Feb. 11, 2008
15 Tornado Safety Tips

Posted in News and Issues

Browse the article 15 Tornado Safety Tips

by the editors of Publications International, Ltd.

 ( From How Stuff Works )

15 Tornado Safety Tips

Funnel clouds have been observed on every continent except Antarctica. The United States has significantly more than the rest of the world because of low-lying geography and a climate that breeds strong thunderstorms. With wind speeds up to 320 miles per hour, tornadoes kill about 60 people every year in the United States when uprooted trees and debris turn into deadly missiles. Check out our list of tornado safety tips to get prepared!

1. Determine the best locations for shelter at home and work.


The safest location is always a basement, below the deadly wind and projectile objects. If you can't go underground, find a small interior room or hallway on the lowest level of the building.

2. Conduct tornado safety drills with your family.


Make learning quick and fun, and children will remember the basics of what to do, especially if you go through the motions several times. Just as most kids know what to do if their clothes are on fire, the same drill could be applied for tornado safety -- instead of "Stop, drop, and roll" try "Run, duck, and cover!"

A tornado warning means one has been spotted.


3. Prepare an emergency supply kit.

Experts recommend that each person (and pet) has supplies for at least three days, including bottled water (two quarts per person, per day), nonperishable food, and a first-aid kit that includes prescription items as well as aspirin and antacids. Make sure you have tools such as a can opener, utility knife, wrench (for turning power valves), whistle, battery-powered radio, several flashlights, and batteries. Each person will need blankets, clothing, rain gear, and heavy-soled shoes or boots. Lastly, stash away some cash and a copy of credit cards, passports, social security cards, phone numbers, and insurance information. Once a year, check your supplies and determine if family needs have changed.

4. Make an inventory of your possessions.

For insurance purposes, videotape or photograph everything you would need to replace in case you lose it all. When you're sure that you've included everything, keep the inventory somewhere away from the premises, such as a safe-deposit box.

5. Know how your community sends its warnings.


If it's a siren, stay inside and take cover. Know where the designated shelters are in the buildings where you and your family spend time.

6. Know the difference between a "watch" and a "warning."


There's a big difference in the danger level between the two terms used during stormy weather. A watch simply means that conditions are favorable for a tornado to develop. Be alert, but you don't need to take shelter. If there's a warning, a tornado has been spotted. When a warning is posted for your area, take shelter immediately.

 

As part of the tornado safety drill, print out this list and review it with all members of your household.

7. Stay away from windows.

At 320 miles per hour, shards of glass can be deadly. You can eliminate this risk if you make sure your shelter area is free of windows. If this isn't possible, protect yourself with a heavy blanket.

8. Don't bother opening windows.

It's true that air pressure equalizes when there's an opening in the building, but the
American Red Cross says that it's far more important to get to safety than to open windows. If there's flying debris, the windows will most likely break on their own!

9. Get in position.

Once you're in your shelter, find a sturdy piece of furniture, such as a workbench or table, and stay under it. Curl into a ball on the floor, and lock your hands behind your head to protect it from flying debris. If you can't find a table to get under, crouch under a door frame because the beams will offer some protection.

10. Mobile home residents need to take extra precautions.

If you live in a mobile home, never try to ride out a severe thunderstorm at home; go to a prearranged shelter. As a last resort, go outside and lie flat on the ground using your hands and arms to protect your head. It might be hard to believe that you're safer outside, but since your mobile home isn't built into the ground, it can be picked up and turned into an airborne missile.

11. What if you're in a public building?

The first choice is always a basement or lower level. If that isn't an option, avoid wide-open spaces such as cafeterias or auditoriums -- there's just not enough physical support for you there. Look for an inside hallway, or a small closet or bathroom (with no windows).

12. What if you're in a vehicle?

Never try to outrun a tornado. Get out of your vehicle and try to get inside a building. If there isn't time, lie down flat in a ditch or any low-lying area away from the vehicle. (Hiding below an underpass isn't safe because you're still exposed to flying debris.) Use your hands and arms to protect your head.

13. What if you're outdoors?

Finding a building is your best bet, but if there's no time, follow the same instructions as above.

14. What to do when the storm has passed.

Treat injuries with your first-aid kit, but don't attempt to move anyone who is severely injured. Use the phone only for emergencies, such as calling for an ambulance. Then, listen to the radio for emergency information. If the building you are in is damaged, beware of broken glass and downed power lines as you evacuate. Check on neighbors who might need assistance, but otherwise stay out of the way so that emergency crews can do their work.

15. Beware of fire hazards.

Never strike a match until you're sure you haven't had a gas leak. Anything that holds gas can rupture and be vulnerable to explosions if you see (or smell) leakage after a storm. If you think there might be a gas leak, open all doors and get out of the house. Also watch out for severed electrical wires, which can spark debris piles. Check appliances to see if they are emitting smoke or sparks.

 

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Helen Davies, Marjorie Dorfman, Mary Fons, Deborah Hawkins, Martin Hintz, Linnea Lundgren, David Priess, Julia Clark Robinson, Paul Seaburn, Heidi Stevens, and Steve Theunissen

Hope this will be helpful to someone. Living in "Tornado Alley" here in Texas this is a very serious concern.

Grandma Rosie

 




Jan. 26, 2008
Work-At-Home Opportunities with The Old Schoolhouse Magazine!

Posted in News and Issues

Greetings from the Publishers of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine!

With Spring upon us, we find ourselves in need of a few good independent contractors to join our team here at TOS.  

Spring is that time when homeschoolers start coming out of the woodwork. Homeschool conventions come alive, vendors begin making plans, and parents excitedly begin their quests for quality products and resources for the upcoming school year. Parents, homeschool leaders, and companies/vendors have come to count on The Old Schoolhouse to help in these endeavors.  And we are always up to the challenge!  Quality is what everyone is after - and that's where you come in.

We need a few good additions to our staff. Here's something to keep in mind: while we love working with homeschool moms and dads (and we will consider inquiries from such), we *really* are looking for older folks to come on board with TOS. If you, or someone you know, are a parent or grandparent of homeschooled children who have graduated, you have the time to put in, and are skilled, YOU in particular are who we are looking for. Of course, we will also consider inquiries from anyone.
 
Would you like to work for Alpha Omega Publications instead?  They are looking for a few good work-at-home editors. Our contact at AOP is very interested in bringing on one or more persons for a current project. Think you are up to the challenge? Alpha Omega expects high quality, just as we do here at TOS. They've asked us for some referrals for editors who can work from home. If you are interested, email us with these exact items:
 
1. Subject line must say "Alpha Omega Work At Home".
2. In the email, provide a brief summary of who you are and please detail your qualifications
   (attach resume if desired).
3. Include a writing piece if you'd like (short).
 
If you'd like to be considered for doing some simple editing on a project basis for TOS, do the same thing, only instead of the subject line saying, "Alpha Omega Work At Home," have it read, "TOS Editing". Feel free to send one of each, if you are interested in working for both of us.
 
General Editor - This position is opening up at TOS Magazine. This is the main editor; the one responsible for keeping our themes and calendar, slating authors, issuing and collecting writer contracts (lots of filing), and doing a PRISTINE job editing our magazine. The General Editor must be extremely friendly (not high strung), highly organized, and have a working knowledge of homeschooling in general. Will work closely with Gena Suarez and Deborah Wuehler (Senior Editor) on a daily basis. Must have a college degree or equivalent. Email us with "General Editor" in the subject line. Include a resume, other qualifications, and a detailed summary of qualifications. What can you bring TOS as its General Editor?
 
Interviewers/Reporters - We need more interviewers and reporters who can dig up stories about homeschooling's growth and successes. Approved candidates will be expected to pitch (and sometimes write) stories, but also will be assigned interviews. This position pays by the piece. Put "Reporter" in the subject line and include a summary of qualifications. Feel free to attach a writing sample.
 
Public Relations - Can you write a good press release? Can you write ad copy that attacts attention? What about representing TOS on the radio? Attach a sample press release you've written, as well as fictional (phony) ad copy for TOS Magazine. Subject line should say: Public Relations.
 
Researcher - Must have working knowledge of Excel databases. Must be skilled at online searches and not afraid to phone organizations for information. Put "Research" in the subject line of the email. Include a summary of experience.
 
TOS e-Book Project Manager - We have three successfully selling ebooks. We need seven more for 2008. Candidate must be an excellent researcher and have the ability to work with others. Team player mandatory. Excellent writing and design skills. Send a sample of previously made ebook(s) and resume. Subject line: e-Book Manager.
 
Sales opportunities - Do you like forming new business relationships? Our top advertising sales reps make a very good income working full-time for TOS Magazine. Email us with "Sales" in the subject line, and we'll get you set up to talk with a manager. Attach a resume if you'd like. Be prepared to put in several hours per week in order for this position to work for you. Sales is commission-based only.
 
Conference Booth Reps - Put this in the subject line when you email. Candidates must be very outgoing and able to commit to representing the TOS booth in their state. Only professionals please apply. Must be outgoing enough to agressively sell from the booth (drawing people in from the aisles). Strong math skills, organized, and smiley.
 
Renewals - Care to talk with other TOS subscribers on the phone? Our Winter issue just hit the streets, and with it came over 8,000 families we need to renew - their subscriptions just ended. This is a telemarketing position; email us with "Renewals" in the subject line if interested.
 
Layout and Design - Put this in the subject line when you email us about your  qualifications in layout. What programs do you use/possess? We are looking for professional layout people to put our magazine together every quarter. Must have an eye for art and a professional working attitude along with an ability to follow instructions. Must work well with others and be patient with editors. Pays very well.
 
Marketing Helpers - Again, put this title in the subject line along with a written summary of your qualifications. How can you help grow TOS Magazine's subscribership? Please tell us how you think you can (part-time) assist our current marketing team. Attach a resume if you'd like, but certainly include a few paragraphs on why we should consider adding you to our team. The ability to analyze information, including surveys, is an important qualification. Can you take survey results and turn them into strongly written marketing pieces? We need you.
 
Secretarial Services - Use this title in the subject line when yourespond. Let's face it - TOS is growing, and our managers and directors are needing office support. Borders Bookstores nationwide is putting together a new homeschool section, and TOS will be the ONLY magazine on a special shelving unit in that whole section. Not only that, we're launching a digital magazine to go along with the print. Beyond even that, we're hitting the road this season with TOS booths at various conventions nationwide. We need help keeping us organized (Gena especially!).
 
Photography - Have you noticed our covers? They're schoolhouses! We pay for good schoolhouse shots, and we reference the photographer right in the front pages of the magazine. Put "Photography" in the subject line when you approach us about your services.
 
Schoolhouse Store Helper - Our store manager needs help. Take a look at the store. Can you help us organize it? Can you support our manager? Tell us what you can do to assist TOS in this very part-time role. Please put "Schoolhouse Store" in the subject line.
 
State Coordinator - This is the one position that does not pay - it's voluntary. We need leaders to represent TOS at the largest homeschool website on the Internet. If you have a working knowledge about homeschooling in your state and are willing to encourage new parents considering homeschooling, please contact us. Please put "State Leader" In the subject line.
 

All of the above positions are for independent contractors providing services from their home. If your business can help ours, get a hold of us - fast!  If you are not familiar with us, you might consider subscribing to our magazine.  If you are providing services within the homeschool market, you need your trade magazine - The Old Schoolhouse (and it's a tax write off if you are purchasing it for your business reference library).
 
Important to note before contacting us about any of the above positions!

The fastest way to lose a contract position with TOS is by proving to be slow at returning emails. TOS is a fast growing company which has primarily been operated via email alone. We are not brick and mortar. We depend on our contractors to stay very visible by phone and/or email. Our current staffers are extremely fast with communications. We do not renew independent contractors who don't respond to emails on a daily basis. Slow responders need not apply.  :)
 
Perhaps you have a special skill not listed above. We want to hear it. In the subject line, put "Special Skill".  We'll consider you.
 
Thank you for your attention to this request for added contractors over at The Old Schoolhouse Magazine. If you know someone who should read this, by all means, forward it - especially to older skilled people (grandparents!) who have the time to devote to our magazine and to growing homeschooling worldwide. Hitting reply to this email will place your communication in the correct box. In order to be considered, just be sure to label the subject line according to the instructions above.

Thank you,
 
The Old Schoolhouse
Publishers

 




Jan. 21, 2008
Save 50% on Your Favorite "The Old Schoolhouse Magazine" Products!

Posted in News and Issues

Save 50% on Your Favorite The Old Schoolhouse Magazine Products!

At The Old Schoolhouse we know that there is more than one right way to homeschool. We believe that each family has to figure out what method and educational philosophy "fits" their family best. Some parents may be juggling work responsibilities and homeschooling. Others are homeschooling as single parents. Some have special needs children, while others are still learning the basics of home education. In all of our products, we strive to present a variety of authors and resources which will inspire and encourage you as you tailor your homeschool to your family's needs.

And now for seven days only, we're putting all of our TOS e-Books and audio books on sale for 50% off.  Plus our back issues normally priced at $9.90 are 50% off too.

If you've never bought an e-Book before, now is a great time to try one!

Each one is under $7 and you'll be able to download them immediately after checkout.

Secrets of Successful Homeschooling covers everything from the questions you should ask to help you determine your philosophy of education to how to make your homeschool more fun and a natural part of your day-to-day life.


Have you crossed the line into high school? Homeschooling the High Schooler: from Transcripts to Graduation has suggestions for reaching your child's heart, teaching the higher level subjects, converting extracurricular activities into credit courses, and much more.

Want to read some of the all time favorite TOS interviews with pioneers and leaders in the home education movement? You'll find these interviews and many more in Homeschool Dialogues.

Would you rather listen to these as audio books? It's a wonderful way to be encouraged as you're driving in the car, working or relaxing around the house. Each is under $9 and at these prices you can buy one for a friend who needs some encouragement too!

Do you struggle with trying to find the balance between academics and home life? Does relaxed homeschooling sound good to you, but you wonder if it's really as thorough as public school?  Gena Suarez's Well Integrated Homeschool audio presentation reveals the problems with public education and the blessings of a natural integration of learning at home.

We're sure you'll enjoy each of these resources and all of the great information in our back issues of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine. Don't forget them!

Our regularly priced $9.90 back issues are all less than $5 for this sale - and the shipping is free. We'll send them right out to you. You'll find words of encouragement from your favorite writers, unit studies, information on the various teaching styles, plenty of homeschool research, and so much more.

Just take a look at the FANTASTIC prices on e-Books, audio books, and back issues and bring some fresh inspiration into your homeschool this year!
Sale Ends midnight Sunday, January 27. International customers please note, due to high international shipping costs, audio books are only available for US customers and back issues require a shipping upgrade 

 




Jan. 8, 2008
Advertising Sales Rep for TOS wanted!

Posted in News and Issues

 

 

Help Wanted at The Old Schoolhouse

Independent Contractor needed to work from home selling print and web advertising by telephone using an established set of Company leads. The right person will earn commission on everything they sell. Responsibilities include contacting companies and establishing advertising campaigns as well as maintaining existing client advertising arrangements.

This candidate must:

  • Excel in an independent work environment with limited supervision.
  • Own (and provide, for work purposes) an Internet-ready computer running Windows XP or equivalent, MS office and Excel, along with a functioning on-site printer and FAX machine.
  • Possess a professional demeanor, excellent communication and sales skills and a high level of proficiency in MS Office, Excel and e-mail applications.
  • Provide telephone service with an unlimited nationwide calling plan (cellular or land line ok)
  • Have the ability to dedicate significant periods of uninterrupted time to work related activities.
  • Learn quickly and follow instructions

Previous professional sales or advertising experience preferred. This position pays commission only, no salary or hourly pay.

For contact information, please visit this page.  

Kris Price
Senior Editor, HomesteadBlogger.com
www.homesteadblogger.com/hsbfrontporch
www.homesteadblogger.com/athomewithkris

 




Dec. 28, 2007
Thanks for the gracious welcome! And can you help?

Posted in News and Issues

I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who has welcomed me to HomesteadBlogger either here on on my personal blog. I know that I have some BIG shoes to fill in Nancy's departure. I don't mean that she has big feet either ... I've met Nancy in person and she is not tall, but she is a friendly, funny and remarkable person. I know that we will all miss her, but she will still be around blogging, I hope!

You may notice a bit of rearranging of this blog. I didn't remove anything, but I personally like a BIG (i.e. wide) blogging area and so I spent some time this morning making this a 2-column blog. I think it's easier to read. Please let me know if a color is not good for you or if the font is too small or anything else that will help make this blog easy to visit. This blog is for YOU!!

Now, I NEED YOU!  I am currently working on the Daily Features part of this blog (see sidebar). I have been in touch with several of the bloggers that have been posting here regularly and we are gearing up to get things rolling again next month. Some I still have not heard back from, but it is still the holiday season and I'm sure they are enjoying some downtime with their family and friends. Once I know who is going to continue to blog regularly, then I'll also know which topics need new contributors. I know for sure that the Quilting and Barnyard features need bloggers and I would like for YOU to consider contributing for a month at a time on these topics. So, if you quilt or if you raise/breed animals and would like to share your talent & experience with our community, please email me (link in sidebar) and let me know! Even your children can blog! I know there are some here who raise indoor animals (rabbits, cats, etc.) and it would be great for a family to blog together on these subjects.

If you are a NEW homesteader and would like to blog about your experience getting started, I'd love to hear from you! Our Homestead or Bust! category would be right up your alley! If several people email me about this, then all of you can share your experiences ... the good -and- the bad! I am not a homesteader with regards to the property that I live on, but I love being at home and taking care of my family. I'll be embarking on some new adventures this year and will share those in my weekly post, "At Home with Kris" on Fridays.

I hope to have some fun contests (and prizes!) in the coming months as well. I'd like to get back to sharing a Featured Blogger and am going to be looking into that. I am very excited about this new "job." I truly love the community here and believe that all of us have something to offer to our fellow homestead bloggers! I look forward to getting to know you all better!




Nov. 14, 2007
Homeschool Blog Awards 2007

Posted in News and Issues

Well, the Homeschool Blog Awards for 2007 are here.  This is such a fun and wonderful way to find more helpful blogs that I truly can't pass up participating.  Until Nov. 17th you can nominate a blog for any category.  A complete list of rules can be found here, which includes the nomination form.  For simplicity, you can make your nominations on this page as well. 

Even if you aren't interested in seeing other blogs that people like, you simply must nominate the ones you do, so that others can enjoy them as well.  Remember these are the Homeschool Blog Awards, and as such each nominee must be homeschooling a student in grades grades PK-12 for at least part of 2007. 

So hop on over to Homeschool Blog Awards and get your nominations entered!  Later today I will posting my final list of nominations on the Journey to Simplicity.  I know you have a few blogs you love for one reason or another.  Some may pertain to a thrifty life, some may pertain to homeschool info, others to current events, etc.  We all turn to certain blogs for specific info, so why not nominate your favorites! 

These are my thoughts.

Leslie Valeska

~Contributing Writer~

Raise the Cup!

Journey to Simplicity




Oct. 4, 2007
The Future of Raw Milk in Georgia

Posted in News and Issues

The Georgia Department of Agriculture is considering a drastic measure to discourage consumers from, well, "consuming" raw milk.

What's that extreme measure?

Regulating the requirement to dye raw milk charcoal gray..........Read the latest here.

Regardless of what the Georgia Agriculture Commissioner is quoted as saying, sounds like politics with corporate agriculture as usual!

HT:  Georgia Organics "eDirt - October 2007"

 

Waving from the Deep South!

~ Harriette Jacobs

 




Sep. 17, 2007
Action Alert for Texas Dairy Cow Owners

Posted in News and Issues

ACTION ALERT: Public hearing on proposed regulation to tag dairy cows

 Earlier this summer, the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC)
proposed
 a new regulation that would require all dairy cattle being
transported
 within Texas to be identified with an "official identification device
or
 identification device approved by the Commission."  The Farm and
Ranch
 Freedom Alliance and Liberty Ark sent out action alerts urging
everyone
to submit comments on the proposed regulation. Thank you to those who
sent comments to the agency!

 The TAHC has released the agenda for its next meeting, and the
Commission will be considering adoption of the proposed regulation.
This
is the last chance for people to have input on the proposed
regulation!

WHERE: TAHC's main office, 2105 Kramer Lane, Austin, Texas.
 WHEN: Tuesday, September 18th, 2007. The meeting begins at 8:30 a.m.
We
 don't know what time they'll get to the proposed regulation, although
it
 will probably be mid-morning.

 WHAT: Opportunity for public comment on proposed regulation.

 We urged everyone to submit written comments on the proposed
regulation
 because we all have to stand together on this issue, regardless of
what
 type of animal we own. For purposes of the Commission meeting,
though,
 it is especially important that people who have dairy cattle come to
the
meeting. The Commissioners will pay the most attention to what diary
owners have to say, since they are the ones who are directly
affected.
So if you own a dairy cow, plan to come to the meeting next Tuesday!
Don't own a dairy cow?  Make sure any dairy farmers in your area know about the proposed regulation and the meeting, so that they can come!

 Some background on the proposed regulation is below. You can read the
proposed tagging regulation, as well as other proposed regulations,
at

http://www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg/archive/June82007/PROPOSED/4.AGRICULTURE.html.
BACKGROUND/ TALKING POINTS

The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) has proposed a new
regulation,
 4 TAC section 43(n), which provides that all dairy cattle being
 transported within Texas shall be identified with an "official
 identification device or identification device approved by the
 Commission." The stated reason for the requirement is based on the
risk
 of tuberculosis (TB) exposure from untested dairy cattle.

 The proposed regulation is unnecessary. According to TAHC, the risk
of
 tuberculosis infection is coming from out of state - so the agency
 should be focused on entry requirements and testing out of state
cattle
 coming in to Texas, not burdening in-state producers.

 The proposed regulation also opens the door for the agency to require
 RFID tagging and NAIS premises registration requirements for dairy
 cattle. The proposed regulation limits the identification to a
"device,"
 which may or may not include traditional forms of identification such
as
 tattoos and brands. We've already seen a similar approach in
Michigan.
 The Michigan Department of Agriculture made a "policy decision" that
the
 only form of acceptable identification under its tuberculosis program
 was NAIS-compliant RFID tags, complete with premises registration!

 The proposed Texas regulation by itself won't force dairy cattle
owners
 to register and use electronic tags. But it would be very easy for
the
 agency to take that next step whenever it chooses to, with no
additional
 regulations or notice.

 The Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance submitted comments that explain
the
 issue in more detail. You can read the comments at

http://farmandranchfreedom.org/content/files/7.18.07%20Comments%20on%20proposed%20TB%20regs.pdf

 The proposed regulation can be found at

http://www.sos.state.tx.us/texreg/archive/June82007/PROPOSED/4.AGRICULTURE.html#13.
 And you can read the TAHC's meeting minutes at
http://www.tahc.state.tx.us/news/meetings/Synopsis_CommMtg_May2007.pdf.
The discussion of the proposed TB regulation starts on page 3.

 As always, if you have any questions, contact FARFA at
 info@farmandranchfreedom.org

 

I received this from the dairy owner that we buy raw milk from.  NOT something they want to have to deal with.

Blessings,

Catherine




Sep. 6, 2007
Earn Money With Your Blog - Button Alert!

Posted in News and Issues



Do you have a button inviting people to subscribe to TOS and receive 19 free gifts on your blog? Well it's time to change it!

TOS has an even better offer now - Buy a one-year subscription for $25 and receive 25 free gifts! And we have some pretty new banners and buttons that you all can use. Just pick which fits your blog the best! Need help getting a button on your blog? Read this entry.

Now, you want to know how you can earn money with your blog?

It's quick and easy and if someone clicks through your banner to buy a subscription, you earn a percentage of the sale! You can even earn money on other items they buy through the Schoolhouse Store. It's really a great deal.

Blessings,
~Nancy Carter
HomesteadBlogger Senior Editor





Aug. 30, 2007
Mars Petcare Recalls Dry Dog Food

Posted in News and Issues

This isn't a huge recall, but I did want to pass along the info. I know we all want to keep our dogs healthy! ~Nancy

FDA News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 25, 2007

Media Inquiries:
Michael Herndon, 301-827-6242
Consumer Inquiries:
888-INFO-FDA


Mars Petcare US, Inc. Recalls Dry Dog Food

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is alerting consumers that Mars Petcare US, Inc. has recalled two dry dog food products because of the potential contamination with Salmonella Schwarzengrund.

The Mars Petcare US, based in Franklin, Tenn. is voluntarily recalling five-pound bags of Krasdale Gravy dry dog food sold in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, and 50-pound bags of Red Flannel Large Breed Adult Formula dry food sold in Pennsylvania.

The FDA conducted tests on 10 samples, representing seven product brands from the company. Each sample (same size and brand of product) consisted of 15 subsamples, for a total of 150 subsamples. Tests of the 150 subsamples revealed two positive samples; one from the Krasdale Gravy dry food and another from Red Flannel Large Breed Adult Formula dry food.

Salmonella can potentially be transferred to people handling pet food, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the product or any surfaces exposed to the product. To date, there have been 64 cases of illness in humans related to Salmonella Schwarzengrund reported to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); however, none of the reported cases have been directly linked to the recalled product that was tested. The FDA is working with local and state officials, and with officials at the CDC in the investigation.

Here is identification information on the recalled products:

Product: Krasdale Gravy dry dog food
Size: Five-pound bag
UPC Code: 7513062596
Best By Date: July 16, 2008 & July 17, 2008
Best By Date Location: Back of bag
Distribution: Stores in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania

Product: Red Flannel Large Breed Adult Formula dry dog food
Size: 50-pound bag
UPC Code: 4286900062
Best By Date: July 12, 2008
Best By Date Location: Back of bag
Distribution: Stores in Reedsland and Richlandtown, Pa.

Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Well animals can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

Consumers with questions about the recalled product should call Mars Petcare US, Inc. at 866-298-8332.

For more information:
Safe Handling Tips for Pet Foods and Treats

Mars Petcare Pet Food Recall Questions and Answers

Firm Release on Select Red Flannel Large Breed Adult Formula Dry Dog Food (Aug. 21)

Firm Release on Select Krasdale Gravy Dry Dog Food (Aug. 21)

Pennsylvania Department of Health Press Release (Aug. 10)





Aug. 4, 2007
Pay attention to your canned goods...

Posted in News and Issues


And you might want to go ahead and plow up a spot in your yard to start growing a few things! Geesh. The recall on Castleberry's items just keeps growing. And it's not just items with the Castleberry label, look for these other brands/items.

Brand

Product

Can Size

Austex

Beef Stew

15oz

Austex

Chili no Beans

15oz

Austex

Chili no Beans

19oz

Austex

Chili with Beans

15oz

Austex

Chili with Beans

19oz

Austex

Hot Dog Chili Sauce

10oz

Austex

Onion Hot Dog Chili Sauce

10oz

Best Yet

Chili with Beans

15oz

Best Yet

Corned Beef Hash

15oz

Big Y

Chili no Beans

15oz

Big Y

Chili with Beans

15oz

Big Y

Corned Beef Hash

15oz

Black Rock

Chili with Beans

15oz

Bloom

Hot Dog Chili Sauce

10oz

Bryan

Chili no Beans

15oz

Bryan

Chili no Beans

10oz

Bryan

Chili with Beans

15oz

Bryan

Corned Beef Hash

15oz

Bryan

Hot Dog Chili Sauce with Beef

10oz

Bunker Hill

Chili no Beans

10oz

Bunker Hill

Hot Dog Chili Sauce

10oz

Bunker Hill

Spicier Chili no Beans

10oz

Castleberry's

Barbecue Beef

10oz

Castleberry's

Barbecue Pork in Barbecue Sauce

10oz

Castleberry's

Barbecue Pork in Barbecue Sauce

14.5oz

Castleberry's

Beef Stew

15oz

Castleberry's

Brunswick Beef Stew Chicken & Beef

15oz

Castleberry's

Chili no Beans

10oz

Castleberry's

Chili no Beans

15oz

Castleberry's

Chili with Beans

15oz

Castleberry's

Corned Beef Hash

15oz

Castleberry's

Creamed Chip Beef Gravy

10oz

Castleberry's

Georgia Hash

15oz

Castleberry's

Hot Chili with Beans

15oz

Castleberry's

Hot Dog Chili Sauce

10oz

Castleberry's

Onion Hot Dog Chili Sauce

10oz

Castleberry's

Sausage Gravy

10oz

Cattle Drive

Beef Stew (Steak)

15oz

Cattle Drive

Chicken Chili with Beans

15oz

Cattle Drive

Chili no Beans

15oz

Cattle Drive

Chili with Beans

15oz

Firefighters

Chicken Chili with Beans

15oz

Firefighters

Chili no Beans

15oz

Firefighters

Chili with Beans

15oz

Food Club

Chili no Beans

15oz

Food Club

Chili with Beans

15oz

Food Club

Corned Beef Hash

15oz

Food Lion

Hot Dog Chili Sauce

10oz

Goldstar

Chili

15oz

Goldstar

Original Chili

10oz

Goldstar

Tex-Mex Chili with Beans

15oz

Great Value (Canada Only)

Chili with Beans

15oz

Great Value (Canada Only)

Hot Chili with Beans

15oz

Kroger

Beef Stew

15oz

Kroger

Chili no Beans

15oz

Kroger

Chili with Beans

15oz

Kroger

Hot Dog Chili Sauce

10oz

Lowes Foods

Chili no Beans

15oz

Lowes Foods

Chili with Beans

15oz

Lowes Foods

Corned Beef Hash

15oz

Meijer

Chili no Beans

15oz

Meijer

Chili with Beans

15oz

Meijer

Corned Beef Hash

15oz

Meijer

Hot Dog Chili Sauce

10oz

Morton House

Chili with Beans (Beef & Chicken)

15oz

Morton House

Corned Beef Hash

15oz

Paramount

Chili Hot Dog Chili

15oz

Paramount

Chili no Beans

15oz

Paramount

Chili with Beans

15oz

Paramount

Hot Dog Chili Sauce

10oz

Piggly Wiggly

Chili no Beans

10oz

Piggly Wiggly

Chili no Beans

15oz

Piggly Wiggly

Chili with Beans

15oz

Piggly Wiggly

Corned Beef Hash

15oz

Prudence

Corned Beef Hash

15oz

Southern Home

Chili no Beans

15oz

Southern Home

Chili no Beans

10oz

Southern Home

Chili with Beans

15oz

Southern Home

Corned Beef Hash

15oz

Steak 'n Shake

Chili with Beans

10oz

Thrifty Maid

Chili with Beans

15oz

Thrifty Maid

Corned Beef Hash

15oz

Thrifty Maid

Hot Dog Chili Sauce

10oz

Triple Bar Ranch

Chili no Beans

15oz

Triple Bar Ranch

Chili with Beans

15oz

Triple Bar Ranch

Chili with Beans Slow Cooked

15oz

Value Time

Beef and Chicken Chili with Beans

15oz

Pet Food Products

Natural Balance

Eatables for Dogs Chinese Take Out with Sauce with Vegetables and Chicken

15oz

Natural Balance

Eatables for Dogs HOBO Chili with Chicken and Pasta

15oz

Natural Balance

Eatables for Dogs Irish Stew with Beef, Potatoes and Carrots

15oz

Natural Balance

Eatables for Dogs Southern Style Dumplings with Chicken and Vegetables

15oz


And in other news, you might want to check out the labels on any of your French Cut Green Beans in your pantry too. Because they ummm... might cause BOTULISM!!!

The canned green beans may cause botulism if consumed. FDA is providing this warning to make consumers aware of the possible risk of serious illness from eating these products. As of August 1, 2007, FDA had not received reports of illnesses related to the product.

The botulism toxin is very potent, and botulism is a life-threatening illness. Symptoms of botulism can begin from six hours to two weeks after eating food that contains the toxin. The symptoms may include double vision, blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, and muscle weakness that moves progressively down the body, affecting the shoulders first then descending to the upper arms, lower arms, thighs, and calves. Botulism also may cause paralysis of the breathing muscles, which can result in death unless assistance with breathing (mechanical ventilation) is provided. Individuals who show these symptoms and who may have recently eaten the product should seek immediate medical attention.

The affected Lakeside cut green beans are sold nationwide under the following labels: Albertson's, Happy Harvest, Best Choice, Food Club, Bogopa, Valu Time, Hill Country Fare, HEB, Laura Lynn, Kroger, No Name, North Pride, Shop N Save, Shoppers Valu, Schnucks, Cub Foods, Dierbergs, Flavorite, IGA, Best Choice and Thrifty Maid. The specific codes (top line of can code) involved are: EAA5247, EAA5257, EAA5267, EAA5277, EAB5247, EAB5257, ECA5207, ECA5217, ECA5227, ECA5297, ECB5207, ECB5217, ECB5227, ECB5307.

Consumers who have any of these products or any foods made with these products should dispose of them immediately. If the code on an affected can is missing or unreadable, consumers should throw the product out.

Thanks Amy for sending me these very informative links!

Blessings,
~Nancy




Jun. 26, 2007
Another Update on the KSMilkmaid

Posted in News and Issues



I just saw this update over at TNFarmGirl.

There will be a hearing this Wednesday (TOMORROW!) at 2:30 Kansas time…please uplift her family during this time.  She and at least one of her children will most likely be speaking and she desires her words to flow from the Father to the courtroom - and that Jesus be glorified.  I would imagine that this would be a time that the enemy would strike with fear and an attempt to intimidate…let us be praying for strength and peace as she faces the  people in the courtroom and especially for her children.  Remember to pray for protection, wisdom and guidance for them both.

2 Timothy 1:7
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.


Someone had written after the last update asking about the whole KSMilkmaid story. And to be honest, I just don't really feel comfortable trying to retell it. Christina does such a wonderful way of glorifying God in telling about what they are going through, but she has been asked to take down her blog while this is going through the court process so I can't even direct you there to read her story.


Blessings,
Nancy Carter
HomesteadBlogger Senior Editor
www.HomesteadBlogger.com/UnlikelyHomesteader







Page 1 of 6
Last Page | Next Page


About the Front Porch

Join us on the Front Porch to talk about anything and everything that has to do with homesteading! Catch up on the latest news at HomesteadBlogger. Chat with our Front Porch Team as they blog about their favorite topics. The Front Porch is the heart of our community. Make yourself right at home!

Front Porch Team

Chas, Senior Editor
Amy
Lisa Barthuly
Rose Denson
Kristina Duckett
Kristin Hoffman
Victoria LaFont
Catherine Love
Crystal Miller
Marilyn Moll
Leslie Valeska
Lisa Vitello


Front Porch Central

Email Chas
Tech Support
HomesteadBlogger News
Friends
Archives
RSS Feed


Recent Entries

Be Prepared for Storms...from Mother Earth News
Don't Throw Away Your Milk Jugs!
Hot weather and rabbits
Frugal Gardening
Featured Blogger~Kim and Jill at Manna Milling Moms
Attracting Winged Beauties Into Your Garden
How much energy is your fridge using?
*NEW* Schoolhouse Planner
Rabbit Poo!
Earthboxes
April Showers and May Flowers...
Featured Blogger~Lindsey~At Home on this Mountain
Helping Each Other Live More Frugal Lives
Breeding Rabbits
Garden Tip Time


Daily Features

Monday
Featured Blogger
Homestead Garden
Traditional Nutrition
Tuesday
Homestead Barnyard
Simple & Frugal Living
Going Green
Wednesday
General Homemaking
Putting Food By
Homestead or Bust!
Thursday
Homemade Clean
Quilting
Friday
At Home with Kris
Homestead Kitchen
Bread Baking 101


Tidbits & Topics

A Word Fitly Spoken
Featured Sponsors
Feeling Crafty?
Home Dairy
Homestead 101
Homestead News & Issues
HomesteadBlogger Contests
Healthy Eating & Living
Product Reviews
Time Saving Tips
Tip of the Day
Urban Homesteading


Favorite Resources




Always FREE shipping!

Time to 
Order Seeds!



Come Shop With Us


Links

Join the Carnival!
Join the Carnival

On the BookShelf

The Self Sufficient Life and How to Live It
The Encyclopedia of Country Living
Storey's Basic Country Skills
Country Wisdom and Know How
Barnyard in Your Backyard
Storey's Guide to Raising Beef Cattle
Storey's Guide to Raising Dairy Goats
Storey's Guide to Raising Sheep
Storey's Guide to Raising Pigs
Storey's Guide to Raising Rabbits
Chicken Tractor
Southern Herb Growing
Lasagna Gardening for Small Spaces
Square Foot Gardening
Carrots Love Tomatoes
How to Grow More Vegetables
Prescription for Nutritional Healing
Pay Dirt
Let It Rot!
The Rodale Book of Composting
Rodale's Successful Organic Gardening
The Vegetable Gardener's Bible
The Complete Tightwad Gazette


Homesteading

Solar Family Farm
Homestead.org
Homesteading Today
Simple Homesteading
Natural Family Home
Jason Unbound Homesteading Resources
TONS of Homesteading Links
Mother Earth News
DayCreek.com
Countryside Magazine
Homesteaders Links
Backwoods Home Magazine
Christian Homesteaders
New Harvest Homestead
Homeschool Country e-group
Christian Homestead Keepers e-group




Gread Reads!

Hobby Farms
Cottage Living Magazine
Eating Well Magazine
Delicious Living Magazine
The Rose Cottage Gazette
Mary Jane's Farm Magazine
Little Country Village
Simple Living Magazine
SimplyLiving.org
CountryLife.Net
Making It Home Magazine


Homemaking

Choosing Home
The Urban Homemaker
Practical Homemaking
Creative Homemaking
Early 19th Century America
Ladies Against Feminism
Old-Fashioned Homemaking
The Family Homestead
Laine's Letters
A Christian Home
A Christian Home - Homemaking
Christian Homemaking
A Woman's Place




Frugal Living

Frugal Families
The Dollar Stretcher
The Frugal Family Network
Frugal Living in the UK
Frugal Cottage Living
FrugalMom.net
The Frugal Life
FrugalVillage.com
Frugal Simplicity
Miserly Moms
All Things Frugal




Food & Recipes

Dining on a Dime
Betty Crocker
Creative Homemaking
Menus 4 Moms
Cooking Club of America
Seeds of Change
Dove's Farm Organic
Seabreeze Organic Farm Recipes
Organic Recipes
Cambria Organic Recipes
Green Cuisine Recipes
Organic Authority Recipes
Organic.org


Healthy Living

Mary Jane's Farm
Bob's Red Mill
Pleasant Hill Grain
The Urban Homemaker
Something Better Natural Foods
Stoneyfield Farm
Cascadian Farms
Horizon Organic Dairy
Brown Cow Farm
Arrowhead Mills
Nature's Path
Barbara's Bakery
Ian's Natural Foods
My Family Farm
College Farm Organic
Avalon Organics
Clearly Natural Personal Care
Bi-O-Kleen Cleaning Products

Cleaning Recipes:
Earth Notes
Organized Home
Nancy's Naturals
Natural Cleaning Recipes
Eco-Cycle
Green Cleaning Methods
Green Cleaning Recipes




Crafts

Lion Brand Yarn
Joann Fabrics
KnitPicks.com
KnittingHelp.com
Knitty.com
SockKnitters
Socks 101
KnittyGritty
The Idea Box




Friends


Dalyn
Yxpu
FaithfulAcres
patintenn
Amber
belovedlamb
quiverfull

quiverfullacres
Galatians69

countrydreamn
wannabeone
kayinpa
TheRusticCottage
vgauthier
KimMC
HandsNHearts
Wren
SimpleGuy

homesteadinthemaking
LindaI
Penny
ZooNana
bayleysmom17
jinyeah3

harriettejacobs
pointe510
farmgirlshelley
MicheleC11
southernbelle
twosisters
HeartAtHome
Nonni
ParingPenguin
MyThreeDaughters
AmyJoBellclapper
Brownsmichelle
desertoasis
MrsBurns
mamaof2andtwins
wife2elliot

savdn4gvn
Vickie
FruitfulVineof7SoFar
jesse

Kitty
clairebear
j706nancyr
countrygirl35
agodlyhomemaker
morningsunshine

Cindeerella
Pattisea
happymama
morganalilith
CandyFoote
shelley43022

melm
angiemomof3
Hisirishgem
HarvestMom
marys4littlelambs
jackiebridgen

cmhoger
• </