(NewsUSA) - Three square meals a day are a thing of the past. Busy schedules, diverse dietary preferences and the flow of modern life necessitate more flexible and convenient meals. Luckily, snacking is in the midst of a revolution. Traditional snacks like chips and pretzels have given way to bigger, better and healthier options that deliver both convenience and nutrition in one tasty package. Whether clean-label, organic, vegan or nutrient-added, it's up to ingredient suppliers and manufacturers to develop products that meet all of these demands. That's certainly a tall order.<br /> <br /> While there are no standard requirements for clean label snacks, naturally derived gums, hydrocolloids and colors are generally accepted in such applications and have become increasingly popular. You might see these ingredients listed as carrageenan, a soluble fiber from red seaweed, or cellulose gel, which is a refined plant fiber. In many foods and beverages, these ingredients improve shelf life and nutritional value without diminishing taste -- like giving drinkable low-fat yogurt that distinctive creamy consistency with every sip.<br /> <br /> They also prove quite functional in products that meet strict dietary requirements, like gluten-free and vegetarian options. Hydrocolloids and gums like carrageenan, alginates and cellulose gel can be sustainably sourced from nature and are perfectly suited for vegetarian and vegan foods. Either by improving the flavor and fullness of meatless sausage or producing non-dairy ice cream with that definitive indulgence and delectability, these ingredients are making new snacking options both possible and palatable.<br /> <br /> Reducing the number of ingredients in a recipe is one challenge and, more recently, adding ingredients has become another. We want foods and beverages with added value, but it's important to understand that introducing vitamins or nutrients to any product can significantly affect flavor and texture. Enriched, shelf-stable snacks that boast added protein need a stabilizer to maintain the quality of the product. Without the added ingredients like carrageenan, similar products might separate, taste chalky or be less effective than their claims imply.<br /> <br /> Food companies are adapting their product formulations and rolling out new products to meet demand for healthy snacking solutions. Naturally derived ingredients that help reduce fat and sugar content but maintain product integrity are changing the way we snack. They deliver that indulgent experience we all appreciate. For more information on ingredients that give us a variety of snacks for a wide range of diets, please visit www.FoodScienceMatters.com.<br /> <br /> Ref: Cooking - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - Spring is here and that means it's lawn cutting season. In the interest of curbing your carbon footprint and "going green," you may want to consider an eco-friendly alternative to a healthy, beautiful lawn - an electric lawn mower. Options for self-propelled, high-powered electric lawn mowers abound, and there's a mower to fit every lawn and budget.<br /> <br /> Special features of modern electric mowers include variable speeds that allow users to adjust to different conditions on the ground. That means no need for extra effort when going uphill. In addition, electric mowers can be set for slower speeds to maneuver around flower beds, trees, or lawn furniture.<br /> <br /> Many top companies, including DR Power Equipment, Ryobi, Greenworks, and Craftsman and Kobalt, among others, offer a range of styles and models for battery-powered, self-propelled, walk-behind lawn mowers that feature the unique and efficient variable-speed electric transmission designed by General Transmissions.<br /> <br /> "With the variable-speed, self-propelled drive system, you mow the lawn at your own pace. Change speeds whenever you want by adjusting your grip on the speed control. You don't have to stop what you're doing to change speeds," says Wouter Barendrecht, chief executive officer of General Transmissions.<br /> <br /> "The electric drive has a motor on it that controls the self-propelled function, so you can disengage the cutting blade and still keep moving with the self-propelled feature operating," says Barendrecht.<br /> <br /> Still not convinced? Here are the top three reasons to try a battery-operated lawn mower this year:<br /> <br /> - Easy to use. Battery-powered lawn mowers are safe and simple to use. Speeds can be adjusted without stopping the mower, and you mow at your own pace. Many of them include mulching features, and some have batteries that can be used interchangeably with other electric equipment from the same manufacturer. Other features, such as telescoping handles, make storage a snap, especially for homeowners in townhouses or other areas with limited space.<br /> <br /> "These mowers weigh a lot less than comparable gas-powered ones, so they're easier to maneuver and easier to store. You can even hang them by their handles on a storage hook in your garage or storage area," says Jeff Land, vice president of merchandising and engineering at DR Power Equipment.<br /> <br /> - Economically smart. A battery-powered, self-propelled lawn mower saves money. Think of all the cash you can save on gas this season, not to mention oil and oil filters. The batteries charge on a standard household current, and most homeowners can mow an average-sized lawn (about an hour of mowing power) without the need to recharge.<br /> <br /> - Environmentally friendly. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, gas-powered lawn equipment generates 5 percent of the air pollution in the United States each year. In addition, a gas-free mower eliminates the noise pollution, gasoline smell, and potential contamination and hazards of spilled gas and oil.<br /> <br /> For more information, visit generaltransmissions.com/en/technology/electric/ to learn more about what makes battery-powered, self-propelled lawn mowers a good choice for today's many homeowners.<br /> <br /> Ref: Gardening - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - It seems as if there's co-ops for just about everything these days - condos, farms, horses, and now yachts.<br /> <br /> Consider this: as with anything worth having, there are expenses and hassles associated with boat ownership that you may not even be aware of. But partial (fractional) ownership offers "all of the luxury and none of the hassle" according to the website of yacht co-op management company Saveene.<br /> <br /> It works like this: The more fractions you purchase, the more yacht usage you can experience. For example, a 10 percent purchase equals approximately four weeks of yachting time each year; 20 percent entitles you to eight weeks, and so on.<br /> <br /> For those who enjoy the periodical pleasure of luxury boating, fractional ownership is more cost-effective than sporadic charters, and has several other advantages:<br /> <br /> - Predictability. Saveene fractional owners hold equity in the yacht and have the option to sell their fraction any time they like. Purchase as many fractions as you want, up to 10 fractions per yacht. When you choose your dates, contact Saveene and they will schedule and prepare your yacht for your arrival.<br /> <br /> - Pampering. When you arrive at the marina, the yacht is clean, stocked, and safety-checked. Chart your course in advance, or allow your captain to create a memorable itinerary. Bring any food and beverages you choose, or Saveene yachts accommodate a chef or catering service.<br /> <br /> - Peace of mind. With fractional ownership, you avoid many headaches associated with owning a boat outright, including maintenance, repairs, storage, transportation, and insurance. Saveene handles the business transactions of purchasing and selling the fractions as well when the time comes.<br /> <br /> Saveene offers a range of options for yacht enthusiasts - a Sea Ray Sundancer for $19,995, a 36' Carver Mariner for a one-time fee of $ 39,995, a 64' Aicon for $89,980 or a combined usage of these for $69,985. All types are available at the same marina for viewing before making a purchase.<br /> <br /> Sea Ray Sundancer: This 34-foot cruiser is ideal for families, and easy to maneuver along intercoastal waterways for boating, snorkeling, and dining at dockside restaurants.<br /> <br /> Carver Mariner: This 37-foot boat features a fly bridge suited for parties, a home-size galley to accommodate larger food prep or catering, and a full entertainment center.<br /> <br /> Aicon: The 64-foot yacht includes four full-sized cabins plus crew quarters to handle an extended excursion. All cabins include their own facilities and TV/DVD setups, and the yacht includes a collection of water toys for kids of all ages.<br /> <br /> Want to go bigger? Saveene is also taking orders for an 85-foot Azimut yacht.<br /> <br /> Other benefits include the opportunity to check out Saveene yachts for a risk-free trial and the ability to write off your fractional purchase on your taxes.<br /> <br /> For more information about the benefits of yacht co-ownership, visit saveene.com.<br /> <br /> Ref: Boats - in Blogs

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(NewsUSA) - Owning a home is a huge investment, and once they've owned long enough to build up equity, many homeowners opt to leverage the equity for other uses. But if you're on the fence about taking on another monthly loan payment, an option that may be right for you is co-investing.<br /> <br /> With a home equity loan, you borrow against the equity in your home and receive a lump sum of money that you have to pay back each month over a specified term - commonly 15 years. The interest rate is usually fixed, but is typically higher than your primary mortgage.<br /> <br /> Co-investing offers an alternative to traditional home equity loans. In a nutshell, the co-investing company pays the homeowner an upfront amount, with no repayments for a set number of years, or until the home is sold, whichever comes first. There may also be an option to buy the company out, after a minimum restriction period passes. This option can be ideal for a homeowner who wants access to cash without the added financial burden of monthly loan payments, who has lived in a home long enough to build up some equity, and plans to stay at least another five years.<br /> <br /> Unison, a San-Francisco-based real estate company, is a leader in the growing field of co-investment. Unison offers homeowners a cash payment of up to 17.5 percent of their home's current market value. When the house is sold or 30 years pass, the owner pays Unison an amount equal to the initial co-investment, plus (or minus) a percentage of the home's appreciated (or depreciated) value.<br /> <br /> Here's an example: A homeowner whose home is currently worth $500,000 and who needed $25,000 in cash (5 percent of the home's value) would repay an amount equal to $25,000 plus 25 percent* of the amount the house appreciates in value during the time of the co-investment. With a larger co-investment, the company receives a larger share of the appreciation in value.<br /> <br /> Homeowners can use their cash for anything, but Unison recommends something of long-term value, such as kids' college tuition, medical expenses, home remodeling, or investing in diverse stocks and bonds.<br /> <br /> Other benefits of co-investing: Keeping gains from remodeling work and keeping the equity built from prompt mortgage payments.<br /> <br /> Being a good candidate for homeowner co-investing is not so different from being a good homeowner generally. Unison requires that homeowners keep the home as their primary residence; stay current on payments for mortgages, property tax, and homeowners' insurance; keep the home well-maintained to retain and increase value; and keep Unison informed of issues, such as remodeling plans or emergencies, such as natural disasters, bankruptcy, or plans to sell the home.<br /> <br /> To find out how Unison can help you get the most out of homeownership, visit unison.com.<br /> <br /> *This is a possible percentage for illustrative purposes. The actual percentage varies based on the specific HomeOwner transaction.<br /> <br /> Ref: Housework - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - Sponsored News - As we head into summer, it's important to find accessories that show off your style, while brightening up your wardrobe. Since summer brings an explosion of bold colors and vibrant patterns, this season's trends are no different.<br /> <br /> So pack away your dreary duds, your winter boots and clean out that closet to get yourself ready for some fun in the sun.<br /> <br /> Unsure of where to start? The following summer accessories are a must:<br /> <br /> * Slip into a dress. A slip dress is a simple, elegant base layer that can be dressed up with accessories and is a trend worth paying attention to. To get a high-fashion look, layer them with frilly undershirts and jumpers.<br /> <br /> * Fancy your footwear. If you're anything like Carrie Bradshaw, the best way to dress up an outfit is with a pair of wedge sandals. The right pair of wedges can glam up your look, make your legs look long, yet still allow you to move comfortably. If, however, you prefer shoes with little to no heel, you'll be happy to know that flat-flats are in (think ballet slippers and gladiator sandals.)<br /> <br /> * Go glam with glasses. Choosing eyewear that's not only stylish but functional can be difficult. Transitions lenses are great because they block 100 percent of the sun's harmful UV rays and are available in nearly all prescriptions. They also come in a variety of colors that complement your personal style and frame choice. With one pair of lenses, your eyes will feel comfortable indoors or out, in bright light, low light and everything in between.<br /> <br /> * Choose a hat. As important as it is to get some natural vitamin D, too much sun is bad for the skin. A floppy hat is a great accessory that lets you flaunt a style that fits your personality, get a little sun, but still protect yourself from harmful UV rays.<br /> <br /> * Grab a bag. A statement bag is the perfect way to enhance your look. When choosing the right purse for your outfit, think luxe fabrics, contrasting textures, and bright patterns. Pair with a great pair of glasses to pull off a celebrity look.<br /> <br /> For more information, please visit www.transitions.com. <br /> <br /> Ref: Fashion Women - in Blogs

Bent in Heaven's Twist<br /> <br /> I wear a smile, a fragile disguise<br /> A mask that hides, the tears I've cried<br /> The heavens twist, in a cruel design<br /> A fate that's sealed, yet I'm left to redefine<br /> <br /> In heavenly design, I'm lost in pain<br /> A twist of fate, that drives me insane<br /> The stars align, yet I'm still unsure<br /> A celestial guide, that's hard to endure<br /> <br /> I'm bent and broken, in a world so grand<br /> A fragile soul, in a body so unplanned<br /> The heavens whisper, "You're strong and free"<br /> But I'm trapped in doubts, that haunt me relentlessly<br /> <br /> I search for answers, in the darkest night<br /> A glimmer of hope, that shines with all its might<br /> But the twist of fate, it plays a cruel game<br /> Leaving me shattered, with a heart that's tamed<br /> <br /> In twisted threads, I'm woven with flaws<br /> A fragile fabric, with scars that never fade<br /> The heavens bend, in a mysterious spin<br /> A divine irony, that I'm forced to give in<br /> <br /> I'm a paradox, of strength and weakness combined<br /> A human heart, that's constantly redefined<br /> The twist of heaven's hand, a mysterious fate<br /> A life that's unpredictable, with moments that create<br /> <br /> I yearn for solace, in the chaos and strife<br /> A peaceful haven, where I can be alive<br /> But the heavens twist, in a celestial rhyme<br /> A melody of pain, that echoes through my prime<br /> <br /> In this twisted world, I'm searching for a light<br /> A guiding star, that shines through the darkest night<br /> A beacon of hope, that leads me to the shore<br /> Where I can find peace, and be forever more.<br /> <br /> <span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Writing - in Blogs</span>

(NewsUSA) - Sponsored News - It seems as if there is nothing a smartphone can't do these days. It can get you where you want to go (most of the time), you can make reservations at your favorite restaurant, and now you can use it to detect whether your home is leaking energy or water.<br /> <br /> Thermal imaging, a once-costly technology, available only to the military and police or firefighters, is now just a finger-swipe away with the right attachment to your smartphone, thanks to Seek Thermal, a California-based technology company.<br /> <br /> The way it works is this: the Seek Compact Camera (which is smaller than a credit card swiper for your phone) attaches to your smartphone, turning it into a thermal imager that can then identify hot and cold spots in your house. After downloading a free app, the camera begins working in seconds and homeowners can then easily spot energy loss in the home caused by air leaks, missing or damaged insulation, insufficient HVAC or poor construction. In addition, the thermal imaging camera can also find water in roofs, walls, doors, and window frames.<br /> <br /> According to one user who tested the Seek camera at the end of winter in his own home, the results were "stunning."<br /> <br /> "Within minutes, I was able to detect sources of heat leaking out of my house," he says. "Some of these places are easy to fix, while others would be quite difficult."<br /> <br /> For professional contractors, the Seek CompactPRO is a must-have because the camera has enough sensitivity to locate radiant heating pipes under concrete slabs, identify unsealed insulation gaps in roofs, walls, and door and window frames, and find out how far water has spread in the case of a leak.<br /> <br /> Thinking of buying a home? This little jewel could save you all kinds of unexpected surprises in the form of water leaks in the basement and behind finished walls, and roof leaks that may have been painted over by a homeowner trying to disguise a problem.<br /> <br /> To protect your investment (both the camera and your phone), the Seek Compact has a compatible module for the OtterBox uniVERSE Case System.<br /> <br /> The smartphone attachment is designed to work with both iPhone and Android top models.<br /> <br /> For more information, please visit www.thermal.com. <br /> <br /> Ref: Awesome - in Blogs