Monthly Archives: November 2014

In our house, there are two camps when “Black Friday” hits: the "Dedicated Shoppers" and, those like myself, the “Thanks, I’m Not Giving Up” eaters.

The “Thanks, I’m Not Giving Up,” population, still basking in the glory of the stomach-stuffing of the previous day, shuns leaving the home in favor of recreating the glory of Thanksgiving though various helpings of leftovers throughout the day. Often, this is done in a traditional wardrobe of elastic-waist fleece pants and a hooded sweatshirt. In such regalia, the following exchanges may take place (in one's head):

Q: “Would I like a mound of reheated green bean casserole?”
A: “Please…I think it only gets better on the second day!”

Q: “Care for some stuffing reanimated with a healthy dose of leftover gravy?”
A: "Well, it is the holiday season…”

Q: “Can I fit the rest of the turkey leftovers into one sandwich?”
A: "Well, I suppose everyone else ate while they were out shopping…”

Much like with Black Friday shoppers, it pays to plan, my fellow “Thanks, I’m Not Giving Up” eaters! As soon as Thanksgiving is over, start thinking strategy! To avoid making it a “Blech Friday,” (the natural enemy of seasonal reheat-aficionados) consider some of these tips from Diane Van, Food Safety Education Staff Deputy Director of the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service:

The June issue of the CDC’s Vital Signs discusses the disturbing fact, that when it comes to norovirus: “…the amount of virus particles that fit on the head of a pin would be enough to infect more than 1000 people.” Not only that, but this tough contender can withstand freezing, as well as temperatures up to 140˚F; it causes 19-21 million illnesses in the United States alone; and it holds the championship belt for being the “most common cause of foodborne-disease outbreaks in the United States”!

However, norovirus does not have to prevail this winter (a time when the illness frequently shows up). One simple, but very effective treatment is out there that can limit the spread

Here are some helpful tips to remember when using ice melt to prevent icy sidewalks and driveways.

Use It!

Whether it is in an effort to save money or time, skipping ice melt means that you are setting yourself up for slippery sidewalks, entryways and parking lots. This could be an expensive mistake for your company.

Don't Use Too Much

Evenly spread application is essential for optimal melt. Applying ice melt using a spreader ensures even application,
while scoops and shovels are most common, they can cause overuse or piling in areas.

Know When To Apply

Todd Spencer, former National Sales Manager for North American Salt, is quoted saying "pre-application is ideal as an initial deterrent before the snow falls, though it is often difficult to predict necessity." Ice melt