John Pilger
JohnPilger.com
December 31, 2009
In Nineteen Eighty-Four, George Orwell described a superstate called Oceania, whose language of war inverted lies that “passed into history and became truth. ‘Who controls the past’, ran the Party slogan, ‘controls the future: who controls the present controls the past’.”
Barack Obama is the leader of a contemporary Oceania. In two speeches at the close of the decade, the Nobel Peace Prize winner affirmed that peace was no longer peace, but rather a permanent war that “extends well beyond Afghanistan and Pakistan” to “disorderly regions and diffuse enemies”. He called this “global security” and invited our gratitude. To the people of Afghanistan, which America has invaded and occupied, he said wittily: “We have no interest in occupying your country.”
In Oceania, truth and lies are indivisible. According to Obama, the American attack on Afghanistan in 2001 was authorised by the United Nations Security Council. There was no UN authority. He said the “the world” supported the invasion in the wake of 9/11 when, in truth, all but three of 37 countries surveyed by Gallup expressed overwhelming opposition. He said that America invaded Afghanistan “only after the Taliban refused to turn over [Osama] bin Laden”. In 2001, the Taliban tried three times to hand over bin Laden for trial, reported Pakistan’s military regime, and were ignored. Even Obama’s mystification of 9/11 as justification for his war is false. More than two months before the Twin Towers were attacked, the Pakistani foreign minister, Niaz Naik, was told by the Bush administration that an American military assault would take place by mid-October. The Taliban regime in Kabul, which the Clinton administration had secretly supported, was no longer regarded as “stable” enough to ensure America’s control over oil and gas pipelines to the Caspian Sea. It had to go.
Obama’s most audacious lie is that Afghanistan today is a “safe haven” for al-Qaeda’s attacks on the West. His own national security adviser, General James Jones, said in October that there were “fewer than 100″ al-Qaeda in Afghanistan. According to US intelligence, 90 per cent of the Taliban are hardly Taliban at all, but “a tribal localised insurgency [who] see themselves as opposing the US because it is an occupying power”. The war is a fraud. Only the terminally gormless remain true to the Obama brand of “world peace”.
Beneath the surface, however, there is serious purpose. Under the disturbing General Stanley McCrystal, who gained distinction for his assassination squads in Iraq, the occupation of one of the most impoverished countries is a model for those “disorderly regions” of the world still beyond Oceania’s reach. This is a known as COIN, or counter-insurgency network, which draws together the military, aid organisations, psychologists, anthropologists, the media and public relations hirelings. Covered in jargon about winning hearts and minds, its aim is to pit one ethnic group against another and incite civil war: Tajiks and Uzbecks against Pashtuns.
The Americans did this in Iraq and destroyed a multi-ethnic society. They bribed and built walls between communities who had once inter-married, ethnically cleansing the Sunni and driving millions out of the country. The embedded media reported this as “peace”, and American academics bought by Washington and “security experts” briefed by the Pentagon appeared on the BBC to spread the good news. As in Nineteen Eighty-Four, the opposite was true.
Something similar is planned for Afghanistan. People are to be forced into “target areas” controlled by warlords bankrolled by the Americans and the opium trade. That these warlords are infamous for their barbarism is irrelevant. “We can live with that,” a Clinton-era diplomat said of the persecution of women in a “stable” Taliban-run Afghanistan. Favoured western relief agencies, engineers and agricultural specialists will attend to the “humanitarian crisis” and so “secure” the subjugated tribal lands.
That is the theory. It worked after a fashion in Yugoslavia where the ethnic-sectarian partition wiped out a once peaceful society, but it failed in Vietnam where the CIA’s “strategic hamlet program” was designed to corral and divide the southern population and so defeat the Viet Cong — the Americans’ catch-all term for the resistance, similar to “Taliban”.
Behind much of this are the Israelis, who have long advised the Americans in both the Iraq and Afghanistan adventures. Ethnic-cleansing, wall-building, checkpoints, collective punishment and constant surveillance – these are claimed as Israeli innovations that have succeeded in stealing most of Palestine from its native people. And yet for all their suffering, the Palestinians have not been divided irrevocably and they endure as a nation against all odds.
The most telling forerunners of the Obama Plan, which the Nobel Peace Prize winner and his strange general and his PR men prefer we forget, are those that failed in Afghanistan itself. The British in the 19th century and the Soviets in the 20th century attempted to conquer that wild country by ethnic cleansing and were seen off, though after terrible bloodshed. Imperial cemeteries are their memorials. People power, sometimes baffling, often heroic, remains the seed beneath the snow, and invaders fear it.
“It was curious,” wrote Orwell in Nineteen Eighty-Four, “to think that the sky was the same for everybody, in Eurasia or Eastasia as well as here. And the people under the sky were also very much the same, everywhere, all over the world … people ignorant of one another’s existence, held apart by walls of hatred and lies, and yet almost exactly the same people who … were storing up in their hearts and bellies and muscles the power that would one day overturn the world.”
Thursday, December 31, 2009
The coming Great Inflation, real or imagined
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A historic economic crisis has left Americans with plenty of things to worry about. But is inflation one of them? And is there a risk that fretting over higher prices may actually bring them about?
The answers to these questions will help define the timing of the Federal Reserve's pullback from an unprecedented level of monetary stimulus, deployed to combat the worst financial panic since the Great Depression.
In justifying its pledge to leave interest rates near zero for the foreseeable future, the Fed takes comfort in inflation expectations, which policymakers deem comfortably restrained.
On the surface, that appears true. The most recent Reuters/University of Michigan consumer survey showed a 0.2 percentage point decline in expected inflation one-year out, to 2.5 percent. Market-based barometers have fluttered higher, though not alarmingly so.
Yet beneath the weak economic backdrop keeping prices in check, economists and consumers are increasingly uneasy about the prospect of a continuous loss of purchasing power -- the very definition of inflation.
"We have the most potentially inflationary policy I have ever observed in a developed country," said Alan Meltzer, a Fed historian and professor of political economy at the Carnegie Mellon Tepper School of Business in Pittsburgh.
According to widely used economic models, the way consumers perceive the prospect of future inflation has clear implications for prices themselves. Once higher costs are taken for granted, they are more easily tolerated.
Several indicators are already hinting at that possibility.
The price of gold, often viewed as a hedge against inflation, has set record after record, peaking above $1,200 an ounce earlier this month before retreating to below $1,100. A recent JPMorgan survey of clients found that 61 percent expected U.S. inflation to be "above target" between 2011 and 2014.
Another consumer confidence survey, published by The Conference Board, showed Americans expect prices to climb a troubling 5.1 percent over the next 12 months.
And Google Trends, a websearch database, shows a sharp spike in the number of U.S. users looking up the word "hyperinflation" in late 2008 and early 2009.
"There is a real risk that inflation expectations will rise above a certain threshold that suggests a loss of credibility of the Fed," said Laurence Meyer, a former Fed governor now at Macroeconomic Advisers in Washington, DC.
MIND OVER MATTERS
That may seem surprising considering the world has faced a crippling financial crisis that many economists warned might lead to deflation. But it makes sense in the context of the extraordinary measures taken to halt the meltdown.
Experts who have studied bouts of inflation, most common in poor or developing countries, say the makings of an inflationary psychology are already in place in the United States. It begins, they say, when unfathomably large figures are bandied about as if they were mere change.
A cascading series of government bailouts certainly fits into that category. The Treasury spent nearly $800 billion on a stimulus package that has helped ease the pace of job losses but not yet begun to reverse them. The Fed committed to buy more than $1.7 trillion in Treasury and mortgage bonds and expanded credit in the banking system to over $2.2 trillion.
"There is an unprecedented amount of latent inflation represented by the $2 trillion monetary base," said Michael Pento, senior market strategist at Delta Global Advisors. "Unless the Fed can sell those holdings and raise interest rates in a timely manner, intractable inflation will be in our future."
ENTER THE SLACKERS
Another camp of economists say all the hand-wringing is overdone. They point to the labor market, in its worst shape since the 1980s, as a sure sign that the economy is sufficiently weak to keep price pressures at bay.
Japan provides the most obvious model for how such "slack" can affect prices. As bubbles popped in the housing and stock markets, the Japanese economy was stuck in a deflationary rut for the better part of two decades, despite heavy government spending.
During America's last run-in with inflation in the 1970s, wages were a key channel for price increases. Stronger unions meant workers could demand cost-of-living increases to keep up with the ever-rising consumer price index. With that dynamic largely absent today, say skeptics, inflation fears are misplaced.
So far, the hard figures corroborate their view. Consumer prices rose just 1.8 percent in the year through November, and were up 1.7 percent, excluding food and energy, well beneath the recent yearly average.
Such tame readings notwithstanding, anxiety about the longer-term outlook is rising and has been reinforced by the resilience of energy costs in the face of a global recession.
"We will emerge from the crisis with an excess money supply because, despite their independence, central bankers are still feeling the pressure from finance ministers to allow slightly higher inflation in order to be able to service large public debts more easily," said Jorg Kramer, chief economist at Commerzbank.
Source:
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE5BT3RM20091230
The answers to these questions will help define the timing of the Federal Reserve's pullback from an unprecedented level of monetary stimulus, deployed to combat the worst financial panic since the Great Depression.
In justifying its pledge to leave interest rates near zero for the foreseeable future, the Fed takes comfort in inflation expectations, which policymakers deem comfortably restrained.
On the surface, that appears true. The most recent Reuters/University of Michigan consumer survey showed a 0.2 percentage point decline in expected inflation one-year out, to 2.5 percent. Market-based barometers have fluttered higher, though not alarmingly so.
Yet beneath the weak economic backdrop keeping prices in check, economists and consumers are increasingly uneasy about the prospect of a continuous loss of purchasing power -- the very definition of inflation.
"We have the most potentially inflationary policy I have ever observed in a developed country," said Alan Meltzer, a Fed historian and professor of political economy at the Carnegie Mellon Tepper School of Business in Pittsburgh.
According to widely used economic models, the way consumers perceive the prospect of future inflation has clear implications for prices themselves. Once higher costs are taken for granted, they are more easily tolerated.
Several indicators are already hinting at that possibility.
The price of gold, often viewed as a hedge against inflation, has set record after record, peaking above $1,200 an ounce earlier this month before retreating to below $1,100. A recent JPMorgan survey of clients found that 61 percent expected U.S. inflation to be "above target" between 2011 and 2014.
Another consumer confidence survey, published by The Conference Board, showed Americans expect prices to climb a troubling 5.1 percent over the next 12 months.
And Google Trends, a websearch database, shows a sharp spike in the number of U.S. users looking up the word "hyperinflation" in late 2008 and early 2009.
"There is a real risk that inflation expectations will rise above a certain threshold that suggests a loss of credibility of the Fed," said Laurence Meyer, a former Fed governor now at Macroeconomic Advisers in Washington, DC.
MIND OVER MATTERS
That may seem surprising considering the world has faced a crippling financial crisis that many economists warned might lead to deflation. But it makes sense in the context of the extraordinary measures taken to halt the meltdown.
Experts who have studied bouts of inflation, most common in poor or developing countries, say the makings of an inflationary psychology are already in place in the United States. It begins, they say, when unfathomably large figures are bandied about as if they were mere change.
A cascading series of government bailouts certainly fits into that category. The Treasury spent nearly $800 billion on a stimulus package that has helped ease the pace of job losses but not yet begun to reverse them. The Fed committed to buy more than $1.7 trillion in Treasury and mortgage bonds and expanded credit in the banking system to over $2.2 trillion.
"There is an unprecedented amount of latent inflation represented by the $2 trillion monetary base," said Michael Pento, senior market strategist at Delta Global Advisors. "Unless the Fed can sell those holdings and raise interest rates in a timely manner, intractable inflation will be in our future."
ENTER THE SLACKERS
Another camp of economists say all the hand-wringing is overdone. They point to the labor market, in its worst shape since the 1980s, as a sure sign that the economy is sufficiently weak to keep price pressures at bay.
Japan provides the most obvious model for how such "slack" can affect prices. As bubbles popped in the housing and stock markets, the Japanese economy was stuck in a deflationary rut for the better part of two decades, despite heavy government spending.
During America's last run-in with inflation in the 1970s, wages were a key channel for price increases. Stronger unions meant workers could demand cost-of-living increases to keep up with the ever-rising consumer price index. With that dynamic largely absent today, say skeptics, inflation fears are misplaced.
So far, the hard figures corroborate their view. Consumer prices rose just 1.8 percent in the year through November, and were up 1.7 percent, excluding food and energy, well beneath the recent yearly average.
Such tame readings notwithstanding, anxiety about the longer-term outlook is rising and has been reinforced by the resilience of energy costs in the face of a global recession.
"We will emerge from the crisis with an excess money supply because, despite their independence, central bankers are still feeling the pressure from finance ministers to allow slightly higher inflation in order to be able to service large public debts more easily," said Jorg Kramer, chief economist at Commerzbank.
Source:
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE5BT3RM20091230
Sunday, December 20, 2009
A Suggested Survival List
December 15, 2009
By Chuck Baldwin
One does not have to be a prophet to know that we are on the precipice of some potentially catastrophic--or at the very least, challenging--days. In fact, most of us are already in challenging days, and some are already enduring catastrophic events. That is, if one would call being out of work, losing one's home, facing life-threatening medical conditions without any prospect of medical insurance, several families being forced to live in one house due to homes being foreclosed, etc., catastrophic.
The potential for an escalation of cataclysmic events, however, is very real. Only a "blooming idiot" would call someone who attempts to prepare for "the day of adversity" a Chicken Little now. Anyone who does not see the storm clouds on the horizon isn't paying attention.
For example, can one imagine what would happen if terrorists nuked a major American city or cities? (Once again, I encourage readers to go get the videos of the CBS TV series "Jericho" to get an idea of how quickly life, and even civilization, could change.) Imagine if there was another 9/11-type event. What would happen if some form of Zimbabwe-style inflation hit the US? What would happen if anything disrupted the distribution of Welfare checks, or food to local grocers? Imagine a Hurricane Katrina-style natural disaster in your town. I think people everywhere are beginning to awaken to just how vulnerable we all really are.
As a result, people from virtually every walk of life have recently been asking my thoughts on how they should prepare. Therefore, I will attempt to share with my readers some of the counsel I have given these folks.
First, a disclaimer. I am not an economist; I am not a survival expert; I am not a firearms expert; I am not an attorney; I am not a physician. In fact, I am not an expert in anything! For several years, however, I have tried to learn from others. I am an avid reader. My work has allowed me to travel extensively. I have had the privilege of sitting at the feet of--and learning from--many of America's most learned, most trained, and most qualified "experts" in a variety of fields. What I write today, I have learned from others. I've formed my own opinions and priorities, of course, but everything I'm sharing has been said, or written about, before. But if I can share something in today's column that will help someone be better prepared for the days to come, then my goal will have been achieved.
Location:
First, analyze your living conditions. Where do you live? Do you live in an urban or rural environment? Is it a big city or small town? Do you live in an apartment or condominium? How close are your neighbors? Do you even know your neighbors? Would you trust them if the electricity was off and they were hungry? Could you grow your own food, if you had to? How easily could you secure your home? If you live in a cold weather environment, how long could you stay warm without electricity? These are the kinds of questions you need to ask yourself now.
Over the past several decades, masses of people have migrated into large metropolitan areas. More people live in urban areas than at any time in American history. While this may be well and good for times of prosperity, it is an absolute nightmare in any kind of disaster. Does anyone remember what New Orleans looked like after Hurricane Katrina came through? Can anyone recall what happened in downtown Los Angeles during the 1992 riots? Needless to say, any inner-city environment could become a powder keg almost instantaneously, given the right (or wrong) circumstances. And the bigger the city, the bigger the potential problems.
If you live in the inner city, I suggest you consider moving to a more rural location. Obviously, now is a very good time to buy property (especially rural property), but the downside is, selling property is not as favorable. If you can afford it, now is a great time to buy a "safe house" outside the city. If you are fortunate enough to have family or some true friends nearby, you might want to put your heads--and some resources--together in preparation for serious upheaval. Obviously, a team of prepared people is much better than being alone.
If you must stay in your urban location, have some commonsense plans in hand in the event of a major disaster. Get to know your neighbors: find out whom you can trust and whom you can't. Keep some extra gasoline on hand, in case you need to get in your car quickly and leave. Have several exit routes planned ahead of time, in case roads are blocked. Have a "bug-out" bag containing essential ingredients to live on for 3 or 4 days. If leaving is not an option, have a plan to secure your home as best you can. You'll need to think about things such as food, water, medicine, warmth, self-defense, etc. But at this point, to do nothing is absolute lunacy!
Provisions:
During a major disaster, food will quickly disappear. Living for over 3 decades on the Gulf Coast, I can tell you with absolute certainty that whenever disaster strikes (usually an approaching hurricane, for us), food and provisions at the store sell completely out in a matter of a few hours. People panic, and within hours, you cannot find food, bottled water, ice, generators, batteries, candles, etc. In a matter of hours, every gas station in the area will be completely out of gas. Not days. Hours!
Furthermore, almost all disasters include a complete loss of electricity. The water supply is compromised. Bottled water becomes more valuable than bank accounts. Dehydration becomes a very real and present danger. I remember witnessing a man offer an ice vendor $100 for an extra bag of ice during Hurricane Ivan. My wife and I went 2 weeks (14 days) without electricity in the aftermath of that hurricane. Believe me, I got a taste of just how precious bottled water, ice, batteries, generators, fuel, etc., can become.
I suggest you have a supply of food and water to last at least 2 weeks. A month would be even better. Personally, I can live a long time on tuna fish or peanut butter. You can purchase MREs from a variety of sources, as well as "camp-style" packaged food from stores such as Academy Sports & Outdoors. Of course, bottled water is available everywhere during normal times. Stock up! Plus, I suggest you have some water purification tablets or a Katadyn water filter on hand. And, if you are able, prepare to grow your own food. Canning food is another very helpful hedge against deprivation. If your parents were like mine, this was standard operating procedure.
Get a generator. Keep a supply of fuel on hand. Stay stocked up on batteries, candles, portable lights, first aid supplies, and personal hygiene items--especially toilet paper. Trust me, during times of intense and prolonged disaster, toilet paper could become more valuable than money. I also suggest you never run out of lighters or matches. You never know when you'll need to build a fire, and during a prolonged survival situation, fire could save your life. If you live in a cold weather climate, you probably already have some sort of wood stove or fireplace.
Obviously, you need to take stock of your clothing. Do you have clothes suitable for extended outdoor activity? What about boots? During a disaster, you would trade your best suit from Neiman Marcus for a good pair of boots. Do you have gloves? Insulated underwear? What about camouflage clothing? These could become essential outerwear in the right conditions. Plus, any "bug-out" bag will need to include spare clothing.
And one more suggestion, while we're on this subject: the best resources in the world are of little use if one is physically incapable of making good use of them. In other words, GET IN SHAPE. During any kind of emergency situation, physical exertion and stamina become immensely important.
Commodities:
I suggest you have at least some cash on hand. Just about any and all disasters will result in banks being closed for extended periods of time. That also means credit card purchases being suspended. You need to have enough cash to be able to purchase essential goods (if they are even available) for an undetermined amount of time.
Of course, some survival gurus insist that during any cataclysmic climate, precious metals will become the only reliable currency. But when most of us are trying to feed our families and pay our bills, it is difficult to get excited about buying gold and silver. Obviously, I would never recommend that anyone jeopardize the present on the altar of the future. My parents made it through the Great Depression with canned goods and garden vegetables; gold and silver were certainly not a priority with them. And maybe it should not be with you, either?
In fact, in a disaster, what is considered a valuable commodity can change rather quickly, as the barter system takes a life of its own. What is valuable is determined by what you need and how badly you need it. In a prolonged disaster, simple things such as toilet paper, canned goods, ammunition, and clothing could become extremely valuable; while cars, video games, televisions, etc., could be reduced to junk status. In antiquity, wars were fought over things such as salt.
Speaking of cars, remember that during a prolonged "national emergency" that might involve some sort of nuclear attack or widespread civil unrest, an Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) might be employed; in which case, most every late model vehicle would be completely inoperable. Accordingly, if one can keep an older, pre-computer-age vehicle in good working order, he or she might be driving the only non-government vehicle capable of going anywhere.
Self-Defense:
Needless to say, during any kind of disaster, your safety and protection will be completely up to you. If you really think that the police are going to be able to protect you during an upheaval, you are living in a dreamworld.
In both the New Orleans and Los Angeles disasters, police protection was non-existent. Lawless gangs quickly took control of the streets, and people were left to either defend themselves or swiftly become the helpless prey of violent marauders. In fact, in New Orleans, some of the policemen actually abandoned their oaths to uphold the law and joined with the criminals, turning their weapons upon the public.
Face it, folks: in any kind of disaster, you must be able to defend yourself, or you and your family will be meat for these animals of society that will quickly descend without mercy upon the unprepared, unsuspecting souls around them. This requires that you be armed! It also requires that you be skilled enough to be able to efficiently use your arms.
Therefore, I strongly suggest that you purchase firearms sufficient to keep you and your family safe, and also that you practice sufficiently to know how to proficiently use them.
Now, when it comes to a discussion of which firearms are preferable for self-defense, the suggestions are as varied as the people who proffer them. These are my suggestions:
I believe every man (along with his wife and children of adequate age) should be proficient with the following weapons: a handgun in .38 caliber or above, a .22 rifle, a center-fire hunting rifle, a semi-automatic battle rifle, and a shotgun.
My personal preference for a self-defense handgun is either a .45 ACP 1911 (either Colt or Kimber) or a .40 S&W. In the .40 caliber, my favorite is a Glock 23. In the 1911, I like the Commander size configuration. I also like the Glock 30 and 36 in .45 caliber. My wife prefers to carry a Smith & Wesson .38 caliber revolver in the snub-nose, J-frame configuration. But this is primarily due to the reduced weight of these weapons for carry purposes. If needed, she could make a good accounting of herself with a Glock 19 in 9mm. If you are someone who has never owned and seldom fired a handgun, I recommend you buy a Glock. They are as simple as revolvers to operate, reliable, and almost indestructible. Plus, they provide increased magazine capacity, and are safe. They are also very easy to disassemble and clean.
For a .22 rifle, I really like the Ruger 10/22. For a hunting rifle, my suggestion is either a .270 or .30-06 caliber bolt-action rifle. (If I had to pick one, I'd pick the .30-06.) I prefer the Remington Model 700 BDL, but there are several fine weapons in this configuration and caliber by numerous manufacturers. For a battle rifle, I suggest an AR-15-style weapon in .223 caliber. Here I prefer a Bushmaster. (Please, I don't need to hear from all you .308 lovers out there. I love the Springfield M1A, too.) For a shotgun, I suggest a 12-gauge pump. Here I prefer a Winchester Model 1300, which is not made anymore. So, you'll probably have to choose between Mossberg and Remington.
Whatever you choose, practice with it to the point that you are able to use it proficiently. And be sure you stock up on ammunition. A gun without ammo is reduced to being either an expensive club or a cumbersome paperweight.
Spiritual Power:
I firmly believe that man is created to have fellowship with his Creator-God. I really don't know how people can face the uncertain future that we currently face without the spiritual knowledge, wisdom, comfort, and power that is made available through Jesus Christ. I believe the maxim is true: "Wise men still seek Him." I strongly suggest that you seek to possess a personal relationship with God's only begotten Son.That we are facing challenging days is a certainty. Exactly what that means is yet to be determined. I trust that some of my suggestions will help you be better prepared for what lies before.
us.http://www.chuckbaldwinlive.com/chuckwagon.php
By Chuck Baldwin
One does not have to be a prophet to know that we are on the precipice of some potentially catastrophic--or at the very least, challenging--days. In fact, most of us are already in challenging days, and some are already enduring catastrophic events. That is, if one would call being out of work, losing one's home, facing life-threatening medical conditions without any prospect of medical insurance, several families being forced to live in one house due to homes being foreclosed, etc., catastrophic.
The potential for an escalation of cataclysmic events, however, is very real. Only a "blooming idiot" would call someone who attempts to prepare for "the day of adversity" a Chicken Little now. Anyone who does not see the storm clouds on the horizon isn't paying attention.
For example, can one imagine what would happen if terrorists nuked a major American city or cities? (Once again, I encourage readers to go get the videos of the CBS TV series "Jericho" to get an idea of how quickly life, and even civilization, could change.) Imagine if there was another 9/11-type event. What would happen if some form of Zimbabwe-style inflation hit the US? What would happen if anything disrupted the distribution of Welfare checks, or food to local grocers? Imagine a Hurricane Katrina-style natural disaster in your town. I think people everywhere are beginning to awaken to just how vulnerable we all really are.
As a result, people from virtually every walk of life have recently been asking my thoughts on how they should prepare. Therefore, I will attempt to share with my readers some of the counsel I have given these folks.
First, a disclaimer. I am not an economist; I am not a survival expert; I am not a firearms expert; I am not an attorney; I am not a physician. In fact, I am not an expert in anything! For several years, however, I have tried to learn from others. I am an avid reader. My work has allowed me to travel extensively. I have had the privilege of sitting at the feet of--and learning from--many of America's most learned, most trained, and most qualified "experts" in a variety of fields. What I write today, I have learned from others. I've formed my own opinions and priorities, of course, but everything I'm sharing has been said, or written about, before. But if I can share something in today's column that will help someone be better prepared for the days to come, then my goal will have been achieved.
Location:
First, analyze your living conditions. Where do you live? Do you live in an urban or rural environment? Is it a big city or small town? Do you live in an apartment or condominium? How close are your neighbors? Do you even know your neighbors? Would you trust them if the electricity was off and they were hungry? Could you grow your own food, if you had to? How easily could you secure your home? If you live in a cold weather environment, how long could you stay warm without electricity? These are the kinds of questions you need to ask yourself now.
Over the past several decades, masses of people have migrated into large metropolitan areas. More people live in urban areas than at any time in American history. While this may be well and good for times of prosperity, it is an absolute nightmare in any kind of disaster. Does anyone remember what New Orleans looked like after Hurricane Katrina came through? Can anyone recall what happened in downtown Los Angeles during the 1992 riots? Needless to say, any inner-city environment could become a powder keg almost instantaneously, given the right (or wrong) circumstances. And the bigger the city, the bigger the potential problems.
If you live in the inner city, I suggest you consider moving to a more rural location. Obviously, now is a very good time to buy property (especially rural property), but the downside is, selling property is not as favorable. If you can afford it, now is a great time to buy a "safe house" outside the city. If you are fortunate enough to have family or some true friends nearby, you might want to put your heads--and some resources--together in preparation for serious upheaval. Obviously, a team of prepared people is much better than being alone.
If you must stay in your urban location, have some commonsense plans in hand in the event of a major disaster. Get to know your neighbors: find out whom you can trust and whom you can't. Keep some extra gasoline on hand, in case you need to get in your car quickly and leave. Have several exit routes planned ahead of time, in case roads are blocked. Have a "bug-out" bag containing essential ingredients to live on for 3 or 4 days. If leaving is not an option, have a plan to secure your home as best you can. You'll need to think about things such as food, water, medicine, warmth, self-defense, etc. But at this point, to do nothing is absolute lunacy!
Provisions:
During a major disaster, food will quickly disappear. Living for over 3 decades on the Gulf Coast, I can tell you with absolute certainty that whenever disaster strikes (usually an approaching hurricane, for us), food and provisions at the store sell completely out in a matter of a few hours. People panic, and within hours, you cannot find food, bottled water, ice, generators, batteries, candles, etc. In a matter of hours, every gas station in the area will be completely out of gas. Not days. Hours!
Furthermore, almost all disasters include a complete loss of electricity. The water supply is compromised. Bottled water becomes more valuable than bank accounts. Dehydration becomes a very real and present danger. I remember witnessing a man offer an ice vendor $100 for an extra bag of ice during Hurricane Ivan. My wife and I went 2 weeks (14 days) without electricity in the aftermath of that hurricane. Believe me, I got a taste of just how precious bottled water, ice, batteries, generators, fuel, etc., can become.
I suggest you have a supply of food and water to last at least 2 weeks. A month would be even better. Personally, I can live a long time on tuna fish or peanut butter. You can purchase MREs from a variety of sources, as well as "camp-style" packaged food from stores such as Academy Sports & Outdoors. Of course, bottled water is available everywhere during normal times. Stock up! Plus, I suggest you have some water purification tablets or a Katadyn water filter on hand. And, if you are able, prepare to grow your own food. Canning food is another very helpful hedge against deprivation. If your parents were like mine, this was standard operating procedure.
Get a generator. Keep a supply of fuel on hand. Stay stocked up on batteries, candles, portable lights, first aid supplies, and personal hygiene items--especially toilet paper. Trust me, during times of intense and prolonged disaster, toilet paper could become more valuable than money. I also suggest you never run out of lighters or matches. You never know when you'll need to build a fire, and during a prolonged survival situation, fire could save your life. If you live in a cold weather climate, you probably already have some sort of wood stove or fireplace.
Obviously, you need to take stock of your clothing. Do you have clothes suitable for extended outdoor activity? What about boots? During a disaster, you would trade your best suit from Neiman Marcus for a good pair of boots. Do you have gloves? Insulated underwear? What about camouflage clothing? These could become essential outerwear in the right conditions. Plus, any "bug-out" bag will need to include spare clothing.
And one more suggestion, while we're on this subject: the best resources in the world are of little use if one is physically incapable of making good use of them. In other words, GET IN SHAPE. During any kind of emergency situation, physical exertion and stamina become immensely important.
Commodities:
I suggest you have at least some cash on hand. Just about any and all disasters will result in banks being closed for extended periods of time. That also means credit card purchases being suspended. You need to have enough cash to be able to purchase essential goods (if they are even available) for an undetermined amount of time.
Of course, some survival gurus insist that during any cataclysmic climate, precious metals will become the only reliable currency. But when most of us are trying to feed our families and pay our bills, it is difficult to get excited about buying gold and silver. Obviously, I would never recommend that anyone jeopardize the present on the altar of the future. My parents made it through the Great Depression with canned goods and garden vegetables; gold and silver were certainly not a priority with them. And maybe it should not be with you, either?
In fact, in a disaster, what is considered a valuable commodity can change rather quickly, as the barter system takes a life of its own. What is valuable is determined by what you need and how badly you need it. In a prolonged disaster, simple things such as toilet paper, canned goods, ammunition, and clothing could become extremely valuable; while cars, video games, televisions, etc., could be reduced to junk status. In antiquity, wars were fought over things such as salt.
Speaking of cars, remember that during a prolonged "national emergency" that might involve some sort of nuclear attack or widespread civil unrest, an Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) might be employed; in which case, most every late model vehicle would be completely inoperable. Accordingly, if one can keep an older, pre-computer-age vehicle in good working order, he or she might be driving the only non-government vehicle capable of going anywhere.
Self-Defense:
Needless to say, during any kind of disaster, your safety and protection will be completely up to you. If you really think that the police are going to be able to protect you during an upheaval, you are living in a dreamworld.
In both the New Orleans and Los Angeles disasters, police protection was non-existent. Lawless gangs quickly took control of the streets, and people were left to either defend themselves or swiftly become the helpless prey of violent marauders. In fact, in New Orleans, some of the policemen actually abandoned their oaths to uphold the law and joined with the criminals, turning their weapons upon the public.
Face it, folks: in any kind of disaster, you must be able to defend yourself, or you and your family will be meat for these animals of society that will quickly descend without mercy upon the unprepared, unsuspecting souls around them. This requires that you be armed! It also requires that you be skilled enough to be able to efficiently use your arms.
Therefore, I strongly suggest that you purchase firearms sufficient to keep you and your family safe, and also that you practice sufficiently to know how to proficiently use them.
Now, when it comes to a discussion of which firearms are preferable for self-defense, the suggestions are as varied as the people who proffer them. These are my suggestions:
I believe every man (along with his wife and children of adequate age) should be proficient with the following weapons: a handgun in .38 caliber or above, a .22 rifle, a center-fire hunting rifle, a semi-automatic battle rifle, and a shotgun.
My personal preference for a self-defense handgun is either a .45 ACP 1911 (either Colt or Kimber) or a .40 S&W. In the .40 caliber, my favorite is a Glock 23. In the 1911, I like the Commander size configuration. I also like the Glock 30 and 36 in .45 caliber. My wife prefers to carry a Smith & Wesson .38 caliber revolver in the snub-nose, J-frame configuration. But this is primarily due to the reduced weight of these weapons for carry purposes. If needed, she could make a good accounting of herself with a Glock 19 in 9mm. If you are someone who has never owned and seldom fired a handgun, I recommend you buy a Glock. They are as simple as revolvers to operate, reliable, and almost indestructible. Plus, they provide increased magazine capacity, and are safe. They are also very easy to disassemble and clean.
For a .22 rifle, I really like the Ruger 10/22. For a hunting rifle, my suggestion is either a .270 or .30-06 caliber bolt-action rifle. (If I had to pick one, I'd pick the .30-06.) I prefer the Remington Model 700 BDL, but there are several fine weapons in this configuration and caliber by numerous manufacturers. For a battle rifle, I suggest an AR-15-style weapon in .223 caliber. Here I prefer a Bushmaster. (Please, I don't need to hear from all you .308 lovers out there. I love the Springfield M1A, too.) For a shotgun, I suggest a 12-gauge pump. Here I prefer a Winchester Model 1300, which is not made anymore. So, you'll probably have to choose between Mossberg and Remington.
Whatever you choose, practice with it to the point that you are able to use it proficiently. And be sure you stock up on ammunition. A gun without ammo is reduced to being either an expensive club or a cumbersome paperweight.
Spiritual Power:
I firmly believe that man is created to have fellowship with his Creator-God. I really don't know how people can face the uncertain future that we currently face without the spiritual knowledge, wisdom, comfort, and power that is made available through Jesus Christ. I believe the maxim is true: "Wise men still seek Him." I strongly suggest that you seek to possess a personal relationship with God's only begotten Son.That we are facing challenging days is a certainty. Exactly what that means is yet to be determined. I trust that some of my suggestions will help you be better prepared for what lies before.
us.http://www.chuckbaldwinlive.com/chuckwagon.php
Thursday, December 17, 2009
30 day survival List
Food/menu Suggested Items
Suggested Menus for Three Days
Day 1:Breakfast: Cold cereal, milk, juice, coffee or teaLunch: Peanut butter, bread, applesauce, cocoaDinner: Canned chili, crackers, corn, milk
Day 2: Breakfast: Toast, peanut butter, juice, coffee or teaLunch: Tuna, bread, peaches, cocoa or juiceDinner: Canned beef stew, crackers, pudding, milk
Day 3: Breakfast: Cold cereal, milk, juice, coffee or teaLunch: Cheese, crackers, pork and beans, fruit cocktail, cocoaDinner: Tomato or other soup, peanut butter, bread, applesauce, milk
Snacks: Pudding, dried fruits, small packages of peanuts or other nuts, cocoa, individual cans of juice, coffee or tea.
Suggested Grocery List(for 1 person, increase as needed for household)
Dry cereal - 1 (7-ounce) box
Crackers - 1 box (8-ounces or larger)
Peanut butter - 1 (12-ounce) jar
Canned juice - 1 6-pack of 6-ounce containers
Applesauce - 1 4-pack of 6-ounce containers
Peaches - 1 (8-ounce) can
Fruit cocktail - 1 (8-ounce) can
Pork and beans - 1 (8-ounce) can
Corn - 1 (8-ounce) can
Tuna - 1 (3 1/4-ounce) can
Processed cheese spread - 1 (8-ounce) box or 4 1/4-ounce jar
Beef stew - 1 small can or container
Chili - 1 small can or container
Tomato or other soup - 1 can
Cocoa - 1 box of individual packets
Pudding - 1 4-pack of 4 1/4-ounce containers
Raisins or dried prunes - 1 12-ounce package
Peanuts or other nuts - 1 package or jar
Tea - 1 box with 16 bags or 1 (2-ounce) jar instant coffee
Nonfat dried milk - 1 box
Bottled water - 1 gallon
If you have pets, remember to plan ahead for their needs also.
Staples
Food Storage Handling Hints
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Baking powder 18 months or Keep dry and covered.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Baking soda 2 years Keep dry and covered.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Bouillon cubes 1 year Keep dry and covered.
or granules
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Bread crumbs (dried) 6 months Keep dry and covered.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Bread, rolls 3 days
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Bulgur 6-12 months
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Cereals
- ready-to-eat, unopened 6-12 months Check date on package. Refold
- ready-to-eat, opened 2-3 months package liner tightly
after opening.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Hot cereal (dry) 6 months
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Chocolate
- premelted 12 months Keep cool.
- semi-sweet 18 months Keep cool.
- unsweetened 18 months Keep cool.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Cocoa Indefinitely
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Chocolate syrup
- unopened 2 years
- opened 6 months Cover tightly. Refrigerate
after opening.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Cocoa mixes 8 months Cover tightly.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Coffee
- cans, unopened 2 years Refrigerate after opening;
- cans, opened 2 weeks keep tightly closed. Use dry
- instant, unopened 1 to 2 years measuring spoon. Can be
- instant, opened 2 months frozen to extend shelf life.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Coffee lighteners
- unopened, dry 9 months Keep tightly covered.
- opened, dry 6 months Keep tightly covered.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Cornmeal 12 months Keep tightly covered. Can be
frozen for indefinite storage.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Cornstarch 18 months Keep tightly covered.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Flour - Can be frozen for indefinite storage.
- white 6-8 months Keep in airtight container.
Keep refrigerated.
- whole wheat 6-8 months Store in airtight container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Gelatin (all types) 18 months Keep in original container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Honey 12 months Cover tightly.
If crystallizes, warm opened
jar in pan of hot water.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Jellies, jams 12 months Cover tightly.
Refrigerate after opening.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Molasses
- unopened 2 years
- opened 6 months Keep tightly covered.
Refrigerate to extend
storage life.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Marshmallow cream
- unopened 3-4 months Cover tightly. Refrigerate
after opening to extend
storage life. Serve at room
temperature.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Marshmallows 2-3 months Keep in airtight container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Mayonnaise - unopened 2-3 months Check package date.
Refrigerate after opening.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Milk
- condensed or 12 months Refrigerate after opening.
evaporated, unopened
- nonfat dry
. unopened 6 months
. opened 3 months Store in airtight container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Pasta
- spaghetti,macaroni,etc. 2 years Once opened, store in
- egg noodles 6 months airtight container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Pectin
- liquid or dry 1 year or expiration date
. unopened
- liquid - opened 1 month Recap and refrigerate.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Rice
- white 2 years Keep tightly covered.
- brown, wild 6-12 months
- flavored or herb 6 months
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Salad dressings
- bottled, unopened 10-12 months
- bottled, opened 3 months Refrigerate after opening.
- made from mix 2 weeks Refrigerate prepared dressing.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Vegetable oils
- unopened 6 months
- opened 1-3 months Refrigeration not needed.
Store in a cool, dark place
in tightly closed container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Shortenings (solid) 8 months Refrigeration not needed.
Store in a cool, dark place
in tightly closed container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Sugar
- brown 4 months Put in airtight container.
- confectioners' 18 months Put in airtight container.
- granulated 2 years Cover tightly.
- artificial sweeteners 2 years Cover tightly.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Corn syrup Up to 3 years Keep tightly covered.
Refrigerate to extend storage
life. Remove any light
surface mold and heat to
180 �F before use.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Pancake syrup 3-4 months Refrigerate after opening.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Tea
- bags 18 months Put in airtight container.
- instant 3 years Cover tightly.
- loose 2 years Put in airtight container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Vinegar
- unopened 2 years
- opened 12 months Keep tightly covered.
Slightly cloudy appearance
doesn't affect quality.
Distilled vinegar keeps
longer than cider vinegar.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
http://www.foodlifeboat.com.au/
In Table 1 we provide an example of a food list providing 9 MJ per day for 10 weeks for one person that covers all known nutrient needs. This example was generated using the nutrient analysis software Foodworks® (5), which is based on the composition of Australian foods and commonly used by Australian dietitians. The recommended daily intake of specific macronutrients and micronutrients for adults and children is published by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing. Together, these two sources make it possible to compose diets with the appropriate quantity of nutrients. As the majority of the population has no access to detailed nutrient data, we have developed these examples to demonstrate what is needed and typical of what might be acceptable. We acknowledge that such food lists are culturally and ethnic-specific and that other food combinations are possible.
Table 1
An example of a food list providing 9 MJ per day. Daily food ration and purchase list for 10 weeks for one person is shown. The food covers all nutrient needs.
Food
g/day
kg/person/10 weeks
Milk powder, NS fat, dry*
65
4.6
Weet-Bix (regular) (Breakfast cereal)
30
2.1
Pasta, regular, dry
20
1.4
Instant noodles
20
1.4
Rice
25
1.8
Dehydrated potato flakes
15
1.1
Tortilla
10
0.7
Biscuit, savoury
15
1.1
Biscuit, wholemeal
20
1.4
Oil, canola
20
1.4
Powdered soup
20
1.4
Sweet chilli sauce
10
0.7
Tomato concentrate
10
0.7
Tuna, canned
60
4.2
Spam, regular
40
2.8
Lentils, dry
20
1.4
Peas, green canned
20
1.4
Three beans mix
50
3.5
Baked beans, canned in tomato sauce
20
1.4
Corn, canned
50
3.5
Sun-dried tomatoes
20
1.4
Milo (Beverage base)
10
0.7
Seaweed, dried
10
0.7
Raisins
30
2.1
Honey
10
0.7
Almonds
20
1.4
Apricots, dried, raw
20
1.4
Juice, carrot
50
3.5
Juice, orange
50
3.5
Vegemite (Yeast extract)
2
0.1
Chocolate
30
2.1
Total daily ration gives 9.0 MJ, providing 80 g protein, 80 g fat, thereof 23 g saturated fat (10 % of total energy intake is coming from saturated fat, and 31% of the fat intake is saturated fat), 18 g polyunsaturated fat (22% of the fat intake), 35 g monounsaturated fat (47% of the fat intake). The cholesterol intake is 101 mg per day. Percent of energy from protein, fat and carbohydrate: 16 E% protein, 34 E% fat, 50 E% carbohydrates. Recommended intake of all nutrients is covered for women and men, except for folate intake which is not covered for women of childbearing age, therefore they may consider a folate supplement. *In case of lactose intolerance, the intake of dry milk powder may be reduced and replaced by soy protein powder. Alternatively, the milk may be fermented and used in form of sour milk.
The cost of this diet for 10 weeks for one person is about $500. The most expensive items are: Milk powder, Weet-Bix, spam, chocolate.
Table 2
Example of a list of simple dry foods that will cover basic energy needs (9 MJ per day), and most nutrients except vitamin C and vitamin A. Daily food ration and purchase list for 10 weeks for one person is shown. The food items could be packed in airtight packages filled with inert gas of a few kilos per package, and stored in food stores throughout the country. In addition multivitamin tablets have to be provided.
Food
g/day
kg/person/10weeks
Wheat flour, wholemeal plain
150
10.5
Oats, raw
100
7.0
Oil, Canola
25
1.8
Milk powder, dry*
65
4.6
Lentils, dry
30
2.1
Peas, split, green/yellow, dry
40
2.8
Noodles, dry
50
3.5
Vegemite (yeast extract)
2
0.1
Fruit, mixed, dried
35
2.5
Almonds, raw
40
2.8
Multivitamin/mineral supplement
One tablet
One box
This example gives 9 MJ per day, with 80 g protein and 76 g fat, thereof 14 g saturated fat (6 % of the energy intake comes from saturated fat and 20% of the fat intake is saturated fat), 18 g polyunsaturated fat (26% of the fat is polyunsaturated fat) and 39 g monounsaturated fat (54% of the fat is monounsaturated fat). The daily cholesterol intake is 43 mg. Percent of energy from protein, fat and carbohydrate: 16 E% protein, 32 E% fat, 52 E% carbohydrates. Recommended intake of nutrients is covered for women and men, except for vitamin C and vitamin A, and these would have to be given as supplements and for women at childbearing age the intake of folate and iron is lower than recommended.
*In case of lactose intolerance, the intake of dry milk powder may be reduced and replaced by soy protein powder. Alternatively, the milk may be fermented and used in fermented, sour form.
In addition, about 2 litres of water per day per person would be required.
This diet costs about 250 $ for one person for 10 weeks. The most expensive items are: dry milk powder and noodles.
Additional items
Charcoal
Solor cooker
solar lights
batteries - all types
extra blankets
candies – chocolate
other items
Solar-powered Flashlight and Flashlight with extra batteries for each member of your family
Battery operated lanterns with extra batteries
Propane gas portable camping stove or grill (outside use only)
Waterproof Matches and lighter
Fire Extinguisher
Battery operated radio and/or Battery operated Television with extra batteries
Cellular telephone with solar re-charger
Gas operated portable electric generator (outside use only)
Properly “gauged” extension cord for use with your portable electric generator
Fuel for car, portable generator, or chain saw
5 gallon gas cans (at least 2)
Funnel for gas can
Battery operated fan
Hand operated can opener
30 day supply of prescription medications
Battery operated or wind-up Clock
First aid kit
Any special health care items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members
Cash
Plastic garbage bags with ties
Tools – nails, hammer, screw drivers, axe, crow bar, box cutter
Clean containers for storing drinking water (fill clean bathtubs with water for miscellaneous use; swimming pool water can be used for flushing toilets if there is no water pressure)
Bleach for sanitizing water
Water purifier
Paper plates, napkins or paper towels, plastic cups and utensils
12 volt refrigerator and ice chest
12 volt power converter
Food for pets
Rope or heavy cord
Work Gloves
Weather protection TARP covers
Duct tape
Protective shoes and clothing
Waterproof container for important documents
Homeowner’s insurance company contact information and other important documents
Camera
Food/menu Suggested Items
Suggested Menus for Three Days
Day 1:Breakfast: Cold cereal, milk, juice, coffee or teaLunch: Peanut butter, bread, applesauce, cocoaDinner: Canned chili, crackers, corn, milk
Day 2: Breakfast: Toast, peanut butter, juice, coffee or teaLunch: Tuna, bread, peaches, cocoa or juiceDinner: Canned beef stew, crackers, pudding, milk
Day 3: Breakfast: Cold cereal, milk, juice, coffee or teaLunch: Cheese, crackers, pork and beans, fruit cocktail, cocoaDinner: Tomato or other soup, peanut butter, bread, applesauce, milk
Snacks: Pudding, dried fruits, small packages of peanuts or other nuts, cocoa, individual cans of juice, coffee or tea.
Suggested Grocery List(for 1 person, increase as needed for household)
Dry cereal - 1 (7-ounce) box
Crackers - 1 box (8-ounces or larger)
Peanut butter - 1 (12-ounce) jar
Canned juice - 1 6-pack of 6-ounce containers
Applesauce - 1 4-pack of 6-ounce containers
Peaches - 1 (8-ounce) can
Fruit cocktail - 1 (8-ounce) can
Pork and beans - 1 (8-ounce) can
Corn - 1 (8-ounce) can
Tuna - 1 (3 1/4-ounce) can
Processed cheese spread - 1 (8-ounce) box or 4 1/4-ounce jar
Beef stew - 1 small can or container
Chili - 1 small can or container
Tomato or other soup - 1 can
Cocoa - 1 box of individual packets
Pudding - 1 4-pack of 4 1/4-ounce containers
Raisins or dried prunes - 1 12-ounce package
Peanuts or other nuts - 1 package or jar
Tea - 1 box with 16 bags or 1 (2-ounce) jar instant coffee
Nonfat dried milk - 1 box
Bottled water - 1 gallon
If you have pets, remember to plan ahead for their needs also.
Staples
Food Storage Handling Hints
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Baking powder 18 months or Keep dry and covered.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Baking soda 2 years Keep dry and covered.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Bouillon cubes 1 year Keep dry and covered.
or granules
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Bread crumbs (dried) 6 months Keep dry and covered.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Bread, rolls 3 days
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Bulgur 6-12 months
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Cereals
- ready-to-eat, unopened 6-12 months Check date on package. Refold
- ready-to-eat, opened 2-3 months package liner tightly
after opening.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Hot cereal (dry) 6 months
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Chocolate
- premelted 12 months Keep cool.
- semi-sweet 18 months Keep cool.
- unsweetened 18 months Keep cool.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Cocoa Indefinitely
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Chocolate syrup
- unopened 2 years
- opened 6 months Cover tightly. Refrigerate
after opening.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Cocoa mixes 8 months Cover tightly.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Coffee
- cans, unopened 2 years Refrigerate after opening;
- cans, opened 2 weeks keep tightly closed. Use dry
- instant, unopened 1 to 2 years measuring spoon. Can be
- instant, opened 2 months frozen to extend shelf life.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Coffee lighteners
- unopened, dry 9 months Keep tightly covered.
- opened, dry 6 months Keep tightly covered.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Cornmeal 12 months Keep tightly covered. Can be
frozen for indefinite storage.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Cornstarch 18 months Keep tightly covered.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Flour - Can be frozen for indefinite storage.
- white 6-8 months Keep in airtight container.
Keep refrigerated.
- whole wheat 6-8 months Store in airtight container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Gelatin (all types) 18 months Keep in original container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Honey 12 months Cover tightly.
If crystallizes, warm opened
jar in pan of hot water.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Jellies, jams 12 months Cover tightly.
Refrigerate after opening.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Molasses
- unopened 2 years
- opened 6 months Keep tightly covered.
Refrigerate to extend
storage life.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Marshmallow cream
- unopened 3-4 months Cover tightly. Refrigerate
after opening to extend
storage life. Serve at room
temperature.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Marshmallows 2-3 months Keep in airtight container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Mayonnaise - unopened 2-3 months Check package date.
Refrigerate after opening.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Milk
- condensed or 12 months Refrigerate after opening.
evaporated, unopened
- nonfat dry
. unopened 6 months
. opened 3 months Store in airtight container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Pasta
- spaghetti,macaroni,etc. 2 years Once opened, store in
- egg noodles 6 months airtight container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Pectin
- liquid or dry 1 year or expiration date
. unopened
- liquid - opened 1 month Recap and refrigerate.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Rice
- white 2 years Keep tightly covered.
- brown, wild 6-12 months
- flavored or herb 6 months
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Salad dressings
- bottled, unopened 10-12 months
- bottled, opened 3 months Refrigerate after opening.
- made from mix 2 weeks Refrigerate prepared dressing.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Vegetable oils
- unopened 6 months
- opened 1-3 months Refrigeration not needed.
Store in a cool, dark place
in tightly closed container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Shortenings (solid) 8 months Refrigeration not needed.
Store in a cool, dark place
in tightly closed container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Sugar
- brown 4 months Put in airtight container.
- confectioners' 18 months Put in airtight container.
- granulated 2 years Cover tightly.
- artificial sweeteners 2 years Cover tightly.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Corn syrup Up to 3 years Keep tightly covered.
Refrigerate to extend storage
life. Remove any light
surface mold and heat to
180 �F before use.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Pancake syrup 3-4 months Refrigerate after opening.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Tea
- bags 18 months Put in airtight container.
- instant 3 years Cover tightly.
- loose 2 years Put in airtight container.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Vinegar
- unopened 2 years
- opened 12 months Keep tightly covered.
Slightly cloudy appearance
doesn't affect quality.
Distilled vinegar keeps
longer than cider vinegar.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
http://www.foodlifeboat.com.au/
In Table 1 we provide an example of a food list providing 9 MJ per day for 10 weeks for one person that covers all known nutrient needs. This example was generated using the nutrient analysis software Foodworks® (5), which is based on the composition of Australian foods and commonly used by Australian dietitians. The recommended daily intake of specific macronutrients and micronutrients for adults and children is published by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing. Together, these two sources make it possible to compose diets with the appropriate quantity of nutrients. As the majority of the population has no access to detailed nutrient data, we have developed these examples to demonstrate what is needed and typical of what might be acceptable. We acknowledge that such food lists are culturally and ethnic-specific and that other food combinations are possible.
Table 1
An example of a food list providing 9 MJ per day. Daily food ration and purchase list for 10 weeks for one person is shown. The food covers all nutrient needs.
Food
g/day
kg/person/10 weeks
Milk powder, NS fat, dry*
65
4.6
Weet-Bix (regular) (Breakfast cereal)
30
2.1
Pasta, regular, dry
20
1.4
Instant noodles
20
1.4
Rice
25
1.8
Dehydrated potato flakes
15
1.1
Tortilla
10
0.7
Biscuit, savoury
15
1.1
Biscuit, wholemeal
20
1.4
Oil, canola
20
1.4
Powdered soup
20
1.4
Sweet chilli sauce
10
0.7
Tomato concentrate
10
0.7
Tuna, canned
60
4.2
Spam, regular
40
2.8
Lentils, dry
20
1.4
Peas, green canned
20
1.4
Three beans mix
50
3.5
Baked beans, canned in tomato sauce
20
1.4
Corn, canned
50
3.5
Sun-dried tomatoes
20
1.4
Milo (Beverage base)
10
0.7
Seaweed, dried
10
0.7
Raisins
30
2.1
Honey
10
0.7
Almonds
20
1.4
Apricots, dried, raw
20
1.4
Juice, carrot
50
3.5
Juice, orange
50
3.5
Vegemite (Yeast extract)
2
0.1
Chocolate
30
2.1
Total daily ration gives 9.0 MJ, providing 80 g protein, 80 g fat, thereof 23 g saturated fat (10 % of total energy intake is coming from saturated fat, and 31% of the fat intake is saturated fat), 18 g polyunsaturated fat (22% of the fat intake), 35 g monounsaturated fat (47% of the fat intake). The cholesterol intake is 101 mg per day. Percent of energy from protein, fat and carbohydrate: 16 E% protein, 34 E% fat, 50 E% carbohydrates. Recommended intake of all nutrients is covered for women and men, except for folate intake which is not covered for women of childbearing age, therefore they may consider a folate supplement. *In case of lactose intolerance, the intake of dry milk powder may be reduced and replaced by soy protein powder. Alternatively, the milk may be fermented and used in form of sour milk.
The cost of this diet for 10 weeks for one person is about $500. The most expensive items are: Milk powder, Weet-Bix, spam, chocolate.
Table 2
Example of a list of simple dry foods that will cover basic energy needs (9 MJ per day), and most nutrients except vitamin C and vitamin A. Daily food ration and purchase list for 10 weeks for one person is shown. The food items could be packed in airtight packages filled with inert gas of a few kilos per package, and stored in food stores throughout the country. In addition multivitamin tablets have to be provided.
Food
g/day
kg/person/10weeks
Wheat flour, wholemeal plain
150
10.5
Oats, raw
100
7.0
Oil, Canola
25
1.8
Milk powder, dry*
65
4.6
Lentils, dry
30
2.1
Peas, split, green/yellow, dry
40
2.8
Noodles, dry
50
3.5
Vegemite (yeast extract)
2
0.1
Fruit, mixed, dried
35
2.5
Almonds, raw
40
2.8
Multivitamin/mineral supplement
One tablet
One box
This example gives 9 MJ per day, with 80 g protein and 76 g fat, thereof 14 g saturated fat (6 % of the energy intake comes from saturated fat and 20% of the fat intake is saturated fat), 18 g polyunsaturated fat (26% of the fat is polyunsaturated fat) and 39 g monounsaturated fat (54% of the fat is monounsaturated fat). The daily cholesterol intake is 43 mg. Percent of energy from protein, fat and carbohydrate: 16 E% protein, 32 E% fat, 52 E% carbohydrates. Recommended intake of nutrients is covered for women and men, except for vitamin C and vitamin A, and these would have to be given as supplements and for women at childbearing age the intake of folate and iron is lower than recommended.
*In case of lactose intolerance, the intake of dry milk powder may be reduced and replaced by soy protein powder. Alternatively, the milk may be fermented and used in fermented, sour form.
In addition, about 2 litres of water per day per person would be required.
This diet costs about 250 $ for one person for 10 weeks. The most expensive items are: dry milk powder and noodles.
Additional items
Charcoal
Solor cooker
solar lights
batteries - all types
extra blankets
candies – chocolate
other items
Solar-powered Flashlight and Flashlight with extra batteries for each member of your family
Battery operated lanterns with extra batteries
Propane gas portable camping stove or grill (outside use only)
Waterproof Matches and lighter
Fire Extinguisher
Battery operated radio and/or Battery operated Television with extra batteries
Cellular telephone with solar re-charger
Gas operated portable electric generator (outside use only)
Properly “gauged” extension cord for use with your portable electric generator
Fuel for car, portable generator, or chain saw
5 gallon gas cans (at least 2)
Funnel for gas can
Battery operated fan
Hand operated can opener
30 day supply of prescription medications
Battery operated or wind-up Clock
First aid kit
Any special health care items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members
Cash
Plastic garbage bags with ties
Tools – nails, hammer, screw drivers, axe, crow bar, box cutter
Clean containers for storing drinking water (fill clean bathtubs with water for miscellaneous use; swimming pool water can be used for flushing toilets if there is no water pressure)
Bleach for sanitizing water
Water purifier
Paper plates, napkins or paper towels, plastic cups and utensils
12 volt refrigerator and ice chest
12 volt power converter
Food for pets
Rope or heavy cord
Work Gloves
Weather protection TARP covers
Duct tape
Protective shoes and clothing
Waterproof container for important documents
Homeowner’s insurance company contact information and other important documents
Camera
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Posted with permission from a very wise friend of mine, Doc Fung
THE SOUL SURVIVOR A PREPPER’S HOME COMPANION
bydocfung
the-soul-survivor-a-prepper-s-home-companion-t2536.html
FORWARD with words from Old Archer
I fear that with what is coming, the confluence of tyranny, economic chaos, and probable pandemics, the vast majority of people will not be able to adequately prepare to survive... THAT is the result of the tyranny that besets us, and it is not relegated solely to the works of the last four presidents... We've allowed our greed, our sloth, without attention to our responsibilities, to dictate our futures... We either hold those in our trust to be worthy, as in elected officials, or we suffer the consequences... It will be our GRANDCHILDREN, AND THEIRS, who may still be under the thrall of slavery, if there is not a redress of grievances, and soon... Freedoms and liberties won with the precious currency of life and blood, once lost, are exceedingly difficult, and more expensive, to regain...old archer…..
Societal Collapse
First off, we all should be aware that…if society collapses, and a support network of one kind or another, isn’t in place, the chances are you won’t survive. I’m not talking about internet friends here, I’m talking about meat world friends. Like minded friends and neighbors are probably one of the most important aspects of prepping. What then is a soul survivor?All preppers must remember this axiom….if your spiritual preps are not in order, then your survival will be an oxymoron. A strong mind, and a strong faith, are the lynch pins for a really prepared prepper. Remember, also, Old Archer’s admonition concerning the loss of freedoms and the wasting of the currency of life. Do not take his warnings lightly. Taking away our physical and spiritual means of survival will serious erode the fortress that is our prep mindset.Once gone, assets will be hard to regain. The purpose of this essay is not necessarily for survival retreat hints and tips…….the purpose of this essay is basically a challenge to the prepper as to where they are in a spiritually, mentally, and physically continuum…, if, god forbid, the ultimate challenge of a societal meltdown happens.
In SHTF scenarios, you must ask yourself if you will be able to stand the stress of everyday living. Will you have the spiritual wherewithal to stand the stresses of everyday living. Furthermore, if you do end up alone, will you be able to fend off the loneliness within the chaotic environment that many see if society melts down.
Going Gray and mentally.
Most likely the first layer of any perimeter defense during a societal breakdown would be becoming invisible. Even if your retreat is totally secluded, competent personal will be able to find you by your tracks, or other signs that signify that a person is living nearby. Therefore, walk softly, and by all means don’t leave tracks. Being invisible is not simple…it takes lots of thought. Anything that would indicate that civilization is near should be removed….Situational awareness is always a constant problem…..Keeping a low profile of course is essential. The mental aspects of going gray are a bit more complicated, for here, the gray prepper must learn to keep a low profile, most likely get off the net, and know who his/her real friends are at any given moment in time.
The Scenario the Nitty Gritty
First, rather than be the defender of the retreat, put your self in the shoes of a person who has survived…most likely in a city…and yet has no supplies. What will their mindset be? There’s nothing left within the boundaries of the cities, and the only folks with supplies live in rural areas….what to do?
Your defense, should be, designed in such a way that it is invisible to the prying eyes of possible intruders. Now here are some basic facts that need to be discussed. First off, those that haven’t prepped, but who have survived the first round of the collapse most likely won’t be stupid. They may be as cunning and as devious as you’ve been in preparing your defensive position…..They may have prepared an offensive position to counter your defenses.
If you are expecting throngs of zombies walking mindlessly outside your retreat, moving slowly and methodically toward your front door, waiting for the inevitable head shot that will terminate them permanently, you’ll be sadly mistaken. Expect the unexpected……remember, if a person is hungry or desperate enough, the threat of being terminated most likely won’t deter them. That’s why you have to be ready…fully prepped….and your retreat must be laid out in such a way that it is defendable. A heavily defensible retreat will not be the first place that the multitudes will attack….most likely, they’ll go after the easiest targets available.
WORST CASE SCENARIO IF ALONE
Ask yourself what are the odds of survival under a 100% worst case scenario. I would say, under such conditions the odds for survival would most likely be 50-60 % at the highest. You and your group have to know that, and prepare accordingly. The true survivalist must first of all take stock of his/her weaknesses and strengths. Be able to make up for those vulnerabilities in some way….each case will be different. Lastly ask yourselves the questions that need to be answered, for instance, how one would react under duress, and in the face of varied threats and scenarios.
This essay is not a ‘how to defend your retreat’ manual. Instead, it is intended for those readers who may consider themselves preppers, yet still don’t have a clue as to how they would react for wide spread chaos did occur.….
RULES TO LIVE BY
Take nobody for granted….ever…..TRUST IS EARNED
Never underestimate a threat just because it MAY seem harmless…..
Know the lay of the land…and be able to defend it.
A multi- faceted defense is better than having just one layer
Never assume anything….never..ever assume.
Know the mindset of your enemy…otherwise, you’ll be at a disadvantage.
Know your own mindset, and know how you’ll react in a panic situation.
Be stealthy….Know your weaknesses
Know your enemies strengths and weakness and use them to your advantage.
Above all, know yourself inside and out…AND beware of the overly friendly smiling faces.....http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GXSHRJYxTQ
Fictional version
This version comes from Kenneth Roberts' novel, Northwest Passage, in which an uneducated but veteran Ranger explains Roger's rules to the narrator, a former artist who joined Rogers:
1. Have your musket clean as a whistle, hatchet scoured, sixty rounds powder and ball, and be ready to march at a minute's warning.
2. When you're on the march, act the way you would if you was sneaking up on a deer. See the enemy first.
3. Tell the truth about what you see and what you do. There is an army depending on us for correct information. You can lie all you please when you tell other folks about the Rangers, but don't never lie to a Ranger or officer.
4. Don't never take a chance you don't have to.
5. When we're on the march we march single file, far enough apart so one shot can't go through two men.
6. If we strike swamps, or soft ground, we spread out abreast, so it's hard to track us.
7. When we march, we keep moving till dark, so as to give the enemy the least possible chance at us.
8. When we camp, half the party stays awake while the other half sleeps.
9. If we take prisoners, we keep 'em separate till we have had time to examine them, so they can't cook up a story between 'em.
10. Don't ever march home the same way. Take a different route so you won't be ambushed.
11. No matter whether we travel in big parties or little ones, each party has to keep a scout 20 yards ahead, 20 yards on each flank, and 20 yards in the rear so the main body can't be surprised and wiped out.
12. Every night you'll be told where to meet if surrounded by a superior force.
13. Don't sit down to eat without posting sentries.
14. Don't sleep beyond dawn. Dawn's when the French and Indians attack.
15. Don't cross a river by a regular ford.
16. If somebody's trailing you, make a circle, come back onto your own tracks, and ambush the folks that aim to ambush you.
17. Don't stand up when the enemy's coming against you. Kneel down, lie down, hide behind a tree.
18. Let the enemy come till he's almost close enough to touch, then let him have it and jump out and finish him up with your hatchet.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Rog ... Ranging%22
docfung over and out
THE SOUL SURVIVOR A PREPPER’S HOME COMPANION
bydocfung
the-soul-survivor-a-prepper-s-home-companion-t2536.html
FORWARD with words from Old Archer
I fear that with what is coming, the confluence of tyranny, economic chaos, and probable pandemics, the vast majority of people will not be able to adequately prepare to survive... THAT is the result of the tyranny that besets us, and it is not relegated solely to the works of the last four presidents... We've allowed our greed, our sloth, without attention to our responsibilities, to dictate our futures... We either hold those in our trust to be worthy, as in elected officials, or we suffer the consequences... It will be our GRANDCHILDREN, AND THEIRS, who may still be under the thrall of slavery, if there is not a redress of grievances, and soon... Freedoms and liberties won with the precious currency of life and blood, once lost, are exceedingly difficult, and more expensive, to regain...old archer…..
Societal Collapse
First off, we all should be aware that…if society collapses, and a support network of one kind or another, isn’t in place, the chances are you won’t survive. I’m not talking about internet friends here, I’m talking about meat world friends. Like minded friends and neighbors are probably one of the most important aspects of prepping. What then is a soul survivor?All preppers must remember this axiom….if your spiritual preps are not in order, then your survival will be an oxymoron. A strong mind, and a strong faith, are the lynch pins for a really prepared prepper. Remember, also, Old Archer’s admonition concerning the loss of freedoms and the wasting of the currency of life. Do not take his warnings lightly. Taking away our physical and spiritual means of survival will serious erode the fortress that is our prep mindset.Once gone, assets will be hard to regain. The purpose of this essay is not necessarily for survival retreat hints and tips…….the purpose of this essay is basically a challenge to the prepper as to where they are in a spiritually, mentally, and physically continuum…, if, god forbid, the ultimate challenge of a societal meltdown happens.
In SHTF scenarios, you must ask yourself if you will be able to stand the stress of everyday living. Will you have the spiritual wherewithal to stand the stresses of everyday living. Furthermore, if you do end up alone, will you be able to fend off the loneliness within the chaotic environment that many see if society melts down.
Going Gray and mentally.
Most likely the first layer of any perimeter defense during a societal breakdown would be becoming invisible. Even if your retreat is totally secluded, competent personal will be able to find you by your tracks, or other signs that signify that a person is living nearby. Therefore, walk softly, and by all means don’t leave tracks. Being invisible is not simple…it takes lots of thought. Anything that would indicate that civilization is near should be removed….Situational awareness is always a constant problem…..Keeping a low profile of course is essential. The mental aspects of going gray are a bit more complicated, for here, the gray prepper must learn to keep a low profile, most likely get off the net, and know who his/her real friends are at any given moment in time.
The Scenario the Nitty Gritty
First, rather than be the defender of the retreat, put your self in the shoes of a person who has survived…most likely in a city…and yet has no supplies. What will their mindset be? There’s nothing left within the boundaries of the cities, and the only folks with supplies live in rural areas….what to do?
Your defense, should be, designed in such a way that it is invisible to the prying eyes of possible intruders. Now here are some basic facts that need to be discussed. First off, those that haven’t prepped, but who have survived the first round of the collapse most likely won’t be stupid. They may be as cunning and as devious as you’ve been in preparing your defensive position…..They may have prepared an offensive position to counter your defenses.
If you are expecting throngs of zombies walking mindlessly outside your retreat, moving slowly and methodically toward your front door, waiting for the inevitable head shot that will terminate them permanently, you’ll be sadly mistaken. Expect the unexpected……remember, if a person is hungry or desperate enough, the threat of being terminated most likely won’t deter them. That’s why you have to be ready…fully prepped….and your retreat must be laid out in such a way that it is defendable. A heavily defensible retreat will not be the first place that the multitudes will attack….most likely, they’ll go after the easiest targets available.
WORST CASE SCENARIO IF ALONE
Ask yourself what are the odds of survival under a 100% worst case scenario. I would say, under such conditions the odds for survival would most likely be 50-60 % at the highest. You and your group have to know that, and prepare accordingly. The true survivalist must first of all take stock of his/her weaknesses and strengths. Be able to make up for those vulnerabilities in some way….each case will be different. Lastly ask yourselves the questions that need to be answered, for instance, how one would react under duress, and in the face of varied threats and scenarios.
This essay is not a ‘how to defend your retreat’ manual. Instead, it is intended for those readers who may consider themselves preppers, yet still don’t have a clue as to how they would react for wide spread chaos did occur.….
RULES TO LIVE BY
Take nobody for granted….ever…..TRUST IS EARNED
Never underestimate a threat just because it MAY seem harmless…..
Know the lay of the land…and be able to defend it.
A multi- faceted defense is better than having just one layer
Never assume anything….never..ever assume.
Know the mindset of your enemy…otherwise, you’ll be at a disadvantage.
Know your own mindset, and know how you’ll react in a panic situation.
Be stealthy….Know your weaknesses
Know your enemies strengths and weakness and use them to your advantage.
Above all, know yourself inside and out…AND beware of the overly friendly smiling faces.....http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GXSHRJYxTQ
Fictional version
This version comes from Kenneth Roberts' novel, Northwest Passage, in which an uneducated but veteran Ranger explains Roger's rules to the narrator, a former artist who joined Rogers:
1. Have your musket clean as a whistle, hatchet scoured, sixty rounds powder and ball, and be ready to march at a minute's warning.
2. When you're on the march, act the way you would if you was sneaking up on a deer. See the enemy first.
3. Tell the truth about what you see and what you do. There is an army depending on us for correct information. You can lie all you please when you tell other folks about the Rangers, but don't never lie to a Ranger or officer.
4. Don't never take a chance you don't have to.
5. When we're on the march we march single file, far enough apart so one shot can't go through two men.
6. If we strike swamps, or soft ground, we spread out abreast, so it's hard to track us.
7. When we march, we keep moving till dark, so as to give the enemy the least possible chance at us.
8. When we camp, half the party stays awake while the other half sleeps.
9. If we take prisoners, we keep 'em separate till we have had time to examine them, so they can't cook up a story between 'em.
10. Don't ever march home the same way. Take a different route so you won't be ambushed.
11. No matter whether we travel in big parties or little ones, each party has to keep a scout 20 yards ahead, 20 yards on each flank, and 20 yards in the rear so the main body can't be surprised and wiped out.
12. Every night you'll be told where to meet if surrounded by a superior force.
13. Don't sit down to eat without posting sentries.
14. Don't sleep beyond dawn. Dawn's when the French and Indians attack.
15. Don't cross a river by a regular ford.
16. If somebody's trailing you, make a circle, come back onto your own tracks, and ambush the folks that aim to ambush you.
17. Don't stand up when the enemy's coming against you. Kneel down, lie down, hide behind a tree.
18. Let the enemy come till he's almost close enough to touch, then let him have it and jump out and finish him up with your hatchet.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Rog ... Ranging%22
docfung over and out
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Missouri Seeking Protection from Federal Health Care Mandates
Add Missouri to 25 States Seeking Protection from Federal Health Care Mandates
Written by Right Side News
Monday, 07 December 2009 20:09
Representative Jones & Senator Cunningham to Hold Press Conference Regarding Filing of the Missouri Health Care Freedom Act
Proposed Measure Would Add Missouri to 25+ States Seeking to Protect their Citizens from Federal Health Care Mandates & to Protect their Right to Choose Their Own Health Care
JEFFERSON CITY-Representative Timothy Jones, R-Eureka, is announcing that he will join Senator Jane Cunningham, R-Chesterfield, on WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2009 AT 10:00am AT CHESTERFIELD CITY HALL (located at 690 Chesterfield Parkway West, Chesterfield, Missouri) to discuss legislation they each will be pre-filing this month for consideration during the 2010 legislative session that is designed to protect the health care freedom currently enjoyed by all Missourians.
Representative Jones and Senator Cunningham will introduce legislation in the form of a proposed state constitutional amendment that is designed to protect Missourians from federal health care mandates and guarantee Missourians the right to continue to choose their own health care and insurance options. The proposed legislation would also protect small business owners from the fines that are part of the current federal health care "reform" package that will be assessed for declining to participate in government run health care mandates.
The legislation would add Missouri to a list of over two dozen states calling for legislation or state constitutional amendments to guard citizens against attempts to socialize health care through the "public option" health care mandate currently under consideration by Congress. Arizona already has such a measure on its 2010 ballot.
"If this measure is passed by the Legislature, Missouri voters would have an opportunity to decide if they want to send a message to Washington that participation in an insurance plan is a personal right and a freedom which should not be infringed upon," Representative Jones said.
All are invited and encouraged to attend the press conference. For more information or to contact Representative Jones on this or any legislative matter, you may reach him at 573-751-0562
Source:
http://www.rightsidenews.com/200912087677/politics-and-economics/add-missouri-to-25-states-seeking-protection-from-federal-health-care-mandates.html
I encourage everyone to contact their State Representatives and tell them to support this legislation.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Missouri government plots undercover sting operations against families selling raw milk
Monday, December 07, 2009
by Mike Adams, the Health RangerEditor
of NaturalNews.com
(NaturalNews) Imagine being watched by two undercover cops as you engage in an illicit deal in a deserted parking lot. The buyer hesitantly hands you some cash. You flash a look over your shoulder, just to make sure the coast is clear, then you hand over the contraband. Neither of you says a word. You just nod, acknowledging the deal is done, then you head back to your car and buckle up for the drive home.
But before you can even put the car into drive, a screeching formation of police cars, surrounds you, sirens wailing. Armed officers leap from their vehicles, guns drawn and sunglasses glaring. "Come out with your hands up!" they shout.
You slowly open the driver's door of your car and inch out of your seat with both hands raised in surrender, cowering behind the open door. "What did I do, officer? What's my crime?"Their answer comes back loud and intimidating: "SELLING RAW MILK!"
Springfield Missouri: Where farmers are branded criminals
The above description is a dramatization of real events that happened recently in Springfield, Missouri, where the state has decided to spend considerable taxpayer resources running a sting operating against a family that was caught dealing -- gulp! -- raw milk in a parking lot.
Yes, both the Missouri Dept. of Health and the state Attorney General (Chris Koster) have decided that prosecuting a farm family for illegally "trafficking" raw milk should be at the top of their list of priorities. The family being targeted by state officials is the Bechard family, of Armand and Teddi Bechard, and their children Joseph, Hananiah, Kazia and Katie.
The name of the cow offering the milk is reportedly "Misty."
As the Springfield, Missouri News-Leader paper reports, "Two undercover investigators with the Springfield-Greene County Health Department allegedly caught two of the couple's daughters on two occasions selling a gallon of milk each from a Springfield parking lot. Charges followed in municipal court.
"In case you're not yet sure what you're reading here, note carefully that these daughters were not caught selling crack, meth or crank. They weren't dealing second-hand pharmaceuticals to yuppie school kids. They weren't selling e.coli-contaminated hamburger meat, cancer-causing diet sodas (made with aspartame) or canned soups laced with MSG. They weren't even selling broiler chickens contaminated with salmonella -- just as you can find in every grocery store in America. Nope, they were selling raw milk. You know, the bovine mother's milk, unpasteurized, unprocessed, non-homogenized and wholly pure, natural and innocent. The stuff America was raised on. The stuff your parents fed you when you were a kid, if your family was lucky enough to have a cow.
In Missouri today, selling such a natural product is now apparently a criminal act. What's next? A ban on farm-fresh eggs because the Dept. of Health doesn't control their quality? The outlawing of raw broccoli because broccoli contains natural anti-cancer medicine?
Fortunately, the Bechard family is fighting back.
As reported by the News-Leader:"They will not sign a consent order to make the state's complaint go away and they're defending themselves against the city charges, too. They've gotten legal help from the The Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund, a nonprofit organization made up of farmers and consumers pooling resources to fight for the rights of family farmers trying to get unprocessed food to consumers who want it."
A view from the Missouri-born Health Ranger
I grew up in Raytown, Missouri, just a few miles from Springfield. I spent more than a few summers on a farm near St. Louis, where we would milk the cows, gather fresh eggs from the chickens, and fish for catfish in the pond. I'm not exactly a farm boy, but I'm familiar enough with living off the land to know the difference between real food and processed food (a distinction the Missouri Dept. of Health still hasn't gleaned...)
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Welcome
We, the management team of this new community of preparedness sites and the Preparing For The Future Forum Board, would like to welcome everyone to our new home for the sharing of preparedness information and friendly support to help you get better prepared for the things that lie ahead due to the state of of the world we live in today. If you are reading this it means this state site has no contributors at this time. As we believe everyone who is preparing has knowledge to share, we invite you to become a contributor to your state site and help to build this community in to the best tool for the new people coming to our preparedness community. If you would like to join us in this endeavor please go to the forum link in the link bar above and just about anyone on the forum can give you info or contact WVSanta or nitewalker. Thanks and have a nice day, Gary.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
“Emergency Communication....What Works???”
“Emergency Communication....What Works???”
Original posting at Canadian Preppers Network
Edited and re-posted at American Preppers Radio Net
How people communicate with one another when land line phones, cell phones and the internet are at best unreliable or nonexistent, is one thing that seems to get very little attention and is wide open to speculation.
A small group trying to survive hard times (which, depending from your viewpoint seems inevitable) will need to have a plan to communicate with each other. Aside from carrier pigeons, or smoke signals, there are modern options to consider and prep for. Three most readily available are GMRS or FRS radios, CB radios, and Ham radio.
GMRS/FRS: These radios are good for short distances with little terrain interference. Used as pagers/communicators inside a building or a camp, GMRS/FRS radios offer low-cost & convenience. Small and easy to carry, GMRS/FRS radio family biggest drawback is their range. While fine as a group communications tool, they lack the ability of medium or long rage communications.
CB radios: Around for several years as an offshoot of Ham Radio,CB does not require a license and, unlike amateur radio, it may be used for business as well as personal communications. Enjoying a boom in the mid-seventies and are readily available today, CB radios are still the main short range communications choice for Truckers.
You can find CB’s fairly cheaply at yard sales and flea markets. Mandated by regulation as a low power device, the range on these radios is much greater when combined with a signal amplifier, or “Linear” Amp. It is not advocated using a linear amp, however for the most part, enforcement of the restrictions are few and often only when an illegal stations signal interferes with other communication methods. Long distance communication is possible when atmospheric conditions permit.
CB radios come in many different forms, ranging from legal 40 channel/4 watt models, to a grey-area type of “export radio”, that skirts legality by being built for ham radio use, but are easily modified for the CB band. Operating within the 10-12 Meter HF Band, CB radios need a longer antenna than UHF/VHF GMRS/FRS radios. The unregulated “outlaw” nature of CB radio often fills the airways with raucous and foul language. At times, it’s best to keep small children out of the radio shack when the CB is on.
Ham or Amateur Radio: Offers the farthest operating range, and broadest array of communication modes, from voice communication, to text, photo, video, and digital telemetry. Requiring a license to operate, ham radio is well organized and self regulated.
Ham radio is fairly cheap to get started in as there are many used radio bargains around. New ham radios cost run from hundreds, to several thousands of dollars, but with frugal shopping, one can set up a rather nice base station and talk all around the world.
Some of the best ham antennas are homemade, simple to conceal, wire antennas strung between trees. This type set up is very portable if need be, and can be setup almost anyplace. Mobile ham rigs are available that can talk all over the world... A typical ham might check into a long distance radio net during a morning commute, rag chew with regular’s everyday from Florida to Canada and make contacts from east coast to west coast hams with ease.
Choosing a way to communicate outside normal everyday methods, can be a daunting task. So much of it depends on your needs, but how you apply your limited resources, and for what return is inconsequential as long as your ability to get your message heard at a critical time can be assured. For further help in weighing options and to learn more about what choices are available, these websites can be of some help.
Links that you may like
CB/Ham and Other
Ham Radio In US
Ham Radio In US
Ham Radio In US
Ham radio in Canada
Ham radio in Canada
(C) 2009 W4DMH.com
Original posting at Canadian Preppers Network
Edited and re-posted at American Preppers Radio Net
How people communicate with one another when land line phones, cell phones and the internet are at best unreliable or nonexistent, is one thing that seems to get very little attention and is wide open to speculation.A small group trying to survive hard times (which, depending from your viewpoint seems inevitable) will need to have a plan to communicate with each other. Aside from carrier pigeons, or smoke signals, there are modern options to consider and prep for. Three most readily available are GMRS or FRS radios, CB radios, and Ham radio.
GMRS/FRS: These radios are good for short distances with little terrain interference. Used as pagers/communicators inside a building or a camp, GMRS/FRS radios offer low-cost & convenience. Small and easy to carry, GMRS/FRS radio family biggest drawback is their range. While fine as a group communications tool, they lack the ability of medium or long rage communications.
CB radios: Around for several years as an offshoot of Ham Radio,CB does not require a license and, unlike amateur radio, it may be used for business as well as personal communications. Enjoying a boom in the mid-seventies and are readily available today, CB radios are still the main short range communications choice for Truckers.
You can find CB’s fairly cheaply at yard sales and flea markets. Mandated by regulation as a low power device, the range on these radios is much greater when combined with a signal amplifier, or “Linear” Amp. It is not advocated using a linear amp, however for the most part, enforcement of the restrictions are few and often only when an illegal stations signal interferes with other communication methods. Long distance communication is possible when atmospheric conditions permit.
CB radios come in many different forms, ranging from legal 40 channel/4 watt models, to a grey-area type of “export radio”, that skirts legality by being built for ham radio use, but are easily modified for the CB band. Operating within the 10-12 Meter HF Band, CB radios need a longer antenna than UHF/VHF GMRS/FRS radios. The unregulated “outlaw” nature of CB radio often fills the airways with raucous and foul language. At times, it’s best to keep small children out of the radio shack when the CB is on.
Ham or Amateur Radio: Offers the farthest operating range, and broadest array of communication modes, from voice communication, to text, photo, video, and digital telemetry. Requiring a license to operate, ham radio is well organized and self regulated.
Ham radio is fairly cheap to get started in as there are many used radio bargains around. New ham radios cost run from hundreds, to several thousands of dollars, but with frugal shopping, one can set up a rather nice base station and talk all around the world.
Some of the best ham antennas are homemade, simple to conceal, wire antennas strung between trees. This type set up is very portable if need be, and can be setup almost anyplace. Mobile ham rigs are available that can talk all over the world... A typical ham might check into a long distance radio net during a morning commute, rag chew with regular’s everyday from Florida to Canada and make contacts from east coast to west coast hams with ease.
Choosing a way to communicate outside normal everyday methods, can be a daunting task. So much of it depends on your needs, but how you apply your limited resources, and for what return is inconsequential as long as your ability to get your message heard at a critical time can be assured. For further help in weighing options and to learn more about what choices are available, these websites can be of some help.
Links that you may like
CB/Ham and Other
Ham Radio In US
Ham Radio In US
Ham Radio In US
Ham radio in Canada
Ham radio in Canada
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