ETX View Home & Garden 2024

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Stephen McHaney PUBLISHER

Justin Wilcox

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Tracy Stopani

903-237-7726

Santana Wood PUBLICATION DESIGNER

Kimberley Bailey

Greg Grant

Katecey Harrell

Jennifer Scott

Santana Wood PHOTOGRAPHERS

Les Hassell ADVERTISING

Candace Kozak

Haylea Hudson

Kelly Benton

Kerri Esposito

Morgan Perry

Paula White

Shawna Yockey

Stuart James

Tracy Stopani HOME &

JJJohnny’sCarpetOne

ohnny’sCarpetOne

ohnny’sCarpetOne

Home &Floor is a venerableinstitution, spanningfourgenerations offamilystewardship.Thegenesisof ourlegacytracesbacktothe1950s, whenJackMcGinnisfoundedthe establishment,initially focusingon thesaleofappliancesandfurniture. Transitioningseamlesslywiththe times,hissonsKenandBobassumed leadershipinthe1970s,pivoting towardstheburgeoningfieldoffloor covering.

Home &Floor is a venerableinstitution, spanningfourgenerations offamilystewardship.Thegenesisof ourlegacytracesbacktothe1950s, whenJackMcGinnisfoundedthe establishment,initially focusingon thesaleofappliancesandfurniture. Transitioningseamlesslywiththe times,hissonsKenandBobassumed leadershipinthe1970s,pivoting towardstheburgeoningfieldoffloor covering.

Home &Floor is a venerableinstitution, spanningfourgenerations offamilystewardship.Thegenesisof ourlegacytracesbacktothe1950s, whenJackMcGinnisfoundedthe establishment,initially focusingon thesaleofappliancesandfurniture. Transitioningseamlesslywiththe times,hissonsKenandBobassumed leadershipinthe1970s,pivoting towardstheburgeoningfieldoffloor covering.

In1992,thefamilyventuredinto newterritorywiththeinaugurationof anoutlet,expandingtheirofferings andreach.UponthepassingofBob, Johnnyenteredthefold,collaborating closelywithKenMcGinnis.Through concertedeffortandstrategicvision, Johnnyeventuallyacquiredtheoutlet

In1992,thefamilyventuredinto newterritorywiththeinaugurationof anoutlet,expandingtheirofferings andreach.UponthepassingofBob, Johnnyenteredthefold,collaborating closelywithKenMcGinnis.Through concertedeffortandstrategicvision, Johnnyeventuallyacquiredtheoutlet

In1992,thefamilyventuredinto newterritorywiththeinaugurationof anoutlet,expandingtheirofferings andreach.UponthepassingofBob, Johnnyenteredthefold,collaborating closelywithKenMcGinnis.Through concertedeffortandstrategicvision, Johnnyeventuallyacquiredtheoutlet

location, rebrandingitasJohnny’s FlooringOutlet.

location, rebrandingitasJohnny’s FlooringOutlet.

location, rebrandingitasJohnny’s FlooringOutlet.

Ethan,thegreatgrandsonofJack McGinnis,embodiesthecontinuation ofourfamilialdedication.Graduating fromSFAwith asteadfast resolveto immersehimselfinthefamilybusiness, Ethanbecameinstrumentalinthe acquisitionandtransformationof theCarpetOnelocation,seamlessly integratingourtime-testedformulafor success.

Ethan,thegreatgrandsonofJack McGinnis,embodiesthecontinuation ofourfamilialdedication.Graduating fromSFAwith asteadfast resolveto immersehimselfinthefamilybusiness, Ethanbecameinstrumentalinthe acquisitionandtransformationof theCarpetOnelocation,seamlessly integratingourtime-testedformulafor success.

Ethan,thegreatgrandsonofJack McGinnis,embodiesthecontinuation ofourfamilialdedication.Graduating fromSFAwith asteadfast resolveto immersehimselfinthefamilybusiness, Ethanbecameinstrumentalinthe acquisitionandtransformationof theCarpetOnelocation,seamlessly integratingourtime-testedformulafor success.

Today,Johnny’sCarpetOne Home &Floorstandsas aparagon ofexcellenceinthe realmofflooring solutions,offering acomprehensive arrayofservicescateringtoboth residentialandcommercialclientele. Ourcraftsmanshipadornsnumerous paradehouses,distinguishedby our specializationinbespoketile work,encompassingshowersand backsplashes.

Today,Johnny’sCarpetOne Home &Floorstandsas aparagon ofexcellenceinthe realmofflooring solutions,offering acomprehensive arrayofservicescateringtoboth residentialandcommercialclientele. Ourcraftsmanshipadornsnumerous paradehouses,distinguishedby our specializationinbespoketile work,encompassingshowersand backsplashes.

Today,Johnny’sCarpetOne Home &Floorstandsas aparagon ofexcellenceinthe realmofflooring solutions,offering acomprehensive arrayofservicescateringtoboth residentialandcommercialclientele. Ourcraftsmanshipadornsnumerous paradehouses,distinguishedby our specializationinbespoketile work,encompassingshowersand backsplashes.

W ithinourshowroom,discerning customersencounter acurated selectionofproductsexclusive toCarpetOnestores,fortifiedby robustwarrantiesunparalleledby ourcompetitors.Ourseasonedsales staffpossesses awealthofexpertise, adeptlynavigatingthenuances ofdesigntrendsandinstallation intricaciestoensureasuperlative customerexperience

W ithinourshowroom,discerning customersencounter acurated selectionofproductsexclusive toCarpetOnestores,fortifiedby robustwarrantiesunparalleledby ourcompetitors.Ourseasonedsales staffpossesses awealthofexpertise, adeptlynavigatingthenuances ofdesigntrendsandinstallation intricaciestoensureasuperlative customerexperience.

W ithinourshowroom,discerning customersencounter acurated selectionofproductsexclusive toCarpetOnestores,fortifiedby robustwarrantiesunparalleledby ourcompetitors.Ourseasonedsales staffpossesses awealthofexpertise, adeptlynavigatingthenuances ofdesigntrendsandinstallation intricaciestoensureasuperlative customerexperience

AtJohnny’sCarpetOneHome & Floor,weespouseanunwavering commitmenttoquality,underpinned by asteadfastdedicationtoexemplary service.Frominceptiontocompletion, weendeavortoimbueeveryproject withprofessionalism,expertise,and a touchoffamilialwarmth,ensuringthat eachclientjourneyischaracterizedby satisfactionanddelight

AtJohnny’sCarpetOneHome & Floor,weespouseanunwavering commitmenttoquality,underpinned by asteadfastdedicationtoexemplary service.Frominceptiontocompletion, weendeavortoimbueeveryproject withprofessionalism,expertise,and a touchoffamilialwarmth,ensuringthat eachclientjourneyischaracterizedby satisfactionanddelight

AtJohnny’sCarpetOneHome & Floor,weespouseanunwavering commitmenttoquality,underpinned by asteadfastdedicationtoexemplary service.Frominceptiontocompletion, weendeavortoimbueeveryproject withprofessionalism,expertise,and a touchoffamilialwarmth,ensuringthat eachclientjourneyischaracterizedby satisfactionanddelight

IN EAST TEXAS Gardens MUST-SEE

TYLER ROSE GARDEN THINK GARDEN

Region home to numerous places exploding with floral beauty

STORY BY JENNIFER SCOTT AND SANTANA WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY LES HASSELL

Springtime is a season of new beginnings.

It is a time for the natural world to revive after the dormant months of a cold and bitter winter. It is a time for flowers to bloom, and for people to enjoy spending more time outdoors as the weather gets warmer.

From the Tyler Rose Garden to the Azalea & Spring Flower Trail in Tyler to the award-winning Longview Arboretum, there is no shortage of places to admire floral beauty in East Texas. There are even a few hidden gem spots you may have never heard of. We hope this guide helps you navigate the floral beauty that abounds across our region.

LONGVIEW ARBORETUM AND NATURE CENTER

Take a stroll through the picturesque setting that is the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center, located right in the heart of the city at 706 W. Cotton St.

In just a few short years since its launch, Longview Arboretum has breathed new life into its community. There is a master plan for design of all 26 acres being phased in as fundraising progresses, according to the organization. For now, 11 acres are open to the public after the first phase has been completed.

With so many eye-catching things to see, like calla lilies, daffodils, tulips, fire wheels and so much more, the nature center draws thousands of visitors. Even though the center is ever-growing, the current setting is a sight to behold that will stimulate your senses in the best way.

Daily admission is free for members, or $5 for general admission. There are deals for children, families, seniors and military members.

Through April 30, the hours will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. From May 1 to Aug. 31, hours will change from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and remain the same on Sundays.

TYLER ROSE GARDEN

East Texas was originally known for growing peaches. At the turn of the century, many of the peach crops were

destroyed due to blight, and drought and winter freezes wiped out much of the fruit industry, turning many farmers to growing roses.

According to Visit Tyler, farmers realized the same soil that grew their peaches also grew roses really well. Let us introduce you to the award-winning, nationally known Tyler Rose Garden.

Spanning 14 acres, the Tyler Municipal Rose Garden is the nation’s largest rose garden, boasting well over 38,000 rose bushes and over 300 different varieties, as well as reflecting pools, walkways and fountains. The garden is broken up into different sections, including the Shade Garden, IDEA Garden and more. Some of these spaces are home to numerous other flowers, plants, shrubs and more.

The upkeep of the rose garden requires daily maintenance, and the garden needs adequate water and adequate fertilizer to stay on top of its beauty — a standard the garden employees are dedicated to upholding.

The gardens are a popular destination for both local residents and for visitors, and offer plenty of photographic opportunities, especially for weddings and senior photo shoots. Over 100,000 people visit the garden each year.

Smith County Master Gardeners conduct tours of the Tyler Rose Garden and Tyler Botanical Garden all year long for groups of 10 or more. Tours can be reserved with 30 days notice by emailing Smith County Master Gardeners or calling (903) 590-2980.

Adjacent to the Tyler Rose Garden is the Tyler Rose Museum, which showcases the history of the Texas Rose Festival.

AZALEA & SPRING FLOWER TRAIL

If roses don’t invigorate your floral fancy, perhaps the simplicity and variety of azaleas will, as Tyler has plenty of those too. Roses may capture the attention of many with its traditional and plentiful beauty — particularly in the fall with the Texas Rose Festival — but in the springtime, azaleas reign as queen.

Known for blooming two to three times a year, they are adaptable to climates and location, and can thrive almost anywhere.

Specifically during the Azalea & Spring Flower Trail, which opened this year on March 22 and lasts through April 8.

The entire trail, a photographer’s paradise, is 10 miles long and draws visitors by the thousands each spring. Along with the many azaleas, people will also see white and pink dogwoods, redbud trees, Japanese maples, tulips, and daffodils. Even after the azalea peak passes, other spring flowers will be visible all along the trail.

Some Tyler residents have opened their expansive garden to hundreds of visitors each season as part of the tour.

“I welcome people all the time, except for after dark, of course,” Joan Pryon said in a 2023 interview. She has opened the doors of her famed garden to visitors since 1994.

Of her hundreds of azaleas, Pryon insists the flowers do all the work.

“I put some fertilizer in and cut back every now and then… have someone come mow and do the heavy lifting, but for the most part, the azaleas do what they want,” she said.

Pryon doesn’t just give an eye full of natural beauty for the wandering visitors in her backyard — she provides water cans for kids so they can be a part of the growing process of the azaleas as well.

“God gave me this beautiful garden so I might as well share it,” Pyron said.

DAVEY DOGWOOD PARK IN PALESTINE

Spanning over 250 acres, the Davey Dogwood Park is a huge attraction with a storied history in Palestine.

Located at 900 N. Link St., the park is open year-round and in addition to the beautiful dogwood trees, it has 5 miles of hard surface roads, 8 miles of unincorporated hiking and biking trails, and some of the most scenic views in East Texas. There are also picnic areas so you can sit down and enjoy the beauty around you.

Every year, the Texas Dogwood Trails Celebration is held at the park, drawing thousands of nature lovers and

MRS. LEE'S DAFFODIL GARDEN

tourists to the Palestine area each spring. For several weeks every year, this event highlights the natural beauty of Davey Dogwood Park and the Dogwood Trails, according to Visit Palestine. The celebration includes activities scheduled each weekend, like train rides, farm and flower market, a play at the historic Texas Theatre and more. The celebration kicked off March 22 and lasts through April 7.

EAST TEXAS ARBORETUM & BOTANICAL SOCIETY IN ATHENS

Enjoy 100 acres of pure beauty! Trees, flowers, and wildlife await at the East Texas Arboretum & Botanical Society, located at 1601 Patterson Rd. in Athens.

“The forest appears to come alive as you meander along two miles of woodland trails. Camouflaged frogs, insects, and even deer often scurry away as you pass,” the arboretum website states. “Make your way along winding, spring-fed streams connected by a 115-foot suspension bridge.”

The arboretum is “dedicated to the preservation of the natural environment and the creation of formal and informal plant collections arranged in formal and informal gardens and a native plant area with nature trails,” according to its website.

While enjoying all the natural beauty around you, you can also immerse yourself in Henderson County history at the historic Wofford House Museum. The home was built in 1850 and later moved to the arboretum, where it “stands as a reminder of pioneer days complete with period furnishings, memorabilia, and a seasonal garden,” according to the arboretum’s website.

There is also a Veterans Memorial, the Little Red School House, Discovery Barn with antique items and historical photographs, and more.

The arboretum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $5, and there are deals for veterans, first responders, seniors, students and children. Memberships include free entry.

TULIP FIELDS IN TYLER

Plantation Pines CHRISTmas Tree Farm has a field of tulips every spring.

EAST TEXAS ARBORETUM & BOTANICAL SOCIETY

DOGWOOD PARK

LONGVIEW ARBORETUM

|

CONT. FROM PG. 9

The farm, located at 10098 County Road 429, is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday then 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.

Admission is free. Visitors can pick tulips for $2.75 each. Baskets and scissors for cutting are provided. There is a play area, picnic tables, photo opportunities and more at the local farm.

For the latest updates and photos of how the fields are looking, visit Plantation Pines CHRISTmas Tree Farm on Facebook. It is important to check with the farm before visiting, as the farm will remain open only as long as it still has plenty of tulips to choose from.

The Tyler-area family farm, owned by Heather and Burren Reed, operates on a seasonal schedule with tulips in the spring, pumpkins in the fall, and Christmas trees during the holiday season.

WOOD COUNTY ARBORETUM & BOTANICAL GARDENS IN QUITMAN

Enjoy a floral oasis at the Wood County Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, located at 175 Governor Hogg Parkway in Quitman.

The arboretum is over 23 acres with numerous flower and rose gardens, including sensory, a waterwise, butterfly, and succulent gardens. Take a seat in the gazebo, or get out of the sun in the pergola or shade garden to take in the picturesque views of the gardens. There is also a flagpole and honorarium for fallen soldiers, with benches and statuary throughout.

Also on the property is a historic home. Built in 1869 by James A. Stinson, the house is historic not only for its age but also because Stinson's daughter, Sara Ann or Sallie, married Jim Hogg, the first native born Texas governor, in the front parlor of the house. “Once neglected and empty, the house has been filled with donated antiques, and volunteers have made critical repairs to maintain the integrity of the house and allow public access,” the website states.

The gardens are open year round and open to the public to enjoy for free, every day from dawn to dusk. Self-guided tours of the Stinson House are permitted from 9 a.m. to noon every Wednesday. While there is no fee to tour the property, donations are welcomed.

HIDDEN GARDENS NURSERY & TEA HOUSE IN BULLARD

This unique location’s name is akin to the hidden gem it is. Located at 967 FM 2493 in Bullard, this is a tea room and garden center – all in one tranquil location.

This is a place where you can enjoy the floral beauty around you – and even buy some to take home to plant in your own garden. Plus, your senses will come alive with their tasty homemade lunches and variety of hot tea, served out of fine china teacups. Menu items include soups like broccoli and cheese, tomato bisque, or creamy lasagna, plus sandwich classes like chicken salad, BLT, a variety of warm paninis, fresh handmade salads, and even more.

Enjoy lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the garden from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

AZALEA TRAIL PYRON GARDEN

MRS. LEE’S DAFFODIL GARDEN IN GLADEWATER

While the peak season has passed, this list wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Mrs. Lee’s Daffodil Garden in Gladewater.

The garden closed in mid-March for the season, but it is a must-see to add to your list for next spring.

In the 1950s, Helen Lee began transforming the once-ordinary landscape surrounding her property near Gladewater into a breathtaking daffodil haven that annually produces a spectacular sea of yellow and white blooms.

Beginning around mid-February, millions of daffodils spring to life along a 4-mile driveway around two lakes, between wooded valleys and around a replica pioneer log cabin at the garden, located at 21600 County Rd 3103.

With several parking areas and walking paths, the garden has become a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, offering a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts, photographers and families.

After Lee’s death in 1984, the 28-acre property has remained open to the public during the peak blooming season and maintained through the Helen Lee Foundation. The foundation is a nonprofit organization, and although admission is free, donations are accepted.

This list is not exhaustive. Explore East Texas and find more beautiful spaces throughout our region. Find an amazing spot you think we should feature? Email us at info@etxview.com

PROACTIVE PLANNING

Severe weather can strike unexpectedly, and local experts say it’s crucial to be prepared

STORY BY KATECEY HARRELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY LES HASSELL

While severe weather can’t be controlled, homeowners can take basic steps to prepare for an emergency and even prevent some disasters at their home.

Many people tend to procrastinate and delay their preparations, which only makes things worse once your home is affected by severe weather.

"The problem is everybody procrastinates, and then everybody wants the same thing at the same time," said Jason Blakeney, owner of Blakeney Hardware, a locallyowned and family-operated hardware store serving Tyler, Gresham, Flint, Bullard and the surrounding areas. "Nobody can stock that much to supply 200,000 people with the same product."

Blakeney suggests homeowners start planning for extreme weather events as soon as possible. Waiting until the last minute leaves people stressed out, rushing around town and fighting for the same product everyone else is looking for.

"Get ready beforehand, including the grocery store," he said.

Local government entities and emergency management offices have response plans for specific events, including tornadoes, cold and excessive heat. Severe weather season is upon us, as the vast majority of tornadoes in Texas happen during March through June. Severe thunderstorms are also more frequent during this

four-month span. While the upcoming months are the peak, these storms can strike any time of year, meaning preparedness all year long is critical.

During the latest winter storm, Blakeney sold out of kerosene and propane heaters as well as small and large propane replacement bottles. His store sold about 20 generators. Depending on the duration and severity of the weather, people may buy generators, lamps, fuel and more. It is essential to weatherize your home and buy items that may help during an emergency. For home repairs, one can find PVC and other plumbing equipment at area hardware stores like Blakeney.

"The sooner you can start, they ease the stress on the whole system, and they're more likely to find (the items you need)," Blakeney said. "The sooner you can start thinking about the problems and preparing, the better you're gonna be and everybody else will be."

The Texas General Land Office (GLO) website states the impact of a storm cannot be predicted, so it’s important for residents to protect their property, know their risks, and purchase flood insurance if necessary. Keep extra batteries for radios and flashlights and a full tank of gas.

“From fires to floods, being prepared and staying prepared can help you protect your family in case a disaster strikes,” Texas GLO Commissioner Dawn Buckingham said in a recent press release.

Texas has had 372 declared disasters since 1953, according to the GLO. Of Texas’ total declarations, more than 30% happened in August or later. Evacuations are more common than most may think, and few disasters

come with a lot of warning time.

Smith County Emergency Management Coordinator Brandon Moore adds, “a little pre-treatment of your house and safety plans will go a long way.”

The GLO encourages residents to sign up for your community’s emergency warning system. In Smith County and also in Longview, residents can enroll in the RAVE mass notification system, which allows emergency managers to notify citizens of necessary information in times of local emergency or disaster. Smith County or Longview residents can sign up at smart911.com/ smart911/ref/reg.action?pa=smithcounty or smart911. com/smart911/ref/reg.action?pa=longviewtexas. The Emergency Alert System and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.

Additionally, residents should make an evacuation plan. Check with local officials about updated evacuation shelters for this year. Charlene Ingram, State Farm insurance agent in Longview, said in a previous interview that each family member should be aware of at least two ways to evacuate a home quickly, and a safe meetup location should be determined as part of the plan. The GLO suggests packing a “go bag” including items you need to take with you if you evacuate. A “go bag” should be easy to carry and kept in a place where you can grab it quickly. Check with drivetexas.org to find routes near you. To find a shelter near you, download the FEMA app at fema.gov/mobile-app.

Remember to secure copies of important personal documents. Filing for government assistance requires documentation. Ingram said important possessions should be kept in a secure place so they can be easily retrieved during an evacuation. Ingram recommends investing in a lock box for documents and smaller items, and the GLO said these documents can be placed in a waterproof bag and backed up on cloud storage or a thumb drive.

Be sure to grab the supplies you may need. Plan for your entire household including children, people with

| CONT. FROM PG. 13

disabilities or access/functional needs, and pets. Stock up on essential food items and water and include them in an easily accessible emergency kit. Kits should contain a couple days worth of non-perishable food items, two to three gallons of water per person, medications, important documents, flashlights and batteries, Ingram said.

When it comes to protecting your home against a tornado and storms with high winds, Ingram recommends installing impact-resistant windows as well as impact-resistant roofing.

To protect against wildfires, Ingram said creating a defensible space around the home can be done by removing any dead or unnecessary vegetation. A defensible area is a 5- to 10-foot boundary around the home.

"Move your stack of firewood away from the house. Move all fire hazards like wooden patio furniture or other combustible materials. Use stones or gravel instead of mulch," she said.

In addition to taking precautions such as these, Ingram said it's important to make sure a home is properly insured. Homeowners should contact their insurance agent and review coverage, she said.

Additionally, finances should always be organized to account for an emergency. Ingram recommends having at least six months of money saved in case of disaster.

Here are more disaster preparation tips from the American Red Cross:

Fire safety: Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas; test smoke alarms every month; and talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.

Flooding preparation: Check with a professional to raise your furnace, water heater, and electric panel to floors that are less likely to be flooded as well as install check valves in plumbing to prevent floodwater from

SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE

DETECTORS are available at Groom & Sons Hardware in Longview.

GAS-POWERED GENERATORS are for sale at Groom & Sons Hardware in Longview.

backing up into the drains of your home; use sand bags when flooding is expected.

Storms and tornadoes: Learn more about your community’s emergency warning system for severe thunderstorms; discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with all members of your household; pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm; make trees and shrubbery more wind resistant by keeping them trimmed and removing damaged branches; remove any debris or loose items in your yard; consider installing permanent shutters to cover windows; strengthen garage doors.

Blakeney Hardware is a locally owned, family operated hardware store located in the Gresham area. Owner Jason Blakeney said being prepared for severe weather is critical, and his store offers many items residents need. (Photo Special to ETX VIEW)

WindowsofOpportunity:

WindowsofOpportunity:

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AllSeasons TransformsEastTexasHomeswith QualityCraftsmanship

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Amanufacturerwhoinstallsit'swindowsanddoorsis ararity anywhere,muchlessinEast Texas.Thedriving reasonbehindAll Seasonsinstallingwindowsinresidentialhomeswasduetothe poorinstallationofmanyinstalledwindowsanddoors.In2008 llSeasonsbeganinstalling residentialreplacementwindows anddoorsinexistinghomesbecause apoorinstallationcanruin

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AllSeasonsnowhaswellover100employeesandbuildshighend residential,commercial,andarchitecturalgradewindows anddoors.Locatedat400AmbassadorRowinLongview,they wouldlovetogiveyou atourofthe110,000SFmanufacturing plantandshowroom9am-4pmMonday-Friday.Justcall903753-1321.Theyalsoofferfreeestimatesatyourhomeatyour convenienceorvisittheirwebsiteanytime: allseasonswindows.com

AllSeasonsnowhaswellover100employeesandbuildshighend residential,commercial,andarchitecturalgradewindows anddoors.Locatedat400AmbassadorRowinLongview,they wouldlovetogiveyou atourofthe110,000SFmanufacturing plantandshowroom9am-4pmMonday-Friday.Justcall903753-1321.Theyalsoofferfreeestimatesatyourhomeatyour convenienceorvisittheirwebsiteanytime: allseasonswindows.com

Oasis

An in Your

Backyard

How to create an outdoor living retreat

Al fresco entertaining has taken off in recent years. It’s much more common today to find homeowners who want to extend living spaces to the outdoors in meaningful ways that go beyond a few lawn chairs and a stand-alone grill. Dream backyard living rooms mirror similar spaces indoors and contain features like cozy corners, lush furniture and televisions or movie projectors. Plus, they often abut additional outdoor luxuries like fully functional kitchens.

Homeowners have various options when designing outdoor living spaces. Above all else, spaces should be created with the goal of encouraging people to get together. Here are some ideas.

POOLSIDE RETREAT

Homeowners with pools and other water features likely want this area to be the star of the entertaining space. Furniture will be more of the lounging variety, with comfortable chaises and spots to catch the sun. If a swim-up bar isn’t possible, a rolling bar cart can be stocked with essentials for cocktails or mocktails for the kids. Furniture near the pool will be exposed to a lot of sun, so look for durable, sun-resistant fabrics.

FIRESIDE NOOK

Gathering around an outdoor fireplace or fire pit is a treat when the weather cools down, and spring is the perfect time to work on these sort of projects so it’s ready once fall arrives. Mirror the look of the same setup indoors by arranging outdoor sofas so they flank the fireplace. Add some ottomans or side tables for stowing mulled cider or hot chocolate. A mantel above the fireplace can hold pots of greenery or candles that add to the ambiance.

CONSIDER A CUSTOM BANQUETTE

Unused corners on a patio or rooftop retreat can utilize a custom-made banquette that provides the functionality of a sofa sectional outdoors. Have a contractor design it to the exact specifications of the area, and add a rug to ground the space.

VARY THE FLOORING

Depending on the entertaining space, a balance of soft grass, pavers or other hardscape will be necessary. Certain areas will need to be hard enough for chairs and other furniture, particularly for those who are including an outdoor dining table in the design.

CREATE SOME PRIVACY

Some homeowners are lucky enough to have natural barriers that offer privacy in their entertaining spaces. When there isn’t enough, tall shrubs, inexpensive bamboo fencing or trellis can provide a blind that makes an outdoor living area more cozy and private. Consider placing tall, potted plants on rolling casters to improve privacy as the need arises.

Outdoor living spaces are all the rage, and they can add value and functionality to most any home.

When to plant what?

An expert offers advice

STORY BY GREG GRANT

grow: winter (cool-season) plants, spring and fall (mildseason) plants, and summer (hot-season) plants.

The time to plant spring vegetable gardens with mild-temperature loving plants like beans, cucumbers, peppers, squash, and tomatoes is almost here. These plants are generally planted between mid-March and early-April here, after all danger of frost.

For each growing season, sit down with a paper and pencil and plot out what you intend to grow. We can grow crops year-round here and certainly should. Make a winter list, a spring list, a summer list, and a fall list. When one crop is finished, pull it up and put in the next season’s plants.

Many novice gardeners think spring is the only vegetable-producing time we have — not so. And for heaven’s sake if you only grow a garden during the spring, don’t let it grow up in weeds when you stop gardening in the summer. This just ensures that you will have weeds forever. It’s better to keep it covered with mulch or at least weed free when not in production.

If you don’t garden during the summer, plant a cover crop of southern peas or sweet potatoes that can take the heat. The same goes for the winter. At least cover the ground with cereal rye, mustard, or turnips instead of letting it grow up in weeds or have your precious soil wash away in a flood instead.

Be very wary viewing social media or looking at

packets on a seed racket. I can assure you the seed companies have never posted or printed a seed pack with an ugly picture that says, “This won’t grow in Texas.” Unfortunately, not all crops and all varieties will grow here.

Also be very mindful of the season. Just because you see strawberry plants for sale doesn’t mean it’s time to plant them (we plant those in the fall here). Get a good Texas gardening calendar each year that shows the proper planting times and be faithful to them.

Our Texas A&M University horticulturists spent many years figuring out what would grow here and when to plant it. Don’t waste that valuable information. To view our East Texas planting calendar visit smith.agrilife. org, scroll down to “Sign up for Email Updates,” and click on “Horticulture Mailing List-Greg Grant.” You can also order a 2024 Planning Guide and Calendar from texasgardener.com.

And finally, please learn to identify a sunny location. Do not confuse direct sun (when a beam of light shines directly on you) with full sun (a full day’s worth of direct sun from the time it rises in the morning until it sets in the evening). All vegetables need full sun, or at the least eight direct hours of it.

As my mentor, Dr. Jerry Parsons, always said, “If you can’t sunbathe there, you can’t grow a vegetable garden, there.” Many folks in Texas like to work in the shade, but if you are working in the shade in a vegetable garden you’ve made a big mistake, and your production will suffer immensely.

— This column first appeared in the Tyler Morning Telegraph. Greg Grant is the Smith County horticulturist and Master Gardener coordinator for the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. You can read his “Greg’s Ramblings” blog at arborgate.com, read his “In Greg’s Garden” in each issue of Texas Gardener magazine (texasgardener.com), or follow him on Facebook (“Greg Grant Gardens”) and Instagram (“ggrantgardens”).

DAVILLKITCHENSETX:

DAVILLKITCHENSETX: THEKITCHENMAGICIANREDEFININGCULINARYSPACES

DAVILLKITCHENSETX: THEKITCHENMAGICIANREDEFININGCULINARYSPACES

THEKITCHENMAGICIANREDEFININGCULINARYSPACES

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Housing 2024 Trends

Lower rates and more affordability

Attention, home buyers, homeowners and renters: 2024 might treat you more kindly than 2023 did.

The housing market was downright hostile in 2023. The 30-year mortgage rate rose from about 6% in February to 8% in October. The median home price peaked above $400,000. Home affordability plunged.

2024 will bring lower mortgage rates, forecasters predict. If they're right, home buyers will gain purchasing power.

"It'll be nice to move past the point where we're not setting new records for unaffordability," says Danielle Hale, chief economist for Realtor.com.

If optimistic forecasts are accurate, more homeowners might list their homes for sale in 2024, even if it means giving up their low mortgage rates. And renters might get some relief too. Here are mortgage and housing trends to watch for in 2024.

MORTGAGE RATES SHOULD TREND A LITTLE LOWER

Fannie Mae, the Mortgage Bankers Association and the National Association of Realtors all predict that the 30-year mortgage rate will fall to below 7% in the second half of 2024.

Daryl Fairweather, chief economist for Redfin, agrees that rates will fall, but she cautions that the decline won't be smooth. "I think there will be swings," she says. "And the swings will be large, both up and down. But the trend will be, on average, down."

Fannie Mae, Mortgage Bankers Association and National Association of Realtors predict that mortgage rates will drop in 2024.

A couple of things to keep in mind. First, the three organizations failed to forecast the rise in mortgage rates in 2023. Second, even if they're correct about rates falling in 2024, they still predict that the 30-year mortgage will end the year above 6%. They're not saying that rates will fall to the sub4% levels seen from 2019 and into 2022.

"I think the era of very low interest rates was just like a once-in-a-generation thing to happen," says Dave Liniger, who co-founded Re/Max Holdings, a real estate franchiser, two generations ago in 1973. "And I just don't see it going back."

BUT HOME PRICES WON’T FALL MUCH, IF AT ALL

If you hope for plunging prices, you're probably not going to get your wish in 2024.

If prices fall — and that's a big "if" — they won't decline much, because the market has reached a persistent equilibrium: Few homes were on the market toward the end of 2023, and buyers were deterred by high interest rates. The standoff is likely to continue. Home prices won't fall until buyers are outnumbered by sellers.

"We just have very, very few sellers," said Mike

Simonsen, president of real estate analytics firm Altos Research, in a video presentation on Oct. 23. "Declining home prices probably require that supply-and-demand imbalance, and what we have is really a balance. There's a balance between low demand and low supply."

If lower rates revive demand, won’t that drive prices higher? Economic theory says yes. But human behavior is more complex than economic theory.

"In general, you would expect that if mortgage rates fall, it creates more affordability and that should kind of boost housing demand, which might then push prices back up," Hale says. "I don't expect that we're going to see that trend in 2024."

Why not? Affordability, Hale says. Buyers' finances are already stretched to the limit, so there won't be much room for home prices to rise, even if mortgage rates fall.

MORE NEW CONSTRUCTION OF SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES

Until more houses hit the market, prices don't have much room to move down.

Help is on the way. Builders are applying for more permits to construct single-family houses. They sought 968,000 permits in October at a seasonally adjusted annual rate, the most since May 2022. When those houses are completed, they'll add to the total housing supply.

And it's about time for more single-family houses to get built, says Erin Sykes, chief economist for Nest Seekers International, a multinational real estate brokerage. "We've had this ongoing conversation about the shortage of housing, which is true, generally speaking," she says, "but it's actually a shortage with more of an asterisk. We have an oversupply of multifamily and a shortage of single-family."

RATE LOCK-IN MAY BEGIN TO EASE

For every 20 homes that were for sale at the end of October 2019, just 13 were for sale in October 2023. This decline is blamed on a phenomenon called rate lock-in.

Rate lock-in occurred as people bought homes, or refinanced their mortgages, when mortgage rates were low — often below 4% — in 2020 and 2021. Those homeowners are reluctant to sell their homes and give up those low rates. They are locked in.

Economists believe two factors — time and falling rates — are the keys. "As mortgage rates come down, as homeowners build equity, I think we'll start to see the lock-in effect abate," Hale says. More people will list their homes for sale, giving buyers more houses to choose from and relieving some of the upward pressure on prices. This will be a multi-year process.

There's much uncertainty about 2024. But all in all, the outlook is for an improvement over 2023.

— Originally published on nerdwallet.com, part of the BLOX Digital Content Exchange via Longview News-Journal and Tyler Morning Telegraph.