8 with a check, made payable to the Petersburg Garden Club, to Mrs. C.W. Wray, 10651 Johnson Road, Peters-

PATRICK KANE/PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTO

Above: THE CAMERON FOUNDATION, 228 S. Sycamore St., the Weddell-McCabe-Chisolm house, built between 1840 and 1845, and located in the Poplar Lawn section of Petersburg, has been completely restored and renovated, and is now the permanent headquarters for The Cameron Foundation. The restoration began in 2008, and was just completed in the fall of 2010. Over the years, the majestic clapboard Greek Revival style building has been a residence, school, motor inn, & boarding house, and was almost destroyed by fire a number of years ago. This property is featured on the 2011 Petersburg Garden Week Tour. Left: In this Progress-Index file photo, flowers bloom at a home that was featured on the 2009 homes and gardens tour in Petersburg.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR YOUR SPRING SPRUCE-UP We offer a complete line of: Lawncare • Landscaping Homeowner and Power Equipment Delivery and Pick-up Service Available

(804) 748-0145

1804 Coyote Dr., Chester, in Old Stage Corporate Park • www.chesterfieldrental.com

Commercial & Residential We Offer STAIN Resistant Protection

“SERVICE IS OUR SPECIALITY” Locally Owned & Operated by Guy and Holly Pond

(804) 520-1497

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

A professional job at a great price We also clean upholstery

T6

Sunday, March 20, 2011 The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA

PI_PROGINDEX/SPECIAL_SECTION/PAGES [T06] | 03/18/11

17:31 | SUPERIMPPB

SPRING COUPON SPECIALS

NO HIDDEN FEES OR CHARGES 1. Consultation 2. Vacuum 3. Hot Water Extraction

3 Areas only

$64

Let us do the work for you!

6 Areas only

$128

up to 250 sq.ft. per area

Being green at home doesn’t require a lot of green Tips for making your home more energy efficient FROM STAFF REPORTS

PETERSBURG — Having a green home has little to do with solar panels and wind generators. It is about being energy efficient, and it can be done without spending a fortune.

An important aspect in making your home more energy efficient is understanding the environmental attributes of the area around the house. According to Patrick Farley, a Richmond architect, it is necessary to look at the connections that

a house can have to the out- energy conservation are doors to gain a better under- intertwined,” Farley said. standing of the environmenAnother way a person can tal benefits it can offer. make their home green is “[Building g re e n ] i s a s much about architecture for health and sense of place as it is the benefits of [environment],” said Farley, who is also the founder of the Richmond-based — Pstrick Farley, architect Wat e r s h e d Architects.

Farley said one way that people can live a green lifestyle is to con- through landscape. Farley serve water when brushing said trees that are strategiPROGRESS-INDEX FILE PHOTO teeth or washing dishes. cally placed on the south “A lot of people don’t realThe Dinwiddie home of Bill and Bonnie Balis features many green features and Please see GREEN, Page 10 ize water conservation and technologies.

“A lot of people don’t realize water conservation and energy conservation are intertwined.”

If you invest in an American Standard high-efficiency system to heat and cool your home, let this serve as fair warning. You may find yourself enjoying the great indoors more than the great outdoors. American Standard systems are designed to keep your home comfortable all year long. Plus, the revolutionary American Standard AccuCleanTM whole home air filtration system will let your family breathe easier with a level of clean indoor air thatʼs never been available before. Choose American Standard, and no matter what the weather outside, inside youʼll be more comfortable than ever.

The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA Sunday, March 20, 2011 PI_PROGINDEX/SPECIAL_SECTION/PAGES [T07] | 03/18/11

16:02 | SUPERIMPPB

T7

GREEN

Continued from Page 7

side of a home can reduce the energy the building uses to keep cool, as it blocks the sun’s exposure to the house.

People should also be “aware of the conditions outside and not use air condition if [they] don’t need it”, said Farley.

Nestled between Lake Chesdin and a small garden of blackberries and grapes is an energy-efficient house that was designed by Farley.

He designed the house to be wheelchair accessible and efficient for Bill and Bonnie Balis.

The house was built using tighter insulation and a metal roof, which according to Bill Balis, has a life expectancy of at least 100 years.

“It was a more expensive roof but I will never have to replace it,” Balis said.

The roof is also designed to allow the Balises to add solar panels to it if they ever decide to. They also have a geothermal heating system and a propane hot water heater that works only when they use it.

The lake-front house also has many windows, which according to Balis, helps the house be energy efficient.

“The house is not a lavish place. The intent was to be efficient,” Balis said. “We tried to be as economical and as efficient as we could.”

Energy-efficient housing is also made available in Petersburg, through a nonprofit organization called Pathways. The nonprofit builds and renovates houses that are energy efficient and affordable.

The houses are built in accordance with EarthCraft House guidelines. EarthCraft House is a green building program that provides

building guidelines for homes that reduce utility bills and protect the environment.

The houses that are built and renovated by Pathways are affordable housing for people with a low income.

People living in houses built

by Pathways do not have to save money to maintain the house, said Mike Watts, the executive director of Shalom Homes, the construction subsidiary of Pathways.

“We put on extras that raise the production cost [of the houses] but end up costing less for maintenance,” Watts said.

Wooden floors, a metal roof and an insulated foundation are standard in houses built by Pathways. “[Building the houses] fit our mission,” Watts said.

“We decided we were going to produce the highest quality housing in this city.”

Eight tips for living green at home 1) Change light bulbs 2) Conserve water (ex: watch water usage when brushing teeth or washing dishes) 3) Reduce thermostat setting 4) Be aware of the conditions outside and don’t use air conditioning if you don’t need it. 5) Use shades, particularly on the south side of the home to reduce energy.

6) Plant trees on the south side of your home to help reduce the energy the building uses.

7) If you have an older home that has a lot of windows or single paned windows then put plastic on the inside of the window to cut the heat in half.

8) Keep up general maintenance on your home to make sure that you are not wasting energy or water

Let Ace Recycling Help You With All Your Spring Projects.

Spring Cleaning Home Remodeling New Construction

Get The Best Price And Improve The Enviroment By Calling Ace Recycling for All of your dumpster needs T10

Sunday, March 20, 2011 The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA

PI_PROGINDEX/SPECIAL_SECTION/PAGES [T10] | 03/18/11

14:06 | SUPERIMPPB

PROGRESS-INDEX FILE PHOTOS

Left: The Dinwiddie home of Bill and Bonnie Balis features many green features and technologies, including this tankless water heater. Top: Richmond architect, Patrick Farley, built the lake-front home for Bill and Bonnie Balis. The home features many windows, a geothermal heating system and a propane hot water heater that works only when it is used.

Love of yard work blossoms into career for local man TAMILIA HICKS STAFF WRITER

PRINCE GEORGE — Heaton’s Lawn Maintenance has been up and running for almost 12 years now.

After more than a dozen years in business, owner Mike Heaton believes his firm is one of the best in the region.

“We are very dependable, always had the right equipment to get the job done, and excellent customer service,” Heaton said.

The firm specializes in lawn and landscape service, bush hogging, fence repair, and tree trimming to just name a few. The business services both commercial and residential properties.

Heaton, who has been cutting grass since he was a child, always had a love for

yard work. He says he used to cut grass and do yard work for anyone who would ask and the elderly in his neighborhood. Soon the opportunity came for him to start his own business and he quickly ran with it and has been successful ever since.

His philosophy is that it is appropriate to give a customer what they want, when they want it, and for a reasonable price. “I feel that someone should choose us for service because we are a family-owned and operated business, and have been so for over 11 years, and we actually care about our customers,” he said.

In the next five years, Heaton hopes to have a new facility that customers can come to and get advice, products, and services scheduled for their projects. As well, they will offer a — “We

install everything we sell” — motto for the customers who prefer to not take on a job themselves. They would like a location where they can see top soil, mulch, compost in bulk, and seed and fertilizer. They also envision having a small plant nursery in the future.

“We are more than happy with the customers we have met and with the relationships we have made with the customers in the Tri-Cities,” Heaton said. “We look forward to a long-lasting relationship with them. We also look forward to establishing and building relationships with many new customers in this 2011 season.”

For more information call 804-862-LAWN or e-mail at heatonslawn@aol.com. The PATRICK KANE/PROGRESS-INDEX PHOTO firm is located at 8800 ComHeaton’s Lawn Maintenance is a business in Prince George County. munity Lane, Suite #102, Petersburg, VA 23805

Mulch has multiple functions in garden How to choose the right type FISHERSVILLE—There are many types of mulch to choose from when buying garden supplies. Some is mixed into soil as a conditioner, while other types are used as a top layer that holds in moisture, stabilizes soil temperature and deters weeds.

“It’s important that you don’t use something that’s going to break down quickly, and something that lasts a long time, because your labor in applying [mulch] needs to

be taken into account,” said horticulturist Mark Viette of Viette Nurseries.

Also, look for “something that really allows water to go through it and doesn’t allow weeds to grow in it.”

Viette is the host of a gardening segment on Down Home Virginia, a monthly television program produced

by Virginia Farm Bureau.

When mulch is applied in the spring, it will hold in soil moisture for the dry months ahead. “Normally, the best time to mulch is right before forsythias bloom, but if you miss that, you can still apply mulch later,” Viette said. “I prefer pine [mulch], because

pine lasts longer than hardwoods. What you find with hardwoods is they break down very quickly, but some of these pine products can last as long as 12 months, 14 months and 17 months.”

Weed garden beds before mulching. Viette recommended dumping small piles of mulch and then distributing it into a layer that’s 2 to 3 inches thick. Keep mulch away from plants that reseed themselves, like hellebores, because mulching can prevent the new seeds from germinating.

• This information was provided by the Virginia Farm Bureau.

House Cleaning At Your Service Weekly, Biweekly, & Monthly Quality & Reliable Service At A Great Price

THE CLEANING JEANNIE

804-721-1921

Pin Oak Electrical Service VA Master Electrician #2710 049689 VA Electrical Contractor #2705 133348

No Job Too Small Written Warranty

Senior & Military Discount

(804) 894-3907

Colonial Heights, Virginia www.pinoakelectrical.com The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA Sunday, March 20, 2011

PI_PROGINDEX/SPECIAL_SECTION/PAGES [T11] | 03/18/11

16:03 | SUPERIMPPB

T11

Home improvement projects for spring

(StatePoint) For many Americans the warmer weather of spring means it’s time to focus on all those home improvement projects that would be inconvenient during winter. Adding an extension, sanding wooden floors or replacing a roof are a lot easier when you’re not worried about the weather and diminished day light. Also, contractors are less likely to have weatherrelated delays that blow timelines, making spring renovations run more smoothly.

Here are some home improvement projects you may want to start this season: • Replace the roof: If your roof is starting to leak or you notice dramatic increases in heating or cooling bills, it may be time to replace it. The best time to do so is when the weather is warm and dry. Keep in mind the U.S. Department of Energy recommends light roofing colors, which will keep down cooling costs and help reduce global warming. For more energy-saving

home improvement tips, visit www. energy.gov.

• Check the perimeter: Inspect your home’s exterior, making sure to check your siding. Mold and cracks can be a sign you need to repaint or replace boards. Also, now may be a good time to repave your driveway. Asphalt needs the right factors of temperature and moisture to set properly. Better weather leads to better driveways.

• Add a fireplace: Fireplaces are great focal points to any home, and now homeowners can double their impact by adding see-through fireplaces that can be installed between rooms or even to warm a patio. Versatile fireplaces, like the Montebello See-Through by Lennox Hearth Products, can be installed between a kitchen and dining room or between a living room and patio, creating a dramatic effect. You can learn more at www.lennox.com.

“An indoor/outdoor installment is a great way to enjoy your fireplace year-round,” says Bill Wetzel,

product manager of Fireplace Systems for Lennox. “After all, who wants to spend money on home improvements you can only use half the year?”

• Tinker with plumbing: Because bathroom and kitchen renovations often require plumbing changes, the warmer months are the best for these projects. Now’s the ideal time to expand that half-bathroom with a shower stall, or to upgrade your master bathroom with a whirlpool tub. And there are many choices of eco-friendly fixtures from such brands as Delta, Kohler, American Standard and others.

• Install skylights: With longer days and clear, starry nights, it’s the season for gazing at the sky. But allergens can make sky gazing difficult for some. Consider installing skylights in your home this season.

• Sand the Floor: Most people think of floor maintenance as a cool weather activity, but floor sanding kicks up incredible amounts of dust. In warmer weather, you can

STATEPOINT PHOTO

Some improvements can enhance both indoor and outdoor spaces. throw open doors and windows and set up fans to suck the dust outward.

The better weather makes almost

all home improvement projects more enjoyable. So take advantage of the season to upgrade your home.

Prompt Installation • 24/7 Emergency Service Dependable Automatic Delivery • Experiened Service Technicians Guaranteed Price Programs • Easy Payment Options Builders Program

(804) 862-4560 Residential AmeriGas provides consumer propane services to more than one million people just like you, including: propane home heating, propane water heating, and propane for drying clothes.

We also offer various delivery options and flexible payment and service plans to make propane work effortlessly for you.

Business You deserve nothing less than the best propane service for your business. We know how vital propane is to operating your business at maximum efficiency.

Many different commercial settings rely on AmeriGas propane every day to keep their businesses running, including: building construction sites, filling stations, restaurants, hotels, schools, crematories, vehicles and forklifts.

We work with you through various delivery options, flexible payment and service plans to make propane work effortlessly for you and your business.

T12

Sunday, March 20, 2011 The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA

PI_PROGINDEX/SPECIAL_SECTION/PAGES [T12] | 03/18/11

16:03 | SUPERIMPPB

4 overlooked spots to spring clean (StatePoint) Is your spring cleaning routine sufficient? Or do you suspect dirt may be lurking in places you’ve never even put on your to-do list?

If you’re like most Americans, chances are you forgot some of these often overlooked spots while spring cleaning: In the Kitchen Most people hit the stove, fridge and the microwave. But there are more places in the kitchen needing your attention. All cupboards and pantries should be cleared and re-stocked at least once yearly to dispose of expired food and guard against insects and rodents.

Also make sure you clean your can opener! This often used, rarely cleaned tool can be a trap for bacteria and spores. Use Q-Tips and soapy water to wipe down every nook and cranny, including the gears.

In the Laundry Room Have you noticed an unusual funk coming from your washing machine? This may be because the new, high-efficiency washers use less water than traditional ones, caus-

ing residue buildup from dirty clothes, detergent and hard water minerals. If so, it’s time to clean your machine. Something as simple as Tide’s Washing Machine Cleaner, which comes in a small packet you drop into a normal cycle without clothes, can keep your machine smelling fresh.

Once you’ve got your washing machine clean, next focus on what you put in it. With spring and summer whites sure to be washed this time of year, consider switching to a detergent with both stain fighting and whitening power, such as Tide plus Bleach Powder. And look for a new concentrated version, which not only gives you the same cleaning with 1/3 less detergent, but helps save you space and helps save the planet by reducing packaging.

In the Bedroom Spring cleaning usually involves a change of bedding, but how about those decorative pillows or stuffed animals in children’s rooms? Because of their soft, uneven surfaces, they’re prime locations for dust and allergens. Sticking them in plastic bags and then in the freezer for four hours

will kill dust mites. Then use a vacuum to suck up dead carcasses.

You should also pay attention to ceiling fans, crown moldings and even the walls.

It’s best to use a damp cloth to wipe down all surfaces. Dry feather dusters tend to kick up dust and allergens, which settle back down in the same place.

In the Living Room Window treatments and lampshades attract dust and germs as much as any other home surface, but are easily cleaned using removable vacuum attachments, such as a combo brush or crevice tool extension.

And don’t skip floor vents, door jams, and window sills. These areas are often overlooked and can collect years of grime.

Of course, regular cleaning is the best way to minimize your spring cleaning.

To find products that can help make cleaning less of a chore, visit www.tide.

STATEPOINT/OLENA TALBERG-FOTOLIA.COM com.

Then get to it. After all, a clean home is Dirt and odors can lurk in your washing a happy home. machine.

The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA Sunday, March 20, 2011 PI_PROGINDEX/SPECIAL_SECTION/PAGES [T13] | 03/18/11

14:16 | SUPERIMPPB

T13

Get your deck ready for spring and summer (StatePoint) As the days get longer, there’s nothing like barbequing and entertaining friends on your deck. But before you pass out those invitations, make sure your deck has weathered the winter and is ready for its seasonal duty.

The abuse a deck surface takes from the weather, foot traffic, barbeques, and food and drink spills can create both surface and structural problems.

“To make your deck last, clean it thoroughly every one to two years and re-stain every two to four years,” says Mark Clement, host of the radio program “MyFixitUpLife.” “It also helps if your deck is made from a natural, durable wood, such as Western Red Cedar, which holds oil based finishes for an extended period of time.”

Here’s how to get your deck ready for use: • Clear out: Clear all furniture and potted plants off the deck.

Then inspect the deck for dirt and pollen buildup. Sweep it clean of debris that may have fallen during winter. For safety’s sake, make sure there are no nails sticking up from the deck or from any posts.

• Floss between planks: Clean between the planks and boards of any horizontal surfaces so rain can drain and air can flow between them. Reducing standing water and increasing airflow will limit the amount of moisture that can collect and stay on the surface of the plank, thereby making your deck last longer.

• Keep the finish sharp: Application of a quality wood stain or finish and periodic retreatment over time will prevent discoloration and degradation of your deck and extend the wood’s lifespan. Keep in mind that natural woods that are sustainable and durable, such as real cedar, can take and retain a variety of stains and finishes for more

extended periods. Such woods are natural looking, as opposed to the faux finishes used on manmade composite products.

• Elevate planters: Direct contact between planter boxes and wooden surfaces can trap moisture and leave stains. Elevating them or placing them on rollers will release the moisture and make them easier to rearrange.

• Beware of welcome mats: Mats can collect moisture and dry out too slowly, which can lead to water damage and/or wood rot.

After precipitation, be sure to dry out the mat and allow the deck to dry.

• Watch out for your grill: Grease from your grill is hazardous to your deck, so place it in an inconspicuous spot with a hard rubber door mat underneath it to keep your deck free of stains.

If grease drips onto your deck, use a household cleaner to wipe it clean.

GET 25 BUCKS OFF THE BEST SERVICE WE CAN BRING ON. When you have a repair on your plumbing or air conditioning system, you’re already not having a good day. So we’d to make things easier on your wallet. Clip this coupon for $25 savings on your repair bill, and just give us a call.

Our repair professionals will work to get your problem solved in no time. So give us a call, and we’ll give you our best service as quickly as we can.

Colonial Plumbing & Heating 804-526-8415

www.colonialplumbing.com (We recommend cutting this out and putting it on your refrigerator. Just a thought!)

$25

T14

Sunday, March 20, 2011 The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA

PI_PROGINDEX/SPECIAL_SECTION/PAGES [T14] | 03/18/11

16:04 | SUPERIMPPB

STATEPOINT PHOTO

Make sure your deck is clean and safe before entertaining.

For more advice on caring for decks, visit www.wrcla.org.

“It’s easy to forget that decks need maintenance and care just like your lawn or roof,” says Clem-

ent “By performing routine checks and taking care of the warning signs, homeowners can extend the life of their decks so they can be enjoyed for years to come.”

Serving the Tri-Cities and the surrounding areas for over 11 years as a family-owned, family-operated business.

Serving the Tri-Cities and surrounding areas since 1999, Heaton’s works closely with commercial development. Recently acquiring our new commercial location, we pride ourselves in being not only a family-owned business, but in being honest and trustworthy.

HEATON’S LAWN MAINTENANCE 804-862-LAWN

We acquire all necessary State and Local licenses, including our Class “A” license, which allows us to do renovations and repairs. We have also become EPA Lead-Certified to work on homes built prior to 1978.

Heaton’s Lawn Maintenance services both residential and commercial properties providing seeding & fertilizing, lawn care & landscape maintenance; hardscaping, planting trees, flowers & shrubs; mulching, leaf & debris removal, and much more.

IIt’s t ’ s ttime i m e ffor or w e e d i n g , feeding, feeding, & s eeding! weeding, seeding!

Do You Want a Beautiful Lawn? Let our expert team do the work.

We take pride in all of our landscaping and lawn maintenance projects. Whether they’re residential properties or commercial properties, all work is completed in a timely manner with thorough pre-planning prior to beginning the manual labor. A written estimate is provided for every job.

AFTER

BEFORE

One Call Does It All!

We are licensed and insured.

Lawn & Landscape Maintenance • Grading • Bush Hogging • Gutter Cleaning • Hardscaping Seeding & Fertilizing • Aerating • Leaf & Debris Removal • Tree Trimming • Mulching Pothole Patching • Fence Repair • Power Washing • And More!

CALL NOW! FOR A FREE ESTIMATE 804-862-LAWN (804-862-5296) www.heatonslawn.com

The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA Sunday, March 20, 2011 PI_PROGINDEX/ADVERTISING/AD_PAGES [T15] | 03/18/11

14:53 | SUPERIMPPB

T15

3 Rooms of furniture only INCLUDES LIVINGROOM, BEDROOM & DININGROOM

$289

$999

NO CREDIT CHECK FINANCING Text “Sofa” to 25827 to receive specials

NO CREDIT CHECK FINANCING BRING THESE ITEMS TO OUR STORE: 1. Most recent pay stub.

2. Most recent bank statement.

3. Blank check for account verification.

$299

sofa

sofa $399

sofa

sofa $379

sofa $329

sofa $199 3 pc

Queen- size Canopy Bed $89

3pc

$169

$399 your choice dresser & mirror or Queen Sleigh bed

your choice starting from

$199

SOLID WOOD BED

$269

$299 5 pc

5 pc

$399

$199

5 pc

5 pc

$199

$259

$399 5pc

Poster Plus

Sterling Firm

Briarcliff

Twin ea.pc.

Twin ea.pc.

Twin ea.pc.

$59

$69

Full Queen ea.pc. $74 $94

Full Queen ea.pc. $84 $109

ea.pc.

ea.pc.

Full

ea.pc.

$199

Sea Breeze Twin ea.pc.

$99

$84

Queen King(3pc) Full ea.pc.

$119

ea.pc.

$116

ea.pc.

Queen King(3pc)

$119

ea.pc.

ea.pc.

$139 $143

ea.pc.

ea.pc.

Perfect Rest Pillowtop Twin ea.pc.

Full

ea.pc.

ea.pc.

$164 $189 $183

ea.pc.

Twin ea.pc.

$124

ea.pc.

ea.pc.

Royal Sleep

Queen King(3pc) Full ea.pc.

ea.pc.

ea.pc.

Statesman

$174

$214

Twin ea.pc.

$149

ea.pc.

$189 $199 $199

ea.pc.

RICHMOND

ea.pc.

Empire Plush

Queen King(3pc) Full ea.pc.

ea.pc.

Twin ea.pc.

Queen King(3pc) Full Queen King(3pc) ea.pc. ea.pc. ea.pc. ea.pc.

ea.pc.

$224 $249 $216

$274 $299 $249

804-353-6444 Factory Direct Furniture 4823 Bethlehem Rd. Richmond VA 23230

5pc

Queen Size mattress sets

Twin ea.pc.

ea.pc.

$299

Twin 2pc set Full 2pc set Queen 2pc set King 3pc set

Sterling Pillowtop Each Piece Heavenly Plus Twin ea.pc.

Pricing Twin ea.pc.

Applies When $109 $119 $109 Full Queen King(3pc) Full Queen King(3pc) Sold In Sets Full Queen King(3pc) Only $139 $149 $149 $139 $149 $149 $149 $164 $166

Chiro Firm

$199

$14.95 $79 Large Selection of Accessories

Brand New Quality Mattresses made in USA

www.myfdf.com

2 pc

$129

$19

Sunday, March 20, 2011 The Progress-Index, Petersburg, VA

PI_PROGINDEX/ADVERTISING/AD_PAGES [T16] | 03/18/11

15:08 | SUPERIMPPB

$39

Quality Furniture No Credit Check Financing FREE Layaway

Same day delivery

DON’T miss these deals !

COLONIAL HEIGHTS

804-520-9556

Factory Direct Furniture 1502 Boulevard Colonial Heights VA 23834

Mon-Fri 10am - 8pm Saturday 10am - 7pm I-64 to Exit 185 Staples Mill Sunday 12pm - 6pm Rd. East, turn left at 1st At the corner of Branders light (Bethlehem Rd.), we Bridge Rd and The are the 1st building on Checks/Cash/ATM/Debit Boulevard across right, 2nd driveway Follow us on Facebook at Furniture Alliance from City Hall. behind Shell Station. Not all items available at all locations. See store for availability.

T16

Free Layaway!

Low Prices

$279 Bunckbeds starting from

GET APPROVED TODAY!