homefront spring 2016
DESCRIPTION
Don't miss the spring issue of Home Front magazine featuring stories on plant/landscaping/gardening techniques, a how-to on organizing your home, a feature on a local couple who restored 20 acres to native plants and an overview of what the official bird of the Chippewa Valley should be.TRANSCRIPT
homefront
Leader-Telegram Magazine Spring 2016
home&garden solutions&projects
New
for
2016garden
trends
Make Spring an organizing season
Bird of the Valley
Native kNowledge
2 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
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*Coupon code 3216 must be presented at time of application to receive $250 off closing costs on any new AnchorBank residential first mortgage. Property must be owner-occupied. Refinances of existing AnchorBank mortgages do not qualify. Not valid with any other offers. Not valid on Refinance Express. To receive the $250 off closing cost offer you must have an AnchorBank checking account with direct deposit and auto-pay for the loan. Offer expires 5/31/16. ©2016 AnchorBank, fsb. NMLS 510462. AnchorBank is a service mark of Anchor BanCorp Wisconsin Inc. EQUAL HOUSING
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Linda Burgess, NMLS #555783Chippewa Falls 302 Bay St. | 723-4414Eau Claire 3406 Oakwood Hills Pkwy. | 834-1111Stanley 101 N. Broadway St. | 644-5555Direct Line: [email protected] www.anchorbank.com/lburgess
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Aug - Oct applesMAy - June asparagus
Aug - Sept basilJuly - Sept beans
July - Oct beetsAug blackberries
July - Sept blueberriesJune - Aug bok choy
June - Sept broccoli July - nOv cabbage June - Oct carrots
Aug - nOv cauliflowerJuly - Sept corn
July - Sept cucumbersJuly - Oct eggplant
Aug - nOv garlicSept - Oct grapes
July - Sept green beansMAy - July green onions
leeks Aug - Oct
lettuce June - Aug
melons Aug - Sept
onions Aug - Oct
parsnips Oct - nOv
peas June - July
peppers July - Sept
potatoes July - Oct
pumpkins Oct
radishes MAy - July
raspberries July - Sept
rhubarb MAy - June
spinach MAy - July
squash July - Oct
strawberries June - July
tomatoes July - Oct
turnips Aug - nOv
wax beans July - Sept
zucchini July - Aug
HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 3
foodlocal
Ha
rv
est
sc
He
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le
Farmers marketsEau Claire Downtown Farmers Market300 Riverfront Ter, Eau Claire WI 54701 Located in the North portion of Phoenix Park, next to the Madison Street Bridge Open: 6/3/2016 through 10/31/2016
Saturdays in May 7:30am - 1:00pm
Days & Hours: Wednesday 7:30am-1:00pm; Thursdays Noon to 5:00pm; Saturdays 7:30am - 1:00pm 715-563-2644 ecdowntownfarmersmarket.com
Eau Claire Farmers Market3310 E. Hamilton Ave and 2717 Birch St, Eau Claire, WI Open: June 4, 2016 through mid-October Days & Hours: Tuesday & Saturday 8:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. on East Hamilton
Wednesday 8:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. on Birch Street 715-497-5207 [email protected] Eauclairefarmersmarket.com
Eau Claire Festival Foods Sunday MarketEau Claire WI, Festival Foods Parking Lot Open: June through October Days & Hours: Sunday 8:00 am - 2:00 pm 715-838-1000 [email protected]
Chippewa Falls Farmers’ Market Market Lot, 53 E. Central St., Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 Open: 6/16/2016 through mid-October Days & Hours: Thursday Noon-6:00pm www.chippewafallsmainst.org
4 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
Spri
ng
O
rgan
izin
g
Garden
Trends 2016
Nat
ive
Know
lead
able
Bird of the Valley31
Home Front Editor [email protected] 715-830-5926 or 800-236-7077
Graphic Artist Angela Rediess
Sales Director [email protected] 715-833-7420
Magazine Advertising & Distribution [email protected]
Next issue: August 2016Published three times a year by the Leader-Telegram Advertising Department. P.O. Box 570. Eau Claire, WI 54702-0570. Copyright 2016 Eau Claire Press Company. All rights reserved.
Available online at www.leadertelegram.com
Rose Quartz & Serenity
Pantone’s Colors of the Year
7
14
20
HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 5
in this issue
20
cover shot
your VoTE counTs!Mail in your ballot for
Bird of the Valley on page 38. you could win.
Jennifer SchmidtNative KnowledgePG 20
Heather Rothbauer-WanishSpring OrganizingPG 7
local writers
Steve BetchkalBird of the ValleyPG 31
NativeKnowledgeable
Nancy SkelleyGarden TrendsPG 14
sponsored content
6 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
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GO Chippewa Valley is a website offered by HSHS Sacred Heart St. Joseph’s that offers health assessments, tips and regimens to keep our community healthy. They suggest the following:
To reduce The risk of chronic disease in adulThood: Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity, above usual activity, at work or home on most days of the week.
To help manage body weighT and prevenT gradual, unhealThy body weighT gain in adulThood: Engage in approximately 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity activity on most days of the week.
To susTain weighT loss in adulThood: Participate in at least 60 to 90 minutes of daily moderate-intensity physical activity while not exceeding caloric intake requirements. Some people may need to consult with a healthcare provider before participating in this level of activity.
To keep yourself motivated, the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute and the American Council on Exercise (ACE) suggests the following:
Tips To keep moTivaTed:
Don’t fall for “all or nothing” thinking. To condition your heart and lungs, regular exercise does not have to take more than 30 to 60 minutes, three or four times a week. If you don’t have 30 minutes in your schedule for an exercise break, try two 15-minute periods or even three 10-minute periods.
Focus on the benefits, such as burning calories, finding more energy and stamina, lowering risks of heart disease, diabetes, and other diseases, building muscle strength, and losing weight.
Do what you enjoy. If you dislike organized sports, choose an easy activity that you enjoy such as walking, dancing or swimming.
Make goals you can keep. If your long-term goal seems difficult to reach, break it down into shorter, more manageable goals. For example, if you want to walk a mile a day, begin with a quarter mile, and work your way up. By setting short-term goals, you’re less likely to get discouraged.
Focus on your progress. As you start feeling more fit, remember how you felt when you were just starting out and feel proud of what you’re accomplishing.
Be flexible. If your current routine is losing its appeal, look around for other activities you might enjoy. Consider getting friends or family members involved so you can encourage each other.
To learn more ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle and get connected to additional resources, visit www.uwgcv.org/health. Working together, we can make sure the Chippewa Valley will be stronger.
The latest County Health Rankings (countyhealthrankings.org) show a
continued increase in unhealthy weight in adults (32 percent in Eau Claire County and 29 percent in Chippewa County). Twenty-one
percent of area adults are physically inactive, which is a contributing factor to unhealthy
weight and increased risk of chronic disease. These health risks include heart disease and
stroke, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.
MOTIVATE YOURSELF
TO BE HEALTHIER
By James Peters, United Way of the Greater Chippewa Valley
HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 7
cleanspring
Cont. on page 8
Make Spring an organizing season
By Heather Rothbauer-Wanish
As spring arrives, many people begin to think about spring cleaning and re-organizing their home. What
better time of year to clean out the basement, sift through the closets and arrange those
over-stuffed drawers? If that organizing or deep cleaning seems overwhelming
or causes panic for you, it’s good to know there are professionals
in the Chippewa Valley that can help you with
bringing order to your house.
Ashley Kosarek of AMK
Cleaning has some advice for the homeowner
looking to perform some spring sprucing-up.
Her first tip: When it comes to cleaning, it’s easiest to keep things
accessible.
“I recommend having a vacuum and mop on each level of a home for easy access and do the
same with cleaning supplies,” Kosharek said.
She also suggests staggering the rooms being cleaned. “Sometimes it’s easier to just clean one room at a time while
using it rather than doing a complete overhaul of the whole home on a day off or busy weeknight,” she said.
cleanspring
8 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
Cont. on page 10
Cont. from page 7
She also suggests staggering the rooms being cleaned. “Sometimes it’s easier to just clean one room at a time while using it rather than doing a complete overhaul of the whole home on a day off or busy weeknight,” she said.
AMK Cleaning offers cleaning services for the residential, commercial and new construction industries. “We offer a custom-tailored cleaning plan specific to each client and their needs,” owner Ashley Kosharek said. “We want our clients to have a relationship with their cleaning team as if they had hired an individual to perform services, but with the added security, insurance and availability that a cleaning service offers.”
One of the common things Kosharek sees is that her clients don’t make a plan when it comes to organizing or cleaning.
“Without a plan, it’s hard to figure out where to start,” she said. “The job then becomes overwhelming and then our fight or flight response comes in and we may just avoid the task altogether.”
With the current trend toward green products, Ashley also recommends eliminating as many harsh chemicals as possible. “There are many cleaning products out there and they can help make cleaning easier. But, people also need to remember that cleaning is less about the products you use and more about the ‘elbow grease’ put into the task,” she said.
Kosharek has been operating AMK Cleaning, based in Eau Claire, for approximately four years. “I always knew I wanted to be in business and I had tried my hand at many things, but nothing quite felt right,” she said. “Before owning my business, I worked for and with many small business owners helping them manage and build their businesses, learning many skills this way. Looking back, I now realize that working for these small business owners was my working education preparing me for where I am today.”
In the cleaning business, Kosharek and her team work with many clients that also need organizing advice. She recommends first deciding on a room and then start sorting.
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HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 9
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Windows play an integral role in your home. Beauty, comfort, and increased energy efficiency are all excellent reasons to replace your old windows. Plus, when windows are leaky and don’t work properly, they can be frustrating to operate.
Window shopping, however, can be trying for some consumers, especially considering the maze of choices. The experts at Renewal by Andersen® offer consumers these window-shopping tips to simplify the process:
Work with trained window experts. Trained window professionals at Renewal by Andersen’s various dealers will help you understand a window’s performance, answer questions about energy efficiency and provide sound advice about your window replacement project.
Choose high-quality windows with a reliable warranty. Carefully read the warranty information before you purchase your windows. Consider asking the following questions about the warranty: How long does it last? Does it include installation? What is excluded from the warranty? Is it fully transferrable?
Choose windows that are custom-made to exact measurements. To maximize performance and provide long-term efficiency, a replacement window must fit well in the opening. Choose replacement windows that are custom-built to precisely fit each window opening in your home.
Use professional installers. Installation is a key component to any window replacement project. Even the highest quality windows will underperform if installed incorrectly. Choose installers that can provide technical expertise and judgment for determining the best installation method. Better yet, choose a company that includes installation as a key part of their window replacement process with installation included in their warranty.
Choose low-maintenance windows. Windows made from composite materials can be a good option for homeowners who like the look and strength of wood windows but also want the low-maintenance features of vinyl. Composite windows don’t need ongoing staining or painting to maintain their natural beauty — saving time and money.
For more information on Renewal by Andersen windows, call Asher Lasting Exteriors at 715-832-7282 or toll free 888-462-7437. www.goasher.com.
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cleanspring
10 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
Cont. on page 12
Cont. from page 8
802444 4-9-16
“Begin with a ‘Yes’ pile, a ‘Maybe’ pile, and a ‘No/Donate’ pile,” she said. “This allows you to quickly sort through where your attachment lies with the item. A good theory is asking yourself if you’ve used it in the last six months or if you plan to use it in the next six months. If the answer is ‘no,’ then the item can go to the No/Donate pile.”
After people utilize this system and see how much stuff they still have left in the Maybe or Yes piles, it becomes easier to make another No/Donate pile.
Nancy Rothwell, a well-known organizer in the Chippewa Valley and beyond, started Straighten-Up Organizing in 2003. After helping several friends with organizing, she realized that she could charge for her services and build a career doing what she loved. “I was fortunate to be a stay-at-home mom at that time and my son was starting kindergarten, so the timing was perfect,” Rothwell said.
As a professional organizer, Nancy works with clients to enhance their lives by developing custom organizing systems and teaching organizational skills. “Clients often have busy schedules and quickly become frustrated by their own lack of organization. I help people de-clutter, sort, and organize their belongings to help make sense of and maximize the utilization of their possessions,” she said.
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HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 11
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I hear this question often. And, because windows vary so much in style, construction and function, they always end up playing an extremely important role in every decorating plan.
Here are some things you need to think about before planning your next custom window treatment design:
1. Function.How is the window being used? Do you need to block outdoor light? Is privacy your priority? Or, do you have a beautiful view that needs capturing?
2. Focal points.Are your windows a natural dramatic architectural feature of your room? If so, you have a built-in focal point, and should plan your treatments accordingly. If not, then consider working with a professional decorator to make your window treatments true show stoppers!
3. style.What’s yours? Casual? Formal? Traditional? Contemporary? Window treatment designs vary greatly by design style, so think about the ultimate style and feeling you’d like to incorporate into their design.
4. challenges.Are your windows too small? Too large? A carefully designed window treatment can actually be a clever cover-up to any window challenge.
Because there are so many fabulous window treatment design options available today, it’s wise to start doing your homework early. And remember, by working with a professional decorator, your window treatments are guaranteed to be the perfect design and function solution!
Call, 715-764-1166 to schedule a complimentary, in-home consultation with a Decorating Den Interiors decorating professional. Please enjoy 20% off now until 06-30-16 of window treatments including draperies and blinds.
Visit www.decoratingden.com for more information.
Confused about whiCh window treatment is right for you?
Article & photos provided by Decorating Den Interiors.Jan Wachewicz, Owner/Decorator
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Tips for organizing from Nancy Rothwell
• GetridofANYTHINGyounolongerneedanduse
• Sort‘like’itemstogetherandcontainerize
• Onlyhaveonelocationinyourhome/businessfor‘like’items
• ‘Store’itemsyoudon’tuseineverydaylife(photos, holiday decorations, off-season clothing, etc.)
cleanspring
12 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
Cont. from page 10
802629 4-9-16
As Rothwell’s business has grown, she has found herself working with clients that have large closets, but the system inside is inappropriate for how they want to use it. Fortunately, she knows exactly where to turn for assistance. Bryce Rothwell, Nancy’s husband, started Not Just Closets in 2008. “At the time I started my business, I had worked for the same company for 20 years and was looking for a new adventure,” Bryce Rothwell said.
Bryce Rothwell works with clients to create and install storage solutions for all areas of their homes, including closets, pantries, laundry areas and garages. “We go to the client’s home to meet in-person, measure the areas, and create an instant 3D visual design after discussing how each area will be utilized. Designs are specific to each individual client,” Bryce Rothwell said.
While Nancy Rothwell loves organizing, she realizes that some people may cringe at the idea. “Getting organized can be a fun project when you work with a professional rather than by yourself,” she said.
For those getting ready to move to a new home, Nancy Rothwell also offers some suggestions. “Get rid of the things you no longer need or use before you move,” she said. “When you are packing, organizing your belongings in bins makes it easy for unpacking as well as having ‘storage’ ready to go into storage rather than having to unpack and then put into storage.”
Rothbauer-Wanish is a freelance writer fromm Colfax and owner of Feather Communications.
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HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 13
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Do you have a will?A will enables you to specify who you want to inherit your property and other assets.
Do you have healthcare Documents in place?Healthcare documents spell out your wishes for health care if you become unable to make medical decisions for yourself. They also authorize a person to make decisions on your behalf if that should prove necessary.
Do you have financial Documents in place?Certain financial documents can outline your financial wishes. If you become unable to make decisions for yourself, these financial documents can be structured to empower a person to make decisions on your behalf.
have you fileD beneficiary forms?In some cases, naming a beneficiary for bank accounts and retirement plans makes these accounts “payable on death” to your beneficiaries.
Do you have the right amount anD type of life insurance?When was the last time you assessed your life insurance coverage?
have you taken steps to manage your feDeral estate tax?If you and your spouse have more than $5.43 million in assets ( for 2015), you may want to consider taking steps to manage federal estate tax, which will be due at the second spouse’s death.
have you createD a letter of instruction?A letter of instruction is a non-legal document that outlines your wishes.
will your heirs be able to locate your critical Documents?Your heirs will need access to the specific documents you have created to manage your estate.
Contact Chris Hasenberg to review your Estate plan today!
Estate Management Checklist
Article provided by Chris Hasenberg of Investment Management Associates, Inc., Wealth Advisor, Series 7 Securities Registered, Series 66 Registered Investment Advisor, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Remember, the information in this article is not intended as tax or legal advice. And it may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.
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spacesoutdoor
14 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
New
for
2016garden
trends
The air is warm, the sun is bright
and gardeners can’t wait to get outdoors and get dirty. While
the urge seems to be the same every
spring, the face of gardening is changing along
with our busy lives. Fewer people are gardening in the
traditional way, but people are finding new and creative ways to keep on
growing.
By Nancy Skelley
“Small-space” gardening continues to increase. People are gardening in urban settings or in smaller yards where there is not room for a traditional garden plot. Pots of various sizes have always been a “go to” for small space gardeners. Container gardening is easy, portable, and can provide the gardener with both flowers and vegetables. One current and very attractive trend is the combining of flowers and vegetables or herbs in one container. This makes for a planter which is both showy and functional.
Pallet gardening takes the container gardening trend to new heights. Pallets allow for gardening in a vertical space, which can almost become a piece of garden art. A pallet can be mounted on a wall or a stand can be created which allows it to stand vertical. It is then lined with sturdy landscape fabric and filled with a light, soil less potting mix. Holes are cut in the fabric, between the pallet slats to allow for planting and, voila, you have a pallet garden. Both flowers and vegetables can easily be grown in this unique vertical gardening space.
Pallets aren’t just for growing in the garden and outdoor space; pallets are being made into all types of outdoor furniture and accessories from outdoor seating to wine holders and outdoor bars. It’s a great low cost way to recycle. With a little imagination and some skill with tools and a saw, it seems that pallets can be made into almost anything. I’ve seen this trend recently at the Minneapolis Home and Garden show where pallets made from “designer” woods were made into any number of outdoor accessories.
Earth Boxes and other container systems have been around for quite a while, but they remain quite popular among small space gardeners for their ability to allow gardeners to produce a large amount of vegetables in such a small space. Earth Box gardeners can produce a plot size yield of tomatoes for example, in just a couple feet of space. My Earth Box has helped me produce over 100 tomatoes from just two plants. The initial investment on these boxes is about $75 to $90, but they can be reused year after year. They are also easily portable, giving gardeners even more options.
Straw bale gardening has caught on big time over the last couple years as well. In this method of gardening, a straw bale serves as your gardening space. Plants are planted directly into the bale which is previously “conditioned” to provide a nutrient-rich growing environment for plants. Information on this method is available online, but local garden centers are also offering growing seminars to promote this interesting new method of gardening. Check out your favorite local garden center for more information.
HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 15
spacesoutdoor
Cont. on page 17
No discussion on new gardening trends would be complete without talking about miniature gardening. Whether it involves fairy gardens, or just gardens with miniature plants and accessories, this trend has definitely taken the gardening world by storm over the last few years. It allows the gardener to let his or her imagination run wild and is also a great way to introduce children to the garden by allowing them to create their own miniature world with plants. Miniature gardens can be grown indoors or out, in almost any type of container, and using a wide variety of plants, from miniature evergreens to annuals and even vegetables.
Miniature gardens lend themselves particularly well to another new trend in gardening, repurposing. Repurposing involves using old household or other items in a new and creative way. This could be as simple and basic as using an old tea kettle or even an old boot as a planter, repurposing a hub cap or a length of garden hose into a decorative wreath for the yard or garden, or even creating a whimsical fairy garden in an old rotting stump in the yard. The possibilities with this trend are endless, and it’s a great way to keep old items with some life left in them out of the landfill! If you’re having trouble with ideas, Pinterest is a rich source of ideas for this trend.
In the realm of traditional gardening, bee friendly gardening is a growing and very important trend. With the undeniable decline of bee populations in many areas, gardeners are becoming increasingly aware of the need for creating friendly, pollinator-filled habitats for bees. Flowers, fruits and vegetables can be found in these beautiful gardens and organizations all over the United States can help with planning a bee friendly or pollinator garden. Locally, Partnerships for Pollinators through the UW-Eau Claire can help provide information for gardeners wanting to participate in this growing gardening trend.
In landscape gardening, people are still going crazy for hydrangeas! These beautiful garden shrubs range in color from white to pink to blue to purple and many shades in between. They come in an array of different sizes to fit most any garden or landscape, and most are easy to grow. Bloomstruck, a Bailey Nurseries introduction is a unique purple hydrangea that also offers the gardener great fall color, with rich burgundy red leaves. This showy plant does require a bit of maintenance, regular fertilization, good winter
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16 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
Learn These Secrets ofEstate Preservation
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Chippewa Valley Museum1204 E. Half Moon Drive
Eau Claire, WI 54703
800663 4-9-16
Article submitted by Eau Claire Lawn Equipment.
801660 4-9-16
Home and acreage owners are faced with more choices than ever when it comes to mower type, size, features and price. Among landscape maintenance professionals, it’s safe to say the zero-turn riding mower has become the tool of choice to consistently and quickly achieve a beautiful after-cut appearance. However, when it comes to homeowners, are zero-turn mowers still the preferred choice?
Productivity: A faster mower = more free timeLandscape pros choose zero-turn mowers because they deliver the finished appearance their clients expect, and they do it more quickly than other mower types. And while it may be true that homeowners don’t have to make money with their mower, it’s a good idea to consider what their time is worth.
Maneuverability: Mow more; trim lessRaw productivity is one thing, but when you add in landscaping, lawn furniture and kids’ areas, the maneuverability of a mower quickly becomes an important component of real-time productivity. As a result, maneuverability is one big reason more landscape pros choose zero-turn riders. A zero-turn rider isn’t just able to mow more quickly in a straight line, it can also mow closer to landscaping with greater control thanks to its ability to turn-on-a-dime. You’ll finish mowing quicker and reduce the time spent completing trim work – a true win-win situation.
Quality of cut: A professional’s calling cardLandscape professionals earn their living delivering a consistently superior cut quality for their customers. That’s why Exmark has worked hard to engineer the best cutting decks on the market.
durability: The definition of commercial-gradeOne thing we’ve learned in our more than 30 years of building mowers for landscape professionals is that stamped steel decks just don’t cut it when it comes to the demands of mowing sun up to sun down. That’s why every zero-turn mower we build comes standard with a heavy-duty fabricated steel cutting deck.
Fabricated decks are stiffer, stronger and more durable than stamped decks, even reinforced models. And with features like no-maintenance sealed bearing spindles and hex-style blade drivers, the Exmark durability advantage extends to the components as well as the cutting deck itself.
bottoM line: Choose the tools the pros useWhen compared head-to-head, it’s clear a zero-turn riding mower offers the most compelling combination of productivity, maneuverability and quality of cut available today. When it comes to durability, Exmark scores big with true commercial-duty frames, cutting decks, drive systems and engines designed to stand the test of time.
Bottom line: an Exmark zero-turn riding mower very well could be the last mower you need to buy.
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For Applications, Contact the Housing Authority of the
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Tours Available Call for an Appointment
(715) 839-8154Handicapped Accessible Apartments Available
802061 4-9-16
ZERO-TURN VS LAWN TRACTOR
See full article and comparison at, https://www.exmark.com/Exmark-Advantage/Zero-Turn-vs-Lawn-Tractor.
HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 17
spacesoutdoor
Cont. on page 18
Cont. from page 15
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The Potting Shed, the area’s boutique garden center, next to Charter Communications!802480 4-9-16
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Advertisementmulching and a bit of patience, but is definitely worth the trouble. It seems to outperform its predecessors, Endless Summer and Twist and Shout, putting on a great flowering show all summer long!
For those who don’t want to put in that much work, but still want the flower show, Limelight or Little Lime hydrangea produce abundant greenish blooms all summer and require much less maintenance. Vanilla Strawberry hydrangea should be on everyone’s favorite plant list. This lovely hydrangea grows to about 6 feet and is covered from July til frost with large panicle shaped blooms that start out white and blush to an outstanding strawberry pink. It is remarkably easy to grow and is definitely a great addition to any landscape or garden.
In regard to container plants, low maintenance is the trend. For indoors, air plants are very popular. You can’t get much easier than that! Tillandsia, or Air Plants need little other than light and occasional misting to grow and can be grown in interesting wall mounted, hanging or traditional containers. These plants are great for even those with the brownest of thumbs.
Succulents are also continuing to gain popularity. Whether they are grown in containers or in the ground, indoors or out, succulents are easy to grow and very popular. Many are even great for miniature gardens. The varieties and colors of these plants are virtually endless and go far beyond cactus. They do require a high light situation, but are xeriscape plants, requiring little water. Many varieties, such as Midwest-friendly sedums, boast beautiful blooms, and others are just plain interesting plants.
spacesoutdoor
18 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
Cont. from page 17
13941 98th Ave.Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
715.723.8001albrechtsnursery.com
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The Pantone colors of the year are Rose Quartz and Serenity, a warm rosy tone and a cool tranquil blue. As usual, these tones are also finding their way into the garden, in the form of pottery, accessories and even plants. When creating an outdoor living area, using these tones as accent colors really can help create a relaxing space. The rose and blue colors are fairly easy to come by in plants, begonias, petunias, roses and the ever popular hydrangea can provide the rose tones, while ageratum, salvia, catmint and delphinium can provide those soft, tranquil blues. What this does for the gardener is create and extremely beautiful and soothing color palette for the garden, mixing both annuals and perennials in combinations that can provide color all summer long.
Whatever your gardening dreams may be this year, the new trends are interesting and fun and could guide you to your best year of gardening ever!
Skelley is a Master Gardner and freelance writer from Eau Claire.
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NewtowN PiPPiN – Year 1720. A seedling is born in the orchard of Gershom Moore in the area of Broadway and Forty Fifth St., Newtown, New York, which is now Elmhurst, Queens. Benjamin Franklin had received a shipment of Newtown Pippin while he was in London in 1759. George Washington grew this apple at Mount Vernon, Thomas Jefferson at Monticello, grew these. Queen Victoria was eighteen years old when she had her first Newtown.
esoPus sPitzeNburg – Esopus, New York 1700s. Thomas Jefferson had a taste of this apple and he assumed that it was destined to become a long part of his Monticello Orchard. Not eaten fresh, but after it mellows a month or two, the flavor is exquisite.
summer rambo – France, early in the 1500s. 1535 it was recorded in Rambures, France by the Somme River, and has since been a favorite. The name had been changed from Summer Rambour, and is one of a dozen Rambour varieties. David Morrell, author, 1968, was trying to name the main character of First Blood, his novel about a Vietnam Vet. When his wife came home with apples from the local farm stand, he had one of those apples, loved it, and had asked what it was. Rambo, she had said. And so it was.
smokehouse – Recorded in 1837, near Mill Creek, Pennsylvania, on the farm of William Gibbons. One of the top flavored apples right off the trees. The original tree grew right next to William’s smokehouse, hence the name.
Discovering classic & Heirloom apples
Growing apples typically requires you to have a
certain respect for one of my favorite sayings, “What you learn when you know it all, makes
all the difference.” While growing apples is one thing, discovering the
oldest varieties takes us on a journey that is unknown
to most of us. Don Albrecht here from Albrecht’s
Nursery & Orchard in Chippewa Falls. I find and collect varieties of apples
that have been flying under today’s radar. While there
is not room here for all the good stuff, I will rattle off just a few of the varieties
that we sell, and share a few highlights of said varieties.
While I could go on and on, I will leave you with just one more. It is the year 1865, when a Quebecois woodsman named William Springer, was traveling by wagon along with his family from Quebec to Wisconsin. He was hoping to make a new life on a new farm. It is said that he had stopped along the shores of Lake Erie and bought some apples. It is also stated that these were Alexander apples, which come from Russia. The Springers continued on to that farm, along the Wolf River, where he had planted some seeds from those apples. One of these seedling trees became well known for the apple with immense size. In 1875 this apple came to be known as Wisconsin’s apple, the Wolf River.
HomeFront spring 2016 leader- Telegram 19
802160 4-9-16
Article provided by Albrecht’s Nursery & Orchard.
nativegarden
20 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
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HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 21
nativegarden
For Gayle Kleppe and Beau Wold, restoring their wooded 20 acres south of Eau Claire to native plants has been a labor of love.
A journey more than 25 years in the making, they’ve poured their heart and soul into their endeavor – and dug into their pocketbooks to finance it – but they say their investment has paid dividends by way of butterflies, wildlife and bountiful beauty all year long.
“I think nature’s given us back what we have invested in time and money,” said Kleppe, 66, who’s worked hand-in-hand on the project with her husband of 27 years, Beau Wold.
Idea was plantedWhen the couple bought their land, which they’ve named Prairie Oak Haven, 15 acres of it was wooded and five acres was open. The previous owner tried to grow a horse pasture on the open land, “but with as much sand as what was there, nothing grew but sand burs,” said Wold, 61.
They debated what to plant on their empty open land.
“We could’ve planted trees, but that didn’t make a lot of sense because we already had a lot of trees,” Wold said. “We wanted to figure out something to do with it that would be a little different.”
They called on Wold’s college roommate, Paul Dye, who works for The Nature Conservancy, for advice. During a visit, Dye noticed a small area in back that resembled a prairie remnant.
“Because some of the indicators were there, he encouraged us to start burning that and see what came out of it,” Wold said, explaining that controlled burns bring many ecological benefits, including managing weeds and releasing nutrients important to future plant growth. “We did that and saw lots of things that really started to flower that had
been sitting there vegetatively but hadn’t really been producing flowers. That got us thinking about taking the rest of the land and planting it prairie.”
They’ve been working on their land since 1988, incorporating sand prairie, woodland edge and wetland restoration projects. Throughout the process, they’ve collected seeds and grown their own transplants, many years 1,000 to 5,000 plants a year.
Others take nOteSusan Frame, a horticulture instructor at Chippewa Valley Technical College, has brought her sustainable land use class to the couple’s land multiple times for field trips. Prairie planting is among the topics covered in the course, and seeing one firsthand helps drive home points learned in the classroom.
“We’re able to go over the basic components of what a prairie is, where they grow, why you want to grow them, that type of thing,” Frame said. “One of the things we promote as a technical college is the hands-on training and learning that we get to do. Unless you actually get out there, you don’t have any concept of what’s involved in the process and what it actually looks like.”
Frame said the tours made an impression on the students — and herself.
“Their passion for their prairie is very impressive,” she said,
adding how she personally appreciates getting to see how the land evolves year after year. “It’s impressive what they’ve done and how they’ve maintained it.”
Nina Logan, who lives in Kleppe and Wold’s neighborhood and is an active Master Gardener, agrees. The couple has shared their experience with native plants at various Master Garden events, and members of the group have also come out to see their work.
“They’re so knowledgeable,” said Logan, who has a 1/8-acre patch of prairie on her own land. “There’s no question they can’t answer. If they can’t answer it, they’ll find the answer for you — both of them. It’s a teamwork between the two of them.”
GOInG natIve explaInedSo, what’s a prairie — and what exactly are native plants?
By definition, a prairie is a plain of grassy land without many trees. Native plants, in turn, are plants indigenous to an area.
“Usually the way people refer to it is the vegetation that was here before the white man came — the pre-settlement vegetation,” Wold said.
But knowing what types of plants were originally on their land and deciding what to plant was no small feat. It required considerable research into what was native to the area — and then
Cont. on page 23
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22 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
801183 4-9-16
789921 11-14-15
BeginningBooks are just the
Gardening @ Your LibraryArticle & book photo submitted by Indianhead Federated Library System.
Also, two local public libraries have found a new way to serve local gardening communities. The Menomonie Public Library began in March this year, and L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library in Eau Claire brings back for a second year in
April their free seed libraries. “Check out” seeds, plant, grow, enjoy, and “return” harvested seeds to the library for others to plant, grow, and enjoy. Examples of the seeds available are arugula, herbs, beans, lettuce, and sunflowers. For additional information on the types of seeds available, look to the library’s website or ask at
the information desk of the library.
Start your season with a visit to your public library.
Gardening is good for your health and the environment. From novice to master gardener,
if you have questions about planting spring flowers, growing summer vegetables, pruning
trees, building a trellis, starting a container garden, and/or landscaping, your local public
library has the resources to help.
Not sure where to start, ask a librarian to help you dig up the
gardening resources at your local public library so you may:
•Growherbsforaddingfreshnessto
yourdinnermenu.
•Createabutterfly-friendlycorneroftheyard.
•Exploretheworldof
soilwithyourkids.
•Rakeinthevegetablesforsummersaladsandfallcanning.
•Cultivatefriendsat
acommunitygarden
project.
•Useatroweltostay
inshape.
•Addcolortoyouroutdoorspace.
•Designanoasisof
relaxationinyourbackyard.
•Holdagardeningprograminthelibrary’smeetingroomandshareyour
passion.
HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 23
nativegarden
EAU CLAIRE INSULATION LLCServing the Chippewa Valley for over 40 Years!
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city of Eau claire Housing DivisionHousing 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 chris at (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. 802059
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“Our land supports lots & lots of animals, insects,
mammals, reptiles and amphibians.”
Above photo: Gayle Kleppe and Beau Wold have spent over two decades restoring their land south of
Eau Claire to native prairie grasses. They’ve titled thier prairie habitat, Prairie Oak Haven.
Page 20&21: Last season’s prairie grasses still stand in front of the 3/4 acre pond, still frozen and snow-covered, on Kleppe and Wold’s land.
Staff photo by Marisa Wojcik
nativegarden
24 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
Cont. from page 23
Free Estimate 715.832.7282Website www.GoAsher.com
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fitting the plants to soil type and water conditions.
“We did a lot of reading,” said Kleppe, a former Master Gardener. “We also started working with a nursery in Winona, Minnesota, and they were a great resource for us.”
Given their land’s sandy soil, they started looking for plants growing naturally in sandy soils elsewhere, such as ditches, along power lines, beside railroad tracks and in cemeteries.
“After a while you kind of develop an eye,” Wold said. “You know
what species indicate that you’re seeing an original prairie remnant.”
AdvAntAges AbundAntKleppe and Wold noted a number of benefits to using native plants in their landscaping. One of the biggest for Kleppe is that, once their plants were established, they’ve provided an ideal “creature” habitat. The couple videotaped their land as they were prepping it for their first planting. Years later, they videotaped the plants again.
“One thing that was just shocking to us was the ‘music’ of the insects,” Kleppe said. “Our land supports lots and lots of animals, insects, mammals, reptiles and amphibians.”
Wold appreciates the plants’ extensive root systems – many go down 12 feet or more – which enhances their access to water and nutrients. As such, the plants don’t require watering or weeding.
“They don’t have to be coddled,” he said. “Once they’re established in the right place, they take care of themselves.”
Both Kleppe and Wold adore the variety of plants that now flourish on their land. Something different flowers about every two weeks.
“When you nudge nature in the right direction, it really reinforces for you that you’re doing the right
Contributed photo.Beau Wold built this 10-foot-by-14-foot
greenhouse that he and and his wife, Gayle Kleppe, use to grow vegetable and herb
bedding plants and also start some native plants, grasses and forbs.
HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 25
nativegarden
Cont. on page 26
O P E N I N G F R I D A Y | A P R I L 1 5 , 2 0 1 6
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UPCOMING CLASSES:April 16th10 am Fairy Garden seminar1 pm Gardening for bees, birds and butterfl ies
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thing by the way it responds,” Wold said, noting that the more he’s dug into the project, the more impressed he’s been.
“There are a lot of really interesting and beautiful native plants growing in this area. We haven’t felt the need to grow something that is not native,” he said. “There are so many beautiful native plants that provide so much enjoyment the whole year, including winter. More and more I’ve felt less and less reason to plant anything else.”
Kleppe said she wouldn’t have it any other way.
“We want to be land stewards,” she said. “We only have 20 acres, but we want to leave it better than when we received it, or improve it from its condition when we purchased it. It’s our responsibility.”
Schmidt is a freelance writer based in Tilden.Contributed photo.
Periodic burning helps invigorate native plants while warding off invasive non-natives.
nativegarden
26 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
Cont. on page 28
Cont. from page 25
Staff photos by Marisa Wojcik
Purple Coneflower
(Echinacea purpurea)
Goldenrod(Solidago)
Ironweed(Vernonia
fasciculata)
Beau Wold holds seed pods for wild indigo (Baptista) at his home south of Eau Claire. Wold and Kleppe collect seeds from plants and grasses from the previous season in order to plant more in the springtime.
Wild Indigo Seed Pod(Baptista)
Gayle Kleppe and Beau Wold cite the following benefits to using native plants on their land:
• Increased biodiversity
• Habitat for birds, butterflies, insects, amphibians, reptiles and small mammals
• Less long-term maintenance – easy to grow through adaptations to local conditions, seldom need for watering or mulching and no continuous mowing
• Superior erosion control
• No pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers
• Storm water filtration
• Groundwater recharge
• Greater resistance to weeds
• Increased soil organic matter
Why Native
Plants?
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HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 27
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Phone: (715) 644-3555 • Cell: (715) 613-3539Fax: (715) 644-3556
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801177 4-9-16Article & photos provided by Sparkle Wash of Eau Claire.
Those first few warm, snow-less spring days each year bring homeowners out into the yard, to imagine the summer to come, full of picnics, yard games, gardens and lawn care.
Suddenly the outside of the house is in full view and the home place looks a bit dimmer than we remember.
For the first time in months we notice the accumulation of dirt, bugs and soils that sit on our homes, discoloring siding, roofing materials and patios. It’s only natural to wonder what that junk is and how it got there.
The doorways have spider webs hanging from the porch lights. What are those brown spots on the siding? There is green stuff on the shady sides of the house. The deck is slippery underfoot when it gets wet. The sidewalk is black and when we look at the roof from the street we see black streaks, even some moss. There are dots that look like tar on the siding above the mulched shrubs, and the gutters are all black.
So what is that stuff? How do we get rid of it?
Let’s start with the entry doors and lights. Bugs like lights, spiders like bugs, birds like spiders, so where there are night lights there will be bugs and their droppings, spiders and their webs and droppings as well as bird droppings. Some of this crud can be rinsed away with a garden hose, a mop and soapy water or a scrub brush and elbow grease.
The dirt on the siding might rinse off but the more there is the less likely the average homeowner will have the time or inclination to remove it all. The green stuff is mold and mildew that is feeding on the dirt and lawn fertilizer
lying on the surface of the siding. Those black spots that feel like
tar may be artillery fungus spores, the “seeds” of
a fungus that lives and grows in mulch. We may think these are the same thing as
shotgun spores but there is a difference. The
shotgun type grow in fresh horse manure. Most likely this is not the problem you are facing.
The black soiling on the downspouts, gutters and
metal fascia is a combination of dirt and mildew. In extreme
cases some lichens or moss
may be present here as well. The roof streaks are much the same, mostly dirt that has been captured by the aggregate on the asphalt shingles that allows mildews and other biological growth to thrive.
Sidewalks may turn green or black due to dirt and mildew growth which will also make the wood on your deck slippery when wet.
All these contaminants can be removed but doing so safely and without damaging any of the home’s surfaces requires training, proper equipment and the ability to match the cleaning agents, application and removal methods with the materials being cleaned. What appears to be a massive and complicated procedure for a “Do It Yourselfer” is often not that difficult for a professional, whose expertise ensures quality work at an affordable price. That professional can also draw the homeowner’s attention to the most likely places for the dirt to appear again as well as provide tips on how to spot clean small areas in the future that can help keep the siding, decks and sidewalks looking better longer.
In most cases a cleaning professional will be able to give the homeowner a free, itemized estimate stating the specific scope of the work as well as pricing information. The price quoted should not be exceeded as long as there are no changes or requested additional services.
Realtors and property managers know that appearances are important when selling a home or filling rental units. Curb appeal is unlike every other first impression because it is noticeable over and over, to occupants, owners and visitors. Yet more importantly, proper cleaning of a home’s exterior is also a vital component of ongoing, proper maintenance of any property. Longer life and lasting good looks are a direct result of the care given to preserve the integrity of the materials that protect your home, family and belongings. Consult an experienced contractor with a proven record of quality when you want superior results on your investment. Ask someone who knows. Call Sparkle Wash of Eau Claire at 715-832-4270 for a Free Estimate today.
WHAT I
S THAT S
TUFF O
N M
Y H
OUSE
?
nativegarden
28 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
Cont. on page 30
Cont. from page 26
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Dotted Horsemint
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Staff photos by Marisa Wojcik
Gayle Kleppe runs her fingers through switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) in their native short grass prairie.
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HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 29
Pollen season is here.BREATHE EASY.
Financing Available.
802017 4-9-16
Also available:
Hurlburt Heating & Plumbing, Inc.N6705 State Hwy 25, Durand, Wi 54736
www.HurlburtHP.com • 715-283-4422
With temperatures rising and energy costs soaring, there are a variety of steps you can take to cut the expenses of cooling your home.
“Cooling and heating equipment use more energy than any other appliance. This inevitably shows up every month on the energy bill, but it’s important to remember that energy costs can be controlled,” said Greg Mericle, of Hurlburt Heating & Plumbing.
Annual MaintenanceOne step to control energy costs is to schedule annual maintenance checks to make sure your unit is running efficiently. Most cooling systems require very little owner maintenance. However, operating dirty cooling equipment can result in an unnecessary loss of efficiency and can damage the furnace. You play a vital role in making sure your cooling system continues to operate at peak performance.
High Efficiency Cooling EquipmentIf you’re in the market for a new cooling unit, consider purchasing a high efficiency model. They can help reduce your energy costs as well as conserve our natural resources. When selecting an air conditioner or heat pump, pay close attention to the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). This is a measure of cooling efficiency for air conditioners. The higher the SEER, the higher the savings. The minimum SEER rating is 13.
ZoningZoning can drastically lower your heating costs. With zoning, you no longer have to pay to heat or cool areas of your home that are rarely used. You won’t have to heat or cool the whole house just to make one room comfortable. Zoning divides your home into separate comfort areas, which are heated or cooled based on your needs, saving you money and making your occupied areas more comfortable.
Programmable ThermostatsProgrammable or setback thermostats can make a big difference in energy consumption. These thermostats deliver maximum comfort, efficiency, and energy savings. Programmable thermostats are used to achieve the temperatures you want throughout your home. For example, if you’re going to be away, you can set the whole house at an energy-saving temperature to avoid heating or cooling an empty house.
To find out more about reducing your cooling costs, call Hurlburt Heating & Plumbing at 715-283-4422. Hurlburt Heating & Plumbing has been providing service in the Chippewa Valley area since 1959.
Don’t Throw Away Money!
Article & photos submitted by Hurlburt Heating & Plumbing.802018 4-9-16
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nativegarden
30 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
Cont. from page 28
Tips for oThersInterested in using native plants in your own landscaping? Here are a few of Gayle Kleppe and Beau Wold’s top tips:
• Identifyyoursoiltypeandyourmoisture,andfigureoutwhatcangrow.“Youhavetofittheplantstothesite.Otherwiseyou’regoingtoendupwithsomethingthatyou’regoingtohavetowaterallthetime,”Woldsaid.
• Startoutwithasmallpatchorexperimentwitharaingardengrowingatadownspoutorotherareawherethere’smoremoisturethanusual.Certainplantsgrowwellthere.“Thesecanbeniceideasforpeoplethathaveacitylotorsmalleryard,”Kleppesaid.
• Ifyourgoalistocreatealow-maintenancearea,plantacombinationofgrassesandflowers.Grasseshelpholduptheflowers,andplantingthewholecommunitykeepsweedsandnon-nativespeciesout.
• Itdoesn’tgivethemachancetocomeinandgetestablished,”Woldsaid.
• Realizethatitdoesn’ttakemanynativeplantstoattractinsects,butterflies,birdsandtreefrogsandthat“therearewaystoincorporatenativeplantsinanysizeyardorproperty,”accordingtoKleppe.
Connect with the CoupleBoth Gayle Kleppe and Beau Wold enjoy sharing what they’ve learned with others and are open to fielding questions and discussing their project with others. Contact them at [email protected].
For More InformationFollow the link below to view informative PowerPoint slides from a February 2012 presentation the couple offered at the master gardening winter seminar.https://goo.gl/VonDXY
Con
trib
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pho
tos.
HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 31
focuslocal
Bird of the Valley
By Steve Betchkal
The state of Wisconsin has all kinds of official “symbols.” Wonder
if you could name them all?
There’s the badger (animal), and the sugar maple (tree), of course. The honey bee is the state insect.
The state dance is the polka. Antigo silt loam is the state
soil. There’s even a state muffin: cranberry.
So why not play along at the local level? The official root crop of
the Chippewa Valley could be the horseradish. The tree could be
the white pine. The official social symbol? How about the Downtown
Eau Claire Farmers Market?
But what would be the best choice for official bird of the Chippewa Valley? I’ll come up with a list of finalists, and you make the call!
focuslocal
32 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
Cont. on page 36
Cont. from page 31
Pileated woodpeckerI, for one, would be proud to have this bird serve. It fits the bill (again, pun intended) in many ways: it’s fond of big timber and wild country and can be found in town; it’s big and showy; it’s a bird that Milwaukee or Madison can’t claim (its range is more northwesterly); and it’s one of those birds that’s never predictable and always a pleasant (if not downright startling) surprise.
While there is no such thing as a bird that’s
exclusive to the Chippewa Valley, what we’re
shooting for here I think, is ratified and distinctive — something that
defines us as a region separate from others around Wisconsin. We’ll start building our list
by subtraction.
Wild turkeys are an established part of the western Wisconsin landscape these days,
but game birds won’t work. It’s bad form to shoot and eat the official bird. Sorry, Benjamin
Franklin!
If we went by “Mr. Most Ubiquitous” the obvious candidates would be the red-winged
blackbird, European starling, American robin, common crow or black-capped chickadee.
But red-wings, starlings and crows are a bit too vulgar and far too common anywhere
in Wisconsin. Robins are already the avian representative for three entire states, and
chickadees and eastern bluebirds are cute, but again, known to every corner of the state.
The Sandhill crane and bald eagle might be good choices. They’re big, popular marquee
birds — species that draw the eye and the emotions — but again the eagle is already
spoken for, and the crane mainly passes through during migration.
I’d love to nominate the purple martin as official bird, but it’s not by any means
restricted to the west, and its population is too ratified in Eau Claire and Chippewa Counties.
Same with a few prairie species that bleed east into our area — lark and clay-colored
sparrows.
The photogenic yellow-throated vireo would be a possibility, but you can find it as easily in
La Crosse, Shawano or Madison as here. The eastern towhee is a fixture throughout Eau
Claire, Dunn, and Chippewa County’s sandy oak and pine barrens, and it’s an attractive
bird with black head and mantle, red eye, rusty flanks and white grace notes, but again not
quite selective enough.
No, I think that the voting comes down to six local candidates who are just scarce enough,
and charismatic enough to describe us.
Mourning warblerThis shrub-hugging bird nests throughout much of northern Wisconsin, but it’s tricky to find. Not many people have actually seen it because of its secretive habits, but it’s a regular resident of Beaver Creek Reserve, where it’s ringing song is basic to the soundscape. When people visit here from Ohio or California, I make it a point to treat them to a glimpse of this gray-headed bird with bright yellow underparts.
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HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 33
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Article & photos provided by Perma Glaze of Western, WI, LLC
Over the years, trends in countertop surfaces have ranged from colored laminates to concrete-based material with coloring applied, plus the many different stone finishes. Today new technology has brought us a product and process to include “Imitation Stone Finishes” with Stone-Flecks.
Countertop refinishing in this instance is done on site with no tear-outs and minimal down time for the customer. Gary Eslinger, owner of Perma Glaze of Western, WI, has seen the Stone-Flecks product gain popularity here in the Chippewa Valley. “As people learn more about the advantages of this product and process, they use the Stone-Flecks to renovate kitchens and baths at minimal costs and inconvenience.”
Stone-Flecks forms a tough, durable finish that provides superior protection for many years. And with multiple piece countertops with seams, the Stone-Flecks finish is designed to cover those seams and produce a one-piece top. With over 20 different eco-friendly colors, you can make any countertop come alive.
Homeowners, apartment managers and hotel operators who want the “natural” look and beauty of stone finishes have carefully compared the performance of Stone-Flecks to expensive granite and stone. “Dollars and durability are the most asked questions,” states Eslinger. “Refinishing is generally half the price of replacing and as for durability, it’s a non-porous finish that is highly resistant to acids, stains and damage. Stone-Flecks retains its natural luster and is simply cleaned with soap and water. Plus, it requires no annual cleaning and sealing.”
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34 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
At seventeen to hear the pretty girl or handsome guy tell us they had fallen for you made the heart go pitter pat.
It was wonderful.
At seventy to hear that your soulmate or aging parent has fallen is far from
wonderful. It’s downright scary.
We have known someone who took a serious fall and never quite recovered. It’s common knowledge that falls in the home are one of the greatest causes of injury for all ages. It is especially true as the years creep up on us. Bad knees, bad hips, bad balance, weight gain or loss of strength – any or all can put us at risk. There is no greater “Danger Zone” than the bathroom as this is where many serious falls take place.
There are relatively simple affordable solutions that contribute to a safer bathing experience. You may fit into the aging category or deal with a disability or simply want things safer for people of any age. It may be adding properly secured grab bars would suffice. More likely, converting a bathtub to a walk-in shower, barrier free shower or a walk-in tub would be the best solution. The Board Store team of factory trained technicians and licensed plumbers can convert your tub to one of the attractive and much safer solutions in about a day. New hardware, properly installed grab bars and always at an affordable price.
We understand your needs. I understand seniors because “I is one” and so are many of my friends. I understand because I have two disabled sons. Our sales staff has met with hundreds of homeowners and they understand. Furthermore, we have two Certified Aging in Place specialists to assist when needed.
Come to our showroom to see for yourself complete displays of the products we offer. Visit with our showroom staff to arrange for a “house call” and free estimate or just call at 608.782.8877. If you know someone in need of a safer bath or have parents who could benefit from an upgrade, do this senior a favor, pass the word – The Board Store does bathrooms.
Falling For You
Article & walk-in tub photo submitted by Miles Wilkins, Owner, The Board Store Home Improvements, Inc.
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HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 35
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Article provided by Klinger Farm Market.
Our store and gift center is open year round. Always available: fresh produce, homegrown potatoes and a large selection of candy, jams & jellies, dressings & salsas, Klinger’s honey and local maple syrup.
With a large selection of garden décor, miniature gardening accessories, glazed pottery, wind chimes, houseplants, and plenty more in our garden center you are sure to find what you need. Also, gift certificates for Klinger Farm Market make a great gift for anyone.
During the spring and summer months our 17 greenhouses are full of annuals, perennials, shrubs and fruit & shade trees. Hanging baskets are one of our specialties and they are a simple way to make your home look beautiful! We have thousands to choose from!
Summertime also means our ever-popular sweet corn is available! Also available when in season: handpicked tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, peas, beans, cauliflower, beets, cabbage, squash, and much more.
In the fall, families can enjoy our annual corn maze and family fun area. With a corn maze, petting zoo, jungle gym, pumpkin bowling, corn box, duck races and other fun & games everyone is sure to have a great time! We also carry all of your fall decorating needs. Pumpkins, gourds, fall mums, asters, straw bales & corn shocks are all available.
During the winter months our January birdseed sale is the perfect time to stock up on all of your bird and wildlife feed. We have a large variety to choose from including black oil sunflower, nyjer thistle, specialty blends, shell corn and much more.
Try our CSA Program
Klinger Farm Market offers a CSA program during harvest season. No time to have a garden? Let us do the work for you! Members prepay for a portion of the season’s harvest and receive weekly shares of fresh homegrown & locally grown produce. It is a great way for you and your family to try new things and learn healthy eating habits. Call and ask us about it today!
Klinger Farm Market is open year round!
focuslocal
36 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
Red-breasted nuthatch
People know all about this bird because it frequents feeders. It’s petite and bluebird cute — with a slaty blue black, a rusty belly and a black line through the eye. Cousin to the white-breasted nuthatch, which is more common all over Wisconsin, the red-breasted only nests in the “conifer belt” of Wisconsin, so Milwaukee, Madison and Green Bay don’t get to share it with us.
Pine warbler Like the nuthatch, this rather obscure and certainly uncommon little 5-inch bird prefers tall conifers, so it only nests in the north of the state in some of our most pristine spaces, places like Beaver Creek, Irvine Park, Lowes Creek and Carson Park. It’s truly a bird with close ties to our white pine heritage.
It’s a pretty bird, yellow below, greenish above, with white wing bars. Its song is a soft trill that is a “theme song” in the pine woods. And it spends our winters along the Gulf Coast, or in Cuba, Haiti, Puerto Rico or the Dominican Republic, so it travels a long way to get here.
Tufted titmouse While this cousin of the chickadee is rather common throughout the southeastern United States, its range “peters” out by northern Illinois (little side joke on the bird’s “peter peter peter!” song there in case you missed it). For some unexplained reason, however, the bird has established a stronghold in the Chippewa Valley, so we get to enjoy it while the rest of the state doesn’t.
The bird has got undeniable character; it’s pugnacious and energetic. And it’s adorable — with those black eyes and perky crest. That always helps with vote-getting. On any given morning, it’s one of the three birds I hear first — in addition to American robin and northern cardinal.
Cont. from page 32
Red-shouldered hawk
Some people might be hesitant to choose a bird of prey as official symbol, but this snake-and-frog eating, forest-loving hawk loves our big rivers. It’s a handsome hawk, with — as the name implies — rusty red on the shoulders, and it’s somewhat secretive and not often identified. It’s threatened in the state, too, so it would be a good bird to “take under our wing.”
HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram 37
focuslocal
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So, shall we make it official? We’ve provided you with the opportunity to vote for your favorite, the bird that will serve as the pseudo-official Poster Bird for our region.
Once the votes are in, meet me at the black sunflower feeder for our annual
(insert your bird of choice here) Festival. I’ll bring the cranberry and
horseradish muffins.
Betchkal is a freelance writer from Eau Claire.
Vote for the Bird of the Valley,
official ballot on page
38.
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Figure out where you want to have your storage. Is it a basement, closet, garage, etc? First clean that area out and decide what kind of a storage/categorizing system you would like to create. Once that is ready, go room by room and sort. Start with three piles: a ‘Yes’ pile, a ‘Maybe’ pile and a ‘No/Donate’ pile. This allows you to quickly sort through where your attachment is with the item. A good theory is asking yourself if you’ve used it in the last six months, or if you plan to use it in the next six months. If the answer is no then it might be time to get it in the No/Donate pile. If you hem and haw over it put it in the Maybe pile. Don’t spend too long going back and forth. If you’re torn put it in the Maybe pile right away. Box or bag up the NO/Donate pile and haul it out to a vehicle to drop it off. Go through the Maybe pile again, you’ll be surprised how much easier it becomes to make another No/Donate pile. Continue this process through as many closets, rooms, etc. you want to go through. Then organize and store in the designated place for the home or room depending on how large a scale you want to tackle.
Keep things accessible. Have a vacuum and/or mop on each level of a home for easy access. Same with cleaning supplies. Keep exactly what you need under each kitchen/bathroom sink including cleaning rags and garbage bag rolls so that when you’re ready to clean/empty trash it’s handy. Keep a container under the sink for recyclables. Stagger which rooms you clean. Life is busy. Sometimes it’s easier to just clean one room at a time while using it, rather than doing a complete over-haul of your home on a day off or busy weeknight.
Eliminate as many harsh chemical products as possible. There are many natural/eco-friendly products out there. You can buy many over the counter or you can find many great recipes online/Pinterest to make your own economically.
Make a plan. Without a plan it’s hard to figure out where to start. The job becomes overwhelming and then our fight or flight urges come in and we just avoid the task altogether.
And if this is still difficult then I recommend calling AMK, all the way! We are here to help where folks leave off. It’s our job to make others’ lives easier so they can spend it doing other things they enjoy.
We offer a custom tailored cleaning plan specific to each client and their needs. It’s a flexible plan that can be changed and altered to fit their budget and needs. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for people through time saving cleaning management.
AMK Cleaning Services provides: references, employees go through an extensive background check, and also sign privacy disclosures for added discretion. AMK Cleaning is FULLY INSURED and BONDED. Contact us today 715.830.1156 or [email protected] to set up your FREE consultation to discuss how we can start helping you.
Cleaning Tips
Article submitted by AMK Cleaning Services.
801653 4-9-16
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38 HomeFront Spring 2016 Leader- Telegram
Fill out your ballot (one vote for your favorite bird) and all contact
information. All ballots received by Tuesday,
April 19, will be entered into a random drawing
for a $50 gift card to Sammy’s Pizza in Eau
Claire. Final voting results will be published
in the Aug. 13 Home Front magazine.
Mail your ballots to:
Leader-TelegramAttn: Dan Lyksett701 S. Farwell St.
Eau Claire, WI 54701
Bird of the Valley
Official ballot for the “Unofficial”
Name
Address
Phone #
Pileated Woodpecker Mourning Warbler Pine Warbler
Red-shouldered Hawk Red-Breasted Nuthatch Tufted Titmouse
Check the box next to the bird of your choice.
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