Wednesday, June 7, 2017

What Is The Powassan Virus?

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Tick Season is HERE. And It’s Scarier Than Ever!

 

A healthy fear of ticks is nothing new for most outdoor enthusiasts and pet lovers, but there’s reason to be even more concerned and cautious this year. The Powassan Virus, a potentially fatal tick borne virus, is currently spreading across the United States. According to the Center of Disease Control, between 2006 and 2015 there were 58 reported cases of the Powassan virus in: Maine (2), Massachusetts (8), Minnesota (20), New Hampshire (1), New Jersey (3), New York (16), Pennsylvania (1), Virginia (1) and Wisconsin (16). So far in 2017, we’ve already seen the Powassan Virus move to two new states, with reported cases in Virginia and Connecticut. With experts predicting an unusually bad tick season this year, many other states are warning their residents to prepare for a potential Powassan outbreak.

 

What Is The Powassan Virus?

The Powassan Virus, carried by the deer/black-legged tick and ixodes cookei tick, can be found in Russia and North America and is categorized in the genes flavivirus. Other flaviviruses include dengue fever, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis virus, and West Nile virus. Contraction of flaviviruses like Powassan can lead to a condition called encephalitis—or a sudden inflammation of the brain. Initial symptoms of the Powassan Virus include fever, headache, confusion, general disorientation, nausea, and muscular weakness. While most infected individuals will not exhibit any symptoms, those who do will experience the flu-like signs of Powassan virus 1-3 weeks after contracting the disease. If not properly treated, the resulting symptoms can cause complications such as seizures, aphasia, cranial nerve palsies, paresis, and altered mental state.

There are currently no vaccines or medications to prevent or treat the contraction of the Powassan Virus. However, if detected in time, infected ticks can be removed before they’re capable of spreading the virus to you—It’s important to remove ticks from the host as soon as possible. 

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What’s Causing The Spread Of The Powassan Virus?

Increased cases of Powassan can be directly attributed to the rise in numbers of ticks this year. Historical indicators tell us that 2017 could bring one of the worst tick epidemics in recent history.  Goudarz Molaei, a research scientist at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, believes 2017s abundance of ticks is a result of two consecutive warm Northeastern winters, and longer spring and summer seasons.  All of which conspires to create an unusually favorable environment in which tick populations can thrive and multiply.

What Can I Do To Reduce My Chances Of Contracting The Powassan Virus?

The only way to reduce the probability of contracting the Powassan Virus is by reducing your exposure to Ticks. By creating an environment inhospitable to ticks and other biting insects, you can rest assured that you and your family will remain free of tick-borne illnesses like the Powassan Virus. Although applying an all natural insect repellent to you and your pet before heading outdoors is important , treating your home and lawn is an equally necessary step to keep ticks away from you, your family and your pets.

 

To Safeguard Your Lawn & Garden From Ticks, we recommend treating your yard with either PCO Choice concentrate, or its ready-to-use alternative, Yardsafe.

For Home, Pet and Personal Protection, we recommend using Cedarcide Original, or our extra-strength formula, Tickshield.

The post What Is The Powassan Virus? appeared first on CedarCide.

12 Foods You Should Always Buy Organic (And 15 You Don’t Really Have To)

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Healthier, fresher, more eco-friendly—organic produce has become popular for a reason. The growing fear of toxic pesticides—which have been linked to cancer, behavioral disorders, and birth & developmental effects—is a factor, too, making more people question how their food is grown and where it comes from. Because washing/rinsing only reduces but does not eliminate pesticide residue from produce, it’s time to seriously consider going organic.

By U.S. regulations, “organic” produce must be grown without synthetic pesticides (natural pesticides are OK!), chemical-based fertilizers, artificial preservatives, and without GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms). The resulting produce is of a much higher quality, but it’s often much more expensive. But don’t let that prevent you from choosing safer, more nutritional food for you and your family. In truth, You don’t have to go entirely organic to reap the benefits of organic produce. Just as some produce should always be purchased organic due to its high toxicity, some conventionally-grown produce can still be eaten without fear of pesticides or other ill effects. Here’s 12 items you should always buy organic (and 15 you really don’t have to).

(Don’t forget: Organic or not, you should always thoroughly wash & rinse all produce!)

The  Envrionmental Working Group (EWG) evaluates pesticide usage and its efects on produce each year. For their latest findings, visit their website. 

 

Always Buy These Organic:

Strawberries
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The Environmental Working Group’s latest findings indicate that Strawberries are the absolute worst fruit or vegetable in terms of pesticide toxicity. The EWG’s stats show that on average over 300 lbs. of pesticides are used on each acre of non-organic strawberry fields. To make matters worse, strawberries are the most difficult fruit or veggie to adequately rinse, since all those little pits double as pesticide-trapping reservoirs.

 

Spinach
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Spinach is a highly nutritional alternative to lettuce or cabbage. However, unless you’re buying organic, spinach can also be harmful to your health. The EWG ranks this vegetable as the second most pesticide-covered fruit or veggie for 2017. Furthermore, according to the EWG, Spinach has on average twice as much pesticide residue by weight than any other crop.

 

Nectarines
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They might be a sweet, tart and refreshing summer snack, but non-organic Nectarines contain several of the most dangerous pesticides in the world. Nectarines are #3 on the EWG’s most pesticide-ridden produce list for 2017.

 

Apples
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Apples are the fourth most pesticide-contaminated fruit or vegetable in 2017 according to the Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit organization that monitors pesticide usage in the U.S. The average non-organic apple contains up to 48 different pesticides. According to information collected from the USDA, even after thorough washing, 98% of all apples still contain at least one toxic pesticide.

 

Peaches
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Peaches clock in at #5 on the EWG’s most pesticide-laden fruit and veggies list. Like strawberries, apples and spinach, 98% of all peaches—even after washing—contain at least 1 harmful pesticide.

 

Pears
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On average, non-organically grown pears contain at least 40 known pesticides—8 are probable carcinogens, 7 are neurotoxins, 11 are suspected hormone disruptors, and 5 are thought to cause reproductive or developmental complications in women and children.

 

Cherries
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Even after washing, nearly 100% of all cherries contain detectable levels of toxic pesticides. Of all the food you should buy organic, this is right near the top of the list.

 

Grapes
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On average, a batch of grapes contains upwards of 60 different pesticides. From known carcinogens to neurotoxins and hormone disruptors, non-organic grapes are littered with frightening chemicals.

 

Celery
Celery is something of a gateway vegetable, with many parents introducing their children to vegetables by slathering these fibrous green stalks with ranch dressing and other dips. But if you plan to feed these to your children, you better buy organic—celery contains at least 64 different pesticides!

 

Tomatoes
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Starting in 2017, cherry tomatoes are no longer considered a risky pesticide crop. However, your standard tomato still ranks as one of the worst. With over 35 pesticides on your average tomato, you should definitely go organic when shopping for these fruits/vegetables.

 

Sweet Bell Peppers
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Sweet bell peppers are quickly becoming one of America’s favorite snacks. Sadly, they also rank as of the most pesticide-riddled vegetables available. Sweet Bell Peppers come in at #11 on the EWG’s most pesticide-contaminated fruits and veggies rankings.

 

Potatoes
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Non-organic sweet potatoes remain a relatively safe choice as far as pesticides go. The same, however, cannot be said of its starchier cousin, which is known to commonly carry upwards of 35 different pesticides!

Fruits & Vegetables You Don’t Have To Buy Organic

Due to their low pesticide toxicity and lack of GMOs & preservatives, the following fruits and vegetables do not need to be purchased organic:

  • Asparagus
  • Avocado
  • Cabbage
  • Sweet Corn
  • Eggplant
  • Kiwi
  • Mango
  • Onion
  • Papaya
  • Pineapple
  • Cauliflower
  • Grapefruit
  • Cantaloupe
  • Frozen Sweet Peas
  • Honey Dew Melon

 

Growing Your Own Produce?
To keep your family, pets and the soil safe & healthy, be sure to choose eco-friendly, all natural pesticides for your lawn & garden.

 

The post 12 Foods You Should Always Buy Organic (And 15 You Don’t Really Have To) appeared first on CedarCide.

Monday, June 5, 2017

10 Scary Things You Didn’t Know About Lyme Disease

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Lyme Disease is said to affect more people in the U.S. than HIV, AIDS and even breast cancer. Early symptoms range from flu-like pain and exhaustion, to localized paralysis and memory loss. A startling 40% of those who contract Lyme disease, however, will suffer long term complications too—such as infertility, debilitating joint pain, daily fatigue, even depression. If not detected and treated early, Lyme can lead to permanent neurological impairment, heart damage and, in rare cases, even death. Here’s 10 more frightening things you might not know about Lyme disease:

 

Lyme-Carrying Ticks Can Be the Size of the Period At the End of This Sentence. 

Ticks have four life stages: egg, larvae, nymph, and adult. Although not fully developed at the nymph stage, these immature ticks still spread Lyme disease. Worst yet, nymphs are essentially invisible. For perspective, the average nymph is smaller than the size of a grain of salt or pepper, smaller even than a pinhead (approximately 4/100 of an inch).

 

2017 Could Be the Worst Year For Lyme Disease We’ve Ever Seen 

The CDC reports that on average the United States experiences 330,000 new cases of Lyme disease each year—that’s 38 cases per hour. And those numbers are only getting worse. Since 1982, the number of reported cases has increased 25X (that’s 2500%!). With spring coming earlier than expected this year in most parts of the country, and with an unusually large increase in rodent populations across the Northeast, experts are predicting that 2017 will likely be the worst year for Lyme disease on record.

 

Less than 20% of Lyme Disease Sufferers Develop the Infamous Bull’s Eye Rash

The most well known Lyme disease symptom is the bull’s eye rash. In fact, most people use this symptom to tell whether they’ve contracted the disease or not. However, only about 20% of people with Lyme ever develop this rash.

 

Children Are Most At Risk

As scary as Lyme disease can be, the thought that children are at the highest risk of contracting the disease is worse. The CDC reports that those between the ages of 3-14 are the most likely to suffer from Lyme. The elderly are the second most vulnerable.

 

On Average, It Takes 2-3 Years To Properly Diagnose Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is often called ‘The Great Imitator’ because of how difficult it is to accurately identify. Its wide array of symptoms often leads to misdiagnosis. In fact, it’s not uncommon for Lyme sufferers to visit several doctors before a correct diagnosis is made.

“My patients have usually been around the block by the time I assess them—this means dozens of physicians, prescriptions, and misdiagnoses,” says Neurologist and Clinical Neurophysiologist Dr. Elena Frid.

 

Lyme Medications Can Cause Even More Pain Than the Disease

Although relatively uncommon, about 15% of patients experience an adverse side effect to Lyme antibiotics called the Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction. As the medication begins to eliminate Lyme bacteria, the disease responds by releasing inflammation-causing proteins. Flu-like symptoms—fever, aches, chills—and both acute and general pain often result. While only lasting a short time, this reaction can leave you bed ridden for days.

 

Lyme Disease Affects Every State In The U.S.

Think because you live in the South you’re safe from ticks? Think again. Although over 90% of Lyme cases occur in the Northern U.S., cases of Lyme disease have been reported in all 50 of the United States. In fact, contracting Lyme disease in Southern regions can be even worse since the disease is far more likely to be misdiagnosed.

 

Lyme Can Spread From Mother To Baby During Birth

Not only can Lyme disease cause pregnancy complications such as infertility, it can also be passed onto children during birth. A frightening 20% of babies born to mothers suffering from Lyme will contract the disease. This method of contracting lyme can cause debilitating, even fatal, birth defects.

 

Lyme Disease Can Lead to Depression, Brain Fog, and Psychosis

While temporary memory loss and lowered cognitive function are common symptoms in those with lyme disease, long term symptoms can be much worse. Brain fog, life-threatening depression, and psychosis have all been linked to Lyme disease. These symptoms are known to last for as long as a decade.

 

Testing For Lyme Disease Is Often Unreliable 

The Elisa test is perhaps the most administered test for Lyme disease across the country. Unfortunately, reports indicate that this test results in approximately 35% false negatives. Other sources have shown that upwards of 70% of all blood tests for Lyme result in either false negatives or false positives.

 

How Can You Avoid Lyme Disease?

Check out “How To Tick-Proof Your Yard Naturally”

The only way to reduce the probability of contracting Lyme is by limiting your exposure to Ticks. By creating an environment inhospitable to ticks and other biting insects, you can rest assured that you and your family will remain free of tick-borne illnesses like Lyme and the Powassan Virus. Although applying an all natural insect repellent to you and your pet before heading outdoors is important , treating your home and lawn is an equally necessary step to keep ticks away from you, your family and your pets.

To Safeguard Your Lawn & Garden From Ticks, we recommend treating your yard with either PCO Choice concentrate, or its ready-to-use alternative, Yardsafe.

For Home, Pet and Personal Protection, we recommend using Cedarcide Original, or our extra-strength formula, Tickshield.

 

The post 10 Scary Things You Didn’t Know About Lyme Disease appeared first on CedarCide.

Why You Should Stop Using Synthetic Pesticides Today

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Over 1 billion pounds of synthetic pesticides are used worldwide every year. Over 95% of these end up somewhere other than their target destination—such as oceans, forests, our drinking water, our food, and inside our homes, pets, children, even breast milk. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) conducted a study of 9,282 people throughout the U.S. and found pesticides in 100% of those tested: the average person was found to have 13 out of 23 common pesticides in their bloodstream or urine.

But what can homeowners do to help minimize the impact of these pesticides? It turns out, a lot. The average homeowner uses ten times more pesticides per acre than farmers use on industrial farmland. Of the 30 most common lawn pesticides, 19 are linked with cancer, 13 are linked with birth defects, 26 with liver and kidney damage, 13 with neurological damage, and 11 with disruption of human hormones. Furthermore, 17 of these are commonly found in groundwater, 23 in our drinking water, 24 are toxic to aquatic life such as fish, 11 are fatal to bees, and 16 are toxic to birds. (At this very moment, the makers of Roundup—the most used pesticide in the world—are facing lawsuits from thousands of cancer-sufferers claiming Roundup caused their disease). So, in many ways, it’s in the hands of average homeowners like you to start minimizing the risks associated with pesticide use by searching for safer, all natural alternatives. Not convinced? Here are 8 reasons why you should stop using synthetic pesticides today.

 

1. They’re Poisoning Your Food

Washing vegetables and fruit removes all those dangerous pesticides, right? Wrong: the USDA reports that even after peeling and rinsing, 60% of all produce still contains at least one harmful pesticide. What can you do? Purchasing only organic produce is one option; growing your own, and using only non-toxic, natural pesticides on your garden, is another.

 

2. They Could Be Harming Your Child’s Brain

People are “not aware of the hazards that the unthinking use of pesticides poses to their children,” says Philip Landrigan, dean for global health and professor of pediatrics at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York.Because of their size and because they’re in the midst of development, children are especially at risk when it comes to toxic pesticides. When you consider how often children play in the yard, and how often they place their hands into their mouths, it becomes obvious why they’re directly in harm’s way. “They take into their bodies more of the pesticides that are in the food, water and air,” Landrigan continues; their “delicate developmental processes are easily disrupted by very small doses of toxic chemicals that would be virtually harmless for an adult.”

Frighteningly, studies indicate that children with parents who use chemical-based pesticides are at higher risk of several types of childhood cancer, brain damage, lower IQs, and other health effects. Sources have also proven that measurable levels of pesticides are prevalent on household flooring. So, when you note that infants are already at high risk of pesticidal side effects due to their weight, the thought that they’re often found crawling on floors should set off alarms in every parents’ mind.

 

3. They’re Killing Your Pets

Like children, pets are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of pesticides (which includes exposure via Flea Collars, too). Your pets not only live and play in your yard, they sometimes even eat its grass, insects and rodents too. One study conducted by the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University found that dogs exposed to lawn pesticides had as much as a 70% higher chance of contracting potentially fatal canine malignant lymphoma. Another study concluded that bladder cancer was also associated with lawns treated with inorganic pesticides, with even indirect exposure from adjacent lawns significantly raising your pet’s risk of getting this extremely painful cancer.

 

4. They Pollute Your Home

If you think that avoiding your lawn immediately after treatment keeps you out of harm’s way, think again. Gary Ginsberg, a public health toxicologist and assistant clinical professor at the University of Connecticut says, “there’s some inevitable transfer into the home or the neighbor’s home from use on the lawn.” Whether through windows or vents, or transferred via shoes or your pet’s paws, pesticide residues almost always find their way into your home. One study found that a week after treatment, pesticides could still be detected on all indoor surfaces: including kitchen countertops, tabletops and flooring.

 

5. Pesticides Are A Strain On The Economy

It’s estimated that exposure to chemical pesticides (along w/ other endocrine disruptors found in plastic, makeup, detergents and other packaging) costs the U.S. over 340 billion dollars annually in health care costs and subsequent lost wages. Endocrine disruptors interfere with proper human hormone function, and are linked with health problems ranging from infertility and obesity, to brain development and diabetes. The financial toll of these effects is said to represent at least 2% of our country’s entire gross domestic product, or GDP. The same study discovered that pesticide exposure alone causes more than 1.8 million lost IQ points and 7,500 intellectual disabilities each year—the annual cost of which is roughly $45 billion.

 

6. They Damage Our Environment

Because of wind, runoff, overspray, and their ability to leach into soil, chemical pesticides regularly pollute the environment, ending up in soil, water and other delicate ecosystems. How extensive is pesticidal pollution? In a study conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey, pesticides were found to contaminate every stream in the United States, and over 90% of all wells tested. These toxins were not limited to groundwater, though, they were also found in rainwater and fog, too.

Another study conducted in Australia—which tested areas directly bordering the Great Barrier Reef—found that pesticides were detected in 90% of all samples the Australian scientists collected. When chemicals from pesticides enter an ecosystem they disrupt normal biological processes and therefore decrease overall biodiversity, greatly limiting the number of surviving species. Unfortunately, this effect can persist for long periods of time, as many pesticides are also soil contaminates—meaning these toxins can stay active in the soil for decades.

 

7. They Harm Wildlife

Pesticides seem to be especially harmful to marine life and birds. By the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service’s own estimation, more than 72 million birds die in the U.S. each year as a result of pesticide use. But because many pesticides are bioaccumulative—meaning toxic levels can slowly build up within an organism over time—they have the potential to disrupt entire food chains of which birds and fish represent only a small part.

In truth, pesticidal contamination has the potential to affect nearly every living organism, if not directly then indirectly through ecosystem damage. One particularly chilling example can be found in bees, which are one of the most integral organisms to survival on this planet. Largely due to the widespread use of toxic pesticides, the world’s bee populations have been falling drastically in what scientists call colony collapse disorder. And while recent restrictions in pesticide use have helped restore their numbers, pesticides continue to threaten the health of bees worldwide.

 

8. You

If you’re among the millions of people that use synthetic pesticides in and around your home, your health is at risk. The following conditions have all been linked to pesticide exposure.

The post Why You Should Stop Using Synthetic Pesticides Today appeared first on CedarCide.

Tuesday, May 30, 2017

10 Must-Have Items When Hiking With Your Dog

Hiking and backpacking are fun. But hiking/backpacking with your dog is even better! Unfortunately, forgetting to pack the necessary equipment and gear can easily ruin this otherwise fruitfull experience. For the safety, health and enjoyment of both you and your furry friend, here are 10 essential items you need to take on every hike (as recommended by Rover.com).

 

Collapsible Water Bowl and Fresh water—Enough For Both Of You

You can purchase collapsible water bowls from pet stores, specialty shops and various online retailers. They’re portable, lightweight and easy to clean.  Of course, fresh water is also essential. Because it’s not always safe for dogs to drink directly from natural water sources like creeks and ponds, be sure to bring plenty of water for both you and your furry hiking partner. You’ll both be burning a lot of energy, so bring enough water to account for the extra physical exertion.

Snacks

Speaking of energy, you’ll run out of it fast if you don’t bring enough snacks to replenish your reserves. Don’t forget about your best hiking pal—dogs love (and need) snacks, too! Tip: bring snacks the two of you can share, like bananas and peanut butter.

 

Dog Booties

Hiking booties are a good item to have on hand in case your dog tears his foot pad, or injures a toenail. Putting that paw in a bootie will help prevent the wound from getting debris or bacteria in it, or otherwise becoming worse. It’s often a good idea to put these on your pet as a precautionary measure anyway, if only to prevent such injuries. These can be purchased online or at your local pet or outdoors store. Tip: bring a small,  dog-specific first-aid kit, too, just in case.

 

Leash

Even if your dog is great off-leash, trail etiquette asks that all hikers use one on their pups. Nowadays, even most dog-friendly hiking trails require leashes—it helps preserve the trail itself, and generally makes other hikers more comfortable. In the event you pass another dog on the trail, a leash helps ensure the encounter remains safe and under control.

Natural Insect Repellent

Hiking is an easy way to pick up bugs & bug bites. Ticks can transfer a number of serious diseases to your dog, and mosquitoes bites can lead to deadly heartworm disease. That’s why preventing bug bites when hiking is absolutely essential. Treating your dog with an all natural, nontoxic insecticide and repellent is the safest way to keep bugs off your pet when hiking. Choosing a natural alternative to chemical pesticides is important, as most insecticides—even those specifically marketed to dogs—contain toxins that are dangerous for people, pets and the environment.

 

Brush (For Removing Plants, Burrs, Etc)

If your dog gets a burr or other object stuck in their fur, you’ll need a brush on hand to remove the item. Having a foreign object lodged near their skin can make hiking an extremely uncomfortable experience for your dog.

 

Dog-Approved Sunscreen

Your dog’s exposed skin—like on their nose, lips and other hairless parts—is susceptible to sunburn. Applying sunscreen to these areas before every hike is a must. If your dog gets wet or if your hike is unusually long, you’ll likely need to apply another layer of sunscreen. Caution: only use sunscreen intended for canine use; common human sunscreen ingredients like zinc oxide and para-aminobenzoic acid are toxic to dogs.

Plenty of Poop Bags 

As every hiker/backpacker knows, all trash needs to be backpacked out—including your pup’s poop. The delicate ecosystems surrounding hiking trails can be easily disrupted by foreign waste like dog feces. Hiking etiquette dictates that all hikers leave no trace behind. This applies to your dog, too.

Dog pack

This isn’t a necessity, especially if you have plenty of room in your own pack. However, having your dog carry their own items (water bowl, snacks, booties, etc) can really help lighten your own load. Make sure the pack fits your pup snug and that the weight never exceeds ⅓ of your dog’s body weight.

Camera

Okay, so this isn’t explicitly “for” your dog, but taking photos of the hiking experiences you share with your dog is something the both of you will cherish for years to come.

The post 10 Must-Have Items When Hiking With Your Dog appeared first on CedarCide.

Tuesday, May 23, 2017

10 Ways You Can Honor American Heroes This Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a time to honor those who defended our country with their lives. For those veterans, soldiers and first responders who put others before themselves—for those ancestors, friends and loved ones that helped make our country the bastion of freedom that it is today.

With time, Memorial Day has also become a day for celebrating the start of summer: for BBQs, for swimming, for other carefree fun. Unfortunately, the real meaning of Memorial Day is often lost in the middle of all this celebrating. In remembrance of what Memorial Day truly stands for, here’s 10 ways that you and your family can honor the true spirit of this patriotic holiday.

 

1. Fly the American Flag

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Of all days to fly the flag, Memorial Day is among the most important. Because Memorial Day is traditionally a day of mourning, etiquette dictates the flag should remain at half-staff from sunrise until noon (to honor our fallen heroes), and full-staff for the remainder of the day (to honor our living veterans). However, remember the American flag should always fly higher than all others, including state and county flags.

 

2. Visit a Cemetery or War Memorial

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Memorial Day is a day to celebrate the courage of our fallen veterans. Whether it belongs to a family member, a friend, or even a stranger, decorating the graves of American soldiers with flowers or flags is a meaningful way to show that you care. You can find the closest VA National Cemeteries for Memorial Day Ceremony by visiting the U.S. Dept. of Veteran Affairs website.  

 

3. Send a Care Package or Make a Financial Donation

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Sending a care package to a soldier in the armed forces is a powerful way to show you appreciate their service and sacrifices. Friends, family and even strangers can benefit from the thought and your generosity. Including a handwritten letter will only make the gesture that much more moving. Organizations like Operation Gratitude will help you with the process.

Veterans and pro-veteran organization are always in need of financial support. Visit Charity Navigator for more information.

 

4. Attend a Memorial Service

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Nearly every city has some sort of Memorial Day celebration—whether it be a parade, a picnic, a concert, or a formal ceremony. Show your support by joining your community in celebration of our soldiers both fallen and living.

 

5. Join Us For Carry the Load

One of the ways we at Cedarcide celebrate Memorial Day is by participating in Dallas’ Carry the Load March. This 20-hour walk honors military service of all shapes and sizes, with proceeds benefitting suitable charities. Find out how you can volunteer here.

 

6. Personally Thank a Veteran

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A personal “Thank You” to those who served our country is a heartfelt way to express your respect and gratitude. If you don’t have a family or friend involved in the military, you can visit a local veteran’s hospital and show your appreciation face-to-face. A small gesture like flowers, a card or baked goods will make the experience all the more special.

 

7. Observe a Minute of Silence At 3 p.m.

The National Moment of Remembrance was established in 2000 to commemorate those we honor on Memorial Day. At 3 p.m. local time, take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices and bravery of the soldiers that served to safeguard the integrity of our great nation.

 

8. Help Preserve Soldiers’ Legacies

Have a family member or friend who served or is serving in the military? Whether it be over the phone or in person, take a moment to sit down with them to share in their stories. Not only is this a kind gesture, you’re certain to learn a great deal. Recording these stories on tape or on paper is a useful way to help preserve the valiant efforts of our country’s many heroes.

 

9. Volunteer

Donating your time to veterans and veteran causes in need is an incredibly thoughtful tribute to our nation’s’ soldiers. You can learn more about volunteering by visiting The United Service Organization’s website, or The U.S.Dept. of Veteran Affairs’ volunteer site.

 

10. Buy And Wear a Red Poppy

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The red poppy has come to symbolize soldiers and the great sacrifices they’ve all had to make. To benefit soldiers and various veteran agencies, purchase a red poppy and display it proudly on Memorial Day. It’s a touching way to outwardly show your support.

The post 10 Ways You Can Honor American Heroes This Memorial Day appeared first on CedarCide.

Monday, May 22, 2017

6 Ways To Use PCO Choice In The Laundry

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Longtime fans of Cedarcide will be familiar with PCO Choice, our popular outdoor pest control concentrate. What’s less known is that PCO Choice can also be used as a laundry additive to help kill and repel fleas, ticks, mites, mosquitoes, moths, bed bugs and more. PCO Choice is water-soluble and does not stain—it will also give your clothing, bedding, and other linens a refreshing cedar smell.

 

Here’s how to use PCO Choice in the laundry:

 

  • Pour 1-2 oz. of PCO Choice into your washing machine in the space where laundry detergent is usually added. More PCO Choice can be used if a stronger cedar scent is desired.
  • Add laundry detergent as you normally would for a typical load.
  • Proceed to wash your laundry as usual.
  • That’s it—you’re done!

 

Dog Or Cat Beds

Protect your pet from fleas, ticks, mange (which is caused by skin mites) and other biting insects by washing their bed with PCO Choice. Not only will this eliminate any hidden pests, it will help repel future insects from taking up residence in your pet’s bedding.

 

Bed Bugs
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Along with fleas, these pests are arguably the most difficult to treat. An important step in eliminating bed bugs is to rid your linens and bedding of any hidden bed bugs and bed bug eggs. Washing your laundry in warm/hot water with PCO Choice will ensure all such materials are 100% bed-bug-free.

Fore more info on bed bugs and how to treat them, read our Guide To Bed Bugs. Dealing with a an infestation? Here’s a thorough step-by-step ebook on How To Get Rid Of Bed Bugs Naturally.

 

Hunting

Leave the sprays at home—embed a cover scent directly into your clothing and washable gear instead. Washing your hunting materials in PCO Choice will leave them with a woodsy and fresh cedar scent that will last for days.

 

Repellent

Whether you’re attending a bbq, going hunting, or just doing some yard work, PCO Choice can help protect you from insect bites and stings. While we also recommend wearing an all natural insect repellent, washing your clothing in PCO Choice will provide an added level of protection while you’re enjoying the outdoors.

 

Mites
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Among the nearly 50,000 species of mite, dust mites are likely the most common type found in the home. From allergies to asthma, these nearly microscopic pests can be quite the nuisance. While daily vacuuming and dusting can significantly reduce their populations, dust mites are all but impossible to completely eliminate. However, there is one sure fire way to kill every last mite infesting your blankets, clothing, bedding and other linens: Wash them with PCO Choice. Not only will this kill them, it will help prevent re-infestation for up to a week.

Fore more info on mites and how to treat them, read our Guide To Mites

 

Moths

For generations, people have been storing their sweaters, blankets, and other linens in cedar chests to shield them from moths. Like all insects, moths are repelled by the smell of cedar. Washing these same items in PCO Choice before storing them for the season will prevent moth damage and leave them smelling great.

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