The Louisiana Iris Conservation Initiative: Rescuing and Revitalizing a State Treasure

Since Salathe founded the Louisiana Iris Conservation Initiative (LICI) in 2020, the organization has coordinated the rescue of more than 62,000 irises to preserve and perpetuate the five species native to south Louisiana wetlands. This nonprofit relocates irises in danger of being destroyed to safer locations, especially places where the public can enjoy the flowers. Each flower is dug up and replanted one by one, a labor of love for the volunteers and organizers.

The LICI frequently rescues irises from areas slated for commercial development. One such property in LaPlace, zoned for commercial use and up for sale, has allowed LICI to harvest irises for years. "This site is so perfect for what we do," Salathe said. "'No iris left behind' is our motto."

Salathe secures permits to replant the irises along swamp boardwalks, nature trails, parks, and wildlife refuges throughout southeast Louisiana. Although planting season generally runs from October to December, last year's drought delayed it. Despite these challenges, LICI's dedication remains unwavering.

On March 2, during LICI's last large-scale event of the season, volunteers replanted more than 500 rescued irises in Assumption Parish at the future site of the Pierre Part/Belle River Museum and at a nearby kayak launch in Veterans Park. The fruits of their labor are visible when irises bloom in late March and early April. The Louisiana Iris Conservation Initiative maintains an online Google map of the 20 best places to see Louisiana irises in their natural habitat. The organization's Facebook page provides updates on the blooms.

"At one time, there were irises in every ditch in south Louisiana," Salathe said. "Everybody looked forward to the bloom as part of the culture." Herbicides, hurricanes, saltwater intrusion, and other factors have made the Louisiana state wildflower much harder to find. "Out of sight, out of mind," Salathe said. "Our goal is to get the Louisiana iris back into the culture and consciousness of the New Orleans area."

Now retired, Salathe co-owned a residential construction company for 21 years. But for a quarter-century, his main "hobby" was restoring a clear-cut parcel of long-leaf pine forest he owned in Tangipahoa Parish. A decade ago, he shifted his flora focus to irises. In 2014, he joined the Greater New Orleans Iris Society, the Society for Louisiana Irises, and the American Iris Society. By 2020, he had launched the Louisiana Iris Conservation Initiative as a non-membership organization. He depends on volunteers to supply manpower and partners with various community organizations.

Over the past century, crossbreeding has produced hundreds of "cultivars," the hybrid irises of many colors that populate most home gardens. However, LICI's big-picture goal is to build a reserve of irises for long-term wetlands restoration projects such as the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion. "It would take decades for native vegetation to rebuild itself in newly created wetlands," Salathe said. "Somebody needs to get out there with boots on the ground and put it in." Getting native Louisiana irises added to the USDA's list of plants approved for purchase by marsh restoration companies would help.

"These irises are going to double in number every year," Salathe said. "So four or five years from now, when the restoration of the marshes and swamps really kicks in, we'll have a base of plants that we'll be able to add into the mix to try to reconstruct what used to be there."

During a February rescue in LaPlace, Salathe gave volunteers a tutorial on swamp safety and explained how to dig up an iris without damaging its thick root. Veteran volunteers like David Duvic and Connie Adams were already familiar with the process, spending hours picking weeds from iris root clusters.

"They're helping me by getting our goals accomplished," Salathe said. "We're helping them by giving them a diverse experience that maybe they wouldn't have otherwise. It's a win-win deal."

Christopher "Cairo" Jackson, a Limitless Vistas grants coordinator, noted that working with LICI allows people who have spent much of their life in metropolitan New Orleans to see a different side of their home. Volunteers managed to pluck 2,000 plants from the muck in three hours, which Salathe then stored in his garage, watering the irises twice daily until they were replanted at Nicholls State.

Elard Phillips, a Limitless Vistas board member on his first LICI rescue, admitted the work was "a little challenging," but he added, "years from now, it will be appreciated."

The Louisiana Iris Conservation Initiative, under Salathe's passionate leadership, is a testament to the power of community and dedication to preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Louisiana's irises. Through their efforts, they are not only saving plants but also nurturing the spirit of conservation and appreciation for the natural world.

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Key Tips for Navigating the Home Buying Process

Between a fluctuating housing market and sky-high mortgage rates, those in the market for a home today may find the homebuying process tricky to navigate. According to KeyBank's 2024 Financial Mobility Survey, there are three primary concerns weighing heavily on the minds of recent and prospective homebuyers: inflation (40%), competition in the market (36%), and interest rates/mortgage rates (34%). Surprisingly, just 37% of these respondents are mapping out a budget and financial plan to save for their home purchase.

Regardless of the current economic conditions, achieving the dream of homeownership is possible in any market. Here are several steps and resources available to help you meet this goal.

Tip 1: Create a Dedicated Savings Account for Your Down Payment

Putting aside money in a dedicated savings account is one of the first steps in the right direction and is the most common savings tactic (43%) among those who are in the market for a home, according to KeyBank's survey. These funds can be used at the time of purchase for a down payment, which is generally 5% to 20% of the total loan amount. However, waiting to purchase a home until you have saved more—past your goal amount—can help ensure you have emergency funds ready for any added expenses.

According to the survey, half of new homeowners (51%) expect to use more of their savings next year compared to those in the market for a home (45%) or who don't own a house (35%). Ensuring that you have extra money set aside can help you be prepared for any unexpected expenses.

Tip 2: Check Your Credit Score

When applying for a mortgage, your credit score will influence whether you will be approved. It also affects your interest rate. Among those who completed the KeyBank 2024 Financial Mobility survey and are in the market for a home or have purchased one in the last 12 months, one-third (34%) cited interest and mortgage rates as a top factor influencing their purchasing decision.

During your homebuying journey, avoid closing any active credit cards or opening new cards or lines of credit, as this can negatively affect your score. A few years in advance of shopping for your home, you can begin building your credit by opening and maintaining a credit card, such as the Key Secured Credit Card. You should also ensure that you are paying your bills on time and keeping your credit card balances low.

It's important to dispute any potential errors that may appear on your credit report before applying for a mortgage.

Tip 3: Establish a Relationship with a Mortgage Loan Officer

Meeting with a mortgage loan officer can help assess your overall finances and provide a personalized approach to finding the right mortgage. In fact, among KeyBank survey respondents who are in the market for a home or who have purchased a home in the last 12 months, just 12% said they did not or will not work with a mortgage loan officer.

Mortgage loan officers can help you plan for additional costs that may be incurred in the purchase of the home, such as moving and renovation expenses, homeowner's insurance, interest, taxes, and more. If you're not quite ready to meet with a mortgage loan officer, consider utilizing online tools, such as mortgage calculators, to further understand what is needed to purchase your home.

Tip 4: Identify Ways to Reduce Out-of-Pocket Costs

Many states and financial institutions offer assistance programs for first-time homebuyers and other borrowers. Based on your income and location, you may also be eligible for special purpose credit programs, including grants, additional loans, interest rate discounts, and other monetary assistance for closing costs and fees that may come with financing a new home.

KeyBank, for example, offers three Special Purpose Credit Programs to help borrowers with qualifying properties in eligible communities. These include the Neighbors First Credit, which provides up to $5,000 toward closing and other costs for qualifying properties, and the Key Opportunities Home Equity Loan to assist with home-improvement costs following your big purchase.

You can find more information about programs like these online or contact your bank to help you access these resources.

Sustainable homeownership is a wealth-building tool that can help families and neighborhoods grow and thrive. Navigating the homebuying process can be challenging, but with the right steps and resources, it's possible to achieve your goal. By creating a dedicated savings account, checking your credit score, establishing a relationship with a mortgage loan officer, and identifying ways to reduce out-of-pocket costs, you can make buying the home of your dreams easier.

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2024 Decor Trends For Bedrooms

Over the past few years, the way we use our homes—including our bedrooms—has changed drastically. But what about how we decorate—have our tastes for bedroom decor trends shifted too? The pandemic-fueled fervor to adapt these (and countless other) spaces to new ways of living led to an explosion of both DIY and designer-led makeovers and home-improvement projects, yielding results that were as unexpected as they were diverse. Maximalism stood up to modernity, a newfound value of craft had consumers rethinking their big-box purchases, and so much more.

The Shift in Bedroom Aesthetics

As we look ahead to 2024, it's clear that the bedroom remains a focal point for design innovation and personal expression. AD PRO consulted with some of the industry's leading tastemakers to uncover the bedroom decor trends they foresee rising above the rest in the coming year.

Richer Natural Colors

While neutrals in the bedroom may not seem like news, New York–based designer Alfredo Paredes anticipates a move away from "beigey sand and stone hues" in favor of richer natural colors. These tones can deliver the same soothing warmth, he notes, especially when "paired with the right lighting and grounded furnishings." In his recent collaboration with Australian bedding manufacturer Cultiver, superstar stylist Colin King proves the theory with chic saturated shades like flax, truffle, and aubergine. "I wanted the collection to carry itself through the different seasons," he notes of the textural linen bed covers, throws, and pillows.

Minimalist Bed-Making

In addition to shifting shades, the very act of bed-making itself is undergoing transformation. According to AD100 designer Adam Charlap Hyman, monastic two- and four-pillow arrangements are increasingly popular among clients. "I think this is a reaction to the department-store beds of our childhood that were laden with 10,000 pillows," he says. Instead, Charlap Hyman's Los Angeles– and New York–based firm has been leaning into the minimal styles of the 1920s, '30s, '50s, and '60s.

The Rise of Vintage and Antiques

As the interest in 20th-century design continues to soar, so too will the incorporation of vintage pieces. Paredes believes that carefully curated antiques contribute "soul and depth" in the bedroom, arguing that furnishings from bygone eras "can connect the interior to the architecture of the home and its surrounding environment."

AD100 and AD PRO Directory designer Corey Damen Jenkins agrees, asserting that antiques feed an increasing desire from clients for "individuality" or "uniqueness" within private, personal spaces. In a recent bedroom trend report for mattress manufacturer Stearns & Foster, Jenkins uncovered that requests for one-of-a-kind design elements are soaring among clients within his own firm and those of his contemporaries. Of his own approach, he comments, "There's ways that we have tried to capture more individuality as it pertains to the bedroom, and as it pertains to decoration in particular—whether it be estate finds, online sources, going to flea markets, going to estate sales, going to online auctions." That doesn't always necessitate a big investment: "Sometimes it's just a trinket a moment," he adds, "you know, your child's cup, or something that in itself has value and provenance because no one else has it."

A Call for Color

Jenkins also reported that the call for color is ringing louder than ever. After completing a number of oatmeal and white-soaked interiors during the pandemic, he revealed that several clients had actually returned to him requesting that the firm reimagine their designs with more chromatic variety. "It is a myth that serene, neutral, pale colors are the best and most well-suited for sleep. There really isn't a lot of science or research on this as far as which colors are more soothing, because everyone's tastes are different," he says. "We've done bedrooms that have been in bright sunshine yellow, and buttery, clean, and white because that client wants to jump out of bed and [be surrounded by] sunshine, positivity, and optimism."

Embracing Color Drenching

Elizabeth Graziolo, founder of AD100 firm Yellow House Architects, seconds the notion, praising the act of "color drenching" as "far from a fleeting trend." Often championing the firm's signature golden shade within her work, Graziolo is a proponent of a "full-on, single-hue explosion across all room surfaces."

The first half of the 2020s has been a dizzying inflection point for the design industry, leaving many to wonder which of these new modes will stick around. In the boudoir, where designers face the multifaceted challenge of balancing comfort and respite, utility and practicality, self-expression, and style, the decisions can seem endless. As we move forward into 2024, it's clear that bedroom decor will continue to evolve, embracing richer colors, minimalist bed-making, vintage charm, and bold hues to create spaces that are as unique as those who inhabit them.

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As the new year unfolds, the housing market is showing signs of becoming more favorable for buyers, a welcome change after the challenges of recent years. Key indicators such as mortgage rates and home inventory are beginning to shift, suggesting potential relief and more opportunities for prospective homeowners.

Falling Mortgage Rates and Increasing Home Supply

One of the most significant developments has been the decrease in mortgage rates, which had soared to heights not seen in over two decades. As of early February, the average rate for a 30-year mortgage had dropped to 6.63%, according to Freddie Mac. This downward trend is expected to continue, with projections from the Mortgage Bankers Association suggesting that rates could dip to as low as 6% by the end of 2024. While these reductions may not dramatically enhance affordability, they represent a meaningful reduction in monthly payments that could provide some relief to buyers.

Simultaneously, the market is experiencing a growth in home supply. December 2023 saw a 9.1% increase in newly listed homes compared to the previous year, based on data from Realtor.com. This improvement in inventory is crucial for buyers who have been competing in an intensely tight market.

Regional Variations and Predictions

However, the impact of these national trends can vary significantly by region. According to Realtor.com's Danielle Hale, areas in the Midwest and Northeast are expected to see considerable growth in home prices and sales. Cities like Toledo and Rochester are forecasted to experience substantial increases in both home sales and prices. Conversely, regions that surged during the pandemic, such as Austin and Dallas, might see a decline in home prices as the market stabilizes.

Strategic Advice for Home Buyers

For those looking to navigate this evolving market, staying informed and prepared is key. Monitoring new listings closely and being ready to act swiftly remains critical, as homes, particularly turnkey properties, are still selling relatively quickly. Utilizing tools such as real-time notifications from platforms like Realtor.com, Redfin, and Zillow can help buyers stay on top of market developments.

Furthermore, enlisting a knowledgeable real estate agent is more crucial than ever. Agents with deep local market understanding can provide invaluable insights and guidance, particularly in how broader trends are playing out regionally. They can also assist in navigating the complexities of the buying process, from securing preapproval to finalizing a purchase.

Financial Considerations

Potential homebuyers should also consider their financing options carefully. With predictions of further rate decreases, paying for mortgage points to lower interest rates might not be cost-effective if refinancing is a likely option down the road. Additionally, exploring down payment assistance programs can provide significant financial support, especially for first-time buyers navigating the initial costs of purchasing a home.

Looking Ahead

As the market adjusts, the overall outlook for buying a home in 2024 is promising. With mortgage rates expected to decrease further and a gradual increase in housing inventory, the dynamics are shifting in favor of buyers. However, the market remains complex, and regional variations mean that the experience of buying a home can differ significantly depending on where one is looking.

For prospective buyers, the current environment suggests that now might be a good time to start preparing for potential opportunities in the housing market. By staying informed, working with experienced professionals, and carefully planning finances, buyers can position themselves to make the most of the evolving market conditions. As the landscape continues to change, those ready to adapt can find themselves well-placed to secure a home that meets their needs and budget.

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Covington: The Growing Gem of the North Shore

Covington, Louisiana, once known as "the North Shore's best kept secret," is now heralded as the "North Shore's Renaissance." This quaint town, rich in history and charm, has become a beacon for new businesses, residents, and visitors alike. With the introduction of the "2030 Plan," Covington is on a trajectory to foster growth while maintaining its beloved small-town feel.

 Ashley Culicchia Cash, a local who returned to her roots after a decade, was immediately struck by the transformation of downtown Covington. "The growth has been unbelievable," she remarks. "There's more shopping, food, and fine dining. Even the streets seem bigger and wider. There's so much more to do here than all those years ago." It's a sentiment echoed by many locals and visitors, who have voted it the best small town in Louisiana in the annual South's Best Awards.

Covington's charm is perhaps best experienced on foot. The historic downtown area, where Cash has set up her event-planning business, The Graceful Host Shop, is a hub of activity. Here, visitors can meander from boutique shops to wine bars to art galleries without ever needing a car. This accessibility and variety make Covington not just a place to visit, but a place to live.

Despite its proximity to the bustling city of New Orleans, just an hour's drive across Lake Pontchartrain, Covington offers a serene escape. Its layout is unique, with small public areas known as ox lots dotting the town. These historic lots, originally used by tradesmen in the 1800s, now serve as convenient parking spaces that support the town's bustling downtown commerce.

The historical richness of Covington is woven into the fabric of the town. Lisa Condrey Ward, co-owner of the Southern Hotel, emphasizes this blend of past and present, "You can't ever really place Covington just in the present without also factoring in all that its past lends. It's such a walkable, well-planned town and has a deep history of hospitality." The Southern Hotel, a centerpiece of the town, epitomizes this spirit. Since its restoration in 2014, it has become a cultural and social nexus, hosting everything from casual cocktails to lavish weddings.

The burgeoning business scene in Covington is equally impressive. New enterprises and top-notch restaurants continue to populate the area, supported by enthusiastic local and external investors. BRG Hospitality, for example, is expanding its presence with new culinary ventures, reinforcing the town's reputation as a burgeoning gastronomic hotspot.

Covington is not only a haven for business and pleasure but also a place of natural beauty and community activities. The Tammany Trace, a scenic biking and hiking path, invites residents and tourists to explore the lush landscapes. The town also celebrates its heritage and community spirit with events like the Covington Three Rivers Art Festival, attracting artists and visitors from across the region.

Moreover, Covington's strategic plan for the future is focused on sustainability and thoughtful growth. This plan aims to bolster the local economy while preserving the quality of life that residents cherish. With community input and a clear vision, Covington is set to thrive as a model small town that balances progress with tradition.

In summary, Covington represents the quintessential small-town American dream, with its blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and a forward-thinking community. Whether you're looking for a place to start a business, raise a family, or simply enjoy life, Covington offers a compelling argument to call it home. As it continues to evolve and grow, this little town on the North Shore remains a treasure worth discovering.

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Essential Steps to Securing Mortgage Preapproval

Embarking on the journey of purchasing a home is a significant milestone that requires meticulous planning and preparation. One of the crucial initial steps in this process is obtaining mortgage preapproval. This stage not only gives prospective buyers a clear understanding of their financial standing but also strengthens their position when making an offer on a home. Here's a detailed guide on how to enhance your chances of getting preapproved and smoothly transition into homeownership.

1. Understand Your Debt-to-Income Ratio
Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) is a critical factor that lenders evaluate during the preapproval process. It measures the percentage of your monthly income that goes towards paying debts. "It's essential to understand your DTI as it directly influences the loan amount you might qualify for," explains Realtor Kyle Ebersole. Most lenders prefer a DTI of 30% to 56%. Reducing your monthly debt obligations can improve your DTI, making you more attractive to lenders.

2. Avoid New Debts
In the months leading up to your home purchase, it's wise to avoid taking on any new debts. Large purchases on credit, such as buying a car or furniture, can significantly impact your DTI and reduce the amount you might be preapproved for. "Even a $100 monthly payment could lessen your preapproval amount by thousands of dollars," Ebersole cautions.

3. Boost Your Savings
Accumulating substantial savings is twofold; it covers closing costs and increases the down payment you can afford, potentially reducing the need for private mortgage insurance (PMI). "Aim to save at least 20% of the home's purchase price as a down payment," advises Ryan Nelson, founder and CEO of Rental Real Estate.

4. Early Discussions with Lenders
Engaging with a lender well in advance of your intended purchase can provide ample time to address any credit issues, budget appropriately, and save for a down payment. Mason Whitehead, a branch manager at Churchill Mortgage, recommends starting conversations with a lender as early as a year before you plan to buy a home.

5. Maintain Financial Stability
During the preapproval process, it's vital to keep your financial situation stable. Avoid any major purchases, opening new credit accounts, or job changes as these can alter your financial profile and impact your preapproval status.

6. Gather Necessary Financial Documents
Being organized can expedite the preapproval process. Prepare and arrange all required documents such as pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements. "Having these documents ready can make the process smoother and quicker," Nelson points out.

7. Check Your Credit Score
Knowing your credit score is pivotal before applying for mortgage preapproval. It determines the interest rate you are eligible for and the loan terms. Obtain a free credit report from the major credit bureaus annually to check for any inaccuracies or areas for improvement.

8. Understand Different Levels of Preapproval
It's important to understand the difference between prequalification and preapproval. Prequalification is a basic review of your finances, while preapproval involves a more thorough check and is more appealing to sellers. "Strive for full preapproval, as it demonstrates to sellers that your financial backing is secure," Whitehead explains.

9. Be Prepared for a Home Appraisal
After obtaining preapproval, the next step is usually a home appraisal. This assesses the value of the property you intend to buy, which can affect the final loan amount and terms.

By following these steps, prospective homeowners can not only enhance their chances of getting preapproved but also position themselves as credible buyers in the competitive real estate market. Understanding the nuances of mortgage preapproval and preparing accordingly can lead to a more informed, and ultimately successful, home-buying experience.

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