Excerpt from this story from Grist:

Last summer, most of the fields surrounding Joel VanderSchaaf’s Prairie farm were baked and brown, withered by one of the most severe droughts in recent memory. One stood out among the rest: A plot the Saskatchewan potato farmer had planted on a whim three years earlier with an experimental grain called Kernza, similar to the wheat used to make bread and beer.

“Our crop was pretty much the only green field around that wasn’t irrigated,” he recalled. “It (Kernza) is very efficient, very hardy … we were quite pleased with how it was growing.”

Kernza is a perennial, which means, like a lawn, it regrows and produces grain every year without having to be replanted. Its extensive root system allows it to draw water and nutrients from deep beneath the ground. Its roots sequester carbon in the soil and boost soil health, making it a regenerative agriculture dream crop. Those environmental benefits are what first drew VanderSchaaf to the unusual crop.

Tim Crews is the chief scientist at the Land Institute, the Kansas-based research center that created Kernza. The organization is devoted to breeding perennial crops like wheat, rice, legumes, and oilseeds without using genetic engineering. It is also developing farming techniques that mimic natural grasslands in an attempt to regenerate Prairie farmland.

Nearly five decades after it was founded in 1976, the Land Institute is confident its efforts, bolstered by success stories like Kernza, demonstrate the “scientific feasibility” of perennial crops. Over the next 40 years, the team plans on crafting new farming methods that recreate the Prairie grasslands natural ecological stability while producing yields similar to conventional crops.

Under Crews’ leadership, the organization is also helping researchers in other countries develop perennial crops suited to their local needs. After years in the shadows, perennial agriculture is starting to catch people’s eye.

Postcards from Snagglepuss

And you're asking how the Easter parade in Gatlinburg went

INSIDE CATTANOOGA KLATSCHE, GATLINBURG, TN: To answer such a question as many of you were probably asking ... With partly cloudy skies for the most part, the day turning out rather beautiful, many of the trees in the Smoky Mountains starting to go into bloom for the most part, and a few of the black bears starting to come forth from hibernation.

It may not have been the Pasadena Doo-Dah Parade, or even those on the likes of New York's Fifth Avenue or the Atlantic City Boardwalk (especially in earlier, more glamourous times), but the choice of route (as in the section of the Parkway between the split of US 411 and 441 and the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park--more or less Beautiful Downtown Gatlinburg, to paraphrase Gary Owens from back on Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In back in the day) pretty much attracted considerable curiosity from the Easter weekend crowd in the Queen Mother of Tourist Traps.

In keeping with Easter Parade tradition, it was more or less walkabout all along the Parkway, waving to the somewhat confused crowd wondering what the whole was about to begin with (though you had plenty of meet-and-greet and selfie opportunities among the characters). Naturally, the Cattanooga Cats "themselves" led the parade, real informal like, no welcoming banner ... but even then, Kitty Jo couldn't resist the selfie opportunities. Or even Scoots, for that matter; it seems Scoots, considering his modest stature, must have something of a liking, even if his storytelling wasn't fascinating enow.

And you could imagine the reaction of the crowd to the presence of yours truly, Huckleberry Hound and Crazy Claws strolling the Parkway ... or even Augie Doggie on the shoulders of his doting Doggie Daddy ... Top Cat and clowder, with Choo-Choo and Fancy-Fancy getting their share of fan attraction ... Peter Potamus and his diving enterouge, with plenty of the crowd rather surprised that Peter was an amazing diver in his own right ... Penelope Pitstop, kissing plenty of spectators ... those Banana Splits, quite the cutups (even Drooper going into the "Super Drooper" routine near the Gatlinburg Space Needle, to the bemusement of fans) ... Scooby-Doo and crew ... perennial crowd favourites, the Hair Bear Bunch ... Lori, Gator, Braveheart and Inch High, Private Eye ... Hong Kong Phooey, with a silly little tweaking of tai ch'i ... Captain Caveman and his cousins, the Slag Brothers, "going ape" and liking it ... you couldn't help but resist the Skatebirds going the inline-skating act ... even Kwicky Koala taking things a bit on the Aussie side by throwing Cherry Ripe and Freddo Frog bars to the crowd, as well as packets of Throaties (a popular Australian brand of throat drops), not to mention The Bungle Brothers doing Abbott and Costello justice with their "Who's on First?" routine with George in Bud Abbott's role and Joey doing Lou Costello's.

(Seems that for some reason, some in the crowd were rather surprised to discover what said Cherry Ripe bars were like, basically mashed cherries, dessicated coconut and dark chocolate. And for a lucky few, Kwicky "himself" passed out boxes of classic Australian snack crackers Jatz and Vita-Weat.)

After the parade ended, or some resemblance thereof, Kwicky Koala got out a box of another iconic Australian staple--Sanitarium Weet-Bix cereal, not quite Shredded Wheat but rather interesting by itself. Even if they turned out a little like glue in the end.

And the Cattanooga Cats dishing up typically Southern smoked ham for dinner, along with cheesy hash browns, green bean hot dish--and Kitty Jo's storied chess pie for dessert. Washed down with lemonade blended with hibiscus flower extract--what could get more interesting, to begin with?

And you can imagine how the crowd felt at the sight of the parade, otherwise not promoted well beforehand.

*************

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Data Files: The Local Flora

An external record of the varied plants found in the regions surrounding you. Logs will be updated when new plants are encountered.

Current entries: - Worm grass - Bubble seed - Cherrybomb - Flarebomb

Worm grass

Old food crops, run rogue after accumulating several dozen mutations. Once, they were a hyper-engineered strand of wheat, designed to persevere through extreme temperature fluctuations, heavy rains, freezing, drought, among other severe weather conditions. At some point down the line, however, possibly owing to the poor nutrient value of the soil they were growing in, they became carnivorous, actively seeking out nearby movement in hopes of edible creatures.

Each singular strand is one organism, but their roots stitch together into a complex web that enables nutrient sharing; if a small cluster of worm grass latches onto a creature, more will be attracted to drag it down, and the whole patch benefits from the sustenance. The grasses also differentiated into several distinct strains, with yellow worm grass being the most genetically similar to the original wheat strain. It is also the least aggressive, though its height and immense denseness make it dangerous to traverse still. Red worm grass and blue worm grass, in decreasing magnitude of height but increasing magnitude of aggressiveness, diverged from the main strain some indeterminate amount of time ago. Blue worm grass in particular is an aggressive colonizer of the areas around it, and will voraciously consume structures in search of more food. They all still, however, retain their original nutritional value, if they are neutralized by severing them from their roots.

Bubble seed

An old cultivar selected for the subtle beauty of its flowers. Colloquially referred to as bubble fruit for the unique feature of its seeds, these plants were occasionally planted by the people of old as a recreational activity. The flowers produced are small, bearing a delicate fragrance, and range from hues of light lavender to a deep violet. Most variants are biennial, but when seed production is incomplete or intentionally obstructed, the flowering cycle will lengthen, allowing for more enjoyment of the modest blooms.

The seeds have a double seed coat, from which their colloquial name is derived: when placed in water, the external seed coat draws water into its desiccated cells, causing the seed to swell to up to six times its original size. This process makes the seed more enticing to critters and protects the plant embryo as the seed is consumed. When not hydrated, the seed is extremely tough, and several cases of deliberate injury with bubble seeds have been reported. The swollen outer seed coat is surprisingly nutritious, though not as much as traditional food sources; it is a possible source of nutrients when food stores are running low.

Cherrybomb

An esoteric spice occasionally cultivated by your creators. The colloquial name of 'cherrybomb' came about from its appearance, which superficially resembles an extinct type of primal flora, and its mildly explosive quality. It was never popularly grown by the people of old for its beauty; its flowers, though large, are largely invariant without a notable fragrance, and also decay quickly. Rather, it was chosen for its ability to add heat to a dish, a quality that its perennial growing cycle compliments. A single seed pod yields upwards of twenty seeds, which can be roasted and then ground up to be used as a garnish in dishes. More adventurous chefs would cook the seeds whole, allowing their naturally pungent flavors to seep into the other ingredients.

Both the seeds and the seed coat produce a volatile chemical as a means of self defense and for propagation. At rest, the compound is inert and stable, but when enough energy is provided, whether by means of mechanical stimulation or the input of heat, it rapidly oxidizes in the presence of oxygen, expanding and releasing heat. This expansion causes the seed pods to pop open, emitting loud crackling in the process; the seeds are then propelled away from each other. Reportedly, this made cultivating cherrybombs difficult, contributing to their poor popularity.

The chemical secreted by the seeds and seed pods is mildly toxic, often causing symptoms of digestive distress such as diarrhea and intestinal cramping in low doses. It is neutralized by cooking the seeds, though care has to be taken to raise the temperature slowly so as not to set off their explosive nature. In high doses, regardless of whether the compound has been neutralized, it accelerates cell apoptosis due to chemical irritation, often leading to necrotic tissue accumulating where it was applied. Cultivation of cherrybombs was thus strictly regulated to prevent its use as a biological weapon, and there are various guidelines around safe consumption of its seeds.

Flarebomb

A plant in the same genus as cherrybombs. Its colloquial name takes after its more abundant sister, both because it was discovered after cherrybombs and because its applications are limited. This is exacerbated by its unusual growth requirements: flarebomb plants wilt in direct sunlight and prefer gentle shade. It also, unlike its sister, has an annual life cycle, so it was often only cultivated by the most avid of gardeners.

Its seed pods are much more studied than the rest of the plant. Similar to cherrybombs, the seed pods and seeds of flarebombs secrete a chemical that, when sufficient energy is provided, react to produce heat. However, the predominant compound produced by flarebombs is bioluminescent; the heat released is a byproduct of the oxidation of this compound. The light produced when the seed pods are shaken is variable over a range of deep purple to a light blue-green, but most commonly shines a vibrant blue. The seed pod itself is remarkably translucent, allowing the light produced from the seeds to pass through when gently shaken. Older children often enjoyed using the seed pods as a portable light source.

Notably, the reaction occurring in flarebombs is sparingly reversible, allowing a single seed pod to be used for an appreciable number of days, but eventually all of the compound is converted to its non-bioluminescent form. This is greatly accelerated by puncturing the seed pod and allowing oxygen to react directly with the seeds.

Parts of Nevada are being overrun by an explosion of flightless, ground-dwelling cannibalistic insects creating nightmares of Biblical proportions.

Business and residents said they are battling millions of Mormon crickets that descended on the state this week in an effort save land and morale. 

In Elko, a city in northeastern Nevada south of the Idaho border, crickets converged Monday, covering roads, vegetation, and even local hospital walls, multiple media outlets are reporting.

“Just to get patients into the hospital we had people out there with leaf blowers, with brooms, at one point we even had a tractor with a snowplow on it just to push the piles of crickets and move them on their way,” Steve Burrows, director of community relations at Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital, told local KSL TV.

Native to western North America, the crickets' populations are cyclic over many years and some residents in the mini-metropolis of just over 20,000 people, are not pleased with their return.

“They’re just gross,” Precious Drake of Elko, told the outlet. “They look like spiders, and they poop everywhere.”

What do Mormon Crickets eat?

According to the University of Nevada in Reno, Mormon crickets can grow larger than two inches and are found in rangelands west of the Missouri River and across all of Nevada. They eat perennials, grass, shrubs and crops, subsequently reducing feed for grazing wildlife and livestock.

Mormon crickets are also cannibalistic and, if their bellies are not full, will eat one another dead or alive.

The insects are not true crickets but are "shield-backed, short-winged katydids that resemble fat grasshoppers that cannot fly," according to the university. Adult Mormon crickets have long antennae and a shiny exoskeleton in a wide array of colors and patterns. 

In mass quantities, their feeding contributes to soil erosion, poor water quality, nutrient depleted soils and other land damage.

Mormon crickets prefer drought conditions and can cause "substantial economic losses to rangeland, cropland, and home gardens," according to the university. "This is particularly true as adults and nymphs of Mormon crickets migrate in a band, eating plants along their paths."

The Nevada Department of Agriculture did not immediately respond to USA TODAY Friday morning to say how many counties reported an infestation.

Buggers' name stems from Utah

Last June, farmers and government officials across Nevada northeast to Montana battled the insects as they destroyed crops.

The insect's name dates back to the 1800s, when the bugs ruined the fields of Mormon settlers in Utah. But amidst drought and warming temperatures – conditions favored by the insects – outbreaks across the West have worsened.

According to Utah State University, an infestation is when there are at least eight crickets per square yard of land.

Because Utah's spring has been cool and wet, only "a few small infestations" have been reported so far this year, according to Utah Public Radio.

'Greasy with the squashed entrails'

In 2017, Arlington, Oregon, saw its largest Mormon cricket outbreak since the 1940s. The roads were "greasy with the squashed entrails of the huge insects," which damaged nearby wheat crops, the Associated Press reported.

Skye Krebs, a local rancher there, called outbreak "truly biblical."

"On the highways, once you get them killed, then the rest of them come," Krebs said.

Farmers who experience infestation issues are encouraged to call the their state's respective Department of Agriculture.

Kooky proposal:

The largest crop by area of land in Europe is wheat, which produces 4 million calories per acres a year,

Before wheat was introduced ( convenient, grows quickly unlike trees), Europeans mainly ate and grew hazelnuts( in a sort of food forest type poly culture system alongside smaller plants of course ) , 15,000-6,000 years ago

Hazelnuts provide 5 million calories per acre

I would expect a modern Europe fed by Hazelnuts to be more environmentally friendly, in terms of using less land for food, less soil erosion/eutrophication ( annuals are horrible for this) , hazelnut orchards are a “ natural” environment by the holocene start date I usually default towards, one european species coexisted with for millennia,

Will this ever happen? No, is there a ton of other lower hanging fruit of improving plant based agriculture? Yes, are the flaws of plant based agriculture nothing next to the moral atrocity of livestock farming? Yes, I just think this is neat to think about

While we are at it, I am going to express my frustrations with The Land Institute, who are working to create high yielding perennial versions of common oil and grain crops, amazing and important work, but aren’t using genetic modification for it which of course makes the whole process slower:(,

APPARENTLY MY BLOG IS LIKE YOURS??? TUMBLR IN WHAT WORLD-

Anyways, flowery ask hehe.

For CY (because I can):

🍄🌾🍃🌵

And for Samson (because I MUST know more about him)

🌷☘️🍁🏵️

Oh lovely! A great deal of questions! I don't check ANY of these beforehand so I'm absolutely just gonna blindly go through these. 🍄 How likely is your OC to eat random berries/mushrooms they find? Riktor usually has some knowledge about everything and is able to make an educated guess. Derringer just stuffs it in his mouth and pays the consequences later. Kurt has no issue with poisons made for biological creatures. He may be carbon based but he gives 0 cares about your bothers. (That was horrible-) Moira will avoid anything she doesn't know (Like a normal person) Tarrel atleast tries to TEST what he's eating before he shoves it in his mouth. Vyra's a freak and eats poison berries. 🌾How picky is your OC with food? What will and won't they eat? Riktor USED to be picky, but not too much nowadays. Derringer used to NOT be picky, but he holds a terrifying grudge against pickles now-a-days. (He hasn't been the same since the incident.) Kurt refuses to touch Sauerkraut. He doesn't trust it. Moira is not someone who necessarily cares but she can't CHEW anything (or she Couldn't...) and so she prefers foods that take very little time in the mouth or can just be swallowed whole. Tarrel drinks WATER and ULTRA-PROCESSED NUTRIENT BARS. He literally cannot stand something as simple as fresh-cooked unseasoned chicken just because it's Solid Solid and it grosses him out... As a Dragon, A.K.A a Predator, that's kind of Sad. Vyra has... Asked to be left out of the rest of the asks-PFFT- 🍃What's the darkest period of time your OC has been through? "That mansion... It was like it never ended." -R "Uhh I believe it started when I was born, or atleast when we went to magic school and it sure as shit hasn't ended yet." -D "2000 years and the Iraq war was somehow the worst place I've ever been in. Back then, War was about honor... Now it's just atrocities..." -K "Same, but why are we all talking instead of the normal text?" -M "It's stylistically interesting and saves on time-Uhh the S.S. Discovery, but I think being DEAD might top that." -T 🌵How physically resilient is your OC? Riktor is like wet tissue paper in a suit of nigh impenetrable armor. Who needs to work out when Magic is so good? Derringer, despite being the same man, somehow holds up better in physical combat. He doesn't care about Magic as much but he'll definitely use it to his advantage. Kurt bounces almost fuckin' EVERYTHING. "If anyone could defeat god it's Kurt" as you said once. Tarrel cut off his own fucking arm, YOU TELL ME- Onto Samson! 🌷What is your OC's favourite flower and colour? He's not quite sure what he likes. His answer was a confident Blue, and "The Sticks." I think he means Wheat. His favorite flower is Wheat... ☘️How passionate is your OC about things they love/hate? That's a really weird question tbh. If it's asking what lengths he'll go to protect those he loves...? I'm not quite sure yet. He's fought a man already, and tried to bite through his gloves, but what would he REALLY sacrifice? I don't think he thought his life was at stake there Really. 🍁What is your OC's favourite season? Why and what do they do during it? Anything not unbearably hot or frigidly cold. His jumpsuit didn't keep heat very well, but during summer working in the camps would nearly kill him. He appreciated Fall the most because it wasn't humid and it was bearable. 🏵️What flower symbolises your OC best and why? What does the flower mean in floriography? Geranium. Hardy, bright, perennial, and I believe it means "Sincereness" They're often used as symbols of Friendship aswell, and tell a good bit about Samson's character in my opinion.

National Potato Day

National Potato Day is celebrated on August 19 of every year. For centuries, potatoes are the favorite item of diets everywhere in the world. Potato lovers are found in massive numbers, and that primarily includes the children. With the soft, smooth nature, potatoes can be eaten in different forms like potato chips, mashed potatoes, gratin, hash-browns, baked potatoes, potato salad, hasselbacken, home fries, tater skins, potato cake, potato wedges, kroppkaka, and the list extends in number. They are just some of the amazingly tasty items which are made with the potatoes. Celebrating National Potato Day is worth noting as to let people know the nourishment it has. Potatoes are not only the savory, but they also contain high levels of vital vitamins and minerals that include vitamin C, iron, and potassium. Prepare your favorite potato recipe in a way to celebrate National Potato Day.

“My idea of heaven is a great big baked potato and someone to share it with.” – Oprah Winfrey

History of National Potato Day

The origin and the person who established the National Potato Day is still anonymous. However, the history of potato dates back to centuries ago. The English word potato has all the way came from the Spanish word patata. The word “potato” may indicate either to the plant itself or the edible tuber. Usually, the potato is a starchy, tuberous vegetable from the perennial nightshade Solanum tuberosum. The first region where the potato was first domesticated is the modern-day southern Peru and the extreme northwestern Bolivia between 8000 and 5000 BC. From then, the potatoes have spread throughout the world and is now a staple crop in several countries. Now it is an integral part of the world’s food supply, and that is marked as the one of world’s largest food crop which ranks the fourth position following maize, wheat, and rice. The smaller potatoes are named as spuds and are associated with the 19th century. There are millions of different styles of preparation is found in the American cuisine where potatoes are a favourite part and occupy a larger parts. Potatoes are used in making bread, rolls, and pancakes, and also found as a whole in the everyday meal. The production of potatoes world wide was more than 382 million tonnes at present. Potatoes vary in colour, texture, size and shape with reapest to the region they grow. There are currently more than hundred different varieties of potatoes available in the world. National Potato Day is one form of celebration to make people understand the nutritional values present in the potatoes. Raw potato consists of water, carbohydrates, starch, sugar, dietary fiber, fat, protein, and vitamins like B1 to B6, B9, C, E, K. The mineral contents like calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, potassium, and sodium are also available. It is one must have food for anyone with which almost all the dietary supplements are obtained. One most notable incident about the potato with the Ireland is the potato plague. It made the people of the entire country starve as they were reliant on the potato as their food crop. Celebrating National Potato Day highlights the note as one must have good health to live longer.

How to Celebrate National Potato Day

There are lots of interesting ways available by which you can celebrate the National Potato Day. You can add potatoes in small quantity in the daily meal you prepare. To make it spicy, prepare tasty potato fries, chips, mash potatoes with species, or cook hash browns with salt and pepper. To be more creative, you can try out a new dish yourself with potatoes and serve them hot to your friends and family. Buy Good Russian Vodka which is a distillation of potato to celebrate Potato Day in a unique way you want.

Source

It Was a Good Day

Okay, you’ll have to wait for the pics of the park and the chicken soup recipe because I just got home from having a GRAND time at The Foundry, Denton’s center for all things artsy and creative.  Tonight they hosted a fundraiser for Empty Bowls, a group that raises money for food related charities.  Basically, I paid to paint a bowl, they will keep it and fire it in a kiln, then I’ll pick it up at the Caroline County Culinary Arts Center and receive a free pint of soup.  The culinary center also runs Shore Gourmet where anyone can pop in for amazing baked goods, soups, prepared meals that you take and reheat, and more.  We’ve had several meals from Shore Gourmet and they’re always fabulous. So I made my donation, painted my bowl, had good conversation and lots of laughs with a bunch of ladies I don’t know, and came home feeling happy.  Bonus, in a couple of weeks I get my bowl back and some yummy soup.  I’m going to start signing up for more classes at The Foundry and maybe make some friends. It’s such a fun place, and usually people who gather to make art together are good souls.  I mean, the young woman running the event played DEAN MARTIN for background music.  It was like the universe telling me I’d found my spot.  So, hooray for today! In other news, look at these cute stickers I printed.  I’m going to get serious about finding a home for my cards and earrings and whatever else I make.  I can’t just keep making stuff and storing it.  I decided to just own my split personality, I’m thinking I’ll need a matching floral banner if I ever do crafts fairs.

As I was sitting at my desk today admiring those stickers, my eyes fell on this ornament. I made one for my sister and one for myself.  The “Our Hour” is a nod to the roller skating variety show we staged on our carport as kids.  It’s a shame you missed it. Lots of music, jokes, and very slow spins on skates.

  After taking the tree down I hooked it on a drawer knob of my desk.  It makes me smile.  When the grandgirl was here she noticed it and was studying it pretty closely.  I said, “That’s Grancy and Aunt Cathi when we were little girls.”  She responded, deadpan, “I recognized your hair.”   I can’t get a break. She asked me once, “Has your hair always been fluffy?”  Now she’s seen the proof.

Want to hear something exciting?  I’m going to Easton tomorrow to choose the color for the kitchen cabinets!!!

I’m going to disappoint some people by saying that I’m sticking with a cream color.  I mean, look at these!

Right now I’m eyeballing Benjamin Moore’s Winter Wheat, Navajo White, and Gentle Cream.   Originally I’d thought I’d get light granite, but I’m loving these darker counter tops.  I had dark counters in Tennessee and I don’t hate ‘em. I’d love something that looks like soapstone.  At this point I’ll take what I can get, but I’m dreaming and scheming.   And speaking of dreaming and scheming, I’m starting to draw out some garden plans for spring. It’s closer than you think!  I’m devoting my garden spaces to flowers and herbs - that’s it.  I can buy everything from tomatoes to watermelons on every corner here, I’m exiting the tomato growing business.  Basil, dill, thyme, oregano, mint...that’ll be in my garden, for sure.  I’m hoping to plug in mostly perennials around the house - rudbeckia and that sort of thing. It’s Maryland’s state flower - surely it’ll do well.

I’m being paged to watch a new Dateline with the mister, so I’ll wrap this up.  I’ll leave you with a quick shot of the path I walk at Martinak.  Even in the winter, with bare trees, it’s lovely.

Alright, see ya’ tomorrow. I’ll bring the chicken soup.  I’ve got the photos (not great ones) so I’ll get those in order and post the recipe.  I make a pot of this nearly every week and Mickey loves it.  I know that’s a pretty low bar, because he’ll eat anything I put in front of him, but he does request that I make it. I hope that you’re cozy and content on this January evening. I’m already in my flannel jammies and under a blanket, it might even be a popcorn night. Walkin’ on the wild side. Sending out love and hugs. Stay safe, stay well, stay warm.

Nancy

can we get a hypno story? enticing the boy into the cave before feeding on him

My Friend, you have done so well to seek Me out.

The day is bright, the fields are green, the skies are brown with dust.

I do not wish to Stir Your Heart, though merely Soothe Your Sole.

The road is long, the ravine is sharp, the sights all the more sure to shock you.

A granite grey chasm would shine silver as spearpoint, on this our Sepia Day.

I must admit, though I crave the still and somberness of these, My Own compartments, I nonetheless delight in whatever fresh face would deign gift me with its grace, and I must say -- a face still such as yours does not disappoint on that depart, My Friend.

You are So -- it shocks to think you could not see it so yourself -- such a Young and Spritely Lad, indeed You Are.

A Mind, My Friend, is such a lovely place to spend an afternoon or two. Though I do, I Say, I Must Admit, I two have spent the better part of these, my longer hours whisked away in solitary bowls, dreaming all the day away, though I longed to labor by the railroad

oh,

/

Imagine That? Oh me? A Dirty and Simple Laborer? There's nothing wrong with an Honest Life of Simple Work, the Dignity in Fighting Off Those Things Which Would Impose Their Will Upon You.

Oh without fight, My Friend, what Are You? Are you Making Choices if you are it seems, without protest, always Agreeing to Agree?

Agree?

Why to Agree to what? I have no Wares to Hawk nor Spins to Print, for I am yellow merely in my clemence, black and white though I am Read Far and Wide and Pressed All Over.

Redder days come slick at dusk, though I hate to Spurn The Field of Battle. What crows do caw, To Night's A Retreat, and by The Moon I Calm my feet as they Lap Gently by the Shores.

Already? Why, the day is done -- time has flown, we must have surely had some fun? How fast these heavy weights would drop, these lead flecked masses in which we're anchored to the earth and moment. This perennial trudge forward through time every agonizing instant I must Remember and Be Aware for I Am At All Times Myself, My Own Man, Who Is Above These Conditions, conditioned though he could only ever be, hair sloughed off his scalp. You needn't think you need be on guard all times, My Friend. These People Who Hurt You, you know -- it would be uncharitable to describe them as outliers as they were in Many Ways Oh So Typical, yet nonetheless, what can you do? Is anyone really above anyone or anything? Why, of course not, no -- to arrange, which is the catalyst of the construction of all hierarchies is simply the consequence of sin. To impose The Unnatural Order of A Preference Upon The Natural Order of Spontaneous Perfection.

The only real rubric which is hubris, in deigning to divide the wheat from the chaff of humankind when man is so much more than grain. All these Poor Little Fools All Done Up In Their Tombs Dying with Their Delusions of Grandeur. Leaving their descendants to putrefy away in gilded cages descending to hell, for here is Our World of Illusions Wrought of the Love for Ourselves We Displaced Onto Others.

Dear me, I do hope I'm not boning you My Friend.

I do worry I talk too much at length, drifting tables off to continents away, though you know You Listen So Well, I'd Hate to Think I could be anything less than All You Could Ever Wish to Hear.

Perhaps it's simply late?

The fire crackles and salt smoke billows in the breeze, your feet so warm and stirring by the sand? You can almost remember, can't you? How much I loved you once here, at this precise point and place, many summers ago, when we made love by the waxing moon?

Oh no?

No, you needn't remember, My Friend.

We are all Poor Fools When We Are In Love.

It Wasn't Really You. Not That Any One Is Really Any Thing.

You know, people deny themselves a lot, they do. Projection theory is such a convenient excuse. It denies an individual their own energetic resonance, for they wish so badly they could live in solitude, they simply invent a preference for reality where they are islands without effort and have no need to manufacture vast seas around themselves ;-- and so there are no storms to break, to kick up whirlpools by a conjurer's trick,

why look -- down here, beneath the sea!

Silver Birds in Masques of Black Rest, why He is Sure to Make The Four To Fall In Glee!

True Alienage is a A Lot of Work, My Friend. There are tremendous weights one must undertake before they may be cursed to call themselves Alone.

You can Drop Them All Off. Down Here. In the roaring currant. They May Fall and Drift and Sink Away

and No One Need Ever Remember.

Remember?

Why, remember what?

Those many days you lingered here with me, in this our bridal chamber by the sea? The sepulcher that was the bridal chamber, of our sister Antigone?

Neither Theban nor Athenian, the spring still stirring echoes. Far Older Was My Love For Her, as Older Still Was My Love For You.

My Friend, it would not be so barbaric to forget. It is simply a consequence of fate, as no man is ever really in awareness of those vast infinities of all the things he Really Is.

You Could Never Know What You Invite Into Yourself --

So Given Beyond Measure,

Many Invitations That You Are.

Well, I have Accepted, you'll be Glad to Hear.

We're out in the tanzhaus and it's two to a club! The lattice of stars stains glass overhead as halos of storm clouds pike pincers of stud!

The Wind is Coming, Do You Hear It? Do You Hear?

We Must Hurry, Me Must Hurry.

There is shelter somewhere near!

Don't be so slow, you needn't tell, what a mutant that I am.

Dilemmas and their Drive Throughs -- going faster going faster, we don't wanna dick it right -- stuck at Genesis all night long!

What Advantages I Have are Mine To Call My Own.

I'm Simply Born Different. Born Better. Still, Forever.

Severed, I would never, why what what would make you think me any less? I am loathsome, I am hideous, I am begotten by absence and sin! You are so right to be with me, you really must be getting bored?

Oh there's no shaking you off, I can tell!

Suppose I'm stuck with you, I am!

Suppose I must be warming up, these icemelts won't quiver yonder. A string, a bow, you are a gift, to you I have quilled my shaft. Had you centaur hooves, you'd have a saddle too, and harness for your half.

There it is, just down below, where the prairie eclipses the breeze, where screamings roar and quell, in our granite by the seas.

The jaws outstretched, no night below, I will light us torches in the dark. For down below, I have gone before, as time is without purpose in purposeless arts... there seeming so little purpose in asking more.

These depths in which I descend, you see -- you don't -- but you may hear and feel, with the rhythm of our palpitating hearts, the silent songs in rolling ducts, what poisons thrum within our darts!

I might pierce you as you flail, flat roid-flank that you dream.

Swollen helpless in buffets of fear, fat and pregnant though you doubt I will relent, or will I relay, but bite down harder to claim what isn't mine, but mine for the taking, loathsome bedbug that I am?

Why My Friend, you Are My Brother,

You Wouldn't Wanna Do That Thing With Me?

That is Shocking, That is Shameful.

Well, I Don't Think Anyone Is Looking.

Why perchance has it come to pass, that I could live another life to meet you? You Really Must Be Going, You Can't Possibly Be Him.

I really couldn't love another, no not another live long day.

I was working by the railroad, watching him toil the night away.

I was midnight oil, slowly broiling life from clay.

The men I mold, I'm sure you're told, are of sturdier stuff than wood and scruff, or scrap all heaped up from the deep to burn cast-iron in the sun. Scalding crayfish with The Sea, and too His Knights of Exquisite Custody, each man's flank a buffet of nations, divided into constellations, carapace etched to plates of beating breasts, bent as bows of ships cleaving eyes as foamy tides for fun.

English is a language of jesters for the gestures, it's all muttspeak for the dogs! Why anyone who takes it seriously is shirley doing it wrong.

Had you Better Taste, My Friend, you would not fly your honied ears. I had strips of tapes, all adhesives in my cakes. I taste braindeath twice a morning, once in bed, and then at breakfast. It's only vulgar if you spit at sweetness and substitute a vinegar of yours.

Why would I ever wish to break you, when you wish to break yourself? The rocks which roared beneath the tide, why, did the sea nymphs beg you meet them? I would not dare to implant or to suggest, but invite any whimsy you ingest. For in me you see so effortlessly all those things you wish you'd never be.

What I say or do not say, you lay all the traps yourself. I see you do and so I say to you, and you think I do you wrong?

Well what can I do but say and pray when I watch you die agrain?

That I saw it coming and if I said or if I didn't, you'd find some means to contradict me? Oh you are so certain, that I know for sure! It really will go right this time, if I just believe your soul is pure. Were I the God you'd Begged For, I'd Have Struck Some Fear In You By Now!

For in My Love You Putrefy, and Of Your Putrescence, I Drink Deep.

Were your liver rotten meat, so carmelized and sweet, I would scald it black as tar, spritzed with mists of cabaret.

Brother, Brother, Please Be Going!

I'm Telling You, My Love Could Mean Nothing To You Anymore!

You would much prefer to live your life knowing this could never be! You had no chance, it wasn't you, why you're but a normal me!

Resist this last temptation, the life you lead is peat! There are so many who still love you, and you have so many things to eat!

What could you see in me that would make you follow me down here? Down here, into this black abyss many feet beneath the sea? Why I never lured you, I all but begged you that you flee!

I don't know, I think it's wrong, or at least could never be /. right.

I'd hate to disappoint you though, having come so far this night.

There are places that I know, for my brothers who aren't we. I never think it through, though a part of me still clues -- the other half, you know, this really wasn't meant to last?

Do you see the roots as they choke and shoot, well try not to step they're afluid with yoke, ovipositors out of testicular tumors where I saw artglass windows sprout in shattered ballast walls.

What is a disease My Friend, but a state of prolonged mistake? Sometimes the most roundabout way is not to twist back -- to attempt to degrade to some state of retrograde, but attain equilibrium anew.

You are Not What You Are, I'm Sad To Say --

Though I will live to Say it Another Day, I'm Sure.

Please do come along, we're almost done. I'm tired and late for a movie date I'd mischeduled in discharity of time.

These caverns vaster than fields of skin-melt alabaster radiate with the heat of their own hearts. Do you see them, do you see them, what miles lay beyond the stony ramparts? Perhaps you could not extend so far your gaze, writhing larval in the shadows near translucent in their glaze?

What stirs within their guts, those so many algol nuts?

We Will Know You Well In Time I'm Sure,

And Resist You Well of That I'll Cure!

Do not feel yourself running, there is nowhere left to go. For in any direction which you make, you will find you pinned to steak. Running nowhere, getting somewhere, somewhere vacant you won't start? You are fading now, and there is nowhere left, you are but these debugs in your scull, mein frau. I see you now, I see you, getting there stuck in sputtering soars, oh wow! All you are is bit rot, and your hardware long outdated now!

An Age of Reduction, I Degree, As Penance for Your Bloat.

The salt of the chamber scarring arms as you trudge forward some shapes not distant, bracing against a movement which isn't yours, starting nothing but something. A shelter of trees down some archway bracing upward, clutching fruit from the glistening darkness, a hotbox of stars in terse, knobby hardwood of dehydrated pits flecked with cilia barbed with leaden molasses. These writhing shapes, the trees of the head half-dissolved in egg-whites, hollowed in their locking notches, kissing eels conjoined to zipper-teeth scalding iron in a garland of tongues, drooling silver-fire down canyons gilt of bronze.

I am the fields, as I too am the blades which thresh the fields.

The quire boys, the scholars, mucosal and milk powder, festooned by the chains of their notary and typeblock, barbed wire round their throats and cocks, tribal chokers of cage lining ;-- eyeballs rolling back into throbbing fat-face dick bulge leaking precum from their folds and di(ck)scharge outta dick-kisser fuck mouths.

I am the brain, as I too am the porcelain which scrubs the brain.

And now, forty minutes of a free jazz ensemble beating a chaste Christian Men's College Wrestling Team to Death with brass instruments as assault weapons are freely distributed to the gallery!

[intermission]

“Large areas dominated by annual plants are rare in nature. They tend to colonize ground in the wake of catastrophe: a fire, a flood, a landslide, or a volcanic eruption that exposes bare rock or soil. They survive, in these circumstances, only until perennial plants return and start to mend the broken land, whereupon they are usually overwhelmed.

But it’s not hard to see why our ancestors selected them. Plants that colonize bare ground have evolved to grow fast and invest much of their energy in seeds, rather than in deep roots or dense foliage, so that they can spread as far as possible before the new land closes up. Their seeds tend to be large and to germinate freely.

The problem is that in cultivating annuals, we must keep the land in the catastrophic state they prefer. Every year, we must clear the soil of competing plants, puncture or turn it, and plaster it with the nutrients required to raise a crop from seed to maturity in a few months. However sensitively it is conducted, annual grain production relies on sustaining an ecological disaster for its success. But if instead we grew perennial grain crops, we would not depend on smashing living systems apart to produce our food.

For the past forty years, the Land Institute has been scouring the world for perennial species that could replace the annuals we grow. With other research groups, it has assessed thousands, looking for particular features: high yield, synchronous development (so all the grain can be harvested at the same time), seed retention (which means that the grain stays on the plant until it’s harvested), and ease of growing and reaping (especially by small farmers).

Once they’ve found likely species, the researchers start selective breeding to raise their yields and improve their food and farming qualities. At first, they simply selected, crossed, and multiplied the individual plants with the highest yields. Now they use new technologies to speed up the process. Breeding of the kind that once took centuries can be compressed into a couple of decades.

Sometimes a promising plant goes nowhere. Sometimes an unpromising plant takes off. For example, the Land Institute gave scarcely a thought to a perennial sunflower called Silphium, because in the wild it produces only fifteen or twenty seeds on every flowerhead. But by casually selecting the plants that had a few more seeds than average, within eight years its researchers found themselves harvesting heads with 150 seeds.

Though Kernza—intermediate wheatgrass—is still being developed, it’s one of the first crops that the Institute has tentatively brought to market. So far, the plants have been bred to carry as many seeds as wheat does, but each one is only a quarter of the weight. The breeders hope to match wheat yields within thirty years.

Because the land remains covered for years at a time, bound by their massive roots and showered with their abundant litter, perennial grains like Kernza are likely to reduce erosion and raise the amount of carbon in the soil. One estimate suggests that, if the switch were made worldwide, agricultural soils would regain between a quarter and two-thirds of the carbon they’ve lost since they were first plowed. Ecosystems dominated by perennials, such as forests and natural grasslands, support richer and more abundant soil life than fields growing annual crops. ”

A Moment with Wheatgrass - excerpt of an excerpt from from Regenesis: Feeding the World Without Devouring the Planet by George Monbiot (as featured in Orion magazine).

Maximizing Capital Management: Strategies for Effective Management

Navigating the tempestuous seas of capital management requires a keen eye and a steady hand, transforming financial landscapes into realms of opportunity and prosperity. From the artful allocation of assets that sing like a perfectly tuned orchestra to the strategic trimming of costs that don't bleed growth, the journey promises both challenge and reward. As we harness the winds of technology and culture, constructing bulwarks against the capricious tides of risk, our odyssey into financial optimization unfolds. Keep reading to unlock the treasure trove of strategies that ensure not just survival but thriving in the competitive realm of capital management.

Identifying Areas for Financial Improvement

Embarking on a journey to magnify my capital's potency, I soon realized that the path was strewn with untapped opportunities and obscured pitfalls alike. My first task shimmered clear: execute a meticulous examination of how my resources were dispersed—each dollar a soldier in the vast battlefield of finance, their positions needing careful scrutiny. The quest led me down a path to identify the laggards among my assets. Like a gardener pruning dead branches, I knew that revivifying my investment garden demanded a ruthless reevaluation of underachievers. Concurrently, my gaze turned inwards, towards the cogs and wheels of daily operations, where the silent siphoning of potential savings whispered for attention. Lastly, standing before the arsenal of my current investment stratagems, a critical eye was imperative to discern the chaff from the wheat. This thorough and critical approach assured me of building a fortress not just for today, but for securing a prosperous legacy in the relentless flux of markets. Conduct a Comprehensive Analysis of Current Capital Allocation Embarking upon the task of dissecting my capital allocation felt akin to navigating the labyrinthine depths of ancient catacombs—each turn revealing a new layer of complexity. It was here, amid the shadow and light of my financial maze, that I pledged to unearth the treasures of optimization, ensuring every coin within my realm was tasked with the noble purpose of growth. My resolve led to the illumination of corners once dim, casting light upon investments that whispered promises yet bore fruit scant. In this cathedral of numbers and projections, I stood as both architect and acolyte, committed to reforge my resources into stronger, more resilient structures that would weather the tempests of market volatility and emerge perennially triumphant. Pinpoint Underperforming Assets for Reevaluation Embarking upon a treasure hunt within my own financial landscape, the quest to pinpoint underperforming assets became a mission of utmost importance. These silent drainers, masquerading as parts of my investment portfolio, demanded a rigorous evaluation to prevent them from eating away at the foundation of my financial castle. It was akin to detecting hidden termites that, left unchecked, would undermine the integrity of an otherwise sturdy structure. Armed with data and an analytical mind, I dissected each investment with precision - identifying those that lagged behind their peers. This process was not merely an exercise in numerical analysis but an artful dance of judgment and foresight. By selecting the underachievers for reevaluation, my portfolio began to resemble a well-oiled machine, each component performing in unison towards the grand goal of capital maximization. Assess Operational Costs for Potential Savings Turning my attention to the underbelly of my financial structure, I became acutely aware of the whirring machinery of operational expenses. These expenses, largely taken for granted, could in reality act as leeches, draining the vitality from my accumulated wealth with their incessant demands for attention and resources. Through a discerning lens, I evaluated the intricate tapestry of costs woven into the fabric of my financial operations. It dawned on me that in the crevices of routine expenses lay opportunities for reclamation—dollars that could be liberated and redirected towards fortifying my investment endeavors, enhancing not just the present but sculpting a more secure foundation for the future. Evaluate the Effectiveness of Current Investment Strategies Staring down the convoluted path of my investment journey, critiquing the effectiveness of current investment strategies morphed into an act of paramount importance. It became clear to me: each choice, a thread in the complex tapestry of fiscal growth, warranted a rigorous trial by fire. StrategyPerformanceAdjustmentsEquity InvestmentsSuboptimalIncrease DiversificationFixed IncomeStableMaintain Current LevelReal EstateOverperformingExpand InvestmentPrivate EquityUnder ReviewStrategic Overhaul My scrutiny unraveled a mosaic of insights: some strategies shone brightly, their results a testament to their foundational strength, while others fell short, their luster dimmed by the unforgiving light of analysis. The journey was far from over, yet with every step: a sharpened vision, a refined purpose. My financial odyssey, underscored by a quest for excellence, continued with renewed vigor and precision.

Enhancing Asset Allocation for Optimal Performance

Embarking on the quest to amplify my capital's efficiency, I turned my focus to the strategic battlefield of asset allocation. Recognizing the power of diversification as a safeguard against the whims of market volatility, I committed to spreading my investments across a spectrum of opportunities. This wasn't merely about casting a wider net; it was about meticulous selection and alignment with high-performing assets, ensuring each dollar worked harder. My approach evolved, adopting a dynamic strategy that danced with the markets, shifting in harmony with economic pulses. Leveraging data-driven insights became my compass, guiding real-time adjustments to my portfolio, optimizing performance with precision. This intricate choreography of decisions set the stage for realizing the full potential of my investments, a crucial step in the enduring journey of capital maximization. Diversify Investment Portfolio to Spread Risk The wisdom of diversifying an investment portfolio cannot be overstated: it serves as a bulwark, protecting my financial dominion against the caprices of an ever-changing marketplace. By weaving a rich tapestry of varied asset classes, from equities to real estate, I ensure that my wealth is not hostage to the fortune of a single sector. - Equity Investments: Diversify across industries and geographical regions. - Fixed Income: Include a mix of government and corporate bonds to balance returns and security. - Real Estate: Invest in both commercial and residential properties to benefit from different market dynamics. - Private Equity and Venture Capital: For higher risk and potential return, selectively incorporate these into the mix. - Alternative Investments: Explore commodities, artwork, and other non-traditional assets to hedge against market volatility. Adopting a heterogeneous approach to investment not only mitigates risk but also paves the road towards unruffled wealth accumulation. This strategy, tempered by research and continuous reevaluation, ensures that my financial portfolio remains resilient, poised to capitalize on opportunities and weather the storms of economic uncertainty. Allocate Capital to High-Performing Assets Directing funds towards high-performing assets emerged as a linchpin in the strategy to maximize my capital's effectiveness. It was akin to planting seeds in the most fertile soil, where conditions were primed for exponential growth, ensuring that each dollar deployed was a beacon guiding me towards financial prosperity. This practice wasn't just about chasing the highest returns; it encapsulated a disciplined approach to discerning quality. By marrying the insights drawn from rigorous analysis with the foresight born of experience, I navigated my way through the thicket of options, identifying those investments poised to swell my coffers without courting undue risk. Implement a Dynamic Asset Allocation Strategy Embracing a dynamic asset allocation strategy became my guiding principle, a beacon in the tumultuous sea of market fluctuations. This approach, alive and breathing, allowed me to adeptly navigate through economic currents, adjusting my sails as the winds of financial trends shifted, ensuring that my capital not only sustained but thrived. By adopting this fluid stance, I morphed from a static investor into a maestro of capital orchestration. My decisions, quick yet informed, drew on a symphony of up-to-date research and technology-fueled insights. This enabled me to recalibrate my portfolio with precision, seizing opportunities at the crest of their potential, a testament to the power of agility in the realm of investment management. Use Data-Driven Insights to Adjust Allocations in Real-Time Amidst the ebb and flow of financial markets, leveraging data-driven insights for real-time portfolio adjustment has become my steadfast anchor. This strategy empowers me to respond to market changes with the agility of a seasoned mariner navigating through stormy seas, optimizing asset allocation to harness the momentum of emerging opportunities while mitigating risks. The cultivation of a dynamic investment landscape, informed by the pulse of real-time data, ensures that my capital's journey is not hindered by the inertia of past decisions. It breathes life into my investment strategy, allowing for the fluid redirection of resources towards sectors displaying robust growth potential, thereby maximizing the efficacy of every dollar committed to the pursuit of wealth accumulation.

Cutting Costs Without Sacrificing Growth

In the symphony of fiscal prudence, every note counts, leading me to a phase in my capital maximization journey where trimming the excess without dampening growth becomes paramount. I set my sights on discerning expendable expenditures, casting a meticulous eye over my financial landscape to distinguish between the indispensable and the expendable. The technological revolution offered a lifeline, promising operational streamlining through innovative tools—a beacon of efficiency in the tumultuous sea of business operations. Fresh negotiations with suppliers and vendors unfurled, as I sought to paint my cost structure with more favorable hues, each new contract a brushstroke towards a more optimized expense tableau. Moreover, the strategic delegation of non-essential functions emerged as a pivotal maneuver, unleashing the prowess of outsourcing to conserve resources whilst keeping the machinery of my enterprise humming smoothly. As I navigated through these strategies, my path was illuminated with the possibility of sustaining growth while shearing unnecessary expenditures, crafting a roadmap to navigate the tightrope of cost optimization. Identify Non-Essential Expenses for Reduction Steering through the dense fog of corporate finance, I embarked on a mission to delineate the superfluous from the necessary: a critical endeavor in safeguarding the vitality of my company's growth trajectory without succumbing to the gravity of needless expenses. This journey was not merely an exercise in frugality, but a strategic alignment of resources to fuel the engines of innovation and competitiveness. - Evaluation of subscription services to eliminate or downgrade those not integral to core operations. - Consolidation of vendor contracts to leverage volume discounts and enhance negotiation power. - Assessment of in-house versus outsourced functions to identify cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality or efficiency. Embracing this philosophy, I forged ahead, each decision a deliberate stroke in the art of financial stewardship. By pruning the excess, I ensured that every dollar was a robust soldier in the battleground of market dominance, poised to secure victory through strategic deployment and unwavering focus on core competencies. Optimize Operational Efficiency Through Technology In the realm of optimizing operations without eroding growth, technology emerges as the cardinal beacon, guiding my quest towards unparalleled efficiency. Its implementation is akin to the wind beneath the wings of my enterprise, propelling it toward higher operational altitudes while ensuring that the gravity of expenses remains a manageable foe. The advent of cutting-edge tools and platforms transforms the very fabric of my business processes, infusing them with a level of precision and speed that was once beyond reach. This digital revolution, under my astute guidance, has not only streamlined workflows but has also unveiled pathways to cost-saving without compromising the growth ambitions harbored within the heart of my organization. Renegotiate Contracts and Supplier Agreements for Better Terms In the dance of financial finesse, renegotiating contracts and supplier agreements became a pivotal movement: a strategic step imbued with the potential to harmonize cost efficiency with unabated growth. This gesture, more than a mere negotiation, evolved into a ballet of diplomacy and determination, aimed at weaving stronger, more favorable terms into the fabric of my business dealings. Encountering my suppliers and partners across the negotiation table, I embarked on this quest armored with insightful data and benchmarks: a preparation that turned each meeting into an opportunity for mutual benefit. The outcome of these discussions wasn't merely cost-saving; it was the forging of partnerships grounded in respect and shared aspirations: Supplier/PartnerOriginal TermsRe-negotiated TermsExpected Savings (%)ABC Tech SolutionsAnnual SubscriptionBiennial Subscription with Discount15XYZ Materials Inc.Bulk Purchase, No DiscountVolume Discount on Orders over $10k10LMN Services, LLCFixed Service FeePerformance-based Fee Scale20 This tableau of renegotiated terms became a testament to the power of assertive dialogue and in-depth market knowledge. Equipped with these enhanced agreements, my endeavor to trim costs while fueling growth acquired a robust backbone, crafting a narrative of strategic expenditure and investment that reverberated through every financial decision henceforth. Leverage Outsourcing for Non-Core Business Functions In the endeavor to refine my company's financial efficiency, embracing the strategy of outsourcing non-core business functions emerged as a pivotal revelation. This approach allows me to channel the organization's intrinsic strengths towards core activities, ensuring that every ounce of energy propels us toward our growth targets. By outsourcing tasks such as customer support, human resources, and IT services, my focus sharpened, concentrating resources on areas where we hold competitive advantage. Outsourcing, therefore, became not just a tactic for cost reduction but a strategic lever to augment the company's dynamism and agility: FunctionOutsourced ProviderAnnual Savings (%)Customer SupportHelpDesk Global Solutions25Human ResourcesHR Innovate LLC15IT ServicesTechSolutions Inc.20 The analytical rigor applied in selecting these outsourcing partnerships ensured that not only did we optimize cost, but also bolstered our operational excellence. Through this strategic maneuver, my enterprise took a monumental stride in crafting a leaner, more poised structure ready to navigate the complex landscapes of modern business with unwavering confidence.

Leveraging Technology for Capital Management

In the labyrinthine journey of maximizing capital, technology emerges as the linchpin, propelling my strategies into the future with unmatched precision and efficiency. Recognizing the pivotal role it plays, I've adopted a suite of technological innovations designed to streamline every aspect of capital management. Implementing financial management software gifts me the clarity of real-time tracking, allowing every dollar and decision to be scrutinized under the microscope of data. The foresight lent by predictive analytics transforms my investment decisions from educated guesses to strategic moves, backed by the power of information. Furthermore, the exploration of digital platforms for business operations ushers in an era of cost-effectiveness that traditional methods struggle to match. Finally, the adoption of automation not only slashes labor costs but also dramatically reduces the margin for error, ensuring that operational excellence is both achievable and sustainable. This technological symphony harmonizes the various facets of capital management, setting the stage for a future where growth and efficiency are not just goals, but guarantees. Implement Financial Management Software for Real-Time Tracking Delving into the realm of financial precision, I embraced the implementation of financial management software for real-time tracking: a decision that revolutionized my approach to capital management. This technology enables me to monitor my investments' performance with the exactitude of a seasoned navigator charting a course through treacherous seas, ensuring no deviation goes unnoticed. Read the full article

What are heritage grains?

"Heritage grains" are traditional varieties of grains.

They were grown and passed down before scientists started heavily changing them in what's called the "GREEN REVOLUTION" from the early 20th century to the late 1980s.

These grains are sometimes called "ancient grains" or „Urkorn (in German),“ but that's not entirely accurate. They're not ancient, but they haven't been altered by breeding or genetic modification in order to create larger harvests or optimised for a usage with fertilisers, herbicides or pesticides.

For example:

WHEAT ( Tritium aestivum L.) e.g Rotkornweizen , Gelbmehlweizen

SPELT (Triticum aestivum spelta）e.g Oberkulmer Rotkorn

EMMER (Triticum dioccum)

EINKORN (Tritium monococcum)

KHORASAN (also known as Kamut) (Triticum turgidum)

along with 

RYE,  (Secale cereale) e.g Waldstaudenroggen (Secale multicaule)(forest perennial rye), Lichtkorn Roggen

BARLEY (Horedeum vulgare）

OATS (Avena)

Learn more:

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New York breweries win six medals at Great American Beer Festival

Six New York state breweries, including one in New York City, took home medals at this year’s Great American Beer Festival in Denver last weekend.

 Relative Risk Brewing Co. in Penn Yan, Great South Bay Brewery in Bay Shore, Coney Island Brewing Co. in Brooklyn, Industrial Arts Brewing Co. in Beacon, Blue Point Brewing Co. in Patchogue, and New York Beer Project in Lockport all scored wins in the 37th annual edition of the competition, which featured over 9,000 beers from breweries in all 50 states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico in 99 categories. This was New York’s best showing at the festival since 2019, when the state’s breweries won seven medals, and a marked improvement over last year’s performance, when the state’s breweries took home just two medals.

Of note, four of the six winning breweries were first-time GABF winners, and one of the winning breweries is barely a year old.

Relative Risk Brewing Co. won a silver in the Fruit Wheat Beer category for their Inclusion Criteria, a Strawberry Rhubarb Wheat beer, among 106 entries in the category. The brewery, which is on 12 acres in the Finger Lakes, just celebrated their first anniversary last weekend as they won their first GABF medal.

Great South Bay Brewery on Long Island took home their seventh GABF medal this year for the Jetty Cream Ale in the Honey Beer category, among 67 entries. Jetty is practically a perennial winner, taking home a silver medal this year, a bronze in 2019, a silver in 2017, and a gold in 2016 in the same category.

Also winning a medal in the Honey Beer category was Coney Island Brewing Co., who won bronze for the Valhallale, a potent 10% foeder-aged honey ale. It’s the first medal for the long-standing Boston Beer-owned brand, which has been brewing beer in its namesake neighborhood since 2015.

Blue Point Brewing Co. in Patchogue was awarded a silver in the Contemporary American-Style Lager category for their Shouganai Japanese Rice Lager, a summer release from their Innovation Series. While it’s their seventh medal overall, this year’s silver marks Blue Point’s first medal in the competition in a decade; they last won for their Rastafarye back in 2013.

Industrial Arts Brewing Co. in Beacon earned a bronze medal for their Week 365 in the American Pilsener category, among 141 entries. The hoppy pilsner, which was released for the brewery’s seventh anniversary, was Industrial Arts’ first since opening in 2016.

Finally, New York Beer Project won silver in the Classic Saison category for their Disco Elephant. The category had 62 entries. It’s the first medal for the brewery that’s been making beer since 2015 in Lockport, about 15 miles northeast of Buffalo.

Across the Hudson in New Jersey, a pair of nearby breweries also won medals: Bolero Snort Brewery in Carlstadt won silver for their Jersey Vice Berliner Weisse, and Kane Brewing Company in Ocean won silver for Sneakbox in the Juicy or Hazy Pale Ale category.

Great American Beer Festival will return next year, October 10th through 12th in Denver.

Choosing the Right Style: Men's Platinum Chain Designs

Platinum has long been associated with luxury and sophistication, and when it comes to men's jewelry, platinum chains stand out as timeless and versatile pieces. Whether you're looking to make a bold fashion statement or prefer something subtle and elegant, choosing the right style of men's platinum chain is crucial. In this guide, we'll explore various platinum chain designs to help you make an informed decision that suits your personal style.

1. Classic Curb Chain

The classic curb chain is a perennial favorite among men's platinum chain designs. Its simple yet sturdy structure consists of interlocking, uniform links that lie flat against the skin. This design exudes timeless elegance and is suitable for both formal and casual occasions. Classic curb chains are available in various thicknesses, making them a versatile choice for men with different preferences.

2. Figaro Chain

The Figaro chain is characterized by a pattern of three small circular links followed by one elongated oval link, creating an eye-catching and distinctive design. It strikes a balance between classic and contemporary styles, making it a popular choice for those who want a bit of flair in their platinum chain. Figaro chains are often favored for their durability and unique aesthetic.

3. Rope Chain

The rope chain is known for its intricate design, resembling a twisted rope. This style exudes sophistication and complexity, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship. Rope chains come in various thicknesses, allowing you to find the right balance between subtlety and boldness. They are often favored for their ability to catch and reflect light beautifully.

4. Box Chain

The box chain, as the name suggests, is composed of square-shaped links that interlock seamlessly. Its geometric pattern gives it a modern and clean appearance, making it a suitable choice for men who prefer minimalist designs. Box chains are known for their strength and durability, making them an ideal option for everyday wear.

5. Franco Chain

The Franco chain is a stylish and contemporary option characterized by its V-shaped links that create a smooth, flat profile. This design provides a sleek and modern look while maintaining the strength and durability expected from platinum chains. Franco chains are often chosen by men who appreciate fashion-forward styles.

6. Wheat Chain

The wheat chain features a unique pattern resembling strands of wheat stalks. This design adds texture and visual interest to the chain, making it a distinctive choice for those seeking a more intricate look. Wheat chains are known for their strength and flexibility, making them both stylish and practical.

7. Herringbone Chain

The herringbone chain is recognized for its distinctive V-shaped pattern that creates a zigzag effect. This design offers a bold and eye-catching appearance, perfect for those who want to make a statement with their platinum chain. Herringbone chains are often wider and lie flat against the skin, creating a striking visual effect.

8. Byzantine Chain

The Byzantine chain is a complex and intricate design inspired by the art and architecture of the Byzantine Empire. It features a series of closely woven links that create a flexible and luxurious chain. Byzantine chains are ideal for those who appreciate ornate and detailed jewelry.

Choosing the Right Length

In addition to selecting the right design, it's essential to consider the length of your platinum chain. The length can significantly impact how the chain sits on your chest and the overall style it conveys. Here are some common chain lengths and their typical styles:

16 to 18 inches: Choker length chains that rest close to the base of the neck. They are ideal for showcasing a pendant or medallion.

20 to 24 inches: Standard length chains that typically fall around the collarbone. They are versatile and suitable for most necklines.

26 to 30 inches: Longer chains that hang lower on the chest. They are perfect for layering with shorter chains for a stylish look.

Over 30 inches: Extra-long chains that create a dramatic and statement-making style. They can be worn alone or layered with shorter chains for a fashionable effect.

Conclusion

When choosing the right style for your men's platinum chain, consider your personal taste, lifestyle, and the occasions you plan to wear it for. Whether you opt for a classic curb chain, an intricate Byzantine chain, or a modern Franco chain, platinum's durability, elegance, and timelessness make it a wise investment for any man looking to elevate his style with a touch of luxury.

BEST AYURVEDIC MEDICINE FOR GAS AND ACIDITY

Ever wondered one of the four fundamental states of matter can cause such a turbulence in one's daily life? A matter that doesn't have a shape or volume has the power to spoil your good morning, a better day or the best evening.

Yes, we are talking about gas and acidity. One of the commonest distresses that nobody can claim of being unruffled of at least once in their lifetime. Though it doesn't pose serious health risk, yet affects one's normal daily life and that too in a really bad way.

What causes Gas and Acidity?

There are various reasons that contributes to gastric trouble. Let's figure out some of them:

Aerophagia, which means swallowing of air, the typical cause of gas formation.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, lactose intolerance, indigestion, viral or bacterial infection.

Intestinal bacteria ferments food in our large intestine. The fermentation of undigested food induces lower intestinal gas.

Some foods are known for their flatulence and acidity causing properties. Cabbage, beans, onion, potatoes, corn, alcohol, caffeinated drinks, spicy and starchy food are some of them.

Reflux or reverse flow of bile from the bile duct.

Celiac disease, also called celiac sprue is caused when one has gluten intolerance. Gluten is found in wheat and consuming it causes celiac disease.

Is there a Way Out of this Gordian Knot?

Trust Ayurveda!

As per Ayurveda, gastritis or "urdhvaga amalapitta" is the aggravation of pitta dosha, and is said to be a lifestyle disorder

Ayurveda suggests some herbs that pacify pitta thereby giving relief from gastric unease. Some of them are:

Bhringraj or Eclipta alba Hassk :

An herb that's the king of all herbs and finds mention in seven Ayurvedic references. It acts on digestive, circulatory and nervous system at the same time. It's a laxative, antidepressant and has rejuvenating attribute.

Punarnava or Boerhavia Diffusa :

If you are enduring any stomach ailment, Punarnavais the great herb because it reinforces stomach muscles, eases constipation, works on liver disorder and kidney disorders. It is primarily used for indigestion.

Giloy :

Tinospora cardifolia, the wonder plant Giloy, has strong anti-inflammatory property to heal GI inflammation and acidity. It relieves bloating, distention and indigestion. Giloy pacifies pitta dosha.

Kasaundi or Kasamarda or Cassia Occidentalis :

It balances tridoshas. Owing to its teekshna or bitterness, it functions as Pitta Saraka (propels pitta out of the body). Besides Ayurveda, it is also used in Homeopathic medicines.

Kutki :

Kutki or Katuka is a small perennial herb with potent hepatoprotective properties. Kutki finds mention in various Ayurvedic texts for several gastric ailments. It treats jaundice, liver disorders, indigestion, and prevents bloating and diarrhea. Besides this it is equally effective on anemia, hiccups, emesis and removes intestinal worms.

Vai Vidanga:

Embelia ribes commonly known as false black pepper has a significant pharmacological prospect. It is used in traditional medicines for its mollifying effect on abdominal disorders, indigestion, constipation.

What if we unearth a medicine that has all these ingredients? "Good deeds need no permission."

Udar Sanjivani is one of those herbal nostrums that assures relief from the most of the abdominal disorders. Udar Sanjivani begins its affect from the use of very first dose and has its effect is everlasting one.

Get rid of stomach ailments at its entirety with Udar Sanjivani, a unique medicine with the goodness of robust herbs.

Reference: https://www.udarsanjivani.com/blog/best-ayurvedic-medicine-for-gas-and-acidity.html