Home In Style - Feb. 28, 2013

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T H E B RYA N - CO L L EG E STAT I O N E AG L E

The Woman’s Club will host its

45TH ANNUAL HOUSE & GARDEN TOUR

UPCOMING ARTS EVENTS PIECING TOGETHER

ARTWORKCollege Station woman uses

her quilting and embroidering skills to create pieces for

customers and teach classes.

TEENS DEVELOPING SKILLSthrough A.R.T. for Life program

EDIBLE LANDSCAPINGnot your traditional

vegetable garden

Rustic chaRmCouple’s home in Bryan suitedfor entertaining fellow Aggies

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4 Home iN Style SPRING 2013

6 EdiblE landscaping not your traditional vegetable garden.

8 The Woman’s Club will host its 45th annual housE & gardEn tour as a fundraiser for its local community outreach activities.

10 discovEr thE ways to fireproof a home.

18 upcoming arts EvEnts in the Brazos Valley.

20 piEcing togEthEr artwork College Station woman uses her quilting and embroidering skills to create pieces for customers and teach classes.

22 dEsigning a laundry room

23 doEs timE of yEar

affect roofing jobs?

24 tEEns dEvEloping skills through A.R.T. for Life program.

25 pros and cons of opEn floor plans

26 safEty mEasurEs can help reduce bathroom injuries.

27 modErnizE your bathroom with a frameless glass shower enclosure.

28 how to clEan dirty windows

29 who is rEsponsiblE for repairs during a home sale?

30 using bold paint colors

Contents12 Couple’s home in Bryan suitedfor entertaining fellow Aggies

Rustic chaRm

The Theatre Company, Located in the Tejas Center,

behind Joann’s FabricsTickets Can Be Purchased Online At Our Website,

WWW.THEATRECOMPANY.COMFunding for these organizations is provided by hotel taxes from the cities of College Station and Bryan as distributed through the ACBV.

March 1-3 March 8-10

t he Arts Council of Brazos Valley recently started a new program in which young artists will receive mentoring from local

professional artists. The Artist in Residency Program

starts in mid-May and ends on Aug. 15. Artists will receive mentoring from local professional artists to expand and enrich artists’ creativity, and at the end of their residency, artists will display their work in a gallery exhibition.

Each artist in residence will have access to Arts Center facilities and the Creative Space in the Federal Building in Downtown Bryan to create their works of art. There will

be three mentorship sessions on: how to install an exhibit; how to conduct sales and manage financial affairs; and continuing education to provide information from experienced artists in the area. During their residency, each artist will receive a two-bedroom apartment, donated by Twin City Properties.

The Arts Council of Brazos Valley is accepting applications for the Artist in Residency Program through March 8 at 5 p.m. All current students enrolled in a visual arts program or recent graduates are encouraged to apply.

The application is available at acbv.org under “Programs.” For more

information, visit the Arts Center, 2275 Dartmouth in College Station, call 979-696-ARTS(2787) or email [email protected].

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edible landscaPingnoT your TrAdiTionAl VegeTABle gArden By CHARlA ANtHoNy

SPeCIAl to the eAGle

the eAGle www.tHeeAgle.Com 7

M ention growing food in urban areas and what comes to mind is a hidden spot tucked away somewhere in the backyard, away from trees and shrubs.

With more people wanting to grow their own food, the concept of edible landscapes has once again become commonplace.

wHAt iS it?Edible landscaping is the use of food-producing

plants within a residential landscape. It is intermingling herbs, vegetables, fruit and nut trees with shrubs, groundcovers and flowers.

gettiNg StARteD• Location – Most vegetables and fruit need six to

eight hours of sun daily to produce well.• Space – While herbs do not require a lot of

space, fruit trees and berry bushes do. Look for dwarf and smaller varieties.

• Management – Food crops require care at specific stages to remain productive. They also need careful watering, good soil and fertilizing at the right time. Learn when to harvest, for optimal return on your investment.

HeRBS foR flAvoRIf you want to cook like a gourmet chef, fresh herbs

can give you the edge. And, even an inexperienced gardener can grow them successfully. Make perennial herbs a permanent addition to existing landscape plantings. Seeds of annual herbs may be direct sown into small spaces between shrubs. Most herbs are ideal for container gardening.

Cool season herbs (from about October through April)

Chives grow in small mounds and look lovely in an outdoor container or a perennial garden. They have a mild flavor and may be used fresh in salads and dips. The flowers are edible. Garlic chives have flat leaves and fragrant white flowers.

Dill and cilantro are easily grown annuals. Sow seeds in early spring between shrubs, in groundcover beds or in containers.

The curly varieties of parsley make a nice border for shrub and flower beds. Or grow Italian flat-leaf parsley, which has a sweeter flavor and is excellent for cooking.

Warm season herbs (from about May through September)

Basil is one of the easiest annual herbs to grow. Plant seeds or set out plants in the spring after the last frost. Harvest leaves frequently to prevent blooming, which reduces flavor.

Oregano, a hardy perennial, may be used in place of a small shrub and it performs well in containers. It grows to 2 feet tall, with small rounded leaves and pale pink flowers. Unlike most herbs, the leaves are best used dried.

Grow rosemary to add textural interest to landscapes and harvest it at any time. A semi-evergreen shrub in our USDA Zone 8b, it comes in many forms from bushes 4 feet tall to low-growing ground covers. It grows best in dry sunny areas.

vegetABleSTomatoes, one of the most popular edibles, can

be grown in containers. Use it as you would a pot of flowers on your patio. Select varieties that are smaller with the shortest days to harvest. Most cherry type tomato varieties are good choices, as well as the smaller slicing varieties. Or if you have a trellis, plant a tomato or two.

Greens - Instead of pansies, use lettuce and spinach as a pretty, edible cool season border for any landscape bed. Tuck swiss chard between shrubs.

Peppers – Peppers make striking additions to any planting. Grow red, yellow, green and orange bell peppers in beds of flowers or groundcover. Some jalapeno varieties are sized just right for containers.

fRuitS Blackberries - The cultivated varieties of

blackberries are well-adapted to most areas of Texas and are fairly easy to grow in urban settings. Best planted in February, choose a sunny site with well draining, prepared soil.

Strawberries - In Texas, strawberries are best transplanted in the fall, generally between mid-September and late October. A small, low growing plant, they are ideal to tuck into existing landscape plantings. If temperatures drop, protect them from cold damage by covering plants with boxes or frost cloth. Harvest berries in the spring. Strawberry plants seldom survive our high summer temperatures.

Figs - Figs are large shrub-like trees, generally reaching 20 feet wide and tall, so they may not be ideal for smaller sites. Fruit specialists recommend

figs to be planted as dormant rooted cuttings in late winter or early spring. They prefer well-drained soils, with full sun exposure on the south or east side of a structure for protection from cold winter temperatures.

Peaches (small shade tree) - Peach trees require almost perfect drainage and specific chill hours. In the Brazos Valley that translates to 450 to 650 hundred hours annually. Select a site that is sunny most of the day. Peach trees require pruning, training and fruit thinning to maximize production. Plant bare root trees in the winter, while fully dormant, preferably before March 1.

Other fruits worthy of cultivation and easy to use as a landscape ornamental in our area are pecan, satsuma (a mandarin orange), Asian pear, plum, pomegranate and jujube. To find information for growing specific fruits and vegetables, visit aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu.

Charla Anthony is the horticulture program assistant at Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, Brazos County, 2619 Texas 21 W., Bryan, Texas 77803. Her e-mail address is [email protected].

Photos by Charla Anthony. (ToP) Cauliflower

and (BoTToM) swiss Chard can be grown as

part of edible landscaping.

By CHARlA ANtHoNySPeCIAl to the eAGle

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the woman’s Club will host its 45th Annual House & garden touron wednesday, April 10 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

as a fundraiser for its local community outreach activities.the three homes selected for the tour this year are:

tHe StRiBliNg Home5306 JuPiteR HillSCollege StAtioN

tHe SuRovik Home3231 wAlNut CReek CouRt

BRyAN

tHe wooD Home3201 wAlNut CReek CouRt

BRyAN

45th Annual House and Garden Tour

The theme will be “distinctive homes with a different palette.” Angela Smith, chairwoman of publicity for the event, said the

theme is “carried out in the three uniquely elegant houses, with each of the delightful homes revealing the personalities and interests of the owners.”

StRiBliNg HomeThe Stribling home was built by Clay

Kolby in 2010 for Linda and Danny Stribling, and was decorated by the couple’s youngest son, Michael Stribling. Michael is a Houston designer who was featured in 2008 in the HGTV show, “Design Star.”

Smith said the home features “bold elegance,” but it was built so that guests,

including grandkids, can relax and enjoy their time there.

“As you enter the home, you will find yourself in a dramatic, yet family-friendly living area,” Smith said. “High ceilings, lots of glass and even a touch of the wild will immediately get your attention.”

The floor plan is open, and Michael has used splashes of color creatively in every room, Smith said. Unusual pieces of furniture in the home include a coffee table made out of a teak root.

The kitchen is the center of the Stribling family’s life. It features a large island, countertops made of leathered granite with a cracked edge and cabinets made of Honduran mahogany.

The Striblings sell real estate for a living, so they wanted to come home to something different, Smith said.

SuRovik HomeThe Surovik home was built by Marriott

in 2008. It was originally built as a weekend home for owner, Bob Surovik, who lives in Abilene, but his son, Wade Surovik now lives in the home.

The home was designed and decorated mostly by Wade, whose love of antiques and auctions is shown throughout the home. It features “understated elegance,” Smith said. Visitors feel welcome in the home, which – with openness between the kitchen and living area – is great for entertaining. The home hosts several out-of-town


45th Annual House and Garden Tour Aggies during Texas A&M University home football game weekends.

“As you approach the house, you’ll see the amazing, very tall front door,” Smith said. “Upon entering the home, you’ll be impressed by the dramatic staircase and iron banister, designed by Wade.”

Bob, a past chairman of the Texas A&M Foundation Board of Trustees, has filled the home’s study with Aggie memorabilia, including a chair from the foundation’s boardroom. At his request, the study, living room and master bedroom all have views of the golf course.

One of the home’s highlights is the collection of Majolica in the kitchen, and in the living room, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves are prominent.

wooD HomeDown the street from the Surovik home

is the Wood home, which belongs to

Woman’s Club member Sissy Wood and her husband, Pat Wood.

The home was built in 2006 by Darrell Bairrington, and has “intimate elegance,” Smith said. She said visitors will want to look at the enclosed garden area and the beautiful front door before entering the home.

When guests enter the home, they will see a formal dining room to the right, featuring a 19th century chandelier from Louisiana that formerly belonged to Pat’s parents. He remembers it arriving at his parents’ home in a barrel in 1944.

The home features several other special items that the family has acquired, including Limoges pill boxes and a captain’s desk that came from a Dutch ship, Smith said. Sissy’s “pride and joy” is a Louis XV chair that she played in as a child.

Other items visitors will notice include

two slipper chairs in the master bathroom that the couple purchased in England. Slipper chairs are low seats built so women could sit to put on their shoes.

Separate from the home is a casita, which is especially enjoyed by the couple’s grandchildren. It includes a Murphy bed that is pulled out of the wall.

tiCketSTickets for the house tour are $15. They

can be purchased the day of the event at each house in the tour or from members of The Woman’s Club. Luncheon tickets are $15, and must be purchased by April 3. To buy house tour or luncheon tickets, contact club director Betty Davis at 979-822-5019 or email [email protected]. Luncheon tickets can also be obtained through Sandra Petty; call her at 979-775-2449.

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A house fire can engulf and destroy a home in a matter of minutes. Even with the fast- acting response of firefighters,

a home that has caught fire may be irreparably damaged by flames, soot and water. Fire is no laughing matter, and it behooves homeowners to take precautions to fireproof their homes as much as possible.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that although death and injuries caused by residential fires have declined gradually during the past several decades, fire-related deaths continue to pose a significant health hazard. In 2010, it is estimated that someone died in a fire every 169 minutes in the United States alone. A person was injured by fire every 30 minutes, according to the National Fire Protection Association, Fire Analysis and Research Division. The Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs estimates an average of 375 people die every year from fires in Canada, mostly from

smoke inhalation.Most fires are largely preventable. The

following are a few fireproofing measures for safety-conscious homeowners.

•Install smoke detectors and check the batteries regularly. Smoke inhalation causes many fire-related deaths. A smoke detector should be installed outside of every bedroom and on every level of the house. Don’t install a smoke detector near a window, door or forced-air register, where drafts could interfere with the detector’s operation. Be sure to routinely check that every smoke detector is working properly.

•Have a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location. Ideally, there should be a fire extinguisher in every room of the home, but at the least keep one wherever fire is used regularly, such as a kitchen or by a fireplace. Ensure the fire extinguisher is charged and that you understand how to operate it.

•Remove combustible materials from around the house. Do not allow old clothing, rags, newspapers or cardboard boxes to accumulate around the house.

Discard newspapers and magazines as quickly as possible and be careful to avoid storing anything too close to heaters, furnaces or electrical equipment.

•Adhere to the recommended wattage in lamps and lighting fixtures. Do not exceed the recommended bulb wattage for lights around the house. There may be overheating or shorting that can lead to fire.

•Look for fireproof interior décor items. Nowadays, carpeting and furniture can be coated with fireproof chemicals. The added investment may be worth it in the long run.

•Do not leave candles unattended. Many people like the look and aroma that candles provide. Candles also provide emergency illumination in the event of a power outage. Candles can be easily knocked over and start a fire. In fact, candles are one of the top causes of house fires. Never leave a candle unattended, even for a short amount of time. And certainly never go to sleep without extinguishing a candle.

•Keep the chimney clean. Inspect the

discoveR the waysto fireproof a home

metRo CReAtiveCoNNeCtIoN


discoveR the waysto fireproof a home

chimney flue regularly and have it cleaned to prevent an abundance of residual burnt material from accumulating. This creosote can catch fire itself.

•Use a fire-resistant roofing material. A roof should be made from metal, clay or asphalt tiles. Trim any overhanging branches or vegetation to reduce the

amount of combustible material nearby.•Have a fire-safe wall behind wood

heaters. A brick wall or another fireproof material should be used on any walls that house a wood- or gas-burning appliance for added safety.

•Verify electrical safety. Extension cords and power strips should be kept to

a minimum, and the outlets should not be overloaded. Replace fuses properly and don’t be afraid to call a certified electrician to verify you are correctly set up.

By making a few tweaks in and around the house, a homeowner can decrease the likelihood of a fire.

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W ith earth tones and a quiet neighborhood, Ricky and Terri Jackson’s home in Bryan is the perfect place for the Aggie couple and their

dog, Sully to relax, but it was also clearly designed for entertaining their many guests.

Kirby Fleming, an architect out of Gause, designed the home. Ellis Custom Homes finished building it in July, when the Jacksons – both 1981 Texas A&M University graduates - moved in. Important aspects when creating plans for the home, the couple said, was an open layout and plenty of room for their guests, including children, nieces and nephews who come from out of town to see home A&M football games.

The outside of the home fits in with the peaceful Traditions subdivision, with its front made mostly of tan and brown stones, along with dark gold paint on each side and wooden window shutters.

Once visitors come through the beautiful arched front door, they will notice a hanging light fixture on the ceiling, a round, brown and tan rug and to the right, a small dark brown table that holds dark brown vases and a photo of the Jackson couple. To the left, the first room in the home is an office with a large, built-in desk with floor-to-ceiling shelves filled with photos and Texas A&M University memorabilia. One of the most noticeable things in the room is a cowhide rug.

An oPen houseContinuing past the office, as visitors walk into

the living room, they will notice how open the home is and how much light comes in - perhaps the home’s most striking features. Ricky said the openness is exactly what he and Terri wanted when creating floor plans.

“We wanted the openness, thus the high ceilings and the open room,” he said about the room that contains the living area, kitchen and dining area.

He said the big room – with its cathedral ceiling -- and the patio are his favorite parts of the house, and also where he and guests spend most of their time.

When entering the living area, on the wall to the left is a stone column that contains a cozy fireplace. Over the fireplace is a beautiful mesquite mantle and a large television. To both sides of the fireplace are matching large, dark brown shelves with arched tops. A large brown and tan square rug helps tie together the living room, along with a dark brown leather sofa that holds maroonish throw pillows, two tan and maroonish chairs and




two end tables, each holding a lamp. Overhead are two hanging lights.

Glazed, gold-colored walls in the living room help set it apart as visitors go to the right and see a stone wall and an arched entrance into a bar area. Under the entrance is a sparkly black and brown granite countertop. On a bar room wall is a built-in liquor cabinet with glass doors and a wine rack. From the ceiling hangs a glass rack, that – with brightly colored lights – provides a pop of color and a party atmosphere. Also in the room is a watercolor painting that shows the scene of tailgating next to Kyle Field -- a family tradition -- with several tents, including the Jacksons’ tent.

Past the bar area is the kitchen. The first thing when walking into the kitchen is a large island with marble counters; on the side closest to the living area is a higher level next to three bar stools. On the other is a unique, dark brown porcelain farm sink. Two dishwashers built into the side of the island facing the kitchen and a wine rack built into one end lend toward the functionality of the kitchen, while a fixture with three lights hanging over the island help make it attractive and well-lit.

Along two walls of the kitchen, large cream white cabinets – including a stove hood -- create a vintage, homey feel, while a mostly orangish-red painted glass pane built into one of the cabinet doors provides a splash of color. The mostly cream white tile with small, dark brown squares and marble counters continue the neutral-colored kitchen. A microwave drawer, a coffee maker that’s built into the cabinet and two spice rack drawers on each side of the oven make for an uncluttered countertop.

The kitchen continues into the dining area, with a, mesh metal covered light fixture hanging over a dark wooden table. Dining chairs with

Photos by Chandler Arden (ToP row. lefT To righT) ricky and Terry Jackson’s master bedroom features big windows and soothing, bluish-green paint. A downstairs bedroom is simply decorated, but colorful. The main focus of the master bathroom is an antique tub with a chandelier hanging over it. Behind the tub is an open shower. (Middle row, lefT To righT) The utility room has lots of cabinets and laundry-folding space, along with a shower to bathe the dog. The colorful dining area overlooks the backyard, and features a light fixture with a mesh metal cover. (BoTToM row, lefT To righT) rope lights make the stairs easy to see in the dark. The Jacksons and their guests spend a lot of time in the outdoor patio and kitchen area. A bar near the kitchen is great for entertaining.


brown seats and backs with reddish, white, brown, green and cream stripes provide color, along with window treatments with some of the same colors. An art niche containing a farm scene painting over a dark brown cabinet completes the room, and diners can enjoy a view of the backyard through the large window.

Adding to the openness are sliding glass doors that connect the living room to the outdoor patio. When they’re open, it feels as if the two areas are one big room. The patio has two cream and dark brown outdoor couches that face a television (that can be hidden with two wooden doors) over a fireplace. An outdoor kitchen area with a couple of bar chairs makes the home even more fit for entertaining guests. With a roof and ceiling fans over the patio, the outdoor area can be

used for much of the year.It’s especially nice during A&M home

football game weekends, the couple said, when they typically have about 17 guests who come from out of town to watch the games.

“We have a lot of company, especially on football game weekends, so we just live out here,” Ricky said.

Being greenBesides large glass doors that let in lots of

light and that can be left open during nice weather, spray foam insulation helps keep utility bills down. Ricky said during the summer, there is only a 10-degree difference between the attic and the house. Though the insulation creates an uptick in price, Ricky said he feels the energy savings over several years makes it worth the cost. Also more costly are LED lights, he said, but they last 40 times as

long as regular light bulbs, use 75 percent less energy and don’t put off heat that has to be counteracted with air-conditioning.

An iPad attached to a magnetic charger in the bar room is used for what Ricky calls the home’s “smart system.” When away from home, the Jacksons can use the iPad to monitor heating or cooling in the home. They can see what the temperature in the attic is, and if it’s getting cold, the heat can be turned up to prevent their state-of-the-art fire sprinkler system from freezing. The temperature can also be adjusted soon before entering the home to make it comfortable.

More Behind the bar area is a guest half bathroom,

with dark brown textured paint, a dark brown-framed mirror and a pretty light brown bowl sink. To the left is a hallway with a light green


cabinet, where items such as coats and bags can be hung. Past that is a laundry room, with a stackable washer and dryer, lots of cabinets, a folding table, a sink and the most eye-catching part of the room – a dog shower area for Sully, complete with paw prints on the tile.

Around the corner from the kitchen is the master bedroom with an attached master bath. The rounded bedroom features a soothing bluish-green textured paint and three large windows. The color is carried out in multi-colored striped drapes and flowers on the bedding. The bedding and drapes also have tan, cream white and dark brown colors that tie the room in with the rest of the house.

When walking in to the attached master bathroom, an antique tub with feet with a chandelier hanging over it first grab’s a person’s attention. Behind the tub is an open shower with cream and tan tile. The bathroom also has his-and-hers sinks, greenish cabinets and marble countertops. An attached large closet gives the Jacksons lots of space to organize their clothing and accessories.

The home also has two downstairs guest rooms, to the left of the living room as a person walks in the front door. One room’s bed has a bedspread with moose, leaves and bears and colors including dark brown, tan, cream white and blue. Next to the bedroom is a bathroom with tan floors and light brownish-red cabinets with a marble countertop. Above the countertop, tile with earth-toned, multi-colored squares surrounds the mirror and adds color. The tile is continued in the shower.

Near the bathroom is another simply decorated bedroom, with a reddish and white bedspread on the bed.

A set of stairs – lit in the dark by dimmable LED rope lights, an idea of the interior decorator who helped with part of the house – leads upstairs to a room with two sets of

double bunk beds with dark brown and white comforters. In addition to four beds, the room is ready for guests, with a microwave, a sink, a small fridge and an attached outdoor balcony.

Next to the bedroom is a bathroom with a sink and marble countertop and cream and tan tiled shower enclosed with a glass door. Another bedroom to the left of the bathroom features a yellow bedspread with touches of green and a reddish color in the leaves pattern.

The home is already beautiful – with earth tones and simple decorations lending toward an understated elegant feel – but Ricky said he and Terri are continually working to improve

it, including searching for just the right piece of art for the entry hallway.

Photos by Chandler Arden (lefT PAge, CloCkwise froM uPPer lefT) The open kitchen’s main features are rustic, cream white cabinets and a two-level island with a dark brown farm sink. The entryway has an arched door and neutral-colored décor. An upstairs bedroom features a yellow bedspread and a touch of Aggie spirit. A downstairs bathroom’s brownish-red cabinets and gold shower curtain tie in with the rest of the house. An office is the first room in the front part of the house. A cowhide rug and Aggie memorabilia show hints of the homeowners’ personalities. with big sliding glass doors, the living area opens up to the outdoor patio area. (ABoVe, froM lefT To righT) A guest room features an animal print bedspread. An upstairs bedroom is made for guests, with two sets of double bunk beds, a small refrigerator, a microwave and a sink. A balcony is also attached to the room.

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W ith spring arriving in the Brazos Valley, there’s no better time to explore all that the arts have to offer. Don’t know where to start? Visit acbv.org/events,

the perfect place to begin your adventure!The local museums are continually changing,

bringing fresh and fascinating exhibits to the area. You can see it all when you plan a “museum weekend”! Visit seven area museums and galleries with the Museum Pass; for one low price, you receive admission to the Arts Council of Brazos Valley, Children’s Museum of the Brazos Valley, George Bush Presidential Library & Museum, Forsyth Galleries, Brazos Valley African American Museum, Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History and Sam Houston Sanders Corps of Cadets Center. Museum Passes may be purchased online through VisitAggieland.com or by calling 1-888-878-6082

The Arts Council of Brazos Valley is proud to present Community Masterpieces that started Feb. 22 and goes through April 13! For the third year, we’ve collected masterworks held in private and public collections in our community for one incredible exhibition. This year, in addition to viewing paintings and sculpture from world-renowned artists such as Tarkay and Ranney, visitors will be immersed in the musical and literary arts. The Arts Center is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free, but members enjoy exclusive discounts on Artisans’ Corner gift shop purchases!

Step back in time as the Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History presents LEGACY- The Astin Family – Culture and Couture in Early 20th Century Bryan. One of the preeminent families of the region, the rise of the Astin Family is told through historical clothing and jewelry as well as period artwork, glass and graphic design. The Museum of Natural History, located at the Brazos Center at 3232 Briarcrest Drive in Bryan, is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, students and

children and free for children under the age of 3. To learn more about the museum, visit BrazosValleyMuseum.org

The Forsyth Galleries, located in the Memorial Student Center at Texas A&M, is joining MSC OPAS in celebrating 40 years of bringing the best in performing arts to the Brazos Valley. Enjoy this visual journey chronicling 40 years of performances at the gallery through April 15. Meanwhile, OPAS is continuing an exciting anniversary season with Hooray for Hollywood on March 1 and 2. Hooray for Hollywood celebrates the popular movie musicals of the past 50 years from Singing in the Rain to Grease! Visit opas.tamu.edu for ticket information.

Fans of the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra will love An Afternoon of Magic on March 3. Featuring soprano Kaylie Kahlich in her debut performance with the BVSO, this concert has something for everyone! The Symphony is also debuting the Premiere Market on March 22 and 23 at the Brazos Center. Searching for the perfect gift? Over 50 merchants will be exhibiting at the Premiere

Market with jewelry, pottery, designer fashion, unique home decor and more. The best part of the event? All proceeds go toward the educational and cultural programs of the BVSO! To find out more about An Afternoon of Magic and the Premiere Market visit bvso.org.

Friends of Chamber Music have brought world-class musicians to the Brazos Valley for over 15 years, offering free classical music concerts to the public. On March 7, Ars Lyrica Houston will perform Baroque music on

(fAr righT) There are more than 50 pieces of public art in the Brazos Valley, including this bench, “Pathways to Adventure,” located in downtown Bryan. The Arts Council of Brazos Valley can help people plan a scavenger hunt to explore public art in the Brazos Valley. To get started, visit the The Arts Center, 2275 darthmouth st. in College station. (BoTToM lefT, Photo by wayne smith) Visitors view a piece of artwork during the 2012 Community Masterpieces exhibition. This year’s event started on feb. 22 and will continue through April 13.

uPcoming aRts events

in the Brazos Valley By RACHel loweNSteiNSPeCIAl to the eAGle


period instruments. To find out more about this vocal and instrumental ensemble, visit CommunityChamberConcerts.org.

For those of us who can’t get enough musical theater, The Theatre Company has you covered with two Broadway classics: Sunset Boulevard and The King and I. From March 1 to 10, you’ll enjoy the Tony Award-winning Sunset Boulevard, the romantic and tragic story of silent-movie star Norma Desmond and Hollywood screenwriter Joe Gillis. The King and I, hitting the Theatre Company stage from April 19 through May 5, will delight audiences with the tale of an unlikely friendship, highlighted by Rodgers & Hammerstein hits such as Shall We Dance and Getting to Know You. Performance and ticket information can be found at TheatreCompany.com.

Hot Property has all the elements of a classic comedy: mistaken identities, a sting operation and endless twists and turns. The hi-jinks will take place at Navasota Theatre Alliance started on Feb. 21 and will run through March 10. For show times visit NavasotaTheatreAlliance.com.

The Academy for the Visual and Performing Arts at Texas A&M will bring River North Dance Chicago to town on Tuesday, March 26

for a special performance. This dance group brings together technical precision with Latin-influenced modern dance. Stay up-to-date with the incredible performers and events hosted by AVPA by visiting AcademyArts.tamu.edu.

If the weather is too beautiful to spend your day sitting inside, why not plan a scavenger hunt? There are over 50 pieces of public art in the Brazos Valley – sculptures, murals, art benches and more! Stop by the Arts Center and we’ll provide you with everything you need to get started.

There’s always something great happening in the arts in the Brazos Valley. Performing arts, visual arts, literary arts – all of these organizations work diligently to provide quality events and programs to make the Brazos Valley a vibrant place to live. Need help planning your next adventure in the arts? Visit acbv.org, call (979) 696-2787, or email [email protected]. We’ve got some great ideas!

Rachel Lowenstein is the visitor services coordinator at the Arts Council of Brazos Valley.

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N orma Reel, who works part time in her College Station quilt studio, has come a long way since a high school home economics teacher told her

she might not be cut out for the class.“I was using a sewing machine at a desk in

class, and I accidentally sewed my skirt into my sewing project,” Reel said, recalling the class she took as a sophomore at Powhattan High School – a school with about 40 students in Powhattan, Kansas. “So when I stood up, the whole sewing machine took a big crash -- as it was attached to my skirt. The teacher said I didn’t have to return if I didn’t want.”

However, in late 1999, Reel said she saw a quilt in her sister-in-law’s house that she admired, and became interested in learning how to quilt. Reel, who lived in Michigan, bought a $79 sewing machine and took a quilting class.

“I just absolutely fell in love with it and how easy it was to do,” she said.

She soon upgraded to a $7,000 machine that could be used for sewing and embroidering, which she later traded in for a more sophisticated machine. She started doing embroidery work for other people, and then quilting. She made her first quilt in 2000 and the next year, did her first longarm quilting – the process of using a big longarm sewing machine to sew together the three layers of a quilt: a top, batting and backing.

Word-of-mouth spread, and she created a business card. She went from doing work for her mother, to doing work for neighbors, coworkers at the dental office where she worked full time and others in the community. As her side business grew, it included being an on-demand quilter for a historical society and doing embroidery work for a fragrance company.

Reel and her husband eventually decided to move to College Station to get away from the cold weather and to be near one of their four daughters, who was expecting a child. They looked for a house with a room that could fit

College station woman uses her quilting and embroidering skills to create pieces for customers and teach classes.

By SHAuNA lewiSthe eAGlePiecing togetheR aRtwoRk

her big longarm sewing machine, and after they found one, moved from Michigan to College Station in the summer of 2011.

Reel’S StuDioIn August 2011, Reel opened her business,

Norma’s Embroidery & Quilt Studio, at 310 Stoney Hills Court in College Station, and soon after, joined the Brazos Bluebonnet Quilt Guild. She also started teaching quilting classes that fall at Lone Star Quiltworks, 4301A South Texas Ave. in Bryan.

Reel works full time as an administrative assistant at a dental office in Bryan. Although she has more than 20 years working in dental office administration, she said her dream is to eventually rely solely on income from her quilt studio.

“I absolutely love it,” she said. “It’s my peace of mind.”

Reel said she keeps busy with quilting -- working around her full-time job schedule -- and she still gets some work from Michigan customers. She was recently working on seven quilts at a time for customers. She allows about three months to complete most quilts.

“I get up early; I go to bed late,” she said. “I do what it takes to get the job done. I love what I’m doing, so it doesn’t feel like a job.”

As a quilter, Reel said the biggest amount of work she gets is from people who bring in a quilt top that they’ve pieced together so she can use her longarm sewing machine to sew it together with the batting and backing to form a quilt. Since quilts are so bulky and heavy, people often don’t like using a regular sewing machine to finish a quilt.

Reel also gets several requests to make quilts from scratch. Her longarm machine is computerized, so she can put in patterns for it to sew, do her own freestyle pattern or combine freestyle with a computerized pattern. She also does a lot of embroidery work, such as custom labels sewed into quilts, flowers, dates and names.

Popular items she makes are T-shirt quilts, made from a person’s T-shirts, and memorial quilts from a person’s loved one’s clothing after the loved one has died. Also popular are photo memory quilts --made by transferring a photo onto material and putting it into the quilt pattern -- baby quilts and pillows and Aggie quilts.

One Michigan woman sent her late father’s Hawaiian shirts to Reel so she could make a quilt out of them.

“It’s a nice momentum if someone has passed away to do something with their clothes,” she said, adding that customers keep such pieces for themselves or give them as gifts.

She said the most unique quilt she has crafted was one made out of baby onesies as a person’s keepsake, using the child’s bedding for the sashing and binding around the edges.

Other creative things she has done with quilting include baby quilts with a baby’s name and birth date, time and weight embroidered on it or pillows with wedding invitations and announcements. People often hang quilts on their wall as artwork, she said, such as the quilt hanging on her own wall; it has her and her husband’s names and the words, “established by” followed by their wedding date.

It’s addicting, she said, to be able to create such pieces of art, as students of her beginning quilting classes at Lone Start Quiltworks have found. She is working to create a new class, at the request of her students.

Reel is also active with the Brazos Bluebonnet Quilt Guild and is the guild’s president elect for next year. The guild does several community projects, such as making quilts for Hospice patients.

For more information on Reel and classes she teaches, visit www.facebook.com/pages/Normas-Embroidery-Quilt-Studio/400990049922486 and www.lonestarquiltworks.com/classes.htm. For more information on the Brazos Bluebonnet Quilt Guild, visit www.bbqg.org.


Photos contributed by norma reel. (ToP row)

norma reel makes several custom quilted items,

such as this Aggie baby quilt (lefT), photo quilt

(Middle) and baby pillow with the baby’s birth

statistics. (lefT, CloCkwise) reel owns norma’s

embroidery & Quilt studio in College station, and

teaches quilting classes at lone star Quiltworks in

Bryan. Cole ritter holds a blanket that reel made

using onesies he wore as a baby. reel said she gets

several requests for Aggie quilts such as this one.

reel made this quilt out of hawaiian shirts. The

shirts belonged to the late father of a customer.


W hen purchasing a home, buyers often look at the kitchen space and how many bedrooms there are, while largely ignoring other rooms, including the

laundry room. Oftentimes, the washer and dryer are relegated to a dark corner of the basement or garage, and homeowners simply accept their laundry lot.

More and more manufacturers now produce washers and dryers that are both functional and aesthetically appealing. As a result, homeowners and renters need not feel they have to hide laundry rooms like they did in the past. Having the laundry nearby the family action — and paying attention to laundry room design — can make the work of keeping clothes tidy that much easier.

Many designers would agree that you need not sacrifice style for function in a laundry room. As with any other area of the house, impart design elements into the room and make it a room in which you want to spend time.

• First and foremost, select appliances that offer the features you need and want. Also, find appliances that fit the space you have. Front-loading appliances have become the latest must-have, but some units may be too big or expensive for your space. Those with a limited area for laundry can invest in a stackable set, in which the washer and dryer are combined into

one vertical unit. For those who want to add a pop of color, select among the variety of colored washers and dryers that are turning up in store showrooms. You’re no longer limited to white, black and beige.

• Consider cabinetry in your laundry space. Cabinets and drawers are not just for the kitchen. They can hide cleaning products, detergent, dryer sheets and so much more. Fill drawers with stain-removal sticks and items to mend clothes that may be missing a button or have a small hole that needs tending.

• A laundry area also can be much more than just a place to wash and fold clothes. Many people like to turn this spot into a multipurpose zone. By including some shelving and a refrigerator in the laundry room, you can create a food-storage pantry. A large countertop normally used to fold clothes can also double as a gift-wrapping station. Think about merging a laundry room with a craft room where sewing or scrapbooking can take place.

• Remember to leave room for the soiled clothing. Raising hamper bins off of the floor to be suspended from a rod above the washer frees up valuable floor space. Otherwise, keep the hamper behind a curtain or tucked into a cabinet to ensure the laundry room always looks neat, even when you haven’t yet gotten to the newest pile of dirty clothes.

• Don’t be afraid of adding color and artwork to the laundry space. In fact, embrace it. Here’s an out-of-the-way area of the home where you can explore your creativity and have a little fun. Try an eye-opening color, such as apple green or bright yellow to add a sunny disposition to the room.

• You don’t have to spend a fortune on a laundry room re-do. Shop in salvage stores or antique shops for custom pieces to add character to the space. You can probably find cabinetry or shelving for a fraction of the cost of new items, and these older items may add more character to the space.

• Save space by installing a counter just above the dryer so you will have a place to fold and stack clothing.

• The bulk of dirty clothes will be generated in the bedrooms and bathroom of the house. But who wants to carry clothes down to a laundry area on a lower level? See if you can tuck a laundry room into an upstairs closet or nook to make doing laundry more practical.

Although a laundry room is often an afterthought, taking time to organize and plan the space can make it both functional and inviting.

designing a laundry roommetRo CReAtive

CoNNeCtIoN


T here comes a time in many homeowners’ lives when they’re faced with the reality that a roof replacement is necessary. A roof can last between

15 and 30 years, and a person who owns an older home may find the quality has expired on the current roof. Is there a particular time of year that is better for having a roof installed? It depends on different factors, including the availability of a roofing contractor.

According to the site, The Average Cost of Things, courtesy of the Home Buying Institute, across the country one can expect to spend $18,000 on average to replace a roof with asphalt shingles. Use of other materials, like tile or metal, will cost more than this. In general, those living in big cities tend to pay more than those in rural areas. Because a roof replacement is expensive, it is something that some homeowners prefer to put off until it is absolutely necessary. Others are interested in finding the best rate around and hiring reliable roofers for the job.

It’s important to note that there really is no season where roof replacements are off-limits. Most roofers can do the job effectively unless the temperature is below freezing or if there is significant rain in the forecast. In fact, planning a roofing job for the middle of the winter actually may work to a homeowner’s advantage. This is typically a slow time of year for some roofers, and they may be anxious to get work this time of year and be willing to negotiate on price. There’s also a good chance that the roofer will not be bogged down with other jobs, enabling the company to start on a home right away. Some roofers prefer working in the colder weather to sizzling up on a roof under the hot sun at another time of year.

Naturally the spring is a prime time of year for roofing projects. After the rainy season, the weather is generally comfortable and homeowners are thinking about the projects they will commence. A busy time of year for home improvement all around, homeowners may find that they have to compete with others for a good date to have a roof installed. They also may be paying top dollar for the work and materials that are in high demand. Another thing to consider during the busy season is that a project may be rushed along in order to move on to the next job or one being worked on concurrently. This may lead to corners being cut or less attention to detail.

A person may be limited in their choices of roof installation during the summer. Extreme temperatures can make working on the roof hazardous and uncomfortable for workers.

For those who live in a climate where the temperatures generally cause the mercury to soar, choose a cooler time of year.

Many homeowners opt to have a roof replacement in the autumn. The crisp weather and the decline in home-renovation projects overall can make this a prime time to contract with a quality roofer. If the roof is very damaged, replacing it before the harsh, winter weather sets in can be advantageous.

Some homeowners find they can get a discount on a roof installation if they bundle different renovations together. A contractor may offer a special on siding and roofing together. For those who have the funds, this may be the opportunity to get two jobs done at once.

A roofing project is no small undertaking, and homeowners are wise to get several referrals and investigate a variety of companies before settling on one. Review sites, such as Angie’s List, or simply word-of-mouth appraisals from friends and family members can help make choosing a roofer an easier decision.

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W hen Logan Buchholz’s probation officer first told him about Arts Reaching Teens (A.R.T.) for Life – a hands-on, artist-mentor program for youth in juvenile

detention and on probation – he was not quite sure what to expect.

“When I learned it was poetry related, it sparked a little interest,” said Buchholz, a 15-year-old freshman at A&M Consolidated High School. “What I really expected was old guys talking about flowers, but that was a completely wrong assumption.”

Since mid-January Buchholz has been enrolled in a class focusing on “slam” poetry, a competitive form of poetry that focuses on performance. At the end of the class, Buchholz and his classmates will perform their poetry for the public in downtown Bryan.

The slam poetry class is the latest in a series of art courses A.R.T. For Life has provided to youth in juvenile detention and on probation through Brazos County Juvenile Services since 2008.

“In this community our department is always

looking for unconventional ways that we can assist these youth to develop into productive citizens,” said Linda Ricketson, deputy director of community relations for Brazos County Juvenile Services. “These are youth that have made bad decisions, and we need to show them there are better ways of doing things and expressing how they feel.”

The A.R.T. For Life program began five years ago when Robert Person, departmental volunteer coordinator, approached the Arts Council of Brazos Valley to discuss working with Juvenile Services youth in the arts.

“Our department has formed a partnership with the Arts Council of Brazos Valley to work with delinquent youth in this community,” said Ricketson. “This partnership was designed to provide a positive learning experience to these youth in order to assist them in making better decisions for their future.”

Juvenile Services is composed of several units, which work with delinquent youth who are on probation or deferred prosecution, pending court and after their release. At its facility located in Bryan along Texas 21, Juvenile Services provides a secure detention center where juveniles are taken after arrest for certain types of criminal behavior and an alternative education program for some juveniles on probation or expelled from school.

A surveillance unit supervises juveniles in the community who are on strict probation, and a parole unit provides surveillance and delivery of services for youths released from the Texas Youth Commission up to age 21.

Logan Faron, program director for the Arts Council, said he often looks for opportunities that will allow class participants to create a permanent piece of public art for the community to enjoy.

“We like to think of this as a program that allows these kids to give back to the community but also teaches them patience, teamwork and ways to positively express themselves,” said Faron. “We look for artists in the area that have good ideas for these projects – and someone who would make a good instructor.”

In the years since the program was established, more than 100 juveniles have participated in the program, creating masks, two murals (one placed in the children’s area in the Clara B. Mounce Public Library in Bryan and another in the juvenile detention center), a bench that was placed in the Larry J. Ringer Library and a replica of a Chinese Warrior Horse donated to the Arts Council by the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum.

In summer 2012 students worked on Photoshop, under the direction of Timothy Weaver, in a computer lab at Rudder High School. The current class, being led by local nonprofit Mic Check

president Bill Moran, is teaching students an animated brand of performance poetry.

Mic Check, which began seven years ago as a regular open mic competition, became registered as a nonprofit in 2010. The organization hosts free poetry readings and writing workshops in the area.

For his part, Buchholz said the slam poetry program has put him outside his “box.”

“I’m normally bottled up and in my own little world,” he said. “The way I expressed myself in the past was totally different from now. This gives me a way of putting my thoughts down and making some sort of rhyme scheme from it.”

Faron said the various programs offered by A.R.T. for Life have had a similar impact on other juveniles.

“The community gets a great piece of public art, while the program reduces the recidivism rate,” Faron said. “They are less likely to commit crimes again.”

Ricketson said juveniles in A.R.T. For Life also begin to show improvement while enrolled in the program.

“It provides these youth in our juvenile detention center an opportunity to learn about their feelings and their creative skills,” she said. “The youth look forward to the volunteers, and their behavior in the detention center is more positive.”

In order to participate in A.R.T. For Life, Ricketson said juveniles have to maintain Level 1 behavior – the highest positive behavior level assigned by the detention center.

“The fact that a volunteer from the community would take an interest in working with these youth makes them feel that people really care about them,” she said.

The program also gives youth an activity to keep them productive, said Ricketson, so they will not find something to do that will get them into trouble.

“Some of these youth do not have the funds to be in organized, appropriate activities, so this provides the positive outlet,” she said.

(BoTToM righT) Tim weaver, a professor at Blinn College, teaches a class on Photoshop to students in the A.r.T. for life class last summer. (lefT) logan Buchholz

teens develoPing skillsthrough A.r.T. for life program

By Holli l. koSteRSPeCIAl to the eAGle

O pen fl oor plans have evolved to be the fl oor plan of choice in new homes and current home renovations. Turn on a home renovation tv show, and you’re likely to see

eager homeowners knocking down walls to open the kitchen to the family room. Walls have become anathema to homeowners.

Th ere are many supporters of the open fl oor plan, particularly those who entertain frequently or like to keep an eye on children throughout the house. Although open fl oor plans are touted, there are plenty of people who have never been enamored with having all of their rooms fl owing into one. Th ere also are some people who prefer a diff erent style.

For those who are not fans of the open fl oor plan, blame the excess of the 1980s for their inception. In homes built in the 1960s and 1970s, rooms were compartmentalized and isolated for specifi c activities. During the 1980s, an era of “bigger is better,” when entertaining was widely popular among homeowners, designers noticed that many homeowners preferred an open fl oor plan in which rooms merged into one another, creating the illusion of more space. Th ese fl oor plans also enable people to be in separate rooms and still interact with one another across the space.

A home’s fl oor plan largely depends on the preference of the homeowner. Th ere are many advantages to having an open fl oor plan versus one that is more compartmentalized. Here is a look at some of the pros and cons.

PRo Open fl oor plans can be safer for parents of young children. If the home opens up with the living spaces branching off from the kitchen, parents can keep an eye on children while the parents prepare dinner. It also eliminates the number of places that kids can hide and get into mischief.

CoN Privacy is reduced in a home with few walls. Much in the way that an open fl oor plan enables children to be seen from every angle, it also enables you to be seen — and all of your belongings, as well.

Th ere’s also no place to retreat to if you need a minute to collect yourself when entertaining. You’re on display unless you retreat to the bathroom.

PRo Entertaining can be easier in a home with an open fl oor plan because hosts and hostesses are not separated from their guests or holed up in the kitchen the entire time. An open space enables everyone to mingle and conversations to fl ow.

CoN Th ose who like to host events without

showing guests all of their dirty dishes or secrets of the kitchen may dislike an open fl oor plan.

PRo Light can fl ow eff ectively through an open space, minimizing dark rooms and reducing the need to install more windows. Light in and of itself can help a home feel more spacious.

CoN While light can fl ow easily, so can sound. Noises through the house may be amplifi ed. A student doing homework in the dining room may be disturbed by the television blaring in the family room. Talking on the phone or even fi nding a quiet nook to read a book may be challenging.

PRo Open fl oor plans allow for more family time together in one space than a home with a more compartmentalized layout.

CoN People who are collectors or who have a lot of furniture or accent items may fi nd that open fl oor plans do not work well with this type of design mantra.

PRo Because several rooms run into one another, color choices for walls and furnishings in a home with an open fl oor plan can be limited and cohesive, making choices easier.

CoN On the fl ip side, those who want to incorporate diff erent color schemes and eclectic styles may have diffi culty deciding on where to “end” rooms or how to co-mingle furniture.


PRos and consof oPen flooR Plans


F alls cause many injuries inside a home. Seniors are especially susceptible to harmful falls in the bathroom, where slippery tiles

can prove too difficult for older men and women to navigate.

A 2011 study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that nearly 234,000 Americans ages 15 and older were treated in an emergency department for nonfatal bathroom-related injuries in 2008. That adds up to roughly 640 people per day. More than 80 percent of bathroom-related injuries were caused by slips and falls, mostly while getting in and out of the tub or shower, and about 30 percent of those injuries included cuts, scrapes and bruises.

Bathrooms can be more dangerous than other rooms of the house for a variety of reasons. The bathroom is generally comprised of hard surfaces that can become slippery when wet or exposed to high humidity. A bathroom may become hotter than other rooms because of the steam that accompanies a hot shower. Heat may dilate peripheral veins and lower blood pressure in some people. This may lead to dizziness that can result in falls. Furthermore, people tend to rush in the bathroom as they get ready for work or school. Rushing around can lead to slips and injuries on wet surfaces.

Installing safety features in the bathroom is a key way to reduce the risk of accidents. Many manufacturers have even designed these features so they blend with bathroom decor.

When renovating bathrooms for safety, consider the following options.

• Anti-scald features: Burns can be serious business. Few people have been spared the momentary burst of hot water that occurs in the shower or at the faucet when another household member flushes a toilet or uses a large amount of cold water elsewhere in the house. Anti-scald showerheads and faucets prevent sudden bursts of hot water. Use in conjunction with turning down the temperature of the hot water heater to eliminate burns.

• Nonslip mats: Bathroom injuries often occur when people are getting in and out

of the shower. Having a non-slip mat on the inside of the shower or tub, as well as one with a grippable surface and plush top layer on which to step after exiting the shower, can reduce falls. Don’t step out of the shower onto a flimsy towel that can slip out from underneath your feet.

• Bath bench: The elderly or those prone to lightheadedness in the shower may want to invest in a bench or seat to put into the shower. This enables sitting while washing.

• Safety bars: It can be tempting to grab onto towel racks or faucets to get in and out of the shower, but these items cannot provide the necessary leverage to safely move in and out of the shower or bathtub. Safety bars with a brushed surface for traction are more secure. Grab bars need to be securely attached to a wood stud in the wall and not into drywall or the tub enclosure.

• Raised toilet seat: A raised toilet seat reduces the amount of squatting and the distance that has to be covered to sit on the commode. Grab bars on the raised seat itself will provide added safety.

• Telephone: The bathroom may seem an odd place to install a telephone, but having one nearby in the event of injury can ensure help gets to the injured party much more quickly.

• Regular cleaning: Routinely ridding showers and tubs of soap scum and mildew can reduce the slippery coating that forms as a result of these substances. Also, be sure to keep clutter in the bathroom to a minimum to stop trips and falls over errant items in the area.

Bathrooms can present many dangers, but certain safety tools and renovations can help reduce the risk of injury.

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helP reduCe Burn inJuries

in BAThrooMs.

safety measuRescan help reduce bathroom injuries




M ore homeowners are looking to transform their bathrooms into luxurious, relaxing retreats that feature the looks and amenities

of an upscale spa. One way to upgrade the appearance of a bath — and to lessen the burden of maintaining it — is to install a frameless shower enclosure with CLARVISTA® glass by PPG, a shower glass that features fused-on coating to keep its showroom looks longer than more traditional clear shower glass.

The biggest advantage associated with frameless shower enclosures is that they can add to the overall value of your home if they’re done right. Here are some additional reasons to consider a frameless shower for your new or remodeled bath.

• They’re fashionable. Frameless shower enclosures open a world of possibilities because they perfectly complement durable, high-style surfaces used in the bath such as tile, marble and granite. They also provide a great way to show off distinctive shower heads, faucets and fixtures. Finally, because of their openness and transparency, frameless shower enclosures can make your bath feel bigger than it really is.

• They’re versatile. Frameless doors can be designed to fit any space, making them ideal for bathrooms large and small. And they don’t have to be boxy — frameless shower enclosures can be circular, oval or triangular. Even standard square or rectangular enclosures can be dressed up with an artfully bowed, patterned or etched glass door.

• They’re durable. Frameless shower enclosures look elegant, but one of their most redeeming qualities is toughness. Standard shower glasses can range in thickness from 3⁄8 inch to 1⁄2 inch, which makes them sturdy, structurally sound and safe. Watertight seals prevent leakage, and because there is little to no metal used in frameless enclosures, homeowners never have to worry about replacing corroded parts.

• They’re easy to live with. Let’s face it: we all

want to live in our homes for as long as we can. Frameless shower enclosures are a great way to let your home age with you because the entry can be leveled with the floor to create easy access as you become older and less mobile. And frameless glass shower enclosures don’t become passé — they offer a great way to meld timeless style with ageless accommodation.

• They’re easy to clean. With frameless shower enclosures, there are fewer nooks and crannies where dirt and grime can accumulate, making

them easier to clean than other shower styles. For an added level of clarity and sparkle, homeowners should request Clarvista glass by PPG, the coating of which is fused to the glass, which makes the surface almost impervious to corrosion from water deposits, humidity, soap scum and household cleaners. Simply wipe the wet glass every few days with a dry towel or squeegee, and your shower enclosure can look as new as the first day you had it installed.

modeRnizeyouR BAthRoom wIth A fRAmeleSS GlASS ShoweR eNCloSuRemetRo CReAtiveCoNNeCtIoN


D irty windows are unsightly, and they can prevent beneficial sunlight

from entering a home. Cleaning windows need not be done every week, but it shouldn’t be overlooked completely, either. While it certainly may be a chore to clean windows, there are ways to make the task much more tolerable.

Curb appeal can be very important when selling a home. Even a home with a perfectly manicured lawn and the newest roofing and siding can seem unappealing if the windows are dirty. Keeping windows clean requires a good deal of work. For the acrophobics, cleaning second-story windows can test the nerves. Having the right tools on hand and a strategy in place will make the job easier to manage.

CleANiNg wiNDowSCleaning windows won’t

necessarily be easy, but the following nine-step process can make the task less difficult and time-consuming.

1. Choose a day when it is overcast so you will not be blinded by the sun while cleaning. This also helps prevent streaking. Begin by gathering what you’ll need to get the task done. Having everything at the ready will enable

you to move from one window to the next. Here are the basic supplies you will need:• cleaning solution• cloth, newspaper or squeegee• towel• spray bottle• extension pole to reach high windows• vacuum• ladder or step stool• garden hose

2. Take down and clean drapery or blinds when cleaning the windows. Remove the curtains so you will have an unobstructed surface with which to work.

3. Start with the interior side of the windows, as they are easier to access. Place a towel on the sill to catch any drops so the sill or the floor will stay dry.

4. Spray a lint-free cloth or the window directly with the cleaning solution. The edges and corners of the window tend to accumulate the most grime, so begin by cleaning those areas first. Once they are clean and you will not exchange dirt to the center of the window, work on the middle. Wipe the windows in a horizontal direction to help alleviate dripping.

5. To create a streak-free surface, some people prefer to

use a squeegee to drag out any pockets of moisture for more even drying. Be sure to wipe the rubber strip of the squeegee after each pass on the window. You may choose to buff out any other streaks with newspaper.

6. Vacuum the window sill and frame afterward to catch any dust and debris.

7. Repeat the process for all interior windows.

8. Move outdoors and start off by spraying the window with a garden hose to loosen any of the accumulated grime. Use your cleaning solution to dissolve the rest of the dirt. You may want to let it sit on the window if there is stubborn grime. Repeat the cleaning process used indoors for each window.

9. If exterior second-floor windows are hard to reach, consider using a ladder and extension pole to extend your reach. Upper windows will not be scrutinized as closely as lower windows, so you may have a greater margin for error. If the windows are simply too high up, rely on a professional window cleaner to get the job done rather than risk falls or other injuries.

how to clean

diRty windows

mix youR owN CleANiNg SolutioNit may take trial and error to find a solution that works. here is one recipe you may want to start with. 1 cup white vinegar1½ cups rubbing alcohol2 drops of dish soapPour into a clean and empty spray bottle. remember: never mix bleach and ammonia together to create a cleaning solution, as toxic fumes will result.


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M any questions arise during the home-buying process. Buyers looking at homes that require a good deal of TLC may wonder who is responsible for the home’s

repairs, particularly if such repairs are needed to secure a certifi cate of occupancy. Depending on the situation, there is no clear-cut answer.

Th ere is no perfect home, and things that are acceptable to the current owner may not be acceptable to the buyer who is looking to become the next owner. Th e home-buying process is typically a careful cooperation between buyer and seller to fi nd a middle ground. Th e buyer may have to make some concessions, as will the seller. Ultimately, it is this cooperation that oft en determines if the sale goes through or is terminated.

Before any negotiations can begin regarding repairs, it is adviseable for a buyer to have an independent inspector come out and look over the home and property. Most real estate agents will suggest this be done as a fi rst priority — even before a contract is entered on the home. An inspection will unveil any potential problems in a home and indicate things that the buyer may not be aware of, including items that do not meet with code or could be unsafe. An inspector also may point out problems that could cause a mortgage lender to give pause. Th is may mean the lender will deem problems unsafe and refuse to fund the mortgage until repairs are made.

A copy of this inspection report should be sent to the home seller to review with his or her attorney and real estate agent. Th e buyer working with his own real estate attorney and agent can petition for certain repairs to be made. Many sellers will make such repairs to ensure the purchase goes through, or they will accept a lower purchase price to compensate for the needed repairs, which the buyer will then make. Buyers might want to hire a good real estate attorney to write clauses into the contract to protect their interests. Th is allows the buyer to forfeit the sale and walk away from the

contract should an issue arise.Th e rules oft en change when buying a home that is

a short sale or in foreclosure. A home that is in distress is typically in this situation because the current owners cannot aff ord to pay their mortgage, and thusly, are not able to aff ord repairs. According to Th ink Glink,

a money-management Web site, buyers may try to negotiate repairs with the seller, but they shouldn’t assume that sellers (or lenders in the event of a bank-owned home) are responsible for the repairs. Generally speaking, most short sales and foreclosures are sold “as is” and may even specify that repairs and requirements for the certifi cate of occupancy are the buyer’s responsibility. A buyer also can ask to have the home price reduced to cover the repairs. But foreclosures are oft en already deeply discounted.

Buyers should know that, for a home that is not in foreclosure, there are some repairs that should ultimately be the responsibility of the seller. If these repairs are not made, a buyer should think strongly about walking away from the deal, according to Why6Percent.com, a real estate marketing site. Such repairs include:

• lender-required repairs that could impact home safety

• leaky pipes• water penetration issues, including a bad roof• unsafe decking or handrails• wet basements or crawl spaces• insecure foundations or obvious structural damage• poorly functioning sewer lines or septic systemIt is always adviseable for buyers to speak with a

reliable real estate attorney and a trusted real estate agent to guide them through the process of buying a home. Th ese people can help buyers navigate the important decisions that can aff ect the home they’ll be living in for the next several years.

forrepairs during a home sale?

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P aint is one of the least expensive and most versatile means to changing the look of a room. According to the experts from “Th is Old House,” 60 percent of the colors of a home

that visitors perceive come from the paint on the walls. Choosing a color scheme can be challenging, which is why so many people stick with neutrals like beige and white. For those who are ready to add a spark of color, there are a few guidelines to consider.

Color theory is a science and there are rules of using color that are taught as early as a child’s fi rst foray into art class. We know there are primary, secondary and complementary colors on the color wheel. Even novice home decorators can do well with color if they use the color wheel as their guideline.

According to HGTV, color should fl ow throughout a house. Every room need not be painted the same color. However, colors should be complementary enough that they fl ow into one another. Don’t paint one room in child’s basic primary colors, while painting other rooms in jewel tones and pastels. Stick with one theme and carry it through the house.

Once you have decided to use a bold color, fi rst fi nd your color inspiration. Color combinations that appear in nature are more readily accepted by people, so look for an item in nature, such as a seashell or a fl owering plant that you can base your color choices on. Others pull inspiration from a particular design item. For instance, maybe an area rug strikes your fancy. Use colors that appear in the rug in the room.

Keep in mind that using bold color doesn’t mean you have to paint every wall from ceiling to fl oor in that color. Rather, if you’re just starting out with bold colors, select one wall to serve as an accent wall. Use that wall as your bold canvas and paint it with your chosen hue.

Some people like to experiment with a more fl ashy

color in a smaller space. If you’re nervous about beginning in the living room or kitchen, how about trying out bold color in a smaller space, such as a powder room? A more intimate space might seem less overwhelming when painted in a bold color. Go for a deep purple or another jeweled tone. However, try to avoid greens in the bathroom, as they may refl ect off of the mirror and cast a hue onto your face that makes you look unwell. Pinks and peaches will shed a rosy glow.

If you will be incorporating complementary colors into the room, use the paint color swatch as your guide. Most paint manufacturers use three or four diff erent shades on one sample card. When selecting a complementary shade, be sure to pick from the same tone on the card. Th at means if you’re choosing the darkest of color #1 from a card, you’ll want to choose the darkest from color #2.

Another idea is to leave walls neutral and use bold color on design accents. For example, designers at marthastewart.com recommend painting the inside of niches, shelves or cabinets with glass doors in bright tones and the outside white to create an eye-catching space without going overboard. Put a bold color on moulding or use an appliance or a fi xture in a bright color as your splash of boldness.

Remember to have balance. If you will be painting an entire room in a bold color, think about having the other decor items in neutral colors. Sofas and rugs should be neutral colors, or consider toning down a vibrant color with the use of white molding or baseboards.

All it may take is a little inspiration to get started on fun, inviting color schemes in the home. Furniture store Raymour & Flanigan off ers a handy design tool for incorporating diff erent colors into a space. Find ideas at www.raymourfl anigan.com/Design-Center/Color-Story.aspx.

using bold paint colors

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Display Advertising Manager Joanne R. Patranella

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Special Projects Coordinator Dawn Goodall


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Special Projects EditorShauna Lewis


Section DesignerCourtney Lewellen

For questions or comments, please call:979.731.4738

or email: [email protected]

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