How Much Does an Aliso Viejo Country Club Membership Cost?

The Aliso Viejo Country Club, located in Orange County, California, sits in the hills of Saddleback Valley and is surrounded by the mountain ranges and valleys California has to offer.

How much does an Aliso Viejo Country Club membership cost?

The membership fees, as with any country club, will greatly depend on the membership option you sign up for.  The costs, according to members who posted what they paid online, could cost about $650 a month for the full golf option.  The initiation fees are said to be in the low five figures, according to the OCR.

The membership options

Golf — Golf members enjoy unlimited green fees, practice facility usage, tournament entries, weekly clinics, online tee times, complimentary shoe care service, clubhouse dining, private room usage, fitness center access, social events and discounts to the Pro Shop.  Golf members can also take advantage of the ClubCorp network benefits, including unlimited golf benefits, access to more than 300+ clubs, the opportunity to compete in ClubCorp tournaments and discounts to various hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues.

Fitness —  Fitness members may enjoy the use of the fitness club, complimentary fitness classes, clubhouse dining, private room usage, fitness center access, social events and discounts to the Pro Shop

Social — Social members may enjoy clubhouse dining, private room usage, fitness center access, social events and discounts to the Pro Shop

Aliso Viejo Country Club membership overview

The club features a par-72 course designed by Jack Nicklaus, making it one of the only two in Orange County.  Once a month, the club offers complimentary clinics, online tee times and prospective member play options.

Aside from golf, the club offers dining and fitness center amenity options.  Dining options include the Saddleback Grille, Snack Bar and the Taste of Italy.  The fitness center offers a free weight area, cardio equipment and personal training options.

What are the extra costs?

Golf clinics and programs can be an additional fee.  A junior program, for example, can cost $20 per player.

Leagues and tournaments are available for an additional fee.

Personal training, as mentioned, is available at the fitness center for an additional fee.

Tips to know

A dress code is strictly enforced by the golf staff and club management at all times.

The club, from time to time, does offer monthly golf day for the residents of Aliso Viejo.  It’s a great way to play the course without joining.  This flyer, for example, stated you could play for $50 to $135, depending on the day you play.

How Much Does an Army Navy Country Club Membership Cost?

Sprawled out on more than 500 acres, the Army Navy Country Club, with two locations in both Arlington and Fairfax, Virginia, offers golf, tennis, swimming, fitness and dining amenities.

How much does an Army Navy Country Club membership cost?

On average, the cost of a membership will depend on the membership you choose and oftentimes, the member’s rank if they are in the military.  For instance, the social membership, which allows members to enjoy everything but tennis and golf, can cost $5,000 to join and $300 per month to remain active.  Again, depending on the rank, the initiation fees can range anywhere from $1,000 to more than $35,000 and most monthly dues average out to $300 to $500 per month.  If you’re a civilian member, the costs are much higher, often around $55,000 to $70,000 to join and about $290 to $500+ per month depending on the age.

On this forum thread at DCUrbanMom.com, a member said they contacted the club as a civilian and was quoted $55,000 for the initiation fee and either $290 per month if under 35 or $520 if older than 35.  This didn’t include the $60 per month capital infusion fee.

This Washington Post article claimed the initiation fee is $75,000.

The membership options

Resident Member – offered to residents of Virginia counties, Maryland Counties, the District of Columbia or an individual who declares their intention to become a resident in the regions stated. They offer discounted rates for members under 35 years of age.

Social Member – this category allows a member to enjoy all of the amenities offered at ANCC, with the exception of tennis and golf. In addition, the subscriber may attend club meetings but cannot exercise the right to vote.

Inactive Resident Member – a membership option designed for a resident who lives within the listed regions earlier but does not have any club benefits or privileges. These members may take tennis and golf lessons from pros utilizing the club facilities during such lessons only.

Absent Members – this category is for individuals who reside outside the region limits set by the club. With this status, the subscriber may only use the club facilities for up to 15 days annually with an exception of using dining facilities, pro shop purchases and taking lessons from tennis and golf pros.

Junior Member package a package designed for children under 16 to 23 years of age, with a precursor of their parents or grandparents being a Life, Resident, Honorary, Temporary or Social Member.

Army Navy Country Club membership overview

The club sprawls more than 500 acres with two locations in Arlington and Fairfax, Virginia.

As for golf amenities, the club offers 54 holes, two locations, pro shop services, programs and a professional staff.

Offering one of the largest tennis facilities in the area, the club offers 14 outdoor Har-Tru HydroCourt lighted tennis courts, two outdoor Deco Turf II hard courts, eight outdoor USTA approved courts, a year-round indoor tennis center with six Deco Turf II hard courts, a full service pro shop, on-site locker rooms and practice court/walls.  The club also offers programs, clinics, tournaments and a professional staff.

The Army Navy Fitness Center, offering 4,000 square feet of cardiovascular and strength training equipment, offers a full-service locker room, free weights, personal training, fitness assessments, group fitness classes, massage therapy and more.

Both the Arlington and Fairfax campus offers aquatic options.  The Arlington campus offers an ‘L’ shaped 50-meter Olympic pool, youth pool, beachfront to wading pool and heated adult-only pool.  The Fairfax campus offers a ‘Z’ shaped pool with diving well, lap lanes, play area and a beachfront to the wading pool.  The Aquatics department also offers a variety of competitive and instructional programs.

Dining options depend on the location.  in Arlington, the club offers five options:  the Sun Room, Grille, 1924, Stars and Stripes Cafe and the Dive Inn.  At the Fairfax location, they offer three options:  the Grille, Patio and the Pavilion.  You can read more about their course offering and a description here.  Both Clubhouses offer year-round social events, ranging from Sunday Brunches to various holiday parties.

Other amenities and services include locker rooms, shower facilities, saunas, steam rooms, conference room services, a shoe shine service and complimentary WiFi.

What are the extra costs?

Programs, clinics and private lessons are an additional cost to budget for.

Private personal training sessions are an additional cost to budget for.

Tips to know

The club abides by a strict dress code and cell phone policy.

How Much Does a Birmingham Country Club Membership Cost?

The Country Club of Birmingham is a first-class, friendly family country club located in the Birmingham, Michigan.

The club was formed in 1898 to offer its members social and recreational services.

How much does a Birmingham Country Club membership cost?

The club has different levels of membership, and the cost depends on the level you sign up for.  On average, the initiation fees are about $60,000 and the annual dues are around $6,600 from the costs Crain’s Detroit Business stated.

The membership options

Corporate – Corporate and individual members are afforded all amenities at the club, including the golf course, fitness center, swimming pool, racquet center and dining access.  Members also receive a share of stock into ownership at the club, offering the ability to vote on all issues.

Social – Social members are allowed full use of all dining options and all banquet facilities at the Clubhouse.  Members also have the privilege to use the pool, fitness and racquet facilities.  Golfing privileges are available but only three times a month.

Under 40 – Designed for members ages 26 to 39 years old, and this membership allows a member to make annual payments toward the corporate membership as per the club.  Under 40 members receive the same inclusions as corporate members but will receive a discounted rate of monthly dues and minimums.  Under 40 members are granted full club access.

Intermediate – This membership class is reserved for the children of the Life, Associate or Corporate membership, and the details will vary with the age.

Birmingham Country Club membership overview

An 18-hole Championship golf course, which was designed by Thomas Bendelow in 1916.  A Pro Shop on site is also available.

Its pool facilities include a six-lane, 24-meter competition-like pool with a 1-meter diving board, shallow play area and expansive decking area to enjoy the sun.  Swim programs are available for those ages five to 18 years old.

Located on the 13th hold, near the Clubhouse entrance, the club offers a Racquet Complex, complete with four paddle courts, two clay courts and four asphalt courts.  Tennis and assistant pros are available for all ages.  A full-service tennis shop is available as well.

A fitness facility offering state-of-the-art training cardio/strength equipment, personal trainers, locker rooms, towels

As for dining, the club offers four options:  upscale dining inside the Club Room, outdoor summer dining on the Patio, casual family dining inside of the Founders Pub or an adults-only dining option at The Maguire.

Throughout the year, clubs offer social events for all members.  According to their official website, this includes themed golf scrambles, a Father’s Day pool party or a Halloween costume party to name a few.

What are the extra costs?

A food and beverage minimum, as with any club, is in effect; however, at this time, we don’t know the exact specifics.

Private lessons and clinics can be an additional cost to budget for.  The same can be said about programs for those under 18 years old.

Tips to know

The club has a pinch less than 600 members and most live within five miles of the club.  There may or may not be a waiting list at the time of applying.

How Much Does an Atlantic Club Membership Cost?

The Atlantic Club, offering two locations, opened in 1977 and is an active fitness and wellness center with year-round facilities and a host of affordable, value-packed membership plans designed to attract members of all ages.

300/365: Becoming a Yogi by bradleypjohnson, on Flickr
300/365: Becoming a Yogi” (CC BY 2.0) by bradleypjohnson

How much does an Atlantic Club membership cost?

The cost of an individual membership, depending on the current promotion, from what we researched, is about $110 to $150 a month for an individual.  If you were to add a child to the membership, essentially making it a family membership, it can cost an additional $50 to $70 per month, depending on the type of membership you have.  In some cases, there’s an enrollment fee, which is often less than $100, but for the most part, members did claim they were able to get this waived with some haggling.

One member on this Yelp.com review for the Manasquan location, for example, stated that she paid $110 per month for his gym membership.  Two other members also said they had paid $110 a month for their membership.

The Corporate membership, according to this flyer from Monmouth University is $104 a month.

Atlantic Club membership overview

The fees mentioned above offers you access to both the Manasquan and Red Bank location.  The Manasquan location is located on 44 acres, which includes a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, two tennis centers, racquetball courts, a gym, basketball court, summer camp options and spa.  The Red Bank location offers an indoor pool, childcare and a spa.

Both locations offer free weights, cardio equipment, 125+ group exercise classes, yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, ride and circuit training classes, Jacuzzi, steam room, a sauna, free towels, basketball courts, heavy bags and speed bags.  To see what kind of classes are available right now, refer to the official Atlantic Club class schedule.  You don’t have to be a member to view the active classes.

All members receive 10 guest passes per the calendar year.

Other amenities include top-level athletic training at the Parisi Speed School, preparatory school curriculum at Atlantis Prep, social events, and tennis and aquatic programs.

What are the extra costs?

Personal training sessions are said to be $65 per 60-minute session, or, if you purchase in bulk, it can cost close to $375 for six sessions, for example.

Private tennis and/or swim lessons are an additional cost.

Summer camp options can be an additional cost.

How can I save money?

Be on the lookout for special promotions before signing up for a membership.  For instance, at the time of this writing, the gym was offering a $0 enrollment fee.  Many gyms like to advertise on Groupon.com, for example, to encourage new members to check them out.

The club does offer a free three-day membership with no obligation to join.  Talk to the gym for more information if you’re a first-time visitor.

As New Jersey is a very competitive gym market, be sure to compare rates with competing gyms to see which one suits your needs and offers the best rates.

How Much Does a Boulder Country Club Membership Cost?

The Boulder Country Club is a renowned country club that offers all the perks and pleasures that come with a world-class recreation facility.

The club has a long history that goes back to the early 1900s when it was initially set up in Boulder, Colorado.

Over the years, this country club has evolved and can now boast of some of the most sophisticated facilities that its members can enjoy.

How much does a membership at the Boulder Country Club cost?

The Boulder Country Club membership cost greatly varies depending on the type of membership.   From our research, the initiation fees for a full golf membership is close to $38,500 and the monthly dues are close to $551 a month.  The costs of a Par 3 or social membership will be much less than this. At this time, there may be a waiting list.  These prices are according to the official Colorado Private Club Guide as seen here.

The membership options

Social – Dining and social events, weight room access, swimming pools, complimentary group exercise, tennis, massage services and physical therapy sessions.

Par 3 – All of the inclusions in the social membership, and access to the Par 3 golf course, golf practice areas, adult golf clinics and junior golf program.

Full Golf – All of the inclusions in the social and Par 3 membership, and access to the 18-hole golf course and tournaments.

Boulder Country Club overview

Golf cour facilities include the 18-hole golf course, 9-hole Par 3 course, a 20 station driving range, four chipping greens, three practice bunkers and two putting greens.

Aside from the golf course and facilities, they also offer professional services, including access to tournament events, leagues, merchandise, professional lessons, locker rooms, club storage and a handicap service.

Beyond the golf course, the club also offers three indoor tennis courts, four outdoor tennis courts, a strength training area, a 25-yard indoor pool, 25-meter outdoor pool and multiple dining options.

What are the extra costs?

As stated above, you will have to renew your membership each year.  These costs, as with any country club, can increase over time.

Food and beverages are going to be considered additional costs.  Most clubs do have a minimum food and beverage minimum, but at this time, we do not know these fees.

Bringing an additional guest to play the course could be an additional cost as you will have to pay guest fees.

Clinics, social events, private lessons and summer camps will be an additional cost.

If your membership doesn’t include additional amenities, such as swimming, additional fees will be applied if you want to take advantage of the activity.

Tips to know

There is a dress code as stated on the official website.  Be sure to know what you can and can’t wear in the clubhouse and on the course before arriving.

How Much Does it Cost to Build a Bocce Ball Court?

 

Reach Bocce Ball Court by Key West Wedding Photography, on Flickr
Reach Bocce Ball Court” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Key West Wedding Photography

How much does it cost to build a bocce ball court?

The costs of building a bocce ball court will depend on the contractor, the location of the court, the size of the court, the type of materials to build the court, the features needed, the geographical location and complexity of the job.  From what we researched, the costs of a professional bocce ball court, when a professional is hired, can cost $17 to $27 a square foot, but if you were to do a DIY job, the costs could be as little as $6 to $11+ a square foot depending on the materials being used.  When hiring a professional contractor with experience, don’t be surprised if your total costs range anywhere from $10,000 to $35,000+

Since all jobs will be so unique, we highly recommend HomeAdvisor.com to find licensed contractors in your area who are able to offer you an exact quote based on your ideas.

According to the Bocce Builders of America, they work all over the world, and their prices, according to their official website, depends on the type of court construction and the surface chosen.  The excavation, the depth of the drain field and access to the court to haul off materials can affect the costs as well.  In the end, surfaces, if you were to hire them, would start at $18.50 a square foot and the total installation job, when everything is factored in, can cost $20,000 to $50,000.

This ABC News article talked with a professional contractor who designs and builds bocce ball courts, and he said you should be prepared to spend $7 a square foot for a DIY job to as much as $25 per square foot when the landscaping and professional contractor fees are paid.

Houzz notes the cost can be based on the complications and design, with most contractors charging more than $20,000.

Building a bocce ball court

Courts, when constructed, will use a combination of rocks and a top coat made of either crushed oyster shells, tennis court clay, sand, crushed stone or turf, according to HGTV.  All courts, regardless of the size and where it’s built, will have some sort of drainage system, a perimeter and a weed cloth installed within the coat to prevent weeds from growing in the future.  Without the proper drainage and even the weed cloth, it can turn into a mucky, weedy mess in months.

With most jobs, the contractor will first start with the area you’re envisioning your bocce ball court, and depending on the area, he or she will either cut away the sod or haul away debris in order to level the area.  It’s essential this area is as level as possible as you don’t want the balls to randomly roll when playing the game.  Once leveled, the court will be measured out and marked with spray paint, and as we mention below, a regulation court isn’t recommended due to the size.  Most contractors will stick to a 10 by 60+ feet court.  The court, once measured and marked, will then be framed with a material of your choice, which is usually a synthetic wood since it’s durable to the elements and works great as a stronger side material as the ball bounces off it.  The best and most expensive framing option, however, is concrete. Once framed, the base rock will be installed, about three inches thick and it will then be tamped down with a compactor.  The next layer, a decomposed granite will be compacted and locked into place to create a stronger surface, and the last layer, an oyster shell powder will be applied one-inch inch thick to help increase the speed of the balls when rolled.  Aside from oyster shell powder, sand, stone dust, turf or tennis court clay can be used as an option as well.

What are the extra costs?

Once constructed, maintenance is fairly simple, only requiring a seven0inch drag broom and some standard garden tools to keep the court in tip-top shape.

A bocce scoreboard, depending on its construction, can cost $50 to $250+

Tips to know:

Experts highly advise building a regulation bocce ball court, which measures a whopping 91-by-13-feet.  Since most people are limited with their backyard size in most cases, contractors will recommend a smaller court that mimics a regulation size.  Typical backyard bocce ball courts will measure 10 by 60 feet.

How can I save money?

While a DIY job may sound scary, it isn’t as bad as you think.  This Home Depot blog post and this DIY Network guide shows you how you can build one in your backyard, even with limited experience.  If doing the job on your own, you should be able to find most of the materials locally; however, oyster shells and flour may need to be found elsewhere.

How Much Does a Bloodhound Cost?

With sunken eyes, a deeply furrowed face and loose jowls, Bloodhounds resemble a pet in dire need of a facelift.

The sad-eyed appearance is, however, quite misleading.

This is an adorable dog with a strong character and a sense of humor, traits balanced by a sensitive, reserved nature.

Also known as the St. Hubert Hound or the Flemish Hound, it’s considered to be a very old breed that originated in Belgium.

Bo close up by Doreeno, on Flickr
Bo close up” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Doreeno

How much does a Bloodhound cost?

The Bloodhound, as with all AKC dog breeds, will depend on the age, quality, its bloodline, the seller, geographical location of the seller and the inclusions.  The average, price, from our research, can range from as little as $350 to more than $1,000+

On PuppyFind.com, for example, they had close to 200 active listings, with the prices for a Bloodhound puppy ranging from as little as $350 to more than $1,100.

Most of the listings we found on the official AKC website ranged anywhere from $650 to $1,100.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

While all breeders vary with their inclusions, a reputable seller, at a minimum, should include all registration paperwork, up-to-date vaccinations with proof, a veterinarian exam, a health certificate and a health guarantee.  If AKC certified, most AKC breeders will include the pedigree paperwork, a microchip and some will remove the dew claws.  Recommended health test clearances, while not always included, may include a cardiac exam, elbow evaluation and/or hip evaluation.  A good breeder will always prove the breed has been tested for various conditions.

What are the extra costs?

The dog, as with many breeds, is considered to be quite stubborn at a younger age.  At a minimum, consider basic obedience classes to teach it the basic commands and housebreaking techniques.

Its coat is short, hard and smooth to the touch, composed of fur only, with no outstanding hairs.  Common coat colors include red, live and red, or black and red.  A white Bloodhound, referred to a “Talbot Hound,” did exist during the Middle Ages.

Don’t forget the recurring costs.  This will include the dog food, accessories/toys, startup supplies if you never owned a dog before and the routine/surprise vet visits.  A healthy dog can easily cost more than $50 a month, while a dog in need of a surprise surgery could cost much more.

Tips to know

At its peak, a Bloodhound can measure 22 to 28 inches and weigh more than 80 to 115 pounds.  They are known to be extremely strong and large in size, known for its trademark long muzzle, droopy-like ears and loose skin.  Females, on average, will measure and weigh about 10 percent less.

The Bloodhound can live 10 to 12 years when in captivity.

At times, the Bloodhound can be deemed “lazy,” but this often isn’t the case.  They do require a lot of exercise and can walk for hours, meaning they probably won’t be suitable in an apartment-like atmosphere if you’re unable to offer them the attention they need.  Owners often take their dogs hunting, on hikes or for a stroll around the block.

The breed requires minimal brushing and the ears should be periodically cleaned to avoid an ear infection.  The folded skin should be cleaned as well and bathing should only be done when necessary.

The Bloodhound loves attention, whether it comes from well-behaved children or other adults.  They can be attentive, however, they won’t be aggressive when around strangers.  When in their comfort zone, they tend to be affectionate, relaxed, independent, caring and kind.  In general, they tend to be quiet, but can loudly bark when startled.

The University of Illinois created a great guide talking about why the Bloodhound isn’t for everyone.  In general, they are known to drool a lot, they don’t live as long when compared to other breeds and they can be very hard to train in some circumstances.  Lastly, not great in terms of “street sense,” the Bloodhound, when on the loose, follow the world by their scent, meaning they can be very curious above new smells, which can lead to them to who knows where.

The Bloodhound is considered to be a very healthy breed, but as with all dog breeds, they are prone to the following health conditions as per DogTime.com:  hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, ectropion, entropion, epilepsy, fold dermatitis and gastric dilatation-volvulus.

How can I save money?

Highly consider adopting from a local rescue organization or a shelter.  Buying from breeder, regardless of their ethics or background, is never a good idea as they are often in it for the money.  The world doesn’t need more dogs or cats, as you probably know, so why keep these breeders in business?  Adopting is a great way to help a dog in need and can help an organization that can really use the funds.  To find a reputable rescue group, we recommend this directory on the American Bloodhound Club’s official website.  Even if you’re unable to find a true Bloodhound, you could find a mix such as a Bloodhound Beagle, Mastiff or Husky mix, for example.

How Much Does a Bison Cost?

The American bison, also commonly called the American buffalo, is a bison species that is native to the North America grasslands.  They once roamed in these grasslands in massive herds and became nearly extinct by a combination of commercial hunting and slaughter in the 19th century and introduction of bovine diseases from domestic cattle. However, this species has made a recent resurgence, which is largely restricted to a small number of national parks and reserves.

bison by Royalty-free image collection, on Flickr
bison” (CC BY 2.0) by Royalty-free image collection

How much does a live bison cost?

The cost of a live bison, as with any livestock, will depend on the geographical location, the market conditions, class and its weight.  With these factors, we can provide an estimate, which we outlined in our table below:

ClassTotal Average Price PaidAverage Price Per Pound (Live)
Heifer Calf (heavy cut)$2,250$5
Heifer Calf (light cut)$2,220$5.50
Bull Calf (heavy cut)$2,000$5
Bull Calf (light cut)$2,250$5.30
Yearling Heifer$2,150$3.75
Yearling Bull$2,500$3.95
Mature Cow (bred)$3,500$2.75
Mature Cow (open)$2,500$2.50
2 Year Bull$3,700$3.50
2 Year Bull (breeding)$3,200$2.90

NOTE:  These were average based on auction averages in 2017.   Remember, these averages can greatly vary from the factors mentioned above.

The National Bison Association keeps track of live auctions by following the animal auction results on this page.

According to the National Bison Range, based in Montana, its surplus bison sold for $1,750 on for yearling males and $2,000 for two-year-old males in 2017, according to this PDF.

The Rapid City Journal, even though the article is a few years old, listed the prices of a previous auction, with prices quite close to our averages in the table above.  The averages for a yearling heifer that year was $2,117, whereas a bull calf averaged $1,919.  One bull, in particular, sold for $12,000, according to the newspaper.

What are the extra costs?

Bison, unlike cows, require less hands-on management since they have survived without man for centuries.  Bisons, at a minimum, will require grass to graze, accessible clean water, a secure fence, herd companionship, a handling facility and preventative health program.  Ranchers recommend about 10 acres of grass for every one cow-calf pair, and the fencing set up, at a minimum, should be at least six feet high.  As for vet costs, bison will need to be vaccinated and dewormed annually.

The typical day rates, according to BisonCentre.com, is $0.60 to $1.30 per day for younger bison and $1.20 to $2 for a mature bull.  To budget, when factoring in these costs, it’s best to budget close to $2 per day, and this should cover your vet care, feed and other related tasks.

To get started, bison require companionship, which often means purchasing five to 15 bison at once.  This could equate to as much as $10,000 to $20,000+ for the animals alone.

Susceptible to the many diseases cattle are prone to, ranchers, at a minimum, will always vaccine and will create a routine deworming program.

Tips to know

Federal regulations require all meat to be growth-hormone and antibiotic free.

A three-ounce service of bison has 93 calories, 1.8 grams of fat and 43 milligrams of cholesterol.

According to Penn State University, raising bison, when compared to cattle, is similar; however, bison are larger, stronger and more excitable, which means they will require stronger fencing and handling facilities.

Always check your state laws in regards to liability and trespassing as it will draw the attention of the public.  In most states, bison being raised for agricultural purposes will fall under the same category as cattle, but when slaughtered, it may fall under the same regulations as exotic animals.

Mature cows, on average, can weigh 1,000 to 1,500 pounds, reaching physical maturity at eight to 10 years.  With good management, they can live as long as 30 years.

Some people often wonder what bison tastes like.  In comparison to beef, it’s known to taste slightly sweeter and more tender.

The bison versus the buffalo

In comparison to the buffalo, the bison and the buffalo are the two names we have become accustomed to in the United States, according to NorthforkBison.com.  There are two subspecies of bison in North America:  the Plains Bison, which primarily resides in the United States and Canada, and the Wood Bison, which can primarily be found in Canada.   These two look different from each other, but the bison, in the end, isn’t a true buffalo in scientific terms.  The only “true” buffalo in the world include the African Cape and Asian Water buffalo.  In the end, ranchers refer to their meat as “bison” to make sure the customer knows they are receiving bison, not a water buffalo.  The American bison lives only in North America, while the two main buffalo species, as mentioned, live in Africa and Asia.

Bison can forage for its food in the winter by “ploughing” their heads through the snow to access the grass beneath it.  However, if there is no grass available, they can starve, but to avoid this, ranchers will often offer standing hay to throughout the colder months as it holds similar nutritional values.

How can I save money?

Some auctions or farmers often sell bull calves in groups, which can decrease the costs if you wanted to purchase more than one at once.

How Much Does an Exogen Bone Healing System Cost?

An exogen bone stimulator is a bone healing treatment that is non-invasive, using low-intensity ultrasound pulses toward a fractured area.

It is considered to be a painless, effective and safe procedure that hastens the natural healing process of a fractured bone.

Commonly used for repairing fractures that can’t be healed naturally, the treatment lasts for a few months or until the fracture has visible signs of healing.

Exogen 4000 37 by Stacyz76, on Flickr
Exogen 4000 37” (CC BY 2.0) by Stacyz76

How much does an Exogen bone healing system cost?

On average, the costs vary depending on the retailer and the version. The costs, from what we researched, could be anywhere from $180 to $600 for a slightly used device on eBay to as much as $3,000+ for a new unit.  These are prices for those who don’t have health insurance.  These are the costs for the unit alone and will not include the costs associated with future treatment options if necessary.

A bone stimulator may be covered by your insurance as long as their documentation of the non-union fracture for more than 90 days.  Check with your insurance company to see if they do cover, and if so, what you will be responsible for in terms of payments.

The company, according to this PDF, the Exogen product unit can cost $2,950 on average, but according to this member on Reddit.com, he was quoted $5,000 for his new unit.

As for slightly used models, the costs can range from $200 to $350, according to these active eBay listings.

Exogen bone healing system overview

The EXOGEN Ultrasound Bone Healing System is an FDA-approved, clinically tested device that uses painless ultrasound waves near the site of your break to help activate the cells.  These waves stimulate your body’s healing cells, which, in turn, speed up the natural repair process.

What are the extra costs?

The cost estimates above are for the unit only.  In case of failure, the same PDF sourced earlier noted you should be prepared to pay close to $25,000 without insurance for a surgical procedure to increase your probability of success.

Aside from the possibility of surgery, you should also budget for the initial consultations, x-rays and follow-up visits.  All situations are unique, so your additional costs will greatly vary.

A battery for the device, which has been known to be replaced through its life, can cost $30 to $50 each.

Tips to know

The bone healing system, in order to receive one, is only available by prescription from either a physician or surgeon who can determine if the device is right for your situation.

Treatments are only 20 minutes per day and patients are encouraged to download the EXOGEN CONNECTS smartphone app — an app which allows you to help use the device consistently as prescribed.  It sends reminders and helpful information when using it daily.

Exogen has been said to demonstrate an 86 percent heal rate for non-union fractures and may help reduce the necessity of non-union surgeries.  It has also been noted to speed the healing of indicated fresh fractures.

The FDA has approved the device to be used for up to 180 days.  After the time is up, an error code, often displaying “no treatment remaining” will display, preventing it from using it for safety purposes.  The company also doesn’t want you to use it on new fractures that may have occurred.

In 2009, there was an Exogen 4000 recall, according to the FDA.

How can I save money?

The manufacturer claims that their unit may help you save as much as $15,000 per case as it can help reduce costs associated with outpatient care, surgery and other related device costs.

As one of the many name branded bone stimulators on the market, be sure to compare other options from Biomet, OrthoPak, EBI, Orthofix and DJ Orthopedics.

While used units can be found on eBay, people recommend avoiding doing so as they are not considered to be reusable and once activated, they only work for a limited amount of time.  As mentioned above, you will more than likely experience an error code when using.  According to someone who has used one in the past, they are only good for six months once activated, but this hasn’t been confirmed.

Some medical supply companies may offer the device for rent.  The companies we researched often started their rates at $375 per three months or 90 uses.

How Much Do Birthday Cakes Cost at Walmart?

Birthday cakes available at Walmart come in various shapes, styles, designs and flavors, and ordering a cake is often the most convenient ways to reduce your worries when preparing for a birthday party.

Happy Birthday, Chance! by trekkyandy, on Flickr
Happy Birthday, Chance!” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by trekkyandy

How much do birthday cakes at Walmart cost?

On average, the costs differ based on stores, geographical location, flavors, kind of cake and decorations.

On average, the cost of a Walmart birthday cake will depend on the size, the design chosen and your local store.  From our research at a local Walmart, the costs, on average, could range anywhere from $15 to $50 or more.  A typical half sheet cake will cost about $25, while a larger ice cream cake could cost a pinch more than $30.   A decorated full sheet cake will cost about $40.

Refer to our table below to see what our local Walmart quoted us.

SizeServesPrice Range
Full Sheet96$45
1/2 Sheet48$30
1/4 Sheet24$20
1/8 Sheet12$10
8-inch Round Single Layer8$8
8-inch Round Double Layer8$15
24-count Cupcake Cake24$20

According to one member on this Babycenter.com forum thread, she said she had paid $25 for her half chocolate, half vanilla sheet cake that included a character.

A forum member on this CakeCentral.com forum thread claimed that their local Walmart quoted her customer $38 for a cake that could feed up to 96 people.

Walmart birthday cakes overview

Walmart offers the following cake types/sizes:  sheet (full, 1/4, 1/2 and 1/8), round (six- or eight-inch single or double layer), cupcake cake (24 cupcakes), cookie cake (single or double layer) and a multi-tier cake (two to three tiers).  Each of these types can offer its own sizing as expressed within the parenthesis.

Flavors, depending on the type of cake you do choose, can include white, chocolate, yellow, marble, tres leches and chocolate chip.

Icing flavor options include white, chocolate, color, whipped or but-r-creme.

Filling options are available, depending on the cake and options include strawberry and Bavarian.

All Walmart bakeries offer hundreds of designs to choose from, ranging from 50+ licensed characters (Marvel, Star Wars, Disney, Nintendo, DreamWorks and more) to simplistic birthday designs for a first birthday, quinceanera, sweet 16, 21st, 30th, 40th, 50th, 60th and over the hill birthday.  You can follow this link to see which designs are available at your local location.

What are the extra costs?

Additional characters and birthday candles will be an additional cost to consider.  Often, when adding any additional decorations and/or specialty characters, it can add another $3 to $6 on average.

Tips to know

To order, simply download this ordering form from their official website and fill it out to place your order.  You can also visit a local Walmart bakery and the employees can help guide you through the process as well.

Walmart will decorate and write a name on the cake for free.

Walmart does ask you to place your order at least 24 hours in advance.

Delivery is not an option as all cakes must be picked up.

How can I save money?

Consider purchasing discounted gift cards for Walmart on Raise.com to help you save a few dollars on your next purchase.

As most grocery stores can create birthday cakes, be sure to compare your options at other retailers.

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