March Lessons
March 7 Presidency Lesson
March 14 Gospel Principles Lesson #4 “Freedom to Choose”
Teacher: Myrna Clark
March 21 Gospel Principles #27 “The Creation”
Teacher: Judy Paxton
March 28 Teachings for our Times Oct. 2009 General Conference “More Diligent and Concerned at Home” Elder Bednar Nov. 2009 Ensign, pg 68
http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?hideNav=1&locale=0&sourceId=4aec56627ab94210VgnVCM100000176f620a____&vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD
Teacher - Ramona Ford
March Visiting Teaching Message“Strengthening Faith in God the Father and Jesus Christ through Personal Scripture Study” Ensign, Mar. 2010, p 8 http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?locale=0&sourceId=e2ecea00a8bf6210VgnVCM100000176f620a____&vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD Full message on the Blog
Relief Society Presidency
We have had a change in the Relief Society Presidency. Sister Karen Brown, President, Sister Linda Owen, 1st Councilor, Sister Sandy Levinson, 2nd Councilor, and Sister Kristy Gellerson, Secretary, have been released. They have done a fantastic job and we all want to thank them for the way that they have magnified their callings. I’m sure that they would appreciate a warm hug and a sincere “Thank You.”
Our new Relief Society Presidency is Sister Sherrie Marriott, President, Sister Erin Taylor, 1st Councilor, Sister Paskett, 2nd Councilor and Sister Kayelyn Birch, Secretary. We need to remember that when we raised are hands to sustain them; we need to sustain them in our daily actions.
The Sister of the Month
This month we are spotlighting Sister Barbara Stout. She has also provided us story about her Great-great grandparents. We want to thank her for sharing.
Genealogy Tips
With Melanie Owens’ fabulous enthusiasm concerning genealogy, I thought that it would be nice to include some genealogy tips.
March is a Green Month
When we think about March we usually think about St. Patrick’s Day – and green. With this in mind, I found a couple of web sites concerning going green – “Green Spring Cleaning Tips” and “Going Green and Saving Green”
The start of Spring
Since March 20th is the first day of spring (vernal equinox), I thought it would be nice to have some tips on gardening; early spring yard and lawn care and tips on gardening with children.
Disasters
There are several disasters that have happened. Hopefully there are certain things that we have learned from them. It is my opinion that Heavenly Father has a mirror on us in regards to self reliance. He holds it up facing us to show our responsibilities for our own self reliance. We have had counsel to become self sufficient, get out of, and stay out of debt, and prepare for emergencies. However, He also holds the mirror in such a way that it shines a light on our reaction to other’s needs. He is also very clear in what we need to do there.
Mosiah 4:16 And also, ye yourselves will succor those that stand in need of your succor; ye will administer of your substance unto him that standeth in need; and ye will not suffer that the beggar putteth up his petition to you in vain, and turn him out to perish.
17 Perhaps thou shalt say: The man has brought upon himself his misery; therefore I will stay my hand, and will not give unto him of my food, nor impart unto him of my substance that he may not suffer, for his punishments are just—
18 But I say unto you, O man, whosoever doeth this the same hath great cause to repent; and except he repenteth of that which he hath done he perisheth forever, and hath no interest in the kingdom of God.
19 For behold, are we not all beggars? Do we not all depend upon the same Being, even God, for all the substance which we have, for both food and raiment, and for gold, and for silver, and for all the riches which we have of every kind?
In regards to the latter, we have good opportunities to help in various parts of the world. We can go to www.lds.org and we can also contribute on our tithing slip. As to the former, I have included an article about emergency preparedness for the times we’re away from home. I have also included an article about what we have learned from the Haiti Earthquake on the blog.
March Recipe
Although March is a Green month, I thought it would be good to go over the beneficial aspects of grapes. I find it interesting that, although there has been reports concerning the virtues of drinking wine, this article shows us that the healthy benefits can be received from simple grape juice.
Also, since the Olympics in Canada are coming to an end, I have included, on the blog, an article with a small tidbit about the Olympics with a couple of recipes.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
March Visiting Teaching Message
“Strengthening Faith in God the Father and Jesus Christ through Personal Scripture Study,” Ensign, Mar 2010, 8
Teach these scriptures and quotations or, if needed, another principle that will bless the sisters you visit. Bear testimony of the doctrine. Invite those you visit to share what they have felt and learned.
“When I was a new bride, … I was invited to a lunch for all of the Relief Society sisters in my ward who had read either the Book of Mormon or a short Church history book. I had become casual in my scripture reading, so I qualified to attend the luncheon by reading the short book because it was easier and took less time. As I was eating my lunch, I had a powerful feeling that though the history book was a good one, I should have read the Book of Mormon. The Holy Ghost was prompting me to change my scripture reading habits. That very day I began to read the Book of Mormon, and I have never stopped. … Because I started reading the scriptures daily, I have learned about my Heavenly Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and what I need to do to be like Them. …
“… Every woman can be a gospel doctrine instructor in her home, and every sister in the Church needs gospel knowledge as a leader and teacher. If you have not already developed the habit of daily scripture study, start now and keep studying in order to be prepared for your responsibilities in this life and in the eternities.”1
Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.
“A study of the scriptures will help our testimonies and the testimonies of our family members. Our children today are growing up surrounded by voices urging them to abandon that which is right and to pursue, instead, the pleasures of the world. Unless they have a firm foundation in the gospel of Jesus Christ, a testimony of the truth, and a determination to live righteously, they are susceptible to these influences. It is our responsibility to fortify and protect them.”2
President Thomas S. Monson.
“We want our sisters to be scholars of the scriptures. … You need an acquaintanceship with his eternal truths for your own well being, and for the purposes of teaching your own children and all others who come within your influence.”3
“We want our homes to be blessed with sister scriptorians—whether you are single or married, young or old, widowed or living in a family. … Become scholars of the scriptures—not to put others down, but to lift them up!”4
President Spencer W. Kimball (1895–1985).
Helps for Visiting Teaching
During your visit, answer questions and share insights using the scriptures. Bear testimony of how scripture study has strengthened your faith. Ask the sister you visit to share how her study of the scriptures has strengthened her home and family.
Personal Preparation
John 5:39
2 Timothy 3:14–17
2 Nephi 9:50–51; 31:20; 32:3–5
D&C 138:1–11
Notes
1. Julie B. Beck, “My Soul Delighteth in the Scriptures,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2004, 107–9.
2. Thomas S. Monson, “Three Goals to Guide You,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2007, 118.
3. Spencer W. Kimball, “Privileges and Responsibilities of Sisters,” Ensign, Nov. 1978, 102.
4. Spencer W. Kimball, “The Role of Righteous Women,” Ensign, Nov. 1979, 102.
Teach these scriptures and quotations or, if needed, another principle that will bless the sisters you visit. Bear testimony of the doctrine. Invite those you visit to share what they have felt and learned.
“When I was a new bride, … I was invited to a lunch for all of the Relief Society sisters in my ward who had read either the Book of Mormon or a short Church history book. I had become casual in my scripture reading, so I qualified to attend the luncheon by reading the short book because it was easier and took less time. As I was eating my lunch, I had a powerful feeling that though the history book was a good one, I should have read the Book of Mormon. The Holy Ghost was prompting me to change my scripture reading habits. That very day I began to read the Book of Mormon, and I have never stopped. … Because I started reading the scriptures daily, I have learned about my Heavenly Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and what I need to do to be like Them. …
“… Every woman can be a gospel doctrine instructor in her home, and every sister in the Church needs gospel knowledge as a leader and teacher. If you have not already developed the habit of daily scripture study, start now and keep studying in order to be prepared for your responsibilities in this life and in the eternities.”1
Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president.
“A study of the scriptures will help our testimonies and the testimonies of our family members. Our children today are growing up surrounded by voices urging them to abandon that which is right and to pursue, instead, the pleasures of the world. Unless they have a firm foundation in the gospel of Jesus Christ, a testimony of the truth, and a determination to live righteously, they are susceptible to these influences. It is our responsibility to fortify and protect them.”2
President Thomas S. Monson.
“We want our sisters to be scholars of the scriptures. … You need an acquaintanceship with his eternal truths for your own well being, and for the purposes of teaching your own children and all others who come within your influence.”3
“We want our homes to be blessed with sister scriptorians—whether you are single or married, young or old, widowed or living in a family. … Become scholars of the scriptures—not to put others down, but to lift them up!”4
President Spencer W. Kimball (1895–1985).
Helps for Visiting Teaching
During your visit, answer questions and share insights using the scriptures. Bear testimony of how scripture study has strengthened your faith. Ask the sister you visit to share how her study of the scriptures has strengthened her home and family.
Personal Preparation
John 5:39
2 Timothy 3:14–17
2 Nephi 9:50–51; 31:20; 32:3–5
D&C 138:1–11
Notes
1. Julie B. Beck, “My Soul Delighteth in the Scriptures,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2004, 107–9.
2. Thomas S. Monson, “Three Goals to Guide You,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2007, 118.
3. Spencer W. Kimball, “Privileges and Responsibilities of Sisters,” Ensign, Nov. 1978, 102.
4. Spencer W. Kimball, “The Role of Righteous Women,” Ensign, Nov. 1979, 102.
Sister of the month and Ancestor Story
Barbara Clark Cook Stout
Barbara Clark Cook Stout was born June 25, 19?? in SLC, UT while her grandparents were serving a mission in Mexico. At the age of one, her mother took Barbara to Mexico for a short visit, not knowing she was breaking mission rules. Barbara has lived most of her life where she lives now or @ 720 E. where her brother Bill Clark now lives. In 1963, while living in her grandmother's (Viola Stout) basement apartment, her father, Justin Clark, with the help of Merlin Smith (a long-time ward member), dug a basement for a house to be moved from 3300 So. across from Granite High, about where Checker Auto is now, to its present location @720 E. At that time, there were many Stouts and Clarks living in the ward. She had a few aunts and uncles, cousins and both sets of grandparents living in the ward. Melanie Owens is a distant cousin. Richard Owen is her uncle's brother-in-law.
Barbara is the oldest of 17 children and was given a lot of responsibilities. Her mother, now Maureen Eldredge, plays the piano. She started giving Barbara piano lessons at the age of 5 and continued until 7th grade. Barbara also started playing the violin in school in the 4th grade. In 7th grade, she changed to viola. She told her parents she would like to learn the guitar. Her foster-sister got a guitar for Christmas. She told her parents she would like to learn the harmonica. Two brothers were given harmonicas for the next Christmas. Then one year of paid piano lessons was given as a Christmas present. She quit lessons when she had to start paying for them herself, but started giving piano lessons when she was in the 9th grade. She had 14 students and a paper route so she could earn money to go to Europe with her grandmother, Viola Stout - which she did and had a hoot. Barbara did finally "inherit" the guitar when her foster-sister left and taught herself to play. As Barbara started college, her father got some extra pay and bought a bunch of instruments, one being a xylophone-like instrument called a marimba. Playing around with the marimba would later be instrumental (he - he) in her joining a band to play many percussion instruments. He also paid $600 toward a viola of her choice. When Barbara decided to go on a mission, she asked Merv Brown to give her organ lessons, which he did. She served a mission to Norway.
After her mission, she graduated from Snow College and BYU. She returned to Ephraim to teach 2nd grade in Mt. Pleasant, UT She met her husband, Mike Cook and got married right after her first year of teaching. After a period of time of Mike's loss of employment, they moved back to SLC and moved into her grandmother's upstairs apartment where's she been ever since. Mike died in 2004. She married Roger Stout in November 2007. Now there are Stouts and Clarks in the ward and a few aunts and uncles and cousins. Bill and Richard Clark are her brothers. The grandparents on both sides are smiling down from heaven.
Pioneer Story
Barbara has a pioneer story handed down to her from her father's side. Her great-great grandparents were coming from Denmark. Cholera broke out and her great-great grandmother's son got sick. She tended him until he died and she came down with cholera, as well and died. The bodies were in a wagon for a while before the company stopped to bury all of the dead. The oldest daughter was by the wagon when her mother came back from the dead for a short time. The mother told her daughter that heaven was a very beautiful place, that the gospel was true, and that they all should stand fast in their testimonies and never leave the church. The family did stay strong.
Barbara Clark Cook Stout was born June 25, 19?? in SLC, UT while her grandparents were serving a mission in Mexico. At the age of one, her mother took Barbara to Mexico for a short visit, not knowing she was breaking mission rules. Barbara has lived most of her life where she lives now or @ 720 E. where her brother Bill Clark now lives. In 1963, while living in her grandmother's (Viola Stout) basement apartment, her father, Justin Clark, with the help of Merlin Smith (a long-time ward member), dug a basement for a house to be moved from 3300 So. across from Granite High, about where Checker Auto is now, to its present location @720 E. At that time, there were many Stouts and Clarks living in the ward. She had a few aunts and uncles, cousins and both sets of grandparents living in the ward. Melanie Owens is a distant cousin. Richard Owen is her uncle's brother-in-law.
Barbara is the oldest of 17 children and was given a lot of responsibilities. Her mother, now Maureen Eldredge, plays the piano. She started giving Barbara piano lessons at the age of 5 and continued until 7th grade. Barbara also started playing the violin in school in the 4th grade. In 7th grade, she changed to viola. She told her parents she would like to learn the guitar. Her foster-sister got a guitar for Christmas. She told her parents she would like to learn the harmonica. Two brothers were given harmonicas for the next Christmas. Then one year of paid piano lessons was given as a Christmas present. She quit lessons when she had to start paying for them herself, but started giving piano lessons when she was in the 9th grade. She had 14 students and a paper route so she could earn money to go to Europe with her grandmother, Viola Stout - which she did and had a hoot. Barbara did finally "inherit" the guitar when her foster-sister left and taught herself to play. As Barbara started college, her father got some extra pay and bought a bunch of instruments, one being a xylophone-like instrument called a marimba. Playing around with the marimba would later be instrumental (he - he) in her joining a band to play many percussion instruments. He also paid $600 toward a viola of her choice. When Barbara decided to go on a mission, she asked Merv Brown to give her organ lessons, which he did. She served a mission to Norway.
After her mission, she graduated from Snow College and BYU. She returned to Ephraim to teach 2nd grade in Mt. Pleasant, UT She met her husband, Mike Cook and got married right after her first year of teaching. After a period of time of Mike's loss of employment, they moved back to SLC and moved into her grandmother's upstairs apartment where's she been ever since. Mike died in 2004. She married Roger Stout in November 2007. Now there are Stouts and Clarks in the ward and a few aunts and uncles and cousins. Bill and Richard Clark are her brothers. The grandparents on both sides are smiling down from heaven.
Pioneer Story
Barbara has a pioneer story handed down to her from her father's side. Her great-great grandparents were coming from Denmark. Cholera broke out and her great-great grandmother's son got sick. She tended him until he died and she came down with cholera, as well and died. The bodies were in a wagon for a while before the company stopped to bury all of the dead. The oldest daughter was by the wagon when her mother came back from the dead for a short time. The mother told her daughter that heaven was a very beautiful place, that the gospel was true, and that they all should stand fast in their testimonies and never leave the church. The family did stay strong.
Genealogy tips
The Top 10 Tips for a Successful SLC Research Trip
While some of these tips are better suited to a guest (a friend or relative traveling to SL), others are good for everyone.
http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~genepool/slc.htm
1. Be prepared. Get film and book numbers from local LDS Family History Center before you go to [the]
SLC [Center]
2. Establish goals and priorities prior to making your trip to [the] SLC [Center]. Make a list of your problems and list sources that might give you answers - GET IDEAS ON WHERE TO LOOK!
3. Plan your trip so that Sunday falls in the middle of your stay and use that day for resting and planning the rest of your research time
4. Look at books first, since they aren't available through interlibrary loan
5. Organize your research so that you don't have to run back and forth between floors
6. If film has to be brought from the vault, order it on arrival (or before) and leave it for last
7. Census records are listed by year, state and county, so you don't need the number
8. Bring rolls of quarters for copy machines or use available bill changers
9. Attend Sunday morning service at the Tabernacle or choir rehearsal on Thursday
night
10. Ask LDS receptionist for pass to their cafeteria
http://www.essortment.com/all/tracingfamilyh_rcpc.htm
Genealogy Tips: Tracing your family history
Trace your family's historical information as a hobby by following these beginning steps: write down what you know, interview family members, and check records.
One of the most popular hobbies in America today is genealogy. Discovering your family history is a pleasurable pastime, and with the explosion in resources available, especially the Internet, you can successfully uncover several generations of ancestors. But before you go out and invest in a software program, or start poring over databases on your computer screen in the middle of the night, try some simple first steps that will cost you nothing but time.
The first step on your journey into your family’s past is to write down information you already know. Don’t worry yet about documentation or sources. Using a simple family tree form (known as a Pedigree Chart to genealogists) makes this step easier, but you can just write it on a plain sheet of paper if you’d like. (There are free downloadable Pedigree Charts available on the Internet.) Start with yourself. Then list the names of your parents, your grandparents, etc. If you have them, record the dates and places of births, deaths, and marriages as well. There now, that wasn’t so painful, was it? You have just completed the first step down the path of your family’s history. You are now ready to move on.
In order to find out more information regarding your ancestry, you need to find out what knowledge your family members possess. To do this, you must ask them. This will involve your natural curiosity, as well as some basic interviewing techniques. Don’t let the word interview frighten you. There is no job at stake, and no one will be judging your performance. But your goal is to find out as much information as possible, and knowing how to do this can be helpful. Here are some tips to help you find out the facts and stories you know are out there just waiting to be uncovered.
1. Ask the person you wish to interview if they want to talk about the family history. Though the majority of family members will most likely be delighted to speak with you, there may be a few relatives who will be uncooperative or downright hostile. By their nature, family stories are quite personal, and not everyone wishes to share them. Respect that.
2. Start with a question or subject that will get a complete response, such as a story that you’ve heard the person relate before.
3. Avoid general questions like “Tell me about your school years.”
4. Ask questions that require more than a yes or no answer.
5. Have an idea what direction you would like to go in your questioning, but don’t be dismayed if the person you are interviewing heads down another road. You might get some details you hadn’t anticipated.
6. Using props like photographs and scrapbooks can help to stimulate a response to your questions.
7. Take notes, or preferably, tape record your interviews.
8. Soon after your interviews, write a note of thanks to those whom you interviewed.
The interviewing phase is a step that you shouldn’t delay for too long. We don’t like to think about it, but none of us are getting any younger. Talk to your older relatives while they can still share their knowledge with you.
Now that you have written down what you already know, and have started interviewing family members regarding what they know, it is time to progress to another phase of family history research. Again, this is a step you can do without having to leave your own home!
Take a look around your house (or your parents’ or grandparents’ if you need to), and see what family records may be available. These records can be treasure troves of information for the family history researcher. The first place most people think to look is at in family Bible, which has been a traditional place for families to record births, deaths, and marriages. You may also find obituaries and newspaper clippings tucked into the pages. Some of the other types of records you may find include:
1. Birth Records. It is unlikely that you will find a birth certificate for anyone born before 1920. Other potential sources of birth information include baptismal records, school records, letters, diaries, birth announcements, and baby books.
2. Marriage Records. Marriage licenses or certificates are frequently found in a family’s records. They will at least record the names of the couple being married. However, many of them record birth places and parents’ names as well. Other sources for marriage information include newspaper announcements and family Bible records.
3. Death Records. Death certificates are often located with the family papers. These generally have the information regarding the date and place of death, as well as the deceased’s parents’ names. You may also find death information in newspaper obituaries, legal notices, letters, and again, the family Bible.
4. Other Sources. There are numerous other sources of pertinent family history information you might find at home. Immigrants to this nation often received naturalization certificates. Passports, military discharge papers, photographs, land records, business transactions, legal records, and wills are all potential sources of the information you need to unravel the mysteries of your family’s history.
Discovering your family’s history is a wonderful pastime, but it shouldn’t seem like a daunting task. Once you record what you and your family already knows, and uncovers records that may be sitting under your nose at home, you will be well on your way to a lifetime of celebrating your family’s past, enjoying its present, and recording it for the future.
http://www.genealogicaljourneys.com/tips.htm
While some of these tips are better suited to a guest (a friend or relative traveling to SL), others are good for everyone.
http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~genepool/slc.htm
1. Be prepared. Get film and book numbers from local LDS Family History Center before you go to [the]
SLC [Center]
2. Establish goals and priorities prior to making your trip to [the] SLC [Center]. Make a list of your problems and list sources that might give you answers - GET IDEAS ON WHERE TO LOOK!
3. Plan your trip so that Sunday falls in the middle of your stay and use that day for resting and planning the rest of your research time
4. Look at books first, since they aren't available through interlibrary loan
5. Organize your research so that you don't have to run back and forth between floors
6. If film has to be brought from the vault, order it on arrival (or before) and leave it for last
7. Census records are listed by year, state and county, so you don't need the number
8. Bring rolls of quarters for copy machines or use available bill changers
9. Attend Sunday morning service at the Tabernacle or choir rehearsal on Thursday
night
10. Ask LDS receptionist for pass to their cafeteria
http://www.essortment.com/all/tracingfamilyh_rcpc.htm
Genealogy Tips: Tracing your family history
Trace your family's historical information as a hobby by following these beginning steps: write down what you know, interview family members, and check records.
One of the most popular hobbies in America today is genealogy. Discovering your family history is a pleasurable pastime, and with the explosion in resources available, especially the Internet, you can successfully uncover several generations of ancestors. But before you go out and invest in a software program, or start poring over databases on your computer screen in the middle of the night, try some simple first steps that will cost you nothing but time.
The first step on your journey into your family’s past is to write down information you already know. Don’t worry yet about documentation or sources. Using a simple family tree form (known as a Pedigree Chart to genealogists) makes this step easier, but you can just write it on a plain sheet of paper if you’d like. (There are free downloadable Pedigree Charts available on the Internet.) Start with yourself. Then list the names of your parents, your grandparents, etc. If you have them, record the dates and places of births, deaths, and marriages as well. There now, that wasn’t so painful, was it? You have just completed the first step down the path of your family’s history. You are now ready to move on.
In order to find out more information regarding your ancestry, you need to find out what knowledge your family members possess. To do this, you must ask them. This will involve your natural curiosity, as well as some basic interviewing techniques. Don’t let the word interview frighten you. There is no job at stake, and no one will be judging your performance. But your goal is to find out as much information as possible, and knowing how to do this can be helpful. Here are some tips to help you find out the facts and stories you know are out there just waiting to be uncovered.
1. Ask the person you wish to interview if they want to talk about the family history. Though the majority of family members will most likely be delighted to speak with you, there may be a few relatives who will be uncooperative or downright hostile. By their nature, family stories are quite personal, and not everyone wishes to share them. Respect that.
2. Start with a question or subject that will get a complete response, such as a story that you’ve heard the person relate before.
3. Avoid general questions like “Tell me about your school years.”
4. Ask questions that require more than a yes or no answer.
5. Have an idea what direction you would like to go in your questioning, but don’t be dismayed if the person you are interviewing heads down another road. You might get some details you hadn’t anticipated.
6. Using props like photographs and scrapbooks can help to stimulate a response to your questions.
7. Take notes, or preferably, tape record your interviews.
8. Soon after your interviews, write a note of thanks to those whom you interviewed.
The interviewing phase is a step that you shouldn’t delay for too long. We don’t like to think about it, but none of us are getting any younger. Talk to your older relatives while they can still share their knowledge with you.
Now that you have written down what you already know, and have started interviewing family members regarding what they know, it is time to progress to another phase of family history research. Again, this is a step you can do without having to leave your own home!
Take a look around your house (or your parents’ or grandparents’ if you need to), and see what family records may be available. These records can be treasure troves of information for the family history researcher. The first place most people think to look is at in family Bible, which has been a traditional place for families to record births, deaths, and marriages. You may also find obituaries and newspaper clippings tucked into the pages. Some of the other types of records you may find include:
1. Birth Records. It is unlikely that you will find a birth certificate for anyone born before 1920. Other potential sources of birth information include baptismal records, school records, letters, diaries, birth announcements, and baby books.
2. Marriage Records. Marriage licenses or certificates are frequently found in a family’s records. They will at least record the names of the couple being married. However, many of them record birth places and parents’ names as well. Other sources for marriage information include newspaper announcements and family Bible records.
3. Death Records. Death certificates are often located with the family papers. These generally have the information regarding the date and place of death, as well as the deceased’s parents’ names. You may also find death information in newspaper obituaries, legal notices, letters, and again, the family Bible.
4. Other Sources. There are numerous other sources of pertinent family history information you might find at home. Immigrants to this nation often received naturalization certificates. Passports, military discharge papers, photographs, land records, business transactions, legal records, and wills are all potential sources of the information you need to unravel the mysteries of your family’s history.
Discovering your family’s history is a wonderful pastime, but it shouldn’t seem like a daunting task. Once you record what you and your family already knows, and uncovers records that may be sitting under your nose at home, you will be well on your way to a lifetime of celebrating your family’s past, enjoying its present, and recording it for the future.
http://www.genealogicaljourneys.com/tips.htm
Gardening Tips
Gardening Tips from the University of Utah Extension Service
Do you have tips on early spring lawn and yard care? From University of Utah Extension service
http://extension.usu.edu/htm/faq/faq_q=113
In early spring, you can reduce the tangle of weeds that appear in your yard, prune your trees, reduce garden pests and help your lawn become healthy and green. Proper care of your lawn in the spring will help promote a healthy landscape throughout the year. Consider these tips.
* Core aeration, where small plugs are removed from the soil, has proven to be more beneficial to turf than power raking, which was a common yard care technique several years ago. Aerating allows better air, water and fertilizer penetration into the soil. It also helps reduce the thatch layer and minimizes compaction that produces unhealthy roots. It can be done any time the ground is free from snow. Heavily used areas and clay soils may need to be aerated twice a year, once in the spring and again in the fall. Normal soil types and use areas are usually fine with one aeration in the spring, and sandy soils only need it every two years.
* If a fall fertilizer was applied last year, the grass may not need it again until mid or late- May. If there was no fall application, a fertilizer high in nitrogen can be applied now. Consider using a slow release fertilizer, such as sulfur-coated urea. These fertilizers are more expensive, but only need to be applied every two to three months to keep the lawn looking green and lush.
* You can begin mowing your grass as soon as it starts to grow, leaving it between 2 1/2 to 3 inches tall. You should begin watering when the lawn looks dry or begins to show early symptoms of water stress.
* Weeds, such as spurge, crabgrass and foxtail, are common in July and August and should be controlled in the spring since they are nearly impossible to remove midsummer. Weeds germinate and are small in the spring so they go unnoticed. Nip them in the bud by applying a pre-emergent such as Galleria, Halt or Dacthal to the lawn now and then again in early June. These products must be applied before the weeds begin to germinate since they kill the young germinating annuals, not the established weeds.
* Cleaning up debris around the yard and garden will help keep pests under control. They love to hide under old dead plant material and organic matter. Controlling the first generation of most insects greatly reduces their number throughout the summer. A clean garden eliminates a breeding area or a place for insects to gather.
* Control broadleaf weeds in early May with a broadleaf weed killer. These weeds include dandelions, clover, black medic and chickweed. They need to be treated before the weather warms to above 85 degrees.
* When trimming ornamental and shade trees, remember that the tree limbs and branches will stay at the same height for the entire life of the tree. The growing point for the tree is located in the top terminal bud, and the rest of the tree will only grow in circumference. If the branch is four feet off the ground today, it will be four feet off the ground in 20 years.
* You can safely prune most trees through the end of May. Most pruning is done before the tree leafs out because it is easier to see where to prune and easier to get into the tree. I recommend pruning in March and early April.
* Do very little pruning on ornamental trees. Prune wood that is dead, diseased or injured and branches that cross (rub), grow back into the center of the tree or are out of place. Be sure to keep the natural shape of the tree intact.
Do you have tips on gardening with children? http://extension.usu.edu/JUAB/htm/faq/faq_q=252
Gardening is a helpful way to explore nature in both rural and urban environments, and it provides a hands-on experience for children. From the youngest toddler to the oldest child in the family, every gardening season brings new challenges and lessons. Consider ages as your children help with gardening, and remember to grow enough items in the garden that the experience will be successful.
Preschoolers - children ages 4 and under should be supervised at all times in the garden. At this age, the garden is a multi-sensory exploration, and they pay very little attention to long-term activities. Touch, smell, sight and taste are the key inputs to learning. Language development is encouraged as young children learn names of weeds, flowers and vegetables. Share picture books about gardens, flowers, vegetables, insects and birds with young children.
Kindergartners - at this age, the world is a storybook. A garden is a good setting for a myriad of stories. Use your imagination to create a play place for your child. Many children this age will appreciate stories like “Wind in the Willows,” where animal creatures come alive with dialog. Create dialog between creatures found in your own garden, such as pill bugs, grasshoppers and earthworms.
Early elementary grades - continue with library trips that augment the garden experience. First and second graders can successfully hold their interest long enough to sow radish seeds and watch them grow. True garden work (harvesting, weeding, etc.) requires supervision but boosts children’s self-esteem as they are praised for their helpfulness. Make finger puppets or action figures out of plant materials found in the garden or yard. Mid-elementary grades - start incorporating school lessons into garden activities. Make a garden plan at the beginning of the season and carry it through. Allow children to have a spot of their own to do whatever they like. Provide suggestions and be supportive. Encourage them to write a garden journal.
Upper elementary grades - children in fourth to sixth grades are able to sustain their attention for longer time periods. Enroll your child with friends in a 4-H gardening club and watch them progress through their chosen project. Encourage them to enter their project in the county fair. School lessons will begin to have more pertinence to garden planning and results. Encourage scientific inquiry by helping children set up experiments in the garden.
Pre-teens to teens - the garden is still a place for learning and at this age can also offer stress relief. There’s even potential money if your child can grow flowers or vegetables to sell in the neighborhood. They could use their garden skills and “garden-sit” as neighbors leave for vacations. Encourage community service in a garden or landscape at such places as a handicapped neighbor’s home or at school. The 4-H program can be an important part of youths’ lives as they take leadership roles and develop public speaking skills.
Beyond the teenage years - hopefully you have nurtured your child’s sense of wonder and awe through their years of gardening. Gardening is a life skill that is not taught in schools. It is up to caring adults to show youth the garden path. Children and young people will have different priorities than adults when it comes to gardening, and that is okay. Remember you can always buy fresh produce at the local farmer’s market, so relax if things don’t turn out the way you’d hoped or if your plants get stomped by little feet.
Do you have tips on early spring lawn and yard care? From University of Utah Extension service
http://extension.usu.edu/htm/faq/faq_q=113
In early spring, you can reduce the tangle of weeds that appear in your yard, prune your trees, reduce garden pests and help your lawn become healthy and green. Proper care of your lawn in the spring will help promote a healthy landscape throughout the year. Consider these tips.
* Core aeration, where small plugs are removed from the soil, has proven to be more beneficial to turf than power raking, which was a common yard care technique several years ago. Aerating allows better air, water and fertilizer penetration into the soil. It also helps reduce the thatch layer and minimizes compaction that produces unhealthy roots. It can be done any time the ground is free from snow. Heavily used areas and clay soils may need to be aerated twice a year, once in the spring and again in the fall. Normal soil types and use areas are usually fine with one aeration in the spring, and sandy soils only need it every two years.
* If a fall fertilizer was applied last year, the grass may not need it again until mid or late- May. If there was no fall application, a fertilizer high in nitrogen can be applied now. Consider using a slow release fertilizer, such as sulfur-coated urea. These fertilizers are more expensive, but only need to be applied every two to three months to keep the lawn looking green and lush.
* You can begin mowing your grass as soon as it starts to grow, leaving it between 2 1/2 to 3 inches tall. You should begin watering when the lawn looks dry or begins to show early symptoms of water stress.
* Weeds, such as spurge, crabgrass and foxtail, are common in July and August and should be controlled in the spring since they are nearly impossible to remove midsummer. Weeds germinate and are small in the spring so they go unnoticed. Nip them in the bud by applying a pre-emergent such as Galleria, Halt or Dacthal to the lawn now and then again in early June. These products must be applied before the weeds begin to germinate since they kill the young germinating annuals, not the established weeds.
* Cleaning up debris around the yard and garden will help keep pests under control. They love to hide under old dead plant material and organic matter. Controlling the first generation of most insects greatly reduces their number throughout the summer. A clean garden eliminates a breeding area or a place for insects to gather.
* Control broadleaf weeds in early May with a broadleaf weed killer. These weeds include dandelions, clover, black medic and chickweed. They need to be treated before the weather warms to above 85 degrees.
* When trimming ornamental and shade trees, remember that the tree limbs and branches will stay at the same height for the entire life of the tree. The growing point for the tree is located in the top terminal bud, and the rest of the tree will only grow in circumference. If the branch is four feet off the ground today, it will be four feet off the ground in 20 years.
* You can safely prune most trees through the end of May. Most pruning is done before the tree leafs out because it is easier to see where to prune and easier to get into the tree. I recommend pruning in March and early April.
* Do very little pruning on ornamental trees. Prune wood that is dead, diseased or injured and branches that cross (rub), grow back into the center of the tree or are out of place. Be sure to keep the natural shape of the tree intact.
Do you have tips on gardening with children? http://extension.usu.edu/JUAB/htm/faq/faq_q=252
Gardening is a helpful way to explore nature in both rural and urban environments, and it provides a hands-on experience for children. From the youngest toddler to the oldest child in the family, every gardening season brings new challenges and lessons. Consider ages as your children help with gardening, and remember to grow enough items in the garden that the experience will be successful.
Preschoolers - children ages 4 and under should be supervised at all times in the garden. At this age, the garden is a multi-sensory exploration, and they pay very little attention to long-term activities. Touch, smell, sight and taste are the key inputs to learning. Language development is encouraged as young children learn names of weeds, flowers and vegetables. Share picture books about gardens, flowers, vegetables, insects and birds with young children.
Kindergartners - at this age, the world is a storybook. A garden is a good setting for a myriad of stories. Use your imagination to create a play place for your child. Many children this age will appreciate stories like “Wind in the Willows,” where animal creatures come alive with dialog. Create dialog between creatures found in your own garden, such as pill bugs, grasshoppers and earthworms.
Early elementary grades - continue with library trips that augment the garden experience. First and second graders can successfully hold their interest long enough to sow radish seeds and watch them grow. True garden work (harvesting, weeding, etc.) requires supervision but boosts children’s self-esteem as they are praised for their helpfulness. Make finger puppets or action figures out of plant materials found in the garden or yard. Mid-elementary grades - start incorporating school lessons into garden activities. Make a garden plan at the beginning of the season and carry it through. Allow children to have a spot of their own to do whatever they like. Provide suggestions and be supportive. Encourage them to write a garden journal.
Upper elementary grades - children in fourth to sixth grades are able to sustain their attention for longer time periods. Enroll your child with friends in a 4-H gardening club and watch them progress through their chosen project. Encourage them to enter their project in the county fair. School lessons will begin to have more pertinence to garden planning and results. Encourage scientific inquiry by helping children set up experiments in the garden.
Pre-teens to teens - the garden is still a place for learning and at this age can also offer stress relief. There’s even potential money if your child can grow flowers or vegetables to sell in the neighborhood. They could use their garden skills and “garden-sit” as neighbors leave for vacations. Encourage community service in a garden or landscape at such places as a handicapped neighbor’s home or at school. The 4-H program can be an important part of youths’ lives as they take leadership roles and develop public speaking skills.
Beyond the teenage years - hopefully you have nurtured your child’s sense of wonder and awe through their years of gardening. Gardening is a life skill that is not taught in schools. It is up to caring adults to show youth the garden path. Children and young people will have different priorities than adults when it comes to gardening, and that is okay. Remember you can always buy fresh produce at the local farmer’s market, so relax if things don’t turn out the way you’d hoped or if your plants get stomped by little feet.
Top Green Spring Cleaning Tips
http://planetgreen.discovery.com/go-green/spring-cleaning/spring-cleaning-tips.html
1.Reduce
The first step to fighting messes and keeping your home spic-and-span is getting rid of all that stuff you never use. Go through all the places where it accumulates—try closets, junk drawers, out-of-reach shelves, attics and basements, and any other place where you're inclined to toss stuff as you say, "I'll deal with this later"and be diligent about— separating out what you really will use someday from what you never will. Be honest: you may say you like that sweater your aunt gave you for Christmas in 2004, but if it still has the tags on it, you aren't ever going to wear it. And be practical: do you really need that quesadilla maker? We're not suggesting that you trim down to an uber-minimalist lifestyle, but the quickest way to cut your cleaning time is to simply have less stuff to clean.
2.Reuse
Now you have a pile that you're ready to get rid of—but wait: don't just trash it. First, go through and see if any of those items could serve a purpose you haven't thought of before: Do you have enough books to stack up and use as a side table? Can you take the frames off those ugly paintings and use them elsewhere? We know of ways to reuse everything from single mittens and broken guitar strings to holiday greeting cards and ceramic tiles—so while we aren't suggesting you keep all this around just in case, see if any of what you have can save you from buying something else.
3.Donate
Once you've taken stock of what you can use, separate out items that someone else might need. This includes dishes, kitchen gadgets, clothes, books, magazines, toys, home decor—all of these items could find a second life with someone else. If you need instant gratification, just drop it all off at your local Goodwill or Salvation Army; if you're slightly more patient, try offering items for sale or barter on Craigslist, turning your goods over to an artist, donating through Freecycle, or seeing what you can get for that collection of comic books on eBay. Your house will be less cluttered; someone else can skip buying new; and the landfills will be that much emptier.
4.Recycle
Once you've exhausted all the other options, it's time to hit the recycling bucket. Of course you're already recycling newspapers, magazines, and any glass that isn't salvageable, but take a second look at the rest of your trash, too: did you clean out the fridge? Find a compost pile. Get rid of old electronics, from cell phones to VCRs to ancient computers, by passing them off to retailers with a recycling program or to a specialized electronics recycling company. Check anything plastic to make sure it's recyclable, and make sure to safely dispose of anything that's not recyclable or trash-friendly, like old paint or batteries.
5.Get the right home organization tools
Now that you've managed to weed out the useless from the useful, you need to find a system for organizing what you've got left—because if you can't find something when you need it, you'd might as well not have it at all. For this, you'll need storage containers, but that doesn't mean you need to stock up on (non biodegradable) plastic bins; instead, try cardboard boxes wrapped in pretty paper, bamboo baskets, or cloth bags made from old t-shirts. Raise your storage with eco-friendly shelving to free up floorspace and make your rooms look bigger. And note: if, while you're organizing, you find items that don't seem to fit with anything else, those are likely goods you could add to the "donate" pile.
6.Make your own household cleaning supplies
Buying eco-friendly cleaning supplies is a good start, but for a truly green clean, make your own cleaners. You'll bypass the resources that go into production, shipping, and purchasing—from making that plastic spray bottle to getting the product to your local supermarket—and you'll save a ton of money. Most of your home can be cleaned with recipes that are a combination of hot water, vinegar, and baking soda or washing soda; add a few drops of essential oil for scent if you prefer. Since you're only making what you need as you need it, you're cutting back on waste, and you won't have any worries about what kind of toxins you may be spraying around your kids and pets.
7.Aim for a no-waste clean
No matter how green your sprays and scrubs may be, if you use an entire roll of paper towels to scrub your bathroom—well, that is not exactly eco-friendly cleaning. And when you're looking at a project as big as this one, you'll want to leave little to no waste in your wake. Trade paper towels for reusable microfiber cloths or sponges, and ditch the Swiffer sweeper for a broom (preferably one you already have, of course) or the disposable mop for a reusable one.
8.Choose natural cleaning for big projects
Sure, you vacuum, dust, and wipe the counters on a daily or weekly basis, but spring is the perfect time to focus on the spaces you generally gloss over—by vacuuming out the refrigerator coils to make the appliance more efficient, deep-cleaning your carpet, and washing your drapes. For the carpet, mix borax and essential oil together, sprinkle over the rug, let it sit, and then vacuum; for curtains and drapes that are machine washable, use an eco-friendly detergent. If they're not up to going in the washer, find an eco-friendly dry cleaner in your area and drop them off there.
9.Go paperless
This is one we've mentioned before—it's a great way to green your home office—but your annual spring cleaning is a perfect reminder to make sure you aren't overwhelmed by junk mail. Using a service like GreenDimes or 41 pounds, stem the tide of incoming junk mail; then set up your bank account for online billing and payments to cut back on waste. You'll have fewer papers to file and keep track of, plus fewer forests will be decimated just for another J. Crew catalog. And as your magazine subscriptions expire, see if you can read online instead to keep your living space even more clutter-free.
10.Plan ahead
If you keep these tips in mind all year, then your 2010 spring cleaning will be that much easier. Don't let stuff accumulate in your home; don't buy things you don't need; and don't be shy about returning gifts you won't ever use. Take advantage of the seasons to edit your collections and donate or sell goods—you might get more at a consignment shop for a winter coat in the fall then in the spring, and your yard sale of extra housewares may do better in late summer if you can catch the back-to-college crowd. Thinking green throughout all areas of your life—from your office to your wardrobe to your home electronics—will put you ahead of the game come next spring.
1.Reduce
The first step to fighting messes and keeping your home spic-and-span is getting rid of all that stuff you never use. Go through all the places where it accumulates—try closets, junk drawers, out-of-reach shelves, attics and basements, and any other place where you're inclined to toss stuff as you say, "I'll deal with this later"and be diligent about— separating out what you really will use someday from what you never will. Be honest: you may say you like that sweater your aunt gave you for Christmas in 2004, but if it still has the tags on it, you aren't ever going to wear it. And be practical: do you really need that quesadilla maker? We're not suggesting that you trim down to an uber-minimalist lifestyle, but the quickest way to cut your cleaning time is to simply have less stuff to clean.
2.Reuse
Now you have a pile that you're ready to get rid of—but wait: don't just trash it. First, go through and see if any of those items could serve a purpose you haven't thought of before: Do you have enough books to stack up and use as a side table? Can you take the frames off those ugly paintings and use them elsewhere? We know of ways to reuse everything from single mittens and broken guitar strings to holiday greeting cards and ceramic tiles—so while we aren't suggesting you keep all this around just in case, see if any of what you have can save you from buying something else.
3.Donate
Once you've taken stock of what you can use, separate out items that someone else might need. This includes dishes, kitchen gadgets, clothes, books, magazines, toys, home decor—all of these items could find a second life with someone else. If you need instant gratification, just drop it all off at your local Goodwill or Salvation Army; if you're slightly more patient, try offering items for sale or barter on Craigslist, turning your goods over to an artist, donating through Freecycle, or seeing what you can get for that collection of comic books on eBay. Your house will be less cluttered; someone else can skip buying new; and the landfills will be that much emptier.
4.Recycle
Once you've exhausted all the other options, it's time to hit the recycling bucket. Of course you're already recycling newspapers, magazines, and any glass that isn't salvageable, but take a second look at the rest of your trash, too: did you clean out the fridge? Find a compost pile. Get rid of old electronics, from cell phones to VCRs to ancient computers, by passing them off to retailers with a recycling program or to a specialized electronics recycling company. Check anything plastic to make sure it's recyclable, and make sure to safely dispose of anything that's not recyclable or trash-friendly, like old paint or batteries.
5.Get the right home organization tools
Now that you've managed to weed out the useless from the useful, you need to find a system for organizing what you've got left—because if you can't find something when you need it, you'd might as well not have it at all. For this, you'll need storage containers, but that doesn't mean you need to stock up on (non biodegradable) plastic bins; instead, try cardboard boxes wrapped in pretty paper, bamboo baskets, or cloth bags made from old t-shirts. Raise your storage with eco-friendly shelving to free up floorspace and make your rooms look bigger. And note: if, while you're organizing, you find items that don't seem to fit with anything else, those are likely goods you could add to the "donate" pile.
6.Make your own household cleaning supplies
Buying eco-friendly cleaning supplies is a good start, but for a truly green clean, make your own cleaners. You'll bypass the resources that go into production, shipping, and purchasing—from making that plastic spray bottle to getting the product to your local supermarket—and you'll save a ton of money. Most of your home can be cleaned with recipes that are a combination of hot water, vinegar, and baking soda or washing soda; add a few drops of essential oil for scent if you prefer. Since you're only making what you need as you need it, you're cutting back on waste, and you won't have any worries about what kind of toxins you may be spraying around your kids and pets.
7.Aim for a no-waste clean
No matter how green your sprays and scrubs may be, if you use an entire roll of paper towels to scrub your bathroom—well, that is not exactly eco-friendly cleaning. And when you're looking at a project as big as this one, you'll want to leave little to no waste in your wake. Trade paper towels for reusable microfiber cloths or sponges, and ditch the Swiffer sweeper for a broom (preferably one you already have, of course) or the disposable mop for a reusable one.
8.Choose natural cleaning for big projects
Sure, you vacuum, dust, and wipe the counters on a daily or weekly basis, but spring is the perfect time to focus on the spaces you generally gloss over—by vacuuming out the refrigerator coils to make the appliance more efficient, deep-cleaning your carpet, and washing your drapes. For the carpet, mix borax and essential oil together, sprinkle over the rug, let it sit, and then vacuum; for curtains and drapes that are machine washable, use an eco-friendly detergent. If they're not up to going in the washer, find an eco-friendly dry cleaner in your area and drop them off there.
9.Go paperless
This is one we've mentioned before—it's a great way to green your home office—but your annual spring cleaning is a perfect reminder to make sure you aren't overwhelmed by junk mail. Using a service like GreenDimes or 41 pounds, stem the tide of incoming junk mail; then set up your bank account for online billing and payments to cut back on waste. You'll have fewer papers to file and keep track of, plus fewer forests will be decimated just for another J. Crew catalog. And as your magazine subscriptions expire, see if you can read online instead to keep your living space even more clutter-free.
10.Plan ahead
If you keep these tips in mind all year, then your 2010 spring cleaning will be that much easier. Don't let stuff accumulate in your home; don't buy things you don't need; and don't be shy about returning gifts you won't ever use. Take advantage of the seasons to edit your collections and donate or sell goods—you might get more at a consignment shop for a winter coat in the fall then in the spring, and your yard sale of extra housewares may do better in late summer if you can catch the back-to-college crowd. Thinking green throughout all areas of your life—from your office to your wardrobe to your home electronics—will put you ahead of the game come next spring.
10 Ways to Go Green and Save Green
http://www.worldwatch.org/resources/go_green_save_green
How can we live lightly on the Earth and save money at the same time? Staff members at the Worldwatch Institute, a global environmental organization, share ideas on how to GO GREEN and SAVE GREEN at home and at work.
Climate change is in the news. It seems like everyone's "going green." We're glad you want to take action, too. Luckily, many of the steps we can take to stop climate change can make our lives better. Our grandchildren-and their children-will thank us for living more sustainably. Let's start now.
We've partnered with the Million Car Carbon Campaign to help you find ways to save energy and reduce your carbon footprint. This campaign is uniting conscious consumers around the world to prevent the emissions-equivalent of 1 million cars from entering the atmosphere each year.
Keep reading for 10 simple things you can do today to help reduce your environmental impact, save money, and live a happier, healthier life.
1.Save energy to save money. State of the World 2009:
Into a Warming World ◦Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter and a few degrees higher in the summer to save on heating and cooling costs.
◦Install compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) when your older incandescent bulbs burn out.
◦Unplug appliances when you're not using them. Or, use a "smart" power strip that senses when appliances are off and cuts "phantom" or "vampire" energy use.
◦Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible. As much as 85 percent of the energy used to machine-wash clothes goes to heating the water.
◦Use a drying rack or clothesline to save the energy otherwise used during machine drying.
2.Save water to save money.
◦Take shorter showers to reduce water use. This will lower your water and heating bills too.
◦Install a low-flow showerhead. They don't cost much, and the water and energy savings can quickly pay back your investment.
◦Make sure you have a faucet aerator on each faucet. These inexpensive appliances conserve heat and water, while keeping water pressure high.
◦Plant drought-tolerant native plants in your garden. Many plants need minimal watering. Find out which occur naturally in your area.
3.Less gas = more money (and better health!). World Watch Magazine
◦Walk or bike to work. This saves on gas and parking costs while improving your cardiovascular health and reducing your risk of obesity.
◦Consider telecommuting if you live far from your work. Or move closer. Even if this means paying more rent, it could save you money in the long term.
◦Lobby your local government to increase spending on sidewalks and bike lanes. With little cost, these improvements can pay huge dividends in bettering your health and reducing traffic.
4.Eat smart.
◦If you eat meat, add one meatless meal a week. Meat costs a lot at the store-and it's even more expensive when you consider the related environmental and health costs.
◦Buy locally raised, humane, and organic meat, eggs, and dairy whenever you can. Purchasing from local farmers keeps money in the local economy.
◦Watch videos about why local food and sustainable seafood are so great.
◦Whatever your diet, eat low on the food chain [pdf]. This is especially true for seafood.
5.Skip the bottled water.
◦Use a water filter to purify tap water instead of buying bottled water. Not only is bottled water expensive, but it generates large amounts of container waste.
◦Bring a reusable water bottle, preferably aluminum rather than plastic, with you when traveling or at work.
◦Check out this short article for the latest on bottled water trends.
6.Think before you buy. Low Carbon Energy Report
◦Go online to find new or gently used secondhand products. Whether you've just moved or are looking to redecorate, consider a service like craigslist or FreeSharing to track down furniture, appliances, and other items cheaply or for free.
◦Check out garage sales, thrift stores, and consignment shops for clothing and other everyday items.
◦When making purchases, make sure you know what's "Good Stuff" and what isn't.
◦Watch a video about what happens when you buy things. Your purchases have a real impact, for better or worse.
7.Borrow instead of buying.
◦Borrow from libraries instead of buying personal books and movies. This saves money, not to mention the ink and paper that goes into printing new books.
◦Share power tools and other appliances. Get to know your neighbors while cutting down on the number of things cluttering your closet or garage.
8.Buy smart. Climate Change Reference Guide
◦Buy in bulk. Purchasing food from bulk bins can save money and packaging.
◦Wear clothes that don't need to be dry-cleaned. This saves money and cuts down on toxic chemical use.
◦Invest in high-quality, long-lasting products. You might pay more now, but you'll be happy when you don't have to replace items as frequently (and this means less waste!).
9.Keep electronics out of the trash.
◦Keep your cell phones, computers, and other electronics as long as possible.
◦Donate or recycle them responsibly when the time comes. E-waste contains mercury and other toxics and is a growing environmental problem.
◦Recycle your cell phone.
◦Ask your local government to set up an electronics recycling and hazardous waste collection event.
10.Make your own cleaning supplies.
Join the Million Car Carbon Campaign by purchasing your Earth-Aid kit today.
◦The big secret: you can make very effective, non-toxic cleaning products whenever you need them. All you need are a few simple ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, lemon, and soap.
◦Making your own cleaning products saves money, time, and packaging-not to mention your indoor air quality.
11.Bonus Item!
◦Stay informed about going green. Sign up for our weekly newsletter or subscribe to World Watch, our award-winning magazine.
How can we live lightly on the Earth and save money at the same time? Staff members at the Worldwatch Institute, a global environmental organization, share ideas on how to GO GREEN and SAVE GREEN at home and at work.
Climate change is in the news. It seems like everyone's "going green." We're glad you want to take action, too. Luckily, many of the steps we can take to stop climate change can make our lives better. Our grandchildren-and their children-will thank us for living more sustainably. Let's start now.
We've partnered with the Million Car Carbon Campaign to help you find ways to save energy and reduce your carbon footprint. This campaign is uniting conscious consumers around the world to prevent the emissions-equivalent of 1 million cars from entering the atmosphere each year.
Keep reading for 10 simple things you can do today to help reduce your environmental impact, save money, and live a happier, healthier life.
1.Save energy to save money. State of the World 2009:
Into a Warming World ◦Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter and a few degrees higher in the summer to save on heating and cooling costs.
◦Install compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) when your older incandescent bulbs burn out.
◦Unplug appliances when you're not using them. Or, use a "smart" power strip that senses when appliances are off and cuts "phantom" or "vampire" energy use.
◦Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible. As much as 85 percent of the energy used to machine-wash clothes goes to heating the water.
◦Use a drying rack or clothesline to save the energy otherwise used during machine drying.
2.Save water to save money.
◦Take shorter showers to reduce water use. This will lower your water and heating bills too.
◦Install a low-flow showerhead. They don't cost much, and the water and energy savings can quickly pay back your investment.
◦Make sure you have a faucet aerator on each faucet. These inexpensive appliances conserve heat and water, while keeping water pressure high.
◦Plant drought-tolerant native plants in your garden. Many plants need minimal watering. Find out which occur naturally in your area.
3.Less gas = more money (and better health!). World Watch Magazine
◦Walk or bike to work. This saves on gas and parking costs while improving your cardiovascular health and reducing your risk of obesity.
◦Consider telecommuting if you live far from your work. Or move closer. Even if this means paying more rent, it could save you money in the long term.
◦Lobby your local government to increase spending on sidewalks and bike lanes. With little cost, these improvements can pay huge dividends in bettering your health and reducing traffic.
4.Eat smart.
◦If you eat meat, add one meatless meal a week. Meat costs a lot at the store-and it's even more expensive when you consider the related environmental and health costs.
◦Buy locally raised, humane, and organic meat, eggs, and dairy whenever you can. Purchasing from local farmers keeps money in the local economy.
◦Watch videos about why local food and sustainable seafood are so great.
◦Whatever your diet, eat low on the food chain [pdf]. This is especially true for seafood.
5.Skip the bottled water.
◦Use a water filter to purify tap water instead of buying bottled water. Not only is bottled water expensive, but it generates large amounts of container waste.
◦Bring a reusable water bottle, preferably aluminum rather than plastic, with you when traveling or at work.
◦Check out this short article for the latest on bottled water trends.
6.Think before you buy. Low Carbon Energy Report
◦Go online to find new or gently used secondhand products. Whether you've just moved or are looking to redecorate, consider a service like craigslist or FreeSharing to track down furniture, appliances, and other items cheaply or for free.
◦Check out garage sales, thrift stores, and consignment shops for clothing and other everyday items.
◦When making purchases, make sure you know what's "Good Stuff" and what isn't.
◦Watch a video about what happens when you buy things. Your purchases have a real impact, for better or worse.
7.Borrow instead of buying.
◦Borrow from libraries instead of buying personal books and movies. This saves money, not to mention the ink and paper that goes into printing new books.
◦Share power tools and other appliances. Get to know your neighbors while cutting down on the number of things cluttering your closet or garage.
8.Buy smart. Climate Change Reference Guide
◦Buy in bulk. Purchasing food from bulk bins can save money and packaging.
◦Wear clothes that don't need to be dry-cleaned. This saves money and cuts down on toxic chemical use.
◦Invest in high-quality, long-lasting products. You might pay more now, but you'll be happy when you don't have to replace items as frequently (and this means less waste!).
9.Keep electronics out of the trash.
◦Keep your cell phones, computers, and other electronics as long as possible.
◦Donate or recycle them responsibly when the time comes. E-waste contains mercury and other toxics and is a growing environmental problem.
◦Recycle your cell phone.
◦Ask your local government to set up an electronics recycling and hazardous waste collection event.
10.Make your own cleaning supplies.
Join the Million Car Carbon Campaign by purchasing your Earth-Aid kit today.
◦The big secret: you can make very effective, non-toxic cleaning products whenever you need them. All you need are a few simple ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, lemon, and soap.
◦Making your own cleaning products saves money, time, and packaging-not to mention your indoor air quality.
11.Bonus Item!
◦Stay informed about going green. Sign up for our weekly newsletter or subscribe to World Watch, our award-winning magazine.
Emergency Preparedness to Go
Emergency Preparedness to Go by Heather Beutler http://ldslivingmagazine.com/articles/show/1664
So, you have your neatly organized year supply of food and well-stocked 72-hour kits at your house. But what happens if you’re not at home when the worst happens?
Disaster can happen at any time, in any place—and you and your family might not be at home when catastrophe strikes. There may not be a way to access your food storage or emergency supplies, so it is vital that you have some type of an emergency kit for each place where members of your family spend a significant amount of time.
School Kits
Schools have emergency plans to help keep your children safe. How much do you know about them? It is a good idea to contact your school district to find out what their plans for an emergency situation include. Make sure you know your district’s policy concerning how your children will be released from the school in an emergency, so you can designate a meeting spot to join them.
You can also help your children prepare a mini-disaster kit to keep in their desk or locker at school. This kit would be extremely helpful if your children are ever stranded or trapped inside the school, or if the school ever needs to be evacuated. They would have access to some necessities until help could arrive, and have an extra source of comfort to help get them through the crisis. This kit could include some of the following items:
• Compact emergency blanket • Flashlight • Food
• Water • Condensed first-aid kit • Identification card
• Contact information • Their favorite comic book
This kit should be tailored to fit the specific needs of your children. If they are not comic book fans, substitute something else that could help them combat the stress and boredom that accompany emergency situations. Some children might also want a small toy to be included in their kit, and some might want an extra candy bar or two. Talk to your children about the kinds of things they think they would want in an emergency situation and include as many of their requests as possible. It is a good idea to contact your school district to find out what their plans for an emergency situation include.
Having said that, remember that this kit will need to be compact and contain only the essentials. It needs to be light enough that your child will be able to carry it for long periods of time without difficulty. It also needs to be small enough to fit inside a locker or desk without taking up too much room.
Similarly, it’s a good idea for adults who work outside of the home to keep a small emergency kit at their place of employment.
Car Kits
Your car should be a bastion of emergency preparedness. If your car breaks down or you get lost in a remote area, would you have access to the supplies you need to survive? If you need to quickly evacuate your home, would there be enough basic provisions in your car to sustain you?
Your car kit should include water and food. Remember the temperature in your car changes drastically everyday, so choose food items that won’t be damaged. Make sure you have a basic first-aid kit and enough blankets to keep everyone in your family warm. In addition to these essential supplies, your car kit should include the following:
• Flares and reflective triangles • Flashlight or chemical light stick • Emergency power source
• Tools to cut through seatbelts or break windows • Fire extinguisher • Heavy-duty rope
• AM/FM radio with multiple sources of power • Hand sanitizer and soap • Cell phone
If you are unable to contact help with your cell phone, tie a bright cloth (preferably red) to your antenna. This is generally recognized as a plea for assistance and can help rescuers find you. Try signaling for help using any other method you can think of: flares, lights, whistles, etc.
In addition to an emergency kit, you should always be supplied with some basic car-care necessities.
• Jumper cables • Car repair kit and tools • Map and compass
Customize your car kit to fit your family. Try to anticipate any special needs or circumstances that you may need to be prepared for. For babies you’ll want extra diapers, formula, and blankets, while small children will need extra snacks and a source of entertainment. Consider allergies or chronic illnesses within your family and include any appropriate medications.
College Kits
Between books, tuition, and rent, money is stretched a little too thin for most students to devote much thought to beginning a food storage supply or an emergency preparedness kit, but it is still important that they have quick access to emergency supplies. If you have sons or daughters leaving the nest for school this year, help prepare a kit for them to take to campus this fall.
Young adults living on their own for the first time probably won’t have enough space to store an extensive collection of emergency supplies. The kit you put together needs to be something they can keep under their bed or in a closet at their apartment or dorm. Young adults also usually don’t have funds to replenish a lot of perishable goods or to keep up anything too elaborate. Keep the kits simple, including only basic supplies:
• Essentials: three-day supply of food and water and a good first-aid kit
• Clothing: jacket or coat, raincoat or poncho, and extra clothing, underwear, and socks
• Bedding: blankets or a sleeping bag, an extra set of sheets, and plastic ground cloth
• Lighting: flashlight, batteries, candles, waterproof matches, lighter, and flares
• Tools: pocketknife, radio, can opener, utensils, dishes, sturdy rope, and duct tape
• Hygiene Supplies: toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, soap, hand sanitizer, shampoo, dish soap, feminine hygiene products, sunscreen, and basic and prescription medications
• Personal Documents: scriptures, patriarchal blessing, legal documents, identification, insurance policies, and vaccination papers
• Money: cash and credit cards
• Miscellaneous: prepaid phone cards, pen and paper, bags and containers
Some of these supplies will need to be rotated or replenished throughout the year. In the winter, sweaters, gloves, and hats should be included in the kit, while during warmer times of the year, a small supply of light clothing should be sufficient. Remind your students to keep everything updated.
It doesn’t take too much to piece these kinds of kits together. Start compiling things for them today. Being prepared will help you and your family face the uncertain future with a sense of courage and peace of mind.
LDS Living, July/August 2008, 81-82
So, you have your neatly organized year supply of food and well-stocked 72-hour kits at your house. But what happens if you’re not at home when the worst happens?
Disaster can happen at any time, in any place—and you and your family might not be at home when catastrophe strikes. There may not be a way to access your food storage or emergency supplies, so it is vital that you have some type of an emergency kit for each place where members of your family spend a significant amount of time.
School Kits
Schools have emergency plans to help keep your children safe. How much do you know about them? It is a good idea to contact your school district to find out what their plans for an emergency situation include. Make sure you know your district’s policy concerning how your children will be released from the school in an emergency, so you can designate a meeting spot to join them.
You can also help your children prepare a mini-disaster kit to keep in their desk or locker at school. This kit would be extremely helpful if your children are ever stranded or trapped inside the school, or if the school ever needs to be evacuated. They would have access to some necessities until help could arrive, and have an extra source of comfort to help get them through the crisis. This kit could include some of the following items:
• Compact emergency blanket • Flashlight • Food
• Water • Condensed first-aid kit • Identification card
• Contact information • Their favorite comic book
This kit should be tailored to fit the specific needs of your children. If they are not comic book fans, substitute something else that could help them combat the stress and boredom that accompany emergency situations. Some children might also want a small toy to be included in their kit, and some might want an extra candy bar or two. Talk to your children about the kinds of things they think they would want in an emergency situation and include as many of their requests as possible. It is a good idea to contact your school district to find out what their plans for an emergency situation include.
Having said that, remember that this kit will need to be compact and contain only the essentials. It needs to be light enough that your child will be able to carry it for long periods of time without difficulty. It also needs to be small enough to fit inside a locker or desk without taking up too much room.
Similarly, it’s a good idea for adults who work outside of the home to keep a small emergency kit at their place of employment.
Car Kits
Your car should be a bastion of emergency preparedness. If your car breaks down or you get lost in a remote area, would you have access to the supplies you need to survive? If you need to quickly evacuate your home, would there be enough basic provisions in your car to sustain you?
Your car kit should include water and food. Remember the temperature in your car changes drastically everyday, so choose food items that won’t be damaged. Make sure you have a basic first-aid kit and enough blankets to keep everyone in your family warm. In addition to these essential supplies, your car kit should include the following:
• Flares and reflective triangles • Flashlight or chemical light stick • Emergency power source
• Tools to cut through seatbelts or break windows • Fire extinguisher • Heavy-duty rope
• AM/FM radio with multiple sources of power • Hand sanitizer and soap • Cell phone
If you are unable to contact help with your cell phone, tie a bright cloth (preferably red) to your antenna. This is generally recognized as a plea for assistance and can help rescuers find you. Try signaling for help using any other method you can think of: flares, lights, whistles, etc.
In addition to an emergency kit, you should always be supplied with some basic car-care necessities.
• Jumper cables • Car repair kit and tools • Map and compass
Customize your car kit to fit your family. Try to anticipate any special needs or circumstances that you may need to be prepared for. For babies you’ll want extra diapers, formula, and blankets, while small children will need extra snacks and a source of entertainment. Consider allergies or chronic illnesses within your family and include any appropriate medications.
College Kits
Between books, tuition, and rent, money is stretched a little too thin for most students to devote much thought to beginning a food storage supply or an emergency preparedness kit, but it is still important that they have quick access to emergency supplies. If you have sons or daughters leaving the nest for school this year, help prepare a kit for them to take to campus this fall.
Young adults living on their own for the first time probably won’t have enough space to store an extensive collection of emergency supplies. The kit you put together needs to be something they can keep under their bed or in a closet at their apartment or dorm. Young adults also usually don’t have funds to replenish a lot of perishable goods or to keep up anything too elaborate. Keep the kits simple, including only basic supplies:
• Essentials: three-day supply of food and water and a good first-aid kit
• Clothing: jacket or coat, raincoat or poncho, and extra clothing, underwear, and socks
• Bedding: blankets or a sleeping bag, an extra set of sheets, and plastic ground cloth
• Lighting: flashlight, batteries, candles, waterproof matches, lighter, and flares
• Tools: pocketknife, radio, can opener, utensils, dishes, sturdy rope, and duct tape
• Hygiene Supplies: toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, soap, hand sanitizer, shampoo, dish soap, feminine hygiene products, sunscreen, and basic and prescription medications
• Personal Documents: scriptures, patriarchal blessing, legal documents, identification, insurance policies, and vaccination papers
• Money: cash and credit cards
• Miscellaneous: prepaid phone cards, pen and paper, bags and containers
Some of these supplies will need to be rotated or replenished throughout the year. In the winter, sweaters, gloves, and hats should be included in the kit, while during warmer times of the year, a small supply of light clothing should be sufficient. Remind your students to keep everything updated.
It doesn’t take too much to piece these kinds of kits together. Start compiling things for them today. Being prepared will help you and your family face the uncertain future with a sense of courage and peace of mind.
LDS Living, July/August 2008, 81-82
Health Benefits of Grapes
http://www.welchs.com/products/recipe-box/heart-healthy-recipes
The Protective Polyphenol
Polyphenol antioxidants are a particular type of plant nutrient naturally found in fruits, vegetables and plant-derived beverages such as tea, coffee, red wine and our personal favorite, grape juice.
100% Grape Juice has higher antioxidant power per serving than other popular 100% fruit juices – more than twice as high as orange juice. Welch's 100% Grape Juice made from Concord grapes is a great complement to whole fruits and vegetables, and is a delicious and convenient way to consume more fruit, and in particular, more purple fruit, as part of a balanced diet. Preliminary research suggests that 100% grape juice made from Concord grapes:
Helps protect cardiovascular health.
Helps control the way bad cholesterol may lead to damaging the arteries. Studies have shown that the polyphenol antioxidants in Concord grape juice may help slow the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, or "bad" cholesterol, in the arteries – which may help minimize damaging effects – allowing blood to flow where it's needed and promoting healthy, clear arteries.
Encourages flexible arteries.
A recent study showed that Concord grape juice works in a similar fashion to red wine in stimulating nitric oxide production in the lining of the arteries - important for greater blood vessel flexibility.
Contributes to healthy blood pressure.
Because of its positive effect on arterial health, many researchers believe that drinking Concord grape juice contributes to healthy blood pressure. In fact, two preliminary studies showed a reduction in blood pressure in hypertensive patients.
May help support a healthy mind.
Emerging research suggests that what is good for the heart may also be good for the mind. A recent pilot study found that drinking Concord grape juice may provide benefit for older adults with early memory decline, and this indicates there is a potential for Concord grape juice to help maintain a healthy mind. 8 This supports previous scientific studies that appear to indicate that a diet rich in antioxidants, such as those found in fruits, vegetables and their juices, may help slow and possibly even reverse age-related cognitive decline.
Contributes to a healthy immune system.
Polyphenol antioxidants and vitamin C help protect the body against free radicals that can damage healthy cells and may weaken the immune system. 100% Grape Juice is abundant in the antioxidant vitamin C, an essential nutrient which helps promote a healthy immune system. In addition, new research found that healthy participants who drank 100% Grape Juice daily showed a significant increase in a specific type of immune cell -- the gamma delta T-cell -- that can help ready the immune system to protect against potential invaders. Gamma delta T-cells play an important role in immune surveillance to detect potential pathogens and alert the immune system that a response is necessary.
Recipes
PURPLE COW SHAKES
1 (6 oz.) can frozen grape juice concentrate 1 c. milk 2 c. vanilla ice cream
Pour the juice concentrate and 1 cup of milk into a blender container. Scoop in 2 cups of ice cream. Cover and blend on high speed 30 seconds. Serve right away.
Note – Instead of using grape juice concentrate and having the milk act as the liquid for the grape juice, you could use powedered milk and reconstituted (regular strength) grape juice as the liquid for the milk – or plain water for the liquid for both.
ORANGE COW DRINK
3/4 c. cold water 1 egg
1 (6 oz.) can unsweetened frozen orange juice 1/2 c. nonfat dry milk
1 tsp. vanilla 10 ice cubes
Blend, cover and process. Garnish with 1 slice of orange.
More smoothie recipes on the blog.
The Protective Polyphenol
Polyphenol antioxidants are a particular type of plant nutrient naturally found in fruits, vegetables and plant-derived beverages such as tea, coffee, red wine and our personal favorite, grape juice.
100% Grape Juice has higher antioxidant power per serving than other popular 100% fruit juices – more than twice as high as orange juice. Welch's 100% Grape Juice made from Concord grapes is a great complement to whole fruits and vegetables, and is a delicious and convenient way to consume more fruit, and in particular, more purple fruit, as part of a balanced diet. Preliminary research suggests that 100% grape juice made from Concord grapes:
Helps protect cardiovascular health.
Helps control the way bad cholesterol may lead to damaging the arteries. Studies have shown that the polyphenol antioxidants in Concord grape juice may help slow the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, or "bad" cholesterol, in the arteries – which may help minimize damaging effects – allowing blood to flow where it's needed and promoting healthy, clear arteries.
Encourages flexible arteries.
A recent study showed that Concord grape juice works in a similar fashion to red wine in stimulating nitric oxide production in the lining of the arteries - important for greater blood vessel flexibility.
Contributes to healthy blood pressure.
Because of its positive effect on arterial health, many researchers believe that drinking Concord grape juice contributes to healthy blood pressure. In fact, two preliminary studies showed a reduction in blood pressure in hypertensive patients.
May help support a healthy mind.
Emerging research suggests that what is good for the heart may also be good for the mind. A recent pilot study found that drinking Concord grape juice may provide benefit for older adults with early memory decline, and this indicates there is a potential for Concord grape juice to help maintain a healthy mind. 8 This supports previous scientific studies that appear to indicate that a diet rich in antioxidants, such as those found in fruits, vegetables and their juices, may help slow and possibly even reverse age-related cognitive decline.
Contributes to a healthy immune system.
Polyphenol antioxidants and vitamin C help protect the body against free radicals that can damage healthy cells and may weaken the immune system. 100% Grape Juice is abundant in the antioxidant vitamin C, an essential nutrient which helps promote a healthy immune system. In addition, new research found that healthy participants who drank 100% Grape Juice daily showed a significant increase in a specific type of immune cell -- the gamma delta T-cell -- that can help ready the immune system to protect against potential invaders. Gamma delta T-cells play an important role in immune surveillance to detect potential pathogens and alert the immune system that a response is necessary.
Recipes
PURPLE COW SHAKES
1 (6 oz.) can frozen grape juice concentrate 1 c. milk 2 c. vanilla ice cream
Pour the juice concentrate and 1 cup of milk into a blender container. Scoop in 2 cups of ice cream. Cover and blend on high speed 30 seconds. Serve right away.
Note – Instead of using grape juice concentrate and having the milk act as the liquid for the grape juice, you could use powedered milk and reconstituted (regular strength) grape juice as the liquid for the milk – or plain water for the liquid for both.
ORANGE COW DRINK
3/4 c. cold water 1 egg
1 (6 oz.) can unsweetened frozen orange juice 1/2 c. nonfat dry milk
1 tsp. vanilla 10 ice cubes
Blend, cover and process. Garnish with 1 slice of orange.
More smoothie recipes on the blog.
The Haiti Earthquake - What Have We Learned?
The Haiti Earthquake - What Have We Learned?
From BigNews.biz – Free Press Release & World News Distribution Services
http://www.bignews.biz/?id=835420&pg=1&keys=Haiti-earthquake-rescue-recovery
Week two of the disaster and it is time to start learning from our mistakes as we have no idea when the next disaster will hit. Problems with search and rescue and recovery efforts are reviewed.
Reading bignews: The Haiti Earthquake - What Have We Learned?
The American response to the tragic earthquake in Haiti has proven once again that we still have not developed a strategy to handle disasters and that in spite of record contributions, record supplies and a record number of volunteers, getting the resources to the places where they are needed is far from a proven science.
Current estimates are that about 200,000 people will die in the disaster, up to 400,000 are injured and about 1.5 million homeless. It is possible that a week after the quake up to 100,000 may remained trapped in the debris with very little chance of saving them.
Of the injured, thousands need extensive medical care for crushing injuries and one clinic alone in Haiti is amputating limbs from over 70 people per day. With injuries taking so long to treat infections have already begun killing survivors who are unable to get medical care.
Hundreds of thousands still have no place to stay, inadequate food and drinking water and are in need of medical treatment. While many are dying needless deaths because we failed to respond immediately or failed to treat people who were injured, medical supplies, food and water remain stacked up at the airport and hundreds of rescue workers still cannot get to the places they are needed.
While it is true there are special circumstances that we faced in Haiti, like a collapse of the government and inferior infrastructure before the quake, in addition to the deaths of thousands of relief workers already in Haiti, the excruciating slowness of the response has been deadly and was not necessary.
American disaster response is flawed for several reasons. First is that there are two distinct types of immediate response needed for a tragedy of this magnitude. There is a need for first responders for search and rescue operations of those trapped in the disaster. There is also a need for distribution and recovery operations for the survivors.
Our failure is to think they are part of the same operation. There are so many differences between the two functions they should be treated as separate and distinct disaster responses with different teams, resources and missions. In an earlier story I highlighted the failure of the first response because it was caught up in the bureaucratic function of planning the long term recovery response.
The first response was a miserable failure by any measurement. Rescue teams that did make it to the scene immediately faced enormous problems with security, the selection of targets where the most people could be saved, and a way to get those that were saved medical treatment before infection and injuries killed them. After the first few rescue teams got into the city many others were left stranded at airports trying to get on site and it took them one or more days to even get there.
Once at the scene they had no heavy equipment to assist them, not even a week later, and still had minimal medical facilities available for those 2000 pieces of construction equipment but none seemed available at the disaster site. Helicopters could have been used to move the machines to the disaster zone. In a week's time many pieces could have been driven to the site but were not. A crucial element of rescue operations must be to get heavy equipment to the site along with medical treatment facilities.
By it's very nature the long term recovery process does take the planning, resources and long term commitment that can be managed quite successfully by the military working with non-government relief agencies and the United Nations. In Haiti this element was more successful than the first response but could be improved in many ways. Food and water distribution and the establishment of a network of medical treatment centers were the areas most in need of improvement.
The Haiti emergency response was certainly better than Katrina but far short of what might have saved the maximum number of lives. Let us hope the Obama administration will put aside pride and take responsibility for what happened or did not happen. In the end all we want is the most successful rescue and recovery operations possible. A thoughtful re-examination of the actions will go a long way toward saving more lives the next time.
From BigNews.biz – Free Press Release & World News Distribution Services
http://www.bignews.biz/?id=835420&pg=1&keys=Haiti-earthquake-rescue-recovery
Week two of the disaster and it is time to start learning from our mistakes as we have no idea when the next disaster will hit. Problems with search and rescue and recovery efforts are reviewed.
Reading bignews: The Haiti Earthquake - What Have We Learned?
The American response to the tragic earthquake in Haiti has proven once again that we still have not developed a strategy to handle disasters and that in spite of record contributions, record supplies and a record number of volunteers, getting the resources to the places where they are needed is far from a proven science.
Current estimates are that about 200,000 people will die in the disaster, up to 400,000 are injured and about 1.5 million homeless. It is possible that a week after the quake up to 100,000 may remained trapped in the debris with very little chance of saving them.
Of the injured, thousands need extensive medical care for crushing injuries and one clinic alone in Haiti is amputating limbs from over 70 people per day. With injuries taking so long to treat infections have already begun killing survivors who are unable to get medical care.
Hundreds of thousands still have no place to stay, inadequate food and drinking water and are in need of medical treatment. While many are dying needless deaths because we failed to respond immediately or failed to treat people who were injured, medical supplies, food and water remain stacked up at the airport and hundreds of rescue workers still cannot get to the places they are needed.
While it is true there are special circumstances that we faced in Haiti, like a collapse of the government and inferior infrastructure before the quake, in addition to the deaths of thousands of relief workers already in Haiti, the excruciating slowness of the response has been deadly and was not necessary.
American disaster response is flawed for several reasons. First is that there are two distinct types of immediate response needed for a tragedy of this magnitude. There is a need for first responders for search and rescue operations of those trapped in the disaster. There is also a need for distribution and recovery operations for the survivors.
Our failure is to think they are part of the same operation. There are so many differences between the two functions they should be treated as separate and distinct disaster responses with different teams, resources and missions. In an earlier story I highlighted the failure of the first response because it was caught up in the bureaucratic function of planning the long term recovery response.
The first response was a miserable failure by any measurement. Rescue teams that did make it to the scene immediately faced enormous problems with security, the selection of targets where the most people could be saved, and a way to get those that were saved medical treatment before infection and injuries killed them. After the first few rescue teams got into the city many others were left stranded at airports trying to get on site and it took them one or more days to even get there.
Once at the scene they had no heavy equipment to assist them, not even a week later, and still had minimal medical facilities available for those 2000 pieces of construction equipment but none seemed available at the disaster site. Helicopters could have been used to move the machines to the disaster zone. In a week's time many pieces could have been driven to the site but were not. A crucial element of rescue operations must be to get heavy equipment to the site along with medical treatment facilities.
By it's very nature the long term recovery process does take the planning, resources and long term commitment that can be managed quite successfully by the military working with non-government relief agencies and the United Nations. In Haiti this element was more successful than the first response but could be improved in many ways. Food and water distribution and the establishment of a network of medical treatment centers were the areas most in need of improvement.
The Haiti emergency response was certainly better than Katrina but far short of what might have saved the maximum number of lives. Let us hope the Obama administration will put aside pride and take responsibility for what happened or did not happen. In the end all we want is the most successful rescue and recovery operations possible. A thoughtful re-examination of the actions will go a long way toward saving more lives the next time.
Smoothies and such
Although my usual recipe for these types of drinks is, "As the Spirit Moves," I thought a couple of actual recipes would be nice.
From cdkitchen http://www.cdkitchen.com/recipes/recs/957/BananaOrangeMilkshake72313.shtml
Banana Orange Milkshake Recipe Submitted by Kellye, Georgia, USA
¾ cup plain fat-free yogurt
½ cup unsweetened orange joice
¼ cup splenda granular or sugar
1 cup (1 medium) diced banana
Directions:
In a blender container, combine yogurt, orange juice, and sweetener. Cover and process anon Blend for 10 seconds. Add banana. Re-cover and process on Blend for 15-20 seconds or until mixture is smooth. Serve at once.
From the Washington State Dairy Council
Yogurt-Fruit Smoothie
¼ cup strawberry or strawberry-banana yogurt
1/3 nonfat dry milk powder
½ banana
¾ cup orange juice
½ cup strawberries (optional)
Put ingredients in blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
From cdkitchen http://www.cdkitchen.com/recipes/recs/957/BananaOrangeMilkshake72313.shtml
Banana Orange Milkshake Recipe Submitted by Kellye, Georgia, USA
¾ cup plain fat-free yogurt
½ cup unsweetened orange joice
¼ cup splenda granular or sugar
1 cup (1 medium) diced banana
Directions:
In a blender container, combine yogurt, orange juice, and sweetener. Cover and process anon Blend for 10 seconds. Add banana. Re-cover and process on Blend for 15-20 seconds or until mixture is smooth. Serve at once.
From the Washington State Dairy Council
Yogurt-Fruit Smoothie
¼ cup strawberry or strawberry-banana yogurt
1/3 nonfat dry milk powder
½ banana
¾ cup orange juice
½ cup strawberries (optional)
Put ingredients in blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
Tid bits about the Olympics
Chef Gilligan’s Nanaimo bars By CHEF GILLIGAN
In 776 BC, Coroebus of Elis, a baker, won the stadion (now known as the sprint), making him the first medalist on record at the world's very first Olympiad in Greece. It makes perfect sense, a baker with easy access to carb-filled foods is bound to outrun, let's say, a bricklayer or a sandal maker, right?
So what do these winter games folk eat to keep up their strength and to hopefully end up on the podium with some precious metals hanging around their necks?
Well you will need plenty of protein and of course the carbs that we mentioned, Vancouver is synonymous with the salmon from the Columbia River and with Nanaimo Bars that’s what!
Nanaimo Bars (or N.B.s for short) are one of Canada's favorite confections. The beautiful City of Nanaimo, British Columbia lays claim to these squares, it all began when a Nanaimo housewife entered a recipe for chocolate squares in a magazine contest some 35 years ago. She called her recipe 'Nanaimo Bars' and when she won the contest, not only did her dessert become popular throughout Canada, so did the town they were named after. These no-bake, three layered bars are delicious; they start with a crumb base, followed by a layer of light custard buttercream, topped with a smooth layer of chocolate.
Nanaimo Bars Servings: Serves 12 to 16 (one square per person)
Bottom Layer
Ingredients:
½ cup unsalted butter (European-style cultured) ¼ cup sugar
5 tablespoons cocoa 1 egg beaten
1 ¼ cups graham wafer crumbs ½ cup finely chopped almonds
1 cup coconut
Method:
Melt first three ingredients in top of double boiler. Add egg and stir to cook and thicken. Remove from heat. Stir in crumbs, coconut, and nuts. Press firmly into an ungreased eight-by-eight-inch pan.
Second Layer
Ingredients:
½ cup unsalted butter 2 tablespoons and 2 teaspoons cream
2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder 2 cups icing sugar
Method:
Cream together butter, cream, custard powder, and icing sugar. Beat until light. Spread over bottom layer.
Third Layer
Ingredients:
4 squares semisweet chocolate (1 ounce each) 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Method:
Melt chocolate and butter over low heat. Cool. Once cool, but still liquid, pour over second layer and chill in refrigerator. Cut into squares when cooled.
*** I was thinking that there should be an easier version of this. If anyone comes up with one (i.e. using a premade graham cracker crust), please let me know.
Cedar Plank Salmon Servings: Serves four
Mingle tastes from the forest and the sea by grilling fresh salmon on a cedar plank. Use this simple recipe when entertaining, grilling on a BBQ, or even camping.
Ingredients:
1 salmon fillet, about 1 to 2 pounds ¼ cup olive oil
Juice of one lemon 1 tablespoon chopped basil
1 tablespoon chopped dill ½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon fresh black pepper
Method:
Get a piece of untreated cedar plank, just a little bigger than the fish. Soak the board for several hours in room-temperature water.
Combine all ingredients except the salmon. Marinate the salmon for several hours. Remove the fish from the marinade and place it on the plank. Place plank on a medium-heat grill for about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness (be careful not to overheat the wood, or it will catch fire). Tip: you can purchase cedar planks from specialty food stores, but a less expensive option is to buy a slab of untreated wood at the hardware store.
Q: Why isn’t sun tanning an Olympic sport?
A: Because the best you can ever get is bronze.
(I’ll get me coat!)
In 776 BC, Coroebus of Elis, a baker, won the stadion (now known as the sprint), making him the first medalist on record at the world's very first Olympiad in Greece. It makes perfect sense, a baker with easy access to carb-filled foods is bound to outrun, let's say, a bricklayer or a sandal maker, right?
So what do these winter games folk eat to keep up their strength and to hopefully end up on the podium with some precious metals hanging around their necks?
Well you will need plenty of protein and of course the carbs that we mentioned, Vancouver is synonymous with the salmon from the Columbia River and with Nanaimo Bars that’s what!
Nanaimo Bars (or N.B.s for short) are one of Canada's favorite confections. The beautiful City of Nanaimo, British Columbia lays claim to these squares, it all began when a Nanaimo housewife entered a recipe for chocolate squares in a magazine contest some 35 years ago. She called her recipe 'Nanaimo Bars' and when she won the contest, not only did her dessert become popular throughout Canada, so did the town they were named after. These no-bake, three layered bars are delicious; they start with a crumb base, followed by a layer of light custard buttercream, topped with a smooth layer of chocolate.
Nanaimo Bars Servings: Serves 12 to 16 (one square per person)
Bottom Layer
Ingredients:
½ cup unsalted butter (European-style cultured) ¼ cup sugar
5 tablespoons cocoa 1 egg beaten
1 ¼ cups graham wafer crumbs ½ cup finely chopped almonds
1 cup coconut
Method:
Melt first three ingredients in top of double boiler. Add egg and stir to cook and thicken. Remove from heat. Stir in crumbs, coconut, and nuts. Press firmly into an ungreased eight-by-eight-inch pan.
Second Layer
Ingredients:
½ cup unsalted butter 2 tablespoons and 2 teaspoons cream
2 tablespoons vanilla custard powder 2 cups icing sugar
Method:
Cream together butter, cream, custard powder, and icing sugar. Beat until light. Spread over bottom layer.
Third Layer
Ingredients:
4 squares semisweet chocolate (1 ounce each) 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Method:
Melt chocolate and butter over low heat. Cool. Once cool, but still liquid, pour over second layer and chill in refrigerator. Cut into squares when cooled.
*** I was thinking that there should be an easier version of this. If anyone comes up with one (i.e. using a premade graham cracker crust), please let me know.
Cedar Plank Salmon Servings: Serves four
Mingle tastes from the forest and the sea by grilling fresh salmon on a cedar plank. Use this simple recipe when entertaining, grilling on a BBQ, or even camping.
Ingredients:
1 salmon fillet, about 1 to 2 pounds ¼ cup olive oil
Juice of one lemon 1 tablespoon chopped basil
1 tablespoon chopped dill ½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon fresh black pepper
Method:
Get a piece of untreated cedar plank, just a little bigger than the fish. Soak the board for several hours in room-temperature water.
Combine all ingredients except the salmon. Marinate the salmon for several hours. Remove the fish from the marinade and place it on the plank. Place plank on a medium-heat grill for about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness (be careful not to overheat the wood, or it will catch fire). Tip: you can purchase cedar planks from specialty food stores, but a less expensive option is to buy a slab of untreated wood at the hardware store.
Q: Why isn’t sun tanning an Olympic sport?
A: Because the best you can ever get is bronze.
(I’ll get me coat!)
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