What Is An Organized Industrial Zone

Over 250 OIZs have positively impacted the future of modern Turkey.

Originally developed in the early 1960s as a means of stimulating economic and industrial development in Turkey, Organized Industrial Zones, or OIZs, have flourished as powerful promoters of public-private partnership in underdeveloped and distressed regions. Empowered by generous tax incentives, OIZs have stimulated the economy of modern Turkey and connected a willing workforce with stable careers.

Tax Incentives

In order to spur the economic development of underdeveloped areas of Turkey, Organized Industrial Zones benefit from generous tax incentives from the federal government. New commercial and industrial buildings in OIZs are exempt from real estate taxes for five years following their construction. In addition, OIZs benefit from exemptions from the Value Added Tax on certain goods and from corporate and wastewater taxes if certain conditions are met.

Infrastructure

Through public-private partnerships, entities within OIZs collaborate to develop all of the necessary infrastructure to stimulate industrial activities within the zone. OIZs are able to attract industrial and commercial business development by providing existing roads, wastewater treatment plants, transportation infrastructure, functioning electric grid and communications infrastructure. In combination with the possibility of obtaining free land, the industry-focused infrastructure of the OIZs creates a fertile and attractive environment for new industry.

Benefits of Collaboration

In addition to the incentives provided directly by the OIZ, new businesses attracted to the OIZ benefit from the collaboration possibilities presented by their presence within these zones. Businesses within the OIZ can share the cost of environmental impact assessments, and any necessary mitigation or abatement, lowering the costs and timeframe for starting operations. Furthermore, all businesses in the OIZ benefit from the efforts of the OIZ management group to cultivate a trained workforce and from business development services provided by the OIZ entity.

Oversight

As entities, OIZs possess a limited amount of autonomy. Although overseen directly by Turkey's Ministry of Industry and Trade, OIZs establish a governance structure with significant representation by local stakeholders, including local chambers of commerce, local and regional government and business owners and investors. This shared governance model ensures that decisions are made that will further stimulate economic activity in the region. This regulatory body governing the OIZ is established as a mandated non-profit entity, reinvesting all profits in activities which will benefit the region's economic growth, such as research, vocational training and business development.

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Start A Beverage Company

Start a Beverage Company

Bottled and canned beverages include soft drinks, sports drinks, energy drinks, and water. The number of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages available in commercial cooler sections has grown tremendously over the years. Industry publications such as Beverage World and Beverage Digest report how beverage manufacturers and distributors have maintained a competitive edge in markets where the need for on-the-go hydration has remained constant. The high entry costs into the beverage business, however, makes sound business planning and market research key for new market entrants.

Instructions

Start a Beverage Company

1. Conduct market research before entering this competitive business, as it requires substantial start-up costs. Industry news and beverage reviews for non-alcoholic drinks can be obtained free from BevNET.com. Industry market research reports are available at MarketResearch.com. This includes in-depth market research information on beverage market size and market segmentation; product and market trends, risks, and opportunities; and profiles of key participants.

2. Join bottled and canned beverage industry organizations such as the American Beverage Association (ABA). The ABA membership provides access to beverage industry information and definitions of industry terms, as well as a valuable supplier directory.

3. Research product development suppliers. Learn about the various options in flavors, sweeteners, carbonators and coloring. Machinery for supply chain management, decals and labels, closures, and testing will also have to be considered. Options for product bottles/cans, cases/trays, and displays/stands are numerous. A great place to start this research is through the ABA supplier directory.

4. Obtain required licenses and permits. A beverage company of any sort, whether alcoholic or non-alcoholic, will be highly regulated and require government licenses and permits. Health permits are also a big part of operating a beverage company. Contact the local government business office or a local attorney to find out more about the licenses and permits required.

5. Construct or purchase a bottling plant. This will be expensive, and many beverage companies opt to start by outsourcing production to existing bottling companies with compatible systems, when the outsourcing company is not a direct competitor in the market.

6. Market the business through television, radio and print media. Set up an online website for the new beverage. Develop a sales team to market the beverage to general markets such as grocery and general stores, as well as specialty markets such as cafes and restaurants.

Tags: market research, licenses permits, Start Beverage, Start Beverage Company, Beverage Company, beverage company

Restaurants In Linden Hills Minneapolis

Restaurants in Linden Hills, Minneapolis.

Located in Hennepin County, Minnesota, Linden Hills is a neighborhood situated in southwest Minneapolis. Locations like Lake Calhoun, Lake Harriet and Theodore Wirth Park make Linden Hills a favored destination among outdoor enthusiasts. Activities such as hiking, biking, golfing and canoeing are big around the area and give residents and visitors a big appetite. If you are planning a visit and feel like having a bite to eat, Linden Hills offers a variety of restaurants.

Café Twenty Eight

Located several blocks from the Linden Hills Recreational Center, Café Twenty Eight has been serving the community since 2001 and has become a neighborhood favorite ever since. With a casual yet chic motif, Café Twenty Eight offers a wide array of dishes made with organic and locally grown ingredients. Open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner and brunch on Sundays, Café twenty Eight offers organic chicken tacos in salsa verde, grilled rack of lamb, fresh fish special, house made gnocchi and fisher's farm pork in adobo. A wide array of beers and wines are also available.

Café Twenty Eight

2724 West 43rd Street

Minneapolis, MN 55410-1663

612-926-2800‎

cafetwentyeight.com

Rice Paper Restaurant

Rice Paper Restaurant is a quaint and small restaurant with flavorful food and a welcoming atmosphere. Its menu offers customers an array of Asian-fusion dishes with an emphasis on delivering a culinary experience. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner, Rice Paper Restaurant offers dishes such as the indochine salad, curry plate, tamarind rice trio, spring rolls, Chinese pancake wraps and the new moon tofu. A variety wines and beers are also served.

Rice Paper Restaurant

2726 West 43rd Street

Minneapolis, MN 55410-1656

612-926-8650‎

ricepaperrestaurant.com

Trattoria Tosca

Open Monday through Sunday for dinner only, Trattoria Tosca offers patrons an upscale and cozy atmosphere with Italian dishes made with fresh local ingredients. Named "Best New Restaurant of 2009" by City Pages, Trattotia Tosca has quickly become a popular culinary destination among locals for its attentive and customer oriented service plus its authentic Italian dishes. Entrée options include bucatini, green orchetti, shellfish risotto, duck, pork tenderloin and cba New York strip. Trattoria also offers customers an extensive list of wines and beers.

Trattoria Tosca

3421 West 44th Street

Minneapolis, MN 55410-1439

612-924-1900‎

trattoriatosca.com

Tags: Linden Hills, Paper Restaurant, Rice Paper, Rice Paper Restaurant, Street Minneapolis

Difference Between Whole Grain Spelt Flour & White Spelt Flour

Bread made from spelt

Spelt is an ancient form of wheat. It is similar in appearance to the wheat we are more accustomed to seeing today, but it is larger in size and darker in color. Similar to other forms of wheat, it is processed into both white and whole grain flours. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Dietary Characteristics

Spelt cultivation

The nonprofit consumer advocate organization Whole Grains Council reports that spelt differs from other forms of wheat in that it contains more protein and is easier to digest. Although all forms of wheat contain gluten, some say people with gluten allergies seem to tolerate spelt better than ordinary wheat. Nutritionists such as D. Gayle Alleman and Sue N. Butkus of the University of Washington warn, however, that all gluten should be avoided by gluten allergy sufferers.

Milling Spelt

Spelt is milled in the same way as ordinary wheat. The husk is removed first, leaving a whole grain that includes an outer coating of bran, a nutrition-packed "germ," and the endosperm or kernel. In whole wheat, most of this remains intact. To produce white flour, the grain is milled, removing the bran and germ and, with them, much of the nutrition, according to Elmer M. Cranton, M.D., in an article titled "Modern Bread, the Broken Staff of Life."

Baking Challenges

Baking with spelt can be trickier than with ordinary flour. Among the issues is that spelt can create a more crumbly dough. For recipes where this is a potential problem, using more refined white spelt flour is a good choice.

Fiber

Fiber is essential to a healthy diet. Whole grain spelt flour contains significantly more fiber than does white spelt flour.

Sweets

Although whole wheat spelt is more nutritious than is white spelt, whole wheat is less suitable for baking traditional cookies and cakes. More savory baked goods, such as breads, pretzels and some muffins, can succeed with either form.

Tags: forms wheat, spelt flour, whole wheat, ordinary wheat, other forms, other forms wheat

Health Requirements For Starting A Food Business In New Jersey

Strict laws apply when operating a food establishment.

Health requirements for opening a food business in New Jersey are based on those required by the United States Department of Agriculture. From storage to handling, preparation and inspection, New Jersey has a series of regulations for businesses that sell food. These are regulated by the State Department of Health and must be adhered to in order to run a restaurant, food cart or catering business.

Acquiring a License

New Jersey requires that all retail establishments that prepare and sell food be licensed by the Bureau of License & Inspections. There is one in the city of Camden, located at 520 Market Street, City Hall Room 220, Camden, NJ 08101. As of September 2010, fees range from $172.50 for takeout eateries, taverns and delicatessens, to up to $219.42 for higher-end restaurants and catering halls. To file your application, you'll also need: a health certificate, a copy of the deed or lease, proof of zoning approval (if your business is a brick and mortar establishment), sales tax certificate, social security card, driver's license and two passport-size photos.

Safety Regulations

To start a food business in New Jersey, you must comply with the state's Sanitation in Retail Food Establishments and Food and Beverage Vending Machines law, called Chapter 24. This law covers all food safety regulations in the state of New Jersey, including the responsibilities of management and staff, food stuffs and the equipment used to prepare and serve food.

Inspections

All food establishments must comply with all inspections requested by the State Department of Health. By law, the department has full access to randomly inspect any restaurant, vendor or catering establishment that handles or sells food. During an inspection, any or all packages, containers and preparation stations can be examined and samples taken for further analysis. Any violation of the Department of Agriculture regulations may result in the confiscation of samples for analysis.

Tags: comply with, Department Agriculture, Department Health, food business, food business Jersey, must comply, must comply with

Season A Potato On A Daniel Fast

Finding alternate ways to season your potatoes

The Daniel Fast is used to help people learn the discipline of fasting and prayer. The guidelines come from the Bible story recording how Daniel ate only vegetables and fruit and drank only water for three weeks. Since margarine, butter, sour cream and any dairy-based products are forbidden, there is a need for seasoning substitutes for potatoes. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Use a butter substitute like Pam, which is acceptable on the Daniel Fast. Buy the specific "butter" can of Pam. If you want to eat a baked potato, you can spray the inside of the potato as if you were adding actual butter. You can also use Pam when recipes call for butter or margarine.

2. Add salt and pepper; they are acceptable on the Daniel Fast. You can add them during meal preparation as well as after. Just use as sparingly as possible. Try other types of pepper, such as cayenne or paprika.

3. Add herbs like rosemary and thyme to season your potatoes. You can use any herb or use mixtures such as curry powder.

4. Use garlic cloves to add flavor. Dice garlic cloves and sprinkle them on the tops of potatoes before baking.

5. Sprinkle extra virgin olive oil on cut-up potatoes and bake for a healthier version of french fries.

Tags: Daniel Fast, acceptable Daniel, acceptable Daniel Fast, garlic cloves, season your

Make Glitter Lip Gloss

Making your own glitter lip gloss puts a frugal spin on a glamorous product. Who doesn't want to look gorgeous and still keep some money in their pocket? With homemade glitter gloss you know that the ingredients are toxin free and cruelty free because you made it yourself. When you create your own glitter lip gloss, you are making a statement that you are someone who wants to look good and still cares about the environment. To start, you can use stuff you may have lying around the house or you can opt for a more natural gloss made with beeswax. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Glitter Girl Gloss

1. Mix the petroleum jelly and the drink mix in a small bowl until blended.

2. Sprinkle in the glitter, just a little at a time until you are happy with the glittery look of your lip gloss.

3. If desired, add a drop or two of the food coloring until you get the color you want.

4. Test a some on your lips to make sure you are satisfied with the look and taste of the gloss.

5. Using a small spoon, transfer the gloss to the container. Pack it down and seal.

Sweet as Honey Shimmer Gloss

6. Warm the beeswax, honey and shea butter in the microwave. Only run the microwave for 5 to 10 seconds at a time and stir often. Checking vigilantly to be sure that you are not overheating the ingredients.

7. Mix the almond oil in with the honey, beeswax and shea butter. Stir until all ingredients are combined.

8. Add 3 drops of oil from the vitamin E capsule. Vitamin E will help to preserve the gloss and is beneficial to your lips.

9. Sprinkle a little glitter into the mix until you are happy with the shimmer of the gloss.

10. Add food coloring, a drop at a time if you desire.

11. Once the mixture has cooled a little, test it on your finger to be sure you are content with the shimmer and color of your gloss.

12. Pour the mixture into your container and set it aside to firm.

Tags: glitter gloss, food coloring, happy with, shea butter, until happy, until happy with

Be Relaxed With A New Boss

Meeting a new boss can be a scary experience.

When there is a new boss at your place of work, or you begin a job with a new company, it can be very stressful. A boss that is familiar with you understands your schedule, responsibilities, strengths and weaknesses. Whereas new bosses have to learn about your work capabilities, as well as who you are as a person. Behaving anxiously or nervously in front of a new boss may send a message that you're a less-than-ideal employee. So being relaxed when interacting with your new boss is essential to making the best possible impression.

Instructions

1. Get up early on the day you'll first interact with your new boss. This gives you extra time to prepare, so you won't start the day in a rush.

2. Eat a healthy, filling breakfast. When your body is given the fuel it needs, you feel less stressed.

3. Arrive at work a few minutes early, so you can begin working before the new boss arrives. This shows responsibility and eagerness for your job.

4. Watch your new boss carefully if he or she gives an introductory speech. New bosses often tell employees what kind of person they are, what their likes and dislikes are, and what their hopes are for the future. This helps you get to know your boss better.

5. Wait until your new boss is not crowded by other people and seems to have a moment of free time. This way, the attention will be completely on you, and he or she will not feel interrupted.

6. Take a deep breath, exhale slowly, and repeat this up to five times. This helps calm any nerves and can slow a racing heartbeat.

7. Greet your new boss with a smile and a firm, polite handshake. Introduce yourself by name, and tell your boss what your job title or responsibilities are.

8. Tell your boss you are excited to work for him or her and are happy to help in the transition. This will leave a good impression.

Tags: your boss, This helps, what their, with your, with your boss

Make Tofu

Tofu is versatile ingredient which takes on the flavors of whatever it's cooked with. It represents an easy, inexpensive way to add protein to your diet. You can buy tofu at nearly any grocery store, but you also can make it at home by following these steps. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Prepare the Soybeans

1. Clean 2 1/3 cups whole soybeans under running water. Remove debris or damaged soybeans.

2. Soak the soybeans overnight in a bowl or other container in approximately 8 cups of water.

3. Drain and rinse the soybeans in a colander.

Make the Tofu

4. Grind the soybeans with 12 1/2 cups water in a blender until it makes a slurry. This can be done in batches if the blender doesn't hold it all.

5. Pour the slurry into a pot on the stove.

6. Bring the pot to a boil, stirring constantly.

7. Once the slurry is boiling, turn it down to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep stirring.

8. Filter the slurry through a cheesecloth or linen towel, saving the liquid in a bowl. Discard the ground up soybeans.

Cook the Tofu

9. Return the slurry to the pot and put it on low heat.

10. Combine 2 tbsp. calcium sulfate with 1/2 cup water to make a coagulant solution.

11. Add the coagulant to the slurry and stir.

12. Put a lid on the pot and let it sit for 10 minutes.

13. Check to see if the tofu has coagulated. There should be chunks of tofu curd. If not, you can add more coagulant.

14. Strain the tofu, using a colander lined with cheesecloth or towel. Use the cheesecloth or towel to squeeze out excess water.

Press the Tofu

15. Put the strained tofu in a tofu mold lined with cheesecloth.

16. Fold the cheesecloth over the tofu and place the lid on it.

17.Put a weight such as a can of food on the lid.

18. Let the tofu sit in the mold for 20 or 30 minutes.

19. Remove the tofu from the mold. It's now ready to use.

Tags: cheesecloth towel, cups water, lined with, lined with cheesecloth, Make Tofu, tofu mold, with cheesecloth

Kitchen Gifts For Men

Fill a man's empty kitchen with some gifts.

If you think a man's place is in the kitchen, consider these men's kitchen gifts. Whether it is a birthday, anniversary or special occasion, these gifts are a good fit. Give him gifts he will use to cook his own meals and host special events, such as a football party. If you know a bachelor who cooks occasionally, give him something to make the job easier.

Egg and Muffin Toaster

An egg and muffin toaster is a handy gadget that cooks eggs and toast and makes muffins. This gift will become a favorite in a busy man's kitchen. The toaster is not excessively manly, but it does have the advantage of being a multitasker. This is an appropriate gift for the guy who is not afraid of cooking but does not want to spend all morning preparing breakfast. The product is also contemporary and comes in black, a color accepted by men.

Propane Fryer

A deep fryer is an excellent man's gift, but a portable Coleman propane fryer is a man's best friend. He will take it camping, to the game or use it in his kitchen. This appliance makes his favorite meals; such as fried chicken wings, beer-battered shrimp and french fries. It comes in red, another guy color, and it may replace an existing fryer.

Fillet Knife

An electric fillet knife is another man's gift idea. This kitchen gift guts and cleans all those fish he catches, and it is rechargeable. This means the fillet knife is portable so he can take it on those long fishing trips to his favorite stream.

Portable Grill

A portable electric grill for the kitchen counter is another man gift idea. This appliance has many versions, so find one that makes his favorite food. Consider slider-makers, panini makers and basic fryer grills that cook everything from salmon burgers to steaks. Most of the manliest portable grills come in stainless steel, black or white. These are also good bachelor items.

Tags: another gift, another gift idea, fillet knife, gift idea, gift idea This, idea This, makes favorite

Take Malarone Tablets

Take Malarone Tablets

Medications work best when they are taken correctly. This is particularly important when taking preventative measures against something like malaria. Malaria is caused by a parasitic infection in the bloodstream, and is transferred to human hosts via mosquito bites. If you take Malarone properly, you can safely tour malaria infested zones, examine ruins of ancient cultures and explore the rain forest without fear of contracting the dreaded disease.

Instructions

1. Talk to your physician about anti-malaria medication and request a prescription for Malarone. If you are currently taking any other medications, including vitamins, birth control or aspirin, tell your medical provider as it may interfere with the Malarone.

2. Begin your Malarone regimen one to two days prior to your arrival into a reported malaria zone.

3. Swallow a tablet once a day. If you are unable to ingest medication this way, crush the tablet and mix it into with a pudding cup, small dish of ice cream or yogurt. (Dairy-based products tend to make the medication less upsetting to the digestive system.) Take your Malarone tablet at approximately the same time every day.

4. After you take the tablet, eat starchy food and a milk-based drink, such as toast and a fruit yogurt smoothie, or a bowl of breakfast cereal with milk. This will help prevent an upset stomach and nausea--the most common side effects of Malarone tablets.

5. Take an additional tablet if you become sick to your stomach within one hour of ingesting the medication.

6. Maintain the recommended medication schedule for one full week after you return from your trip.

Tags: Take Malarone, Take Malarone Tablets, your Malarone

Ways To Cook Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks can be deep fried.

Drumsticks are part of the chicken's leg and often come in large packages containing many drumsticks. They work well for parties or get-togethers as well as casual dinners, lunches or snacks at home. Chicken is a low-fat meat and drumsticks can be made in healthy ways if you are looking to cut calories or feed your family healthier meals. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Baked

Cover chicken drumsticks in beaten eggs before dredging in bread crumbs and baking for a healthy chicken dish. Substitute yogurt for eggs for a tangy twist on the recipe. You can add spices or other ingredients, such as garlic or onion powder, cayenne pepper or dijon mustard, to the bread crumbs to make the dish more flavorful. Herbs can be added to the bread crumbs as well, so choose herbs that complement the other ingredients including parsley, sage, thyme, cilantro or basil.

Grilled

Grilling provides a smoky taste and slightly charred texture that works will with chicken drumsticks. Marinate the drumsticks before grilling to optimize the flavor and really make them stand out. Use your favorite marinade or experiment with ingredients, such as soy sauce, garlic and fresh ginger for an Asian slant or barbecue sauce for a Southern feel. Place drumsticks directly on the grill and turn them occasionally to create grill marks on the chicken.

Fried

Deep-fried chicken drumsticks are a Southern favorite. To cook deep-fried drumsticks, the oil needs to be heated in a pot or a deep fryer. The drumsticks are then placed directly in the oil or fryer or dredged first in a flour and egg mixture. Once removed, they can be covered with various sauces including buffalo, honey mustard, soy, or traditional hot sauce. Serve with celery and blue cheese dressing.

Other Ideas

Chicken drumsticks can be glazed with various sauces before being baked or grilled. Consider such mixtures as maple syrup and oranges, cherry and barbecue sauce, or spicy adobo and lime sauce. Drumsticks braised in liquid will result in tender pieces of chicken that can be served over rice, pasta or potatoes.

Tags: bread crumbs, barbecue sauce, chicken drumsticks, ingredients such, other ingredients, various sauces

Know Varieties Of Fried Rice

Fried rice, a dish made famous by Asian restaurants, has captured the hearts and stomachs of many foodies worldwide. Although it originated in the Yangzhou province in China, other Asian countries like Japan, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia also create unique versions of fried rice. Learn identify different varieties of fried rice and enjoy this versatile staple of Asian cuisine. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Identify Chinese style fried rice. Cooks usually make it with leftover steamed rice, soy sauce, spring onions, garlic and vegetables. You can also include a small amount of meat, eggs or shrimp. In Chinese-American restaurants, this common type of fried rice is called "house fried rice" and is served as either main or side dish.

2. Learn more about Chahan or Japanese fried rice. This fried rice often includes some vegetables like peas, Japanese leeks and carrots. You can also include eggs, fish cake cubes or pork, if you prefer. Chahan is usually less greasy than other fried rice types.

3. Know more about the two types of Thai fried rice. Thai fried rice uses fish sauce and basil or chilies in addition to soy sauce. Also, curry fried rice is another Thai fried rice dish from the south of the country; it uses onions and curry paste as the main seasoning instead of soy sauce.

4. Find out about Nasi Goreng. This type of fried rice is common in Indonesia and Malaysia. Chefs use shallots, garlic, fish sauce and kecap manis, a sweet soy sauce, for flavoring.

5. Be aware that other Asian countries also have their own special variations of fried rice. Kimchi fried rice from Korea features the famous spicy cabbage condiment as the main flavoring ingredient. Sinangag, a type of fried rice popular in the Philippines, features toasted garlic and oil.

Tags: fried rice, fried rice, fried rice, Thai fried, Thai fried rice, type fried

Homemade Puppy Biscuits

Make homemade dog biscuits at home to give your canine a delicious treat.

Keeping your dog healthy will ensure that it lives a long time. Commercial puppy biscuits can contain ingredients that are not beneficial to the health of your dog. You can often purchase healthy biscuits at pet specialty stores, but these are not always cheap. Instead of purchasing puppy biscuits, make your own at home with items in your pantry. Making your own biscuits allows you to be in charge of your dog's diet, and it will help to ensure that your canine friend remains healthy.

Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Combine 2 1/4 tsp. of active dry yeast with 1/4 cup of warm water in a bowl. Stir until the yeast dissolves into the water.

3. Add 2 cups of tomato juice to the yeast mixture.

4. Combine 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 cups of wheat bran, 1 cup cornmeal, 4 tsp. salt, 1 tbsp. garlic powder, 2 cups whole wheat flour, 1/2 cup nonfat dry milk powder, and 1 cup rye flour in a separate bowl.

5. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. This will form stiff dough.

6. Dust a clean area lightly with flour. Roll the dough out to 1/3-inch thickness. Cut the puppy biscuits out with a cookie cutter or knife to the desired size.

7. Place the biscuits on a cookie sheet. Bake them for one hour.

8. Turn the oven off. Leave the biscuits in the oven overnight or until they harden.

9. Store the biscuits in an airtight container. The recipe will yield around seven dozen biscuits.

Tags: puppy biscuits, ensure that, yeast mixture, your canine

Dry Beef At Home

Steak lovers may prefer dry-aged beef over regular beef cuts because of its tenderness and deep flavor, but this type of beef can be very costly. Beef is mainly dry-aged by a butcher in large coolers where air circulation is optimal and temperatures are easier to maintain, but you can do it at home with minimal effort and a lot less expense. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Drying beef

1. Choose a top grade of beef such as USDA prime or choice-grade one or two. These two grades have a nice thick fat layer that will keep the meat from spoiling while it is aging. A whole loin strip or rib eye is a good choice- don't try to dry individual steaks.

2. Unwrap and rinse with cold water, drain off the water and pat the meat dry using paper towels.

3. Use one or two clean, white dish towels made of 100% cotton to wrap the meat. According to Finecooking.com, you can also use three layers of clean cheesecloth instead of dish towels. The cotton fabric will draw out excess moisture and blood.

4. Place the wrapped meat in the coldest spot in the refrigerator. This is usually the area of the bottom shelf. To be sure, place a thermometer in different areas of the refrigerator to confirm which area is the coldest. Finecooking.com states that temperatures must stay below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. Replace the cotton towels every day for up to two weeks with clean, dry towels. Towels can be reused by soaking them overnight in cold water, then soaking them in salt water for about three hours to remove blood stains, and then washing them as you normally would in your washing machine. Be sure they are completely dry before reusing.

6. Trim steaks off as needed and rewrap the remainder of the meat.

Tags: cold water, dish towels, soaking them

About Shea Butter

Shea butter is a natural plant extract that helps maintain healthy, attractive skin and hair. It has numerous health benefits, including the ability to eliminate rashes and blemishes. It also aids in moisturizing skin and hair and protects skin from free radicals, like sun and pollution. Does this Spark an idea?

Origin

Shea butter comes from the Shea-Karite tree, which can only be found in Africa. Shea butter is removed from the tree by boiling the Shea-Karite nuts to remove the liquid inside. This liquid turns hard at cooler temperatures and is the only ingredient in pure shea butter. Some manufacturers use chemical processes to refine the shea butter, and some add other ingredients to alter the color (making it whiter) or smell. Pure shea butter usually has a strong, nutty smell.

Appearance

Pure shea butter ranges in color from pale yellow to dark yellow and is a smooth, solid substance that liquefies when exposed to heat. Refined shea butter usually has a lighter color. Shea butter that has been heavily refined is usually white.

Skin Benefits

Shea butter contains vitamins A and E, which help moisturize skin and prevent fine lines and wrinkles. These vitamins soothe damaged skin and eliminate rashes, burns, blemishes and dryness. Vitamin F further moisturizes skin and also serves as a protective, healing barrier against sun and wind damage, as well as preventing pollutants from harming the skin. Shea butter has been known to fight psoriasis, eczema, and other skin conditions that cause rashes and irritation.

Hair Benefits

Shea butter can be applied directly to the hair to add moisture and protect against damage from the sun and other environmental elements. Shea butter absorbs into the hair and scalp quickly, healing damaged and brittle hair follicles and promoting healthy hair from the inside out.

Storage

Shea butter has an extremely low melting point, so it melts in almost any heat. Because of this, some people like to store it in the refrigerator. Shea butter maintains the best consistency when it is stored in a cool place, but even when it is melted it retains its healing properties. Shea butter loses strength over time and can eventually go bad, particularly when stored improperly. You will know if this has occurred because it will have a rancid, sour smell.

Tags: Shea butter, Shea butter, shea butter, Benefits Shea, Benefits Shea butter, butter usually

Get Certified In Organic Growing

According to the USDA, the National Organic Program and the Organic Foods Production Act were created so customers who buy organic foods can be confident the foods are produced and certified according to specific national organic standards. To get certified in organic growing, the certification process involves following rules set aside by the USDA and the National Organic Standards Board, or NOSB, and documenting that the rules are followed. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose an area in your yard for an organic garden. This is the area where you will grow vegetables or raise animals according to organic methods. Do not use pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers or water with an untested water supply that may contain contaminants in the area for three years. You can apply immediately to the program if the area meets this first requirement.

2. Go to the USDA website to find out get your product certified as organic (see Resources). You'll then be able to find a certifying agent for your state. Once you locate the proper agent, obtain a certification packet from that office by writing or calling.

3. Look through the packet and read carefully. If you believe you meet the criteria for organic production, complete the application form and send back to the certification office with the application fee, if required. An agent will be assigned to you.

4. Prepare for inspection and potential certification by following the procedures outlined in your informational packet. Once the inspector visits and makes the report, he will send that report to a certification board. You can use the agent as a source of information. His job is to help you become certified; however, the agent must abide by the strict rules of the certification process. The decision of the board may be certification, denial of application, noncompliance or request for more information. Your certification agent will help you interpret the report and make adjustments to your plan, if needed, and submit an amended report.

5. Market your product as organic once you are approved by the certification board. The record-keeping and compliance rules remain in place as long as you wish to keep your certification.

Tags: agent will, certification board, certification process, certified organic, National Organic, USDA National

Brown Basmati Rice Cooking Directions

Brown Basmati Rice Cooking Directions

Brown basmati rice is a healthy alternative to white rice and has a hearty taste. When preparing to cook the rice, it is important to know that brown basmati rice has a longer cook time than white rice. Following the cooking directions will give the rice proper texture. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Preparations

Prepare the brown basmati rice by washing it thoroughly. Washing the rice eliminates excess starch that can cause the grains of rice to stick together. Soak the rice in water for approximately fifteen minutes. Soaking the rice reduces cooking time and makes it easier to digest, according to Vegan Coach.

Cooking

Pour two cups of water in a pan and bring to a boil. This will make approximately one cup of rice. For additional flavor add a drop of olive oil to the water. Once boiling, pour the rice into the water and stir it gently. Leave the pot uncovered, turn the temperature on the stove to medium and cook for 30 minutes.

Steaming

One way to make brown basmati rice extra fluffy is to steam it after cooking. To do this, after the rice has been cooked, drain any excess water through a strainer and pour the rice back into the empty pot. Cover the pot and turn the heat off on the stove. Wait ten minutes as the rice steams.

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Start Your Own Cake Supply Business

Some cake supply shops also sell finished cakes.

Cake supply shops are a type of specialty retail business that focuses on offering customers cake pans, decorations, flavorings, colorings and ingredients. Many medium and large cities across the nation can support the growth of more than one cake supply shop, but those who live in smaller towns can start this type of business via the Internet. If you have a passion for baking or cake decorating, and are looking to become an entrepreneur, starting a cake supply business may be the perfect venture.

Instructions

1. Target a niche for your cake supply business. For instance, you can focus on selling professional-grade supplies, organic cake ingredients, gluten-free or vegan supplies. Alternatively, you can simply commit to offering a wider, better quality selection of supplies than can be found in local grocery stores.

2. Obtain the permits necessary in your state to operate a retail business, which may include a fictitious name certificate, resale permit or Employer Identification Number. If you plan to manufacture any of the supplies you sell, you may also need a food enterprise license from your state's health department.

3. Pick venues to sell your cake supplies. Options include an e-commerce store, brick-and-mortar storefront or renting a space in an existing complementary business, such as a bakery. Though starting online is cheapest, you will have to consider how you'll bring traffic to your website and effectively ship your merchandise.

4. Keep current on the latest cake decorating trends to help choose your inventory and better serve your customers. Reference publications, such as American Cake Decorating, to see what the latest products are.

5. Offer incentives for customers to shop with you, instead of visiting a competing cake supply store or supermarket. For example, you can offer cake-decorating classes, sell finished cakes in addition to supplies and provide customers with free recipes they can use.

6. Join an association, such as the International Cake Exploration Societ , to connect with professional cake decorators in your area. They are a large segment of your potential customer base.

7. Promote your cake supply business. Launch a website and blog, open social-networking accounts or place coupons and fliers in complementary businesses, such as craft-supply stores and culinary-arts schools.

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Raw Honey Dangers

Eating honey has many benefits for an adult but not for an infant. A child under the age of 12 months should never be fed honey, according to Alan Greene MD, FAAP, because it can result in infant botulism. An infant should not be given any kind of honey, including raw honey. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Honey

Avoid

Raw honey is different from commercial honey that has been filtered and heated so that it looks smoother and cleaner. Once honey is heated, some of the enzymes, yeast and aromas are destroyed. Raw honey will look milky and contain flecks and particles of honeycomb bits, bee pollen and broken bee wing fragments. It will also contain fine textured crystals. In addition to avoiding raw honey and commercial honey, also avoid comb honey, which is raw pure honey sections that have been taken directly from the hive, as well as liquid and creamy honey. Remember that no form of honey is safe for a baby to consume.

Content

Honey contains bacterial spores that produce Clostridium botulinum bacteria which, when ingested by children, can result in a form of food poisoning that is called infant botulism, according to Dr. Jay L. Hoecker of the Mayo Clinic.

Results

These spores can germinate inside an infant's gastrointestinal tracts, which are immature, and begin producing botulinum toxin, which is considered the most poisonous natural substance in existence. Even a tiny amount can cause paralysis of the breathing muscles and result in death.

Other Sources of Spores

Infant botulism can also be caused by breathing in spores from soil or dust (including vacuum cleaner bag dust) but the main cause of it is ingestion of honey, which is easily preventable. Don't give your child corn syrups, which may be another source of botulism contamination, according to the AAP Red Book, 2000.

Expert Insight

Infant botulism most commonly occurs in the first six months of a baby's life, although it can occur anytime during the first year, according to the Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics; Saunders 1992.

Symptoms

Symptoms of infant botulism include constipation, which can crop up from three to 30 days after the baby has ingested spore-containing honey. This will be followed by a weakened cry, decreased appetite and listlessness. If the infant doesn't receive medical treatment, the baby may start drooling from the mouth and her sucking and gagging reflexes decrease. She may lose control of her head. Respiratory arrest can occur.

Outcome

If this condition is caught in time, the infant will make a full recovery. The fatality rate among infants who were hospitalized with botulism is less than one percent.

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Best Way To Store Green Peppers

Instructions

1. Select green bell peppers that are free of blemishes and bruises. Firm fruits with smooth skin and stems intact are the best choices. Peppers with soft, dark spots are starting to decay and may be rotten inside, so avoid them even if you plan on using them immediately.

2. Store green bell peppers for short-term use by refrigerating them in the produce drawer of your refrigerator. To ensure good air flow, remove peppers from any plastic bag or container they were purchased in. With proper refrigeration, a healthy bell pepper should last from three to five days in the refrigerator.

3. Store green bell peppers for up to a month by freezing them. Frozen properly, bell peppers should retain good flavor and color for a month. Wash, core and seed fresh bell peppers to get them ready for freezing. They can be frozen either whole or sliced.

4. Store bell peppers for long periods by blanching and then freezing them. Blanching will ensure good color and flavor retention. Place washed, cored and seeded bell peppers in boiling water for two to three minutes, and then freeze them. They may be frozen whole, halved, sliced or chopped.

5. Use a dehydrator to dry large quantities of bell peppers for long-term storage. Dried bell pepper is used in many prepared dinner mixes and reconstitutes well. Prepare the peppers by cleaning, coring and seeding them, then chop them into large pieces and place them on the dehydrator. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time. Depending on the model dehydrator you're using, you may have to rotate the trays once or twice.

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A List Of Macrobiotic Foods

Macrobiotic diets permit brown rice and other whole grains.

A macrobiotic diet is a diet regimen developed in the 1930s by George Ohsawa, a Japanese philosopher. The word macrobiotic translates to "long life." Eating a macrobiotic diet may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease because this diet tends to be low in fat and high in fiber. Proponents of macrobiotic diets also claim this diet prevents and cures cancer and other illnesses, but no randomized clinical studies have supported this claim, according to the American Cancer Society.

Whole Cereal Grains

Organically grown whole cereal grains make up about 50 percent of an ideal macrobiotic diet. Acceptable whole cereal grains include brown rice, barley, oats, whole wheat and corn.

Vegetables

Organically grown vegetables, such as broccoli, green cabbage kale, bok choy and collards compose about 30 percent of a macrobiotic diet. Pumpkin, daikon, carrots, winter squash and onions may also be consumed.

Soups

Bean or vegetable-based soups and broths compose 5 to 10 percent of a macrobiotic diet. For example, lentil soup and pumpkin soup can be eaten.

Beans and Sea Vegetables

Beans and sea vegetables also make up 5 to 10 percent of a macrobiotic diet. Acceptable beans include chickpeas, lentils and azuki beans, as well as bean products such as tofu and tempeh. Sea vegetables include wakame, agar-agar, hiziki, nori, arame, kombu and dulse.

What Not to Eat

Macrobiotic diets discourage some vegetables, such as tomatoes, potatoes, peppers and beets. Macrobiotic also diets do not permit animal products, including eggs, meat, milk and other dairy products, which can cause B-12 deficiencies and malnutrition. In addition, macrobiotic diets do not allow coffee, sugar, chocolate, soda, tropical fruits or heavily processed foods.

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Shelf Life Of Pure Shea Butter

Shea butter is obtained by extracting a fatty substance from the shea tree. Shea butter is used in skin creams and lotions because of its moisturizing properties. The average shelf life of raw, unrefined shea butter is 12 to 24 months. Does this Spark an idea?

Storage

To prolong the shelf life, you should store shea butter below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Considerations

Bright light or extended sun exposure can degrade shea butter and shorten its shelf life.

Preservation

You can add natural preservatives, such as Vitamin E, to the shea butter to make it last longer.

Warning

Never buy shea butter that wasn't transported in airtight containers and maintained in a cool, dark environment during transport. The shea butter will probably have a shortened shelf life and might even be rancid.

Benefits

In addition to the skin moisturizing benefits of shea butter, it has minor sunscreen properties, has been used as a decongestant and anti-inflammatory and can be used for cooking oil or to light lamps.

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Consume Chia

Top your favorite salad with a handful of Chia seeds.

Chia is a seed that dates back to the Aztec period, but it is widely known as the seed behind the "hairy" sprouts of the Chia Pet. According to Dr. Wayne Coates, an expert in Chia, it is "the richest plant source of omega-3 fatty acids and contains natural antioxidants." Chia is also high in fiber, protein and other nutrients. For this reason, Chia is a nutritious addition to any diet. It is very versatile and can be prepared in a variety of ways. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Sprinkle a handful of Chia seeds over your breakfast cereal in the morning. The seeds give an added kick of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and protein.

2. Add a tablespoon of Chia seeds to your salad at lunch time for added crunch and nutritional benefits.

3. Mix 3/4 cup of Chia seeds with the milk and allow to sit for 30 minutes. The seeds will become gelatinous after sitting in liquid, creating a healthy, raw pudding. Flavor with vanilla extract or honey, if desired.

4. Crack an egg, beat it then dredge your fish through the mixture. Sprinkle Chia seeds over both sides of the fish and then pan-fry. The seeds will create a crunchy, nutritious crust on the fish.

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Homemade Shampoo For Dogs With Allergies

Dogs, like people, have allergies that cause skin irritation.

Dogs with healthy, normal skin don't scratch incessantly or develop rashes. Yet, some dogs have allergies that are triggered by certain foods, flea deterrent topicals or other allergens that can cause itchy, irritated skin and result in scratching and discomfort for the animals. One way to help soothe your pet's skin and give it some relief from the irritation of scratching is to bathe it in a homemade shampoo for dogs with allergies.

Instructions

Soothing Shampoo

1. Measure and pour 1/3 cup of glycerin,1 cup lemon liquid Joy, 1 cup white vinegar and 1 quart of water through a funnel into a liter-size bottle.

2. Put the lid on the bottle tightly and shake to mix the ingredients.

3. Use the mixture as a shampoo whenever your dog seems to be irritated or itchy. Leftover shampoo can be saved in a tightly closed bottle for at least three months. Always shake the bottle before using to remix the contents.

Oatmeal Scrub

4. Pour 1 cup of colloidal oatmeal in a bowl. Add 1 cup of warm water and stir with a spoon to combine thoroughly until you have a pasty substance.

5. Pour the oatmeal mixture into a large, clean sock and tie off the top with a twist tie or by looping the top of the sock around itself and pulling it back through the hole to form a knot.

6. Scrub the affected areas of your dog's skin with the oatmeal-filled part of the sock gently in a circular motion for approximately 10 minutes.

7. Wipe the areas with a warm, wet wash cloth. Repeat the process as needed.

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Kitchener Waterloo Chef Training

The Kitchener Waterloo area offers various chef training opportunities.

In the Kitchener Waterloo area of Ontario, Canada, there are three options for training as a chef/cook. Programs are varied in length and method of presentation. Each program has its own educational requirements for acceptance. The Ontario Ministry of Education recognizes the hours and work experience gained through each facility as part of the government's skilled apprenticeship and trades process.

St. Louis Adult Learning & Continuing Education Centre

St. Louis Adult Education/Training Centre is run by the Waterloo Region District Separate School Board to assist students in the completion of their high school diplomas and to provide a foundation for training towards a career. The chef/cook course requires the successful completion of sixteen high school credits and that the applicant be eighteen years of age or older and have proof of Canadian citizenship or Landed Immigrant status. The course runs for 1260 hours with 28 weeks of in class instruction and 14 weeks workplace training. Classes run 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, while work placement times vary. Licensed childcare is available on-site at the centre's Weber St., Kitchener location.

Conestoga College

Conestoga College is a publicly funded college administered by the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. Conestoga's Culinary Skills Chef Training (Co-op) Program is a one year Ontario College Certificate program provided at the college's Waterloo campus on University Ave. An Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent is required with Grade 12 college or university English and Grade 11 college or university Mathematics included. Mature students (over 19 years of age) may be admitted with the successful completion of Conestoga College's Preparatory Communications and Mathematics courses. The chef's course runs for a full year with one term in the classroom and one term in job placement.

Liaison College

Liaison College's Kitchener campus is located on Montgomery Road in Kitchener, Ontario. Liaison is a private career college that bills itself as Ontario's largest culinary arts and chef training facility. The college offers seven professional training programs from Cook Basic to Personal or Specialist Chef leading to diplomas in the culinary arts. Flexible scheduling allows the student to take courses at night or on weekends. Liaison teaches the culinary arts exclusively and boasts a 90 percent placement rate due to their connections within the restaurant industry. Courses can be completed in less than a year with a full time commitment to study.

Financial Considerations

Fees vary with each facility.

St. Louis Adult Learning Centre's chef training offers free tuition with a materials fee of $700 for a uniform, textbook and utensils. Fees to write challenge exams from the Ministry of Training, Colleges and University as part of the apprenticeship process, or Red Seal Certification for cross-Canada work are extra.

Conestoga College tuition is $2320 plus $477.20 co-op fees for the one year course. Graduates are eligible to write the Provincial Trade of Cook Certificate of Qualification exam at no added cost. Red Seal Certification is extra.

Liaison College asks prospective registrants to contact them regarding fees, as they vary with each of the seven courses available.

Other Considerations

Time is a major factor in deciding what course is best for the individual applicant. Conestoga College and St. Louis require all day, every day, attendance while Liaison offers evening classes to allow for daytime commitments elsewhere. St. Louis and Conestoga have classes beginning twice a year while Liaison provides staggered entry in its various campuses across southern Ontario if the applicant is willing to commute to class.

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Dry Shampoo Made With Oatmeal

Dry shampoo is a time saver for people on the go. It can be complex and made of many ingredients or very simple and made of only one or two ingredients. Oatmeal is a popular ingredient in dry shampoo. Does this Spark an idea?

Function

The oatmeal powder in a dry shampoo binds to oil and dirt in the hair, and brushing the hair removes the oil and dirt along with the powder.

Benefits

Oatmeal dry shampoo is a way to freshen the hair when you do not have access to water, are ill or bedridden or do not have time for a shower.

Considerations

Some may be allergic to the oatmeal used in oatmeal dry shampoo. Be sure to test a small area of skin for reaction before using the shampoo in your hair.

Misconceptions

Dry shampoo is not a replacement for showering or traditional shampoo; it is used to freshen up between hair washes.

Make It Yourself

You can make your own dry shampoo at home. Grind 1 tbsp. plain oatmeal to a fine consistency in a coffee grinder, then pour the powder into a salt shaker and shake onto hair. Brush the powder through your hair and go--it's that simple.

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Decorate Oil Lamps For Weddings

If you're planning a wedding and intend on a low-budget do-it-yourself wedding, one of the places you can cut your budget is with the decorations. Some brides make the mistake of concentrating too much of their budget on piles and piles of silk flowers to make sizable centerpieces for each table. Instead, invest some of your money on inexpensive oil lamps to decorate your wedding tables. The look is dramatic in a dim room, and they will look more expensive and impressive than fake flowers. Decorating them is easier than you might think.

Instructions

1. Purchase oil lamps that best fit with your personality and wedding theme. Oil lamps today come in styles ranging from sleek and modern glass spheres to traditional old-fashioned lamps with brass bases.

2. Clean the glass thoroughly with the rubbing alcohol and lint-free cloth. Glass often has oil, dirt or grime on it (from handling or shipping), and this can affect how the paint adheres to it. For best results, wear rubber gloves so that your own body oils do not remain on the glass from touching it as you clean it.

3. Paint the glass in colors and patterns that go with your wedding and personal style. Follow the directions on the bottles of paint, because some brands of acrylic craft paint require you to cure the paint in the oven at a low temperature, while some just need to air dry.

4. Use ribbon in coordinating colors, if you desire. Tie these around the base, well away from the flame.

5. Fill the oil lamps with colored lamp oil in a shade that coordinates with your wedding colors, but contrasts with your wedding table linen. For instance, if your wedding colors are pale yellow and green, and your table linens are yellow, you should use a soft green oil. Using yellow oil on a yellow table cloth will make the oil blend in, and the oil lamps will not stand out as much as you want them to.

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Ideas And Tips To Organize Small Kitchen Arrangements

Small kitchen spaces are at risk of becoming cluttered with dishware, cookware and other items.

Organizing a small kitchen can be a frustrating design endeavor; however, it is essential in assuring that your space is both functional and stylish. Improper organization can lead to a suffocating and overbearing kitchen arrangement. To avoid these problems, several ideas and tips can help. Does this Spark an idea?

Taking Inventory

When you have a small kitchen space to work with, the items you decide to store and display in it should be relatively few. To keep potential clutter in check, Martha Stewart recommends taking an inventory of all of the dishware, cookware and utensils that you own. If you have unnecessary duplicates of items, such as two ice cream scoops, or two blenders, it is a good idea to get rid of the one you like less, or the one that does not match your kitchen's decor. When you come across seldom-used items, such as a large turkey-carving platter or punch bowl, try relocating them to the basement, attic or garage instead of keeping them cramped up in the kitchen.

Cabinet Considerations

While most kitchens rely on overhead cabinets for storing plates, bowls, glasses and other cookware, they may not always be the best options when organizing small spaces. Cabinets, with their typically opaque, enclosed structures, can appear bulky in small kitchens, making the walls seem heavy and bogged down. As an alternative, HGTV recommends using open shelving for storage, which you can paint to match any kitchen decor. Shelves will help give your space a more airy feel, as they allow for more open patches of wall to show through. If you must incorporate cabinets into your kitchen design, consider using tall, "stretch" cabinets, which will make the walls appear taller. Cabinets with glass windows can also help make kitchens appear more open.

Storage Solutions

If your small kitchen has a matching small pantry, HGTV recommends stocking it with wire and/or woven baskets. You can stack the baskets on the pantry's shelves and fill each with a different type of item. For example, you can designate one basket for canned foods, another for pastas and another for chips and other snacks. If your kitchen does not have a pantry, you may want to invest in a china hutch, which typically has closed drawers or cabinets at its bottom and open shelving at its top.

Refrigeration Considerations

When it comes to organizing items that require refrigeration, using a large, spacious refrigerator in a small kitchen can waste a lot of precious floor space. Instead, as Better Homes and Gardens recommends, try using a smaller, narrower refrigerator, and inset it into a wall.

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List Of The Characteristics Of Health Food Products

Healthy foods promote vitality.

Health food products offer quality nutrition allowing an individual to perform well throughout the day. Whether at work or during exercise, her tissues, muscles, nerves, cells, and organs continue to benefit. She feels neither sluggish nor tired since the foods she eats actually feed the body.

Natural Ingredients

Dietetic benefits remain high.

Foods with natural ingredients are free of food coloring, insecticides, high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) or other unnatural ingredients. For example, fruit juices contain pulp with no added sugar or chemicals and frozen greens come packaged in their own natural juices with a bit of salt and nothing else. Vitamins and mineral supplements contain whole foods minus synthetic properties.

Higher Nutritional Value

Foods that heal.

The higher nutritional value of health foods is in part because of the lack of chemical pesticides and repellents sprayed onto the food during cultivation. Health foods provide nutritional value without pesticides. That means the dietary value or vitamin and mineral content of vegetables such as cabbages, lettuce, tomatoes, or spinach remains most favorable.

Freshness

Freshness is a priority in health food stores.

Health foods businesses promote the freshness of their products to attract customers concerned about their health. They stock freezers with products frozen as soon after harvest as possible. The produce section comes with the freshest of frozen pineapples, kiwi, greens, cauliflower, and other foods. The food smells good from the moment that it is peeled, unpacked, or opened and tastes good while providing nourishment and energy to the body.

Raw Food Nutrition

Good protein source for non-meat eaters.

The nutritional benefits of nuts and seeds are greatest when eaten raw. Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, almonds, walnuts, and pecans provide fiber, carbohydrates, protein, and iron. The protein is an added benefit for vegans and vegetarians. Other raw foods, such as bananas, broccoli, greens, and citrus fruits also provide nutritional benefits.

Detoxification

There are cleansing properties in many health foods.

Health food products flush the system and cleanse the body of toxins that build up from the environment, stress and other foodstuffs. For instance, after eating fruits and vegetables, the natural process of detoxification begins, especially with the elimination of meats. When these healthy foods are eaten regularly, there is a natural resistance to the system clogging up.

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Development Of Sustainable Tourism In Italy

Italy

Tourism impacts the environment with the destructive force of its visitors. Sustainable tourism in Italy has become the goal of historians, environmentalists and tourism boards throughout the country. The ability to provide tourists the opportunity to visit destinations in Italy, without the "loved-to-death" effect, is being implemented through various sustainable tourism projects and responsible businesses. Sustainable tourism strives to conserve resources, minimize pollution and leave less of a footprint on the destination's environment.

Education

Parks, historic communities, marine and wildlife exhibits throughout Italy are educating visitors with multilanguage literature on the importance of low-impact tourism. The literature explains the proper etiquette for tourists when visiting cathedrals, entering nature preserves or exploring the small villages with an emphasis on reducing the use of natural resources and preserving the natural or historical state of the attraction.

Tour Operators

Green tourism marketing is lacking in Italy as opposed to many other places around the world. However, some Italian tour operators use group travel's low-impact effect as a marketing tool. Tour buses reduce congestion and pollution when compared to individual automobiles. Sustainable tourism-minded Italian companies like Citalia promote exploring the sights of Italy through walking tours with stays at green hotels.

Local Government

Local governments and communities are relying upon themselves to implement sustainable tourism. The International Conference for Sustainable Tourism was held in the Province of Rimini, Italy in June 2001. Since that time, many communities such as Municipality of Chioggia, Comunitá Montana del Giovo, Municipality of S. Benedetto del Tronto and Venice have signed agreements pledging responsible use of natural and social resources, environmental protection, respect for cultural heritage and enhanced local social conditions.

Sustainable Tourism Projects

Cinque Terra Sustainable Tourism Project is on the northeastern coast of Italy. The five villages, Montersosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggore, attract a huge number of tourists that cause a drain on the environment. In 1999 the area was recognized as a national park. Visitors are required to purchase a card that allows them to stay for periods up to seven days. To reduce the number of personal vehicles in the park, the price of the card includes transportation by bus and rail.

Real Estate Investments

Real estate investors have found profitable opportunities available in Italy's ancient communities. Instead of building new buildings, older buildings have tax benefits and available grants that make the restoration of villages and small hamlets a profitable enterprise. The restoration of these buildings maintains the historic value of small communities that would otherwise disappear, like so many other places in Europe. These projects are considerably less costly than new construction. Abruzzo & Basilicata, Italy Sustainable Tourism projects offer beautiful old buildings for as little as $30,000.

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Create A Gift Certificate For Massage

Massages are perfect gifts for people with everything.

Massages are a wonderful gift idea for a person who has everything, or when you're on a budget and want to give a personal present. Rather than simply writing the gift of a massage inside a card or telling the recipient, create a homemade gift certificate you can include in a card or wrap as a present.

Instructions

Gift Certificate Template

1. You can design and customize your massage gift certificate using an online template. Free gift certificate templates can be printed and can be customized for your massage gift.

2. Fill in your information using a text editor or word processing program. Include the recipient's name and a special message. Include some details about the massage. Add an expiration date.

3. Print the certificate on regular paper or card stock. Cut out and sign at the bottom to make it official. Place in an envelope to present as a gift.

Custom Gift Certificate

4. Open a word processing program and open a blank document.

5. Create a box with an outline or border. Inside the box add an image, graphic or a logo to make it more decorative and appealing.

6. Add text to the box detailing what the certificate is for, when it is valid and a signature line to be signed by you.

7. Print the certificate on paper or cardstock. Sign the signature line validating the certificate. Cut with a paper cutter and insert in an envelope.

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Grow Swiss Chard In Your Home Vegetable Garden

Swiss chard is a versatile green.

Growing best in the cool weather of spring or fall, Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris) is a member of the beet family. As an annual vegetable it can be grown in most areas of the United States where spring or fall temperatures are normally in the 70s. It can also be grown during winter in mild climates. Its leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, but is most commonly used as cooked greens in the same ways as spinach. The stems can also be eaten, although they require a longer cooking time than the leaves. Varieties of Swiss chard exist with a variety of brightly colored stems or white stems. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Pick a spot in your vegetable garden. Swiss chard requires fertile, well-drained soil, similar to that in most vegetable gardens.

2. Prepare the soil by incorporating 2 to 4 inches of compost. Turn the soil over with a garden spade to incorporate the compost into the soil. Smooth out the surface with a garden rake when finished digging.

3. Plant seeds of Swiss chard three to four weeks before the last spring frost in your area. Sow seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart. Plant transplants near or slightly after the last frost in your area, as they are more susceptible to frost damage than seedlings planted in the ground. Space transplants 6 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart.

4. Thin the seedlings when they have four true leaves, so the remaining plants stand 6 inches apart within their rows.

5. Cultivate to remove weeds between the plants and in the aisles between the rows.

6. Water regularly, so Swiss chard receives at least 1 inch of water per week.

7. Harvest Swiss chard when leaves reach full size, approximately 50 to 75 days after planting.

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Allergy Remedies For Pregnant Women

Pollen floating on the surface of water.

When you are pregnant, allergy symptoms are exacerbated by two factors. First, pregnant women tend to have more nasal congestion because of increased blood volume. Secondly, they are limited in the medications they can take. There are a number of safe options for managing allergy symptoms during pregnancy. Always consult with your doctor before taking any medication while pregnant, even over-the-counter medications.

Minimizing Irritation

Minimize your exposure to irritants as much as you can. If you are allergic to pollen, for example, keep your windows closed and use your air conditioner. Change your air conditioner filters regularly, and consider having your ducts professionally cleaned. An air purifier also might help. Minimize your time spent outdoors, especially before 10 a.m., when pollen levels are at their highest. Always bathe before going to bed and wash your hair, as pollen can lodge there when you are outdoors. Keep your indoor environment clean and free from mold and mildew. Consider using a humidifier to prevent irritation from dry nasal passages, and be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Using saline nasal mist also might help minimize discomfort in the nasal passages.

Dietary Issues

If you have pollen allergies, consider whether oral allergy syndrome may be affecting you. For example, a person allergic to ragweed may experience allergy symptoms after eating a raw banana. If you do have oral allergy syndrome, you may be able to eat offending foods without symptoms if they are cooked. Make sure to maintain a healthy diet with a variety of foods for the health of you and baby. Dr. Cathleen London, a family physician who also uses natural treatments for her patients, recommends liberal use of cooked tomato products in your diet to help minimize allergy symptoms. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, phytoene and phytofluene.

Nasal Irrigation

Nasal irrigation is a popular choice for relieving allergy symptoms. Nasal irrigation helps rinse allergens out of the nasal passages and also can be soothing. Because no medication is involved, it is safe to use during pregnancy. You can use a neti pot or purchase products designed especially for nasal irrigation.

Honey

Local honey is a traditional remedy for allergy symptoms. The best honey for this purpose is raw, unpasteurized honey from your local area. The theory is that it will contain small amounts of local allergens, and consuming the honey will allow you to build up an immunity, although there are no scientific studies to confirm this. Many allergy sufferers have found great success with this method. Begin with a very small amount of honey each day, less than 1/4 tsp., to make sure you will not have any adverse reactions. Gradually increase your intake until you are consuming about 1 tsp. daily.

Other Options

Homeopathy is safe to use during pregnancy. For best results, consult with a trained homeopath in your area. Acupressure can help relieve allergy symptoms, although there are some acupressure points that should be avoided during pregnancy. A 2008 study from the United Kingdom found that probiotics, such as lactobacillus casei shirota, minimized symptoms of allergic rhinitis. You may want to try a probiotic supplement to see if it helps with your allergy symptoms.

Tags: allergy symptoms, during pregnancy, nasal passages, allergy syndrome, also might

Make Luscious Chocolatecream Cheese Truffles

Make your own truffles.

Chocolate truffles are particular popular around Valentine's Day, but you don't have to restrict yourself -- or your sweetheart -- to having this delicious treat just once a year. Combining chocolate with cream cheese makes thick, rich truffles that are perfect for gift-giving, even if the gift is just to yourself.

Instructions

1. Melt 12 ounces of chocolate in the microwave or by setting it over a bath of simmering water. Chocolate burns easily, so keep an eye on it. Make sure no moisture gets into the melting chocolate or it will seize up and be ruined.

2. Beat the cream cheese until fluffy. Slowly beat in the powdered sugar. The mixture should be fairly stiff.

3. Add flavoring or liqueur and continue beating until incorporated. An option is to separate the mixture into a few different batches, then add a different flavoring to each.

4. Pour in the melted chocolate and continue beating until incorporated.

5. Roll the mixture into balls the size of a large walnut. Set on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper until cool. The candies should be firm to the touch.

6. Melt the remaining chocolate. Use a fork to dip each hardened candy into the melted chocolate. Allow any excess to drip back into bowl, and replace the candies on the parchment paper. Let cool.

Tags: beating until, beating until incorporated, continue beating, continue beating until, cream cheese, melted chocolate, mixture into

Farm Lesson Plans For Toddlers

Plan farm-themed lessons for toddlers.

Harness the toddler-pleasing appeal of tractors, barn-yard animals and life on the farm when planning farm lessons for your class. Kick off farm week with a visit to the local library to borrow a stack of farm-themed children's stories. Place pictures of farms and the animals that live there on classroom walls. Fill the blanks in your lesson-planning book with simple farm activities toddlers will enjoy.

Farm Language Lesson

Teach farm-animal sounds and memorization skills at circle time with the help of the children's classic, Old MacDonald. Play a recording or sing the song each day of farm week. (See lyrics at dltk-teach.com.) Before class, gather stuffed farm animals that match the song lyrics. Place the animals in a pile in the center of your circle. As you sing the song with children, lift the corresponding animal when making the animal sound. As the week progresses, give each child an animal to hold. When the class sings the song, the child with the matching animal holds it up and makes the animal sound.

Farm Art

Plan two farm-themed art projects for your toddler class. Make pictures of sheep from children's hand-prints early in the week. Paint little hands with black tempera paint. Press painted hands onto green construction paper. When the hand-prints are dry, turn the papers upside down. Let toddlers dip cotton balls into liquid glue, and then place them on the palm of the hand-prints to become the sheep's woolly coat. The thumb-print is the head of the sheep and the fingers become the legs.

Wrap up farm week art-time with a collage project. Before class, cut various-size circles, rectangles, squares and triangles from colored construction paper. Show your toddlers pictures of tractors. Give each child a piece of white construction paper and help the children use glue sticks to make a tractor from the paper shapes.

Dramatic Farm Play

Cover language-development and social skills practice in your toddler lesson plan with the placement of farm-themed clothing and objects in your classroom pretend center. When you introduce the items to your toddlers, name each object and describe its use on the farm. Provide a child-size plastic hoe and shovel. Place stuffed farm animals in the center. Show the children the themed clothing you added to the dress-up basket. Explain each article of clothing -- a straw hat to shield a farmer's head from the sun and boots to protect his shoes in the barn. Observe toddlers at play as farmers, and then write a synopsis of the interaction you observed to post on your classroom bulletin board.

Farm Matching Lesson

Plan a small-group lesson that teaches toddlers about farm-animal mothers and babies, while providing fine motor-skill practice. Buy farm-animal matching cards at a teacher supply store or make a set. You can find a set of farm-animal cards to download and print at alphabet-soup.net. Color, cut and laminate the cards. Lay out all of the cards and encourage the children to take turns selecting a mother animal from the cards, and then matching it to the correct baby animal.

Tags: construction paper, farm week, animal sound, animals that, Before class, each child

Use Soap Fragrance Oil In Candle Making

High-quality fragrance oils produce strong scents.

The same fragrance oils that are used in soap can also be used in candle making. The carrier will only hold a limited amount of fragrance. With wax, 1 to 1.5 ounces of fragrance are used per 1 lb. of wax. The equipment used in candle making will be forever relegated to this task, as wax will harden on your tools as it cools. Melting wax can be dangerous and caution is necessary throughout the process.

Instructions

1. Set up a double boiler by placing an old aluminum coffee pot in a slightly larger saucepan. Put a metal cookie cutter in the bottom to keep the coffee pot elevated off the bottom of the saucepan.

2. Pour 2-inches of water into the saucepan and place your wax filled coffee pot in the water. Bring the water to a boil.

3. Lower the heat to simmer. Watch the water level and replace any evaporated water as you proceed. Do not let the saucepan run out of water.

4. Monitor the temperature of the wax as it liquefies with a glass thermometer. When it reaches 175 degrees Fahrenheit, add the fragrance oil and stir gently with a wooden stirrer. An old wooden spoon will work well as a stirrer.

5. Set a pre-tabbed wick in the middle of your container/mold. Hold it in place by tying it to a pencil laid across the top of the candle vessel.

6. Pour the melted wax carefully into the container. The wax temperature should be 160 degrees Fahrenheit at this step.

7. Cool for 6 hours or more and fill any indentation in the wax surface with 180 degree wax. This higher temperature creates better adhesion between the layers.

Tags: degrees Fahrenheit, fragrance oils, used candle, used candle making

Himalayan Pink Salt Benefits

Himalayan pink salt is the purest form of salt and is mined from the Himalayan mountains.

Himalayan pink salt is mined by hand in the Himalayan mountains. The color can range from white to deep red, depending upon its mineral and iron levels. Himalayan salt is richer in minerals than ordinary table salt, containing over 84 kinds that include calcium, potassium and magnesium. Believed to be the purest form of salt on Earth, Himalayan pink salt is mined from sea salt deposits from ancient sea beds--meaning it doesn't contain the pollutants and chemicals found in today's sea salt.

Health

Himalayan pink salt's natural minerals make it the preferred choice of chefs, spas and health professionals who promote the holistic lifestyle. Adding Himalayan salt to your regular diet can provide essential minerals and support proper absorption of nutrients. It can also normalize blood pressure, eliminate toxins and help balance the body's electrolytes and pH levels.

Therapeutic

Himalayan pink salt can be used to create a brine bath, which can help strengthen the immune system, detoxify your body and heal skin diseases. Soaking in brine baths after surgery can also assist in quicker healing and recovery. Facial steams help minimize asthma and bronchitis symptoms, as well as ear infections and some respiratory tract infections. Soak a cloth in a brine solution of the Himalayan pink salt and use for open wounds or for joint conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis or gout.

Cooking

Due to its higher mineral content, Himalayan pink salt can be used to replace regular table or sea salt to support a healthy lifestyle. Use it in the kitchen anywhere regular table salt is called for. Multiple grind choices are available, including fine, medium and rock. Finely ground can be used in regular salt shakers, while the larger pieces can be ground in a mill. It provides a richer flavor than table or sea salt and does not contain additional chemicals or additives. Himalayan salt is easier for the body to digest, and its high mineral content provides more nutrients, encouraging better health.

Tags: Himalayan pink salt, pink salt, Himalayan pink, table salt, Himalayan salt

Instructions For Making Lye Soap

Old-fashioned lye soap can be made in your own kitchen.

Lye soap is one of the oldest types of soap. Lye soap is made using a method called cold process soap making, and it usually includes several different types of oils or animal fat. This type of soap can be used for everything from household cleaning to bathing. It is possible to make lye soap at home, although it can be very tricky to do and is a project best left to experienced soap makers.

Instructions

1. Put on your gloves, goggles and long-sleeved shirt to avoid burning your skin when working with lye.

2. Pour the water into the glass mixing bowl and then add the lye to the bowl.

3. Gently stir the mixture and set it aside. (Place the bowl outside if you are not in a well-ventilated area.) Be careful: the mixture will be extremely hot due to the chemical reaction of lye and water.

4. Place all of the oils into the cooking pot, and place the cooking pot on the stove.

5. Heat the oils over low heat until they are thoroughly liquefied and begin to mix. (Some of the oils, such as the coconut oil, are solid at room temperature.) Stir to combine.

6. Remove the oils from the heat, and allow to cool to 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

7. Add the lye mixture to the oils when it has also cooled to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Be careful: the mixtures are both hot and can burn you. Also, do not add the oil mixture to the lye mixture---the steps must be followed as described here.

8. Use an immersion blender to mix the oils until they reach "trace" stage. This means that, when the oils are stirred with a spoon, the spoon leaves a little trail behind in the soap.

9. Carefully pour the soap into molds and allow to harden for 5 days.

10. Remove the soap from the molds. Place it in a cool, dry place to age for another 4 to 6 weeks before using.

Tags: degrees Fahrenheit, soap made, until they

Make A Cookbook Outline

Make an outline for your cookbook recipes so it is easier for users to navigate.

Cookbooks are great ways to make money for charity fundraisers and event funding or to promote your own cooking or nutrition business. However, simply throwing a bunch of recipes together can cause confusion and frustration for those trying to navigate the cookbook to find one specific type of recipe. Creating an outline will help you organize your recipes to create an easy-to-navigate cookbook complete with a table of contents. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Decide how you want to organize your recipes, which depends on the purpose of your cookbook. If it is a dinnertime cookbook, you may want to divide the recipes into appetizers, soups, salads, entrees and desserts. If it is a general cookbook, you may want to divide it into meals--like breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks--or by main ingredient--like beef, chicken and pork.

2. Create the order of the outline. Place the sections in a logical order to make it easier for readers to navigate. For example, place breakfast items before lunch items. Or, organize the sections in alphabetical order, such as by main ingredient.

3. Create subsections to your cookbook outline, if needed. Make sure all of your recipes can be organized easily within each section.

4. File each recipe under its appropriate section. Organize the recipes in each section alphabetically.

5. Type up a final listing of the outline to put in the back of your book or to use as a table of contents once all of the recipes have been organized.

Tags: your cookbook, your recipes, cookbook want, cookbook want divide, each section

Find Printable Grocery Coupons Online

Print coupons and save money on grocery bills. Read on to find out where to find printable grocery coupons online.

When the poor economy hits you in the wallet, many people start looking for new easy ways to save money. One easy way to save money on groceries involves finding printable coupons online. You can save money on groceries and easily cut your grocery bill by one quarter or more by visiting grocery coupon websites and finding printable coupons for each week's trip to the grocery store. Keep reading to learn save money on groceries using coupon websites.

Instructions

1. START BY WRITING UP YOUR SHOPPING LIST. Go through your refrigerator, kitchen cabinets, storage closet and pantry to determine what grocery items will be purchasing this week.

2. VISIT A COUPON WEBSITE. There are many coupon websites on the internet that help shoppers save money on groceries. Some great coupon websites include Coupons.com, CouponMountain.com and PPGazette.com. The latter website requires a free membership, so you'll need to sign up before you can print free grocery coupons from this website. You can also find coupons online by visiting manufacturer website or brand websites.

3. SEARCH FOR GROCERY COUPONS BY BRAND NAME OR CATEGORY. Most coupon websites allow you to browse coupons by category (i.e. diaper coupons, bleach coupons, etc.) or you can search by a specific product name (i.e. Pampers coupons, Clorox coupons, etc.). Go through your grocery list and search for coupons for each item.

4. PRINT COUPONS FROM THE INTERNET: Once you locate a coupon for an item on your grocery shopping list, print the coupon and check off the corresponding item on your list.

5. FIND A GROCERY STORE THAT ACCEPTS COUPONS PRINTED FROM THE INTERNET. Not every grocery store will accept printable grocery coupons due to problems with fake coupons. So you'll want to call or visit the store's courtesy desk to determine if the store will accept coupons printed from coupon websites or manufacturer websites. If you find several stores that accept printed coupons from the web, do a bit of comparison shopping. Pick a dozen or so very specific items and find out the prices for those grocery items at each store. This will give you an idea of which store has the best prices.

Tags: coupon websites, save money, money groceries, save money groceries, coupons online, your grocery, coupons each

Vocational Cooking Schools

There are many choices of vocational cooking schools across the country.

There are a variety of vocational cooking schools across the country that offer programs in culinary arts. According to the Chef School Review website, the specific programs prospective students can choose from include baking and pastry arts, catering and restaurant management. Vocational cooking schools give students the opportunity to gain the skills necessary to excel in the field of culinary arts that they choose.

California Culinary Academy

The California Culinary Academy (CCA) is in San Francisco and offers classic culinary techniques through its Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts. This school has a staff of culinary professors who teach techniques focusing on global cuisine. The CCA Le Cordon Bleu School allows students to work together with experienced chef instructors who give the students the skills to pursue a professional career in the culinary industry.

Art Institutes

Art Institutes are located across the country, including schools in California, Arizona, Florida and Colorado. The Art Institute's culinary arts program gives students practical experience in a real kitchen so they can learn cooking skills, while also learning various business aspects of working in the field. These business aspects include cost control, sanitation and safety, menu and beverage management, nutrition and kitchen management.

Culinary School of the Rockies

The Culinary School of the Rockies in Boulder, Colorado, offers students a variety of programs, along with the opportunity to participate in an off-site Colorado Farm to Table Externship, according to RWM.org. The classes in this culinary arts program teach students about food, ingredients, cooking techniques and dining. The school gives students a choice of four program types, including culinary arts, pastry arts and a part-time intensive chef track. The part- and full-time pastry programs can be completed in five to 15 weeks; the intensive part-time chef track is typically done in 18 weeks; and the full-time culinary arts program is completed over the course of six months.

Considerations

Regardless of which vocational culinary school students attend, it is likely they will learn the preparation of a variety of cuisines, create a menu, manage a staff and the techniques to sell ideas, according to RWM.org. Training in these schools gives students the opportunity to train on the plants, animals and grains used to produce the food, giving them skills upon graduation to become a restaurant chef, pastry chef, restaurant manager, executive chef, catering chef or manager, events manager, or food and beverage manager.

Tags: culinary arts, across country, arts program, cooking schools, culinary arts program, gives students, business aspects

Buy Fresh Blackberries In Indiana

Indulge in a mouthful of fresh fruit and support local farmers in Indiana at the same time.

Few things say "summer" like biting into a ripe, fresh berry. Because Indiana is home to hundreds of fresh farmer's markets, there is no point in buying a plastic clam-shell container of week-old California-grown blackberries from the grocery store when you could buy a pint of freshly-picked, locally grown blackberries. You can purchase fresh blackberries from a farmer's market, pick them by hand from a pick-your-own farm, or even find them in certain grocery stores. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Purchase your blackberries during the summer. This is when blackberries are in season and will be at their freshest.

2. Find out whether there is a pick-your-own farm near you that includes blackberries. This option will get you the freshest berries, as they will literally go directly from the bush to your car. Consult the Indiana Local Food Guide, available on the Indianapolis Food, Farm and Family Council website (indyfoodfarmfamily.org), or PickYourOwn.org. Both include directories of pick-your-own farms in Indiana. Call ahead to find out whether the farm near you has blackberries.

3. Visit a nearby farmer's market. Although these blackberries will not be quite as fresh as berries you pick yourself, they will be fresher than imported berries. A variety of websites list Indiana farmer's markets by location, including the Indianapolis Food, Farm and Family Council (indyfoodfarmfamily.org) and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (in.gov/isda). If you are not certain whether the farmer's market includes blackberries, call ahead.

4. Visit or call your grocery store to see if they sell locally grown blackberries. Some independent grocery stores, and even certain national chains, sell locally grown produce alongside their imported foods. Locally grown blackberries will be fresher than imported blackberries because it took less time to transport them to the store. Yet they may not be as fresh as blackberries from a farmer's market or a pick-your-own farm.

Tags: farmer market, blackberries from, grown blackberries, locally grown, pick-your-own farm, blackberries from farmer