Oklahoma Preppers Network

I Hate Commercials

2011-11-19T19:27:00.000-08:00

From: Salty Dawg
ThePiratesRepublic.com
(Warning Salty is Grumpy)

Third party commercials are annoying interruption to my thought process. Although, some would say that they are necessary to our free market society. I must agree because word of mouth ain’t what it used to be. I am not talking about the commercials that sell us our goods and services. I am not even talking about the commercials that sell “Snuggies” and “Sham-WoW’s”. Many would say they are annoying but still necessary.

I am particularly irritated by the third party commercials that are brought to you with false pretences. Just like those that are starting to plague many of the Preparedness sites in which I read in search of teachable content. Let me give you an example. For some time now I have railed against prognosticating doom sayers that are only in the game to line their own pockets.

Purveying fear and panic for the sake of making a buck should be combated by speaking out about it and calling it what it is. You might ask me if I believe the world is changing and of course the answer is yes and it is my belief in many cases not for the better. At the Pirates Republic we believe we should prepare for the events that we may face throughout our lives. Gas, food, transportation cost are climbing. The middle class is disappearing, our schools are indoctrinating our children and the government is intruding on our rights at an alarming rate but that is another article.

This rant is directed solely at the people who claim they have the prepping community at heart when truly their main intent is to whore themselves out to any and all comers for penny’s per click or affiliate commission on whatever they can redirect you to. Third party sites trying to sell you products by exacerbating fear and evoking panic so you will feel compelled to purchase whatever product they are hocking at the moment. Cause if you don’t buy it then surely your family will die by morning! FOOLS!

For example, I use to recommend a particular web site because in the beginning the content was valuable and since we primarily instruct people on staying put during an emergency situation and maximize their chances of survival by staying in place. We also teach the skills of bugging out but for many people this is just not practical for them to maintain a double secret location fully stocked with all the necessary items for what they and their family to survive in an apocalyptic event. We teach “Survival in Place” and the content was well presented and much better written than I possess the talent to accomplish. So I would send people over to the site to start a conversation about the content and teach upon that content.

Then we move forward in time and the owner started another web site, then another, then another all linked together and of course you could join by signing up for the newsletter or spend money and join the secret society to help you be prepared. Now this guy has product of his own and to be honest I still recommend one product he offers but can’t in good conscience recommend people to buy it because they will get inundated by third party crap! Remember, I have zero problems with folks promoting the services or products they use and recommend. But the third party solicitations are out of hand and muddy up the informational waters!

On average from this one site after signing up for the newsletter I used to get one or two informational email from him and life was good. However, since he has branched out into multiple web sites I now get on average 8 out of 10 emails promoting third party crap. He recommends videos that I must watch in order to protect my family and finances from impending doom. He recommends that I must click this link in order to read about some guy who knows the stock market is failing and gold is your only bet for salvation. He recommends that I click this link in order to get food preps that are so special that I must buy them now and this is a special offer given to only his readers if you buy now. Of course anybody else could get this “deal” even if they stumbled onto the third party site by accident! You get the point. Well Mr. Morris I do not have to do anything but to keep on preparing myself, my family and my community from what undoubtedly is coming.

I also believe it is also our responsibility to teach the willing regardless of money. This is something people should take note about instead of prostituting themselves out to anybody to who has some snake oil to sell to cure whatever you got. Instead how about you give way to the integrity you initially started your web site adventure with??? Examples you ask???? Oh I have examples and they can be considered recommendations that I won’t get a penny for. Bear Grylls, Dave Canteberry and the bare foot hippie had programs that I personally had very little reason to watch. I figured they had value in the entertainment industry but held little value for the programs until it inspired discussions and debate on their actions during the program. None of the people prostituted themselves out to 3rd party panic profiteers even though they all have web sites and newsletters. Bear Grylls partnered with the Gerber Company and lent his name to some of their survival products. I have used them and still to this day. Dave Canterbury has the Pathfinder schools. I have not been through the school but it comes with high recommendations by attendees if you can afford it. He also partners with Blind Horse Knives and those are quality tools that if you can afford it well made quality product.

Web sites like the American Preppers Network Provides an arena for forums and information exchanges. I do not always agree with the contributor’s ideas but it still promotes thought and does not pander to panic. In fact most every article is a solution based, fact filled article that should make you think about how to adapt the information to your situation. It also breaks down into state networks and they also have forums and articles to read. It is a treasure trove of good information and it is interactive. You can ask questions and there are plenty of people who offer good sound advice or at the very least their opinions. I enjoy reading the postings by The Idaho Prepper and other state contributors. Although I am a diehard Notre Dame fan I enjoy reading articles from the Wolverine talking about his amigos the toolman and tonto. Since I live in God’s Country and in a different climate than he, I am able to read about different perspectives of how they prepare for what is to come.

How about the Survival Blog? This guy has some incredible information on a wide array of topics from sprouting (yuck) to living off the grid. Not everything applies to my situation but interesting and thought provoking none the less.

Speaking about living off the grid take a look at Pioneeerliving.net now I admit I am biased about this site because he resides in God’s country but there is a lot of insight on what you can do as a Prepper right now and for the future. He even has advice on the gold market and I wasn’t asked to watch a video! He formed his own opinion with facts and then presented his opinion to his readership and let them decide without fear mongering. I can site many more examples like Natural News they have several article that are topical for today I don’t always agree with the outlandish stuff but they have passion
.
The Preparedness Pro she offers well thought out great written articles and yes she sells her services and expertise on Coupons.

The Berkey guy contributes several articles that are worth a look I learned about fluoride and 1 part per million found in nature and Preparedness Radio has Podcast as well as live call in shows that are full of information sign up FOR FREE and download podcast FOR FREE and you can hear a variety of opinions and facts from many people that are in the preparedness community.

There are a bunch of others I haven’t listed that provide useful information instead of littering the Prepping community with garbage that they deem useful as long as there is a kick back to them!

I have not taken pleasure in calling out a prepping site for its uselessness because people have their own opinions about what is useful and mine is not always perfect (I know Right?) . I just get furious when we the Prepping Community have to endure this plague we have been inundated with as of late.

I have used one particular site to show the progression that these types of sites use. Fear mongering and preying on the new Preppers is their means to a greedy end regardless the damage they inflict. Preppers should look out for the sites that serve their own ends rather than the good of the community of knowledge seekers. I only used this site as my example because I believed this site to be honorable and after many attempts to contact the creator to return to being relevant. The only reply I got from the sites creator was another solicitation to join another paid membership society created by the same person.

Again, I do not enjoy calling anybody out for being less than is expected of them but our motto at the Pirates Republic is “Evil flourishes when good men do nothing” and silence is nothing. Thank you for allowing me to rant. I am going sit down and have some milk and cookies and read another article from the American Preppers network it seems that Wolverine (Go Irish) and the Idaho Prepper just posted again.
Signed

The GRUMPY Dawg
AKA Salty Dawg
The Pirates Republic.com

The Record Heat Waves

2011-07-22T14:16:00.003-07:00

With the record heat waves and drought across the nation, the American Preppers Network hopes that you have been prepared. Disasters of any type can and do happen anywhere, at anytime, and without warning. We are now witnessing and will continue to witness a prime example of how one disaster can cause a chain reaction leading to other disasters. Here are some potential disasters to be aware of as a result of the drought and heat waves.

1) Water shortages. Water is the number 1 most important necessity to survival. The average human can only survive 3 days without water, and even less in a heat wave. I hope you've stored some. If the water system shuts down or does not have enough, you could turn on the tap only to have a few drips. If you run into a situation where there is not enough municipal water supply to your home, start looking for other sources of stored water.

Your hot water tank may have 30 - 50 gallons of water stored.
The top supply tank to your toilette is typically clean water that you can use.
Your plumbing in your house could have a few gallons. Open a higher faucet in your house as in a shower, sink, or upstairs source to relieve pressure, then open a lower outside faucet to retrieve water from your plumbing system.

Don't short change yourself on water! Make sure you have plenty for personal consumption. If you stop sweating, that means you are dehydrated!

Got Water?

2) Heat. Heat poses many risks, including but not limited to:

Heat Stroke. Watch family members closely, especially the elderly, watch for slurred speech and disorientation. When in doubt, call for help. Time lost is brain lost. Never leave pets or children in a vehicle, and keep them out of the direct sun. Drink lots of water.
Fire. Fires are much more common in the heat. Things dry out and become more flammable. Keep dry brush and trash picked up. Do not store fuel in or around your house, and keep well ventilated in a cool area out of the sun. Keep grass cut short, especially if your city is rationing water and not allowing watering of lawns. Do not store any flammables in the direct sun or in your attic.
Vehicle breakdowns. Avoid driving unless it's absolutely necessary, or drive at nite. Check your fluid levels and make sure your oil and coolant are topped off. Bring extra oil and coolant with you in case you need it. DO NOT top off your fuel tank! Make sure your tires are property inflated and not over or under inflated. Bring extra water with you in case you do break down. Drive with the A/C off when going uphill. Watch your vehicles tempature when climbing grades. If your car starts to overheat when going uphill, pull over at a safe location to let it cool. Check to make sure your thermostat is working before you make your trip.

3) Blackouts. The nations grids are maxed out. With everyone using A/C, expect rolling blackouts. If you are in a blackout, you can wrap sleeping bags around your refrigerator or freezer to help insulate it. To conserve power, only use what you absolutely need. Keep lights turned off and keep your A/C set to the warmest temperature that you can safely stand. Do you have a generator? Be prepared to use it. Do you have plenty of non-perishable food stored? If there is an extended blackout, you may need it. Stores and gas stations will be shut down in a blackout. Do you have an emergency battery powered radio and flashlights?

4) Food Prices Expect food prices to increase. Especially meat. Many ranchers are butchering all of there livestock as there is not enough food and water to care for them, this means shortages in the future. Produce crops are drying up. Prices of corn, wheat and other grains will increase. Even produce grown in unaffected areas may increase in price as well due to demand. If the blackouts are too severe, stores, gas stations and truck stops may close down temporarily disrupting the supply chain and preventing food from making it to the stores.

Stay safe during this heat wave and dought. This is a serious and potentially devastating national disaster.

If you have tips, ideas, news, videos or pictures that you wish to share regarding this heat wave you can submit your article to americanprepper@yahoo.com. If your article is chosen we will post it on your states preppers network blog. Top articles will get posted on APN. The top article of the week will win a free flashlantern valued at $49.95 (made in the USA). Articles must be submitted before 7/29.

Feel free to copy and repost this article in it's entirety. Credit source as AmericanPreppersNetwork.com

Here are some free helpful pdf files to download

Fire and Heat Waves
- ARC - Are You Ready - Fire

- ARC - Are You Ready - Heat Wave

- ARC - Are You Ready - Wildfires

- Fact Sheet: Fires

- Fact Sheet: Fire Safe

- WildFires

Water
- ARC - Food and Water in Emergency

- Emergency Disinfection of Drinking Water

- How To Make A Solar Still (Plastic Cover)

- Purification Of Water On A Small Scale

- Simple Solar Still For The Production Of Distilled Water

- Slow Sand Filters

- Water Purification

- Water Treatment

Fire Safety

- Fighting Fire

- Fire Safety

Get More Free Downloads here:
http://preppers.info/Free_Downloads.html

2011-07-21T11:46:00.001-07:00

Preparedness 101

3 part lesson

Phase 2

Physical Preparation

This phase is in my opinion is where the wheat gets separated from the chaff because in the cerebral phase although you have to think there are many things that can help you. In the Cerebral phase many people get mired down by paralyzation through analization in which I will be writting about soon. however, getting beyond the Thought process we get to the Action. In the Physical Preperation phase you have to actually do something! There are not magical Prepping fairies to bippidy boppidy boo your Prepping heaven into existence nor can you just will It into being. Much like Noah and a few supporters, you are on your own kid.

You can reach out to the other like minded people within the prepping community to lend a hand and you will reciprocate I am sure! Use the community for help but for the most part you are going to have to actually physically do something and that my friends is where the "Sheep" shine!!!! The Sheople will be glad to stand by and watch. They will be anti-encouraging telling you there is no sense in what you are doing and it is an exercise in futility. If the big boom happens they would just as soon go out with the bang. The Pirates Republic call them the Sheople or Naysayers. The very same Sheep that will come knocking at your door for a handout at the first sign of any trouble or anything that will rock their little worlds they will look to you to set it upright.

Physical Prepping is the place where you will put into action your thoughts. Once you have cleared the cobb webs from head with the onslaught of advice from the "experts". You will finally settle down and start processing the vast amounts of information and start working on a plan. a plan of what and who you are prepping for. Think about where you are going and what you need to get there. Remember you are building on the cerebral phase using it as a foundation for the next phase. The first thing Pepper's have to do to begin the next phase of physical is develop a plan. This plan will be the starting point of your roadmap. Even though you will and should put a lot of conceptual thought into your plan, you will undoubtably make mistakes! Everyone does so dont be discouraged just keep moving forward with the absolute certainty in what you are doing, not arrogant just certainty and with purpose.

(Can you see how you transition from just thinking it into doing it, using one phase of the process to prop up the next. You will get stronger in your resolve. )

Your Plan will be and should be revisited often to revise the functionality of your plan. As your situations change so shall the plan. For example if you add members to your family then the plan should change accordingly. You start branching out into the Prepper network so shall the plan change as outlined in an article titled "assets to your inventory". This may sound like something rather difficult and you may at this point want to retreat back to the Cerebral phase to gather your thoughts, go ahead we can wait……………tick tock, tick tock……

Okay now for the reality check. The making of the plan is actually easier than it sounds. There are a ton of resources out in cyber land that is at your disposal. I suggest you take advantage of these resources. Not all Resources have a fee attached to them; in fact there is a ton of good quality information out there that the only cost associated with them is your time. We offer many a mate council and opinions just for the asking.

I suppose for some it does comes down to time if you want to put in the effort to develop your own plan through the research and advice of trusted people then the rewards are many and the knowledge is a valuable.

There are many plans out there that will guide you through the processes. There are "72 hour kits", "Every Day Carry Bags", "get out of dodge bags", "Bug Out Bags" and "Get Home Bags" which I believe are the same but I guess it helps people sell more bags. There are gardening and storage devices products. We have Gun dealers and ammo suppliers, Clothing manufactures and of course Bag makers. There are people everywhere, some trying to pontificate and just selling fear. However, There are trustworthy merchants actually trying to help and provide a service and trying to make a living at it.

People write Magazines and Ezines and you can buy subscriptions to this and that. Stores are popping up all over the internet as well as your local towns. Apparently Prepping is the new trend for now. For some of us we have been doing this most of our lives we just didn't know it was cool and trendy until now. I wonder if Barbara Mandrell will right a "Peanuts in my Coke" song for us? it could go like this ...I put dehydrated food in my potable water.........hmmmm, maybe not, i think it has a good beat but you just cant dance to it. Well not to worry we will still be here after the new labels and the trendy crapola has faded, in fact we will probably be the ones they sell their "never been used" survival items at a ridiculously (everything must go) fire sale prices.

There are many plans that will suffice for your needs but remember all survival is based on shelter, food and water. First satisfy these immediate needs and you are moving in the right direction. Yes I said FOOD, you have to eat, WATER, you have to drink and SHELTER, you have to have a place to store your items as well as rest your little head, correct?

Making a plan can be fun, No really it can be fun. You should involve all the members that the plan will effect because they may have specific concerns that you may not immediately think about.

Guys do not think of all the necessary items that women may need likewise women may underestimate the necessity of a three stooges DVD (the complete collection of course) for the emotional well being of everyone. Laughter for all I say! Therefore let it be so!

yuk, yuk, yuk!

Hey MO,

why I oughta.

I know the dooms day folks are going to trash me and say "Well what if there is no electricity then what now funny guy"? My retort is you should have a power backup such as a solar charging station and a 12 volt T. V. complete with a built in DVD player which happens to fall under the necessities of any RV camper. Besides even if you choose not to have this type of back up then at least the covers are funny to look at and just think of the countless hours of you trying to explain to the women why you think the stooges are funny, yes hours of entertainment to be had by all.

Back to the plan! There should be a master plan that is broke down into several smaller "direct issue" type of plans. It's a little thing we like to call the "what if, then, else" game. For all you computer geeks out there stop chuckling. Here's how it goes take a scenario and play it through to fruition. For example in our area we are prone to tornado's which always cause quite a stir (pardon the pun) but, we can start with that scenario What if a tornado was coming straight at us? Then we will do? Else we will do?

This formula can be used to process any and all situations as well as program computers. What if an earthquake was to occur? Then we will do? (If that solution is not available) Else we will do? If we were caught in a wild fire, then we will do? Else we will do? Now taking it through to fruition what if the world collapsed as we know it? Then we will do? Else we will do? Sorry to get apocalyptic however I did mention it would work in every scenario.

This is a game that is meant to offer positive solution to negative scenarios.

The outcomes should be positive ones that are used to teach and reinforce the positive solutions that have been thought out in advance of the scenarios being played out in real life. If you need help making a plan please ask someone you may trust rather than just throwing your hands in the air and giving up.

If you question your solutions then by all means run them by a trusted source and get feedback that is why the Prepping community is important. The Pirates Republic helps people with their plans and you should do this as well. This is what a community is supposed to do!

I know there is a thirst for the knowledge and you just need to find the trusted sources to assist you on your quest and believe me when I say I strive to learn new things everyday and I believe everyone has the capability to teach me something. Those who have chosen to move past the ability to learn have already died they just haven't been made aware.

We can help each other with our plans then we can learn and grow together. Then maybe we can get our own TV show and parade around barefoot in the swamps and sell ourselves as survival experts or maybe not! Oh well it puts me right on track with the next phase namely Actual SURVIVAL.

My Beautiful and lovely Bride asked me to lay off the Rum References for ye land lubbers not knowing I be a teaser. so Where's me milk it's closing time?

I have never claimed to be an expert, just experienced. so as always if you have inquires or positive comments then drop us a scribe at saltydawg@thepiraatesrepublic.com

Salty Dawg

there need be a captain in thar somewhere Mate!

2011-07-12T17:31:00.001-07:00

Preparedness 101

3 part lesson

Phase 1

Cerebral Preparation

Alright so you have an interest in joining the ranks of the prepared. Good for you have a seat we have cookies. No matter the reason you have come to these decisions congratulations you are here.

The entry course to your new life long journey is called preparedness 101. It begins by assessing the need to prepare for the "what if's" in life. Many Prepare for the apocalypse and others prepare for more minor events that may occur in their local regions.

Regardless the reasons you have decided to take on this challenge we all started off the same way. Let me reiterate NOT ONE PERSON POPPED INTO THIS WORLD KNOWING HOW TO PREPARE AND HANDLE EVERY SITUATION regardless of what the so called experts hocking their goods WILL TRY TO CONVINCE YOU OF. Everyone started off right where you are right now. They had the benefit of knowledge and someone passing that knowledge onto them to enable them to be in the position they are in currently.

Through the years our first teachers were our parents or care givers. Advanced skills were learned through hands on instruction and then taught to those who wish to learn those skills. This is how it is supposed to be its called passing on the knowledge, teaching, genetic instruction, the nature of things, the circle of life, hakuna matata!

I believe there are solid foundation blocks of the survival pyramid and they are Cerebral and physical preparedness leading to the actual act of survival itself.

Each phase builds upon the other to culminating into the final result in which we all hope we never have to deploy but want to have the skills to do so if the situation warrants.

Let's discuss the first phase Cerebral Preparedness.

This process seems pretty simple and straight forward all you have to do is think about a couple of things as you watch some barefoot hippie types running around some jungle somewhere. After watching a couple of episodes you have thought you needed to prepare a little something in case you have to jump out of a plane onto a hot lava field and make it back to civilization before the zombies get you or your camera crew.

Regardless of what brought you here, you are here and I suppose I can't complain too much eh? A simple process of thinking. You think about a can of beans, a case of water, some Girl Scout cookies and some wieners in the freezer and you are set ready for anything. Great, let's move on shall we…………or just for giggles and grins we take the thought process to a more relevant level hmm, what say you?

Think about why you decided that you had the need to prepare. Think about what you should prepare for. Think about where you should to prepare and when to prepare. Think about whom you should prepare for. Simple stuff right?

Great, now that you have all that down let's move on………or maybe we should just stay on this subject for just a tinsy bit longer………. humor me alright?

First and quite possibly the most important thing beyond making the decision to start preparing in the first place is the remembering the reason you made the decision to prepare in the first place. This decision will be a motivational factor throughout the entire process. Whether you are a Newby or an ancient you will use that reason to motivate yourself beyond the sheople or naysayers (usually your family or friends) and propel yourself forward because you believe you are right and just in doing this craziness we call prepping.

You must imprint into your genetic code the reason you have started this journey. Your reasons may evolve as you move forward but always remember you're first reason. Hold onto that reason when the task seems overwhelming. Every Prepper has gotten discouraged at the scope of the overall plan but that is why we have thin mints and the Prepper's networks across this great nation. Whether it is for self preservation and or the preservation of the people God has put in your charge.

It doesn't matter the reason, it only matters that the reason, for you is strong enough to motivate you into action. You need to think about the reason every day, not as an obsession but as a reminder to act. You do not have to justify your decision to the naysayers or even to yourself because you know you have made the right decision is good enough! Now that I have gotten philosophically preachy about using your noggin for more than a hat rest so let's move on because Sittin' and thinkin' ain't all there is to it just one important phase and it can seem to careen out of control so Keep your hands inside the ride at all times because we racing further into the rabbit hole and next stop the magical place called The Physical Prepping arena where there are many a wonderful things.

As always if you have any questions or just want to blow wind in my sails drop us a line matey. saltydawg@thepiratesrepublic

Salty Dawg

Grocery Shopping in Hard Times

2011-03-31T13:40:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share a few things that I have learned over the years about grocery shopping. I am sure that many of these you have heard before. There is a reason for that though. They work! With food prices skyrocketing it has become even more important to make you dollar stretch. And for those of us who are working on our food storage it means that the more we can save in one area, the more we can prep in another!

I like to keep a running list of the things I use. Mine is on my fridge. A friend of mine keeps her's inside her pantry door with a pen attached to it so she can jot it down as she takes it out of the cupboard. When you remove something from your pantry write it down so you will remember to replace it. And always remember to rotate your groceries. This makes sure you don't end up with wasted food. There is nothing worse than having to toss out something that you could have used if you had just rotated it in your pantry!

*** Check out the weekly ads in your area BEFORE you go shopping and use it to help with making your list. Once you get your pantry stocked up you can use this "tip" to help you prep and save money while you are doing it. The idea is to try and NEVER buy anything that isn't on sale or doesn't have the best bang for the buck so to speak.

*** Always shop with a list

*** If you have to veer off the list... make sure it is because you have found a REAL bargain. Try and give yourself a little "leeway" just in case you find one of those Unadvertised Specials. Don't make a habit of it but always try to be aware of these specials and jump on them if you find yourself a good bargain!

*** Use coupons. You CAN save alot of money using coupons. There are tons of websites dedicated to couponing. Check them out and do a little homework. Check out stores that offer double and triple coupons. Don't buy things that you will not use or that you don't need. Remember: Eat what you Store and Store what you Eat.

*** Never shop when you are hungry. There is no better way for me to load up on "crap" than when I go to the store with the munchies. All the sudden everything looks good!

*** Try to shop alone. Think about it. When you take the kids or even the significant other how often do you find yourself buying things you had NO intention of getting when you walked in the store?

*** Check out the store brands. Not always, but more often than not, the store brands are just as good and usually less expensive. If you try the product and don't like it, most stores will refund you your money. They want your business and want you to come back. I have actually taken back the label of an empty can of soup once that I thought was disgusting. They gave me my $ back! OK I know this one isn't a tip for the faint of heart but hey ....if you are cheap....er frugal...

*** Compare unit prices. I have found this to be really really helpful. Most all stores show the price per ounce. Lot's of times what you "thought" was a good deal really isn't at all. Compare the per ounce costs of each item. You would be surprised at how many times "bigger is not always better".

*** Buying in bulk can save money. Be careful with this one though. I have found lately that some smaller sizes are actually less expensive than buying in bulk. This is where watching your "unit" prices comes in handy.

*** When you are checking out ALWAYS watch the scanner. I've caught mistakes over and over again because items didn't ring up correctly at the checkout. Why spend all that time trying to save money just to have them not ring it up correctly? Don't be shy about letting them know.

*** Watch for marked down items. You can save huge money. I try to go earlier in the day to catch marked down items. Always check what I like to call "the bargain buggy" This is where you can pick up some great deals on "dented" and discontinued items. When a package is torn or squashed they will mark the item down as well.

*** I also find some excellent deals in the meat department like this. Since I either use what I have bought the same day or freeze it that same day this works well for me. I once found sliced cheese (24 oz package) marked down to $0.75 each. And yes it was "real" cheese. I bought all 15 packages and put them up in the freezer.

*** When you find something that you use regularly on sale - Stock up and buy as much as you can afford to. You know you will be using it later on and prices are rising fast these days. Store what you eat and eat what you store.

*** If the store is out of your "sale" item always ask for a raincheck. They usually ask how many you want at that price. I ALWAYS tell them I want the maximum number allowed if it has a limit. When you redeem the coupon you don't have to buy that amount but if you can afford it and want to you still have that option. While you are waiting for them to restock that item you can also start looking for coupons for it. That way when it does come in, you can save even more.

*** Sign up for the "Store Card" This can save you money that you didn't even know about. If you are reluctant to give up your information to them do what I do. Make up some BS information. They NEVER check the information anyway. And if they do, so what? What are they going to do? Call the grocery cops on you?

*** Remember that a sale is not always necessarily a sale. Many times a store will try to push something that has been overstocked and will just put it on an end-cap to get your attention.

*** Stay away from convenience foods. You can make most of the same things at home for half the price. (I should do a whole post on this one!)

*** Avoid last minute impulse items. They put all that stuff next to the check-out counter to try and get you to make unnecessary purchases. Keep your hands to yourself in the check-out lane!

These are just a few suggestions. I am sure there are MANY more. But following just a few basic guidelines can help you save lots of money and help your food storage to grow and grow.
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Join the APN Forum at www.AmericanPreppersNetwork.net
Visit the Oklahoma Forum at www.OklahomaPreppersNetwork.net

Prior Proper Planning Prevents Poor Pitiful Performance!

2011-03-22T11:25:00.000-07:00

Prior Proper Planning Prevents Poor Pitiful Performance!

From: Salty Dawg

Yep it’s more than just an exercise in the capitalization of P! It is a mantra of sorts that every Prepper utilizes whether they know it or not. The very idea of prepping for anything that comes down the path is really genetically encoded within us all.

However, some are lazy! Lazy is my word for stupid! Let me digress to illustrate the example, even the cave man brought a stick or a rock along to pound over the head of a potential food source or protect himself against a potential threat. I guess in a way you could consider them our first multi tool. Even in the earliest of days our ancestors prepared or simply died out. This learned response was passed down from generation to generation to help perpetuate the species of man and that includes women.

Today we have two categories of people, the “us’s” and the “them’s” this is not a class warfare term it is rather a separation of the people not from the have and have not’s rather from the people who do and who do not. The “Us’s” are the Preppers like you and I that are, in a word preparing but preparing for what you say? Preparing for whatever I exclaim proudly! We are preparing ourselves mentally with knowledge and know how and physically with supplies and goods.

There are many reasons people prepare and one is no less important than another. Your reason may be to simply have some provisions around in case of a storm and to level out the spikes in food and fuel pricing. Others may have loftier goals in mind and are preparing so they may remove themselves from the grid entirely. Most of us fall somewhere in between the two ends of this spectrum. The reasons that you prepare are not as important as the actual act of preparing.

There is an old saying that goes like this “expect the best prepare for the worst”, is this another Prepper’s mantra or just some good solid advice? The Prepper at their very core believes in storing up or putting back for the proverbial rainy day. Generations of people before us have set up cupboards, pantries and cellars with canned or dried goods some have made do with cisterns for water to offset any lack of performance from their a water wells. They scrimped and saved and prepared for whatever came their way next because inevitably something always comes along.

During the Great Depression the “Us’s” of that generation learned the value of sacrifice and saving and taught that lesson to their children thus perpetuating the survival of mankind. However, at that very same time the government started a program of handouts. The intention was valid enough but unknowingly or some say even knowingly created the first generation of “Thems” the non contributing takers of our society. Not a few weak minded drains on the general population but an entire generation of non-contributing takers of the general populous.

Every city in every state of our Great Nation has them in ever growing numbers. Once the resources are drained from that particular area they move on to drain the resources of another or stay in place and demand that the government take care of them because they are down trodden. So Instead of believing they had the right to pursue happiness as defined in the Bill of Rights. The “Thems” have a distorted belief that they had the right to their happiness guaranteed through the efforts of others.

The damage could have been contained if remanded after the immediate need was met but unfortunately they also taught their children to press the government to take care of them thus being a burden on society and made a generation of un-prepared masses willing to take hand outs rather than take measure to ensure their own survival rate against what may befall them later. Enough political jiber - jabber, and history lessons as seen through my eyes! So whatever the reasons you have chosen to be one of “US” then hoorah!!!! Welcome aboard we have cookies! Let’s go to a great place to start. which coincidentally is the name of the next article in this series.

The Salty Dawg

The Pirates Republic

Evil thrives when good men do nothing

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Bugging Out

2011-03-19T21:06:00.001-07:00

Bugging Out

What, me run? When is it better to bail? What scenarios would make us actually think about vacating our Head Quarters?

You spent a ton of time, money and brain cells on equipping the ultimate shelter and now you are faced with someone having the audacity to ask you to think of the possibility of evacuating your fortress of solitude, Let alone demand that you leave or far worse being removed by force.

No matter the level of survivalist I speak with, the topic of bugging out always comes up. Bug out bags, bug out vehicles, bug out locations, bug out routes, bug out this and bug out that, bob, bov, bol, bor, blt’s, OMG!!!!!!!!!!!. Wait take a deep breath and think. Sadly, most people believe if they have spent any amount of time thinking about the subject of bugging out they believe they have prepared adequately.

Have you thought this through; this is a wicked little maze you are going to embark upon. When I ask this question I get the stink eye and the obligatory raised eyebrow However, I am always mindful that the devil is in the details and neither you nor I are immune.

The more prepared you are the less the impact it will be on you and whom you Sheppard when it hits the fan. Let’s face it when the enemy is landing on your beaches it’s not the time to start building bunkers and battleships. So if you find yourself asking this question “Should I hunker down or ride like the wind” you will be glad you have considered or perhaps reconsidered your options.

Should you hunker down or ride like the wind? That really is a question that can only be answered by you and it certainly depends upon you and your comfort zone. I personally have spent too much time setting up my headquarters for me to just arbitrarily vacate all willie nillie! In my particular situation I have very few reasons to bug out. So you can consider me one of the “survival in place” crowd however, this doesn’t mean there isn’t any reasons I would short time evacuate or permanently vacate my head quarters. Two good reasons for me would be chemical and biological these two are definitely some reasons that are absolute in bugging out and getting the hell out of dodge. As for my situation these are pretty much the only reasons I would have need to giddy up and out, both for the most part are manmade but we can talk about these two items in another article should you wish.

Now getting back on topic let’s say we have made the command decision that the situation is serious enough to warrant an “evac”. What now? Now you are faced with two choices to vacate the premises under your own plan or under somebody else’s plan. As for me and my household we like our chances with our thought out, reasoned and rehearsed plan.

Remember, although you may have a plan in place you must take into consideration that the city, state and federal authorities will also have a plan and the government plan will always supersede all other plans being implemented. So I periodically go into my city hall and ask about their evacuation or disaster plan. You can also ask this of your county and state government officials. I do recommend being respectful. In today’s world climate asking the government about proposed evacuation plans always raises eyebrows so I always start the conversation with something non aggressive such as “I visited the Red Cross website and it suggested that I should inquire with you as to your disaster scenario plans”. This seems to settle them down and treat you with respect.

This knowledge is beneficial and gives me insight as to the all knowing big brothers plan for my survival but more importantly I can plan to potentially avoid the congested areas that surely would be mired down by the confused masses! Now with that being said, we press on with Prior Proper Planning Prevents Poor Pitiful Performance!
That's the name of the next article in this series, and I won't try to sell you something in it either! Just some ramblings from a Saltydawg who doesn't claim to be an expert just experienced!

Salty Dawg
The Pirates Republic
Evil thrives when good men do nothing

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One Year Supply of Food Storage Under $300

2011-03-15T16:36:00.000-07:00

A years worth of food storage for under $300! Yes, you read that right. How does expanding your food storage with literally hundreds of meals for around $300 sound? I think I may have found one of the best kept secrets around for pumping your food storage up REAL FAST and REAL CHEAP.

Scotch Broth is is a combination of grains and legumes and it provides a balanced and nutritious meal on the cheap! "This particular combination is said to provide a balance of ALL of the appropriate amino acids required for a person."

This is really easy recipe to "change" in countless ways.By adding left over meats or vegetables or adding dried vegetables to the mix you could totally change it up. It wouldn't have to be "the same ol' thing either!
The following is an excerpt from the forums at Timebomb2k. This recipe has been floating around the internet for several years but I don't think it has gotten nearly enough attention.

This is what you will need
4 x 22lb (or 10kg) rice. (Any kind will do).
2 x 11lb (or 5kg) kidney beans
2 x 11lb (or 5kg) barley
2 x 11lb (or 5kg) lentils (yellow)
1 x 5.5lb (or 2.5kg) green split peas
1 x 5.5lb (or2.5 kg) chick peas (garbanzo beans)

( You will also need a total of 30 pounds of bouillon. This has been added into the total cost of $300. You will add it to each batch as you cook it. I think I will store both chicken AND beef bouillon.)

Method:
Put the rice in a mixing container.Then add each of the other ingredients 5kg at a time, mixing as you go. (Use surgical gloves or you'll have no nails left, LOL!).
When you have all the other ingredients mixed in with the first two bags of rice, add the last two bags of rice and *REALLY* mix well or you'll get all rice on the bottom of your mixture.

MAKING SOUP.
Take 16oz of the dry mixture and put in about 6-7 quarts of water (with a nut of butter or a tsp. of olive oil to prevent soup boiling over) and add 3 tablespoons (or to taste) of powdered soup stock. We like to use chicken stock.
Then add any veggies, meat, & seasoning you like (if available). (We like to also put in lots of garlic) (DO NOT USE ONIONS - they'll spoil the mixture).
Bring to a boil and let simmer for two hours and you have enough soup for two days for 4 people.

On the second day you'll need to add some more water (it thickens in the fridge overnight) and another tablespoon of stock. Make sure to boil for at least 10 minutes the second day to kill off any potential bacteria, - especially if you are not storing in fridge, but just in a root cellar or like that in the event of no electricity in summer.

We make our own bread and have a thick slice fer dunkin' with a large bowl of this delicious soup and it serves as a main meal. You are FULL after just one (large size) bowl of this stuff.

Kids will usually only be able to eat half a bowl w/bread, or a small bowl, whichever you prefer. Adults will likely want a nice big bowl.

If there is any mixture left on the third day, just add the new mixture to it. You will need less of course, but you'll get to know how to gauge things as you go along catering to the requirements of your own little family."
ONIONS-Re: onions... They ferment too quickly, and cut down the amount of time you can safely store already cooked soup.

Assuming there are no refrigerators etc., it's best to err on the side of caution and not use them in the soup. If you want to waste fuel and make your soup daily, then onions aren't a problem.

We LOVE onions in our house, and cook them by wrapping them in tinfoil, and putting them in the ever-burning wood stove for an hour. We put in some potatoes too usually, and have a meal of tatties & onions. They taste wonderful prepared in this way, particularly if you add a little butter or olive oil and some herbs when you take them out of the fire. This and some greens is all you need to exist except for vitamin B12.

The recipe calls for the following ingredients by weight
88 pound(s) or 40 kilogram(s) rice
22 pound(s) or 10 kilogram(s) kidney beans
22 pound(s) or 10 kilogram(s) barley
22 pound(s) or 10 kilogram(s) lentils, yellow
5.50 pound(s) or 05 kilogram(s) green split peas
5.50 pound(s) or 05 kilogram(s) chick peas
165 pound(s) or 80 kilogram(s) Total weight

These parts are converted (by weight) as follows to arrive at one pound of broth.
08 ounce(s) rice
02 ounce(s) red kidney beans
02 ounce(s) pearl barley
02 ounce(s) lentils (yellow)
01 ounce(s) green split peas
01 ounce(s) chick peas (Garbanzos)
16 ounce(s) Total Food

Along with the basic recipe there are also other suggestions to make this truly an excellent source for your long term food storage. One thought that I had was that this would be a good way to have some "charitable" foods on hand. You could package it into smaller containers (1 or 2 pounds) and have a few meals on hand for the less fortunate. Another idea would be to make up a batch and dehydrate it. You would have a fast and tasty "Instant Soup".
If you were to do this over 12 pay-days, and if you are paid weekly, - you would have a10-year food supply in just 3 months. What a super way to "pump up" your food storage!
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How to Dehydrate Hamburger (Hamburger Rocks)

2011-03-10T21:34:00.000-08:00

How would you like to be able to store hamburger without having to freeze it? How about being able to take advantage of a good sale without having to worry about how much freezer space it is going to take up? What if you could keep it for a couple of years or more just sitting on your shelf? What if you could have it already cooked and ready to use in no time at all and with no thawing involved? If this sounds like something you would be interested in, then boy do I have some good news for you! They are called Hamburger Rocks and they do! (Rock, that is!) And the best part? Simple, easy to use and you can do it right in your own kitchen.
There are countless recipes you can use with hamburger rocks. Now with that being said, there are a few things that this stuff won't work for. You can't really "form" it so you won't be able to make things like meatballs or hamburger patties. Other than that your imagination is your only limitation. Use it for things like taco meat, spaghetti sauce, soups, chipped beef, meat pies, and pizza toppings. Even Hamburger Helper just got even easier!! Anything you usually use "crumbled" hamburger for, you can use hamburger rocks for.
Here's how you do it.

1. Brown your hamburger a skillet. While you are cooking it be sure to break it up well. You don't want large chunks in your pan.
2. Once your hamburger is browned, drain all the grease from it. An easy way to do that is to use a colander.
3. After you drain as much grease out as you can, rinse the meat with boiling hot water until the grease is gone and let it drain again. You want as little as possible in your meat. Grease will make your meat go rancid pretty quickly. You want to avoid this at all costs.
4. After you have the grease out and the meat is well drained, put it in a clean skillet. Season your meat with whatever you choose to use. I use salt, pepper onion powder and garlic powder. Season it to your own taste. (You could make up different batches like "taco meat" or any other flavor) Continue cooking until all the moisture is gone. You want to get it as dry as you can without burning the meat.
5.If you are using a dehydrator, place your meat on the trays. I would use screens or fruit roll up trays so the meat doesn't fall through. If you are going to be using your oven, put the meat in a baking pan about 1/2 inch or so deep. A cookie sheet or something similar works well.
6. Dry at 165 degrees for approximately 15 hours in your dehydrator. For your oven (if you can't set it at 165 degrees) you may need to it at its lowest temperature. Put a spoon or something like it in the door to prop it open slightly. This will allow the moisture to escape as well a lower the temperature slightly.
Stir every few hours to make sure it is evenly drying. When it is done, the meat will be dark brown and hard (like little rocks) with no moisture in it.
7. Store in air tight jars. You can use your vacuum sealer or o2 absorbers to draw out the air.

To re-hydrate, place the meat in a bowl and cover with boiling water. As with most dehydrated foods the rule of thumb is 2 parts water to 1 part meat.
And there you have it. A really simple way to store hamburger meat with minimal effort.

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Oklahoma Preppers Roll Call - All Preppers Please Check In

2011-03-07T06:13:00.001-08:00

The American Preppers Network is conducting a network-wide roll call. Whether you are a member or not please check in and let us know what you are doing to prepare.

This is a good opportunity to network with other preppers near you.

Oklahoma Preppers, to respond to the roll call please follow this link:
http://americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=346&t=9278

Reply to the Roll Call and let us know what you have been doing to prepare.

If you are not yet a member of the forum you can register here for free:
http://americanpreppersnetwork.net/ucp.php?mode=register

Dehydrating Is Fun

2011-02-27T12:03:00.001-08:00

I really love dehydrating foods. It is an easy solution for storing many things in your long term storage. Fruits and vegetables don't take up as much room and it is also extremely easy to do. Folks have been drying foods for centuries. It doesn't take much equipment and the foods, when dried, can be stored easily and take very little space.

You can dehydrate most vegetables. There are of course exceptions to every rule, but generally most will do well when dried.

You will need some method of drying your vegetables, something to cut them with and some method of blanching some of your vegetables. All that means is that you need a dryer, a knife and a big pot of boiling water!

People ask what kind of dehydrators they should look for. Two of the most popular are the Excalibur and the Nesco American Harvester. The Excalibur is an excellent dehydrator and what I call the "Caddy" (as in Cadillac) of dryers. It is also one of the most expensive ones on the market. The folks I know who own them wouldn't trade them for the world. A really nice dehydrator with nine large trays. The fan is located in the back of the dehydrator and blows air evenly ACROSS the foods.

The Nesco American Harvester is a great dehydrator. The cost is less than half of the Excalibur. It is the one that I own. I love mine and it does a wonderful job. It is an expandable dehydrator. What that means is that you can add up to 12 trays or use as few as one. The fan on the Nesco is at the top of the dryer and blows air down and back up the trays. It has "vents" in the sides that also help to circulate the air.

Either of these dehydrators are an excellent choice. The one thing you want in a dryer is to make sure that it has a thermostat. Some come with timers but in my opinion they are unnecessary.

Another dehydrator to consider is a solar dehydrator. You can buy these already constructed or build one yourself. There are many plans out there on the internet for building one yourself. You may just have things laying around the house that can be turned into a solar dryer. You could even make a "redneck" dehydrator by using a car in the summertime. Sounds funny I know, but it can and does work! Like I said, just do an internet search and you will come up with tons of different ways to make your own dehydrator.

As I said earlier, you can dehydrate almost any vegetable and lots of different fruits. Once your garden starts producing ( You do have a garden started right?) you can dry all those vegetables rather than using up your freezer space.

I'll be doing some more posts on dehydrating in the future. Don't forget to check out the American Preppers Network Forums. Lots of wonderful folks there with many layers of experience. So if you are just starting out prepping or have been at it all your life you can find something of interest there. There's a link at the top of the page. Click it and ta da!! You are there.
But if you are looking for more information there are many places on the net. One of the best is Dehydrate2Store. Tammy is a dehydrating "guru" and there is much that you can learn from her videos.

~~~ Hey ... I'm Just Sayin' ...~~~

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Spring Time in the Garden

2011-02-22T13:52:00.000-08:00

I haven't been doing a lot of "prepper" stuff lately. With all the things going on in America and around the world these days I should be screaming from the rafters PREPARE NOW!!!! Things are getting scary and for some reason, now that things are starting to fall apart, I feel almost frozen in place. Which happens occasionally. I'm sure I'm not the only one. I believe we are living in what will be looked back upon as historic times. Take notes boys and girls, this will be one to tell your grandchildren about. Let's just hope we can tell them while still living in a Free America and not just about "the good old days" when we lived in a place we used to call America, the Beautiful.

Ok, now that I have identified the reason for my "dismal mood" and realize that my general outlook has been sucking... (sucking? I'm pretty sure that's not really the word I was looking for but it certainly fits) It is now time to pull up my proverbial "big girl panties" and get on with it. After all, spring is right around the corner and there are things we can be doing to get ready for what is sure to be an "interesting" summer.
One of the things we CAN do about getting ourselves more prepared for the inevitable higher prices we are going to see in the grocery stores this year is to plant a garden. Even if you have never tried growing one it's really not that hard to do.

So lets talk about some gardening! After spending most of the winter looking out the window and wishing for warmer weather, nothing makes a person feel better than to start planning your garden.
You will first have to figure out just what you have to work with. No excuses either! Even if you live in an apartment you can grow something. Container gardening can produce lots of vegetables in small amount of space. You just need a few containers, some good dirt, and some seeds. Heck, this year, instead of planting those seasonal flowers in your flower bed, how about using that space to grow edible plants! You would be amazed at how many vegetables are not only good to eat but are pretty to look at!

You can use most any kind of containers as long as they have a way to let the water drain off the soil. Even old 5 gallon buckets will work. Just drill some holes in the bottom and you will be ready to go. Your choice of containers is only as limited as your imagination. You can easily grow tomato's, peppers, lettuce, cucumbers, etc in containers.

I am a big advocate for shopping local and your local nursery is no exception. You can pick up most everything you need there as well as your seeds. You can also purchase some vegetable starter plants at your local nursery. They are a great resource for information about planting in your area. If you don't have a nursery near you then even your "big box" stores will usually carry starter plants and seeds. I personally would rather not shop there but if there isn't another option for now then by all means go for it. Planting something is much better than not planting at all!

If you still have time to do it, then another option for purchasing your seeds is to shop online for them. Places like Baker Creek Seeds, Seeds of Change and the Seed Savers Exchange all carry heirloom and open pollinated seeds. There are many other places that carry heirloom seeds as well. Just be sure that they are truly not Genetically Modified seeds. And be sure to ask if they are affiliated in ANY way with Monsanto. Those seeds are a big no no in my personal opinion.

With that being said I personally think that most plants are just as easy to start from seed, but if you are more comfortable starting out with seedlings then go with that! Remember, this is your garden and it is supposed to be fun and lots of us find it pretty relaxing too! So don't let the little things stress you out. Find a spot somewhere that gets maximum sunlight. Some morning or afternoon shade is ok but you will want to have at least 6 hours or so of direct sunlight.

Do you have a garden spot already? Then it's time to get your dirt turned over and tilled up. Now would be a good time to take a soil sample to your local County Extension Agency. Some of them still offer this service for free or at a really nominal rate. They can tell you what, if anything, your soil might be needing. They are also a great source for information about what AND when to plant in your specific area. And now is a great time to do that.

Here is the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone map. Click here to find out what zone you are in. Most vegetables can be planted between April 15th and June 1st, depending on the zone you are in. The Vegetable Garden is a super website that lists the planting schedules and extension agencies for your area. The information there is invaluable to both the new gardener and those with more hands on experience as well.

Planting a garden of any kind can be lots of fun. Make a summer kids garden while you are at it. Teach your children gardening this year and create a lifetime of memories. And face it, there isn't anything much better that fresh, right out of the garden vegetables on your dinner table. You will be amazed at what you can do. With food prices out of control in the stores, you can save a ton of money this summer. So get out there and get started. The only thing stopping you is you!

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Once Upon A Time

2011-02-20T14:41:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time there was a little girl who lived with all of her family. Of course most people live with their family, but this little girl lived with ALL of hers from time to time. She would visit with her mothers parents and all of her wonderful aunts and uncles from time to time. You see, her mother went away when she was small and so her father sent her to live with his parents. He was a soldier and Uncle Sam said the little girl couldn't go with him.
     So she came to live with her grandparents. Her grandparents loved her very much. In fact, more wonderful people were hard to find. Her grandmother shared her love of music and her love of life with the little girl. Grandmother would play the piano and the little girl would place her hands on hers. She felt magic in the sounds of the piano. They would sing fun songs and songs she would sing in Sunday School. Her grandmother taught her to crochet and even how to paint. Of course the little girls pictures were just the pictures that little girls draw, but to her grandmother they were works of art. She showed her and to cook and to can all sorts of wonderful things that came from the garden her grandfather tended.
     Her grandfather taught her to whistle and where to find the best worms for fishing. How put a wiggly worm on the hook and how to reel in "The biggest fish I ever saw!" They would work in the big garden he grew. He showed her how to tell the differences in the good plants and the bad plants. They would eat fresh vegetables right off the plants. She learned the difference between beans and peas and all sorts of other good things to eat. Once he even planted strawberries for her just because she loved them so much. . He showed her how to tell when the strawberries were just right to pluck from the vine. They filled their baskets with the red sweet fruits, nibbling at the juicy berries all the while. and would take them to her grandmother to wash and clean. The little girl would pull up her favorite chair to the kitchen counter and help her grandmother make heavenly jams and jellies.
     Her father came home from the war and brought a new mom for the little girl. Her new mom was lots of fun and knew how to do lots of things. She taught the little girl how to do cartwheels. She even learned make her own bed, with clean sheets that smelled of sunshine and fresh breezes. Hanging clothes on the line was fun and besides, her mom really needed someone to hand her the clothes pins right?    Her new mother would bake fresh bread and cakes and cookies. On Saturday mornings they would cook yummy things like French Toast or pancakes and bacon. Once again the little girl dragged her chair up to the kitchen counter and helped make all these yummy things.
    Her father let her help in his garden since she now knew what weeds looked like! They would eat warm ripe tomato's out in the garden and the juice would run down their chins. Sometimes she would make sandwiches with fresh bread and homemade jelly and they would go to the woods and hunt. Other times they would go fishing. Often they had fresh meat or fish for dinner that night. She learned how to clean a fish but never wanted to learn to how to clean game. Her father called it "dressing out the game". She never did figure that one out. It was more like undressing to her!
And then, before she knew it, the girl had grown up and had a home and family of her own. But she would never forget the things her family had taught her. She knew that one day she would be able to do all these things and more.
                                        The End
Or is it just the beginning? You see, all those skills that our parents and grandparents taught us are slowly becoming lost. I feel that we, as parents and responsible adults, have a responsibility to make sure they not. Pass them on. The day is coming (soon) that they will be some of the most important things we could know.

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Prepping For Pets

2011-02-06T12:49:00.001-08:00

by Who is John Gall »

Ok, I would be the first to admit that if I had to choose, I would choose a loved human over a loved animal and most of my planning has been done with that in mind. But, nevertheless, I do still plan for them.

We have a cat, four dogs, three parrots, a 50 gallon fish tank (with fish), and the koi pond (with koi). I live in hurricane country, so I plan with that in mind... What if we are without power for weeks? What if the house is destroyed (nearly was in Gustav)?

Yes, I do stock extra food and water for everyone (fur, feathers, and scales). But, the fish need good water quality. A well maintained aquarium should be able to withstand 24 (maybe 48) hours without circulating water, but after that the fish will start to suffocate and die in the stagnant water. To try and keep the fish alive (I have had some of them for over 5 years now, they are like scaly family) here are my plans: First, when I know that a storm is approaching, do a water change (time permitting). Next, during the storm when the power goes out, use battery powered air pumps (more on those latter). Then, when the generator gets going, run the tanks filters on the ginny. As a last resort, manually circulate the water (pull out and dump back in a gallon of water at a time every hour or so).

Not sure if I am doing this photo bit right, but here is a pic of one brand of battery powered air pump:

There are others, I have seen some at Walmart in the fishing section for use with live bait wells. Most seem to rum about $7-$15. The one that I have runs off of D cells and plugs into a wall outlet. It does not run off of the AC current, but as soon as that current goes off/the power goes out the little pump comes on. They come with air stones, but I use the little disposable charcoal filters for kiddie tanks from Petsmart. They are cheap, provide some circulation, and provide some filtration too. You just rinse them off with tap water and plug them into the air hose and they are ready to go. I have three of these air pumps for the tank. I am also planning on using this system with the fish in 5 gallon buckets, should we need to evacuate (or when we end up moving in the next year or so...no, toting the fish about during a forced relocation is not my plan, but I am prepared to do so).

Still working on the koi pond. It holds about 800 gallons, which would probably be topped off with the rain during a hurricane, and the fish have all fared well without the pump going for several days in a row. I am thinking of building a solar generator to run some things in the house at need (the generator gets really loud) and will probably have it run the pond's pump all of the time to exercise the battery.

As for the other animals, I try and keep them all ready to evacuate at need. I keep a 5-gallon bucket sealed with their stuff in it: extra collars and leashes, toys, doggie baggies, copies of immunization records, zip lock bags of kitty litter. I have a travel carrier for each animal (2 of the parrots fit well in wire rabbit cages and the third goes into a wire dog crate) and a disposable litter box for the cat. I also keep a pet first aid kit...amazingly enough, though, the antibiotics for the fish that they sell at Petsmart seem to be the same as the ones that are dispensed for people.

I do know that these pets are all just creature comforts, and if worse were to come to worse and I had to chose what goes into the truck, a case of MREs or a bucket of fish...well MREs can be pretty tasty. Nonetheless, I still believe in planning for the worst and hoping for the best.

To read replies to this post or make a comment follow the link below:

http://www.americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=124&t=910

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5 Simple Ways To Prepare For The Coming Food Crisis

2011-01-15T07:28:00.000-08:00

Activist Post

Recently there has been an incredible flurry of news reporting about food shortages and the pending global food crisis. Everyone who looks at the indicators would agree that this crisis is only likely to worsen. It is estimated that the Australia floods alone could cause a 30% jump in food prices. Although the average shopper already can feel the food inflation, it is difficult to recognize the severity of the looming food shortages. After all, there are still 15 types of colorfully-boxed Cheerios packing the isles, which gives us the illusion of abundance.

The truth is that we are headed for large food production shortfalls, manipulated or not, while middle-class food demand grows massively in the developing world. For decades the world's agriculture community produced more than enough food to feed the planet, yet some now believe we are reaching "Peak Food" production levels. In turn, other experts believe the "food bubble" is about to burst, and not even the biotech companies can save us.

However, there are still vast unused stretches of fertile land that can be used around the globe, and the U.S. ethanol mandates that reportedly consume at least 25% of the corn harvest could be reduced to ease the burden. Therefore, it seems that despite the extreme weather and dwindling harvests, food production still has room to increase, but not without foresight and planning.

Additionally, the current systems for growing food are fully dependent on oil to achieve high levels of production, while livestock production is running at full concentration-camp capacity; the end product must then travel thousands of miles to get to store shelves. Clearly we can see the fragile nature of this system, especially on human health and the environment. Consequently, solving the so-called "food crisis" is far more complex than simply fixing statistical supply and demand issues.

Indeed, these are turbulent times where humanity appears to be nearing Peak Everything. Ultimately, solutions to the food crisis will begin at the local level. There are cutting-edge farming techniques gaining popularity that produce a large variety of crops by mimicking nature, as well as innovative techniques for small-scale food production at home or in urban buildings. These hold promise for easing local hunger.

Personal ways to protect yourself from food shortages may seem obvious to some, but many feel the task can be insurmountable. To the contrary, here are 5 simple ways to protect yourself from the coming food crisis:

1. Create a Food Bank: Everyone should have a back-up to the everyday food pantry. In this environment, you should consider your personal food bank far more valuable than a dollar savings account. Start by picking up extra canned goods, dried foods, and other essentials for storage each time you go to the store. Also, hunt for coupons and shop for deals when they come up. Devise a plan for FIFO (first in, first out) rotation for your food bank. It is advisable to acquire food-grade bins to store your bulk dried foods, and be sure to label and date everything. Besides the obvious store-able foods like rice and beans, or canned goods, some other important items to hoard are salt, peanut butter, cooking oils, sugar, coffee, and powdered milk. If you don't believe the food crisis will be too severe, then buy items that you would eat on a normal daily basis. But if you believe the crisis will be sustained for some time, purchasing a grain mill to refine bulk wheat or corn may prove to be the most economical way to stretch your food bank. Some emergency MREs are also something to consider because they have a long shelf life.

2. Produce Your Own Food: Having some capacity to produce your own food will simply become a necessity as the food system crumbles. If you don't know much about gardening, then start small with a few garden boxes for tomatoes, herbs, or sprouting and keep expanding to the limits of your garden. And for goodness sakes, get some chickens. They are a supremely easy animal to maintain and come with endless benefits from providing eggs and meat, to eating bugs and producing rich manure. Five laying hens will ensure good cheap protein for the whole family. If you have limited growing space, there are brilliant aquaculture systems that can produce an abundance of fish and vegetables in a small area. Aquaponics is a contained organic hydroponic system where the fertilized waste water from the fish tank is pumped through the vegetable growing trays which absorb the nutrients before returning clean water to the fish tank. Set high goals for independent food production, but start with what's manageable.

3. Learn Food Preservation: Food preservation comes in many forms such as canning, pickling, and dehydrating. In every case some tools and materials are required along with a good deal of knowledge. If you can afford a dehydrator, they all usually come with a preparation guide for most foods. You can also purchase a vacuum sealer if you have the means. A good vacuum sealer should come with thorough instructions and storage tips, and will add months if not years to many food items. If you're a beginner at canning, start with tomatoes first. It's easy and very valuable when all your tomatoes ripen at the same time and you want fresh pasta sauce in the winter. A bigger ticket item that is nice to have for food preservation is a DC solar powered chest freezer. It is the ultimate treasure chest.

4. Store Seeds: The government and the elite have seed banks and so should you. Seeds have been a viable currency in many civilizations past and present. They represent food when scarcity hits. Before the rise of commercial seed giants like Monsanto, local gardeners were adept at selecting seeds from the healthiest plants, saving them, and introducing them to the harvest for the following year, thus strengthening the species. Through local adaptation to pests, genetic diversity was further ensured; it was long-term thinking at its finest. That is why it is important to find heirloom seed banks and learn to save seeds from each harvest.

5. Join or Start a Local Co-Op: Joining local cooperatives is very important, especially when food shortages occur. You may not be able to provide for yourself completely, especially in terms of variety, so having a community mechanism to spread the burden and share the spoils will be critical. If you don't know if you have a local food cooperative in your area you can search the directory at LocalHarvest.org. You may also be able to get information from your local farmers market. If your area doesn't have a co-op, then start one. These co-ops don't have to be big or elaborate. In fact, it may be more optimal to organize it with friends, neighbors, or co-workers. Whether you join or start a cooperative, work to expand the participants and products.

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Doomsday Fear Mongers Get It Right Again

2010-12-28T22:52:00.000-08:00

By now, you’ve likely come across the recent 60 Minutes segment titled State Budgets: Day of Reckoning.

Millions of Americans who have been told that our economy is now in a period of recovery may be surprised to learn that most states are so broke that they are left with no other choice but to cut spending on literally everything. Governor Christie of New Jersey is, according to 60 Minutes, the canary in the mine: To continue this story please follow this link:

http://americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewforum.php?f=349&sid=2e0bea2f9cffae4c64d6b

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Sing the health praises of parsley and sage

2010-12-25T11:29:00.000-08:00

Those of us who go back a few years likely remember the line about parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme in the huge Simon and Garfunkel hit song about two ill-fated lovers, "Are You Going to Scarborough Fair". Many have speculated that the reference to the four popular herbs was due to their use in Medieval Europe to help cleanse the air and ward off the infamous black plague. Others have thought that the reference to the four herbs was because the combination may have been used as a love potion. Whatever the reason for their inclusion in the popular song, the many health benefits of parsley and sage are worth loving and singing praises about in their own rights.

PARSLEY

Parsley is an amazing medicinal herb with a world of health benefits. The root contains calcium, B-complex vitamins, and iron, which nourish the glands that help regulate the uptake of calcium. It is a source of magnesium, calcium, potassium, vitamin A, beta-carotene, vitamin C and vitamin K.

Among the many benefits reported for parsley are:

*It is a diuretic which helps the body produce more urine to keep the urinary system operating smoothly and which helps prevent problems such as kidney stones and bladder infections.

*It is wonderful for removing toxins from the body, such as heavy metals.

*It is an effective breath freshener. It is believed that the practice of including parsley on a dinner plate began due to its breath freshening abilities and not merely for its decorative effect.

*The root and leaves are good for the liver and spleen.

*It helps relieve bloating during menstruation.

*It provides relief for edema, often helping when other remedies have failed

*Parsley root and seeds help relax stiff joints, often making stiff and unmanageable fingers work again.

*It helps remove gallstones when used properly by taking a pint of the tea daily.

*It is beneficial for the adrenal glands.

*It is a powerful therapeutic aid for the optic nerves, brain and sympathetic nervous system.

*Parsley juice is an excellent tonic for the blood vessels.

Note: It is best to avoid large amounts of parsley if you are pregnant, especially the use of the volatile essential oil.

SAGE

Like rosemary, its sister herb in the mint (Labiatae) family, sage contains a variety of volatile oils, flavonoids and phenolic acids, including rosmarinic acid. The oils found in sage are both antiseptic and antibiotic, helping it fight infections.

Besides the antioxidant and other properties shared with Rosemary, sage`s other health benefits include:

*It is effective for symptoms of menopause, night sweats and hot flashes because of its estrogenic action and because its tannins help dry up perspiration.

*Sage helps provide better brain function and has been used in the treatment of cerebrovascular disease for over a thousand years. It helps provide better recall and research has suggested that it may be an effective option to help treat Alzheimer`s.

*There`s also compelling evidence that sage may be of value to people with diabetes for whom the hormone insulin does not work as efficiently as it should. Lab studies indicate that sage may boost insulin`s action.

* The ability of sage to protect oils from oxidation has also led some companies to experiment with sage as a natural antioxidant additive for cooking oils that can extend shelf life and help avoid rancidity.

In an upcoming article, we will also sing the praises of the other two herbs mentioned in the popular song - rosemary and thyme.

Sources included:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scarbo...
http://www.healthy-holistic-living....
http://www.greenmuze.com/blogs/natu...
http://www.buzzle.com/articles/pars...

About the author

Tony Isaacs, is a natural health author, advocate and researcher who hosts The Best Years in Life website for baby boomers and others wishing to avoid prescription drugs and mainstream managed illness and live longer, healthier and happier lives naturally. Mr. Isaacs is the author of books and articles about natural health, longevity and beating cancer including "Cancer's Natural Enemy" and is working on a major book project due to be published later this year.
Mr. Isaacs is currently residing in scenic East Texas and frequently commutes to the even more scenic Texas hill country near San Antonio and Austin to give lectures in health seminars. He also hosts the CureZone "Ask Tony Isaacs - featuring Luella May" forum as well as the Yahoo Health Group "Oleander Soup" and he serves as a consultant to the "Utopia Silver Supplement Company".

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Terrorist may poison the food supply (but the food companies already have)

2010-12-25T11:26:00.000-08:00

Always on the terror streak, the mainstream media is now warning Americans that terrorists may strike the food supply by dumping poison into restaurant salad bars and buffets, for example. CBS News broke the story, quoting anonymous "intelligence" sources who insist that terrorists might use ricin or cyanide to poison foods in salad bars.

I have news for CBS, the federal government, and the terrorists: If you really want to poison the U.S. food supply, just use aspartame. It causes neurological disorders and yet remains perfectly legal to dump into foods such as diet sodas and children's medicines. You don't even have to dump it into the food supply in secret, either: You can do it right out in full view of the public. Heck, you can even list this chemical right on the ingredients label!

Or get into the MSG business. MSG, which is often hidden on "natural" foods under an ingredient called yeast extract, is a potent neurotoxin that promotes obesity and even cancer, according to some experts. Feed people enough MSG and they'll probably die of cancer sooner or later, and that counts toward the goal of terrorism too, doesn't it?

If you really want to get nasty and up the body count, start a hot dog company and dump sodium nitrite into your processed meat like all the other hot dog companies do. Sodium nitrite promotes aggressive cancers -- even in children -- and yet the USDA and FDA allow its use in the food supply (http://www.naturalnews.com/007133.html).

Better yet, feed the population genetically modified corn and then wait for the mutations to kick in. GMOs might actually be called a biological weapon because they cause so much harm to humans and the environment. (http://www.naturalnews.com/GMO.html)

Why be a terrorist when you can do so much more damage as a processed food company?

If you're a terrorist looking to poison the U.S. food supply, get in line, buddy! The food companies have beat you to it!

In the U.S. food supply right now, you can find toxic mercury, BPA, acrylamides, petrochemicals, dangerous preservatives, synthetic chemicals like aspartame, pesticide residues and artificial colors that alter brain function. The FDA doesn't seem to care about any of this, of course: All these poisons in the food supply are legal!

So here's a message to Al-Qaeda and all the other terrorists trying to kill Americans: Don't bother with bombs and missiles... just get into the processed food business!

Or, heck, if you really want to kill Americans with poison, get into the cancer industry! The "Al-Qaeda Cancer Clinic" could really rack up some body bags by doing what all the other cancer clinics do: Inject patients with chemotherapy and watch them die (http://www.naturalnews.com/029996_c...).

Seriously, if you want to kill Americans, all you really need to do is keep supporting conventional medicine and the FDA with its do-nothing position on dangerous chemicals that threaten the health of Americans right now. FDA-approved drugs kill well over 100,000 Americans each year -- a statistic that dwarfs the body count of any terrorist group.

Come to think of it, how do we know the FDA isn't already being run by terrorists? Their actions, which blatantly endanger American lives, are entirely consistent with the aims of a terrorist organization. (http://www.naturalnews.com/001894.html)

By the way, this is all depicted in a CounterThink cartoon I created in 2006 called The Food Terrorists: http://www.counterthink.com/The_Foo...

This cartoon anticipated today's terror news alerts by four years. That's because when it comes to the U.S. government's rhetoric on terrorism, it's not that difficult to see where they're taking it.

Want to know what the next four years will bring us? I'll soon be publishing a list of predictions for 2011 and beyond. Watch NaturalNews.com for that announcement.

In the mean time, you might want to steer clear of FDA-approved foods and drugs, because you just never know what's really in them.

Sources for this story include:
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010...

Wednesday, December 22, 2010
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger
Editor of NaturalNews.com

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Response to Castle Doctrine Laws by State

2010-12-03T08:55:00.000-08:00

Original post "Castle Doctrine Laws by State" was written by Seeker2012

This is only one response by member okie B to an original post. I highly recommend that after reading this reply you follow the link below and read the entire string. It is very informative in what you can and can not do in protecting your home against intruders.

Posted by: okie B

Almost every state goes one of those two directions -- duty to retreat, or right to stand your ground. Here in Oklahoma, they recognized the right to stand your ground in your own house quite a while ago with the Make-My-Day law, but they have since expanded it to include your place of business and vehicle as well.

It never hurts to remind people though -- just because your state's castle laws include a right to stand your ground, that does not mean you have the right to shoot just anyone on your property. Even if that particular statute for your state says that there is a presumption that you are acting in self-defense (like Oklahoma's law does), presumptions can be overcome or negated by a stronger presumption. And the word presumption does not mean quite the same thing in law that it means in everyday usage. It has specific legal connatations and implications, but the overall meaning is similar to regular use. As a general rule, even if your state has pro-homeowner castle laws, you must believe that you are in immediate danger in your home from an intruder who is not legally supposed to be there. That is a very loaded sentence, and if all of those factors are not in place, you run the risk of a murder charge or a manslaughter charge instead of protection under the castle laws. If you shoot a government agent who is allowed to come on your property, you're in trouble. If you shoot a police officer serving a warrant, you're in trouble. If someone breaks in, you tell him to halt, he does, and you ask him questions before you shoot him, you're in trouble. If a four-year old is crawling in your window and you shoot him, you're most likely in trouble (although not for certain). If someone breaks into your shed, and you go out and confront him and shoot him, you're in trouble. If someone climbs your fence and crosses your yard, but does not try to break into your house, and you shoot him, you're in trouble. If you set up a booby trap to kill or injure someone who tries to break into your house while you are gone, you're in trouble.

These laws are meant for self-defense protection only. They are not meant to protect property. They are not meant to be self-help solutions in any instance except a him-or-me situation brought on by someone else's wrongdoing. PLEASE do not think these laws are a permission to start shooting people.

Please follow the link below to read and respond to original post and all of the replies:
http://www.americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=188&t=6353

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Oklahoma Preppers Roll Call

2010-11-27T10:42:00.000-08:00

The Oklahoma Preppers Network is conducting a Roll Call on our forum. If you are a prepper please check in.

* Here is a link to the Roll Call:
http://americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=346&t=6182

You have to be registered to check in. If you aren't registered please join here:
http://americanpreppersnetwork.net/ucp.php?mode=register

* If you are a HAM Radio Operator check in here:
http://americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=143&t=6219

* If you are an A.N.T.S. member please check in here:
http://americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=618&t=6220

Welcome New Members

2010-10-09T07:10:00.000-07:00

Welcome our new members:

lostand confused

hi, my name is tom and i hope to learn and share alot here. thanks.

welcome our new member by following the link below:
http://www.americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=563&t=6658&sid=d463a2b2

610giant

Hi,

I'm completely new to this sort of thing. I found out about preppers through Glenn Beck's links. I don't know the first thing about prepping, but I rented a self-storage space and bought some stuff from Aldi to put into it.

Is there a real meeting I can attend here in Tulsa with other people who can guide me in the right/simplest direction?

Thanks in advance,

610giant

welcome our new member by following the link below:
http://www.americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=346&t=6138&sid=435

Ranchman

Hello to all, I'm an Okie prepper for about 3 years now. Still working on it, ex-army and avid hunter/rancher. I'm in the northwest part of Oklahoma near the panhandle and I'm interested in communicating and networking with all in the area. I absolutely believe that there is strength in numbers and feel that all should have their own gear/supplies and pull their own weight, as me and mine will definitely pull ours. Again, I would like to get to know some like minded preppers in my area, from I-40 in the western part of Ok, up to the panhandle, look forward to hearin' from ya.

welcome our new member by following the link below:
http://www.americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=563&t=6055&sid=35f60

spottedhorse

Been casually working on prepping for some time. Live on a farm and have been picking up stuff we might need at farm auctions etc. but think it is time to get really serious. I garden, can, raise goats and chickens.

spottedhorse

welcome our new member by following the link below:
http://www.americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=563&t=5819

revleo

hello all i am a retired marine slash soldier yes i have been i both services and i am looking to get aquainted with fellow oklahomans in the event of SHTF
would be nice to have fellow preppers to contact if things do not go well preferably in our local regions i personally reside in the lawton Ft. SIll area and am looking for like minded individuals to talk fellowship with and perhaps work on contingency plans with for our neck of the woods if any body is of like mind i will watch the forum for you and perhaps we can say a word or two and see how we can help each other

welcome our new member by following the link below:
http://www.americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=346&t=2621

Pearls

New here, but not new to prepping

Would love to add to my lists - I LOVE LISTS.

I love my pantry,

I love my farm.

I love my family.

And I cry EVERYTIME they play the national anthem.

Nice to meet you - Pearls

welcome our new member by following the link below:
http://www.americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=563&t=184&start=315

okiemom76

New to the site and hoping to learn from those out there who have been preparing for much longer than I have. It's not always about the supplies you have accumulated and surviving but, learning to live a completely different life style.

welcome our new member by following the link below:
http://www.americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=563&t=5252

Vintage

I have been into the lifestyle and out of it for many years , many things make it possible and many interferences keep you away! A little about me: U.S.Marine 3 years, Federal Law Enforcement 20 years , hunter all my life , although living in the urban hell keeps hunting down to a minimum, anything else you'll just have to ask! I live in Oklahoma !

welcome our new member by following the link below:
http://www.americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=563&t=5218

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How To Join The Oklahoma Preppers Network

2010-09-15T15:19:00.000-07:00

Come learn survival, preparedness and sustainable living with us!

The Preppers networks are all about volunteering our knowledge and skills with each other. We share ideas, tips and basically network with each other to survive any type of disaster whether natural, man made, or economic. Information that you learn and share with others will help everyone learn how to find "Freedom Through Teaching Others Self Reliance."

Joining the Oklahoma Preppers Network is simple, and most of all, it's Free! To join, just follow these few steps.

1) Register to become a member of the American Preppers Network www.AmericanPreppersNetwork.net The registration page is here: http://americanpreppersnetwork.net/ucp.php?mode=register

2) Once you have your account, go to the index page of the forum and do your first post by introducing yourself in the new members area. http://americanpreppersnetwork.net/index.php

3) Once you know how to do posts, visit the Oklahoma forum and introduce yourself. The Oklahoma forum can be found by scrolling to the lower section of the index page where you will find a list of states, or you can go directly by following this URL: www.OklahomaPreppersNetwork.net

4) After you've visited the Oklahoma forum, follow this link to learn how to join the Oklahoma Preppers Network group:
http://americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=564&t=2738

APN's success depends on your contributions. If you would like to donate to our organization by becoming a Gold Member you can join the APN Gold Members club by following this link:
http://www.americanpreppersnetwork.net/page.php?p=apn-gold-membership&sid=5b241e92a767cdfbe7a345c54dd55127
Gold Membership is only $5 per month. For a list of Gold Member benefits go here

Thank you for your support!

Personal Protection Should Be Part of Your Prepping Plans

2010-07-25T05:19:00.000-07:00

Woman 2, thugs 0 after home invasion
Oklahoma break-in turns deadly when 'victim' pulls gun and fires
Posted: July 24, 2010
11:00 pm Eastern

By Bob Unruh
© 2010 WorldNetDaily

One gun isn't enough.

That was what Linda Smith (a pseudonym) was thinking after two thugs broke into her Oklahoma apartment. One was holding a weapon (she initially thought it was a knife but it turned out to be a screwdriver) at her throat, and the other was pacing back and forth while holding her purse and demanding her money and valuables. She screamed, and was told if she screamed again, she'd be dead.

She was doing as police recommend in robberies – comply with a robber's demands. But her Lady Smith & Wesson .38 special, which she carries by permit, was hidden in her purse – and the purse was being held by one of the attackers.

Then the situation, suddenly, got much, much worse: One of the robbers demanded that she take off her clothes.

"Come on, what are you waiting for," he told her as he started to yank on her sweatpants, trying to take them off.

Here's everything you need to know about firearms and ammunition

Smith pleaded for her safety and distracted the attackers by telling them she would get her money, which was "in my purse."

The robbers inexplicably allowed her to drop to her knees and crawl across the floor to her purse, which the second attacker had dropped.

She reached inside, and the first shot was clear of the muzzle and into the torso of one of the attackers before she even pulled the weapon clear of the purse. Four more shots followed shortly and, in the end, one of the attackers was dead and the second was hospitalized facing a murder rap for having participated in a felony in which someone died.

Smith, in an exclusive interview with WND, explained she comes from a family that believes in self-reliance and courage.

"I choose to carry a concealed firearm, because even though I am immensely grateful for the protection from our police departments, I realize they're not God, so they can't be everywhere at once.

"Deadly situations can happen in the blink of an eye," she said. "If you are not proactive … you are a vulnerable target."

Smith, an Endowment member of the National Rifle Association, said she's carried a gun for almost half a decade, but never dreamed she'd be in a situation where she'd have to use it to defend her life. But she's glad the training she's had over the years kicked in at a time when it saved her from injury, or possibly much worse.

"Ironically, I thought I was really prepared," she told WND. "I remember that night and saw my life flash before my eyes. Darreon Carter, the man who was attempting to rape me, had me pinned down to my couch, with a knife at my throat. I knew I didn't have access to my gun. I thought to myself, I really need to have a firearm for my home, and directly on my person."

Mess left by two attackers shot when they invaded Oklahoma woman's apartment and she shot them. One died. (Photo by Steven Conrad of Conrad Images)

Rachel Parsons, an official for the NRA, said, while Smith's case is among the more dramatic, there are similar scenarios that have been reported. But even more, there are many crimes that simply are not carried out because of the possibility that a "victim" is fully armed, she said.

"We see every day in newspapers across this country times when law-abiding people are able to protect themselves because they have concealed-carry permits," she said.

"Numerous studies [show] having a concealed-carry permit, having a firearm and the ability to use one, has thwarted crime without the firearm ever having been fired," she said.

"The only way to stop a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun."

All the gun laws, regulations, rules, restrictions, plans and advisories in the world are not going to change the fact that criminals have guns, she pointed out.

"By definition, criminals break the law. All of these regulations do absolutely nothing [to stop] criminals," she said.

Jason Willingham, a public-information officer with the Tulsa Police Department, told WND that officers encourage people to cooperate with robbers if they find themselves in the situation of losing a wallet or cash.

"However, if it's a situation where a rape is going to take place, or a kidnapping, we definitely encourage people to fight," he said. "You do not want to go willing. Scream. Make people wonder what's going on."

"Obviously, in this situation she did exactly … the right thing," he said.

While the prosecutor had not yet made a formal decision regarding her case, Willingham told WND that Oklahoma not only has a "make my day" law allowing residents to use deadly force inside their homes, but also a "stand your ground" law allowing force to be used against an attack outside the home.

He said the surviving attacker probably will face a murder charge under a state law allowing that charge when a person embarks on a felony and someone dies.

He said the two perpetrators are "well-known" to the Tulsa police "for criminal activities."

He said he had reviewed the 911 tapes made of Smith's call to police after the shooting.

"It's amazing. She's calm and collected. You always wonder what would happen in such a situation," he said.

According to records, the attack happened early on the morning of July 15, and one of the intruders, Darreon Carter, 18, died hours later in a hospital in Tulsa. The other, Daniel Holman, 23, was facing charges while still in critical condition.

Capt. Travis Yates of the Tulsa Police Department told the Tulsa newspaper it seemed to be an "opportunity crime."

"Somebody saw a woman walking up to an apartment, and they decided to commit a crime, and here we are," he said.

The attack developed only about 24 hours after another home invasion was reported in the area – and that one left a resident dead. Willingham, however, told WND it was unrelated to theSmith ordeal.

On the Tulsa World forum page, Smith came in for virtually unchallenged praise:

* "The scumbags got what they deserved and I hope it is a lesson for the rest of them out there."

* "God bless this shooter."

* "Pay attention to this one. This is what is going to have to start happening to let all these no good punks [know] that you won't stand for it and are taking your freedom back. … You come to take whats [sic] mine 'I will shoot you.'"

* "KEEP SHOOTING!!!"

* "Buy a gun. Learn how to use it. Kill intruders. Any questions?"

* "A perfect example of why we need the concealed carry! this is my kind of woman! fight crime! shoot back!"

* "Lock and load people, it's a different world out there."

* "I love the great equalizer."

* "This story makes me feel all warm and fuzzy."

Smith told WND she had come into her apartment after a late-night run for errands – she keeps unusual hours because of shift work at a hospital. She had one more item to fetch from outside but never got the chance because, within 20 seconds of her entering, the suspects followed.

She recalled with clarity the five shots, including those in which she picked out the attackers even though her boyfriend, black like the attackers, was struggling with them. He had been visiting and came in from the next room after the shots rang out.

He reported to Smith later that one of the attackers actually had a headlock on him when she fired, knocking the assailant off of him.

He had jumped into Smith's defense as both attackers were beating Smith's face and head, trying to knock her out to break her "death grip" on the weapon.

"We need to stand up and we don't have to be victims," Smith told WND. "We don't have to passively stand by and allow criminals to overtake us."

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here.http://americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=196&t=2815#p27688

[quote="SwampRat"]So I built a Trash Can Smoker today. I read a couple of websites on this beforehand. But something you'll learn about me is that I pretty much gotta do my own thing. So I used basic concepts and then added a whole new twist to the Trash Can Smoker idea.

The basic idea behind it is first of all I cut the bottom off the 32 gallon galvanized trashcan. I have a 10 inch terracotta pot sitting directly on the ground to hold coals. I set three bricks around the pot to set the trash can on to allow a little airflow. I was unable to find a grating that would fit. So I got a piece of 24 by 24 inch expanded metal, and cut it to fit. This is wedged in very tightly and makes up for the support lost by cutting off the bottom. I don't think this is necessary, but it's little touches like that, that make it a Tactical Smoker, instead of a Trash Can Smoker. ;) I drilled 2 holes on either side by the handles 9 and 1/2 inches below the rim and 5 inches on either side of the seam. I ran a 15 inch piece of 5/16 threaded rod between holes on opposing sides and secured it with lock washers and nuts. The expanded metal grating fits firmly against these and the sides of the can. OK now for what you don't see. I have a water pan that balances above the terracotta pot to steam and catch drippings. Also you may notice 4 studs sticking from around the rim about 4 inches down, these support another slightly smaller rack that's not in these pictures. Today was just a test run and "burn off". With just that small amount of charcoal (enough to fill an old fashioned charcoal starter), and 2 small chunks of hickory the Tactical Smoker maintained 230 to 200 degrees for just over 6 hours!!!, I lifted the lid a few times to glance inside, but other than that I did not mess with it. One advantage to my Tactical smoker is that if you need to adjust the fire you simply lift the entire can (not the lid) a few inches and set aside while you add wood chips, this causes the heat to stay in the smoker instead of rushing out the top when you remove the lid, or out the side when you open a side hatch. I estimate that I can fit 6 average size racks of baby backs in this, or about 3 racks of baby backs and 3 whole chickens or 2 racks 2 split hens and a bunch of veggies like squash and corn.

Anyway I hope you enjoy this.

For those of you with a sharp eye, yes that is a 1965 Chevy c10 with a Honda 3 wheeler rear end sticking up out of the bed pushed back in the tree line :-)[/quote]
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The Wonderful FoodSaver

2010-05-28T07:08:00.001-07:00

I love my FoodSaver. My hubby bought me mine as a Christmas gift. (I know, he's romantic like that! ) Truth be told though we both really wanted one and they were having a sweet deal thru the survivalblog last year. (And free shipping)
There are tons of ways to use one of these wonderful tools! The one most people are familiar with is the use of bags to freeze meats, veggies, fruits, anything you want to keep air out of.
I had to flip my freezer recently and found several packages of different meats I had put up last year around this time. Still as good as the day it was sealed!
Our FoodSaver came with two rolls of bags, a vacuum hose, a wide mouth jar sealer, and a large and small canister. Well it wasn't long before I discovered how expensive the bags can get. I'm pretty particular now about what I use my bags for. But the use of jars really started getting my attention. If the lid's are good and you get a good seal you can put up all sorts of stuff. I use my old canning lids for this and they work just fine. It also recycles those old lids.
Just think, you can open a fresh can of coffee, pour it in a jar, seal it up and it will retain its freshness. We don't drink alot of coffee ( I know....weird ) so vacuuming it makes good sense.
If you looked in your fridge right now....do you have an onion or peppers or some veggie in a plastic ziplock? You know you do. I use jars to seal up all those type things up in jars and set them in the fridge. They last at least twice as long stored in jars. I hate tossing out fresh veggies because I didn't use them fast enough.
Another wonderful thing to store with the FoodSaver is cheese. I hate it when my cheese starts to mold. Put your bulk cheese in jars and vacuum seal them after each use. You would be amazed at how long cheese will keep like that. With no mold either! I even put up my leftovers in jars and seal them. Again, they keep longer.
I use jars to help with food rotation as well. I have buckets of things stored and when I need to get into some them, I don't really need the whole bucket. So I will fill a jar with dry milk,yeast, or sugar, or salt or "fill in the blank" and reseal the bucket. Then I vacuum the jars after each use.
Eventually you run short on jars!
So here I was using all my widemouth canning jars for storing dry goods. I didn't have (and still don't) a small mouth jar adapter. It set me to thinking. I went surfing the net and finally found a solution. And not just ANY solution. I found a way to not only seal my smallmouth jars, but almost any jar that has a rubber gasket for a lid. Like your spaghetti sauce jars, jelly jars, peanut butter jars. Anything with the rubber seal on the lids. It doesn't matter what weird size lid it is. Even Pace picante jars with their weird shape can be used. The secret is......the large canister that came with my "package" deal. You can buy these separately at their site. You fill your recycled jar, put the lid on it, place it in the large canister and vacuum the air out of the canister. Release the vacuum and take the jar out. The lid should be concave and sealed. It works great and I don't have to forfeit my canning jars. Just be sure to check your jars for a good seal while doing your pantry check. I have found that sometimes,even when using regular canning jars, they sometimes loose their seal. Therefore, I recommend using bands on your vacuumed jars. You don't want a surprise when you go looking for that jar of dried carots!
There are tons of other uses for the FoodSaver, but I will save that for another time!

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Oklahoma Firearms Freedom Act Passed in House and Senate

2010-04-27T08:22:00.000-07:00

"Oklahoma Firearms Freedom Act" Passed in House and Senate

The “Oklahoma Firearms Freedom Act", sponsored by Sen. Randy Brogdon and Rep. Charles Keys, recently cleared the State Senate with a 39-3 vote. It now heads to Democratic Gov. Brad Henry for his signature.

The Oklahoma House voted 81-14 on Tuesday for the “Oklahoma Firearms Freedom Act,” sponsored by state Rep. Charles Key and Sen. Randy Brogdon, an Owasso Republican and gubernatorial candidate.
The bill says firearms, gun accessories or ammunition produced in Oklahoma would not be subject to interstate commerce laws and federal regulations if the items remain in the state. The bill does not apply to certain large firearms and exploding ammunition.
Read more at http://adaeveningnews.com/local/x993513987/House-OKs-bill-to-exempt-fire...

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Before You Go Horse Shopping

2010-04-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

Today I am pleased to share with you an excellent primer on things to consider before buying a horse. My friend WomanWhoRunsWithHorses ( we call her Hoss Boss for short ) over at Hoof n' Barrel is a wonderful source for all things "Horse". Check out her blog and say hello!

Before You Go Horse Shopping

I ran across an unusually written ad on Craigslist last week. As a long time horse owner myself, I found it humorous and enlightening at the same time. Read it below and then I'll point out some things.

For Sale-1000 lb breakfast sausage (10 yr old bay mare) - $300 (southeast Nebraska) I have for sale a nice bay mare. She is 10 years old and is half Arab and half paint. She is easy to catch and gentle to work with. Lifts all feet for cleaning. Very pretty perky ears. Tame and leads and loads easily. No biting or nipping. Teeth in good shape. Recently wormed. Bucks like a rodeo bronc. Nice disposition. Good with other horses. Bucked off my daughter and will be turned into sausage if she is not sold. I will not sell her to someone who is not an experienced horse person. Would consider selling her to someone with a bad mother in law. She does not just give a couple bunny hops, she gets good height and leg extension. If you know a good rodeo contractor, let me know. Would make a nice pasture pet like a lot of other horses are, just not in my pasture. She might make someone a nice brood mare. Very gentle to handle. Just bucks like a banshee. Get some PETA buddies together and save this horse from the sausage grinder!

The author of that ad sounds like he might know a thing or two about horses, but it's clear that his purchase of that particular horse was a mistake from the get go. His frustration, however humorously he expresses it, is very apparent and scenario he describes is a good illustration of how much can go wrong when the right person buys the wrong horse.

Being human, most of us get stuck on that passage in Genesis that says God gave us dominion over all the beasts of the field. Trouble is, most of the beasts have never read Genesis. That's where our innate intelligence comes in. We are (most of us) smarter than the average beast, but we also lean toward being egotistical and self-impressed. We forget that God's other creatures (in this case, the horse) don't automatically know we are smarter and therefore expect us to prove it.

Learning to ride and handle a horse is not like learning to drive a stick shift or a motorcycle. Horses are living, thinking beings with personalities and dispositions as varied as the people who choose to own them. Since the average full-grown horses weighs around 1000 pounds, it's really important that the horse and the horse owner are a good match on all levels ...riding ability, skills and yes, even personality.

If you have never owned a horse before, there are some things you should know going in. Horses need more than food and water to remain physically healthy. We keep all our horses barefoot (no shoes) but their feet still need to be trimmed by a qualified farrier every 6 to 8 weeks. The cost ranges from $20 to $40 per horse for a trim, depending on where you live. If you put shoes on the horse, $60 and up. But shoes only last 6 to 8 weeks too and they will have to be pulled or reset. There's a old saying, very simple but very true, "No feet, no horse." What good is a lame horse ...to anyone? So plan on taking good care of your horse's feet.

Some people have their horse's teeth tended to by a vet or even an equine dentist once or twice a year. There are several schools of thought on taking care of a horse's teeth. I've known people that think it's down right neglect not to have a horse's teeth tended to at least once a year at a cost of around $100. They argue that we have our own teeth tended to, why shouldn't our horse? I am at the other end of the spectrum. I adhere to the 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' philosophy. I don't have my dogs and cats teeth cleaned either. If any of my animals have a tooth problem, I get it taken care of. But unless and until there is a problem, I don't see the point.

Just like your cats and dogs, horses need annual vaccinations. Rabies is required in some states and advisable (in my opinion) in every state. It's a $10 shot, but in most places it is required to be administered by a licensed veterinarian so if all you got was Rabies, it would end up about $75 including the barn/office call. We also give our horses VEWT (Venezualan East-West Encephalitis plus Tetanus) and West Nile which cost a total of approximately $35 and can be administered by anyone. So if you order the vaccinations in single-dose syringes, you will have invested approximately $50 including overnight shipping ...which is about half what the vet will charge you. There are other vaccinations out there but you will have to weigh the risks and make your own decisions. As far as I know, all 50 states require an annual Coggins test. Blood is drawn and sent off to a lab to determine if a horse is infected with what the old-timers used to call 'Swamp Fever' ...more properly known as Equine Infectious Anemia. There is no vaccine and no cure for this mosquito-borne disease. Once a horse tests positive, they are allowed to be retested ONE TIME and if there is a second positive, the choices are euthanasia or permanent quarantine. The cost of the Coggins is about $20.

Other than that, a horse's basic needs are simple. Water, food, forage (hay or pasture) and room to move around. A run-in shelter, usually a two-sided or three-sided shelter where the horse(s) can come and go at will is nice. If you have woods in your pasture, you really don't have to have a man-made shelter . A horse just needs a place to get out of the more extreme elements. Our place now consists of an 8-acre pasture that is approximately 1/3 wooded. The woods provide a wind break, relief from a hard driving rain in the winter, and shade in the summer. There is a catch pond (not spring-fed, but collects rain water) that they prefer over the troughs for drinking water and open sandy areas where they can enjoy a good roll. We have a smaller (approximately 1 acre) paddock in the front of the house that we use when we want to school a horse or if we have rookies over to ride. It has a few trees, a tiny pond (spring fed because it has water in it even now) and a round pen set up in it. Between those two areas is what we refer to as the side yard. It's a sacrifice area meaning the horses have eaten it down to nothing because it's only about half an acre in size. But it is where we keep the horses at night in order to give the pasture grass a rest. We keep a round bale in there for them at night and one round bale lasts our six horses two weeks. These are big rounds, 5 x 5, approximately 1100 pounds each. Horses are not called hay burners for no reason. A horse quality round bale is running about $85 these days because of the ongoing drought. In addition to providing forage and round bales, we feed our horses a pelleted feed twice a day. The amount we feed them varies according to their individual needs. But we spend about $100/month feeding six horses.

Now, in summary, you can expect to spend approximately $1000 caring for and maintaining one horse for one year. It's pretty obvious that owning a horse is an expensive undertaking and the term 'horse poor' might have some basis in truth! But even with the expenses and the physical labor involved in their care, the rewards of horse ownership are indescribable. Take the time to work out all the details so you can provide proper care for a horse and arrange your schedule so you will have time to invest in a true relationship with a horse. Then, and only then, should you start shopping for a horse. ------------------------------------------ Join the APN Forum at www.AmericanPreppersNetwork.net Visit the Oklahoma Forum at www.OklahomaPreppersNetwork.net

Just Do It

2010-04-21T14:39:00.000-07:00

What with the rising cost of food, gas, utilities and more taxes on the horizon what are you doing to prepare for your future? I'm not even talking about your long term future but the near future. If you aren't already preparing isn't it time that you started? For some, just the thought of trying to prepare for the future can be a bit overwhelming. It doesn't have to be. You don't have to have a year's worth of MRE's put back. You don't have to order # 10 cans of food from a mail order store.You don't have to have all the "really cool" stuff you see on websites proclaiming that you simply HAVE to have this product to survive. All these things do have a place in prepping but it is absolutely NOT necessary to start with these type supplies. And it doesn't have to be expensive.
With prices going up in the stores everyday I decided to begin my preps by investing in food. My reason was and is simple. Food prices are going up and they won't be going down. What you invest in your food storage today will save you money in the future. For example, last year a can of tuna was around $0.59 a can around here. Today it is around $0.79 a can. Who knows what it will be next year. You are already ahead of the game if you start now because it WILL be more expensive next year.
You don't have to break the bank either. If you are going to have tuna this week just pick up an extra can. One extra "item" at a time may not seem like much at first but it does add up. When I started working on my food storage I approached it in little steps.

Make a list of meals your family eat regularly and what ingredients it takes to prepare those meals. This is a great place to start. You really want to remember the motto " Store What You Eat and Eat What You Store". For example, if your family doesn't or won't eat Spam why would you want a case of the stuff when there are other things that they will eat instead? We happen to like pinto beans and rice. It's a regular meal for us. So when I pick up a bag of beans or rice I will pick up an extra one for later. This is just an example but I'm sure you understand how this will build up your food storage. These days, if something is not on sale or I don't have a coupon for it I will rarely buy it.

Take an inventory of what you have in your pantry. Could you make it 3 days? 5? If a natural disaster happened and you couldn't get to the store how many days would your food's last? This is a good place to start. Let's say you have 3 days stored. Set your goal at one weeks worth. If you are at 2 weeks strive for 4. It always helps to have some sort of goal.

Prepping doesn't have to be expensive and it definitely doesn't have to be overwhelming. You just have to start..... and what better time than now?

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Oklahoma Militia

2010-04-19T16:26:00.000-07:00

From the website of Randy Brogdon for Oklahoma Govenor (thanks for the h/t Carrie)

There Already is an Oklahoma Militia

Posted Sat, 04/17/2010 - 20:37:33

Recent statements of mine regarding an Oklahoma militia have been misrepresented, taken out of context and are badly misunderstood. I have stated that the formation of and participation in, an Oklahoma militia is legal based on both federal and state law.
However, remarks I made in historical context were inaccurately reported as my personal opinion. Specifically, historical speculation about the frame of mind of the Founding Fathers as they wrote the Constitution was reported as if it were my deeply held belief. Then these misrepresentations were used to distort my true beliefs, while implying that I have violent intentions.
So let me set the facts straight about my beliefs on dealing with the federal government, the role of a militia in Oklahoma, and how best to effect change in government.
Both the First and Second Amendments of the U.S. Constitution protect individual participation in a militia. Membership in such a group is a form of self-expression, so our right to free speech comes into focus. The Second Amendment states, “A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.” Our Founding Fathers were suspicious of big, centralized government. However, nobody can mistake this statement as some sort of right to insurrection.
The fact is that Oklahoma state law already establishes and provides for, an “unorganized militia” as an officially recognized part of Oklahoma military forces.
§44-41. Composition of Militia - Classes.
The Militia of the State of Oklahoma shall be divided into three (3) classes: The National Guard, the Oklahoma State Guard, and the Unorganized Militia.
23. “State military forces” means the National Guard of the state, as defined in Title 32, United States Code, the organized naval militia of the state, and any other military force organized under the Constitution and laws of the state to include the unorganized militia (the state defense force when not in a status subjecting them to exclusive jurisdiction under Chapter 47 of Title 10, United States Code).
These statutes are not part of overlooked or arcane law. The legislature has rewritten this section numerous times over decades, most recently in 2007.
So undeniably, a militia in Oklahoma is not only legal – it already exists as a matter of fact.
No, Oklahoma does not need to activate the unorganized militia. If we ever do, it certainly won’t be to invade Washington, D.C. In fact, Oklahoma’s unorganized militia is prohibited from operating outside the state.
I do plan to fight what I consider to be an over-reaching federal government, but I will do it with the Constitutional tools provided by the framers. For years, I have advocated adherence to the 10th Amendment as a weapon against big government.
As a legislator for much of the last decade I have routinely proposed new law. When enough of my Senate colleagues agree with me laws are changed or enacted, peacefully. Yet, this week, some people seem convinced that I would abandon the democratic process to wage actual war on the federal government which is simply bizarre.
I was saddened that some in the anti-militia crowd can be as irrational and violent as those they condemn. As this story developed over the week, I received as many as a half-dozen death threats, not only directed at me but at my family as well. One unpleasant person said they would only be satisfied when I am swinging from a tree. Hopefully, the thought was fleeting. The threats were forwarded to the OSBI for investigation.
**END**
http://www.randybrogdon.com/blog/2010/april/there-already-oklahoma-militia

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Behind the 8 Ball- Prepping against the clock and on a budget

2010-04-17T08:50:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank Catman of Catmans's Litterbox for this great guest post. Check out his site for tons of great information and some super down loadable files as well. He has a great download section for DIY on lots and lots of subjects. He has put together some great information. It's never to late to start prepping so lets get to it!

Behind the 8 Ball: Prepping against the clock and on a budget.

If you're new to the whole "prepper" movement, welcome! I'm glad you decided to take charge of your life and have made the commitment to provide for yourself and your loved ones.

By now, you have been blasted with information, and I'm sure it seems daunting. Everyone has an opinion of what is most needed, most important, and what is a must have for your provisions.

As you watch the world spin out of control, you feel even more pressed for time, and in this economy pressed for money. It can simply be overwhelming.

Before you sit down and throw your hands in the air in frustration, stop and think for a few minutes.

Take a look around you. Take stock of what you have. Take stock of what is easily accessible to you.

Primarily, people will need three things if something goes wrong with society: water, food, shelter.

If you have access to a reliable naturally occurring water source (spring, artesian well, lake, river, stream, etc.) you can move stored water down in priority. Don't forget setting aside a method to purify (if needed) the water you have access to.

If you already are producing food for yourself, you may, depending on what you are growing move food down a few notches.

Most people reading this will already have some form of shelter.

Do you see where I am going with this? Good!

Evaluate what you have at hand before you start trying to fill in the blanks on the lists of "must haves". What you want to do is prioritize items that you will not have easy access to.

One such example is medications. If someone needs a specific medication, lay in an extra supply. "Losing" your prescription and calling your doctor for a refill is always a method, but also looking to reputable mail order foreign sources for medicines is a possibility as well. You should also look to natural plant based alternatives should your supply run out and resupply is impossible. Do the research now and set several copies of the information you find aside just in case. Make sure you have the ability to identify, collect, and prepare for use the correct plant should the need arise. If the plants you need to treat a specific condition are not native to the area in which you live, make provisions to raise your own.

James Duke - Medicinal Plants Of The Bible
Ahmad, Aquil, Owais - Modern Phytomedicine: Turning Medicinal Plants Into Drugs
Cristophe Wiart - Ethnopharmacology Of Medicinal Plants

Other items that you may not have ready access to are certain "comfort foods" such as chocolate. Having foods that make you feel good, and can lend some sense of normalcy during a crisis, especially to young children, is always a good thing. It will go a long way in maintaining your sanity. Easy to prepare foods, such as canned ravioli, that require a minimum of cooking are also excellent for contending with the early stage of a crisis. Canned ravioli and similar foods can be heated with a small alcohol stove or eaten cold as one prefers or situations dictate.

Alcohol Jet Stove

Look for local replacements for comfort foods. Did you know Carob trees have been planted in many urban and suburban locations as landscaping? Carob is an excellent replacement for chocolate.

Carob or Saint John’s Bread
Maximize your investment by looking for products that have multiple uses which enhance their value. Denatured alcohol is one such item. It can be used as a cleaning solvent, a fuel, and an antiseptic. Don't run down to the local drug store and buy it by the pint. Go down to the local hardware, home improvement, or paint store and buy it in one gallon or five gallon containers. Alcohol is extremely flammable, so make sure you have the ability to store and transfer it to smaller containers in a safe manner. Always have a properly rated fire extinguisher on hand when working with alcohol. Properly ground metal containers when working with alcohol to prevent static discharge. Static discharge can ignite alcohol vapors. If possible, perform your transfers outside away from other flammables.

An improvised grounding system can be made by driving a piece of rebar, un-galvanized steel pipe, or copper rod at least 2 feet into the ground. Four feet is preferred. Pour a cup of table salt around the rod and water into the ground with at least one gallon of water. You can then use a set of jumper cables to connect between the grounding rod and each of the metal vessels containing alcohol.

Plain chlorine bleach is another example. It is a must have laundry aid (even when the world ends, you will still need to do laundry) antimicrobial surface cleaner, and a method of water purification. If you have access to ample water, you may choose to buy granulated pool chlorine (sodium hydrochlorite), which is easier to store than liquid bleach. You can make your own liquid bleach as it as needed. Most plain laundry bleaches are 3-6% sodium hydrochlorite, so to make one gallon of bleach, you would need one gallon of water and about 226 mL (7.5 oz or 3/4 of a cup plus 3/4 teaspoon) of granulated pool chlorine.

Warm the water by simply leaving it in the sun (80-90 degrees F) and dissolve the sodium hydrochlorite in the water. Add the requisite amount of pool chlorine, and GENTLY STIR with a wood or plastic spoon or rod. Don't use metal to stir, and do not cap and shake the container to dissolve the sodium hydrochloride! Wear safety goggles, rubber gloves, and an apron to protect yourself from splashes.

So, you've never owned a gun, but are now wondering if you should? Think of a pump action shotgun from a reputable manufacturer such as Remington or Mossberg. It is a good self defense weapon and can also be used for hunting. Again, maximize the value for your dollar. Don't forget a cleaning kit, and lubricants. If you have never owned or used a firearm, PLEASE take a basic hunter safety course that includes range time. You can find information about these courses at nearly any gun store.

We've all been spoiled by the ready availability of paper towels and toilet paper. What are you going to do when it isn't available anymore?

Many people are saving old phone books and similar as a stop gap measure, but even then, those will run out as well. There are recipes for making one's own toilet paper on the web, but you may not have the time.

In the paint section of hardware stores, and home improvement centers are products often going by names like "Bag O' Rags" or something similar. They contain the leftover material that was used in the production of clothing, or cut up clothing that did not pass quality control. Most frequently, it is plain white cotton material like that found in t-shirts.

These can be washed out and reused many times. These rags can replace paper towels that were used to clean up minor spills. They can also be used for bandages, compresses and even toilet paper.These may also replace certain feminine products that may become unavailable.

As you can see, with some thought, you can make your prepping a bit easier. As time and finances permit, you can expand on your preparations beyond just the basics, but always keep an eye to things that have multiple uses in order to save time and money.

LINKS BELOW

Medicinal Plants Of The Bible link: http://www.sendspace.com/file/uj8e38

Modern Phytomedicine link:http://www.sendspace.com/file/5g4tfo

Ethnopharmacology Of Medicinal Plants link:http://www.sendspace.com/file/vktk43

Alcohol Jet Stove link: http://www.homemadealcoholstoves.co.nr/

Carob or Saint John’s Bread link:http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/carob.html

Fires and DIY Soulitions - Guest Post

2010-04-13T12:46:00.000-07:00

I have a great guest post for you today! I would like to thank Dan Wolfe for sharing this with us. Some great information here that we can all use. Check out his site at Wolfe's Blog.

We had a house fire a few years ago,
and as I continue to pack for the move to the farm, I am amazed at
the amount of junk we have managed to gather since then. Prepping is
all about being prepared for disaster, that includes personal
disasters such as a house fire. Making sure you have fire alarms, and
fire extinguishing equipment that meets safety standards is vital to
being prepared. But, if your like me, there are two things that occur
to me in being prepared against a house fire. First, knowing how to
make your stuff, and second, fire proof the hell out of everything.

So, the most common form of fighting a
fire is either water and/or baking soda. It is important to remember,
and to teach your children, that you never put water on a grease or
oil fire, it will make it worse! Baking Soda should be placed beside
the stove in the kitchen at all times, enough to not only put out a
fire, but also more then is needed on top of that for baking, because
you know that someone is going to use it for that.

Fire can be put out by removing one of
three things. Either the fuel the fire is using to spread, Oxygen it
is using for combustion, or heat it uses to maintain the reaction.
Mason Sand mixed with Sodium Bicarbonate (ratio 3:1) will remove
oxygen and cover any fuel, good for the horses' stables.

Did you know that you can fire proof
paper? It's a simple recipe. Take one cup of Ammonium Sulfate
(Mascagnite for you rock hounds out there), six tablespoons of Boric
Acid (the same stuff you use to kill insects), 4 tablespoons of Borax
(that's your grandmothers laundry soap), and three cups of water. Mix
the ingredients, and then either dip the paper into the mix, or brush
it on. It needs several coats, so let each layer dry out first.

If your thinking of doing the same to
your raincoat or something else made out of synthetic fabrics all you
need is Boric Acid. By the way, for you preppers down in Nevada,
Boric Acid can be found in it's natural state (colemanite), and might
be something to stock up on for long distance bartering. For the rest
of us, we'll have to figure out a way of distilling it from fruit. As
for fire proofing synthetic fabrics just mix one cup of Boric Acid (1
US cup = 236.588238 ml) into one gallon of water
(1 gallon = 3.785 liters). Soak the fabric, and wring out,
then hang up to dry. Redo after washing. If you know how many gallons
is in your washing machine during the rinse cycle this might work as
well.

I'm a total classic camper, I use the
old fashion Coleman lamps and stoves, and still have one of those old
canvass tents, something I am likely not going to be packing for the
farm. But I will likely keep my eye out for another one, or better
yet, make one myself. The cotton canvass is a classic textile, it's
been used for almost a hundred years for those world famous 1950's
tents. Sleeping in a tent made of that thick fabric is better then
staying at a holiday inn in my book. If you want to fire proof
classic textiles like this you should get your hands on some Ammonium
Phosphate (phosphoric acid with ammonia, do not try to make at home)
and Ammonium Chloride (KEEP AWAY FROM ZINC!). Get a plastic bucket,
not a zinc coated one, and put in 48 fluid ounces of water, and mix
in half a cup of Ammonium Phosphate, and one cup of Ammonium
Chloride. Soak your tent in the buck for at least ten minutes, then
wring it out and hang up to dry. Retreat after it rains.

Every year, houses burn down during the
Christmas season. Part of the tradition of Christmas in our family is
getting a real Christmas Tree, part of the hazard of that is the risk
of a house fire from the tree. Non-LED lights get hot, to many lights
on the same circuit can cause the electrical wires to over heat, and
then there is the fireplace giving off sparks, and maybe you have to
use a candle or two if the power goes out during an snow storm. You
give yourself a little more safety by fire proofing your Christmas
tree with some basic mixing in the water you use to keep it green.
Get your hands on some Ammonium Sulfate, more of your grandmother's
laundry soap (Borax), and Boric Acid. Mix up a batch in four liters
of water (about a jug of milk), two tablespoons of Borax, half cup of
Boric Acid, and a full cup of Ammonium Sulfate. Mix, and then spray
the tree down with the mix, and the rest to the water reservoir under
the tree in the stand.

If your looking for land like my
family, there is always the option to build your own home. No home is
100% protected from all things that can happen, not even your dream
fallout or bomb shelter, but a little extra added protection is
always welcome. You can add some fire proofing qualities to the beams
of your house yourself by mixing up a batch of chemicals you can get
at any industrial supply. What you will need is Zinc Cloride (same
stuff we used to make smoke bombs as kids), Ferric Cholride (check
electronic supply stores, it's used for etching circuit boards),
Boric Acid (can be bought at some home improvement stores), Borax
(check your local grocery store). Mix in these chemicals directly
into 2 quarts of water, about half a cup of Zinc Cholride, a quarter
cup of Ferris Chloride, 3 tablespoons of Boric Acid, and 3
tablespoons of Ammonium Phosphate. Use the mix like you are painting
the beams, do four coats for best results. Be careful with the Ferris
Cholride, it's slightly toxic so use rubber gloves.

Lastly what would a post about DIY fire
proofing be without home made fire extinguishing liquid? Your going
to need Sodium Carbonate (try to get 'washing soda' rather then
'baking soda' if you can there exactly the same, but the washing soda
is cheaper), Alum (Yes the same stuff your wife gets for cooking that
you steal to trap bugs in), Borax, Potassium Carbonate (commanly
known as Potash), Sodium Silicate (also known as waterglass, you can
make this by baking soda ash and sand in a kiln if your a ceramic
artist). It is important to start with the Sodium Silicate
(waterglass), mix two cups of sodium carbonate into the waterglass,
then add one cup of Alum, three quarter of a cup of Borax, and one
quarter of potash. Mix it evenly, then three cups of the result into
one gallon of water. Pour this into a hand sprayer, like the ones
used for spraying crops with insecticides. It needs a coarse nozzle.
WARNING: Potash is toxic (internally). Waterglass is an irritant,
avoid skin contact.

If you liked this post on DIY Fire
Proofing, you'd love the book I used to discover all these and more.

The Formula Manual by Norman H. Stark [ Third Edition ] Stark Research Company

- Wolfe

Thanks again for some great information!

Dehydrating Basics (Lets Talk Taters!)

2010-04-08T12:17:00.000-07:00

I was asked if I could explain the drying and rehydrating process. This is my attempt to do so. The question was about potato's but most vegetables use the same process. Blanching times will vary with different vegetables.

When dehydrating potato's, there are several ways to do them. You can slice them for uses like scalloped potato's. You can dice them in small pieces and use them in many different things. You can cut them into french fries as well. You can shred them and use them for hashbrowns. This part is up to you. Peeling your potato's is optional- there are lots of vitamins and minerals in the skins . They look nicer peeled but, again, its up to you.
I will explain the sliced potato's here, but they are all done the same way.
Slice your potato's approximately 1/4" thick. Your pieces should be as uniform as you can make them. This is where a food processor or a slicer comes in handy. I do mine by hand but that's because I don't have either of them! While you are cutting your potato's, put on a big pot of lightly salted water and heat to boiling.

Put your potato slices in a vegetable basket or a French fry basket and drop them in the boiling water. When they start to boil again, let them blanch for for 5-8 minutes. Have a large bowl ready with ice water. Plunge them in the ice water and let them sit for 15 minutes or so. Then spread the potato slices out on paper towels and daub dry.
Another method you can use (I would suggest doing this with things like hashbrowns) is to steam blanch them.

Spray your racks with some vegetable spray and place the potato's as close as you can get them without having them touch. They need air circulation around them. Dry them until the potato's are translucent and brittle. You should not be able to "bend" them. Let the potato's cool down, remove them from the racks and store them in jars or baggies. Try to keep as much air out as you can. This is where my FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer comes in handy. I like to put them in jars and vacuum out the air.

To rehydrate them, place the dried potato's in a bowl or pan and cover with boiling water. Cover the bowl and let them sit for about 20 minutes or until re-hydrated completely. Drain excess water and they are ready to use.

You can dry just about anything. Carrots, peas, sweet corn, green beans, cabbage, spinach, swiss chard etc. I also dry tomato's for use in soups and stews. I like drying green peppers, hot peppers, and onions for use later in the year when these things are out of season.
I have had problems with rehydrating green beans in the past and asked a true drying guru for some help. She suggests blanching and then freezing the green beans before drying. The freezing breaks down the cells so they will rehydrate better otherwise, they will take a couple of hours to rehydrate.

Here are a few ideas for using some of your dehydrated vegetables.

I like to do mixed veggies to use as soup starter. Diced carrots and peas are good together. You can use dried sweet corn (ground up) and add it to flour when making cornbread. Scalloped potato's or au gratin ones. Dried diced potato's make a great hash when mixed with leftover beef and dried onions. Cabbage dices and fried diced bacon and onions or leeks with bow tie noodles is good. Sometimes I add dried tomato's as well. How about cabbage soup with potato slices, carrots, and fried bacon? Hmm, lets see.... pickled beet slices, gingered diced carrots, green pea and boiled egg salad.
Make white bread and roll it thin. Add rehydrated hamburger, carrots, peas, onions and line the bread and make a pinwheel. Let the bread rise and bake. Slice and cover with gravy made from the rehydrating water.

The possibilities are endless. So what are you waiting for?

(thanks to Gen-IL Homesteader from the Illinois Prepers Network for asking about this- I hope I helped a little bit)

Dehydrating

2010-04-05T09:26:00.000-07:00

I was blogging about wanting to try dehydrating foods last summer. I am a frugal shopper.( ok I 'm cheap!) I had been looking for a dehydrator at a thrift store and just never found one ( still haven't) Well, my mom apparently reads my blog. I got a package out of the blue last summer. A Nesco American Harvestor Pro. I love my mom!!

I began drying everything I could think of. I made a few mistakes along the way, but that's how you learn! Imagine my surprise this Christmas when the package arrived and there were 8 more trays and 5 more each of fruit roll up trays and mesh net!

Dehydrating is a great way to preserve food for long term storage. And if you have a vacuum sealer they will store even longer, as moisture is the main reason for spoilage. I vacuum my dried food in canning jars.

One of the first mistakes I made was with drying potato's. I now know that they should be cooked first. Most veggies need to be blanched before drying. Dehydrating isn't exact science. Its easy, but you might have to play around a bit to see if you need to dry foods longer. Sometimes you might just need to make thinner slices. Oh, and the higher the water content of your fruits or veggies the larger you can cut them as they will shrink more during the process.

Lots of fruits can be dried easily. With some like apples or bananas they should be "treated" first. Rinsing them in a lemon water mix will help keep them from turning brown. Dried fruit is a nice addition to oatmeal and works well in store bought cereals as well. My niece gives dried apple rings to her baby to help with his teething. Kids LOVE fruit roll-ups and they are easy easy to make.
For those of you lucky enough to have strawberries,raspberries, blue berries and such- they dry well too!

Did you know you can dehydrate spaghetti sauce? And tomato sauce? Just think of the possibilities! Its alot easier to store spaghetti in a small baggie that that big bulky can and it rehydrates just fine.

The easiest fruits and vegetables to dry are apples, bananas, berries, cherries, peaches, apricots, pears, peas, corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, onion, potatoes, mushrooms, green beans and carrots.

Dehydrating is a great way to save money too! I caught a deal on ten pound bags of potato's for $1.89 a bag. That's half price in my neck of the woods! Well, it is really difficult for the two of us to eat that many potato's before they start to go bad. But with my dehydrator I was able to take advantage of the sale and increase my food preps.
We use alot of onions around here so when I caught them on sale for $0.49 lb I jumped all over it. That week I dried 10 pounds of onions. If you have ever seen the sticker price on a jar of chopped dried onions you know why this one makes sense! For $2.00 I ended up with 3 of the larger size containers they come in. You know, the ones that cost about $4.00 each?
One tip about drying onions ( and hot Peppers) DO IT OUTSIDE! The smell is overpowering. As a matter of fact, onions and peppers are the reason I am still looking for a second dehydrator.

One last thing ... this is one of the best sites I have found on dehydrating. http://www.dehydrate2store.com

Seed Starter Methods

2010-03-30T11:43:00.000-07:00

There are lots of different methods to start your plants from seed. I wanted to share a few here with you. All of them work, and the choice is yours as to which method you like best.

The first method I'd like to show you is the "Baggie" method. MMpaints @ Self Sustained Living shared this one with us on the forums last year. This is my second year using this method and it works out well for me.

I like using peat pellets to start seed in. You can pick these up at most any garden center. They are relatively inexpensive and work quite well. You will need 5 items- 1. peat pellets 2. a shallow pan 3. ziplock baggies (the ones with pleated bottoms work best) 4. warm water 5. Seeds
Place your pellets in a shallow dish with warm water and let them soak for a few minutes until they expand fully. Take them out of the dish and plant your seed in them. (one plant per pellet) Place them in a zip-lock baggie and set them in a warm sunny window. I have found that if you will put four pellets per bag they will stand more easily.

You should see results within a few days. This creates a mini-greenhouse and eliminates the need for watering for awhile.
You can also make your own peat pots using paper towel or TP rolls. Just cut them into sections and fold the bottoms up. Then just fill with soil. These are great because you are recycling and free! These will work with the baggie method as well.

Another easy way to start your plants is by using empty 2 liter soda bottles. Cut the top half of the bottle off. Poke holes in the bottom with section and fill with your soil mix. Sew your seeds and cover with the top of the bottle. You may need to make a couple of cuts in the top half to get it to fit back on.

Now here is one that has me intrigued. I really want to try this one at home folks! Ever considered using your egg shells to start seeds in? This seems great on several levels to me. And talk about recycling and being bio-degradable!!! Crack your egg from the top and save the shell. Rinse it out and poke two or three holes in the bottom.

Fill with soil and sow your seed. You can place three in a 2 liter soda bottle or just set them back in the egg carton until they are ready to plant.

Ok, there you have it. Some simple and effective ways to start your plants from "scratch"! Let's get to sprouting!!!

(Cross-Posted @ Bacon and Eggs )

Spring Challenge

2010-03-27T09:06:00.000-07:00

It's springtime Folks! And springtime means it's time to garden!! More and more people are thinking about putting in a garden this year and there is no better time than NOW. If you have never tried growing anything before then let this be the year you got your hands in a little dirt. You will be surprised at how easy it really is.

I can hear people say..... but I just don't have the room to plant a garden. I am willing to bet you do and might not even realize it. Container gardening is easy and takes very little room. With three or four 5 gallon buckets and a window sill planter on your patio, you can be eating fresh salad by June. There is nothing so good as a salad you grew yourself. Here's my challenge to you. Grow yourself a salad garden! Tomato's, peppers, and cucumber all grow quite well in containers. Lettuce is easy too. I personally like using spinach instead of lettuce but that's a personal preference.

If you are worried about starting plants from seed there are other options out there. Your local nursery can be a great place to begin. You can find everything you need to get started there. I have found that people who work there are most always quite helpful and willing to answer whatever questions you might have. Take advantage of their knowledge, that's what they are there for. This time of year the nurseries are full of starter plants.
When you choose your plants- look for healthy plants with well developed stems. If they look at all "run-down" or "stressed" pass them by. There are several choices with your tomato's as well as your peppers. Cherry tomato's are easy to do but then any tomato will work. This part is totally up to you. So you now have picked some nice plants. While you are there pick up some decent soil as well.

Ok, now you have the basics... lets get started. If you are going to be using 5 gallon buckets you will need to drill several holes in the bottom of them. This is where I toss some smallish rocks in the bottom to help with drainage. Fill your bucket almost completely with the dirt. This is were the fun starts! Take your tomato plant out of the little container gently and loosen the roots just a little. Make a hole in the dirt and stick that baby in up to its first set of leaves. I know it sounds like it might be too deep but trust me here. This will make for a stronger plant. Do the same with your peppers. Cucumbers are another plant that does just fine in a container. Once you have your plants in their new home give them a good watering and sit back and watch them grow! Ok admit it... it wasn't all that hard after all was it?
So what are you waiting for?? It's a beautiful spring day and there is no better time to get started!

Ready Store Review

2010-03-13T08:02:00.000-08:00

Ready Store Review by: Pioneer Living Survival Magazine

Our latest product review is “The Ultimate Ready Evac Kit for 1 Person” brought to you by “The Ready Store (http://www.thereadystore.com)”

We will have to say that we were impressed with the contents of this “grab and go” kit. We think it would be a perfect kit that you might want to keep in your vehicle. It has everything for one person to survive for 7 days.

We tested one of the MRE meals, so simple to make and it even tasted good!

We also tested the backpack fully loaded with the contents on our 9 year old daughter to show that she could carry her own supplies in a time of an emergency.

Although there is a collapsible water container included, we would recommend that you add a plastic drinking bottle for mixing your flavored drink that comes with the MRE.

Reasonably priced, good quality products in the kit, would recommend you have one for each member of your family. Something you should add to your preparedness supplies.

We would give this product 5 stars.

Here is a short video showing the contents and testing some of the products included in the 1 person Ultimate Ready Evac Kit.

Product Features
Free Shipping: No
Supply Type: Grab-n-Go
Supply Duration: 1-Week
Enclosure Type: Backpack
Needs Supplied: Warmth & Shelter, Water & Hydration, Food & Nutrition, Sanitation & Hygiene, First Aid & Medical, Light & Communication, Cooking & Fuel, Tools & Supplies
Situational Usage: Auto, Biological, Earthquake, Electrical, Fire, Flood, Hurricane, Medical, Nuclear, Storm, Tornado
Shelf Life: 5-10 Years
Brand: The Ready Store
Dimensions: 15" x 15" x 15"
Kit Supplies: Food/Water/Equipment
Age Group: Adult
Persons: 1-Person
Product Contents
Enclosure (1 Piece):

(1) Large Internal Frame Camping Backpack
Food & Water (24 Pieces):

(1) 2400 Calorie Food Bars
(6) MRE Deluxe Full Meals with Heaters
(15) 4.227 ounce Datrex Water Pouches
(1) 2.5-Gallon Collapsible Water Container
(1) Potable Aqua - Water Purification Tablets
Warmth & Shelter (8 Pieces):

(1) 2-Person Tube Tent
(1) Emergency Blanket
(1) Emergency Sleeping Bag
(1) Emergency Adult Poncho
(3) 8 Hour Body Warmers
(1) Flat-Fold Stove with 24 Fuel Tablets
Light & Communication (10 Pieces):

(1) Boxes of 50 Waterproof Matches
(3) Emergency Candles
(1) 115 Hour Ready Candle
(3) 12-Hour Light-stick
(1) Heavy Duty Flashlights with 2 'D' Batteries
(1) Solar Hand-crank Radio/Flashlight
Emergency Tools (11 Pieces):

(1) 5-in-1 Survival Aid with Compass
(1) Ready Guide
(1) 50' Nylon Rope
(1) 12-Function Swiss Style Knife
(1) Can Opener
(1) 9' x 12' Plastic Sheeting
(1) Duct Tape - 10 YARDS
(1) Protective Leather Gloves (Pair)
(1) Folding Shovel
(1) Gas Shutoff Wrench
(1) Multi-Function Leatherman Tool
First Aid (4 Pieces):

(1) 81pc First-Aid Kit with First-Aid Booklet
(3) 3M N95 Particlulate Respirator
Sanitation & Hygeine (13 Pieces):

(1) Toothbrush
(1) Toothpaste
(1) Bar of soap
(1) Hand Sanitizer
(1) Comb
(1) Razor
(3) Sanitary Napkins
(2) Tissue Packs
(1) Nesting Camp Cup

(1) Garbage Bag

Suggested Gear

2010-02-14T14:39:00.000-08:00

From Dixie man on Pioneer Living.

Suggested Gear For The 72 Hour Combat Load :

Keep in mind that these are suggestions, and not requirements. If you have an A.O.(Area of Operations), then you should already have a B.O.(Base of Operations). Many of the items on this list can, and should, be left at your B.O. This will keep you from being overloaded during your mission.You're not much good to your team if you're exhausted from carrying equipment that you don't really need.

Rifle,

Should be semi-auto, but rule number one of a gun fight is: "Have a Gun."Should be of a common caliber e.g.. 7.62x39, .308win, .223rem. Military surplus are also perfectly acceptable, but you should bear in mind that ammunition may well become scarce, and 8mm and .303 Brit should be well stocked if you opt for one of these calibers.

Sidearm,

Ifyou choose a secondary weapon, it should be of a major caliber. 9mm,.40S&W, or .45acp for semi-autos, and .38spl/.357mag for revolvers are going to be the most common. Be sure to choose a reliable handgun with a well established reputation. A 1911, 92FS, Glock, or Smith&Wesson would serve you well (as would many others). There are those who will tell you that you don't need a sidearm, but in a CQC(Close Quarters Combat) situation, it will probably save your life.

(Please indulge me while I go off on this tangent, and speak a few words about weapons. Generally speaking, you get what you pay for when it comes to arms. Good guns are not cheap and cheap guns are not good. While you may find the occasional steal of a deal, this is the exception and not the rule. Since you are buying a gun to defend your rights and quite possibly your life, isn't it in your best interest to procure the very best rifle/pistol/shotgun you can afford? If you only plan to spend $100 on your main battle rifle, don't be surprised if it shoots like a$100 rifle. It bothers me to no end when I hear well meaning Patriots complaining about the cost of arms. I am not a dealer, so I have novested interest in the profit margin of the guns we buy, but I do have a vested interest in preserving my own ass. If you are currently without arms, and you are looking at buying that $60 Mauser, that is fine (remember, rule number one of gun-fighting "have a gun."), but you should be saving your pennies to buy something more substantial. I understand all too well that Patriots are more often than not, 'not men of means.' But, even if you are getting by on cornbread and beans, you can still squirrel away funds for that MBR...I did.)

Ammunition,

You should carry as much ammunition as you can comfortably carry.Obviously, weight will be a concern, and while .308win has more punch than .223rem, you will not be able to carry as much of it. Most folks will carry about 200-300 rounds on their combat load. A bare minimum of1,000 rounds should be on hand. If you opt for a sidearm, you should have at least 3-5 magazines (or speed loaders) for your sidearm in your72 hour kit. (On hand means not taken out and shot up unless it is being immediately replaced)

Weapons Cleaning Gear,

For obvious reasons. If you don't keep it clean, it ain't gonna work.

LBE (Load Bearing Equipment),

LBE is what you use to carry your stuff. It is not your pack. Generally it will consist of a belt with suspenders, and you will attach your canteens, magazine pouches/ammo bandoliers, first aid kits, sidearm,etc. Most folks opt for the USGI issued cartridge belt and H/Y Harness or the USGI load bearing vest. There are a multitude of different types of vests, harnesses, and the like (too many to list here). Basically,you need something to carry the gear that you need to have immediately on hand and still keep your hands free.

Pack,

You may well be on the move for a while, so you will need to have some thing to keep your equipment (that isn't on your LBE) in. Most folks use the USGI A.L.I.C.E. (All Purpose Individual Carrying Equipment) pack or the new MO.L.L.E. (Modular Lightweight Load bearing Equipment) pack. A simple book bag will work in a pinch.

Boots,

Be good to your feet and they'll be good to you. Uncle Sugar spends millions of dollars to figure out what boot is best (for the smallest amount of money) for his soldiers. He knows full well that if his fighters feet are fubar (say that 3 times fast) they simply can't fight. Having said that, any boot worn by our combat troops will be more than sufficient. Don't expect to last very long if you plan to fight in a pair of sneakers. Go get a good pair of boots, and don't skimp.

Water,

Without it, you'll go tits up and die, it is that simple. You'll need something to carry it in. USGI canteens can be had for less than $5 each, but they only hold 1 quart, and you can normally fit two of them on your LBE along with all of your other goodies. There are also hydration packs available (Camel Backs). These can be had in a variety of capacities. I have seen them available in sizes up to 72 ounces.

Shelter,

Tent/Sleeping bag. Some may opt to sleep under the stars and save the weight, but if you are in a harsh climate like the desert, a hooch (tent) will keep you from getting baked (it can be used as a lean to during the day to provide shade) or in the north during the long cold winters, a decent sleeping bag will keep you from getting frostbite or hypothermia. This piece of equipment should be left at your B.O.

Food,

You should have at least a 3 day supply in your 72 hour battle pack. MREs are expensive, but they will last a long time. Canned food is cheaper,but it's heavier than an MRE. Another option is Coast guard survival rations. A three day supply of food is about the size of one MRE. They taste like a sugar cookie, and you need about a quart of water to wash down one ration, but they will keep you alive and well nourished.

Uniform,

Most militia folk (at least most of those in organized groups) wear some manner of uniform. Generally they wear some manner of BDU (camouflage utilities) with the pattern determined by their AO (Area of Operations). This is not to say that you MUST use BDUs. Anything that you would wear to hunt in the field with would be perfect for militia use. If you are in an urban environment, street clothes are the best cammo. The point is to blend in using durable clothing that can stand up to extended wear, and is comfortable. Just keep in mind, even in civilian clothing, carrying an assault rifle WILL get you noticed.

Knife,

For Combat purposes this should be of the fixed blade variety, not a folder. A 5" blade seems to be the unspoken standard. The USMC issued K-BAR fills this requirement and is relatively inexpensive. I prefer the USMC K-BAR with the seven inch blade due to it's many utility uses.

Compass,

Preferably the lens a tic, military style with some manner of luminous dial. Along with a compass you should have topographical maps of your AO and surrounding areas.

Entrenching Tool,

AnE-Tool, if you don't know is a shovel. They are available at any camping store or military surplus outlet. If you buy from a military surplus store, opt for the more current tri-folder, vice the WWII style with the wooden handle. The tri-folders are more durable and compact.

Flashlight,

Any size or style, just make sure that it has a second red colored lens to use at night in tactical situations. (just remember, even a red lens covered flashlight looks like a Christmas Tree in Night Vision Goggles).

First Aid Kit,

This is a must. It should contain (at a minimum); Sterile Gauze pads,antibiotic creme, a cravat, any over the counter pain medication, a suture kit, anything else you think you may need. Ready-made F/A kits are available at most camping stores, and surplus shops.

Additional Gear - (Get this stuff as your budget allows). You may or may not need to carry these items with you on your mission, if not, you can leave them at your B.O.

Field Jacket & Liner,

The most common is the USGI M65 field jacket, it is available in woodland and desert cammo patterns. If you got the cash, you may want to look atthe Gortex versions of the jackets. The M65 with the liner will keep you quite warm, the Gortex will do the same and keep you dry at the same time.

30 Day Food Supply,

Hopefully you will have a base of operations, because there is no way you are going to be able to carry a30 day food supply on your back. Same as the3 day supply for your 72 hour kit, it should be nonperishable, nothing that requires refrigeration.

Ammo Cache,

1,000rounds for your primary weapon. This is a bare minimum. You should have as much as you can afford, and keep adding to it whenever your budget permits. If you opt for a sidearm, you should keep plenty of ammo on hand for that too.

Cold/Wet Weather Gear,

For the cold, you'll want to be sure you have some decent long johns to wear under your "uniform," Along with a good pair of poly pro socks to keep your feet warm and dry. For wet weather, you can get your paws onthe old USGI "gumby suits" These are a rubbery rain proof parka and pants set. If you have the money, you may want to look at the Gortex parka and pant sets.

Binoculars,

Admit it, your eyes aren't as good as you think they are. You need a good set of Binos to be able to identify friendlies and enemies at a distance.Stieners are probably the best you can get, but you can get a decent set from Wal-Mart or similar stores for less than $60. If the shit has already hit the fan, always keep these handy.

Body Armor,

Be it a USGI Flak Jacket, or a Level III Vest, body armor is worth its weight in gold for obvious reasons.

Helmet,

Same as body armor, kevlar or steel pot, worth it's weight in Gold. Get one. Use local foliage to break up your outline.

Water Filtration System,

If you are pulling your water from a river and not your kitchen spigot,you need some way to get all of the unknown nasties out of it. If you're in an urban area, you probably won't need this peice of equipment.

Night Vision Equipment,

If you decide to buy night vision equipment, be it goggles, or rifle scopes, don't skimp. Be sure to get 3rd generation technology. 1st generation plain ol' sucks, 2nd isn't much better, but 3rd generation actually works.

Spare Rifle/Pistol Parts,

The loudest sound on the battlefield is not a bomb going off or the be l ch of a machine-gun, but the unmistakable "click" of a hammer dropping on a firing pin without the expected crack of the bullet breaking the sound barrier. You should know your weapon like the back of your hand,and you should know it's weaknesses, and what parts are prone to failure, and have those parts on hand.

Oklahoma Storm 2010??

2010-01-30T05:44:00.000-08:00

What is wrong with this picture?

January 27, 2010 Gov Brad Henry, Oklahoma declares a State of Emergency for all 77 Oklahoma counties as state officials continued their emergency response preparations.

The storm has not even reached Oklahoma yet, and our Governor is declaring a State of Emergency?

Then on Friday, January 29, 2010, as reported by newsok.com:

As heavy snow fell across much of Oklahoma on Friday, Gov. Brad Henry asked the White House to approve an emergency disaster declaration request for all 77 counties.

If Henry’s request is approved, state and local governments will be reimbursed for storm-related expenses, including paying overtime, operating shelters and clearing roads of ice and snow. It also will cover the use of bottled water and industrial sized generators secured from a federal agency.

I find it rather odd that you declare a State of Emergency before a “disaster” has even happened. And for all 77 counties?

If request is approved, reimbursed for storm related expenses? Winter arrives once a year every year. Did the state and local governments forget to budget for possible winter emergencies?

The National Weather Service was warning Oklahoman’s of the coming storm 3-5 days before it hit Oklahoma. Each and every one of us should have been making preparations for possible power outages, icy road conditions, heavy snow falls, (the largest accumulation of snowfall from the storm in was only 8 inches).

Common sense tells me that if a storm is on its way you make sure you have enough food to feed yourselves should you not be able to leave your home. You have enough water stored, should the water system freeze or fail. You have candles, blankets, alternate heating sources should there be power outages. You check on your neighbors, especially the elderly to make sure they make it through the storm. Neighbors helping neighbors.

Governor Brad Henry sets a poor example of Oklahoman’s taking care of Oklahoman’s. He sets a poor example by asking for Federal aid.

Bottom line folks, each and every one of you need to take responsibility for ones own self!

Preppers Herbs for Survival

2010-01-28T10:13:00.000-08:00

Many of the Preppers in Oklahoma are members of one of Native American Tribes located here. This gives us added resources and history to call upon in the case of social collapse, but it comes down to the prepared individual and their readiness more than cultural background.

We, as many around the country are concerned about the Codex laws that plan to make it illegal for us to pick a plant and injest it to aid in the condition of our own health. We natives/ and non-natives alike, DO NOT give permission to any government to attempt to remove our rights to walk upon this planet and live off the bounty of this planet. If the Earth Mother gave her children a plant, then we have the right to feed ourselves with it and to heal ourselves with this plant and that right should be stronger than any countrys laws.

With that said, we see that many of the healing plants on our planet are being regulated to keep citizens of the Earth from being able to grow and injest them. This poses a question: If there were no pharmacies available tomorrow, what herbs would you of wished you had planted today?

As a nurse, herbalist and holistic practicianer for 20 years , of course I have openions on this subject. I want to plant seeds in all here to give thought about what to grow close to you incase it ever becomes neccessary that this is the only source you may have to that medicine. Think Now instead of wishing later. Get a good herbal medicine book and begin collecting what you can.

Instead of beginning by looking at the thousands of herbs one can grow, lets consider this from what are we trying to be able to medicate?

Colds and Flu including bird flu
Tooth Aches
Ailments relating to blood
General Pain
Stress related discomforts
Internal organ repair
Female reperductive issues
Male issues
Anti biotics
Hepititus
HIV
Cancer
Maintaining general health
Healing broken bones
Sprains and bruises

There are many more things needing to be on this list but if you are the leader of your groups medical needs, you would want to have something provided by the earth that you could use to address these catagories.

I am working on compiling such herbs and evaluating which can be maintained in a garden in Oklahoma and which can not. Our weather conditions prohibit some plants from thriving here well enough to meet our medical needs, but some plants need to be established and over three years old before they produce the medicine in its roots. Obviously, when we can no longer go to the pharmacy or herb store and get that herb, we don't want to need to wait three years before we can grow it even if we did have its seeds. We need to plan and practice now.

All preppers need to give this some serious thought. We still have access to some fabulous Chinese medicine plants. Like any area of prepping yourself, you need to practice growing and working with these herbs you pick and become profisient with them before it involves the life or death of loved ones.

I am currently workin on a book on this subject. But don't wait on me. Each who read this needs to begin their own thoughts and training to be better prepared in this area as in all other areas possibly needed in the future.

Gloria Youngdeer

cogg1@sbcglobal.net

Oklahoma Survivalist Network yahoo group

Lee Iacocca Says:

2010-01-27T06:22:00.000-08:00

Remember Lee Iacocca, the man who rescued Chrysler Corporation from its death throes? He's now 82 years old and has a new book, 'Where Have All The Leaders Gone?'.

Lee Iacocca Says:

'Am I the only guy in this country who's fed up with what's happening? Where the hell is our outrage with this so called president? We should be screaming bloody murder! We've got a gang of tax cheating clueless leftists trying to steer our ship of state right over a cliff, we've got corporate gangsters stealing us blind, and we can't even run a ridiculous cash-for-clunkers program without losing $26 billion of the taxpayers' money, much less build a hybrid car. But instead of getting mad, everyone sits around and nods their heads when the politicians say, 'trust me the economy is getting better..'

Better? You've got to be kidding. This is America, not the damned, 'Titanic'. I'll give you a sound bite: 'Throw all the Democrats out along with Obama!'

You might think I'm getting senile, that I've gone off my rocker, and maybe I have. But someone has to speak up. I hardly recognize this country anymore..

The most famous business leaders are not the innovators but the guys in handcuffs.. While we're fiddling in Afghanistan, Iran is completing their nuclear bombs and missiles and nobody seems to know what to do. And the liberal press is waving 'pom-poms' instead of asking hard questions. That's not the promise of the ' America ' my parents and yours traveled across the ocean for.. I've had enough. How about you?

I'll go a step further. You can't call yourself a patriot if you're not outraged. This is a fight I'm ready and willing to have. The Biggest 'C' is Crisis! (Iacocca elaborates on nine C's of leadership, with crisis being the first.)

Leaders are made, not born. Leadership is forged in times of crisis. It's easy to sit there with thumb up your butt and talk theory. Or send someone else's kids off to war when you've never seen a battlefield yourself. It's another thing to lead when your world comes tumbling down.

On September 11, 2001, we needed a strong leader more than any other time in our history. We needed a steady hand to guide us out of the ashes. A hell of a mess, so here's where we stand.

We're immersed in a bloody war now with no plan for winning and no plan for leaving. But our soldiers are dying daily.

We're running the biggest deficit in the history of the world, and it's getting worse every day!

We've lost the manufacturing edge to Asia, while our once-great companies are getting slaughtered by health care costs.

Gas prices are going to skyrocket again, and nobody in power has a lucid plan to open drilling to solve the problem. This country has the largest oil reserves in the WORLD, and we cannot drill for it because the politicians have been bought by the flea-hugging environmentalists.

Our schools are in a complete disaster because of the teachers union.

Our borders are like sieves and they want to give all illegals amnesty and free healthcare.

The middle class is being squeezed to death every day.

These are times that cry out for leadership.

But when you look around, you've got to ask: 'Where have all the leaders gone?' Where are the curious, creative communicators? Where are the people of character, courage, conviction, omnipotence, and common sense? I may be a sucker for alliteration, but I think you get the point.

Name me a leader who has a better idea for homeland security than making us take off our shoes in airports and throw away our shampoo?

We've spent billions of dollars building a huge new bureaucracy, and all we know how to do is react to things that have already happened.

Everyone's hunkering down, fingers crossed, hoping the government will make it better for them. Now, that's just crazy.. Deal with life.

Name me an industry leader who is thinking creatively about how we can restore our competitive edge in manufacturing. Who would have believed that there could ever be a time when 'The Big Three' referred to Japanese car companies? How did this happen, and more important, look what Obama did about it!

Name me a government leader who can articulate a plan for paying down the debit, or solving the energy crisis, or managing the health care problem. The silence is deafening. But these are the crises that are eating away at our country and milking the middle class dry.

I have news for the Chicago gangsters in Congress. We didn't elect you to turn this country into a losing European Socialist state. What is everybody so afraid of? That some bonehead on NBC or CNN news will call them a name? Give me a break. Why don't you guys show some spine for a change?

Had Enough? Hey, I'm not trying to be the voice of gloom and doom here. I'm trying to light a fire. I'm speaking out because I have hope - I believe in America . In my lifetime, I've had the privilege of living through some of America 's greatest moments. I've also experienced some of our worst crises: The 'Great Depression,' 'World War II,' the 'Korean War,' the 'Kennedy Assassination,' the 'Vietnam War,' the 1970's oil crisis, and the struggles of recent years since 9/11.

Oklahoma City - Smokey Red Sky

2010-01-19T21:39:00.000-08:00

APN thanks Barbara (okie B) for this info

Driving home from work today, I noticed that the sky in Oklahoma City was smokey red. That’s not completely unheard of since we have red dirt and sometimes have dust storms, but this was thick and swirly, not typical for a dust storm. So I got home and tried going online and checking the local news to find out what was going on, but nothing. Went to go brush my teeth, and there was no water to my house.

News reports are starting to come in on the local news stations that two things occurred in the last couple of hours. First, there was a fire in a grain elevator at SW 29^th and Robinson, fairly close to downtown. Obviously, this is very bad because grain elevators have a lot of highly combustible grain dust and could explode. As firefighters were working to contain the blaze, they lost water pressure. Crews discovered a water main break at SW 149^th in one of two 72-inch water mains that provide water to most of south Oklahoma City and many neighboring communities. Crews expect that it will take another 3-4 hours for them to divert water to a different 48-inch water main and have asked the community to refrain from using water while they get this done, and pressure will likely be low for a while.

Barbara (okie B)

Bill in Oklahoma

2010-01-17T20:04:00.000-08:00

www.infowars.com

Interested-Participant | A bill has been introduced in the Oklahoma legislature to protect the Second Amendment rights of the state's citizens.

http://www.infowars.com/bill-exempts-guns-from-federal-law/

America Rising

2010-01-09T10:57:00.000-08:00

America Rising: An Open Letter To Democrat Politicians
Ok, I said that I wasn't going to get too political on this site anymore. But this MUST get out. Even liberal voters are now waking up to the truth. Government, Left or Right, is NOT the solution! ONLY self-reliance, dedication, and determination will solve your problems and free you.

Repost this link and video everywhere you can, find copies and update, they are pulling it from sites all over Youtube. They are afraid! So much so that they are infringing upon our first amendment rights. Find other video hosting services that have the same video. Get the word out. You can link to this page if you want, I will make sure I stay on top of this video and replace it with anyone that gets pulled.
http://www.americanpreppersnetwork.com/2010/01/america-rising-open-letter-to-democrate.html

Link to YouTube Page: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=662R2awSwPQ

Congratulations to The Survival Mom!

2009-12-29T19:19:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to The Survival Mom!

A few months ago I was contacted by Jessica Bennett, a reporter from Newsweek, to help her with her article about preppers. One of the things she was looking for was a "suburban prepper" who she could do a one on one interview with, someone who could really explain what a main stream prepper is like. Well, the first person who came to my mind was Lisa from The Survival Mom, and one of our very own bloggers right here on APN, and boy was that a good call! I think Lisa did an outstanding job with the interview! Let's all give her a big congratulations and a thanks for representing preppers in a good light. You can watch the video and read the complete article here: http://www.newsweek.com/id/228428/page/1

I also would like to give Jessica Bennett a very big thank you for allowing preppers the opportunity to be interviewed and recieved a fair and balanced report. I'd be more than happy to work with her again in the future.

As with any major media coverage, one expects the other side to be represented as well. I have no problem with that especially when we got someone as awesome as The Survival Mom representing our side. From the article Jessica quotes Art Markman, a cognitive psychologist at the University of Texas as saying; "Between the media and the Internet, many people have built up a sense that there's this calamity out there that needs to be avoided," Well, no offense to ole Art, but when you got a nice secure cushy job with tenure it's hard to imagine life without food. Just wait till you have a calamity sir, then you'll think twice about what should be "avoided". While I don't wish ill will upon anyone, everyone, eventually experiences a "calamity" of one sort or another, and As Jessica stated at the end of her article: "As for the rest of us, isn't it a little bit crazy not to prepare?"

Anyway, again, lets all thank and congratulate Lisa for the awesome job in the interview, and give a big thanks to Jessica for allowing us the opportunity to give our story.

Re-posted from APN

From www.pioneerliving.net

A sad day!

2009-12-24T08:50:00.001-08:00

America is being mourned the world-over this day...nations around the globe that held America as the great hope of freedom, liberty, justice, and the model for every human being to aspire has been doused by a greedy, power-hungry partisan political apparatus.

Over 233 years of sacrifice for the ideal that we have a federal government "for all the people" has been shattered under the disguise of healthcare. Our warriors by the hundreds of thousands have sacrificed, bled and died for all of America, not just part of America, not just for a few States, nor has America ever asked a few States to pick up the burden of freedom for the entire United States.

A few dishonorable Senators have milked the American people for their own selfish agenda, penalizing the bulk of America to fund special programs within selected States at the expense of citizens of other States. You can read what is evident at this point in the information below...but this is only the beginning of understanding the damage and cost to freedom included in the Senate and House of Representatives healthcare legislation.

I personally condemn, reject, and abhor the selfish action of Senator Bill Nelson, my Senator from Florida, for his despicable action in pursuing special favor for Florida at the expense of the remaining 49 US States.

Whatever happened to "E Pluribus Unum"?

Harry Riley, COL, USA, Ret

Here's some of the "perks" that wavering, unprincipled Senators received as bribes to vote for the Senate healthcare legislation. They must be held accountable with severe repercussions...America must put right ahead of personal gain, otherwise the "United" States of America is gone.
The payoffs ("Bribes") with your money from National Review online:

Sen. Ben Nelson (D., Neb.):

—$1.2 billion over ten years for a permanent exemption from Nebraska's share of the Medicaid expansion. The only state so exempted under the bill.

—Exemption for Nebraska from an excise tax on non-profit insurers.

Sen. Carl Levin (D., Mich.), Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D., Mich.)

—Exemption from the non-profit excise tax for Michigan insurers. Michigan and Nebraska were the only two states so exempted.

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I., Vt.), Sen. Patrick Leahy (D., Vt.)

—$10 billion for "community health centers".

—Protections from cuts to Medicare Advantage beneficiaries in Vermont.

—$250 million over six years in expanded federal Medicaid funding.

Sen. Mary Landrieu (D., La.)

—$300 million increase in Medicaid funding in Louisiana.

Sen. John Kerry (D., Mass.), Sen. Paul Kirk (D., Mass).

—Three years of expanded federal Medicaid funding.

Sen. Chuck Schumer (D., N.Y.), Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D., N.Y.), Sen. Bob Casey (D., Pa.), Sen. Arlen Specter (D., Pa.), Sen. Bill Nelson (D., Fla.)

—Special treatment for Medicare Advantage beneficiaries in New York, Pennsylvania, and Florida.

Sen. Daniel Inouye (D., Hawaii), Sen. Daniel Akaka (D., Hawaii)—
billions in new funding for something called “Disproportionate Share Hospital” (DSH) payments (financed, in large part, by $18.5 billion in cuts to DSH payments in other states).

Sen. Max Baucus (D., Mont.), Sen. Jon Tester (D., Mont.), Sen. Kent Conrad (D., N.D.), Sen. Byron Dorgan (D., N.D.), Sen. Tim Johnson (D., S.D.)

—Higher federal Medicare reimbursement rates for low-population “frontier” states (also qualifying under the bill’s definition of frontier states are Utah and Wyoming, represented in the Senate by Republicans).

Visit Constitutional Emergency at: http://patriotsforamerica.ning.com/?xg_source=msg_mes_network

December Survival tips

2009-12-19T10:28:00.000-08:00

Most of us think we are on top of the basic survivalists issues. We have plans, and kits, and bug out equipment.

December brings lots of emergency potentials to the front. Not only for us but our families and friends that are not as disaster ready minded as we in the group.

Here are some tips to help you keep safe during the holidays. I also want to take the time to wish you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, and Happy Yule .

Thank you to everyone who takes the time to contribute to the groups training and base knowledge.

Here are your tips:

Water, Water, Water your live tree. This time of year Christmas tree fires occur regularly, but they are usually avoidable. Start by trimming the base of the tree a bit and provide plenty of water. Most trees do not get enough, check it several times a day and keep the base filled with water.
Check your lights, especially before placing them onto your live tree. Broken, missing lights and cracked or frayed wires pose an additional fire risk, and a shock hazard. When it doubt, throw them out.
Don’t overload your electrical outlets. This time of year we sometimes get caught up in the beauty of all the lights, but too many into on outlet or on the same circuit can be a serious problem.
Reevaluate your escape plan incase of fire. With the added elements of live trees, candles and many other flammable items it is very important everyone knows how to get out and get out safely.
Now is the perfect time to check your fire and Carbon Monoxide alarms.
When using candles keep them away from flammable objects. A good rule of thumb is if it making the object hot, move the object or put the candle somewhere else.
Many candles come in containers that also get very hot and can burn someone if grabbed or even burn through a wood surface. Make sure children can’t grab them and place the candle on a surface that will not burn. Also remember the pets. If they can, they will get their tails and other parts too close to open flames. If you have nothing else, set your candles in saucers or other non flammable dishware. And put it out when you go out.
Wrapping paper can burn very quickly and cause a quick flash fire. Do not burn the wrapping paper it is not intended for that purpose. Reuse, recycle or just throw it out.
When setting up your tree, keep it at least three feet away from fireplaces, radiators, and other heat sources. I would even try for five feet if possible.
Keep cords out of the way where someone will not trip over them. Don’t use tacks or staples to hang electric cords, and don’t place them under carpets.

Gloria

Hometown’s Safe Seed Pledge

2009-12-14T18:21:00.000-08:00

After looking into the company: Home Town Seeds, I have found then to be in good standing. They have also made a Pledge to everyone (See below). I am looking at there seeds and so far cannot find anything wrong with them nor the company and will now recommended them. I think there seeds will prove to be non-hybrid as stated and so I am welcoming then to our site's.

GMO Policy

Hometown’s Safe Seed Pledge

Seeds are the core of our business and vital to life on our planet. We must protect this foundation as a safe and genetically stable source for future generations. We pledge that we will not knowingly buy or sell genetically engineered seeds. We are not confident in the safety of seeds and therefore will not sell them to our valued customers. We believe they are being released for public use prematurely. More research and testing is necessary to further assess the potential risks of genetically engineered seeds.

What to train on next and monitoring Oklahoma Earthquakes

2009-12-08T06:09:00.000-08:00

We don't get many Oklahoma Earthquakes, so when the USGS center told us we had one on Monday, I was curious about what was going on. I hadn't felt anything, but all things considered it is another temperature we need to keep an eye on. We had been discussing solar flares and how the forecast of very strong flares over the next few years would effect satellites, radio, TV, CB and ham equipment.

Our group met at a library in Tulsa last week to begin our plans for 2010's training schedule.
We had a show and tell of sharing items from our Winter Emergency Car Kits.

I shared the importance of emergency magnetic red flashing tail lights. Shared my story of earlier this year, loosing all electrical very late at night. Stalled on an steep grade hill with no shoulder, in a black truck.

Mother Nature or our guardian angels seem to give us training exercises of their own. After surviving that one, I purchased these lights the next day for my kit. There is an emergency car kit area in Wal-Mart and many other store chains. Red Cross is a brand with lots of good things in that area. Check it out next time you go to wally-world.

If it was our state or country that experienced a similar blackout of electricity, how prepared are you? No gas can be bought if there is no electricity to pump it out of the tanks. Keeping our gas tanks FULL is very important. Keeping at least one extra gas tank of gas stored on your property can become enormously important in preparing for such situations.

But back to yesterdays earthquake:

Check out the site and look at the quakes our planet has experienced in the last 8 days.

http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/recenteqsww/Quakes/us2009pxbd.php

Magnitude 3.5
Date-Time

* Monday, December 07, 2009 at 17:44:25 UTC
* Monday, December 07, 2009 at 11:44:25 AM at epicenter
* Time of Earthquake in other Time Zones

Location 35.559°N, 97.259°W
Depth 5 km (3.1 miles) set by location program
Region OKLAHOMA
Distances

* 3 km (2 miles) ESE (102°) from Jones, OK
* 9 km (5 miles) N (5°) from Choctaw, OK
* 10 km (6 miles) NE (40°) from Nicoma Park, OK
* 26 km (16 miles) ENE (71°) from Oklahoma City, OK
* 310 km (193 miles) N (352°) from Dallas, TX

Gloria Youngdeer
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Oklahoma-survivalists-network/

http://www.meetup.com/Citizens-Emergency-Preparedness-Group-of-Oklahoma/

Show's

2009-12-07T20:07:00.000-08:00

This week

Sanday 6th I will be on" The Road Less Traveled at midnight ET ( Boldvoices.TV) and USTREAM.TV)

The link for the show is http://www.boldvoices.tv. On the upper left of the home page is a channel selector; our channel is 17.

Preppers Podcast airing on Thursday 10th ( http://www.prepperpodcast.com/) with Host Matt

Wen 9th new Podcast (Pioneering Your Way To Freedom) on Pioneer Living. http://www.pioneerliving.net

Friday 11th on The Voice Of Wichita http://www.thevoiceofwichita.com

A letter from Home Town Seeds!

2009-12-07T14:14:00.000-08:00

A letter from Home Town Seeds!

John,
I am the owner of Hometown Seeds. After getting a scathing email from Kat at selfsustainedliving.blogspot.com I have done some research and discovered that this misunderstanding over our seeds started with an email Chelsea, from our company, sent to you. Please allow me to explain.

First, our survival seeds are all non-hybrid and none are GMO. Secondly, the mistake is all my fault. After reading Kat’s blog and then following the link to your own, we were able to put the pieces together.

Chelsea is working in our little company part time. She is a student at a local university helping us build traffic to our website by reaching out to sites like yours. She is not an expert in gardening and relies on me to answer any technical questions. When you asked her if our seeds were Hybrid or GMO, I told her to respond that we sell some hybrid seeds but they are not in the survival seeds, and none of our seeds are GMO. This is obviously not how she responded and had no idea how badly the mistake would be received. I have seen what she emailed back, hence the misunderstanding and negative blog posts. It was there in black and white after all.

We completely agree with the evils of GMO seeds. We do not now nor ever will carry GMO seeds. As for the survival seeds, the whole point is to provide open pollinated seed that will generate seed for the next year as well as food for the family. All seeds in the survival seed packet are non-hybrid.

We have already sent the survival seed package out to you and I would hope you would examine the types of seeds and the instructions that clearly describe each type of seed.
I feel terrible that we have created such a problem. I don’t know what else I can do but accept full responsibility for the what we have done and apologize profoundly, as I have done with Kat.

You mentioned a couple of other concerns that I thought I would address:
1. We are not owned by Ropter Enterprises. Ropter is our young web genius. He is located in California and we are in central Utah. He created our site and has educated us on the day to day updates that are required. It sounds like you have the technology figured out with all of your projects. We are still learning that aspect.
2. We do not drop ship. We are two guys that have turned our hobby into a really fun business. We are not able to raise all of our seeds and have left that to our supplier who is right here in our valley. He has 40 years of experience and has been our mentor in this project. We have used his seeds and it is only because of our relationship with him that this project was possible. This is another reason we can guarantee none of our seeds are GMO.

Again, I am very sorry. I ask forgiveness from you and your readers.

Scott

Scott Peterson, owner
HometownSeeds.com
"More garden for your dollar"

I told them I would test there seeds to make sure they are not GMO’s and do an investigation on there company to clear this up.

John

Pioneer Living

Interesting!

2009-12-06T08:30:00.000-08:00

Just found this on RTR Radio

John Lipscomb of Survivalist Seeds is Now supporting the group and person who has endangered the lives of American Resistance and Militia members
August 01, 2009 By: Freedom Fighter Category: Uncategorized

John Lipscomb of Survivalist Seeds is now connected to a person who has been using liable and slander. The person John is now connected to is a person who is using slander which has now put Georgia patriots lives in danger by possible acts of vigilantism for crimes they have not committed.
Members of The American Resistance Movement and militia in Georgia are the targeted individuals. Also the person Survivalist Seeds is connected to has made false claims in reference to theft as well and has had contact with the person Eric Robinson who plead guilty(11-08) to the Federal Courthouse bombing in San Diego and who goes on trial (08-09).

Support the Resistance. Boycott Survivalist Seeds now.
For more info call 706-394-8019 as we can supply documented proof of our statements.
Again we are prepared to challenge any and all anywhere anytime who take issue with the above information.
The contact info to the company who is connected now to those endangering ARM members.

Just a Note:

2009-12-05T19:30:00.001-08:00

A Reminder from the Oklahoma Self-Defense Act, "A person who is not engaged in an unlawful activity and who is attacked in any other place where he or she has a right to be has no duty to retreat and has the right to stand his or her ground and meet force with force, including deadly force".

GMO Foods

2009-12-03T16:34:00.000-08:00

GM foods

Just to let you all know about GMO:

GMO’s ARE A KILLER

Safety Potential human health impacts, including allergens, transfer of antibiotic resistance markers, unknown effects Potential environmental impacts, including: unintended transfer of trans genes through cross-pollination, unknown effects on other organisms (e.g., soil microbes), and loss of flora and fauna biodiversity Access and Intellectual Property Domination of world food production by a few companies Increasing dependence on industrialized nations by developing countries Biopiracy, or foreign exploitation of natural resources Ethics Violation of natural organisms' intrinsic values Tampering with nature by mixing genes among species Objections to consuming animal genes in plants and vice versa Stress for animal Labeling Not mandatory in some countries (e.g., United States) Mixing GM crops with non-GM products confounds labeling attempts Society New advances may be skewed to interests of rich countries

GM foods?

Environmental activists, religious organizations, public interest groups,professional associations and other scientists and government officials have all raised concerns about GM foods, and criticized agribusiness for pursuing profit without concern for potential hazards, and the government for failing to exercise adequate regulatory oversight. It seems that everyone has a strong opinion about GM foods. Even the Vatican19 and the Prince of Wales have expressed their opinions. Most concerns about GM foods fall into three categories: environmental hazards, human health risks, and economic concerns.

Environmental hazards

· Un intended harm to other organisms Last year a laboratory study was published in Nature showing that pollen from B.t. corn caused high mortality rates in monarch butterfly caterpillars. Monarch caterpillars consume milkweed plants, not corn,but the fear is that if pollen from B.t. corn is blown by the wind on to milk weed plants in neighboring fields, the caterpillars could eat the pollen and perish. Although the Nature study was not conducted under natural field conditions,the results seemed to support this viewpoint. Unfortunately, B.t. toxins kill many species of insect larvae indiscriminately; it is not possible to design a.B.t. toxin that would only kill crop-damaging pests and remain harmless to all other insects. This study is being reexamined by the USDA, the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other non-government research groups,and preliminary data from new studies suggests that the original study may have been flawed.This topic is the subject of acrimonious debate, and both sides of the argument are defending their data vigorously. Currently, there is no agreement about the results of these studies, and the potential risk of harm to non-target organisms will need to be evaluated further.

· Reduced effectiveness of pesticides

Just as some populations of mosquitoes developed resistance to the now-banned pesticide DDT, many people are concerned that insects will become resistant toB.t. or other crops that have been genetically-modified to produce their own pesticides.

· Gene transfer to non-target species Another concern is that crop plants engineered for herbicide tolerance and weeds will cross-breed, resulting in the transfer of the herbicide resistance genes from the crops into the weeds. These "super weeds" would then be herbicide tolerant as well. Other introduced genes may cross over in to non-modified crops planted next to GM crops. The possibility of inter breeding is shown by the defense of farmers against lawsuits filed by Monsanto. The company has filed patent infringement lawsuits against farmers who may have harvested GM crops. Monsanto claims that the farmers obtained Monsanto-licensed GM seeds from an unknown source and did not pay royalties to Monsanto. The farmers claim that their unmodified crops were cross-pollinated from someone else's GM crops planted a field or two away. More investigation is needed to resolve this issue.

There are several possible solutions to the three problems mentioned above.Genes are exchanged between plants via pollen. Two ways to ensure that non-target species will not receive introduced genes from GM plants are to create GM plants that are male sterile (do not produce pollen) or to modify the GM plant so that the pollen does not contain the introduced gene. Cross-pollination would not occur, and if harmless insects such as monarch caterpillars were to eat pollen from GM plants, the caterpillars would survive.

Another possible solution is to create buffer zones around fields of GM crops. For example, non-GM corn would be planted to surround a field of B.t. GM corn,and the non-GM corn would not be harvested. Beneficial or harmless insects would have a refuge in the non-GM corn, and insect pests could be allowed to destroy the non-GM corn and would not develop resistance to B.t. pesticides.Gene transfer to weeds and other crops would not occur because the wind-blown pollen would not travel beyond the buffer zone. Estimates of the necessary width of buffer zones range from 6 meters to 30 meters or more. This planting method may not be feasible if too much acreage is required for the buffer zones.

Human health risks

· All ergenicity Many children in the US and Europe have developed life-threatening allergies to peanuts and other foods. There is a possibility that introducing a gene into a plant may create a new allergen or cause an allergic reaction in susceptible individuals. A proposal to incorporate a gene from Brazil nuts into soybeans was abandoned because of the fear of causing unexpected allergic reactions. Extensive testing of GM foods may be required to avoid the possibility of harm to consumers with food allergies. Labeling of GM foods and food products will acquire new importance.

· Unknown effects on human health There is a growing concern that introducing foreign genes into food plants may have a nunexpected and negative impact on human health. A recent article published in Lancet examined the effects of GM potatoes on the digestive tract in rats. This study claimed that there were appreciable differences in the intestines of rats fed GM potatoes and rats fed unmodified potatoes. Yet critics say that this paper, like the monarch butterfly data, is flawed and does not hold up to scientific scrutiny. Moreover, the gene introduced into the potatoes was a snowdrop flower lectin, a substance known to be toxic to mammals. The scientists who created this variety of potato chose to use the lectin gene simply to test the methodology, and these potatoes were never intended for human or animal consumption. If you beleave that.

On the whole, with the exception of possible all ergenicity, scientists believe that GM foods do not present a risk to human health. But there is to much money to be made, so testing is not impotent.

Economic concerns

Bringing a GM food to market is a lengthy and costly process, and of cours eagri-biotech companies wish to ensure a profitable return on their investment. Many new plant genetic engineering technologies and GM plants have been patented, and patent infringement is a big concern of agribusiness. Yet consumer advocates are worried that patenting these new plant varieties will raise the price of seeds so high that small farmers and third world countries will not be able to afford seeds for GM crops, thus widening the gap between the wealthy and the poor. It is hoped that in a humanitarian gesture, more companies and non-profits will follow the lead of the Rockefeller Foundation and offer their products at reduced cost to impoverished nations, to make more money.

Patent enforcement may also be difficult, as the contention of the farmers that they involuntarily grew Monsanto-engineered strains when their crops were cross-pollinated shows. One way to combat possible patent infringement is to introduce a "suicide gene" into GM plants. These plants would be viable for only one growing season and would produce sterile seeds that do not germinate. Farmers would need to buy a fresh supply of seeds each year. However, this would be financially disastrous for farmers in third world countries who cannot afford to buy seed each year and traditionally set aside a portion of their harvest to plant in the next growing season. In an open letter to the public, Monsanto has pledged to abandon all research using this suicide gene technology, but has not and will distroy and or run the food market with killer GMO's.

Use and Re-Use - Mason Jars

2009-11-30T19:00:00.001-08:00

I think most of us have heard of mason jars. They are mainly used for canning to preserve food.

Here are a few uses for empty jars sitting on the shelf waiting to be used for next years harvest:

* My favorite, Store emergency water, you can never have too much emergency water.

* Use them for leftovers.

* Use as drinking glasses. We have been doing this for years. I think most of my friends think that we can’t afford drinking glasses.

* Useful when making homemade sour cream. (Recipe on our Chuckwagon Chow Page )

* Useful when making homemade butter.

* ½ pint wide jars can be used to start your vegetable seeds indoors then transplant your plants into the garden after the last frost.

* They make a great country vase for fresh cut flowers out of the garden.

* We store dried goods in them as well, dried herbs, dried onions, dried leaks, and dried tomatoes to name a few.

* In regards to the mason jar lids, don’t throw them away after only one use. You can use them more 2 or 3 times while canning and they will seal just fine. The seals and rings should last for years to come when storing water or dry goods in.

Use and Re-Use - Plastic Milk, Water, Juice Bottles

How many plastic jugs and bottles do you throw away every year? I didn’t know the answer to this question either. Until I started re-using them. Now I can answer, almost none.

Here are some re-use ideas for all this plastic:

* My favorite again, Storing Emergency Water. After you have consumed what was in your plastic jug or bottle simply wash, rinse with hot water and fill with water. You never know when the extra water will be needed.

* Re-use your personal size plastic water bottles. Don’t keep buying more. How long do you think a plastic bottle will last? I have read that they last a pretty long time in the landfills.

* Carefully cut plastic milk jugs, plastic water bottles, juice bottles in half to start your seeds indoors for transplanting the seedlings in the garden after the first frost.

* Use the tops you cut off of gallon milk jugs as a portable greenhouse for your delicate seedlings after transplanting into the garden. Just to keep them warm at night until they have established themselves.

* Freeze water in smaller plastic bottles to use in your ice chest. Do not drink the water that has been frozen in the bottles as there have been studies suggesting it is not safe to drink the water once frozen in the plastic.

* Use the larger clean jugs/bottles for storing chicken, rabbit, goat, and duck feed to prevent rodents from eating the feed out of the open sacks in the feed barn. Storing the feed this way also makes it easy when it comes feeding time for the animals.

* Use the bottom half of plastic gallon milk/water jugs as feeders for your small farm animals. (These work well for chickens and ducks, however, in our experience rabbits and goats tend to start eating the plastic once they have finished their meal.

Old-Time Remedies

2009-11-28T06:57:00.001-08:00

Old-Time Remedies

Repellents are often very effective in deterring pests, thereby protecting crops without having to resort to poisons. Now many gardeners will add a few drops of liquid detergent or 1/3 cup of soap flakes per gallon of any spray to increase the spray’s sticking power and effectiveness. You can also get quite inventive by using house hold items like tar paper which repels cutworms and maggots by its odor. Use 4-inch squares of tar paper laid on the ground, with holes in the centers for the stems to pass through, to protect seedlings from these pests. Aluminum foil laid on the ground has been found to be effective against aphids and squash-vine borers. Copper strips placed around a garden is effective against slugs, and crushed egg shells as well.

Countering The Common Insect Pests

Pest and control:

Aphid: Spray with a diluted solution of soapy water.

Cabbage Worm: Dust plant with a mixture of ½ cup salt to 1 cup flour.

Potato Beetle: Dust plants with wheat bran while they are wet.

Codling Moth: Spray with fish oil, or soapy water.

Corn Earworm: Apply mineral oil to the silk just inside the tip of each ear-use a eye dropper. This will repel this worm.

Flea Beetle: Dust with wood ashes to repel.

Mexican Bean Beetle: Spray with garlic or cedar extract to repel.

Thrips: Spray with oil-water mixture.

Home-Made Formulas You Can Make At Home

Soap Spray: Mix ½ cup of Laundry soap to 1 gallon of hot water

This will kill non furry caterpillars on contact as well as aphids. If used on non-woody plants, rinse off with clear water within 1 minute after applying.

Quassia Spray: Boil ¼ pound of quassia chips in 1 gallon of water for two hours, strain the liquid, and mix with three to five parts water. The spray will kill the aphids and caterpillars but is harmless to our good friends the ladybug and bees.
Garlic and Hot Pepper: Steep ½ teaspoon of crushed garlic and crushed hot peppers in 1 gallon of hot water and let sit for 24 hours. Use at full strength on wood plants, this will also repel mosquitoes; dilute 25 percent for annuals and vegetables. Spray repels many chewing and sucking insects.

Glue Mixture: Dissolve ¼ pound of glue in 1 gallon of warm water. Spray trees and bushes to trap and kill aphids, spider, mites, and scale insects.

Cedar Extract: Boil ¼ pound of cedar chips in 1 gallon of water for 2 hours; strain and dilute the liquid with three parts water; spray on plants to repel beetles.

Buttermilk and Flour: Mix ½ cup buttermilk and 4 cups wheat flour with 5 gallons of water. This will kill mites by suffocation.

Note: Homemade sprays tend to be a lot safer than synthetic substances nevertheless, they should be treated with respect. Always wash fruits and vegetables before eating them.

Natural pest control is just part of the balance for the garden or orchard to be healthy. Do not try to eliminate pests completely, since in so doing you would eliminate the food supply of many beneficial insects as well. Try just keeping the number of pests at a minimum so that they do not do serious damage, while at the same time maintaining the predator population that feeds on the pests.

All predators that feed on insect pests should be encouraged in your garden, like garden spiders, lacewing fly, praying mantis, ladybugs, non poisonous snakes, toads, and bats.
Ladybugs and praying mantis eggs are sold by many garden suppliers; both of these insects prey on a variety of common pests.

Organic Soil Prep

2009-11-25T08:13:00.000-08:00

In the fall you might think your done for the year and now that the harvest is over you can relax. Wrong! Fall is a very important time to get ready for next years garden.

First, you need to plow under any remaining plant and add a good amount of manure. One pound per square foot is a good start. Note: If you live in an area with heavy winter rains it might be better to add manure in early spring.

Second, till in any nutrients your garden is lacking like bone meal or wood ash. Soil improvement involves a steady ongoing process like a compost pile, mulch, manure, and any other needs.

Your soil always needs-Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium as well as: Calcium, Magnesium, Sulfur, Iron, Boron, Manganese, Chlorine, Copper, Zinc, Molybdenum, and Carbon just to name a few.

Note: To improve clay soil add gypsum or fresh green manure.

Mulch

This can be a multitude of materials, humus, hay, straw, moss, leaves, or any similar materials. Mulch can encourage worm production which is a must, and it will also condition the soil.

Manure

This will add Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. Blood, Fish scraps, Bone meal will also help.

Wood ash

This will add alkalinity and calcium as well as phosphorus and potassium.

Sawdust

This will add acidity, boron, and zinc.

Leaves

This will add acidity as well as nitrogen, calcium, boron, magnesium, and zinc.

Basic Soil Formula in the fall.

1 Pound of manure per sq foot.

¼ pound of leaves per sq foot.

5 pounds of wood ash per sq foot.

1 pound of sawdust per 100 sq feet.

1 pound of compost per sq foot.

Hay or straw can also be added at this time 1 to 2 inches over the area and let it sit until the spring.

The best way is to let Mother Natures helpers do the work for you during the off-season. You will spread organic matter on your garden, allow chickens and animals to browse on your garden, or add manure and wood ash as well as leaves, compost, grass clipping, and any other trimmings. Let this sit on your garden area until spring.

After the winter has settled the soil, till in at 6-12 inches deep and recheck nutrients with a soil test kit.

If you still need nutrients at this time add very carefully a small amount or you can make a fast supplement by mixing 1 handful of an organic nitrogen source, 1 handful of an organic phosphorus source, and 2 handfuls of an organic potassium source, with 2 gallons of water. Let this sit for 24 hours and mix two to three times.

This will be adequate for about 2400 sq foot of garden space. Just spray or add this nutrient broth to your garden with your regular watering cycle.

Note: You can also do the same for adjusting your ph as well but, only before your planting is started.

re-posted by: www.pioneerliving.net

Did you prep

2009-11-24T07:06:00.000-08:00

In this era of obesity and epidemics, it seems a little strange to talk about potential food scarcity. But here's the hard truth: the abundance we enjoy is utterly dependent on a complex infrastructure of producers and distributors that has multiple stress points. If the trucks stop or can't get through, the shelves of most food stores will empty in less than a week. Government sources estimate that most homes have enough food on hand to get by for three to four days, but this is just sketchy enough that the same folks recommend that you have a three-day emergency supply. Our government was required to stock up on enough food for every person in the United States for three years. Well, gee they don’t have it anymore. So stock it up yourself! And at least 1 years worth…..

It is up to YOU! Not our government to help YOU!

Lord knows, many of us could lose a few pounds, so lower intakes for the short term wouldn't be so bad. Just be sure to keep essentials like vitamins and minerals in your diet. Actually, having to set aside food for a emergency is a great way to get an idea about just how much food -- by weight and volume -- most of us consume.

You are responsible for yourself and your family. I do not think any government in the world can take care of every person in their country. So, I will say again, do not depend on your government for what you are responsible for. Take care of yourself, rely on your- self and in the end only blame your-self if you did not prepare.

Root Cellar Part 2

2009-11-20T08:48:00.000-08:00

Part 2

Understand that by adding plenty of nitrogen to the soil apart from adding plenty of leaves, grass, food scraps, vines, etc., you're doing more harm than good. The soil's nitrogen content is required by the bacteria feeding on organic matter, and, if you're going to give these bacteria a nitrogen feast, it would be very desirable if there's an organic target in the soil other than the roots of your vegetables!

As organic scraps (compost) in the soil are broken down by bacteria, heat is released, which happens to be the magic pill that makes plants grow (or the overdose causing root burn). For, as the heat expands in the soil, it forces its way into roots. As it does so, it pushes along all the soil’s chemicals dissolved in ground water, and, if the root system can accept the molecules, they will be forced further up by the same heat energy, into the stems and leaves.

The more heat in the soil, the more that water and chemical nutrients enter the root system and pass through the stems, and the larger and more-succulent the plants will tend to grow. Of course, heat may be added to the soil in other ways aside from nitrogen-consuming bacteria. Remember this key for your greenhouse, and keep the soil warm. Elevated tables, off the cold floor, are ideal. If there is not enough nitrogen in the soil, nor enough organic matter, heat production will be stunted, and plant growth will suffer accordingly.

If plants take in too much water in relation to nutrients, they will not last as long in the cellar, stressing the importance of a garden soil that drains well. Don't over-water. Clearly, aside from root-cellaring information, you must get a book which discusses soil preparation. Many books on vegetable gardening will include a section on preparing soil, but this section is sometimes too elementary.

Cold storage decreases the natural metabolism of fresh food so that it doesn't age itself into mush. But, of course! For, if adding heat causes plants to grow, removing heat causes growth (all chemical reactions) to be suspended. Aside from infections, fruits and vegetables can be destroyed by their natural respiration process, as the addition of oxygen changes their chemical states into something we don't care to eat. Darn oxygen! It’s great for life, but also has this thorny tendency to oxidize everything into ruin.

In some cases, vitamins are also lost with the said respiration process. Blanching (dipping in hot water), or other treatments, will retard/stop aging. Peas only require one minute in boiling water to stop the aging process, but corn on the cob needs 10 minutes. Most other vegetables fall between these two extremes. Blanching is a good way to save foods that are about to go bad, when no other preservation method is available to save them. However, if you like fresh carrots and apples as opposed to cooked, or partially cooked, ones, build yourself an excellent root cellar.

Cold weather at the garden site at harvest time is a positive factor because vegetables are prone to store more sugars and starch and less water in these periods. Having a lower water content, they are also have more stuff, and this keeps their water content from evaporating as easily on the shelf. Mike and Nancy suggest leaving the vegetables in the soil as long as possible by covering them with 12 to 18 inches of mulch (dried leaves, grass, straw, etc.) to keep them from freezing. As they can be kept in the ground for two to four weeks longer by this method, not only are they skirting deterioration all the while, as would be the case on a cellar shelf, but they are storing up more sugars and starch so that they last longer on that shelf when ultimately placed there.

Freezing is fine for some fresh vegetables and destructive to others (e.g. potatoes). However, you'll want to avoid completely, with all vegetables, the repeated freezing and thawing that can take place in root cellars from warm spell to cold spell and back to warm. You’ll solve that problem if you build a section of your root cellar that never freezes during these wavering spells on either side of the winter deep-freeze (i.e. on either side of January/February).

With so much time on our hands in the tribulation, there's no reason why we couldn't reap additional benefits by replanting some vegetables in the cellar, after the winter temperatures become too hazardous for their outdoor existence. Of course, don't replant them in the hardened soil floor, but in cases filled with sand or loose soil. This will keep some rooted vegetables for up to one month longer. Or, you can simply heap the vegetables on the cellar floor and cover them with damp, loose soil. Mike and Nancy bury some vegetables in moist saw dust. When needed, they also drape moist cloths over-top of the bushels or crates of food.

Bring most vegetables and fruits into the root cellar immediately after harvesting. Some vegetables, however, such as onions and garlic, need to be dried in the sun for a week before dry-cellar storage. Squash and pumpkins need two weeks in the sun to develop a hard rind, and they need a warm cellar. Sweet potatoes also need to be cured. If you didn't know these basic things, then you need an appropriate book before you spoil your first harvest learning the hard way. Go to http://www.amazon.com, and search for Mike and Nancy Bubel.

Do not clean the vegetables before storage as this will risk bruising. Leave them covered in a layer of dirt if that is how they arrive. Shake off large clumps of dirt, of course, but be gentle. To reduce the clumps, harvest in dry weather. Do not cut the tips of roots off or slice any parts of perfect vegetables as this will invite bacteria to form colonies. Cut off most of the leafy stems of root vegetables to inhibit the escape of water, but leave an inch to keep bacteria from getting into the tops of roots. The tops of beets and parsnips are themselves edible, so take advantage.

If 33% or more of the cellar food is spoiling, something is very wrong. The culprit is likely humidity, temperature, or ventilation. A small percentage of waste is expected so that we should plan on it by growing more to offset. As there will likely be a lack of food in the tribulation, eat the foods that are spoiling first. Cut out the bad parts and discard, or cook them if they are merely bruised. You can even make a nice syrup, sauce, or juice by squeezing any fruit/vegetable that is just beginning to go bad. There are fewer cases of food poisoning from vegetable-based bacteria, though dangerous toxins can be produced from some molds. Beware the deadly botulism. 65% who get it don't live through it. This micro-organism grows where oxygen is absent, and that means there's a chance that every vacuum-packed jar or plastic wrap might contain it. If the can or lid is bloated, don't eat it. If it smells bad, don't eat it. If you're going to die with glorifying God, try to die peacefully.

Make your cellar 12 x 12 feet if you have the gumption. You might make two of them that large, side by side, one drier than the other. Plan on storing enough preserved foods for two years, and view the fresh produce as a bonus. Initially, consider all "strange" Christians who comes knocking for food and shelter as your friends and fellow-laborers. If they won't work and be helpful, however, and all they do is eye lustfully at all that you have, why should you feed them? But if they work, then remember that God did not command Israel to care for widows and the fatherless only, but also aliens. Therefore, a "stranger" that is a sheep is your brother or sister that you must care for; it is the foolish virgins that can be sent away.

The following are root-cellar products that are best stored in cold and very moist conditions (32-40 degrees F and 90-95% relative humidity):

Beets, collards, broccoli, Chinese cabbage, carrots, turnips, radishes, rutabagas, parsnips, Jerusalem artichokes, celery, salsify, celeriac, parsley, Brussels sprouts, leeks, and kohlrabi.

The following products do best in the same temperatures but at a slightly reduced humidity (80-90%):

Potatoes, endive, escarole, cabbage, cauliflower, quince, apples, pears, oranges, grapefruit, and grapes.

The following do best in 40-45-degree cellars with a relative humidity of 85-90%:

Cucumbers, cantaloupe, eggplant, tomatoes, watermelon, and sweet peppers.

Reduce the temperature and humidity of the following vegetables (35-40 degrees and 60-70%):

Garlic, onions and green soybeans in the pod.

The following need high temperatures and lower humidity (50-60 degrees and 60-70%):

Hot peppers, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, winter squash, and green tomatoes.

You're not going to have a separate root cellar for every different category, but you can work around the less-than-ideal conditions in a number of ways. If the temperature is too cold for some foods, take them out and put them in the attic or an enclosed porch. You can also section off the pantry to have two different temperature conditions. Use your wit to create different places around your house which provide the best possible endurance conditions for various crops, and don't forget you'll have prayer-power at God's disposal when all else fails, so long as you make reasonable efforts of your own.

The following list provides the near upper limits of preservation times for vegetables kept in their ideal conditions, so long as they are kept in air-tight wraps or covered with a damp material (saw dust, towel, dirt, etc.). If you know temperature and/or humidity conditions will not be ideal, reduce their shelf life accordingly. Remember that they will often remain edible longer than the times given. Although every case will not be exactly the same, use this list as a guide for determining how many vegetables of certain kinds you will plant.

For example, the guide makes it plain that you should plant lots of potatoes and carrots as they might last 4-6 months, while you wouldn't plant too much broccoli since it keeps in a good condition only for weeks. Where specific times were not available, I have entered "long keeper" or "good keeper," and you can plan on growing lots of these with confidence. Leafy vegetables are not included as they are generally not good keepers in their fresh states, not at all meaning that you shouldn't plant any (you can always preserve them in other ways). Remember also that you can extend the upper limits by keeping them in the garden longer while protecting them from freezes, or by replanting them on the cellar shelf/floor.

Don't be fooled by writers who give carrots, for example, a mere 7-14 days in the refrigerator, even when wrapped in plastic bags. If your not the queen, you can handle eating carrots after months in a cool spot, and if they are rubbery after a certain time, you can boil or fry them up to gather in their vitamins. You can preserve them as relishes in vinegar at any time if you don't like how they have come to taste in the fresh state, or cook them in broths/stews.

* Beets 4-5 months
* Broccoli 1-2 weeks
* Brussels Sprouts 3-5 weeks
* Cabbage (long keeper)
* Chinese Cabbage 1-2 months
* Carrots 4-6 months
* Cauliflower 2-4 weeks
* Celery (long keeper)
* Chives (not a root-cellar crop)
* Collards 1-2 weeks
* Cucumbers 2-3 weeks
* Eggplant 1-2 weeks
* Horse Radish (long keeper)
* Jerusalem Artichokes 1-2 months
* Kohlrabi (long keeper)
* Leeks N/A
* Onions (good keeper)
* Parsnips 1-2 months
* Pepper (good keeper)
* Sweet Potatoes (long keeper)
* Potatoes 4-6 months
* Pumpkin (good keeper)
* Radishes 2-3 months
* Rutabagas 2-4 months
* Salsify (good keeper)
* Soybeans (long keepers)
* Squash 4-6 months
* Tomatoes 1-2 months
* Turnips (long keepers)

The following lists give you an inkling as to how long certain vegetables can keep in the garden soil before the cold weather demands their removal indoors. You'll need a good book on gardening to tell you what their maximum outdoor stays should be. Generally, the less susceptible they are to frost, the longer you can keep the veggies in the ground past their maximums using a 12-18-inch covering of mulch. You might consider building a two-to-three foot wall all around the garden to keep the cold winds off the plants during this period that you are stretching their garden life. This will also keep all your mulch from blowing away, and the wall can even act as a solid foundation for a temporary greenhouse frame that you could quickly erect and drape with inexpensive plastic film, to keep the plants in their garden soils even longer.

Very Susceptible to Frost:

Cucumbers, Eggplant, Lettuce, Squash, Sweet Peppers, Sweet Potatoes, Tomatoes, Pumpkins.

Moderately Susceptible to Frost:

Beets, Broccoli, Cabbage (young), Carrots, Cauliflower, Escarole, Garlic, Onions, Celery, Spinach, Parsley, Peas, Radishes.

Least Susceptible to Frost:

Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage (mature), Collards, Kale, Kohlrabi, Parsnips, Salsify, Turnips

By:
John (the) Christian

http://www.tribwatch.com/index.htm

Root Cellar Part 1

2009-11-19T05:59:00.001-08:00

A root cellar for fall and winter storage is a must for any latitude, even in the far south where cold-season temperatures may not reach a cellar’s ideal levels between 32 and 40 degrees F. But, the simple fact is, the cooler one keeps any food (with few exceptions), the longer it will last. And let us suppose that one has a working windmill, which, as is most often the case, barely provides the very basic electrical needs of a home. Wouldn't it be highly advantageous to place a refrigerator and freezer in the root cellar’s 55-degree winter environment rather than in the 68-degree environment of the house? A 13-degree difference (or more) would translate into a substantial reduction in required electrical output!

You may manage to equip your trib’ home with refrigerators and freezers, but what if the electrical source(s) you plan to use will not hold out? Therefore, for bulk storage under such unreliable tribulation circumstances, a large root cellar or two is a very wise choice, especially when they are not much more than glorified holes in the ground (i.e. not very expensive). If cellars can keep fresh foods edible for even a month longer than the case would be without them, while also providing better summer temperatures for canned and dried foods, cellars will be indispensable additions to all our efforts. But in mid-to-northern latitudes, you’ll get a lot more than a month in fall and winter, for many foods.

A root cellar and cold cellar are the same thing. It calls for high humidity of 80-90% in order to keep fresh vegetables from losing their moisture and shriveling up. A damp soil floor provides this condition best. A concrete floor will provide lower humidity, but this is a better condition for some fresh foods, not to mention dry goods. Some root cellars wisely include two rooms, one with, and one without, a concrete floor.

In cold climates, why not include four rooms: 1) for fresh foods that must not freeze: consider using insulated walls and soil floor; 2) for fresh foods that may safely freeze, and requiring high humidity in the warmer fall and spring seasons: consider soil floors and no wall insulation; 3) for fresh foods in well-sealed containers, and for dry foods: consider painted/sealed concrete floors and walls, with no insulation; 4) for fresh foods requiring some, but not high, humidity: consider an unpainted concrete floor. Having these different options will allow you to shift foods from one environment to another at any one time of the year, to achieve better conditions.

Although fresh foods won't go as far in arid lands, extending the life of dried foods will more than make up for the trouble and expense of building a root cellar there. And since arid regions are ideal for drying foods in the sun, there will be plenty of dried foods to store. Moreover, if you don’s mind wetting the cellar’s floor (and/or walls) from time to time, the cellar can attain some decent humidity levels for fresh foods. Gravel floors provide the best "humidifiers" in such circumstances, especially if the gravel is several inches deep so as to hold a pool of water at the bottom (you walk on a "dry" or unsoaked surface). You won't have to water as often with the deep-gravel method.

While the ideal root-cellar combination for fresh foods is low temperature and high humidity, the worst situation is not, as we might at first expect, high temperatures and low humidity. The worst would be high temperatures and high humidity because this combination is best for nurturing bacteria, mold and yeast. Therefore, ideal cellar conditions calls for high humidity only for its ability to maintain freshness. Low temperatures (above freezing) are then needed to counter the bacteria/mould problems created by high humidity.

If we arrange to lower the humidity level somewhat and sacrifice some freshness in the process, rot would be reduced also, perhaps creating a better survival situation. Indeed, the best combination for dealing with rot becomes low temperatures and low humidity, exactly what’s desired for dry goods not needing any humidity. But so what if an apple shrinks some? If rot doesn't set in while it shrinks, thanks be to the cold temperatures, the only thing it will lose is water. The nutrients will still be in that apple! When we are hungry, safe-to-eat shriveled foods will taste mighty awesome! And any dry food can be made wet again by wetting and/or boiling.

Having no lining in the cellar at all (i.e. just soil walls) would net higher humidity than, say, stone walls. But beware. A mere hole in the ground to act as a root cellar will allow rodents to get in and seize your treasures. If you could properly drape chicken wire on the soil walls, that would likely keep varmints out, but not the insects. And you definitely don't want to use insecticide in your cellar!! Stone, mortared walls are best, I think. Just make sure the walls lean a little outward so that they won't cave into the cellar during the wet season.

Understand that there is a difference between infected and shriveled. Moreover, there is a third condition wherein the fresh food will deteriorate under its own metabolism, rot or no rot, if not blanched/boiled. This is why foods going into cans or jars must first be boiled, even when going into vinegar, salt or sugar solutions where bacteria are killed without boiling.

For a dry cellar housing dried foods, a cheaper and easier alternative to stone or concrete walls is tongue-and-groove plywood and wood studding. To keep rodents with sharp teeth out, metal screening tacked to the plywood, and overlapped a good distance at the joints, would work fine. To keep the plywood from rotting, it should be sealed with an exterior-grade sealer, preferably the black-tar product used on the basements of homes (driveway sealer might work too). This tar should also keep out the ants and termites, but I'm no authority on that one. Take precautions with the toxic chemicals in pressure-treated plywood/studs; you should keep all dried foods in air-tight containers, anyway, and this will also add protection against mice and ants.

By using the studding method, you can easily insulate between some, or all, studs. If it becomes necessary to altar humidity/temperature. You might buy the insulation and install it anyway, whether you think you'll need it or not, as you can always take it out at will. But you won't likely be able to buy it in the tribulation.

The only drawback to the wood-wall method is that water may get in through the joints of the plywood, especially at ground level (near the cellar’s ceiling). But if you build a structure/pantry above the cellar, this threat is much reduced, and even eliminated if that structure is large enough to extend a few feet past the cellar walls. Otherwise, caulk the studs at the plywood joints before applying the plywood to them. Then caulk directly over the joints after screwing the plywood on. Finally, adhere a 4-inch wood strap to each joint using the caulk as a glue, and you should be as water-tight as Noah for the few years that you'll need the cellar. Frost and humidity in the outer soil can do a lot of damage, so screw everything, rather than nail.

Building a pantry over a root cellar intended for fresh foods will protect from freezing; the more northerly the location, the further out from all cellar walls this pantry (or garage) should span. But if you go too far, soil humidity won't be able to reach the walls. I would say that pantry walls three feet maximum from the cellar walls ought to be sufficient for the northern US. That is, if your cellar is 8 x 8 feet, make the pantry 14 x 14 (or 14 x 11 if it’s attached to a house). Keep in mind that this building, acting as the cellar’s roof, is an exceptional sun screen as well as a convenient storage area, in cool seasons, for dried, canned, and even some fresh foods.

Create a perfectly smooth ceiling in the cellar. The more protrusions there are in building materials (i.e. joists and beams), the more area there will be for condensation to form. This means more drips and puddles on your shelves and in your food baskets. You want humidity for fresh vegetables, yes, but in the air, not pools in the containers. If your ceiling structure consists of wood beams or rafters, nail unfinished plywood (definitely not pressure-treated) to form the smooth ceiling. Indeed, leave the plywood natural, and clean it now and then, by spraying a bleach and water solution, so that whatever drips do form won't transport unwanted molds to your foods.

The root cellar needs temperature-control pipes, which are a simple matter to install during the cellar’s construction (not so easy later). Because warm(er) air rises, put an exhaust pipe (6 inches in diameter) at the top of the room, going straight out the ceiling and into the pantry. Or, if that upper room will be heated, run the pipe outside and then upward to avoid the breeze. Screen the top opening of the pipe to keep pests out, and add a solid cover two inches above the opening/screen to keep out bird droppings and rain.

A second air pipe for intake, through a wall near the floor, will allow cold air to enter the cellar as warmer air rises out the exhaust pipe. But as the location of this pipe's exit through the cellar wall will be underground, the pipe will need to rise through the soil and into the atmosphere.

Of course, this intake pipe must reach the atmosphere outside the pantry, where it can catch cold breezes. Put an elbow on the upper end of this pipe, therefore, so that horizontal breezes come straight into the elbow’s opening. But don't glue, screw or tape the elbow on; leave it loose so that it can be turned. Point it north to receive the coldest air currents when you need them. Turn the elbow away from the north if you need to warm things up in the cellar, or if you need winds from other directions for cooling. If you position the intake pipe against the south pantry wall so that access to north winds is unavailable, it'll be your loss.

While in extremely cold or warm spells you can cap this pipe opening (e.g. with plastic film), don't forget to uncap it in due time because you need the constant air circulation in the cellar to remove air-borne molds. When you build shelving, do not let the rears of shelves contact the cellar walls, as this restricts air circulation around shelves and promotes molds on foods. Leave a 3-inch gap between shelf and wall.

When cold wind is blowing directly into the intake pipe, it will also force cellar air into the pantry if the exhaust pipe terminates there. The pantry will also cool, therefore, which may or may not be what you want so that it would be a good idea to provide a removable cap for the exhaust pipe as well. Or, even better, provide a permanent cap that is an adjustable vent so that you can dictate at any time how much it will be opened or closed. If this exhaust pipe can double as a water drain, for the times that you need higher humidity in the cellar, that’s using your noggin. No need to carry a large bucket of water down the stairs, just pour into the pipe from the pantry--but make sure the water pours onto the cellar floor directly, not first on the foods. Or just run a garden hose permanently into the cellar [duh].

Some root cellars are built into hills and buried on three sides with a normal, walk-in door on the unburied side. Others are completely buried and must be entered by stairs (often) accessed through a door in the ceiling. If maximum coolness is a priority, as it will be in the south, then bury the cellar completely. As an alternative to a ceiling entrance, a stairwell can be dug just outside a cellar wall with a landing at the bottom, where an insulated door can be installed leading into the cellar. Keep that door out of the sun, of course, and away from the hot summer breeze.

Much of the information I am using here is from the book, "ROOT CELLARING" (Mike and Nancy Bubel, Rodale Press). Their latest books can be obtained from http://www.amazon.com. Though not intended for tribulation survival, I have been able to get a good bit of pertinent information. The authors claim that with proper management and air conditions, the following foods (in the upper latitudes of the US) can be enjoyed in the following months:

"fresh endive in December, tender, savory Chinese cabbage in January; juicy apples in February, crisp, fresh carrots in March; and sturdy unsprayed potatoes in April--all without boiling a jar, blanching a vegetable, or filling a freezer bag" (page xvii).

For tribulation survival, it is not necessary that we have "tender," "savory," and "crisp" vegetables. Therefore, under the same climatic circumstances, we could have the above-named vegetables one or two months later and still be bouncy-pleased. And if this is the sort of success story that Mike and Nancy got with exposed plants, imagine what we could do with plastic containers, plastic bags, and dried foods in the same cool conditions. We should easily be able to sustain ourselves with crops alone until the next harvest. Yet, we could plan to store foods that last much longer than vegetables in the first place. In all, the authors say that they could keep 33 different vegetables in open storage, and that spells variety on top of survival.

FRESH-FOOD LONGEVITY

It is important to harvest vegetables at their peak, "neither underdeveloped nor past their prime," for best longevity results in cold storage. It is also important to treat them all with special care because the slightest bruising invites molds and bacteria, and these then spread to others vegetables. As soon as you see a rotting or molding section of any vegetable, get rid of it. Slice off the bad part and eat the rest, or throw it into the compost heap. Inspect cellar foods often.

For trib' survivalists, the longer into the winter or spring we can eat our produce, the better. Therefore, it is important to time the final harvest for the latest possible date. As well as planting vegetables as early as possible in the spring to be able to eat them as soon as possible in late spring or early summer, plant a sizable crop later than usual so that their peak arrives only in the nick of time before the killing frost. This late crop will represent your fresh supply of food in winter, so don't skimp.

Plant lots of cool-weather crops in this later phase, not just because they can survive some frost and thereby last longer in the soil than other vegetables, but because, as any good gardener knows, many cool-weather crops taste better after frost has nipped them. Among these are parsnips, salsify (also called "oyster plant"), kale, Brussels sprouts, collards, and Chinese cabbage.

Moreover, rooted vegetables (e.g. potatoes, carrots) can safely stay in the ground past the first frosts too. Every vegetable has its unique period of growth, and you'll need a good book on gardening to know the lengths of each one in order to time their harvests as late as you can. Take into consideration that vegetables planted later than normal will grow slower in the cooler months of fall than the books indicate. Have a garden expert with you in the tribulation!!! Take him on board for free. (All you Christian gardeners without money of your own to buy and build a tribulation refuge, others who are without your skills might give you a room in exchange.)

Some factors in the gardening department add to storage life. For example, potatoes grown in sandy soils last longer in storage than those grown in heavy soils. According to studies, both fruits and vegetables grown in soil with high potash levels store better and longer than others. Wood ashes, which should be in abundant supply for most trib' survivors, are a good source of potash. Manure is also a good source of potassium. So store the ashes all winter long where the wind won't blow them away, and any manure your animals provide can be collected at the first thaw, but don't over-dose your garden soil. You might think that adding fertilizer generously is good, but while you get larger yields, high levels of nitrogen will increase the rate at which some vegetables age, even after they've been picked, thus reducing their cellar shelf life.

Pemmican Indian food

2009-11-18T06:01:00.000-08:00

The North American Indians invented pemmican as a condensed food for long over land journeys and winters.The lean meat of animals such as buffalo, elk and deer, was cut in thin slices and dried over a slow fire, or by the hot sun. Then it was pounded to shreds between two stones. The pounded meat was mixed with an equal quantity of boiling fat from the suet (inside fat), and packed in bags or baskets. Eaten cold, it is nearly tasteless at first but the flavor develops as it is chewed.

Some Indians added berries or wild cherries. Admiral Peary and his men ate it cold - one-half pound twice a day. He wrote that it was the only food for Eskimo dogs on a long Polar journey and: "Of all foods I am acquainted with, pemmican is the only one that a man can eat twice a day for 365 days and have the last mouthful taste as good as the first."

Men forced to live solely on salted meats, bread and cereals, suffered and died from scurvy: a disease which results from the lack of Vitamin C. Men who live on pemmican have no scurvy. It is unequaled for compactness, lightness, wholesomeness, palatability and sustaining power.

Home-Made Pemmican

Pemmican may be one of the world's perfect food. It is pure protein,fat, and carbohydrate in perfect ratio. It gives the body the densest nutritional value in a simple, hand-feeding manner. Its high energy ingredients keeps one from being hungry yet feeds the body everything it needs.

Meatless Pemmican

1/2 cup raisins

1/2 cup dried pumpkin or squash

1/2 cup peanuts

1/2 cup acorn or cornmeal

1/2 cup hickory nuts

1/3 cup honey or maple syrup

1/2 cup dried apples

In order to make sure that the acorn or cornmeal is bone-dry,spread it in a thin layer on a cookie sheet and place it in a warm oven(on the lowest setting) for 15-30 minutes. Then combine the dry ingredients and either chop them with a knife or grind them coarsely through a food grinder. Add the honey or maple syrup and blend thoroughly. Divide the mixture into 1/4-cup portions, press into cakes, and store in the refrigerator.

Suet-Less Pemmican

1 cup beef

1 cup dried berries

1 cup crushed nuts of any kind

2 tea-spoons honey

1/4 cup peanut butter

Grind (or pound) the dried meat to a mealy powder. Add the dried berries or nuts. Heat the honey and peanut butter until softened. Blend.When cooled, store in a plastic bag in a cool, dry place.

Citizens Emergency Preparedness Group of Oklahoma

2009-11-17T01:43:00.000-08:00

Members of the Oklahoma Survivalist Network have formed a meetup group and named it the Citizens Emergency Preparedness Group of Oklahoma. They will meet monthly offering face to face training and invite guest speakers. We are all excited about advancing our education potential to this higher level.

Due to the diversity of our, now over 100, members adds much to our online discussion. This week we all when shopping for emergency generators. Reviewing brands, prices, and exploring how to estimate our serge watt needs. With several already owning generators and able to answer questions with their own experiences helped the rest make better decisions.

No matter where you live, you can benefit from the online sharing of the yahoo group Oklahoma survivalist network. We plan to rotate the face to face meetings of our new meetup group around the state. We are beginning in the Tulsa area as quite a few members live within easy driving distance to that area.

Gloria Youngdeer
Group Organizer

Solar Electric Hybrid Vehicles for TEOTWAWKI

2009-11-16T10:33:00.000-08:00

Guest Post sent to us from Pete Montgomery

Solar Electric Vehicles for TEOTWAWKI, by Pete Montgomery
As first appeared on www.survivalblog.com

Having been a “prepper” for more than 25 years, growing up in Florida where you had to be prepared for the inevitable annual hurricane, I have experienced many powerful storms, with the associated loss of power and the joy of waiting in line for gasoline. These experiences have cultivated a growing interest in solar power and how it relates to providing power in an emergency situation. Until recently photovoltaic (PV) power solutions were out of reach and electric transportation was just a pipe dream. I always wished that I could have a motor vehicle that didn’t depend on the “grid” for its power, i.e. gas, diesel, bio-diesel, ethanol, etc. With recent advances in PV technology and electric vehicle technologies, that wish is now a reality.
In the mind of the “prepper”, PV power has always been a viable means of providing power to his or her retreat, dating back as far as the early 1970s. Early visionaries put largely inefficient banks of PV panels on their homes or barns to utilize the sun’s endless power. However, back then, the primary drawback was the enormous price tag and limited power that first generation PV panels produced. Until recently PV options have remained principally out of reach; however, with the advancements in solar technology and falling prices, as well as tremendous increase in quality and efficiency of PV panels, energy directly from the sun is now reliable and affordable for the average consumer.
With never-to-be-seen-again Federal Tax incentives, PVs are certainly worth a closer look. Just think of the uses for solar on the family farm/retreat or even the home in the suburbs. Power the well, produce all the power needed for the home and sell what you don’t need back to the grid for peak prices. The uses are virtually endless around the home but what about getting around on the homestead? Why not take advantage of the sun’s limitless power with the vehicle you drive? I’m not talking about those fancy space-age looking gizmos that you’ve seen gliding along on the Salt Flats someplace in Utah. We have developed something more functional and far more cost effective for the average person or family that wants an alternative means of transportation.
The new PV vehicles that are being produced by several manufacturers in the US are classified by the IRS as Low Speed Vehicles (LSVs), most of which can be used on any road, meaning, any public road that is posted 35 mph or under and allowed by local ordinances. These LSVs are quickly gaining national attention and are completely “Street Legal”. Likewise, there is an “off-road” or ATV classification of the LSV, which can be driven on or off-road while still qualifying as a “Street Legal” LSV. You must be a licensed driver to operate a LSV on any public roadway.
The uses for this type of vehicle on the retreat are endless, not to mention they are a lot of fun to drive. What’s even better is the “fill up” is free; all you have to do is park your LSV in the sun to let it recharge, free of charge. [JWR Adds: Keep in mind, however, that it would take more than two days of full sun to recharge a LSV's batteries that have been deeply discharged. Also, like any other lead-acid deep cycle battery bank, you will need to buy a new set of batteries once every 4 to 7 years, because of inevitable sulfation.]
{PM Adds: to add to what Mr. Rawles stated above, we currently have an LSV test vehicle that has a set of six year olds batteries. These batteries currently test as new. With the solar panel constantly trickle charging, the batteries don’t go into the constant deep cycle discharge, thereby extending the life of the batteries. }
This year I had the opportunity to go to work for Long Drive Solar, LLC a company that markets and sells street legal, PV electric hybrid, low speed vehicles (LSVs) for “on-road” and “off-road” use. As long as you have sunlight, you have reliable transportation.
The product line starts with vehicles that may appear similar to a standard golf cart all the way up to 24-seat trams. These vehicles are powered by strong 5.5 horsepower motors; use Curtis charge controllers and a powerful 48-volt battery bank with eight large 6 VDC batteries, (8-Trojan T-145s, producing 260 amp hours), self-adjusting drum brakes, turn signals, headlights, taillights, brake lights, horn, seat belts, and DOT-approved windshields. The factory installed 210 or 230 watt solar panel is state-of-the-art, giving you higher performance, greater range, and substantially longer operating time between battery charges. Long Drive Solar has a wide range of on and off-road tires for just about any terrain or environment. Every vehicle has a 120 VAC plug-in charger, in case you ever need a conventional charge. However, under normal usage, you’ll find that the sun is all you need to keep your vehicle fully charged and ready to go.
Options include just about anything you can think of including AM/FM radio, CD player, wood grain trim, etc. But the one that I like the best is the 12 VDC to 120 VAC power inverter. This lets you have a 110 power outlet anywhere you can take the vehicle, as the solar panel acts as your own personal portable generator. Most models sold by Long Drive Solar have been certified by the IRS and are GSA approved.
So what’s the difference between a standard golf cart and a Low Speed Vehicle (LSV)? Golf carts are not street legal [in most jurisdictions], and most have a top speed of around 10 mph, whereas the LSVs (by law) must travel between 20 and 25 mph. The golf cart motor is normally just 3 horsepower, while our LSVs are 5.5 horsepower, and up. There are many additional differences, so when you go to buy your LSV, make sure you get the right vehicle for your money.
Long Drive Solar has several models to choose from but the one that works best for a retreat application is unquestionably the Scout. The Scout is designed for on or off-road or trail use. It has 8” ground clearance to the axles, and an unusually-high 19" ground clearance to the bottom of the deck, off-road knobby tires, brush guards/bumper, front basket, and top rack (if you don’t use solar, however, I strongly suggest the solar option). The Scout comes in 2, 4, and 6 seat configurations and can also have a box body on the back for hauling hay, firewood, garden produce, or other items. This is clearly the way to go for a rural retreat.
One of the most frequently asked questions is how far and how fast will these vehicles go. As previously stated, to qualify as an LSV, the vehicle must go between 20 and 25 mph. As to “how far”, most standard golf carts have a range of about 20 miles on a single charge. Our LSVs are constantly charging the batteries through the solar panel and have an average range of 80-100 miles [in a day] on a single charge. That mileage may vary depending on terrain and driving conditions. Either way, you can count on a minimum of at least a 30% increase in performance. I’ve driven the one I have for several months and I have never had to “plug it in”, not once.
Federal and State Tax Credits
With the Federal and State governments pushing to implement “green technologies”, this opportunity is just right for those interested in buying a vehicle that is a self-sustaining, affordable means of transportation. Although a vehicle like this costs between $7,000 to $10,000 dollars (with a solar top), thanks to Uncle Sam and your local State government you get an early Christmas present in the form of huge Tax Credits. Depending on which State you live in, you could get your “dream-come-true” off-road vehicle for a net cost of zero; that’s right, zero. If you happen to live in Oklahoma, you have the ability to capture up to 120% of the actual cost. Yes, you can actually make money by purchasing one of these vehicles. Other states, like Georgia, Hawaii, and Florida benefit in the 70-80% Tax Credit range. Go to www.dsireusa.org and http://www.afdc.energy.gov/afdc/ to find out what your State offers as Tax Credits.

Note that the largest part of the Federal Tax Credits expire on December 31, 2009 and will likely mot be renewed, therefore, all electric vehicles must be purchased no later than December 31, 2009, to take advantage of this tax credit. Individual State Tax Credits vary, some end at the end of this year, while others extend until 2015. Please check with your local State Tax Commission on the time lines.
So where can you buy your LSV?
Here’s where I get to plug our company and some of our competition. If you go to our web site LongDriveSolar.com, you can find a lot of good info and can take a look at some of our products. Long Drive Solar has its corporate offices in Atlanta, Georgia. We also have a large Dealership in Oklahoma City and dealer representatives located throughout the US. Please give us a call or contact us online. Some of the other companies that provide quality products are Tomberlin Vehicles, Eco E ATV, Bad Boy Buggies and several others. Note: Long Drive Solar is the only company in the US that sells a factory installed solar system on most models of their LSVs.
Beware before you buy: When you go to buy your vehicle, make sure that your dealer provides you with certification from the IRS that their vehicle (and specifically the model you are buying) qualifies for the Federal and State Tax Credits. Make sure you check with your tax accountant regarding any paperwork you will need to get from the dealer, so that you can legally take advantage of the tax credits.
One other important note: All electric vehicles are not created equal with respect to the Federal tax credits. The IRS has many different levels of tax credits on the same vehicle. The amount of credit depends on the amp rating of the battery bank; the higher the amp rating, the higher the credit, so make sure you’re getting the most power and the highest available tax credit for your dollar.
For those of you that lean toward the “green movement”, and believe me I’m all for renewable energy, these vehicles can help with your LEEDS certification points as well as helping to offset your personal carbon footprint.
If you have always wanted a reliable means of transportation with a renewable source of energy it would be well worth your time to take a look at the new forms of sustainable transportation on the market today, as well as the once-in-a-lifetime Tax Credits that could make your solar vehicle absolutely free [after you complete your taxes for 2009]. Believe me, my solar LSV was looking mighty fine when gas was pushing $5 per gallon.
From my perspective this type of transportation is something to consider. Just remember, do your homework and buy the best you can afford because one day your life may depend on what you have invested in.
If you would like to learn more about any of the products or technology talked about here please feel free to contact me at: pmontgomery@longdrivesolar.com

This weeks interests

2009-11-08T03:47:00.000-08:00

We Oklahoma Preppers have worked in several areas of interest this week.

We have researched, discussed, and explored the best options about Citizen Band and Ham operators equipment for homesteads, vehicles, & emergency situations. The research continues but it is pretty clear that more than a single type of radio equipment is needed to meet our memberships potential needs.

We then moved on to discuss whether we should join the world of FACEBOOK. The jury is still out on that but we have put up a site. Whether it stays up is yet to be determined. One of our group members designed our new logo and I added it here to replace my picture. Then comes what to say once it is up. We have imported youtube videos showing different local disaster situations: Ice storms, floods, tornado's, and terrorism. That plus a training video on what one needs in their winter car kit is all we have done. But, that seems like enough for now.

Thirdly, many of us are reviewing our stored food situation. What do we need to replace, increase, and take better care of. Mice and Rats are among those wishing to survive and they can be very creative in their efforts. I got lax, and left the top off a plastic container I thought was high enough to be safe from such critters. I was wrong, and now have 7 less 26 oz containers of dry milk and 4 less containers of dried eggs. My own fault but needless to say, changes was made and more aggressive defenses were put in place.

Looking further into problems relating to our food stores, comes up the ongoing viedual needed about expired dates. How far past expiration is food good for human consumption, and then who else can benefit from it after the dates are too far gone?

One of our members came across a forgotten barrel. In it there was rice. Old rice that had even turning dark and it had old dead weasels in it. You can't put rice out for birds to eat for they will eat their fill, then drink water, and swell up and die. Not Good. Since this member had nothing on his property that could benefit from the commodity, he sent it to the buried compost pile.

Another has found Oats that expired in 2001. Is it still usable? The proof is in the taste. They have decided to fix up some in something like nutrition bars, and see. That is what we are doing today. researching Oats. Reminding everyone that a big black bold pen, making dates boldly is good to try and help us rotate our stores. If the oats are too far gone for humans, at least the animals will enjoy a treat. My chickens love for me to cook them a big pot of oatmeal in the winter.

We have also found it easy to keep stockpiled condensed milk too long. I prefer buying my stored goods in small containers and stagger their purchase to hopefully help to reduce these problems in the future.

The coffee is ready, so I'll get out of here. Log into facebook and try to find our Oklahoma-survivalist-network site.

Keep Preparing and improving the chances for your family to survive no matter what tomorrow brings.

Gloria Youngdeer
Moderator for the Oklahoma Survivalist Network yahoo group

New Preppers guidelines

2009-11-02T15:51:00.000-08:00

Questions come in from what I consider normal average people
that are now beginning to realizing they need to become better
 prepared in other words, New Preppers.

Where would I start?
By educating yourself with a few good informative books.
Discuss what is needed physically and mentally with others
that have been doing this for awhile.

There are lots of different food lists
One that I recommend to cross check your other list ideas is:

http://www.yourfamilyark.org/foodstoragecalculator.htm

As we know, everyone has different likes and dislikes. So common
sense tells us to double what we really like, and leave out what
 we hate.

The basics can be reduced to these categories
Water
Grains
beans
vegetables
sugars
fats and oils
starches
cooking essentials
dry milk products

Old survival books from the 60's told us to have
250 lbs of assorted grains in our shelter
75 lbs of beans
65 lbs of sweeteners
2 gal. of cooking oils
2 lbs of baking powder
2 lbs of baking soda
10 lbs of salt
2 lbs of yeast

That was what each adult needed to help them survive off the
land for a year. We have become more spoiled or sophisticated
since then.

As I said earlier, we know what we like to cook with or eat
and our stockpile should reflect those likes. For example
I like to cook with cream of mushroom soup. So if I had only
one can of this soup to cook with in a weeks time,
I would need 52 cans of cream of mushroom soup.
Simple calculations. I like to cook with Rotel so there is
another minimum of 52 cans.
How often do you want to eat green beans, or carrots?

Our food calculations branches out if we plan on catching fish
 for food. Or hunting deer for food.
Then comes fishing tackle and hunting equipment into our food plans.
You shouldn't calculate that without including your first
aide kits and should you have double the
recommended amount in case something bad happens
or you need to have things to trade
with other survivalists.

Consider those good books and think outside the box
while your options are still all available.
Toilet paper, tooth paste, all the different types of soaps
What are you prepared to do without?
What are you prepared to keep on hand?

How often are you willing to live off your stocked up supplies
and not go to the store for a week? Make your own bread?
Don't wait until you must survive on your skills to work with
your skills and improve your skills. The time is now people.

Thoughts from the Oklahoma Survivalist Network yahoo group

Gloria Youngdeer

Warning

2009-10-29T14:53:00.000-07:00

WARNING....Oklahoma Heath Dept is giving the H1N1 Mist Vaccination to all Oklahoma kids for free with (for now) parents consent at schools around Oklahoma. This is an untested mist that could take 3 weeks to spread H1N1. The company states that it could mutate and/or is untested for such and could spread to others in your household. WARNING..... From the insert on the FluMist website
"FluMist has not been evaluated for its carcinogenic or mutagenic potential or its potential to impair fertility." Three weeks is a long time to quarantine our daughter from the kids that did get the FluMist, and it is a long time to potentially spread the virus.

May God Help Us All............

This week in Oklahoma

2009-10-28T09:53:00.000-07:00

This weeks Oklahoma Survivalist Network have been discussing Caches. What and where to store extra gear at home, and away from home.

We have discussed and agree we all have our vehicle survival boxes and our bug out bag setting ready if needed, and our supply of extra food and other long term needs if the stores are empty.

The home cache is a supply of food and tools in the house that would permit you to exist in your home for a determined amount of time if all outside support ends. If the grid goes down, communications are jammed or dead, the water is cut off, and fuel sources are gone. When would such an event happen, surprisingly enough our standard of living is built on a thin egg shell, it could happen at any time by many different means. Here in Oklahoma we have seen first hand how something like a ice storm, tornado, and flood conditions can wipe out your entire lifestyle in one day.

To prepare for a storm or other disruption of living norms we need to lay in a supply of food, water, fuel, in the home that we can survive for at least one month. We can not continue to rely on the government to provide for us. This was made painfully evident in a ice storm that knocked out our power for two weeks. Instantly there was a run on the stores, and no one had anything needed for survival. The stores shut down due to lack of electricity so even if they had what you needed, they were not open to provide it. The ATM's were out.

For our survival mind set, this was a wonderful exercise to challenge us and see how we can improve our abilities to live well in such conditions.

We learn early that with Oklahoma spring storm conditions, we need to frequently run to the cellar. Most all older homes have one, but for those who have abandoned grandma's farm and moved to the cities have lost much of our ancestors survival knowledge.

So our generation is having to retrain ourselves. The safest one in our city homes is usually an inside bathroom. No windows and a small space with sturdy walls.

converting your bathroom into your safe room and your home into a better prepared facility means you will do some converting.

Emptying the cabinets and

stocking them with water,

water purification devices,
a camping stove
a brand new can of fuel for the stove (brand new because they are sealed for placement on store shelves and usually don't leak unless punctured),
food,
flashlights and batteries,
your family first aid kit,
a couple of changes of "roughing it" clothes,
a battery powered A.M./F.M. (and CB or ham ) radio and a set of walkie talkies incase one leaves the shelter.
your cellular phone

You do not need to purchase special "backpacking" foods for this cache, just your ordinary canned foods, stews, soups, etc. Just consider it a pantry in a strange place. You can keep your bathroom stocks (extra toilet paper, etc.) in a hall closet with only a couple of rolls in the cabinet.

You will notice I did not mention firearms. Special secret caches can be created in the bathroom like removing the medicine cabinet, creating a recessed shelf behind it and put the medicine cabinet back on the wall. So by undoing the mounting screws you have access to what was hidden.

I am not going to pretend to be an arms expert and tell you what you need in your cache for protection. My personal caches have 22 long rifle rifles and handguns for protection. These are choices you will have to make on your own. You will also have to make the decision whether or not to have firearms around if you have children. These are moral topics I do not care to go into.

Water is one of the most important needs in emergency situations. Under normal circumstances I would have a gallon per day per person on hand. If this small safe room is where you will run too in a bad storm or other situations, you might want to change the locks on the door. If the rest of the house blows away, you have your emergency supplies there with you. If you are trapped for the expected 72 hrs before organized rescue arrives, you have what you need there with you.

If you are expecting to still have the house or other building as a shelter then you need to take into consideration the need for insect repellent as you can not always expect the windows to still be intact. Be sure to have this in your first aide kits.

Here in Oklahoma, we have the best of both worlds, chiggers, mosketos, ticks in the summer. and ice and cold in the winter so you need to have your sleeping bags and cold weather protection available.

In the case of storms or other natural phenomena the building may be nothing more than a shell, some standing walls, or just a slab. So, you should also have tents available for setting up inside what is left of your home.

This brings about a point we need to cover. The home cache in areas such as a tornado zone need to take into consideration the possibility of the home being destroyed. So, your first (in closeness to the home) external cache should be right there in your yard. If you examine pictures of disaster stuck areas one thing you will notice is that usually the lawn is still there. Trees may be broken off or bent over but from the grass down is still intact. So, I suggest that you have a duplicate cache in terms of time of survival on the supplies at hand. In other words, if you are keeping a months supply of food and water in the house you should have a months supply of food and water (purification) in the external underground caches in the yard.

Food in the external caches should be of more compact and even portable foods like backpacking meals. The caches in your yard are right there where you can keep an eye on them so the care of a remote location is not necessary.

PVC pipe tubes work well. Besides the tubes you can use a variety of other water tight items.

Just shared thought about a large subject with many different correct answers. If your in the neighborhood, stop by and join us.

Gloria Youngdeer
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Oklahoma-survivalists-network/

Fall of the republic.

2009-10-22T11:33:00.000-07:00

Everyone must re-post this ASAP.

Full Movie of Fall of the republic By: Alex Jones for free......

http://geraldcelentechannel.blogspot.com/2009/10/fall-of-republic-alex-jones-latest.html

Deciding when to hunker down or run for your life.

2009-10-06T12:26:00.000-07:00

My brief answer to the question of why we have BoB's and 72 hr packs, is I figure some scenario could come up where I wish I had a well supplied bag to eather help me get back home after an event, or help me get away from an event.

Deciding when to hunker down and when to run for your life must be answered on an individual case bases.

My longer winded rambling mind says:

Like you, we prepare for as much as we can, and hope we have what we will need. Each scenario has its own list of actions for those that has the option to try and survive. Recently, We have been discussing our bug out bags, our 72 hr kits, probably because the season is changing and they need double checked to be right for the coming season. Like Angelica expressed about her car trunk being her lifeboat against disaster.

My parents were bomb shelter folks in the 50's, my Grandparents were depression era survivalist in the 30's. My Great grandparents were self reliant pioneers in the late 1800's. My Great Great Great grandparents survived relocating to Oklahoma via the trail of tears in 1838. I figure I'm alive because my ancestors worked at being survivalists. Those I know, and many more back before recorded time. I pay attention to the hair standing up on the back of my neck as I suspect them did and more here do too.

Some situations will call for hunker down and some will call for run like hell.

I'm mentally ready for both, but supply wise, and training wise, - there is always room for improvements.

I became a registered nurse in the late 60's. I've lived a Mother Earth New's lifestyle in the 70's & off grid in the 80's along with being a tree hugging environmental activist. :+)

Yes, I would like to be living on a remote farm -- totally ready to be off grid & self sufficient with my 'CLAN' all living in a cluster of homes around a community farmhouse. With orchards, and chickens and meat hanging in a cold room waiting to be butchered. With the smoke house bellowing good smells and a large amount of canned goods all looking pretty in the underground sanctuary. With the younger women and men learning from the older ones just how to butcher or make the bread.

Years ago when I started the Oklahoma group, I was ready to try and find others who wanted the same situation, and have a communal society desiring to create that farm sanctuary. But, after I did a survey, I found that most everyone in this clan, owns there homes and plan on individual survival preparedness. That was fine for any way we can collectively become smarter, more inspired, and better prepared for life's possibilities then we are all part of an important movement.

My hide-out, run-too land, isn't that remote but it is what I could afford to buy. Along with my experience surviving off grid living, and a couple decades of survival / emergency training, unfortunately, also came AGE and as a senior citizen widow, I prepare to stay in my city home unless I am run out.

As to what I am preparing for:...... You can throw a dart at a big wall of possibilities.

Lots of people around the globe, including me, believe our lives will change forever in 2012.

Hopi Elders tell the story of three great rocks falling from the sky, one right behind another and in the long run, only a small number of people survive to carry on. Those who do will need all their wits, for it will be only those healthy, trained, prepared, and lucky that live to experience the challenges .

In the meantime, hurricanes are becoming super storms using the new warmer waters in the gulf, and we are being warned they are expected to do huge damage to both the gulf states, and or up the east coast. Millions of environmental refugees could then pour into our part of the world. Envision what happens to our local area if two million people come here in a week. Then we are ripe for Anarchy taking over because we don't have enough social order to control the masses in panic survival mode themselves.

In the meantime, Those that hate us more than anything else in their existence, believe we are too evil to be allowed to exist, and their god wants them to attack us. Our government openly says we most likely will have a terrorist's nuclear bomb go off here in the USA within the next ten years. Maybe several suitcase size dirty bombs and that brings more refugees if we are not in the immediate danger area.

Meanwhile many cities possibly even entire states have no electricity since our grid is all tied together. The rest of the country ration, among other things, maybe two or three hours of electricity available a day if we are lucky. Meantime, the danger remains for the west coast to experience major earthquakes, and we are told that we are overdue for the Yellowstone volcano exploding. Sending the world into darkness and a deep-freeze for several years.

Yep, Pick one and here we set with the ice caps melting and we watch what is left of our entire coastline, go under from thirty to 60 feet of water. Texas is split in two by the ocean rising and reclaiming its old territory up the middle to Colorado and Florida basically doesn't exist any longer. Every day more refugees come toward the middle of the country looking for and ready to fight for a chance to survive.

A rational realistic Steven King nightmare world? Pretty much. And some think we are crazy for bothering to pack an "in-case bag".

Hope you continue to post.

Be better prepared today than you were yesterday.

Gloria Youngdeer

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Oklahoma-survivalists-network/

Oklahoma Preppers Network News

2009-10-04T10:28:00.000-07:00

Our Prepper group is made up of 91 local households interested in developing an improved level of preparedness for whatever disaster may befall us individually and or collectively.

Our online yahoo discussion group can be joined by clicking clicking on the link at the bottom of our blog posts.

This week we are discussing:
why a members stored well water turned yellow.
Food you can plant in the fall garden.
Guns and ammo.
Bombs, vs Missile attacks and our level of readiness.
and How Lamar finally put his solar cabin design on youtube.
He has a 160 page ebook on how to live off grid for $5.

We Oklahoman's are for the most part descendants of the survivors of the Great Depression Oklahoma style. Our Grandparents and Great grandparents learned many survival lessons during those times and stories have been passed down that relate closely to things we need to know in our time today.

Being part of a Prepper organization means you are ready to actively begin practicing your survival skills before the fact. Not waiting till the sirens go off to start digging a storm cellar
isn't hard to understand.

As founder of the Oklahoma Survivalist network and the sharing here as the Oklahoma Preppers Network, I will share random points of interest that part-time passive Preppers can find interesting as well as the more didicated active preppers might want to add information too.

Till the Next Post

Gloria Youngdeer
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Oklahoma-survivalists-network

Massachusett on the front lines

2009-09-23T07:02:00.000-07:00

Don’t let this happen here OKLAHOMA!

Massachusetts House and Senate are now in violation of State Law and the Constitution.

Violation of 4th Amendment: Illegal search and seizure
During either type of declared emergency, a local public health authority... may exercise authority... to require the owner or occupier of premises to permit entry into and investigation of the premises; to close, direct, and compel the evacuation of, or to decontaminate or cause to be decontaminated any building or facility; to destroy any material; to restrict or prohibit assemblages of persons;

Violation of 14th Amendment; illegal arrest without a warrant
...an officer authorized to serve criminal process may arrest without a warrant any person whom the officer has probable cause to believe has violated an order given to effectuate the purposes of this subsection and shall use reasonable diligence to enforce such order. [Gunpoint]

Violation of State Law and Federal

"Involuntary Transportation" (also known as kidnapping)
Law enforcement authorities, upon order of the commissioner or his agent or at the request of a local public health authority pursuant to such order, shall assist emergency medical technicians or other appropriate medical personnel in the involuntary transportation of such person to the tuberculosis treatment center.

UNCONSTITIONAL

$1,000 / day in fines
Any person who knowingly violates an order, as to which noncompliance poses a serious danger to public health as determined by the commissioner or the local public health authority, shall be punished by imprisonment for not more than 30 days or a fine of not more than one thousand dollars per day that the violation continues, or both.

Forced vaccinations
Furthermore, when the commissioner or a local public health authority within its jurisdiction determines that either or both of the following measures are necessary to prevent a serious danger to the public health the commissioner or local public health authority may exercise the following authority: (1) to vaccinate or provide precautionary prophylaxis to individuals as protection against communicable disease...

Forced quarantine for those who refuse (illegal imprisonment without charge) Also against state law
An individual who is unable or unwilling to submit to vaccination or treatment shall not be required to submit to such procedures but may be isolated or quarantined pursuant to section 96 of chapter 111 if his or her refusal poses a serious danger to public health or results in uncertainty whether he or she has been exposed to or is infected with a disease or condition that poses a serious danger to public health, as determined by the commissioner, or a local public health authority operating within its jurisdiction.

Arrest for refusal to be "decontaminated"
If an individual is unable or unwilling to submit to decontamination or procedures necessary for diagnosis, the decontamination or diagnosis procedures may proceed only pursuant to an order of the superior court... During the time necessary to obtain such court order, such individual may be isolated or quarantined pursuant to section 96 of chapter 111 if his or her refusal to submit to decontamination or diagnosis procedures poses a serious danger to public health or results in uncertainty whether he or she has been exposed to or is infected with a disease or condition that poses a serious danger to public health.

Interrogation
When the commissioner or a local public health authority within its jurisdiction reasonably believes that a person may have been exposed to a disease or condition that poses a threat to the public health, in addition to their authority under section 96 of chapter 111, the commissioner or the local public health authority may detain the person for as long as may be reasonably necessary for the commissioner or the local public health authority, to convey information to the person regarding the disease or condition and to obtain contact information... If a person detained under subsection (1) refuses to provide the information requested, the person may be isolated or quarantined pursuant to section 96 of chapter 111 if his or her refusal poses a serious danger to public health...

Forced isolation and quarantine
An order for isolation or quarantine may include any individual who is unwilling or unable to undergo vaccination, precautionary prophylaxis, medical treatment, decontamination, medical examinations, tests, or specimen collection and whose refusal of one or more of these measures poses a serious danger to public health or results in uncertainty whether he or she has been exposed to or is infected with a disease or condition that poses a serious danger to public health.

Forced entry into any home or building

Adams explains, “There's a lot more in this bill, including language that allows Mass. police to enter any home or building without a search warrant, to destroy any object or building they suspect may pose a threat to public safety, to order the closing and / or decontamination of any facility using highly toxic chemical decontamination agents, and to arrest, detain and interrogate anyone who gets in their way.” (Emphasis added.)

"Meanwhile, all state law enforcement and medical personnel are granted complete immunity from prosecution for their part in violating your Constitutional rights. So if they violate your right to due process, or they accidentally destroy your home, or they kill your family dog because they suspect it might be infected, you have absolutely zero recourse," states Adams.

I HOPE THEY DO NOT COMPLY !

9/11

2009-09-11T05:35:00.000-07:00

Oklahoma Senator calls President Obama’s Address to the Nation’s School Children ‘one step too far’

2009-09-04T09:50:00.000-07:00

Oklahoma Senator calls President Obama’s Address to the Nation’s School Children ‘one step too far’

Brogdon for Governor
September 3, 2009

OWASSO – On September 8th President Barack Obama will make an address to the nations school children. In an unprecedented speech, the President will address the children and talk about the importance of education.

However gubernatorial candidate Senator Randy Brogdon (R-Owasso) is concerned, saying, “President Obama has shown time and time againthat he has little regard for the Constitution or our founding principles”. Senator Brogdon asked, “is this the person we want addressing our children?” Brogdon went on to say that “President Obama seems intent on bypassing the parents to speak to the children directly,I don’t like that, it just one step too far.”

The President is reported to address topics such as global warming, environmental conservation, and other social issues that could be considered indoctrination rather than encouraging and stressing the importance of education.

In 1991 President George H. W. Bush addressed America’s school children to stress the importance of education, but Brogdon fears that President Obama’s speech will be dramatically different.

President Obama’s topics are best left for parents to talk about with their children, not the President of the United States.

Brogdon for Governor
PO Box 43
Owasso Oklahoma 74055
United States

Goverment Can?

2009-09-03T09:45:00.001-07:00

Stop Codex

2009-09-01T12:53:00.001-07:00

The following is a letter that you can send to Natural Solutions Foundation to protest the implementation of the global Codex Alimentarius. If you are not familiar with the Codex, please see the links on my profile to bring yourself up to speed on this "crime against humanity". Just a note, it is estimated that about 3 billion people will die after the implementation of this deadly food law. 1 billion from starvation alone; the rest from diseases that could have been prevented by vitamins, minerals & natural supplements. Please print out, sign and send to the address listed below. Or you may click on this link and email it from their site: https://www.healthfreedomusa.org/action/step3/petition-letter.shtml

Copy & paste the letter below, print it out and mail to: Natural Solutions Foundation, POB 722, Maryville MO 64468, U.S.A. Remember to add your name & address and to sign it.

F. Edward Scarbrough, PhD
US Manager for Codex
US Department of Agriculture
South Building, Room 4861
1400 Independence Ave., SW
Washington DC 20250

Barbara Schneeman, PhD
Director, Office of Nutritional Products
Food and Drug Administration
5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville MD 20857-0001

Re: Docket No. FSIS-2006-0004

Dear Drs. Schneeman and Scarbrough:

I am deeply concerned about health and health freedom in the US under the continuing assault of both Codex Alimentarius and those domestic forces which seek to undermine my access to natural health promotion options (including nutritional supplements, natural remedies and clean, unadulterated food). Therefore I wish to join the Natural Solutions Foundation in urging you to support the adoption and implementation of international and national policies, through legislation and regulation that would promote consumer access to Natural Solutions and accurate information of their potential health benefits. Such an approach to regulation would strengthen and solidify the principles of DSHEA for the benefit of the health of both the populace and the Wellness Industry. Please direct Codex Delegates to foster those policies and do so in your domestic policy dealings as well.

I urge you to adopt US Codex policies which support the spirit and the letter of the protective tradition, regulation and legislation representing the best of public policy. Those policies should be strictly in line with US law preventing harmonization with any international standard or guideline which conflicts or contradicts United States law as specified in the Citizen Petition and its Amendments provided to your offices by the Natural Solutions Foundation in 2005 in support of the positions, hearing requests and Revised Vitamin and Mineral Guideline presented in that Petition as delineated in the most recent Amendment (submitted to you on October 14, 2005 by the Natural Solutions Foundation), and to the Secretaries of Agriculture, Health and Human Services, Commerce, Transportation, Commissioners of the EPA and FDA, President Obama, Vice President Biden and the Majority and Minority leaders of both Houses of Congress.

I wish to join the Petition and add my voice to those of other Americans who want their health and health freedom supported by their government domestically and internationally

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. Codex standards, guidelines and regulations threaten our rights and laws in serious ways by lowering the protective bar to satisfy trade, not health, considerations. This is highly detrimental to us all and is a violation of the significant protection offered to us in this country by laws like DSHEA and similar statutes. If the FDA is too busy attempting to deal with the deadly mistakes of the pharmaceutical industry to promote access to safe foods, including those offered with health benefit claims for which there is any scientific evidence, then perhaps it is time to divest the FDA of its food safety and claims authority.

Please bring US Codex Policy and activities of the US Codex Office and FDA back in line with US law and the public's demand for access to Natural Solutions.

Yours in health and freedom,

Don't do it!

2009-08-31T05:43:00.000-07:00

Don't drink the milk

2009-08-29T07:42:00.001-07:00

What To Do If the Government Force Vaccinates You

2009-08-19T05:16:00.000-07:00

Clare Swinney
Web of Evidence
August 18, 2009

This report provides practical information on how to protect yourself if you are unlucky enough to be forced to take an A/H1N1 vaccine.

Ideally, you should avoid the toxic H1N1 vaccine at all costs.

Dr Russell L. Blaylock, a highly-respected neurosurgeon, who has authored three books on nutrition and wellness, including Health And Nutrition Secrets That Can Save Your Life, recently spoke with Dr Bill Deagle, MD of The Nutrimedical Report about some proven natural, readily accessible solutions that may help deal with the toxic effects of A/H1N1 vaccines. The excellent hour-long interview can be downloaded from HERE at0731091 and a transcript of the interview is posted at Dr Deagle’s site at this link here.

Dr Blaylock’s List of suggestions on How to Reduce the Toxic Effects of the A/H1N1 Vaccine, is as follows:

1. Number one on the list says Dr Blaylock, is to bring a cold pack with you and place it on the site of the injection as soon as you can, as this will block the immune reaction. Once you get home, continue using a cold pack throughout the day. If you continue to have immune reactions the following day, have cold showers and continue with the cold press.

2. Take fish oil. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), one of the omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oil supplements, is a potent immune suppressant. If you take high dose EPA you will be more susceptible to infections, because it is a powerful immune suppressant. However, in the case of an immune adjuvant reaction, you want to reduce it. Studies show that if you take EPA oil one hour before injecting a very powerful adjuvant called lipopolysaccharide (LPS), it would completely block the ability of the LPS to cause brain inflammation. Take a moderate dose everyday and more if needed to tame a cytokine storm.

3. Flavonoids are third on the list, namely curcumin, quercetin, ferulic acid and ellagic acid, particularly in a mixture. The curcumin and quercetin in particular have been found to block the ability of the adjuvants to trigger a long-term immune reaction. If you take it an hour before the vaccination, it should help dampen the immune reactions says Dr Blaylock.

4. Vitamin E, the natural form that is high in gamma-E will help dampen the immune reactions and reduces several of the inflammatory cytokines.

5. An important ingredient on the list is Vitamin C at a dose of 1000 mg, taken four times a day between meals. It is a very potent anti-inflammatory and should be taken in a buffered form, not as absorbic acid, says Dr Blaylock.

6. Also use astaxanthin as it’s an anti-inflammatory. According to Dr Blaylock, fatal reactions to vaccines in aboriginal and African children occurred in those who were deficient in carotinoids, like astaxanthin. It is a good protection against the toxic effects of the vaccine.

7. Likewise, it was found that children who were deficient in zinc had a high mortality rate. Zinc is very protective against vaccine toxicity. (Do not use zinc mixed with copper however, as copper is a major trigger of free-radical generation according to Dr Blaylock).

8. Ensure you avoid all immune-stimulating supplements, such as mushroom extracts, whey protein and beta-glucan.

9. Take a multivitamin-mineral daily – one that does not contain iron. This multivitamin-mineral is to make sure your body has plenty of B vitamins and selenium. Selenium, said Dr Blaylock, is very important for fighting viral infections and it reduces the inflammatory response to vaccines.

10. Magnesium citrate/malate 500 mg of elemental magnesium two capsules, three times a day. (This was not mentioned during the show, but was posted at Dr Deagle’s website, ClayandIron.com).

11. What is very important is vitamin D3, which is the only ‘vitamin’ the body can manufacture from sunlight (UVB). It is a neural hormone, not really a vitamin says Dr Blaylock and helps if you are over-reacting immunologically by cooling down the reaction. Similarly, if you are under-reacting, it helps to boost your immune response. In addition it also protects against microorganism invasion.

Black people and those in colder climates are particularly deficient, so they will almost certainly require supplementation.

Dr Blaylock recommends that following vaccination it will help to keep the immune reaction under control if:

i) All children get 5,000 units a day for two weeks after the vaccine and then 2,000 a units a day thereafter;

ii) Adults get 20,000 units a day after the vaccine for two weeks, then 10,000 units a day thereafter;

iii) And with that adults should take 500-1000 mg of calcium a day and children under the age of 12 years should take 250 mg a day, as vitamin D works more efficiently in the presence of calcium.

12. Ensure you avoid all mercury-containing seafood or any other sources of mercury, as the heavy metal is a very powerful inducer of autoimmunity, is known to make people more susceptible to viral infections and will be in H1N1 vaccines.

13. Avoid the oils that significantly suppress immunity and increase inflammation - such as corn, safflower, sunflower, soybean, canola and peanut oils.

14. Drink very concentrated white tea at least four times a day. It helps to prevent abnormal immune reactions.

15. Pop parsley and celery in a blender and drink 8 ounces of this mixture twice a day. Dr Blaylock says the parsley is very high in a flavonoid called apigenin and that celery is high in luteolin. Both are very potent in inhibiting autoimmune diseases, particularly the apigenin, so go and plant some parsley in your garden now.

Obamacare not in OK

2009-08-16T04:49:00.000-07:00

"Obamacare" is the latest big government program that threatens the health care system. Congress will radically limit health care for senior citizens and the unborn. Congressional bail-outs and stimulus schemes have dug the hole and built the coffin that could bury the "Great American Dream." "Obamacare" could be the final nail in the coffin that will shut the door of freedom in our lifetime.

"Obamacare", is not just health care reform, it is an overt attempt to control our lives from the cradle to the grave. President Obama and members of Congress have expressed a desire for a "single payer system." While that sounds nice, in reality, it's government control of your healthcare decisions. The federal government will decide who receives cancer treatment, medication, and will even attempt to influence end of life decisions usually held by family members.

Euthanasia type policies are scattered throughout the Obamacare program as referenced below. The bill before Congress today gives almost total control of the health care system to bureaucrats and politicians. Never would I have anticipated the President of the United States and Congress supporting legislation that gives government the power to choose who lives and who dies by controlling and rationing health care.

The Freedom Foundation and Liberty Council has detailed some of the provisions in the 1000 page bill that many politicians admit they have never read but are willing to vote for:

* Health care will be rationed much like Canada and Europe Sec 123 pg 29
* The (unelected) Health Commissioner will choose your benefits Sec 123 pg 42
* Illegal aliens will be provided free health care Sec 152 pg 50
* Government will have access to your bank accounts for electronic transfers Sec 152 pg 59
* Private health care plans will be brought under the control of government Sec 164 pg 52
* All employers must enroll employees into the government plan
* Doctors salaries will be set by the government Sec 203 pg 127
* Cancer patients will have their health care severely rationed Sec 1145 pg 272
* Hospital expansions will be controlled by government Sec 280 pg 321
* Restrictions will be put on "Special Needs" people Sec 280 pg 354
* Government will mandate "Advance (Death) Care Planning Sec 379 pg 425
* Government provided "approved" list of end of life resources and treatments Sec 370 pg 425

These socialist policies will be devastating, not only to the Oklahoma health care system but also to our ability to make personal decisions about our own health. Hospitals such as St. Francis in Tulsa, St Mary's in Enid and Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City may be forced to provide government sanctioned abortions. "Obamacare" is another glaring example of how the federal government money always comes with strings attached.

Oklahoma employers will be forced to provide the government health plan (single payer) rather than private health insurance. If "Obamacare" becomes a reality, two things are sure to take place, costs go up and benefits come down for their employees. No longer will Oklahomans be able to choose their doctor or insurance plan. The federal government will choose for them.

As governor I would protect the citizen's health care choices by invoking states rights to prevent the Federal government from meddling in the lives of millions of Oklahomans. Personal health care decisions should be made between the doctor and the patient, not by politicians or government bureaucrats.

Insurance providers are forced to pay doctors and hospitals based on a price prescribed by government programs such as Medicaid and Medicare. In essence, politicians are ultimately making health decisions that only a doctor and patient should be making.

Health care reform for Oklahomans should be made by Oklahomans, not Washington D.C. politicians. Change is easy but true reform is difficult. I believe we need to reform the health care delivery system first by removing the influence and mandates of government.

I believe common sense reform must include policies that support:

* Portable personal insurance (401K like)
* Pre-tax health insurance plans
* Industry portability
* Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
* Free Market Solutions

Expanding the free market and restoring the doctor-patient relationship are the keys for successful health care reform, yet they are totally left out of "Obamacare." We need to rid the undo political influence over individual's health decision by cutting the strings of federal regulations.

Obama's desire to control our health and quality of life at the federal level is sure to infect all Oklahomans. As governor my goal would be to immunize Oklahomans from the abuse of "Obamacare" and provide true health care reform. Healthcare reform with no strings attached.

By:
Randy Brogdon

A must read Report:

2009-08-10T10:26:00.001-07:00

Epidemic Influenza And Vitamin D

It's only a question of when a pandemic will come, not if it will come. Influenza A pandemics come every 30 years or so, severe ones every hundred years or so. The last pandemic, the Hong Kong flu, occurred in 1968 - killing 34,000 Americans. In 1918, the Great Flu Epidemic killed more than
500,000 Americans. So many millions died in other countries, they couldn't bury the bodies. Young healthy adults, in the prime of their lives in the morning, drowning in their own inflammation by noon, grossly discolored by sunset, were dead at midnight. Their body's own broad-spectrum natural antibiotics, called antimicrobial peptides, seemed nowhere to be found. An overwhelming immune response to the influenza virus - white blood cells releasing large amounts of inflammatory agents called cytokines and chemokines into the lungs of the doomed - resulted in millions of deaths in 1918.

Read more go to: http://www.endtimesreport.com/Epidemic_Influenza.html

By: End Times Report Com

Shots coming your way.

2009-08-07T10:15:00.000-07:00

This is crap!

MSNBC

"We can't stop the tide of flu from coming in, but we can reduce the number of people who become ill from it," Frieden said.

In addition to new guidance for when to close, the CDC and Education Department said this week they have set up a new monitoring system to track school closures across the country.

Still up in the air is whether schools will be turned into vaccine clinics, though Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has said that seems logical. "We're seeing schools as potential partners," she said at the forum with Duncan.

Children are on the priority list for the first doses of swine flu vaccine, but because of time needed for testing and manufacturing, inoculations can't begin until school has been in session for more than a month; the government is aiming for Oct. 15. Many questions remain, including whether people will need one shot or two for protection. That is in addition to the regular winter flu vaccine that is also recommended for children.

States and school districts should be preparing for the possibility of mass vaccinations, federal officials have said.

Taken off of MSNBC

I WILL NOT TAKE THE SHOT.