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|Email 816 761 3636
We Are
Mid-America Hunting Association is a private land self guided hunter organization operating in Kansas, Iowa and Missouri.
We have been in operation since 1965. That length of experience offers a refined hunt quality experience.
We operate for the average hunter who wants to make his own hunts. No hunting lodge, no guides. Just private hunting land in the right region of the state that gives good return to the hunter.
Our Hunts
Hunts are for deer, turkey, duck and goose; pheasant and quail.
Self Guided Hunts Only
We will assist each hunter to get to the point of where to park his truck, step out and begin his scouting or hunting. From that point each hunter makes his own hunt. He provides all his own equipment and skill.
Private Land
Tens of thousands of acres of private hunting lease land. All land is for the Association hunters' exclusive use.
All land is where we need to be for the best return for the hunter. This is possible by not operating a hunting lodge. We acquire land where we get the most return for the hunter. That causes many to hunt with this Association for years.
Lodging is by local motel.
How Land Is Accessed
Land access is by way of an online map library listing all land. Each spot is numbered. These maps along with a live person immediate confirmation telephone reservation insures all will know exactly where they will be scouting/hunting.
That telephone reservation is the means by which we prevent anyone from stacking up on the same hunting lease.
Before that telephone reservation each may talk to either one of the two Association partners, Jon Nee or John Wenzel. They will insure as best as our land will allow that each hunter will find the habitat and hunt he seeks.
All that hunt will have a choice from day to day where to hunt. No one is limited to just one spot. Most will developed favored areas and return there from season to season. All will enjoy the advantage of scouting/hunting new land each year as well. And, each may hunt his choice of the entire season.
Our System
One annual cost to access all private hunting land. For our three state region. For all seasons.
A 365 day year from the time the annual fee is paid until that anniversary the next calendar year. Or, allowance to hunt your choice of seasons.This is more hunting access than any one hunter has the energy to hunt. No one hunts it all. It is a matter that we limit hunters in the Association based on what they hunt.
It is that every lease we have has a reason why we have. That land profile determines how many hunters we can have based on hunting interest. The idea is never to have too many of any one type of hunter. It is that method that results in the hunter's benefit. That is he will always be able to hunt on his schedule and have a choice every day of where to hunt. Within that day each hunter may also change his hunting spot.
Our telephone number and email link are at the bottom of each web page. Always feel free to call with your questions.
Our popular hunt is Kansas deer hunting. That is in Kansas deer management units 3, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 16 and 17.
Second in popularity is Kansas pheasant hunting. Quail a close third. It has been that Kansas pheasant hunting has been better than that of our Iowa pheasant hunting.
Eastern and Rio Grande Turkey round out the most sought after Kansas hunts. This includes both fall and spring turkey seasons.
All Kansas hunting land is within watersheds. This is where grain farming is the primary land use. A food first, cover second approach for the better hunting opportunities.
Kansas has a wide range of cover. Large tall grass fields, brush filled draws and wooded drainage's connecting small wood patches. All of it around crop fields. A chance for some variety not available elsewhere.
Our having private land in this Iowa region is no accident. We also have had this Iowa land well before other more well known individuals popularized this region with videos.
Trophy Iowa deer hunting in Iowa deer zone 5 and zone 4. All of it on farm land and some fallow.
Spring turkey hunting zone 4 is often combined with a north Missouri turkey hunt. Missouri's tags are over the counter for all.
Pheasant and quail hunt quality run up and down dependent on weather. Kansas pheasant hunting has been better than that in Iowa for the last several years.
Waterfowl hunts are limited to field sets.
Missouri is better than most expect.
Missouri deer hunting holds the Association record for the largest rack as well as more trophy whitetail than Kansas. This is due to Missouri's Conservation Departments four-point one side zone.
Missouri duck hunting is our best. All of it on private wetlands covering the North and Middle Zones. Our wetlands are near Grand Pass, Swan Lake, Settles Ford, Four Rivers, Urich Waterfowl refuges.
Missouri leads the nation at spring turkey harvests. With out approach for one cost for all hunts each spring turkey hunter can hunt each of our three states. That is often a good time to conduct some deer scouting for a fall hunt.
Mid-America Hunting Association, Since 1965
Email, day/evening 816 761 3636
Spend your time hunting rather than hunting for a place to hunt.


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Take me away to Paradise. Island Dreamer's fusion of tropical re apples and lemon freshness scream paradise with every sip. (Gift Boxed)
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A tasty, vibrant and intensely moreish wine that I will continue to purchase. Beautifully packaged and it made a fantastic dinner party bring-a-long, that appeared far more expensive than it actually was. I'll definitely be gifting to clients and family for Christmas :)
"Tasted the Island Dreamer Brut Cuvée and also the Sunset Escape Rosé at Wine Island this year, both tasted amazing considering the price point and came in such beautiful packaging"
I would highly recommend this to anyone celebrating this Xmas and NY! Enjoy
Perfect Summer gift. A fantastic, high quality drop to match it's impeccable packaging. Will be using them as Corporate gifts this Christmas.
Absolutely loved it. Was the perfect gift for my wife and came in the most stunning box.
Went extremely well at the start of our meal to get the taste buds going.

subset: commoncrawl


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Recent Posts
Featured Posts
Children & PMS Just Don't Mesh
October 6, 2015
I'm noticing that the older I get, the meaner I am when I'm PMS-ing. I know you know what I mean (or at least just pretend you do, for my sake). The acute crankiness that overtakes me every 27-or-so days is like a people repellant, or it should be. I feel like I should wear this shirt for about three days each month to protect everyone around me:
I was sitting next to my husband the other morning and he cleared his throat three times. Innocently. Unknowingly.
Poor husband.
"Um, can you not DO that?" - me
"Do what?" - poor husband
"That annoying thing you're doing with your throat. That loud, coughing, throat-clearing thing. DUH." - me
"I don't know what you're talking about." - poor husband
"Mmmmmmmhmmmm. Sure. Whatever, it's fine, keep doing it. I'm just going to gouge my eardrums out, but it's no big deal." - me
"Sooooo...do you need some alone time?" - poor, SMART husband
That was a mild interaction. You should've seen what went down when he touched my leg with his toenail by accident. #NotPretty
Even strangers annoy me when I'm flying the Japanese flag (yes, I'm going to throw in the most obscure references to Aunt Flow I can find - you're welcome). We were headed to a party the other night and when we arrived I saw that we were parked behind two old people who were getting out of their Buick at the same time we were. The lady had a casserole dish, and did I mention that they were old? Of course I did, I said they were driving a Buick. Instantly I was annoyed by the old people and their casserole dish. "If there are going to be geriatrics at this party, we can just pack it right back up and go home, because I do NOT feel like spending my evening socializing with random old strangers," I said to my husband, who stared at me like I was an alien. I might as well have been. I actually uttered that exact sentence. AND MEANT IT. Who am I??? Don't answer that.
I feel like there needs to be a guidebook for the people in my life who have to interact with me every month when there are communists in the funhouse, as the Danes would say. My children especially need a copy of this non-existent book. It would help them understand Mean Mommy a little bit better.
(On a side note, can I just say that it's ironic to me that our children annoy us the absolute most when PMS rolls into town, yet the whole entire reason we HAVE PMS is so we can CONCEIVE CHILDREN! #CanIGetAWitness?)
I can think of a million reasons why children and PMS don't mesh; however, for the sake of time, I will just share five.
When I'm PMS-ing:
My children always talk to me. Like, all the time. "Mom, Mom, Mom, Mommy, Mom, Mother, MOOOOOMMMMMMMMMY." The "moms" are usually followed by one of two things: 1) tattling, or 2) the same question I already gave them an answer to 30 seconds prior. It's cute how they think if they ask 17 times, or rephrase the question, my answer will be different. And by cute, I mean infuriating. Especially three certain days of every month.
My children always touch me, and when I'm PMSy I don't want to be touched. Like, by anyone, ever. Unless (s)he's a masseuse, in which case all the touching should happen all the time. 24/7. My hula-hoop space automatically expands to a keep-your-distance radius of 15 feet when I'm about to join the cast of Pad Men (yes, yes I did), so when my four-year-old decides to come and tackle me from behind while I'm sitting on the ground, ultimately hanging on my neck and yanking my head into baby-bird position, I can't be held liable for the things I say or do. Well, I can, because I'm an adult, but the struggle is real.
My children always need stuff from me, like meals and rides to school, but I don't want to do said stuff because I just want to not do anything I don't feel like doing whenever I feel like it. Make sense?
My children always speak at a level that's 500% louder than normal for three days each month and then I feel like my ear drums are going to burst at any moment, which does not, in fact, happen, but still, it's conceivable.
My children inevitably poke my tummy because it's extra-fluffy and ask me why it's so "poochy" if there's no baby in there, and then I sit in the corner and suck my thumb and cry, making it apparent that there are already enough babies in our house and that's why there's not one in my poochy, bloated pouch.
People, this is real life.
As much as I'd like to say that I'm a pure delight the other 27 days a month, that's not necessarily the truth. I am kind of a mess. I hope there are more good days than bad, and I hope that I am selfless more often than I am selfish (people close to me would probably say that's debatable). All of the good and all of the selflessness comes from Jesus. All the other stuff...well, that's me. I'm a selfish, irritable, broken vessel who is somehow supposed to raise three tiny humans into functioning adults. No pressure, right?! Thankfully, He doesn't expect us to have it all together, as 2 Corinthians 4 points out:
"Remember, our Message is not about ourselves; we're proclaiming Jesus Christ, the Master. All we are is messengers, errand runners from Jesus for you. It started when God said, "Light up the darkness!" and our lives filled up with light as we saw and understood God in the face of Christ, all bright and beautiful.
"If you only look at us, you might well miss the brightness. We carry this precious Message around in the unadorned clay pots of our ordinary lives. That's to prevent anyone from confusing God's incomparable power with us. As it is, there's not much chance of that. You know for yourselves that we're not much to look at."
He is all that is good and He knows that we're "not much to look at." The great news is that God meets us where we are. When I'm low, God reaches out a little farther and goes more than halfway and finds me where I am. And loves me where I am. Where we're at our worst, He shines most brightly. When we think our kids are never going to remember NICE MOMMY, we have to remember that, because the Spirit of God lives inside those who trust Christ as their Savior, they will still see Jesus in us.
And when we sin against our kids by allowing our perceived rights or selfishness or hormonal-ness to overtake us as mothers, when we lash out or act huffy and annoyed when they want all the stuff from us all the time, we can STILL show them Jesus and point them to Him by coming to them in humility, no matter their ages. We can apologize and ask for their forgiveness, and then remind them that OUR SIN is a great reminder of why THEY need Jesus. We will NEVER be perfect as their parents, and their only perfect parent will ever be God the Father. It's a great transition into the Gospel.
Which is good, because I sin against my kids a lot. So they see their need for Jesus a LOT.
You're welcome, kids.
In my house, Nice Mommy is currently back. Everyone can breathe a sigh of relief. My kids can talk to me without worrying that I'm going to turn on a dime. They can touch me and receive physical affection in return. They can ask me to do basic things like prepare them breakfast and I do it semi-cheerful, or as cheerfully as one can at 6:30am. Things are at peace and will remain this way for approximately 27 days. And then...
Feel free to laugh!


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Today was our last day of clinic in the Huilloc community and it was action-packed! The day began by finishing up medical and dental care for the last set of patients. Throughout our entire time in the Hullioc community we were able to treat 237 patients – YAY! As a group, we are thrilled and honored to be able to reach that many patients in this rural Peruvian community. With having only very limited access to healthcare in their community, the patients were beyond grateful for our services.
Once all the patients had been seen and treated, there was a closing ceremony in order to conclude the past 3 days of our services. As part of the ceremony, we were able to donate 50 blankets to 50 different families in the community! Through the closing words of the leaders of the Huilloc community, everyone could tell how incredibly gracious every Huilloc community member was. It was truly rewarding and great to see everybody in the community so happy!
To conclude our day, there was the annual soccer cup – Huilloc vs. Oles! Every year big soccer (futbol) game is held at the stadium in the village as the two teams compete for the cup! It was a close one this year….. and unfortunately the Oles didn't quite have enough in them. We were defeated 6-5 in a hard-fought and fun-filled game! It was SO fun as everyone having was having a blast playing some futbol in the rain 🙂
Tomorrow we are headed to Machu Picchu and then back to Cusco. Stay tuned!
Caitlyn and Laelle


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Get the help you need, so you can focus on healing.
Order a gift online for a patient staying at St. Charles Bend.
A message from St. Charles Health System President and CEO Joe Sluka.
Read More
Tags: Patients, Prevention, Wellness, Caregivers, Community
Tags: Caregivers, Community, Patient Stories, Patients
St. Charles Health System and Redmond Fire & Rescue recently teamed up to train for the possibility of rapid labor and delivery.
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Surgeons at St. Charles Redmond recently performed the hospital's first procedure using a da Vinci Surgical System — commonly called a "robot" — which translates surgeons' hands into smaller, more precise movements.
Tags: Caregivers, Community
As residents of Warm Springs near a month without clean drinking water, caregivers at St. Charles have stepped up to help the community.
Tags: Community, Patients, Prevention
Tags: Community, Patient Stories, Patients, Prevention
Tags: Caregivers, Community, Philanthropy
Tags: Community
Tags: Community, Wellness
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As the percentage of unvaccinated children continues to grow, so grows our community's risk for acquiring devastating vaccine-preventable diseases.
Tags: Patients, Community, Education, Prevention
The Triple Aim for the Medicaid Population: Surprising Lessons from St. Charles Health System, Oregon
Tags: Caregivers, Community, Patients
St. Charles welcomes new CEO, Joseph Sluka
Behind the scenes: St. Charles Bend tower remodel project
"I just thought, 'I'm going to shave my head to show my support,'" Reed said. "My inspiration was knowing that Tracy is fighting the battle of her life right now."
Tags: Philanthropy, Community, Caregivers
If you had asked me to donate $3,175 to charity in 2013 I would have said, "No." My family was struggling with the impact of cancer. We're still struggling with that today. Still, my wife and I set out to support a friend's MS fundraiser.
Tags: Caregivers, Philanthropy, Community
It starts with hand sanitizer and ends with a tourniquet around a handrail and a dash across the finish line.
Tags: Caregivers, Community, Celebration
Two members of the St. Charles Health System family will proudly represent the organization while participating in the 118th Boston Marathon on Monday, April 21.
Tags: Caregivers, Philanthropy, Community, Wellness
Jim Lanier, a building specialist in the Facilities department at St. Charles Bend, was in for his regular trim when the barber started telling him about 8-year-old Mason Procknow.
Tags: Community, Caregivers
About a year ago, a woman named Alison Corey contacted me and said she needed help. Her friend, Mary Hammond, a long-time St. Charles Bend nurse, had been diagnosed with...
Tags: Community, Patients, Education, Caregivers
Flu season has arrived in Oregon and St. Charles Health System encourages community members to take important flu prevention precautions.
Tags: Education, AHEC, Community, Wellness


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The Times-Picayune
March 28, 2018
March 9, 1945 - March 17, 2018 "I'm glad my trip to this life was long and amazingly free. I did everything fearlessly." Our beloved Janet lost her battle with cancer in Silver Lake surrounded by loved ones. Born in Binghamton, New York to Hannah Jacobs and Joseph Hughes, the family soon moved to the New Orleans suburb of Metairie, Louisiana. Janet loved all things New Orleans—the people, food, music, and rich culture. She participated in and documented Mardi Gras celebrations, jazz funerals, and the Mardi Gras Indians. She marched with the Society of St. Anne, known for their elaborate costumes. As a young adult, Janet moved to New York City, joining the anti Viet Nam war movement as well as Andy Warhol's Factory. In 1978, Janet relocated to Los Angeles with her son Beau and opened the iconic C.A.S.H. (Contemporary Artists Space of Hollywood) club and gallery in 1981, serving her famous red beans and rice for $5 and showcasing punk music and art. She parlayed her support of the punk underground and became a casting director, employing many of the artists and musicians who frequented C.A.S.H. Her generous spirit gave them shelter, a job and a meal. Scores of artists and musicians credit Janet with help in their early careers. Her credits include a long list of feature films (Body Double and Ghostbusters) as well as several TV series (The Wonder Years, Hill Street Blues) and numerous music videos for Steve Perry, Chicago, and "Weird Al" Yankovic among others. In recent years she returned to her first profession as a landscape designer, using native plants whenever possible. She was also a community leader, serving on the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council. Janet was Facebook before Facebook connecting people from her wide network of friends. Her parties were legendary and always open to everyone who could count on her trademark finger sandwiches and deviled eggs. All will miss her. Laissez les bon temps rouler! Janet is survived by her mother, Hannah Cunningham, her siblings Kay Gillum, Mary Beth Nogues, Fred Cunningham, Karay Klein and Debbie Rubiano. Her son, Beauregard Baker predeceased her in 1986. Memorial services will be held at The Red Lion Tavern in Silver Lake, 3:00pm, March 31. In lieu of flowers, please donate to New Orleans Musicians' Clinic and Assistance Foundation
CUNNINGHAM, Janet
Born: 3/9/1945, Binghamton, New York, U.S.A.
Died: 3/17/2018, Silver Lake, Louisiana, U.S.A.
Janet Cunningham's western – casting director:
Purgatory (TV) - 1999


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Nicola Earring
$48.00 $98.00
Delicate beaded teardrop hoop earrings topped with a gemstone. In rich gunmetal and hunter green or ethereal blush.
2.5"H x 1"W. Glass and gold-plated beads. Gold-plate over brass wire. Crystal gemstones.
bluma project will happily accept unworn or defective merchandise, with tags attached in original packaging, for a full refund or exchange within 14 days from the purchase date. Items cannot be returned after 14 days of the purchase date.
Sale merchandise marked "final sale" is not refundable or exchangeable, all other sale items may be returned.
Please note: Shipping and handling costs on returned items are non-refundable.
We are unable to process returns for any bluma project items purchased from an outside retailer.
*Upon receipt of returned goods, bluma project reserves the right to deny the refund if the merchandise does not meet policy standards.
How to make a Return:
Please send all returns to:
bluma project
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Suite 237
Brooklyn, NY 11205
How to make an exchange:
Please email us at firstname.lastname@example.com, and we will assist you with your return, exchange or reorder of new merchandise.
Please contact email@example.com with any questions or concerns.
Please allow 1-3 business days for your order to be processed and shipped out.


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Our Favourite Lipsticks for a Whiter, Brighter Smile | So, now you know the science behind faking your way to pearly whites, take a look at our favourite lipsticks. Here are three of our go-to shades for emphasising our smiles.
Rimmel London Lasting Finish Lipstick by Kate Moss #31 (£5.49) – Created and endorsed by legendary model Kate Moss, this high-intensity lippie is great if you're looking for a long-lasting lipstick that can get you through a busy working day or a hard night of partying. Plus, its black diamond infused formula reflects light beautifully.
*All colour swatches and lipstick images taken from each brands' websites
If a stylish lipstick just won't cut it, then brighten your smile with a professional teeth whitening treatment from The Smile Dentist by Dr Rob. With a 5 star, VIP treatment and 100% guarantee, The Smile Dentist is the perfect place to enhance your pearly whites.
*This is a guest post written for Dolly Dowsie


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Starting with your rough floor plan, we can design your home and take it to completion, ready for you to move in.
It starts with a design that suits your life style. We incorporate energy efficient materials and products whever possible. We adapt a plan to best suit your location. We do conventional framing designs as well as timber frames. If you already have plans, we will be happy to price them for you.
We mill all the trim and flooring, turn our balusters, build the stairs and make the cabinets.
For roofing, plumbing and electrical, we subcontract to dedicated tradespeople who know how to work with a timberframe.
We always use the same company to pour the foundation because it's incredibly important to get it right, and they always do.
We even do the interior detailing such as painting and staining. Our decorator can work with you to select colours, if you wish, and will let you know how they look once they are on the walls.
We keep our clients updated with weekly pictures on the progress of their home via digital photos and e-mail.
With basic, good quality finishes, the cost of building a timberframe house starts at $200 per sq. ft. of floor area. Custom finishes – tiles, choice of wood species, flooring, etc. – can add to that price.
Typically, a timberframe house costs 15 - 20% more to build than a conventionally framed house of the same size. For that price, however, you're getting a custom-built house that will last many lifetimes. You're also getting the look and feel that only a timberframe home can provide.


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Wearable and elegant with defined textures. Our Braided Stacking Ring is a refined piece that completes any collection. The thick band is hand formed into a unique design with intricate details. A true statement piece that can be worn alone or as a stackable set.
Measures 1/8" thick
Handmade in Seattle | Fresh Tangerine
Free shipping on all U.S. orders
Orders are shipped within 7 days of the payment/purchase date. Please keep in mind that we make everything by hand in our studio and certain pieces are made to order.
We accept returns on unworn pieces in their original condition within 14 days of receipt.
Read more about our Shipping and Return/Exchange policies here.
Ring Sizing
Not sure which ring size to order? Order one of our ring sizers to find the perfect size! Can't wait? Head over to http://findmyringsize.com, or use our printable worksheet to find your ring size.
Looking for a midi ring? Order size 2-4. If your finger is a size 5-6, we recommend ordering a 2. If your finger is a size 7, we recommend ordering a 3. If your finger is a size 8-9, we recommend ordering a size 4.
Necklace Sizing
1. Metal hates moisture. We recommend not showering with our jewelry and storing pieces in an airtight bag when not in use.
2. 14k gold fill, 14k yellow gold and 14k white gold can be cleaned with a mild dish soap, hot water and a gentle cloth.
3. Sterling silver will tarnish over time. To bring it back to its original state, gently rub with a polishing cloth or use baking soda and a soft cloth.
A simple, delicate band for any occasion. Our Classic Stacking Ring is hand formed into a smooth, rounded surface with subtle shine. Its clean design is the right blend of approachable and elegant and can be worn alone or in multiples.
A carefully hammered band for added texture. Our Hammered Stacking Ring is hand formed with delicate textures that catch subtle hints of light. The simple and unique design is ideal for everyday wear and can be styled alone or in multiples.
Lightweight and delicate, our Twisted Stacking Ring is hand formed into a thin textured band. Understated yet elegant, this ring is beautiful worn alone or in multiples to create a shimmering ring stack.
Stunning geometric accents make an impact with the Meandering Ring. Its distinct textures and well-defined structure are equally delicate and bold. Worn alone, the Meandering Ring is minimal and unique. Or pair with a light band or two for something drastic.
The Heart Ring is a cherished and meaningful piece. Its delicate shape and sweet, simple charm invites warmth and beauty. Each hand formed heart is soldered to a simple band to create a unique ring that can be worn alone or in multiples.
A stunning organic shape makes the perfect accent. The Geode Ring is a delicate and structural piece, full of elegance and subtle glamor. Each hand formed geode is soldered to a simple band to create a unique ring that can be worn alone or in multiples.
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This Shelgon is a dragon-type Pokémon owned by Michelle.
As the heroes were traveling, they encountered a Bagon on a top of a cliff. The Bagon jumped down, making the heroes mistake it was to attack them and ran off, as Bagon smashed a rock. Bagon returned to the cliff, as Ash sent Taillow to attack it. Bagon made another jump, so Taillow used Wing Attack on it. Bagon's trainer, Michelle, arrived and accused of them attacking Bagon, but were explained they thought Bagon was attacking them. Michelle understood and explained she was training Bagon to evolve into into Shelgon, then into a Salamence, as Bagon wanted to fly, hence why it jumped down a cliff. To help them out, Ash challenged Michelle to a battle. Pikachu started off with Quick Attack, but missed, as Michelle coordinated its moves. Bagon retaliated with Headbutt and nearly hit Pikachu with the attack. Pikachu retaliated with Thunderbolt, which hit Bagon, who managed to hit Pikachu with Headbutt. Surprisingly for Michelle and Bagon, Pikachu stood up and emitted Thunder on Bagon, then dodged its Headbutt attack. Bagon dodged Pikachu's Thunderbolt and clashed with its Iron Tail attack. In the middle of the battle, Team Rocket appeared and Meowth grabbed Bagon. However, due to Ash's Treecko's Bullet Seed, Team Rocket dropped the remote, causing Meowth and Bagon to fly off in a direction. After having a rough landing, Meowth was told Bagon wanted to use the jetpack to fly, making Meowth remember the time he practiced human speech, as Jessie and James came. The heroes arrived as well and while Pikachu freed Bagon, the former was captured by Team Rocket. Using the jetpack, Bagon and Treecko flew off and rescued Pikachu, who blasted Team Rocket away. Once they descended down, Bagon was glad about this experience and evolved into a Shelgon. Michelle was glad and hugged Shelgon, seeing Bagon was closer to its dream.
Known moves
|AG043: Let Bagons Be Bagons


text: Loved our visit to Tallinn, Estonia. This small country with a population of only 431,000 people was founded in 1154 A.D. and is one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe. In 1991, Estonia declared its independence from the Soviet Union. The City Square is comprised of the Lower Old Town and Upper Town. This is a city of architectural splendor and the kind of place you just want to slow down and take it all in. We did just that spending plenty of time walking and eating our way through the city of Tallinn.


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September 21, 2012
Communications and Marketing
(603) 641-7242
On September 27, the Dana Center for the Humanities at Saint Anselm College opens its 32nd season of performing arts with an international sensation, Fatoumata Diawara and Band.
This year's schedule includes styles both traditional and visionary from Afro-Caribbean jazz to classical vocal masterworks from the national Choir of Taiwan. Innovative theatre works developed in Scotland can be found on stage as well we America's most acclaimed black and Latino contemporary dance companies.
In addition to performances by national and international artists, the college's student theatre group, the Abbey Players and the student choir perform.
See the Dana Center website for the full schedule.
Image: Ailey II Dance
Performing Saturday, Oct. 13 at 7:30 p.m. More information


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Visit Shipping & Returns and Terms of Use pages to learn about our policies
Mon-Fri 9am-6pm
Frames designed with spring hinges offer more than just excellent durability. Try out this little trick: Only have one hand free? Just insert one thumb underneath both temples and lift it. The spring-loaded design will let you open up your favorite pair with just a single finger. No effort required. No fuss needed.
Spring hinged frames offer the best in terms of durability. However, the extra toughness does come at a price. While the lifespans of spring hinged glasses are much longer than those of standard hinged glasses, the process to repair them is much more intricate.
When it comes to regular framed glasses, EyeBuyDirect happily provides specialized screwdrivers so that customers can personally make small tweaks and repairs. However, spring-hinged glasses are more complex to salvage and might have to be taken in for professional repairs. Unless you're an expert DIYer, we recommend paying a visit to your local eyewear shop.


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When investing for the long term, beating inflation is essential to retain the purchasing power of your money. But how do you do this? Monitoring the price increase of a burger over time provides valuable insights and emphasises two investment essentials – having sufficient equity exposure and diversifying internationally.
The Big Mac Index – the price of a burger should level out between countries over the long term
"The Economist" has been using the Big Mac Index since 1986 to calculate fair exchange rates between countries, based on the theory of purchasing power parity (PPP). In simple terms, the theory of PPP states that, in the long run, exchange rates should move towards the rate that would level the prices of an identical basket of goods and services (in this case, a burger) in any two countries. "Burgernomics" shows that a Big Mac, for example, currently costs $4.93 in the US and $1.77 in South Africa, implying that the rand is currently undervalued by 64%. Of course there are many justifiable reasons why a Big Mac should be cheaper in poorer countries. However, even taking into account South Africa's lower GDP per capita, the rand is still undervalued by around 40%.
History shows that increases in burger prices foreshadow increases in inflation
A menu from popular local family restaurant Spur dating back to 1973 (see Figure 1) provides a different perspective on the economics of burgers. (It also makes for a very entertaining read.) Today, a Spur burger, including French fries and fried onion rings, will cost you R65.90. In 1973, a Spur burger at the Lone Spur (also with "French fried onion rings" and "French fried potatoes") would have cost you 50c. That equates to an annualised price increase of 12.0% per year. The rise in the price of a Spur burger foreshadows the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which has averaged 9.4% per year (according to Stats SA and Inet) over the same period.
A small difference in price increases can make a big difference over time
Although 3% (the difference between CPI of 9% and Spur's annual increase of 12%) may not sound like much, the impact of this on your purchasing power over 43 years is significant. If you take 50c and inflate it by the CPI of 9.4%, a Spur burger should cost about R23.73 today, which is half the actual price of R65.90 (see Figure 2). What's worse is that the Spur burger in 1973 weighed 227g, whereas a Spur burger today weighs just 160g, which is 30% less. The real price increase of a Spur burger of the same weight is therefore in fact 0.7% per year higher than 12%, bringing the annualised price increase closer to 13%.
Comparing the price of a burger over time accounts for a comprehensive inflation adjustment
After adjusting for inflation, each rand buys substantially less than it did 45 years ago. The 50c that it cost to buy a Spur burger in 1973 would buy just over one third of a Spur burger in today's terms. While CPI is a complex calculation based on a basket of goods and services that changes over time, the Spur burger is a constant proxy of all the standard items that go into making a burger: the patty (beef, spices, basting sauce, gas to cook the patty), the bun (wheat, water, salt), fries (potatoes, oil to fry the chips), onions, tomatoes, the cost of labour, rental cost, depreciation (shop fittings, kitchen equipment), electricity, rates, taxes and transport costs.
The implications? Investors need a higher income, which requires equity exposure
There are two main implications of increasing prices to point out. Firstly, costs are increasing faster than the South African government suggests through measures like CPI. Individuals need more income today (after adjusting for inflation) to sustain the same level of consumption they had in the past. Secondly, we need to challenge the long-established, conservative asset allocation frameworks that tend to have an underweight allocation to equities. For example, cash has returned [ds_popup_explanation data='Calculations are annualised from 1970 since no data was available for 1973. Source: Elroy Dimson, Paul Marsh and Mike Staunton in association with Credit Suisse Global Investment Returns Sourcebook, 2016 ']11.4%[/ds_popup_explanation] per year over roughly the same period (1970-2015) and would not have kept up with the rising cost of a Spur burger. Bonds returned 11.3% and also underperformed the rising burger price. Only equities, with annualised returns of [ds_popup_explanation data='While we do not have total returns from property over the same period, property has delivered returns of 16.7% since 1976, versus 21.7% from equities. Source: SBG Securities, "SA asset class performance, a long-term history"']17.4%[/ds_popup_explanation] would have exceeded the price increase of a Spur burger over the past 40 years.
A long-term market overview shows that equities can help you maintain your purchasing power
The primary objective of long-term investing is to ensure your savings have the best chance of beating inflation for the least amount of risk. In this context, risk is defined as a permanent loss of capital. Interestingly, over the past 56 years, equities have outperformed all other asset classes 63% of the time, with bonds and cash coming out tops just 20% and 14% of the time respectively. Over all five-year rolling periods since 1956 (of which there are 56), equities were the best-performing asset class 85% of the time. In fact, there are only two five-year rolling periods since 1960 when equities did not outperform inflation. Cash and bonds underperformed inflation in 21 and 18 five-year rolling periods respectively.
The challenge of keeping up with inflation is not unique to South Africa
In the US, a Big Mac cost 65c in 1973. With CPI in the US averaging 4.1%, a Big Mac should sell for $3.61 today. However, the actual price of a Big Mac burger today is $4.93, indicating an annual increase of 4.8%.
Your financial planning should take into account rising costs internationally
In addition to ensuring your savings retain its purchasing power in rands, one can argue that your savings should also keep up with the rising costs of living outside of South Africa.
With this in mind, if you go back in time to 1973, a Big Mac burger in the US would have cost [ds_popup_explanation data='$0.65 at an exchange rate of R0.67 per $1.00′]R0.43[/ds_popup_explanation]. Today, it would cost [ds_popup_explanation data='$4.93 at an exchange rate of R15.50 per $1.00 (exchange rate as at 31 December 2015)']R76.00[/ds_popup_explanation] for the same burger, an annual rate of increase of 12.8%. In constant rand terms, the R0.43 would buy you [ds_popup_explanation data='R0.43 inflated by a South African CPI rate of 9.4% per year and converted into US dollars at an exchange rate of R15.50 = $1.33 versus the current price of $4.93 (i.e. 27%)']less than a third of a Big Mac in the US today[/ds_popup_explanation]. In Switzerland, the cost of a Big Mac in rands has increased by 13.3% per year, which means you would only be able to afford a quarter of a Big Mac in Zurich today (see Figure 3).
To offset the rising price of a Big Mac overseas, you would have to generate a return on your savings well ahead of CPI in South Africa. We already know that the South African equity market has returned 17.4% since 1970, which is comfortably ahead of the price increase of a Big Mac in both the US and Switzerland in rands. However, equity returns in South Africa rank behind both these markets' equity performances when measured in rands, as can be seen in Figure 4.
Although returns in South Africa and the US have been quite similar over the past 46 years, they are somewhat below that of Switzerland. This overview proves the potential benefits of diversification. Investing equal amounts in each of these three countries would have delivered a similar outcome than investing everything in one country but at a much lower level of risk arising from geographic diversification.
Making smart investment decisions today can give you peace of mind about tomorrow
The headwinds that we South Africans face in generating adequate returns on our savings are greater than the statisticians will have us believe. Local equities have given us the best shot at ensuring our savings outpace the rising cost of living. However, future returns may be lower, which means it may be prudent to diversify internationally. The recent events on the local front are an important reminder of the benefits of investing a significant portion of your savings outside South Africa, providing the best chance of beating inflation with a much lower risk of a capital loss.
At Denker Capital, we manage a range of local and international equity funds to meet our clients' risk profile. Please refer to our website or contact Francois Krüger for more information.
By Ricco Friedrich
Portfolio Manager


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|By Liz McMillan
Article Rating:
|October 29, 2009 10:00 AM EDT
As the pressure mounts to meet more stringent budgets, CIOs need to find the proper balance between transforming IT and reducing costs. IT operational costs continue to increase as a percentage of overall IT dollars. At the same time, IT is being pressured to provide an innovative, competitive advantage for the business.
Will the Enterprise Cloud support both? Can the Enterprise Cloud make infrastructure operations faster, easier, cheaper, and safer while also unleashing the transformative creativity of the workforce? Will the Cloud be both a strong efficiency play as well as the Infrastructure's Ultimate Revenge by positioning IT to be the accelerator of corporate strategy instead of its bottleneck? All these questions, plus many more will be answered for you by Jill Singer during her session.
The 4th International Cloud Computing Conference & Expo is co-located with the 7th International Virtualization Conference & Expo and will be taking place November 2-4, 2009 at the Santa Clara Convention Center, Santa Clara, CA.
Register Today and Save!
Sponsor and/or Exhibit Today
View Full Conference Schedule
In this session, Deputy Chief Information Officer at the Central Intelligence Agency(CIA) will discuss how Enterprise Cloud Computing naturally fits in your overall technology strategic plan and how you can convince your boss to love the Cloud.
About the Speaker
Jill Tummler Singer is Deputy Chief Information Officer at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). She was appointed in November 2006 and is responsible for ensuring CIA has the information, technology, and infrastructure necessary to effectively execute its missions. Prior to her appointment as Deputy CIO, Ms. Singer served as the Director of the Diplomatic Telecommunications Service (DTS), United States Department of State, and was responsible for global network services to US foreign missions. She has served in several senior leadership positions within the Federal Government. She was the head of Systems Engineering, Architecture, and Planning for CIA's global infrastructure organization. She served as the Director of Architecture and Implementation for the Intelligence Community CIO and pioneered the technology and management concepts that are the basis for multi-agency secure collaboration. She also served within CIA's Directorate of Science.
4th International Cloud Computing Conference & Expo
At the 4th International Cloud Computing Conference & Expo, November 2-4, 2009, being held in the Santa Clara Convention Center, Santa Clara, CA, more than 1,500 delegates will find out how cloud computing is transforming the way that enterprises everywhere build and deploy applications. Now held three times a year - in New York, Prague, and Santa Clara - the Cloud Computing Conference & Expo series is the fastest-growing Enterprise IT event, devoted to every aspect of delivering massively scalable enterprise IT as a service. The event is co-located with our 7th International Virtualization Conference & Expo.
More Than 100 Cloud Sessions by a Rock Star Faculty
4th International Cloud Computing Conference & Expo in November will offer 100+ technical breakout sessions, 120 speakers from 80+ leading companies, three top major industry keynotes, two Power Panels, SYS-CON.TV interviews with industry luminaries, product launches and other special events plus a 2-Day Expo Floor - there's no event with a technical program as wide and deep. If you're already a Cloud player - or would like to be - this is the one event to attend this year.
"Bringing the Economics of the Web to Enterprise IT Through Cloud Computing" is the conference theme and our organizing principle is that through our intensive three-day schedule of keynotes, and general and breakout sessions, attending delegates will be assured of leaving the Conference with abundant resources, ideas and examples they can apply immediately to leveraging the Cloud, helping them to maximize performance, minimize cost and improve the scale of their endeavors.
Introducing "SOA in the Cloud" and "RIAs in the Cloud"
4th International Cloud Computing Conference & Expo in November will introduce two new and dedicated tracks - "SOA in the Cloud" and "RIAs in the Cloud" - which will examine how service oriented architecture, AJAX, rich internet applications, enterprise mashups, social media and Web 2.0 find their new place in the Cloud.
Now is the time to take the Cloud seriously. And the Santa Clara Convention Center, at the 4th Cloud Computing Expo (Nov 2-4), is the perfect place to do it!
4th International Cloud Computing Conference & Expo Keynotes:
Cloud Computing Expo keynotes will be delivered by Richard Marcello, Unisys President of Systems & Technology; Shelton Shugar, Yahoo! SVP Cloud Computing; and Richard Sarwal, Oracle VP of Development for Enterprise Manager.
Conference Chair Jeremy Geelan with Jill Tummler Singer at GovIT Expo
Delegate Registration Options:
Cloud Computing Expo ( www.CloudComputingExpo.com) delegates can pre-register for the conference online with $800 savings at https://www3.sys-con.com/cloud1109/registernew.cfm.
Expo Plus registration which costs $300 also allows conference delegates to attend two free technical sessions per day for three days, access to the expo floor, keynotes, vendor technology presentations, as well as live taping of SYS-CON.TV power panels.
Sponsors and Exhibitors:
Sponsors and exhibitors of the upcoming 4th International Cloud Computing Conference & Expo (November 2-4, 2009, Santa Clara Convention Center, Santa Clara, CA) represent the leading technology providers of Cloud Computing revolution, including:
Oracle (www.oracle.com / platinum sponsor)
Unisys (www.unisys.com / platinum sponsor)
Yahoo! (www.yahoo.com / platinum sponsor)
Adaptivity (www.adaptivity.com / gold sponsor)
Bycast (www.bycast.com / gold sponsor)
EMC (www.emc.com / gold sponsor)
Intel (www.intel.com / gold sponsor)
3Tera (www.3tera.com / silver sponsor)
Akamai (www.akamai.com / silver sponsor)
AppZero (www.appzero.com / silver sponsor)
Rackspace Cloud (www.rackspacecloud.com / silver sponsor)
CloudTest SOASTA (www.soasta.com / silver sponsor)
Objectivity (www.objectivity.com / silver sponsor)
Stoneware (www.stone-ware.com / silver sponsor)
Sybase (www.sybase.com / silver sponsor)
ExactTarget (www.exacttarget.com / bronze sponsor)
New Relic (www.newrelic.com / bronze sponsor)
ParaScale (www.parascale.com / bronze sponsor)
PerspecSys (www.perspecsys.com /bronze sponsor)
The Planet (www.theplanet.com /bronze sponsor)
RightScale (www.rightscale.com / bronze sponsor)
Switch and Data (www.switchanddata.com. / bronze sponsor)
Vizioncore (www.vizioncore.com / bronze sponsor)
CloudSwitch (www.cloudswitch.com / bronze sponsor)
Tranxition (www.tranxition.com / bronze sponsor)
Altor Networks (www.altornetworks.com / exhibitor)
Dasher (www.dashertechnologies.com / exhibitor)
HP (www.hp.com / exhibitor)
Hubspan (www.hubspan.com / exhibitor)
LSI (www.lsi.com / exhibitor)
M/Gateway (www.mgateway.com/ewd.htm / exhibitor)
Neustar (www.neustar.biz / exhibitor)
OpSource (www.opsource.net / exhibitor)
Rhomobile (www.rhomobile.com / exhibitor)
Ulitzer (www.ulitzer.com / sponsor)
Zetta (www.zetta.net / exhibitor)
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Sponsorship and exhibit opportunities can be obtained from Carmen Gonzalez by email at events (at) sys-con.com, by phone 201 802 3021.
SYS-CON's International Cloud Computing Conference & Expo, held each year in California, New York and Prague is the leading event covering the fast-emerging Cloud Computing market for Enterprise IT professionals. Co-located with the International Virtualization Conference & Expo, the combined event delivers the #1 i-technology educational and networking opportunity of the year for those seeking to establish a market lead anywhere in the multiple layers of the Cloud Computing ecosystem.
- The Top 150 Players in Cloud Computing
- Cloud Expo New York Call for Papers Now Open
- Cloud Expo 2011 East To Attract 10,000 Delegates and 200 Exhibitors
- Cloud Expo New York to Attract More Than 8,000 Delegates
- Industry Experts Discuss the State of Cloud Computing
- Publishing Synergy: Blog, Twitter and Ulitzer
- NPR Asks: Will Cloud Computing Work in the White House?
- The Five Characteristics of Cloud Computing
- CIA was Headed to an Enterprise Cloud All Along: Jill Tummler Singer
- Cloud Expo New York Speaker Profile: Jill T. Singer – Federal CIO Emeritus


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6th May 2016
Overall, the onshore rig count declined this week, down 4 (1%) while conversely, across the three major oil basins, rigs reversed a six-week decline trend and increased by 1. This begs the question: have recent oil price increases been enough to bring optimism for the future? The outlook for commodity prices is improving and Halliburton's CEO indicated this week that in his view the U.S. rig count may have bottomed out and will likely start to rise later this year.
Previous Weeks
29 Apr 2016 - Confidence, Not Instant Gratification, Is What Is Required
22 Apr 2016 - (As Always) Crude Price is Reacting to Supply and Demand Fundamentals
15 Apr 2016 - Oil Glut Is Diminishing: When – Not If – Will U.S. LTO Production Respond?
Related Articles
Growth and Future Prospects of Central Atlantic African Exploration
15 months later: Canadian LNG in the penalty box?
Evolving Natural Gas Paradigms – Risks and Opportunities for Industry Participants
In the immediate term, weakness in crude oil prices early in the week were reversed by three supply disruptions: the worst wildfire in Alberta's history, which is threatening Canada's oil sands region; escalating tensions in Libya; and other various global outages. These events sparked concern about a near-term crude oil supply shortage, and served as a reminder that supply-demand balances can change quite fast. However, as crude stocks are relatively high at the moment, price did not spike as much as it otherwise might have done. The key takeaway on this is that the market temporarily did price in the aforementioned supply disruptions. By contrast, last year when the market was substantially oversupplied (~2 million barrels per day), it would not have responded to losing half a million barrels a day.
As the crude market moves closer to balance, supply security will become an important talking point among energy ministers. Concerns that the current decline in upstream oil investments – about 40% over the past two years – could lead to higher prices has precipitated a dialog about policies that could facilitate oil investments and dampen future crude market volatility.
Such dialog may be too little too late. As GCA has previously stated (see 1 April 2016 Monitor), even if oil prices climbed substantially above US$60 per barrel due to supply disruption, U.S. crude production would be unable instantly (such as storage) to reverse its current trend of falling output. It would take years – not months – to mobilize the resources required to bring a significant number of rigs back to well pads.
Weekly Recaps
Drilling Activity
The total number of active onshore rigs now stands at 391, down 1,485 (~80%) from a November 2014 high of 1,876. Across the three major unconventional basins, the oil rig total increased to 190 (up 1 last week), with Eagle Ford down 3, Williston down 1, and Permian up 5. The horizontal rig count is now 318, down 6 last week.
Total U.S. rig count (including the Gulf of Mexico) stands at 415, down 5 last week, with rigs targeting oil down 4 for a 36-week total decline of 338. The average weekly decline rate slowed to ~9 rigs per week.
Oil Price
Oil prices fell as investors cashed in on a 20% rise over the past month, outweighing the impact of crude production cuts in Canada where a huge wildfire has disrupted oil sands operations.
Brent, the global benchmark for oil, was down about two bucks to US$45.85 a barrel, reflecting a loss of 4% on the week.
WTI crude slid seventy-nine cents to US$45.07 a barrel, down 2% on the week.
U.S. Supply and Demand
U.S. crude oil refinery inputs averaged 16 million barrels per day, with refineries at 89.7% of their operating capacity last week. This is 139,000 barrels per day more than the previous week's average.
U.S. gasoline demand over the past four weeks was at 9.5 million, up 5.8% from a year ago.
On the supply side, EIA data indicated that U.S. oil production in the Lower 48 was down 30,000 barrels per day, with total production at 8.395 million barrels per day. The past fifteen-week decline total stands at 324,000 barrels per day (an average of ~21,600 barrels per week).
U.S. crude imports averaged 7.7 million barrels per day last week, an increase of 110,000 barrels per day from the previous week. Over the last four weeks, crude oil imports averaged 7.8 million barrels per day, ~8.4% above the same four-week period last year.
Crude oil inventories increased 2.8 million barrels from the previous week and persist at historically high levels. The crude stored at Cushing (the main price point for WTI) saw an increase of 0.3 million barrels, pushing total storage to 66.3 million barrels (~87% utilization).
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- GCA Oil & Gas Monitor
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text:
Continued from Part 1
Grapefruit and weight loss research confirms grapefruit*, a high fiber, low glycemic food, (see others below) helps control insatiable snacking urges, and lowers insulin levels and weight.
This study helps me understand better why I'm able to maintain my weight and improve my sleep quality. ... By being selective with my snacking I'm balancing my ghrelin and leptin hormones.
My favourite--grapefruit--is just one of many great low glycemic foods that doesn't cause blood sugar to spike. I find its fresh, juicy and moderate sweetness, curbs my craving for carbohydrate-type foods, i.e., crackers, cookies, chocolate brownies. (see more low glycemic food choices below)
The more your blood sugar spikes, the more rapid your pancreas has to produce insulin. This is what leads to subsequent insulin resistance and future diseases such as diabetes, heart problems, stroke, cancer, and arthritis, to name a few.
The glycemic index is a measurement of how fast food items turns to sugar and then fat -- especially dangerous belly fat. Eating low glycemic foods lowers insulin levels and increases weight loss -- an effective and delicious fat preventative solution.
I can't imagine why anyone struggling with sleep and weight gain issues wouldn't try grapefruit. They go hand in hand -- grapefruit and weight loss.
Warning: Do not undo grapefruit's low glycemic and low sugar effect by sprinkling on sugar. You wouldn't add a spoonful of sugar to an orange, would you?
My favorite way to eat a grapefruit is to peel it and eat it segment by segment, just like an orange. Don't discard the membrane ... eat it! It's beneficial fiber. Discover the refreshing sweet and sour sensation and watch your waistline shrink.
In addition to supporting your sleep apnea weight loss, there are
many more health benefits from increasing your fiber, such as a
colorectal cancer preventative.
Grapefruit is only one of the high fiber, low glycemic foods to try for weight loss and overall good health. The following is a partial list of snacks, legumes (beans, lentils, dals), vegetables, fruits and whole grains that provide a greater feeling of fullness with a moderate effect on blood sugar levels.
New Study Concludes:
Grapefruit 'Significantly" Improves Cholesterol Levels
So in addition to grapefruit's weight loss, blood sugar regulating and sleep benefits, a new study by the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA has found a significant improvement in HDL-cholesterols levels in obese adults that were in either the grapefruit fruit or juice groups vs. those who were in the water group.
This study also confirmed grapefruit's effectiveness in
reducing fat,
waist circumference and weight.
Read the National Institutes of Health Pubmed research abstract here
The Grapefruit and Weight Loss Secret -- Try Low Glycemic Foods
Snacks, Nuts and Seeds:
Meat and Fish:
Legumes, Lentils and Dals:
Even though grapefruit is one of my favorite snacking foods, because of its many health and sleep benefits as mentioned here and in Part 1 , eating too much of a good thing negates beneficial effects. Adopt a moderate food consumption including grapefruit and weight loss will be your reward.Now that you know about the grapefruit and weight loss connection, you too can be in control of your health, sleep and weight by eating a balanced, nutritionally-rich diet by replacing your sugar and carbohydrate snack cravings with low glycemic foods.
Return to Homepage from Grapefruit and Weight Loss
Cushions for Oncology
BestEverSleep Cushions were recently donated to Toronto East General Hospital (Canada) to help improve patient comfort during chemotherapy treatments.
Now Available Online!
The BestEverSleep Cushion, designed by a recovering insomniac to help others alleviate pain and improve their quality of sleep, health and vitality is now available online – at lowest prices ever!
Wooo Hooo!
... we've been selected
(click on logo below for details)
Another independent site, Bragada Mattress Company, has honored us by recommending their valued customers and visitors visit us: We're #3 in their Top 10 Best Sleep Blogs Ever
And, yet another recognition bestowed on us:
We're #9 in the list of the "30 Best People to Get Sleep Training Advice From" by Babysitters.net.
... ranking close to renowned medical sleep experts at WebMD and sleep Dr. Michael Breus.


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Do you want to know more about Community Church? If so, we invite you to this casual luncheon with the Pastors. It's a great opportunity to learn about our beliefs, church practices and get connected to others who are new to our community. This class is also wonderful for those who have been here for awhile, but haven't yet become members.
To sign up for the next Newcomers' Lunch on Jan 5 (Sunday) at 1:15-2:30pm, please fill in the form below:


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Meet us at the Salons Solutions 2014
Salons Solutions 2014 Edition
This year, meet MLR CONSEIL at the Salons Solutions, on stand F45. This event will be help at the CNIT, La Défense in France, from September 30th (PM) til October 2nd 2014. It will be the perfect occasion to exchange about your projects and any question you may have.
You will have the oppotunity to discuss with our experts about the document automation projects, for inbound as well as outbound business processes. Find out the errors to avoid, the best practices to set up : such a useful information source ! You can also contact us if you would like to receive an invite.
Don't hesitate, come to our stand !
Tax compliant dematerialization in SAP
New partnership...
In late 2013, MLR Conseil has connected to DPii Telecom & Services. This company created in 1986, member of the GS1 group, is specialized in the treatment of electronic document flows with certificates. Their solution is already used by 500+ customers for their sales, purchasing and HR documents.
A partnership has naturally been signed between our 2 companies, since their business scope complete one another. MLR Conseil wants to be able to answer to the now common customer's question : "how do I get rid of the paper when I want to send a document and be tax compliant at the same time ?". MLR Conseil was not able to implement a solution until 2013, because of the technical background solution needed, and because of all the legal aspects in the tax compliant dematerialization. DPii Telecom & Services gives a solution to these 2 problems at the same time.
There was only one thing missing...
... and a new packaged solution !
The link between SAP and DPii's solution "EDC" ! This link has been provided by MLR Conseil's expertise, on a business scope point of view, but also on a technical point of view : MLR Conseil has developed the SAP interface needed to use EDC module directly in SAP.
The following video shows a demonstration of how EDC solution works within SAP on 2 examples : the purchase order and the customer invoice.
As you may have already understood, our collaboration has proved natural and benefits for our 2 companies can already been noticed. We hope that this will bring us to help our customers implementing this solution for their outgoing documents flows with high added value.
MLR Conseil can help you setting up your document automation projects, for incoming and outgoing documents. You have a project but don't know where to start ? Don't hesitate and contact us !
Using the document automation as a change management tool
Our customer A wants to set up a document automation process for his vendor invoices. He would like his team to improve their overall efficiency and would be happy if the ROI was fast.
Faced Problems
The customer is wondering many things about how to set up his project in the best way possible : « which documents should I try to automate ? which workflow should I implement ? Who are the person responsible for this kind of document in my company ? How can I adapt my future product to my company's way of working ? What treatments can be partially or fully automized ? ».
The answer to these questions and lots of other ones will definitely help this customer to set up a quality project. But he has to keep one thing in mind, he must not mix the goal and the tool : the customer's own organization is the source of all the answers.
Whatever the chosen software for the document automation project, it will only be a tool at the customer's project's service. The document automation project must never be enslaved to an old-school organisational model that does little or not work. A document automation project is a real opportuniy to have a closer look into the department organization, to enhance the responsilibities of decision makers in the company, responsabilize and to make the needed changes.
Setting up new tools can make easier the introduction of new business rules. End user scan interpret these new rules as mandatory options of the new software : « the new software makes it mandatory to have an electronic validation workflow for these invoices before paying the vendor », « the new software does not allow generic users to approve the invoices ». The important thing is to work efficiently some time before the actual document automation project on the wanted (or needed) organization of the company for the relevant process. These new processes must be considered with every needed actor, and giving them legitimity inside the company by explaining them is a good way of making them accepted.
On the other hand, the new tool must not be the culprit for all unwanted or non-understood decisions. If that was the case, it would be rejected by the end users, and the project could simply fail, even with the best project team investment possible.
Final word
It is really important to work on business processes before setting up a document automation project. The project itself is only to tool to make your ideas and new processes come true. This is why it is necessary to clearly identifiy the weak points and strong advantages of your organization, to responsibilize the key people. These steps will be the ones to help you improve your global efficiency.
MLR Conseil can help you in your change management during your projects. Any questions ? Don't hesitate and contact us !
The new "MLR Conseil" website is online !
After almost 3 years since its creation, it was time for MLR Conseil to get a new website, faster, clearer, more in relation with our view of the consulting world.
In this new Website, you will find the description of our values and competencies. We will keep the newsfeed updated with new articles every now and then, so don't hesitate to come and have a look whenever you can. We will write about the actual market and about business cases we have met with some customers.
If you have remarks or want to talk about projects or ideas, don't hesitate to contact us ! See you soon for the next news !
PS : a big thank you for Portobello's team who has worked with great value on this new website.


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"Hoop Kings"
In this book, Hoop Kings, poet Charles R. Smith Jr. captures the essence of each basketball player with metaphoric analogies that shoot readers straight into the game.
This story promotes creative components of imagination, flexible thinking, and passion.
WHY I LIKE THIS BOOK: I like this book because these fast-paced poems inject readers into the game through word choice, poem line set up, and passion for the game while introducing the reader to each player's style of play, skill set, and court personality.
TITLE:Hoop Kings
POEMS by: Charles R. Smith Jr.
PUBLISHER: Candlewick Press, 2004
TOPIC(S): poetry, basketball, word choice and analogies
CREATIVE COMPONENTS: imagination, flexible thinking, passion
1) Things that interest you so much that you want to learn more and more about them through reading, doing, and experimenting are called passions. What are some of your interests/passions? Create an independent study on one of your passions to learn more about it with the goal of producing an end product. Use your end product to teach others about your passion.
2) Who is one of your favorite sports players? It can be a famous athlete or someone you know. Jot down a list of adjectives that describe how this person plays her/his sport. Read your list and visualize that player, what does s/he remind you of? Next incorporate that into a metaphor to write a poem about your player.
To learn more about poet Charles R. Smith Jr., visit:
Listen to Charles R. Smith Jr., read some of his poems from Hoop Kingsin this Follow the Poems Series:
For additional classroom exercises, visit:


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Road to the Quilts
1. Habitat for Humanity Resale Warehouse
North Montgomery and Highway 82
Designer: Lauren Blalock
Sponsor: Habitat for Humanity
1A. Boardtown Gardens*
404 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr.
Artists: Mary Frances Bennett, Carly Melton, Taylor White
Sponsor: Boardtown Gardens
1B. U. S. Lawn and Gardens*
2136 Highway 182E.
Artists: Caylee Hubbard, Molly Rushing, Darby Taylor
Sponsor: Will and Stephanie Arnett
1.C. Mayhew Tomato Farm*
452 Artesia West Point Rd.
Artists: Izzy Cottrell, Brett Landers, Cat Remington
Sponsor: Mayhew Tomato Farm
1D. Adaton United Methodist Church
303 Reed Rd.
Artists: Karen Cook, Nancy Critz
Sponsor: Adaton United Methodist Church
1E. Christian World Missions
1437 Fire Station Road
Artists (outside building) Amy Farrar, Morgan Linnett, Hushawn Rambo*
(inside building, please feel free to tour) Lori Smith and Lee Ann Williamson
Sponsor: Christian World Missions
2. Dot Livingston's Quilter's Haven
237 Critz Street
Title: "Road to Paradise", "Double Squares",
Nancy's Fancy
Artist: Layne Livingston
2A. Cater Residence*
104 Cedar Lane
Artists: Katie Erickson, Morgan Eversole, Bailey Hamil
Sponsor: Christy Cater
2B. Starkville Public Library
326 University Drive
Artists: Bryn Merrell, Abby and Hannah Riffel
Title: Bear Paw
Sponsor: Golden Triangle Quilters
3. Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum
206 Fellowship Street
Artists: Katy Coleman, Erin Frazier, Brooke Rankins, Abby Wood
Sponsor: Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum
4. Community Market
Corner of Jackson and Lafayette Street
Artists: Ali Meeler, Katie Hughes,
Austin Roberts
Sponsor: Golden Triangle Quilters
4A. Starkville Counseling in the Little Building Studio*
205 South Lafayette Street
Artists: Olivia Ketchum, Katherine Jenkins, Kate Webb, Gerald Wicks
Sponsor: Don and Leslie Fye
4B. MSU/Oktibbeha County Extension Service*
106 Felix Long Dr.
Artists: Amy Farrar, Morgan Linnett, Hushawn Rambo
Sponsor: MSU/Oktibbeha County Extension Service
5. Starkville SportsPlex
405 Lynn Lane
Front of SportsPlex:
Artists: Caitlyn Fleming, Tehna Mack, Sarah Tewolde
Sponsor: Mississippi Quilt Association
Activities Building:
Artists: Katie Erickson, Morgan Eversole, Bailey Hamil
Sponsor: Golden Triangle Quilters
6. Burnett Art Studio & Custom Cowbells
58 Sunny Top Cove
Title: Iris Star
Artist (Back of studio) Bill and Vicki Burnett
Artists (Side of studio): Izzy Cottrell, Brett Landers, Cat Remington *
Sponsor: Burnett Art
7. Mississippi Horse Park
869 East Poorhouse Road
Artists: Jessie Cossitt, Sarah Ferguson;
Caroline Brantley
MSU Public Affairs
8. Oktoc Water Association
Corner of Poor House Road and Oktoc Road
Artist: Debbie Barnett
Sponsor: Oktoc Water Association
9. Woodside Estates
Oktoc Road
Artists: Sanessa Wright, Jessica Brooks,
Kelli Clayton
Sponsors: John and Debbie Barnett
10. Oktibbeha County District 5 Volunteer Fire Department
Oktoc and Robinson Roads
Artist: Pam Maddox
Designer: Vicki Burnett
Title: "Fire Brigade"
Sponsors: Robert, Pam, and Cameron Maddox
11. Oktoc Community Club
Corner of Oktoc and Robinson Roads
Title Oktoc Heritage Barn Quilt: Compilation of "Barn", "Corn and Beans", and "Spools
Artists: Residents of Oktoc Community
Sponsors: Oktoc Garden Club; Oktoc Community Club
11A. Cobb Property on Robinson Rd.*
5398 Robinson Rd.
Artists: Cassandra Alley, Cameron Hinkle, Ques Nevels
Sponsor: Dr. Tommy and Laura Lee Cobb
12. The Noxubee Refuge Quilts
A. South end of Oktoc Rd.
Title: "Eagle"
B. Visitor's Center
13723 Bluff Lake Road
"Fish", "Flower", "Tracks"
C. Cypress Cove Boardwalk
Title: "Crossed Canoes"
13. Ulmer Barn
2161 Cross Creek Rd.
Title: Star Flower
Artist: Vanessa Wilson
Sponsors: Allen and Marianne Ulmer
14.Masseyville Pottery
459 Massey Drive
Title: Honoring Grandparents
Artist: Amy Massey
Sponsor: Steve and Amy Massey
Quilt locations indicated with an asterisk (*) were painted by Mississippi State University students enrolled in Professor Neil Callander's Design II classes from 2013 to present. The Oktibbeha County Barn Quilt Trail is greatly indebted to their tremendous talent and willingness to participate


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We pride ourselves on customer service.
We work very hard to train our employees to give us the advantage over our competition. We strive to empower our warehouses and our sales people to be knowledgeable in the business and we have a fleet of box trucks covering West Virginia, and parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, and Maryland.
Valley Supply was founded in 1905 as the Baldwin Chandlee Supply Company. In 1915 the name was shortened to Baldwin Supply and in 1924 the name was changed to Valley Supply Company.
Valley Supply was originally a mine and supply company with several auxiliary businesses, such as a Buick dealership, a blacksmith shop, and a leather shop. It also sold guns, stoves, and bicycle parts.
Today Valley Supply is the largest wholesaler in West Virginia. It carries a full line of plumbing, heating and cooling, pipe, valves and fittings, and hardware. Our central distribution center is located in Clarksburg. Three other stores are operated in Elkins, Parkersburg, and St. Albans.
In 2009, Valley Supply Company expanded its product line and DreamScapes Bath and Home Gallery joined the Valley Supply family. DreamScapes represents a complete transformation from a facility, where many special merchandise items were traditionally ordered from a catalog, to a comfortable, well-lit showroom. The showrooms at our Elkins and Parkersburg locations allow customers to enjoy a first-hand view of the merchandise.


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The black list of airlines banned in the European Union
The blacklist of airlines' names has been updated to ensure that European passengers a higher level of security.
The black list of airlines barred by the European Union was created after a number of incidents occurred in the skies of Europe and in the airports of major European countries.
The result of the addition to the European black list is the ban on transit due to a security issue. Today, some 214 airlines worldwide remain completely excluded from European airspace.
Periodically, the list is updated with the inclusion of new air transportation companies. Others, such as Air Madagascar, which leads straight to the island of lemurs, are gradually excluded from the blacklist.
The black list of airlines is born for the safety of passengers, seen as the main priority in the European policy. At the same time trying to maintain high quality standards, at least as regards the services at airports and on board of the aircraft. In this regard, the European Union launched the so-called Aviation Strategy that aims, as a primary objective the improvement of the offering and raising the levels of security, to ensure that air disasters are completely avoided.
Recently, an update of the black list has been made, giving the green light to fly in the skies of Europe to some major global carriers.
Besides the already mentioned Air Madagascar, received the permit to fly even the Lion Air, Citilink and Batik Air, all three airlines of Indonesian origin. Soon it will tried to take other steps forward, to the exclusion from the blacklist companies from Zambia.
Also airlines from the Middle East, such as Iran Air, for example, will shortly return to fly in the skies of Europe.
It is expected that after the last update of the blacklist of airlines, in it will remain about 214 companies from more than 19 countries around the world. Given the European Union's policies it is not excluded the possibility that within a year since the last update are also deleted the Iraqi Airways and Blue Wing Airlines. To read the complete list of blocked airlines, just connect to the official website of the EU's transport and scroll through the list of air carriers subject to an operating ban in the EU.
Read the updated full list of banned airlines on the EU website.
Have you flied with EU banned companies? Your experience?


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Security Watch Story Feed 7-16-2007
No breakthrough in efforts to unlock the iPhone
Hackers now are working to create an assembler utility for the iPhone's processor after earlier efforts hit a dead end. [InfoWorld] And Dvorak's got a week left until his prognositcated unlocked-iPhone deadline expires.
IT Security: The Data Theft Time Bomb
While viruses and worms remain the most pesky security problems, data theft concerns simmer beneath the surface, according to InformationWeek's 10th annual Global Information Security survey. [InformationWeek]
Sony BMG sues DRM developer
Record label Sony BMG is suing the maker of digital rights management (DRM) software which was accused of harming computers in 2005. [The Register]
Cell phone security has at least one flaw: People
People have always been the weakest link when it comes to protecting computers. The same applies to mobile phones. [CNet News.com]
Oracle plans 46 security updates for database, software
Oracle Corp. plans to release 46 security updates Tuesday to fix flaws attackers could exploit across its product line to tamper with database servers and host operating systems. [SearchSecurity.com]


text: I was very fortunate to have had the opportunity to supervise and work with Aimee for approximately five years. During this time, she handled promotions management and various areas of marketing for the Ektelon brand while continually taking on more responsibility as the company evolved through many changes. She was a very diligent and hard working individual who took great pride in the brand and her position and consistently produced at a very high level. One of Aimee's key strengths was her attention to detail while tackling projects and managing her department always with a very close eye on the budget. However, her involvement in taking on new roles including; communications, website updating and all social media functions for the brand several years after joining the company is a true testament to her ability to roll up her sleeves and become an even more valued member of the team. Aimee not only assumed these new functions, she excelled at it. I would without hesitation, recommend Aimee for any new position she desires in the future.


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When you sip a Manhattan, you are sipping on a drink invented in the 1870s. An Old Fashioned is a taste of the 1880s.
Now, one of Melbourne's favourite cocktail bars, The Everleigh, has taken the idea of pouring this history into your glass as literally as it can with its new Vintage Spirits menu. While there isn't anything quite as old as the original Manhattan, owner Michael Madrusan likens the new list to "time travel".
"I really like the idea of trying something that was made many, many moons ago and becoming familiar with the way it tasted back then, the way it's aged, and connecting with that time," he says. "The idea of having a Gordon's Martini using Gordon's 47 per cent gin bottled in the '50s."
After experimenting with cocktails using older spirits, the Everleigh has assembled 18 spirits spanning decades and flavours. There's Bacardi from the '70s, Jim Beam Bonded Bourbon from 1943, and you can even try three decades of Plymouth Gin – one from 1970s, one from the '80s and its current bottling.
To encourage drinkers to try these rare spirits, the markup is minimal and the bar offers half pours. That means you can get an Old Overholt Rye from the 1980s for $12. On the other end of the spectrum is the same Rye from 1936, which is $110 for a full pour (still less than it costs to try sought-after contemporary bourbons, such as a recent bottling of Pappy Van Winkle for $185 a pour).
"At the end of the day it's pointless having them in that shelf where people are looking at them and not buying them," Madrusan says.
The process of sourcing and buying rare spirits isn't easy. After cost, shipping and taxes, the liquor also needs to taste good, which, given age and history, isn't guaranteed. The bar will warn customers if it suspects a bottle isn't in the best shape. "It's one thing to have these available to customers, but it's another thing to make sure they are getting a quality product," Madrusan says.
But for many customers, he adds, curiosity and experience often outweighs taste as the primary allure. A 1940s bottle of Black & White Scotch, for example, arrived with unusual flavours due to oxidation. The same Scotch from the 1930s leaked in transit, but still tastes fantastic.
For Madrusan, the journey is part of the pleasure.
"I think it's the start of a bit of an obsession," he says. "You never know what you're going to find in the bottle."


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Soap Nuts – the Low-Cost, Non-Toxic Cleaner
I recently came across a really cool new cleaning product. Except that it isn't new, and it's not exactly a product, but there are products made from it and you can buy it.
This is starting to sound like a riddle, so I'll get to the point: SOAP NUTS!!
What is a soap nut?
Soap Nuts, which are actually berries, grow on trees and have actual soap in them!
The berries contain saponin, which functions as a surfactant a.k.a. soap. They work to release dirt from fabric and other surfaces, then suspend the dirt in the water to be rinsed away. Some species of soap nut have also been found to be anti-bacterial and anti-fungal.
Soap nuts have been in use for literal ages, in subtropic Asia, in countries such as India, China, Taiwan, and Nepal. There is also a western soapberry tree that was used historically for the same purposes by Native Americans.
What can I do with a soap nut?
Soap nuts can be used to make an array of cleaning products.
- Produce rinse
- Laundry detergent
- Dish detergent for use in a dishwasher or handwashing
- Shampoo
- Face and body wash
- Shaving Cream
- All-purpose cleaner
- Glass cleaner
- Insect repellent
- Jewelry cleaner
- Automobile washing
How to use Soap Nuts
There is more than one method for using soap nuts, and the exact measurements may vary based on the exact species you are using. So I advise testing out a few methods to see what gets the best results with the nuts that you have available. That's what I'll be doing! But for this blog, I will cover some of the ideas and recipes I have found during my research.
Use the whole nut
Put 4-5 nuts in a mesh or muslin bag, tie it off and soak it in warm water for about 5 minutes–just enough time to get your laundry sorted and put in the machine–then toss it in with your laundry. Soaking the soap nuts helps activate the saponin for best results. Reuse the same bag for approximately 10 loads of laundry, or until the soap nuts seem mushy. To test if the nuts are still good, give it a squeeze after letting it soak, you should see some suds come out.
Note that you may need to adjust the number of nuts added to your laundry based on variable such as load size and water hardness.
Update: I have been using whole Soap Nuts for my laundry for a while now and wanted to add some notes and some photos of the results.
Firstly, I discovered that the machines in my apartment building do not get any hot water which is kind of a bummer. I mostly use cold water anyway because the fabrics last longer and it saves energy, but sometimes I'd like to sanitize a little deeper! Well, that is a problem for another day.
To counteract the cold water issue I started soaking the Soap Nuts in hot water–not boiling, just out of the tap–for about 10 minutes (as described above). I realized after doing this a few times that it is actually a helpful gauge as to the lifespan of your Soap Nuts. Different nuts can last longer than others, or so I've read, so it is good to see how long yours will work to produce suds.
Here is what very fresh, good quality Soap Nuts do to a cup of hot tap water.
As they go through the wash a few times, the water will become less cloudy and more clear. This helps you know when to swap out for fresh nuts.
So, after using the soap nuts as laundry detergent for a while, here are my findings:
- The clothes are definitely clean and soft – no need for fabric softener
- I have had less static-cling than I used to get from clean laundry
- Soap Nuts are the ultimate scent-free laundry detergent
- The clothes come out smelling clean, but not "fresh" — what I mean is that they don't smell like laundry detergent … they just smell like clothes
- The socks do not smell like feet, they just smell like cotton
- Underarm and crotch areas, which both get a lot of sweat, also smell clean
- If you want a "fresh" or "laundry" smell, you may want to add some essential oils, personally, I am very happy with scent free.
- Beware of accidentally throwing your bag of Soap Nuts into the dryer with your clothes
- I have done this a couple times and the good news is that you can revive them by soaking them in water, but I think it may shorten the lifespan a little.
OK – that is all I have for an update right now, but stay tuned as I continue my testing and expand my Soap Nut knowledge!
Back to our regularly scheduled program.
Another use of the whole nut is to take 10-12 nuts and let them soak in a bucket of hot water for about 30 minutes. Then use this water to wash your car, your floors, or anything else that you might need a bucket of water to clean. Since the wash is all natural and biodegradable the water can be reused to water your trees or plants. It may even keep pests out of the area watered. If anyone does try watering plants with the leftover water, I'd love to hear how it goes! (I don't have any plants or yeard to test this out myself).
It should be noted that when the whole nut starts to run dry, you can still boil it, powder it or make a paste out of it to get all of that saponin out of the shell!
Make a concentrated liquid cleaner at home
I have found a number of recipes for a liquid concentrate, ranging from 2 nuts per cup of water to 15 nuts per cup. I went with a middle ground of about 10 nuts per cup of water.
Boil the soap nuts in the water, occasionally smashing them down with a bamboo spoon or something similar, for about 30 minutes. You can add essential oils if you want a scented product. Strain the liquid into a jar, and store in the fridge. Will last about 2 weeks. Another idea is that you can freeze it into cubes and just throw a cube into the laundry machine, dishwasher, or bucket of water.
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Making soap with soap nuts! These little berries (they aren't actually a nut, so no nut allergy concerns here!) are a low cost multi tool around the home. Make your own concoctions or purchase premade, either way you're getting a non-toxic, non-abrasive cleanser that you can use for just about anything! #nontoxic #chemicalfree #superfruit
The concentrated product can be used for multiple purposes
- Mix 1 TBSP into a bucket of water for mopping floors
- Mix 1 TBSP into dishwater for dishes
- Add concentrate directly to the dishwasher, or laundry machine (this low suds product is perfect for machine washing)
- Mix 1 TBSP concentrate with 1 TBSP white vinegar into a spray bottle and fill with water for glass and multi-purpose cleaners
- Apply a dab to your cleansing cloth for face or body cleansing. The antibacterial properties of the berry make this an excellent wash for acne prone skin, but it is also not drying and is very gentle for sensitive skin.
- Mix .5-1 oz into 12 oz water in a jar and pour over your scalp for shampoo (follow up with an apple cider vinegar rinse as your conditioner!)
- Mix 1 TBSP into a gallon bucket of water for another way to get floor and car wash
- For a jewelry cleaner, use either the straight concentrate or about a 50/50 mix with water, let jewelry soak in it for a bit and then scrub it with a toothbrush.
This list could go on and on, get creative and post your ideas in the comments below!
Make and use as a paste
To make a paste you would take the leftover skins that you boiled to make your concentrate (you would want to remove the hard seeds at this point if you did not buy seedless) and put them in your food processor to create a mash. Then add coconut oil, or olive oil, or grapeseed oil (or whatever type of oil you prefer to use on your skin) and blend it down into a more liquid state. Once you apply to wet skin it will suds up and you can shave away!
The paste of the skins can also be used as a concentrated cleaner and degreaser for tough messes. If you need something more abrasive check out this scrubbing block.
Make a powder
You can just buy soap nut powder (and many of the other cleaners listed above), but if you are a DIY sort of person, take the dry nuts and just throw them in your blender, coffee grinder or food processor. I think you would want to use just the skins as the seeds don't contain any saponin and are rather hard, so they would wear down your blades with no added benefit.
The powder can then be used in basically the same ways as the liquid by putting a scoop into your laundry or into your dishwasher or dishwater.
Reuse them
Now that I have been doing my laundry with the whole nut, in a bag. I have learned one more trick. After you have used the same nuts for laundry for a while (say 10 loads of laundry) they may not be great for more laundry, but you can still boil them or powder them to get every little bit of saponin out of them. They are the fruit that keeps on giving!!
What else?
The possibilities seem rather endless at this point. I have read that insects are naturally repelled by the plant, which means that no pesticides are needed to grow them. It also means that it has the potential for use as mosquito repellent! Although everything I have read indicates the results are not in as to how effective it might be or the best way to apply it.
It is all natural and very mild, so you can use it for your children's laundry, or for someone with a skin condition such as eczema. You can also use it to shampoo your pet, and supposedly it will help discourage fleas and ticks from them.
How much?
It will depend on where you buy your products or the soap nuts. But you can get as low as $.12 per load of laundry!
The key is to buy in bulk (and why wouldn't you when there are so many applications!) and reuse them until they are fully out of juice.
For more chemical-free and non-toxic cleaners click here.
I am a writer, editor and avid reader. I also happen to be trying to save the world, one little step at a time. I look forward to providing quick and easy steps you can take to make your life a little greener!!


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Expanded powers of military in domestic affairs:
Don't let this part fool you:
"The plan, which would replace a military trial system ruled illegal by the Supreme Court in June..."
This is DIFFERENT from what was thrown out in June (read it again). Obviously Bush is following the old adage "if at first you don't succeed, try, try again".
Here's some more detail:


text: We love spending time in the kitchen creating delicious food for family and friends, using fresh, seasonal produce. And whether we're treating them to lunch or afternoon tea, it always tastes better when we use our favourite ingredient – Rachel's. Take a look at our recipes by searching for seasons, products or moments in the bar above. It's full of inspiring dishes for everyday dining and special meals alike.