Is Recession Preparing a New Breed of Survivalist? [Survival Today

Yahoo ran an interesting article this morning indicating a rise in the number of survivalist communities cropping up around the country. I have been wondering myself how much of the recent energy crisis is causing people to do things like stockpile food and water, grow their own vegetables, etc. Could it be that there are many people out there stockpiling and their increased buying has caused food prices to increase? It’s an interesting theory, but I believe increased food prices have more to do with rising fuel prices as cost-to-market costs have increased and grocers are simply passing those increases along to the consumer. A recent stroll through the camping section of Wal-Mart did give me pause - what kinds of things are prudent to have on hand in the event of a worldwide shortage of food and/or fuel? Survivalist in Training

I’ve been interested in survival stories since I was a kid, which is funny considering I grew up in a city. Maybe that’s why the idea of living off the land appealed to me. My grandfather and I frequently took camping trips along the Blue Ridge Parkway and around the Smoky Mountains. Looking back, some of the best times we had were when we stayed at campgrounds without electricity hookups, because it forced us to use what we had to get by. My grandfather was well-prepared with a camp stove and lanterns (which ran off propane), and when the sun went to bed we usually did along with it. We played cards for entertainment, and in the absence of televisions, games, etc. we shared many great conversations. Survivalist in the Neighborhood

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/highgrocery.html

Practical Ways To Fight High Grocery Prices

1. Learn to cook intelligently. Invest in a good, inexpensive cookbook.

2. Plan all meals in advance.

3. Cook only as much food as your family will consume at each meal.

4. Cook slowly. Do not overcook. This prevents vitamin & mineral losses.

5. Save and make use of all leftovers. Start collecting leftover recipes.

6. Serve smaller portions. Eat less, stay slimmer...and healthier.

7. Eliminate fancy, fattening, expensive desserts.

8. Give children smaller portions and teach them not to waste food.

9. Avoid “fad” and junk foods consisting of empty calories.

10. Cut down on all sweets, white flour products and fatty foods.

11. Stop smoking. Drink juices instead of alcoholic beverages.

12. Don’t drive many miles to save a few pennies at a certain store.

13. Use powdered milk instead of fresh milk.

14. Beat high coffee prices by drinking tea - and save about half.

15. Take your lunch to work.

16. Watch “open dating” on perishables and avoid buying outdated, spoiled food.

17. Become a “comparison shopper”. Buy “specials” from several stores.

18. If you don’t have one, invest in a new or good used freezer.

19. Read labels. Remember that ingredients are listed in order by weight.

20. Purchase only what you will use and eat everything you buy.

21. Visit your grocer as LEAST often as possible.

22. Trade money-saving recipes with friends, relatives, neighbors.

23. When grocery shopping, carry a list and stick to it!

24. Shop only on a FULL stomach. Never when hungry.

25. Never take children grocery shopping with you.

26. Clip, save and use “store coupons”. Trade those you don’t need.

27. Watch for grocery store “sale” ads and shop the store’s specials.

28. Watch the cash register when checking out. Errors can be costly.

29. Buy your favorite foods in the largest size containers available.

30. Buy cheaper “store” or “house” brands.

31. Avoid the supermarket’s “gourmet” section.

32. Stock up on genuine bargains.

33. Ignore advertisements for “new” or “improved” convenience products.

34. Avoid all convenience foods and items with long lists of additives.

35. Stock up on “in season” foods.

36. Pocket big savings by using more poultry in your menu.

37. Avoid non-nutritious foods, junk foods, sugary foods, soft drinks, etc.

38. Dine out less often. When you do, take home leftovers in a “doggie bag”.

39. Grow some of your own herbs, fruits, vegetables.
40. Avoid convenience stores. They’re more expensive.

41. Ask store personnel to steer you to the “best buys”.

42. Buy your favorite foods by the case and ask for discounts.

43. Make your own soups, bakery goods, ice cream, yogurt, cole slaw, jams, etc.

44. Buy unsliced cheese and sandwich meats. Slice them yourself and save.

45. Look for damaged merchandise and ask for price reductions: dented cans, crushed cartons, outdated bakery goods, bruised produce, etc.

46. Buy ONLY food items from your grocery. Buy non-food items elsewhere.

47. Serve a balanced diet and you won’t have to spend on vitamins.

48. Buy “in season” produce from local farmer’s fields, gardens, orchards.

49. Compare prices of foods in various forms - canned, frozen, fresh and dried. Buy the least expensive.

50. Observe “unit pricing”. Compare weights before deciding.

51. Before checking out, weed out the items you don’t need.

52. Limit snacks at home to popped corn, fruit & vegetables.

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/tk-kitchenbudget.html

Save Money in the Kitchen

BY TAWRA KELLAM & JILL COOPER

For many people, cutting back on their grocery budgets can be an overwhelming experience. They know they’re spending too much, but don’t know where to begin to cut. Often, they fear that they will deprive themselves and their children if they become frugal. The good news is that there are ways to have your cake, eat it and save money at the same time. The whole secret is to start slowly. There are countless ways you can cut, but if you need to, target just one thing at a time - you will still be saving money if you do only one thing. If you are a frugal beginner, try these simple suggestions from my cookbook, Not Just Beans, (www.notjustbeans.com) for saving on your food bill:

~Cooking frugally is like changing your diet. You need to learn gradually how to save money and cook frugally. Don’t expect that you will get your food bill down to $150 for four people in the first month if you are spending $600 a month right now.

~Try cutting just $25.00 or $50.00 a month. Even if you cut back only $50.00 a month, you will save $600.00 a year. If you save just $1.00 a day that is $365.00 a year. You can then apply that $365.00 a year to paying off your credit cards. At 21% interest, you will save over $70 a year. This will eventually cause a snowball effect since the more you pay off, the less you pay to interest. When you pay less to interest, you have more each month to apply to paying off your overall debt. This means that as you pay off the debt, the rate that you can pay it off increases.

~Before you shop, take a tour through your pantry and your refrigerator. Be organized! Don’t buy what’s already hiding in your kitchen.

~If you’re a fan of coupons, remember this: It’s not what you save, it’s what you spend. If you save 30 cents on something you wouldn’t ordinarily buy anyway, you haven’t really saved anything.

~A typical fruit item is significantly larger than one serving. Most people would be just as happy eating a small apple as eating a large one — so buy smaller fruits! You will save money by the pound.

~This month, try two meatless meals a week (or one, if you’re a diehard meat fan).

~Make simple meals. One-dish meals can contain your meat, your vegetable and your bread.

To order Not Just Beans, 50 Years of Frugal Family Favorites visit or send check or money order for $14.95 to: Not Just Beans, P.O. Box 4252, Wichita, KS 67204.

For many people, cutting back on their grocery budgets can be an overwhelming experience.

Most people don’t think they can live the frugal life and still be comfortable. I feed my family of four on $125 month. Over five years, when my husband earned an average of $22,000 per year, we paid off $20,000 debt. When cutting your grocery bill and paying off debt, it’s the little things that add up. If you are a frugal beginner, try these simple suggestions from my cookbook, Not Just Beans, (www.notjustbeans.com) for saving on your food bill:

~Drink water for your meals.

*If your family is used to drinking milk, juice or pop for every meal then start by cutting juice from one meal or snack a day and drinking only water. After you get used to this, cut from another meal until you drink only water for meals and a glass of juice or milk at snack time.

*You can also try allowing one glass of juice at meal times and then water after it is gone.

* You save over $500.00 a year by cutting just one glass of juice per person per day for a family of four.

~Don’t assume homemade is cheaper. If you get a VERY GOOD deal on chocolate chips and ingredients for candies, it is cheaper to make them than buying them pre-made. Make sure you do the calculations, though! If you don’t purchase them on sale, homemade candies can be more expensive than candies purchased at the store.

~ Stop wasting food. Give young children small portions. They can always have more if they are still hungry. Give them a half glass of juice and a half sandwich so you don’t waste uneaten food. Put food in the refrigerator right after the meal so it doesn’t spoil. Use leftovers for lunches, in other dishes or frozen in one portion sizes for a quick meal.

~Don’t buy everything at one store.

Prices vary greatly from one store to the next. Go to different stores to buy only their sale items. You will save more than the cost of your gas. It usually only takes half an hour to 45 minutes per store to get the items that are on sale including driving time. If you save a minimum of $20-$30 per trip, it is like “earning” $40-$60 an hour. If I save $60 spending one hour going to two different stores, it is five extra hours my husband does not have to work for us to pay for that same food purchased at the regular price. I would rather have him home with us.

~ Remember cooking frugally is a mind set. You have to change your cooking and eating habits. Don’t get discouraged if one idea fails. Try another one.

~Stop buying things like toaster pastries and breakfast bars for breakfast. Eat oatmeal, pancakes, granola and fruit instead.

~Don’t assume that bulk is cheaper. Compare cost by the ounce or pound.

Granola Bars

¾ cup brown sugar
½ cup sugar
½ cup margarine, softened
2 Tbsp. honey or corn syrup
½ tsp. vanilla
1 egg
1 cup flour
¼ tsp. salt
½ tsp. baking soda
1 ½ cups oatmeal
1 ¼ cups crispy rice cereal, or crushed bran flakes, corn flakes or crushed graham crackers
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 cup chocolate chips*
In a large bowl, cream sugars and margarine until fluffy. Add honey, vanilla and egg. Mix well. Blend in flour, cinnamon, baking soda and salt. Stir in remaining ingredients. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 pan. Bake at 350< for 20-25 minutes. To microwave: Press ingredients into a microwave-safe dish. Microwave on medium power for 7-9 minutes. Rotate dish every three minutes. Bars will firm as they stand. Cool and cut into bars. Save the crumbs for yogurt or ice cream topping. Makes 24 bars.

*The following may be used in addition to or to replace chocolate chips:

1 cup coconut

½ cup creamy or chunky peanut butter

½ cup nuts

½-1 cup raisins, dried apples, apricots

½ cup fruit preserves

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Author:

If you would like free tips and recipes from Not Just Beans: 50 Years of Frugal Family Favorites, please visit our website at www.notjustbeans.com.

To order Not Just Beans, 50 Years of Frugal Family Favorites visit or send check or money order for $14.95 to: Not Just Beans, P.O. Box 4252, Wichita, KS 67204.

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/dhu_sinus.html

Sinus Headaches and Natural Remedies,/div

by David H. Urmann

It is important for people to know the risk factors, diagnosis and natural treatments of sinus headaches. This will allow them to identify the best essential oils for sinus headache aromatherapy.

Sinus headaches are often experienced by people who suffer sinusitis or inflamed sinus. It is prone to be experienced by people with:

• Asthma or hay fever history

• Nasal augmentation (nodules) - these are small grape-sized polyps found on top of the nose. This condition leads to a narrower nasal cavity thus forming mucous.

• Mold, pollen, smoke, and dust mite allergies

• A frail immune system or immunity problems

• A state that affects the way mucus moves inside the upper respiratory system, like cystic fibrosis.

• Constant colds

• Ear/ tooth/ tonsil infections

• Facial injuries that affect sinuses like nose deformities

• Alterations or changes in temperature like swimming or climbing in elevated altitudes

If the patient is not sure whether he/she has a sinus headache, The best way is to consult a physician. The following procedures are performed:

• Physical examination which includes checking on nasal discharge and congestion.
• X ray tests or transillumination thru nasal endoscopy (light shining in to the sinuses)
• MRI
• CT Scan

Natural remedies for sinus headache include:

• Cold towel compress in forehead area or alternate with hot compress and hot footbath
• Eating spicy foods like Cajun recipes
• The use of Chinese herbals like Magnolia flower, angelica, mint and chrysanthemum
• Air moisturizers like steam vaporizers
• Light head and neck exercises
• Relaxation techniques and get enough rest or sleep
• The use of saline nasal spray to loosen mucous
• Acupressure techniques on the nostril sides
• Aromatherapy or the use of essential oils. This procedure involves mixture of aromatic oil and carrier oils. These oils can be use as massage oils, bath oils or can be placed in cotton balls as inhalators.

The following are list of essential oils:

- Lavender oil - is the safest and gentlest oil.
- Peppermint oil works best on sinus headaches. It is effectively used for chest and neck massage. It is refreshing and can be used at daytime.
- Oregano oil is an anti fungal and anti bacterial oil used for sinus treatments.
- Eucalyptus oil is the most versatile oil and very effective for respiratory infection treatments.
- Tea tree oil is an antifungal, healing oil used for sinus relief.
- Ginger oil is a mint oil.
- Wintergreen oil has methyl salicylate great for massages.
- Marjoram oil is helps alleviate sinus headaches.
- Thyme oil is another essential oil used mostly in aromatherapy healing bath
- Rosemary oil is another incensier and essential oil for sinus relief

Alternative Therapy

• Acupuncture

This is part of traditional Chinese medicine. It involves inserting metal needles at the pain area thru hands or electric signals. This aims to stabilize serotonin and release endorphin. Some acupuncturists also perform moxibustion. This includes the use of burnt herb mugwort.

• Chiropractic

Well trained chiropractic alleviates pain to improve sinus drainage. There are no existing studies conducted however some people are already practicing it.

• Mind and Body Techniques

This includes yoga, meditation and biofeedback exercises. Some of the popular techniques are the Pranayama and Yoga Asanas. This is a combination of the physical movements and breathing exercises of the Yoga practice.

• Homeopathic remedies

The use of fast, easy and convenient ready made all natural tablets. Some popular products are sinus busters and boiron.

The Author:

For more information on Sinus headaches and Sinus Medication please visit our website.

Source: www.isnare.com

[If you don’t have the Essential Oils, use the regular herb in your kitchens....granny]

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/gf_anxiety.html

Different Herbs for Anxiety Treatment

By: Greg Frost

Anxiety disorders are a common problem, affecting approximately 20 million adults and children in America. Anxiety is a common emotion consisting of uncertainty and worry faced by many, whilst anxiety disorders are when such fears are experienced irrationally. There are many treatments available, ranging from medication to therapy and alternative treatments. One treatment is through using natural herbal supplements.

Natural herbs are less costly than medication, and consist of herbs, vitamins and botanicals. They can be taken individually, or with other supplements, but it is best to first consult your doctor before deciding on natural herbs as a treatment for anxiety disorders. They also have the advantage of having no side effects, as compared to medications which can result in side effects such as nausea. Below are some common herbs used in anxiety disorders treatment.

1. Passion Flower

This is a natural plant that is used to treat anxiety, amongst other ailments. Its has unique calming properties, and can also reduce body tremors from fear. It promotes better sleep, and can act as a painkiller. It also contains anti depressants, and is used for high blood pressure and epilepsy.

2. Lavender

This is a more popular alternative than the passion flower, and is also known for its calming properties. It is also one of the more effective treatments for panic attacks, and is a tonic for the nervous system.

3. Lemon Balm

This is used to calm the digestive and nervous system, and also reduces blood pressure. It is uncertain if used alone, lemon balm is effective for treating anxiety attacks. It is usually taken with Valerian, Chamomile or Passion flower.

4. Kava

It is an effective tranquilizer, and whilst it is not an addictive substance, research suggests that it may be linked to liver problems.

5. Valerian

This is another natural plant used for treating anxiety. It also promotes better sleep, allowing for the body to rest and recuperate.

6. Chamomile

Chamomile flower leaves are used to make tea, and is a natural alternative for treating anxiety. It also reduces fever, encourages sleep and enhances the body’s metabolism.

7. Dandelion

The roots and leaves are used to treat the body’s internal systems, and through it, provide relief for some of the symptoms of anxiety. It is commonly used in salads and tea, and can also be used as a substitute for coffee.

There are many natural treatments available, and herbs have been used for treating illnesses for centuries. However, do keep in mind that it is not a quick fix, and can only alleviate the symptoms of anxiety attacks. It is advisable to seek out behavioral or cognitive therapy so as to eliminate the root of the problem causing anxiety attacks.

The Author

Greg Frost is an authority figure in the Anxiety Treatment field and director of http://www.attackanxiety.org/, a company that provides a variety of Anxiety Attacks information to assist people in treatment

source: articlecity.com

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/rf_therapeutic.html

Flowers Can Be Therapeutic

By: Rosie Flores

Besides the myriads of beautiful things that flowers are known for, they are also have a therapeutic effect on us. Flowers just make you feel good, and you like having flowers around as much as possible. Flowers have the power to lift your spirits.

A thing of beauty is joy forever and flowers surpass everything in beauty. A room full of aromatic flowers makes you feel good and your stress seems to dissolve in the wonderful scent of those flowers. Giving and receiving flowers has a charm beyond compare. You just feel you’re on cloud nine with flowers around you.

Until now there was not any scientific reason or research to prove that flowers could actually affect your mood and make you happy. However now there is a scientific backing to the claims about the flower power. The researchers at Rutgers University after doing a 10-month study came to a conclusion that there is a linkage between flowers and moods and this research could prove to be the foundation stone of a whole new paradigm in therapy. This has now led to emergence of a new form of therapy- the flowers therapy.

The researchers have discovered that there is an instant effect on a person’s mood when you receive flowers. You break into a smile involuntarily irrespective of your age or your temperament.

Even those who were feeling low and were in a depressed mood felt good almost immediately after receiving a gift of flowers. No wonder, we have the tradition to take flowers when we go to see someone in the hospital. Flowers have a healing touch. They make people feel more optimistic and look at the brighter side of life.

Science hasn’t discovered anything new. You’ve always known this about flowers from personal experience. Science has only strengthened your opinion with solid proof. Flowers make us happy and remove the tension making us more creative. In return, the least you can do is take good care of them when you receive them so that they’ll last a long time.

How do you keep flowers fresh and make them last? First, keep them in a cool spot, away from direct sunlight and far from appliances like televisions and computers that give off heat. Secondly, mix the flower food with water exactly as the instructions say. Next, remove any leaves below the waterline in your vase. Also, it’s a good idea to re-cut the stems of the flowers to help increase water uptake. Finally, always remove any flowers or leaves when they die so that the remaining flowers keep fresh and look great.

The Author

Rosie Flores is the administrator of GT Flowers, your source for your flower needs. Find your bloomers at: www.gtflowers.com

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/infections.html

Protect Your Health From Infections

BY Linda Patterson, R.N., M.S.N.

An infection is the growth of unwanted bacteria, viruses, or other one-celled organisms in the body. Infections interfere with the normal body functions. Once an infection becomes established, you should contact a physician about possible medical treatment.

Viruses and bacteria are everywhere, but they do not always cause infections. An infection happens when a disease-causing organism enters a body system (e.g., respiratory, reproductive, or digestive system) where conditions allow it to live and multiply. Whether or not this happens depends on how the organism enters the body, what kind and how many viruses and bacteria are contacted, and the health of the person involved.

Reduce Infections

Since viruses and bacteria that cause infections cannot be seen, you may ignore them or fear the illnesses they can cause. A more effective approach is to try to increase the ability of your body to resist infection, avoid the activities that make infection more likely, and reduce the contact with bacteria and viruses, whenever possible, by using common sense precautions.

Maximize Your Body’s Resistance To Viruses And Bacteria

Regularly review your immunizations with a health-care provider. You do not need to be an expert on immunizations... you do need to ask for a review of your immunizations regularly, even if your health provider doesn’t mention it. Never assume you or any dependent family member have had all the shots.

Carefully use antibiotics and only after asking your doctor about alternative treatments. Find out what the likelihood is that you will heal without antibiotics. If you reach a mutual decision to use antibiotics, be sure you find out how to take them correctly. Frequent or ineffective use of antibiotics can reduce your body’s defenses against later infection.

Take care of your body defenses by eating a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, getting adequate rest and relaxation, and exercising moderately on a regular basis. Prompt attention to skin irritations, cuts, and scrapes will also maintain your most effective barrier against viruses and bacteria.

Avoid Activities That Make Infections More Likely

Avoid sharing personal items, such as razors, drinking glasses, cosmetics, manicure equipment, pierced earrings, medical equipment or needles, combs, brushes, towels and washcloths, hats, and toothbrushes. Sharing these items may also share lice, fungus infections, and assorted bacteria and viruses.

Develop habits that discourage the spread of bacteria and viruses. For example:

Avoid touching the face, especially the eyes, nose, and mouth, with dirty hands.

Use tissues carefully, and dispose of them in the trash after a single use.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or clean hands when you sneeze or cough...the velocity of a cough can be 60 miles or more per hour.

Use effective housekeeping to avoid infection. Focus housekeeping on your laundry, kitchen, and bathroom. Use the cleaning solutions described in the section on Common Sense Precautions. Keep toothbrushes away from the toilet, and disinfect or replace toothbrushes regularly. To disinfect a toothbrush, run it through a dishwasher cycle or soak it in a mild solution of 1 tablespoon bleach solution in 2 gallons of water, and rinse well. Also use this mild solution of bleach to disinfect kitchen counters, sinks, and cutting boards in the kitchen. Eating utensils can be rinsed in hot water or washed in the dishwasher. If you want to avoid the chances of infections even more, change towels, pillowcases, washcloths, socks, and underwear frequently, and wash them with a disinfectant for laundry.

Avoid risky sexual and drug use behaviors that expose you to deadly diseases. If you are not sure if your behaviors are risky, refer to Extension Publication 1951, HIV: Plain Talk, or ask for information from your health provider, the local department of health, or a substance abuse/chemical dependency treatment center. You can also call the Mississippi State University Extension Service in your county, or the U.S. Public Service AIDS Hotline at 1-800-342-2437, 1-800-344-7432 (Spanish) or 1-800-343-7889 (hearing impaired).

Use Common Sense Precautions

Body fluids that may be infected with bacteria or viruses include blood, male and female sexual fluids, saliva, vomit, urine, and feces. There is a high risk of infection with HIV (AIDS virus) and Hepatitis B, when infected body fluids enter the body through sexual contact or shared drug equipment. Although the risk is remote with other types of contact with these infected body fluids, experts do recommend some precautions. Some of these precautions are easily adapted for daily life and make good sense because they also protect you from other viruses and bacteria.

Wear gloves during cleaning of body fluids or dirty items; bandage any cuts or scrapes before putting on gloves. Remove the gloves without touching the dirty side, and wash hands after removing the gloves. Disposable latex gloves are best; reusable gloves may spread infection.

Take care with trash; never push down the trash with hands or feet, or reach into the trash. Empty the trash onto a newspaper to search for missing items with eyes instead of hands. Dispose of sharp items in a puncture-resistant container.

Clean up body fluids and bathrooms with an EPA-approved germicide labeled “tuberculocidal,” or use a 1:100 solution of bleach (1 tablespoon bleach per cup of water or 1/4 cup bleach to a gallon of water) after using disposable gloves and towels to clean any body fluids that can be seen. Dispose of the towels and gloves in a plastic bag, and soak mops in a bleach solution for 10 minutes after use. Be alert to the hazards of bleach or other chemicals.

Wash and dry hands thoroughly after using the toilet, cleaning jobs, and before eating or preparing food. Excessive hand washing may be harmful if skin irritation occurs, but regular washing with a mild soap is helpful. The use of an anti-bacterial soap can reduce bacteria and viruses, but the decision must be balanced against the risk of skin irritation.

Protecting your health and the health of those around you depends on many factors that may seem overwhelming when they are discussed at the same time. Chances are that most of these precautions are a routine part of your life. Other strategies may be new. As with most life changes, practice will make it all seem simple. If you avoid even an occasional illness by using the tips mentioned, life will seem that much nicer.

The Author

Linda Patterson, R.N., M.S.N., Extension Health Education Specialist . Extension Service of Mississippi State University. For further information visit http://msucares.com/health/health04/index.html

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/tj_cooktips.html

Simple Substitutions for Common Ingredients

By: Thomas Jorgensen

Even the most accomplished and well organised cooks sometimes go to the cupboard and find that whatever they needed desperately and immediately is not there. Some of us live close to a grocery store and we can nip out, whilst for others it can be quite a challenge. Below are a few very common ingredients for which there are substitutes.

Some of the most commonly used ingredients have very simple substitutions available when you are in a bind. One teaspoon of baking powder can be replaced by 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda plus 5/8 teaspoon cream of tartar or 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda plus 1/2 cup of buttermilk. One cup of butter can be substituted with 7/8 cup of shortening or 1 cup of margarine. Oil is not an exact substitute for butter especially if butter is needed in baking products.

It’s difficult to always stock all types of sugar but there are alternatives that you can choose from. for one cup of light brown sugar, use one cup of white sugar and one teaspoon of molasses and for one cup of dark sugar use one cup of white sugar and one tablespoon of molasses. Instead of one cup of white sugar you could either use one and three quarters of a cup of powdered (confectioners’) sugar or one cup of packed brown sugar. If you need a sweet liquid like corn syrup you could use one cup of sugar plus a quarter of a cup of liquid or honey.

If you need chocolate you’ll find that one ounce of is the same as three tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa and one tablespoon of fat. Instead of one tablespoon of cornstarch you could use two tablespoons of flour; instead of one tablespoon of flour (for thickening) try half a tablespoon of cornstarch; and instead of one cup sifted flour (for cooking) you could be really radical and try one and a half cups of bread crumbs or one cup of rolled oats. Lastly, instead of one cup of shortening you could use one cup and two tablespoons of butter or margarine.

If you want to add flavour to your meals with spices you can try stocking dried herbs and spices rather than fresh. For instance, instead of one clove of garlic you could substitute one eighth of a teaspoon of garlic powder or one teaspoon of chopped garlic. Instead of one teaspoon of dry mustard you could use one tablespoon of prepared mustard; one tablespoon of onion powder is the same as either one medium, or four tablespoons of freshly chopped onion.

Remember that some of the best recipes around have been ‘cooked’ up by people desperately trying to cover their tracks; so the advice would be ‘be bold, be daring, but use your initiative!’

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Thomas Jorgensen is the editor and webmaster of “Cooking Flair” www.cookingflair.com a premier cooking and cooking school information site on the Internet. For more information following this article please pay a visit.
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The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/nutritionwise.html

Weekly column for the week of: March 3, 2009

Nutrition Wise

by Karen Collins, MS, RD, CDN

For American Institute for Cancer Research

Q:Some sources refer to Yerba Maté as a risk factor for cancer but others say it is very healthful. What’s up?

A: Yerba Maté, from the plant of the same name, is popular in parts of South America, where it is consumed through a metal straw as a scalding hot beverage. It’s spreading rapidly in the United States and Europe either as a tea or as an ingredient in foods and dietary supplements. Yerba Maté (also simply called maté) is high in antioxidant compounds called polyphenols. In laboratory studies, maté has protected DNA exposed to damaging chemicals and enhanced DNA repair. However, analysis also shows that both the leaves and hot or cold infusions made from them contain high levels of apparently cancer-causing compounds called PAHs. Population studies have linked maté to increased incidence of cancers of the mouth and throat. But it’s not clear how much of the link seen is related to alcohol and smoking. In a review of the research, the 2007 AICR report identifies the primary concern of maté as a probable link to increased risk of esophageal cancer. But the report attributes this risk mainly to damage from the scalding hot temperatures at which it is traditionally consumed; such heat can lead to inflammation and leave cells vulnerable to cancer development. We need further research before we will know whether maté served at safer temperatures increases, decreases or does not change risk of cancer.

Q:How much weight will I lose if I switch all my sweets and snack foods to low fat or sugar-free versions?

A: I’d reconsider relying on this as a strategy for weight loss. These products aren’t necessarily any lower in calories because producers may add other ingredients to make up for the change in taste or texture when they take out fat or sugar. Believing that they are “diet foods” could even set you up for trouble. Studies suggest that when we think a food is healthier or less fattening, we tend to eat larger amounts. The harder, but healthier and more long-lasting change is to eat less processed sweets and snack foods. Try replacing one or two daily servings of processed snacks with fruit, raw veggies, a small handful of nuts or some other nutrient-supplying food.

Q: What’s the difference between kefir and yogurt?

A: Both are cultured dairy products, but whereas yogurt’s cultures are all bacteria, kefir (pronounced kef-EAR) is produced with more different bacteria cultures plus yeast. Both are good sources of protein and calcium. Yogurt tends to be about 20 calories per serving higher than kefir with comparable fat and sugar levels. But the biggest difference in calorie content is not between these two products, but between products made from whole, low fat or nonfat milk. Both yogurt and kefir also take major calorie jumps from “plain” to “fruit” versions, which usually contain added sugar too (unless an artificial sweetener is used). You may hear claims that kefir is a potent anti-cancer weapon that can slow growth of cancer cells and boost levels of immune cells that defend against cancer. But that’s based on preliminary research and has not been confirmed in humans. Both products offer the benefits of probiotic cultures that may promote digestive health. Both make a great base for smoothies and cold fruit soups or a topping for cereal or fruit. Choose whichever has the taste and texture you like, keeping a watch on sugar and saturated fat content. Nutrition Wise Archives 2009 The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) is the cancer charity that fosters research on the relationship of nutrition, physical activity and weight management to cancer risk, interprets the scientific literature and educates the public about the results. It has contributed more than $86 million for innovative research conducted at universities, hospitals and research centers across the country. AICR has published two landmark reports that interpret the accumulated research in the field, and is committed to a process of continuous review. AICR also provides a wide range of educational programs to help millions of Americans learn to make dietary changes for lower cancer risk. Its award-winning New American Plate program is presented in brochures, seminars and on its website, www.aicr.org. AICR is a member of the World Cancer Research Fund International.

[I never heard of this fly, before. granny]

http://emergency112.blogspot.com/

2009-03-11 04:10:21 - Biological Hazard - Australia

EDIS CODE: BH-20090311-20829-AUS
Date & Time: 2009-03-11 04:10:21 [UTC]
Area: Australia, State of Western Australia, , Pilbara
!!! WARNING !!!

The name of Hazard: Horse-fly (Diptera) Invasion
Damage level: Moderate (Level 2)

Not confirmed information!
Description:

Health experts have warned that WA is facing an emerging public health risk from a species of march fly that has bitten several mine workers in the Pilbara in recent weeks, causing potentially fatal anaphylactic shock.

The allergic reactions are understood to have affected at least three workers at Rio Tinto’s Brockman 4 mine site near Tom Price, forcing them to seek treatment for breathing problems at the town’s hospital. In at least one case the worker had to be flown to Perth for treatment.

March flies, also known as horse flies, are a common pest in the South-West and have bigger than normal bodies and eyes compared with other flies. They can inflict a painful bite.

While there are 200 relatively harmless species, a smaller brown species that inhabits the Pilbara and Kimberley can cause fever, wheezing and in severe cases anaphylaxis when the saliva injected by the fly prevents the person’s blood from clotting, bringing on an allergic reaction.

Rio Tinto confirmed yesterday there had been a big increase in the number of its mine workers bitten by march flies in the past month, with three workers from Brockman 4 suffering anaphylactic reactions that resulted in them being admitted to hospital. The company had since taken measures such as the use of giant fly traps and spraying to reduce the number of march flies, and fewer people were being bitten.

Employees had also been advised to take precautions such as wearing long-sleeved clothes, glasses and gloves. A Health Department spokeswoman said there had been reports of march fly bites causing anaphylactic reactions in the Pilbara since 2006. She said it was difficult to control the numbers of the insects because of the big area involved.

Posted:2009-03-11 04:10:21 [UTC]

News from CPSC
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 10, 2009
Release # 09-145

Firm’s Recall Hotline: (866) 533-9817
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Maytag Recalls Refrigerators Due to Fire Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product.

Name of product: Maytag(r), Jenn-Air(r), Amana(r), Admiral(r), Magic Chef(r), Performa by Maytag(r) and Crosley(r) brand refrigerators

Units: About 1.6 million

Manufacturer: Maytag Corp., of Newton, Iowa

Hazard: An electrical failure in the relay, the component that turns on the refrigerator’s compressor, can cause overheating and pose a serious fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Maytag has received 41 reports of refrigerator relay ignition, including 16 reports of property damage ranging from smoke damage to extensive kitchen damage.

Description: The recall includes certain Maytag(r), Jenn-Air(r), Amana(r), Admiral(r), Magic Chef(r), Performa by Maytag(r) and Crosley(r) brand side by side and top freezer refrigerators. The affected refrigerators were manufactured in black, bisque, white and stainless steel. They have model and serial numbers printed on a label located on the top middle or left upper side of the refrigerator liner and have the following model and serial number combinations:

Type: Serial Numbers ENDING with (AND Model Numbers BEGINNING with)

Side by Side Refrigerators:
AA, AC, AE, AG, AJ, AL, AN, AP, AR,
AT, AV, AX, CA, CC, CE, CG, CJ, CL,
ZB, ZD, ZF, ZH, ZK, ZM, ZQ, ZS, ZU,
ZW, ZY, ZZ
(ARS, CS, JC, JS, MS, MZ, PS)

Top Freezer Refrigerators:
AA, AC, AE, AG, AJ, AL, AN, AP, AR,
AT, AV, AX, ZK, ZM, ZQ, ZS, ZU, ZW,
ZY, ZZ
(AT, CT, MT, PT)

Refrigerators with freezers on the bottom are not included in this recall.

Sold at: Department and appliance stores and by homebuilders nationwide from January 2001 through January 2004 for between about $350 and $1600.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should immediately contact Maytag to determine if their refrigerator is included in the recall and to schedule a free in-home repair. Consumers should not return the refrigerator to the retailer where it was purchased.

Consumer Contact: For more information, contact Maytag toll-free at (866) 533-9817 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.repair.maytag.com

To see this recall on CPSC’s web site, including pictures of the recall product, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09145.html

US-CERT Current Activity

New Attack Vectors for Adobe JBIG2 Vulnerability

Original release date: March 10, 2009 at 4:52 pm
Last revised: March 10, 2009 at 4:52 pm

US-CERT is aware of public reports of two new attack vectors for a
vulnerability affecting Adobe Reader and Acrobat. This vulnerability
is due to a buffer overflow condition that exists in the way Adobe
Acrobat Reader handles JBIG2 Streams.

When Adobe Reader is installed on a system, it adds an IFilter that
allows applications such as the Windows Indexing Service to index PDF
files. If the Windows Indexing Service processes a malicious PDF file
stored on the system, the vulnerability can be exploited. Exploitation
using this technique can require little to no user interaction.

In addition to adding an IFilter, the Adobe Acrobat and Reader
installation process adds a Windows Explorer Shell Extension. If
Windows Explorer displays a folder that contains a malicious PDF file,
the vulnerability can be exploited. Exploitation using this technique
also requires little to no user interaction.

US-CERT encourages users and administrators to incorporate the
following workarounds to help mitigate the risks:
* Locate and unregister the Adobe Reader IFilter using: regsvr32 /u
AcroRdIF.dll
* Locate and unregister the Adobe Acrobat IFilter using: regsvr32 /u
AcroIF.dll
* Disable Adobe Acrobat Windows Shell integration to help mitigate
the risk. This can be disabled by executing the following command:
regsvr32 /u
“%CommonProgramFiles%\Adobe\Acrobat\ActiveX\pdfshell.dll”

Additional information about the Adobe Reader and Acrobat JBIG2
vulnerability can be found in the Vulnerability Notes Database.

US-CERT will provide additional information as it becomes available.

Relevant Url(s):
http://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/905281

This entry is available at
http://www.us-cert.gov/current/index.html#adobe_reader_and_acrobat_vulnerability

The original page can be found on-line at http://www.pioneerthinking.com/lb_breadmaker.html

Basic White Bread

1 1/4 cups water
2 tablespoons powdered milk
2 TBSP oil (l usually use canola)
1 tsp salt
3 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1 1/4 tsp yeast

Just use the standard wet on the bottom dry on top mixing process. This is delicious with butter and honey while it is still hot.

Grain & Honey Bread

3/4 cup warm water
2 TBSP honey (liquid or melted)
2 TBSP olive oil
1 tsp salt
2 TBSP lemon juice
3 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (mixed grain flower is OK too)
1/2 cup rolled oats
2 tsps granulated yeast

Put the salt in the breadmaker first, then add all other ingredients except the yeast, oats and flour. Add the oats and flour. Make a small hole at the top of the dry ingredients for the yeast. Bake as usual.

Cheesy Buttermilk Bread

This yields a moist and tasty loaf. It also stores very well, but you’ll probably finish it before that even matters!

1 and 1/8 cups buttermilk
1 tsp salt
2 TBSP sugar
.75 cup extra sharp chedder (grated)
3 cups bread flour
1.5 tsps bread machine yeast

Prepare as usual. All wet ingredients first, then the cheese, then dry ingredients, and the yeast on top.

Oat Bread

Use natural rolled oats. Just put them in a pot with boiling water, and then let them soak until they cool off. Then add the other ingredients and proceed as usual.

1 cup rolled oats
11 fl.oz. water
1/2 tsp salt
3 Tbsp brown sugar
2 Tbsp olive oil
3 cups flour
1 tsp yeast

Baking bread is a wonderfully delicious way to add great nutrition to you family’s diet. Give the recipes a try and add some flavour to your meals.

http://www.nationalterroralert.com/updates/2009/03/10/emergency-this-book-will-save-your-life/

Emergency This Book Will Save Your Life
Submitted by national on Tuesday, 10 March 2009No Comment

Emergency: This Book Will Save Your Life, a new book by author Neil Strauss was released today. The book follows the “lessons learned” by Strauss as he spent several years researching individual emergency preparedness and what to do in a worst-case scenario.

Terrorist attacks. Natural disasters. Domestic crackdowns. Economic collapse. Riots. Wars. Disease. Starvation.

What can you do when when there is no one to turn to, no one to help…. You’re on your own in a major crisis or emergency?

You can learn to be self-sufficient and survive without the system.

**I’ve started to look at the world through apocalypse eyes.** So begins Neil Strauss’s harrowing new book: his first full-length worksince the international bestseller The Game, and one of the most original-and provocative-narratives of the year.

After the last few years of violence and terror, of ethnic and religious hatred, of tsunamis and hurricanes–and now of world financial meltdown–Strauss, like most of his generation, came to the sobering realization that, even in America, anything can happen. But rather than watch helplessly, he decided to do something about it. And so he spent three years traveling through a country that’s lost its sense of safety, equipping himself with the tools necessary to save himself and his loved ones from an uncertain future.

It’s one man’s story of a dangerous world–and how to stay alive in it.

I’ll review the book within the next couple of weeks and possibly give away a few copies in an upcoming promotion on the Homeland Security Response Network site.

We’ve also added a discussion in the forum.
Available at Amazon.com

http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Public-Safety-Canada-956031.html

[This article has many hidden links in it...granny]

Public Safety Canada

Is Your Family Prepared?-GetPrepared.ca

Mar 02, 2009 10:15 ET
Minister Launches New Advertising on Emergency Preparedness

OTTAWA, ONTARIO—(Marketwire - March 2, 2009) -

NOTE TO EDITORS: A video, audio clips and photos are included with this release.

Core news facts:

- New television and Internet advertising about emergency preparedness was unveiled today by the Honourable Peter Van Loan, Minister of Public Safety.

- The advertising supports the “72 hours...Is Your Family Prepared?” social marketing campaign, designed to improve Canada’s readiness to prepare for and respond to an emergency by mobilizing families to take three practical steps:

- Know the risks in their area

- Make a family emergency plan

- Get a family emergency kit

- The television ad works backwards in time to show a family successfully coping through 72 hours of an emergency situation, thanks to having prepared an emergency kit.

- Minister Van Loan presented the television ads to a group of 60 emergency management specialists and first responders being trained at the Canadian Emergency Management College.

Quotes

The Honourable Peter Van Loan, Minister of Public Safety: “Preparing for an emergency is a responsibility we all share. Having a plan and an emergency kit to cope with the first 72 hours of an emergency can make a world of difference in keeping a family safe and comfortable, and helps first responders to focus their resources on those in urgent need.” Click for Audio File.

Louise Geoffrion, Program Manager, Canadian Red Cross: “We always try to get the message out that everyone has to be prepared. In the case of an emergency, everybody has a role to play. That’s why we train people in first aid and CPR and tell people to have an emergency kit. Being prepared yourself could mean saving the life of a loved one.” Click for Audio File.

Les Johnson, Director of Client Services, St. John Ambulance: “Many of the things we take for granted such as drug stores and bank machines might be closed in an emergency so it’s absolutely vital to have a back-up plan just in case. And knowing that emergency supplies are on hand and in one place gives you peace of mind and a sense of security.” Click for Audio File.

Rick Larabie, Ottawa Fire Chief / Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs:

“First responders are trained to be prepared for any kind of emergency. But it always helps when people take steps on their own to stay informed and safe so that emergency workers can focus on those who need help quickly and urgently. Doing your part to prepare yourself, your home and your families helps all of us to help you.” Click for Audio File.

A emergency prepardness guide is available here

A shopping list of emergency kit items is available here

Background:

Since the “72 Hours...Is Your Family Prepared?” campaign was launched in November 2006, over one million people have visited the www.GetPrepared.ca website, and more than 2.5 million Emergency Preparedness Guides have been distributed throughout Canada; even more have been accessed through 1-800 O Canada or downloaded from the website.

In this campaign, Public Safety Canada works with the Canadian Red Cross, St. John Ambulance, The Salvation Army, police and fire chiefs, provinces and territories and others with a shared interest in seeing Canadians better prepared and able to recover more quickly from natural or human-induced emergencies.

The campaign has successfully encouraged more Canadians to take action to prepare. One in five Canadians who saw the 72 Hours advertising from last year say they took action as a direct result of seeing the ads.

Despite a number of weather-related emergencies in recent years, most Canadians are still not well-prepared to sustain themselves for the first 72 hours of an emergency.

For example, given the gap that exists between those who believe they have a kit (43 percent) and those whose kits contain all the recommended basic items (estimated at 8 percent), further effort is required to raise awareness of appropriate kit contents.

For more information, please contact
Public Safety Canada
Media Relations
613-991-0657

Back

The Simple Dollar

Active, Passive, and Portfolio Frugality: Where Should One Start?

Posted: 10 Mar 2009 01:00 PM PDT

One of the most common ideas expressed in personal finance books is distinguishing between three different kinds of income:

Active income is earned through your active effort - in other words, the money you make from your job. Your paycheck is active income. Income from any side businesses you have is active income. Incidental earnings, like finding money on the street, is active income, too, since you actually had to contribute effort to receive it at all.

Passive income is income that you receive without continual active effort. Income from a rental property is passive income. Book royalties are passive income. A website you set up once, put ads on, and walked away from is passive income.

Portfolio income is income that you receive from your financial investments. Interest from your savings account is portfolio income, as are dividends from your stock holdings or income from selling an investment.

What intrigues me about this division of incomes is that it lines up well with different types of frugality.

First of all, there’s active frugality. Active frugality results from continuous effort and continuous choices to save money. Using a shopping list at the grocery store is active frugality - you have to make up a shopping list each time, but you’re rewarded with the money you save on the shopping trip.

On the other hand, passive frugality is the result of simply not doing something. Choosing to continue to use a crock pot with a broken lid handle is an example of passive frugality. Wearing well-worn socks is another example. Driving your car until it completely breaks down is yet another example. Simply put, you can save a lot of money by simply using things until they’re completely used up.

A third type of frugality is what I’d call portfolio frugality. Portfolio frugality happens when you make an initial investment of time or money into something that will pay dividends slowly over a long time. Installing energy efficient lighting in your home is a form of portfolio frugality. Putting in a programmable thermostat is portfolio frugality. Putting a black cover over the windows in an unused room is portfolio frugality.

From where I sit, most of the negative reputation that frugality gets comes from active frugality (”it seems like a lot of work to save a little money”) and excessive passive frugality (”what kind of cheapskate has holes in their socks?”). Those forms of frugality tend to run more against the grain of mainstream society and meet more resistance from others.

Thus, if you’re getting started on frugality, I recommend trying out portfolio frugality and a few basic pieces of passive frugality. Do things like swapping your light bulbs out, installing a programmable thermostat, and waiting another year or two to upgrade your computer or cell phone.

As you get more and more used to the pleasures of saving money, you can continue to push things until you find your comfort level. Try out higher levels of passive frugality (can’t you get a few more miles out of those socks?) and dabble in active frugality, too (why not make a grocery list before you go? How about cutting out those stops at the fast food restaurant?). Eventually, you’ll find your own comfort level, where you see yourself saving plenty of money but not behaving in a way that makes you feel “cheap.”

Personally, I really enjoy seeking out “portfolio frugality” options. I love doing things up front that continually save me money over the long haul without my active intervention or without any real change in my quality of life.

My Weekly Personal Finance Routine

Posted: 10 Mar 2009 07:00 AM PDT

net worth workoutAlmost as soon as my review of Susan Feitelberg’s The Net Worth Workout was posted, several readers wrote to me with great interest about my own weekly personal finance routine. One came from Alex:

How exactly do you fill an hour and a half each week working on your personal finances? I only need to spend a few minutes. Isn’t an hour and a half kind of a waste of time?

I should point out here that I actually spend a lot more than an hour and a half a week thinking about personal finance - after all, I spend a lot of time doing research explicitly for this site. I spend my weekly personal finance session focusing entirely on my own financial situation, although it quite often produces a good handful of ideas for The Simple Dollar.

So, how do I fill this hour and a half each week?

I make sure all my bills are paid. This involves going through all of the mail received in the last week, pulling out the bills, and paying them using online banking. I also pay several bills by checking their balances online on the first Sunday of the month and paying those with online banking.

I check all of my accounts just to make sure they’re in good standing. This usually involves logging onto a small handful of websites and checking my statements and recent transactions there.

On the first Sunday of each month, I prepare a monthly personal finance statement. This usually takes about an hour or so, since it requires collecting a lot of data from various places, organizing it, and doing a lot of comparisons to earlier months (mostly for my own interest).

I read prospectuses for the index funds I’m invested in or considering investing in. Lately, I’ve been reading a big pile of prospectuses from Vanguard. This way, I gain a strong understanding of what their funds are actually indexing and whether or not I want to invest in them myself.

I do research for upcoming major purchases. Lately, this has mostly involved research into automobiles. I take down a lot of notes, then compile them into useful “talking points” for the decision my wife and I are making.

I engage my wife in discussions on some of these issues. We talk about our goals. We talk about how our investments and income are doing. We talk about our plans for big upcoming purchases. We talk about our dreams, too, and about how they’re constantly evolving and growing and changing.

Each week, I try to learn about something new. Sometimes it’s a skill that could be useful for saving money. Other times, it might be learning about how a specific type of investment works. Quite often, the things I learn about here translate directly into Simple Dollar posts, but I do this learning for my own personal growth and I’d do it regardless of whether or not I was writing The Simple Dollar.

This stuff easily fills an hour and a half. In fact, the “hour and a half” is usually just the length of my children’s nap. If they nap for longer, I dig a little deeper and keep reading.

Because of this routine, I feel myself understanding more and more about some of the nuances of how to manage money. I’m more in touch with my risk tolerance, for one, and my knowledge about specific investments seems to be growing by leaps and bounds.

Why not give it a try? You don’t need to spend an hour and a half - just set aside a half an hour each weekend to do this and grow it from there if you feel it’s appropriate.

http://www.thesimpledollar.com

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