PREPARE Magazine August 2013

How vulnerable

are you to cyber threats?

Alternative Currency During a Crisis

Hammocks!

Top 8 Barter items and Where to Find Them

Understanding

Creative Solutions in an Economic Storm AUGUST 2013

Donna Miller www.preparemag.com Publishing Mainline Marketing Group, LLC Advertising 800-361-1797, Ext 8 advertising@preparemag.com Subscriptions www.preparemag.com/ subscribe subscription@preparemag.com Support Services www.preparemag.com/support support@preparemag.com Community Connections contributors@preparemag.com Chief Vision Officer Joseph Miller Managing Editor Donna Miller Legal Compliance J.S. Defner, Esq. Design and Graphics Coolbrees Studio LeverageChile.com Contributing Editors Kelly Thomas Britt M.

Table of Contents

Additional Contact: P.O. Box 934, Burnsville, NC 28714 Fax: 800-891-0973

• • • • • •

Have you ever held cash and coin in your hand and wondered why such importance is put on these small pieces of paper and metal? Our monetary system is so tied into this type of representative object, such as paper bills and coins that hold now only a trace of the actual precious metal. This issue of PREPARE Magazine is full of helpful articles to broaden our view of currency and look for alternatives.

One of the first places we may all need to start is to Understand Creative Solutions in an Economic Storm and learn to use an Alternative Currency during a Crisis. Even planning for that alternative is wise, by making a suggested list of the Top 8 Barter items and Where to Find Them. Perhaps you’ve wondered if We Need to Borrow More and if it’s the Ethical Thing to Do. All the while searching through-out the internet and not knowing just How Vulnerable are you to Cyber Threats!

Of course the small things affect each family’s monetary plan. So we bring a wider view to this topic by inviting you to look at the quality of Hammocks and Poncho Versatility. Food and space are often impacted by a lack of funds, so Building an Easy Hydroponics System may be a solution that fits your budget.

Heath care may be expensive now, but in a crisis it may be non-existent. The Survival Medicine Handbook may help now and later to save not only money but something of more value: a life.

Struggling through finances may be a way of getting prepared for an economic system that could change rapidly, so there is a brighter side to looking at alternatives now. All the while, one of the most important things is to avoid The lure of being lulled by what is going on around us.

But above all the preparedness we can muster with the currency we have or the alternative to it, The Greatest Preparation goes far beyond monetary value.

We at PREPARE Magazine, are humbled by the vast number of people who walk this preparedness life. As we connect with you, daily we are reminded how honored we are to be of service and hope each issue, digital or print, will Encourage, Empower, and Enrich your journey.

Yours in Service, Donna Miller, Managing Editor of PREPARE Magazine Keep an eye on what’s coming!

July/August Print Issue: Alternative Everything!

September Digital Theme: Preparing for Natural Disasters

Letter from the Editor Alternative Currency During a Crisis by Trent Powers Top 8 Barter items and Where to Find Them by Craig L. Johnson We Need to Borrow More: It’s the Ethical Thing to Do by Rod Robison Understanding Creative Solutions in an Economic Storm by Dr. Kal Sellers DC, MH How vulnerable are you to cyber threats? by Bill & Janet Liebsch

• • • • • • •

Poncho Versatility by Ken Youngquist Book Review: The Survival Medicine Handbook, Second Edition by Vickilynn Haycraft The lure of being lulled. by Lynn Drury Building an Easy Hydroponics System

by Pierce Jacobson Hammocks! by Jason Hunt Special Thank You Page The Greatest Preparation by Jeff Rowland

Letter from the Editor

PREPARE Magazine

Alternative Currency During a Crisis

By Trent Powers In the initial stages of a collapse, money will retain its value in people's minds because for centuries coin has held allure. Habits cannot be broken overnight. A handful of gold coins are still a handful of coins. A suitcase stuffed with bills would still makes a person's eyes shine and their palms sweat. That is until they get hungry and dehydrated and realize the food lines are shut down and the grocery stores are shuttered.

Value is based on supply of and the demand for something. When the financial system collapses, a dollar bill is essentially only good as a fire starter.

However, people will refuse to accept this for weeks, months and possibly even for years. People will want money and will hoard it in hopes that the situation will change.

Money in the traditional sense will not be a tangible asset. You have a wallet full of one hundred dollar bills but your neighbors know that paper money is no good. What can be bought with it once the manufacturing sector is shut down? The government has collapsed so there are no monetary policies and there are no stores to walk into. Once people realize the situation is for real your one hundred dollar bills will not be able to buy one loaf of bread from friends or neighbors.

Assets What you have as far as possessions (tangible goods), as well as your knowledge and your training will be the new currency. You will have assets that can be used to purchase goods from others, and they too will have assets.

Precious Metals Most people recognize the fact that gold and silver have value because it is finite; in other words, there is a limited supply of it, just like land. There is no way to produce land, gold or silver and when every square foot of land is occupied and every ounce of silver and

gold is mined then you can essentially name your price; if there is still a market.

Having too much gold and silver on hand will likely result in you becoming a target for thieves and you will never receive the full value when trading. Once the crisis has extended for a period people will not sell food and water, and those that are willing will not necessarily care what the price of gold is because it is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it or trade for it. You may end up giving several ounces for a week's worth of produce, a dozen eggs or gallon of bleach so you can disinfect a water supply.

Consider gold jewelry such as rings and watches instead of gold bars or coins. Consider how you would break up an ounce bar of gold to pay for what would normally only be a few dollars worth of items. People can better understand the value of a gold ring or watch or other items made of gold. It will be difficult to get someone to understand the value of a sliver of gold shaved off an ounce bar to pay for supplies.

You should have gold and silver in small quantities because there will always be someone who will take it for currency. However, spending large amounts of money today to have a hoard of silver and gold for a crisis is not recommended. A large portion of your current cash supply should be used to purchase tangible items such as tobacco products, alcohol and over the counter medications.

Skills and Knowledge Medical, carpentry, engineering, agriculture and veterinary services will be highly valued skills that can be used as currency when the dollar is no longer tradable. Currency will be whatever you have that someone else needs or wants.

Clothing, jewels, food, medicine and water can all be used as currency but food and water will be valuable not only in trade but for your very survival.

You need to make sure you keep things to yourself and not brag about or assume anyone has your best interest in mind. People will be looking for those prepared, because regardless of the warning, the signs and information available, many will not prepare for the crisis. Security is important for you and your family, and you must remain vigilant at all times.

Top 8 Barter items and Where to Find Them

By Craig L. Johnson In a short or long time emergency situation bartering will be an important skill to have and master. As many items as you may have prepared and stored away, there will always be something you may need that you are short of or have none of. Bartering can be tricky though and has to be approached carefully to preserve Operational Security (OpSec). Being too trusting with the wrong folks could get you in trouble and put you on the defensive with people with bad intentions. I will discuss that towards the end of the article.

With that in mind, let’s talk about important items to barter and where to find them. I have listed these items in my order of importance, but you might have a different idea of where they belong on this list. Feel free to rearrange them as you see fit.

Water - Without a doubt, water is the most important survival resource you can have. Our bodies cannot live without it for more than 3 days. Plants need it to grow.

Pets and other animals need it to live also. All things being equal I would not barter away my water supply.

Instead I would show others how to gather water, purify water, find water, store water, etc. In that way you are showing the way to others in how to care for themselves. Handy items to acquire are two liter bottles and good filtration system for both the house and the field.

Lighting/Fire - Fire is an essential tool man has had for

many years. Fire is useful for many things such as: cooking, light, heat, purifying water, making tools, and weapons, etc. There are many ways to start fires and as such it is your best interest to be knowledgeable in as many ways as possible to start them. I would set aside plenty of matches, disposable lighters and so forth in addition to nontraditional means of starting fire such as magnesium fire starters, fire steel, steel wool/batteries.

Have a majority of these items set aside for yourself, but also, if possible, set aside some to trade with others.

Additionally, items that can provide light such as lanterns of various sorts, flashlights, candles, etc. are always good to have on hand in abundance.

Food - Food is important, of course, to sustain yourself and make energy for your body to work. The many ways to obtain food will not be discussed in this article.

However, as mentioned previously, teach those who would barter with you how to grow their own food, raise livestock, hunt and butcher wild game, catch fish, etc. If you have extra food and feel like sharing to get something you need, then do so.

Medicine - In a short or long term emergency, medicine may be in short supply. It’s best to stock up on many items that are in abundant supply now and may not be later. Examples include: Pain Medicines such Aspirin, Upset Stomach Medicine, and of course first aid supplies like band aids, first aid creams, gauze pads, etc. If you have any medical skills such as First

Aid and CPR, EMT, etc., that puts you in better position to help yourself and others. If you don’t have these skills, you should acquire them (more about that later).

As mentioned before if you have medical supplies to trade they will definitely be a hot commodity.

Seeds - The seed trade is alive and well no matter where you are. I would definitely recommend stocking up on as many seeds as you can. Seeds could be used as a form of raw currency very easily, as many can be obtained for very little upfront cost. The more you have the more you can trade for future use.

Cooking Gear - Cooking Gear can be easily obtained and is needed gear. Cast iron skillets, camp-type cookware, etc are all great to stock up on and use for trade

Skills - Probably one of the best investments you can make for bartering is developing your own personal skills. Skills can definitely be traded. For example locally I am friends with a woman who is a farmer. I myself know nothing about raising animals or “farm life” beyond plants and gardening. However, I do know about firearms, self defense, survival, situational awareness, and medical needs from my law enforcement and EMT training and experience.

Therefore, we have worked out a trade of skills for skills. Assess what skills you have and what skills you would like to learn and work with people that can help you learn more. You never know when these skills could come in handy.

Tools - Tools could be in short supply, especially in a long term emergency or disaster. It’s a great idea to try and acquire lots of good tools to have just in case. If you find a stash of lower quality tools maybe those

could be used as trade items. Think of tools like screwdrivers, wrenches, hammers, screws, nails. etc.

After reading all the above you might be wondering where do I find all of these items and how much will it all cost? Good places to start are garage sales, estate sales, thrift stores, flea markets, etc. You might also try discount or dollar stores such as Dollar General, Walmart, etc. Online you can try places like: Ebay, Craigslist, etc. With a little searching and digging you might be surprised what you can find for not much money.

In summary, there are many items to consider for bartering needs. Assess what YOU think is the most pertinent and go from there. Remember to consider Operational Security (OpSec) when bartering; like a good poker player you never want to reveal your hand.

Thanks for reading, be safe out there and prep on!

We Need to Borrow More: It’s the Ethical Thing to Do.

By Rod Robison

There’s this couple who has an ongoing argument about being in debt.

Each year they spend everything they make (about $100,000) – putting nothing in savings -- then they borrow around another $80,000 each year so they can spend more. As you can imagine, over the years they’ve racked up an enormous debt. The wife has some sense about her, arguing that they should at least slow down their spending and stop borrowing. In fact, the last time he insisted on borrowing more money, she said she wouldn’t sign the papers unless he promised to stop spending so much money.

He, on the other hand, makes the argument that they HAVE to borrow more money so they can pay the bills they’ve already racked up. To do otherwise would be irresponsible. He can’t believe she would refuse to borrow more money when they have obligations.

I suspect by now you may have guessed that this couple is merely a metaphor for our leadership in D.C. The argument our imaginary husband is making is precisely the

one put forth by those in our federal government insisting on raising the debt ceiling-- otherwise known as borrowing more money —without corresponding cuts in real spending.

Rather than actually lowering spending (real spending, not just the rate of increase) they argue that it would be irresponsible to not borrow more money because we have to pay the bills we’ve already obligated ourselves to. They’ve managed to spin fiscal irresponsibility into an ethical issue that compels them to borrow more. If you’ve been paying attention, you’ve heard them: “Those who hold hostage raising the debt ceiling,” they argue, “don’t want us to pay our bills.”

The insinuation is obvious – to insist on lowering spending as a condition of raising the debt ceiling is to be unethical. Those few who insist on accountability and stewardship of our tax dollars are cast as the bad guys. And those who would squander our hard earned money and, more importantly, our children’s futures, are the saints.

Isaiah 5:20 comes immediately to mind: “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness….”

This is the type of upside down thinking and ethics that brings nations to their knees economically and a lot of other ways.

Regardless of your or my political stripes—because there are upside down politicians and bureaucrats on both sides of the aisle-hopefully one thing preppers can agree on is that we cannot rely on Washington to get right side up any time soon. So rather than point fingers at which party is most responsible for wrecking the economy, we’d be better served making certain that our own economic houses are in order. One of the most critical preparations is getting out of debt while getting and keeping your household spending under control. In other words, do for yourself and your family exactly the opposite of what most of our government leaders are doing.

Understanding Creative Solutions in an Economic Storm

By Dr. Kal Sellers DC, MH

There are many ways to prepare for the future. Perhaps the most beneficial ways involve preparing yourself and your community to be creative. There is a science to being creative, not just an art. In this article, we shall explore creative solutions to problems both old and new. We shall discuss some creative solutions that are specific to economic uncertainty.

Everyone is talking about gold and silver and other solid assets of intrinsic value. Since our dollar here in the United States became fiat currency (has an agreed upon or manipulated value) rather than a representation of the actual presence of a hard asset (previously this was gold) the discussion of how to manage economic problems has been going on. The whole world today is run on fiat currency. The benefit of and the problem with such currency is that someone gets to decide on the value. In today’s world, agreements between world leaders, bankers and others behind the scenes determine the value of world currencies and their relation to one another. This is not to say there are no rules. Obviously,

rules are required to keep the determined value realistic for the people who actually spend the money.

It is not the intent LINKS of this article to give much of an economics lesson. That is boring to most of us and has limited practical value for most of us beyond the above stated. What is important to understand is that our economy today is mostly determined by agreements; meaning that it is largely, if not wholly, arbitrary. Such an economy can collapse due to world events that do not even have to happen here. It can also collapse due to choices by those who manipulate the system. We all hope they are feeling benevolent or at least focused on a good cause.

Regardless of the intents of those in high places, the reality is that any and every life is volatile if it is dependent on central resources for its survival. That is to say, if what you need to live day to day comes from some faraway place , it is a central resource. Typically, somewhere out there lots of whatever it is, is made and

then transported somehow to you. In this situation, if that supply is cut, your life ends or becomes very desperate.

The opposite of total dependence on central resources is the path of becoming a complete island, dependent only on yourself. An island need only suffer a very small interruption in the status quo that just affects him or her. This is likewise unsafe and unwise. We need a combination of community and individual selfreliance to make a stable society. We do not need central resources at such extremes, but rather local central resources where community works together.

Each individual also has a responsibility to live providently and as self-sustainably as possible.

We could take this same foundational discussion in any direction, but we shall discuss it relative to economy.

First, let us discuss human economy in a practical way.

This is not economics as it exists today, but is a simple and basic awareness about all human economy. It is important to understand our most basic needs. While gold and silver do hold intrinsic value, even for the author, the fact remains that no quantity of gold will purchase the last bit of food in the author’s house unless he knows how to get or grow more. Once he is fed, the same is true of his clothing. His safety, the safety of his family and having a place of refuge—all these are in there somewhere as priorities. Once again, unless he has a chance of replacing these things immediately, no amount of gold will buy them from him. Where gold comes in handy is where basic needs are taken care of or where gold can certainly supply those needs through purchasing available stores. As long as this is true, gold is valuable. Unlike the minted money today, gold and silver and other natural resources have intrinsic value. This means that they are actually good for something and there is a certain rarity to them.

This rarity creates a value that is not volatile, but is permanent and stable. Some things are arbitrarily rare, such as diamonds. This means that enormous supplies are held back in order to increase the value of what is had. Therefore, such things have an added volatility as things of value.

With the foregoing, we begin to understand the spectrum of human economy, from the most basic (food, safety) to the most elaborate (the enormous, intricate mess of modern money value). With this in mind, we can, with no additional training, begin to prioritize our emphasis in preparedness.

A personal garden, personal food storage, knowing edible plants and participating (actively, doing some of the work) in a Community Supported Agriculture farm for table produce are all at the foundational level of preparedness. Ideally, it is well to live in a home that is also designed to function independent of central resources. Unlike the home, which is very important to the author, the food is actually a form of currency! If someone would not trade his last loaf of bread for a bushel of gold, then (nothing against gold, gold is great!), gold is relatively worthless. Food storage, on the other hand, is relatively priceless.

So in developing economic preparedness, the place to start is food and a home. Homes can come with an attached volatility in the form of debt. If this is the case, then one might exert every effort to pay that off or be prepared for future payments beyond this month. While dollars in the open market can be pretty volatile, usually a home mortgage can be paid with the same number of dollars each time, no matter what they are worth on the open market.

In the investing world, there is a phrase, “guns or butter.” Butter is consumed—like food—and its value is valid but it is transient and more is required. Food storage is important and, as mentioned, is the most valuable commodity a person can have. On the other hand, when a person begins to spend money above reasonable food storage, he wants to think in terms of guns, not butter. Guns are a metaphor for items that do not lose their value quickly or may even increase in value. Gold and silver are “guns” in this metaphor. So also are tools, education or skills, houses to rent or sell or barter, land on which to grow produce, ability to find other resources (like finding precious metals,

identifying wild food) ability to make resources (gunsmith skills, literally or metaphorically).

Robert Kiyosaki, in his book, “Rich Dad, Poor Dad,” wrote that in an emergency or calamity, “assets feed you,” while “liabilities eat you.” By this definition, many “assets” might prove to be liabilities.

When we engage in the work of preparedness, we want to consider these ideas then: Do we have the priceless necessities stored and in reserve? Are we prepared to meet money demands for at least a few months in advance? Are we putting our efforts into

creative solutions that make us both resources and resourceful? Are we investing in and storing guns instead of butter, metaphorically? Are we focusing on being self-sufficient and contributing members of a community where we can support one another?

If we are doing the above and putting our efforts into that kind of work and learning, then we are going to be prepared. We are moving in the right direction and are improving our resourcefulness and we will be able to adapt. Preparedness, in the final analysis, is about adaptability. Everything we do, if we do it right, will push us to that end.

Spring, Well, Pressured & Rain Water.

Locally owned and operated

M  P C, NC

We create solutions for all your Water Containment Systems.

Clean, Lightweight, Easy to Install, Durable.

How vulnerable are you to cyber threats?

By Bill & Janet Liebsch

Love it or hate it, the vast majority of us are constantly connected to the Internet using some type of handheld device or computer to communicate with others and conduct business. Improved battery, chip and wireless technologies combined with reasonably priced smart phones, tablets, readers and gaming devices have allowed the digital world to permeate into almost every facet of our lives.

We will try to keep our “geek speak� to a minimum, but the goal here is to mention some things you should be aware of and steps you can take to help protect devices and systems from various types of cyber threats.

Secure and protect your devices

And, as more people migrate to mobile and cloud services for communication and commerce, cybercriminals will continue to evolve and increase their attacks and threats.

Did you know‌ there are over 2.7 billion active Internet users and 6.8 billion mobile subscribers worldwide; 55% of American adult cell owners use the internet on their mobile phones; 75 Million Scam emails are sent every day claiming 2,000 victims; 8,200 new unique threats are found every hour according to Trend Micro; 73% of Americans have experienced some form of cyber crime?

Make sure computers and all wireless devices have current anti-virus software and firewalls, schedule them to scan daily or weekly, and update virus patterns often. If you own or manage a business, encourage employees to protect their personal home devices too.

If you use a wireless router to access the Internet, secure it. Change the name of your router from the default ID (usually SSID or ESSID) to a name that is unique to you and won’t be easily guessed by others.

Change the pre-set password on your router to a long and strong password using a combination of letters, numbers and symbols.

Also, set your router’s level of security to either WPA2 (if available) or WPA since they are more secure than the WEP option. And finally, some routers allow for guests to use the network via a separate (or guest) password. If you have kids or many visitors in your home, it is a good idea to set up a guest network. Your provider should have instructions on all (or most) of these procedures.

Set security preferences as high as possible on Internet browsers and anti-virus packages.

Although it is best to not open emails or attachments from unknown sources, that’s not always feasible especially in the business world. But consider saving the attached files into a temporary directory and scan them before opening.

Create long passwords using a combination of letters, numbers and special characters; change them often and don’t share them with others. And don’t use the same password for all your accounts!

Don’t access financial institutions from mobile devices using apps or email links. Instead, visit banking and credit card sites directly using a browser window. And limit the use of apps on social networking sites too since they can have security weaknesses and flaws.

Speaking of credit cards, check the backs of your cards to see if they have radio-frequency identification chips (RFID) or Near Field Communication (NFC) chips that are embedded in credit and debit cards. (Visa calls its technology payWave, MasterCard is PayPass, Discover brands it Zip, and American Express calls it ExpressPay.) If any of your cards have a phrase, symbol or chip, consider using RFID-blocking shields or wallets, which generally use aluminum or steel to keep out prying eyes. There are even instructions on the Web about how to give your existing wallet RFIDinhibiting protection using duct tape and aluminum foil.

Be aware there are lots of “scareware” scams online! Do NOT download or click on a screen that says it found “X number of viruses or spyware on your system” suggesting you download their package -- it will most likely be a virus.

Beware of “ransomware” (malware that prevents you from using your computer until you pay a fine) and “madware” (mobile adware – esp. apps - that can potentially expose location details, contact data, and device identifiers to cybercriminals) since they are predicted to be major issues going forward.

Also beware of “smishing” (a combination of SMS texting and phishing) and “vishing” (voice and phishing) scams. Typically these involve you receiving a text message or an automated phone call on your cell phone saying there’s a problem with your bank account. You are given a phone number to call or a website to log into and asked to provide personal identifiable information—like a bank account number, PIN, or credit card number—to fix the problem. Do not respond to unsolicited e-mails, texts or phone calls requesting personal data, and never click on links or attachments contained within unsolicited e-mails or messages.

Backup data often and keep a daily or weekly backup off-site. And keep in mind, if you back up data using the cloud (rather than using an external drive or other local device) you may not be able to access your data if there is a disaster or emergency limiting access to the web.

Make sure someone knows how to download patches or fixes in case a computer or system gets infected.

If your business or employer is hacked, file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov Learn more about Internet safety www.staysafeonline.org or www.us-cert.gov

at

Subscribe at: www.preparemag.com/print-subscription

we are pleased to announce PREPARE magazine is now

available in full-color glossy print Order a year subscription now and lock-in the current discount subscription cost!

and

ri En

01 e2 Jun

y

rne

ou

rJ

gY ou

hin

ric

En

nd

ga

rin

ing Gr ow

r

ckin g

pp ing

For

ag

ing

Pa

F

Tra

we

mp o

,E

ing

eri ow

2

ric

Find ing a nd P

28%

dp

ing

tan

rag

ws

201

2

RE A EP R P chin

ng

mp ,E

ing rag cou En

cou

ne

July

En

off

no w

PR EP AR E

save

SURoVod foerparing IVAL

subs crib e

PREPARE print is a bi-monthly (six issues) full-print subscription delivered to your home via USPS. Your subscription begins with the first publication available after your subscribe date. our gY

y rne

Jou

Building an Easy Hydroponics System

By Pierce Jacobson

Hydroponics, simply put, is a method of growing terrestrial plants in water without soil.

Terrestrial plants are plants that grow on or in land/soil. Soil traps water so the roots of a plant can absorb the nutrients from the water, such as dissolved oxygen and any plant nutrients placed in the water. Soil also acts as a stabilizer for the plants. You cannot simply throw a seed in a pail of water and expect it to grow; it does need a medium, but that medium does not have to be soil.

Plants can be grown anywhere there is light, either artificial or real sunlight.

The Basics http://blogs.millersville.edu/ hydroponics897/2012/10/17/nft/

The above-depicted illustration shows the basic concept. You can use a plastic storage container, fish tank, bucket or any container that can hold water. If you are using a plastic storage container the lid can act as a grow tray by cutting holes in the lid that allow plants in a cup, for example, to be suspended above the water where the roots can dangle in the water.

Plants absorb water, nutrients and oxygen through their root system.

h t t p : / / h y d r o p o n i c s g r o w. o r g / hydroponics-cheap/

The plant tube can also be diameter PVC piping. It has large enough so you can cut in the tubing to place the holders.

large to be holes plant

http://www.urbanfarmgarden.com/ 2010_11_01_archive.html

The nutrient pump is simply a small water pump similar to those used in backyard water features; it is a very small pump. An air stone can be used to aerate the water to ensure there is plenty of dissolved oxygen in the water. You can find air stones in any pet store that sells aquariums or you can use just a small water pump to keep the water agitated.

Water bubbles form when water is aerated and those bubbles rise to the surface and collect dissolved oxygen from the air and then deposit that oxygen in the water.

The pump pushes the water up to the grow tray and then allows it to drain back into the container. If you just use a lid with the plants suspended then the pump would be placed in a separate bucket/ container to push water into the container and then have an overflow that allows water to drain back into the bucket to circulate once again through the container.

http://our.windowfarms.org/tag/ hydroponic/

As you can see, you are only limited by your imagination when it comes to hydroponics. All you have to ensure is that there is a system for supporting the plants, as well as a steady flow of water across the roots.

To get started you can purchase seedling cups at any home and garden store or use plastic cups you have around the home. The cups must have ample holes in and around the bottom and at least half way up the sides to allow the roots to grow through to reach the water.

From left top across, expandable clay, coconut fiber, left from bottom is perlite and vermiculite

http://www.hydroponic-growingsystems.com/homemade-aeroponicssystem.html

The depicted plant holder is one designed for aquatic plants but is ideal for a hydroponics system. It is not recommended that you use Styrofoam for seedlings or seeds; you can use foam after the plant has developed a substantial root system, to hold the plant in place.

Place a hole in the middle of the foam section and then make a slit from the hole to the edge so you can open the foam piece up and slide a plant into the foam‘s center.

The foam will support the plant as it grows.Â

Fill the plant holder with the growing medium and place a seed or seedling in the medium and water immediately. Until the plant's roots can reach the water, the medium must be kept damp.

The above growing mediums retain moisture well, and are available in any home and garden store.

Some people have had luck using fine pea gravel or small river gravel as a growing medium. Sand and other fine materials would slip through the holes in the plant containers. This is not to say that sand cannot be a growing medium but you would have to ensure the sand is somehow contained in the plant container.

Cantaloupe (muskmelon in some parts of the world) and watermelon in some areas of the country and world are routinely grown in fine gravel.

Lighting and Location

http://hydroball.co.za/ what_is_hydroball.php

Fill the plant holder with expandable clay, perlite, and vermiculite or coconut fiber. Perlite and vermiculite are typically mixed together and used as a growing medium.

http://www.hydroworld.co.za/ hydroponic-mediums.htm

 It is recommended that you build your hydroponics system outside if possible. This allows tomato plants to be properly hardened off and allows all of your plants to absorb natural sunlight. However, you may very well want to make your own easy hydroponics system because you cannot grow outside or simply want to grow year around. You can, of course, build your system anywhere such as a basement, garage, sunroom or even a spare bedroom.

If growing indoors, you will need ample light either by fluorescent, or by using grow lights.

Fluorescent lights are typically used to supplement natural light, so if using these lights, the room in which your plants are located should receive some natural lighting through windows or skylights.

If you do not have any means of providing natural light then it is recommended that you use lights that specifically state they are plant-growing lights. These lights provide double the lighting of typical bulbs and mimic natural lighting. No special fixtures are needed(;) the bulbs can be placed and used in most fixtures you would have in your home. There are fluorescent bulbs designed as grow lights than can be used with your current fluorescent fixtures as well.

http:// www.hydroponicsequipment.co/tag/ indoor-gardening/

As the plants develop, you should have a system in place that allows you to raise the lighting. Always center the fixture over the plants and if you have a large number of plants, you may very well need more than one fixture. There is little overflow of lighting and most light from the bulbs is directed directly down so any plants that are in the so-called spill over lighting zone will not benefit much from the light.

Pollination Tomatoes and any species of beans are considered self-pollinators; in other words they do not need bees, insects or humans to pollinate so they can develop a "fruit".

Cucumbers, squashes and most other vine plants do need insects, bees or humans to pollinate.

Growing indoors sometimes means you will have to pollinate

the plants yourself as they develop blossoms.

Collect pollen from the male cucumber blossom and pollinate the female blossom using a small soft bristled paintbrush.

This method will work on any plant that produces both the male and female blossom. Simply identify each blossom and apply the described technique. You can also remove the male blossom if there appears to be an abundance of them and fold back the petals to reveal the anthers and then rub the male flower against the female flower. Male blossoms bloom and quickly fall off so it is important

that you monitor closely so you can gather up the male blossoms or gather the pollen using a brush.

O n c e pollinated the fruit behind the f e m a l e blossom will begin to develop otherwise it will simply wilt away.

To see a list of plants that require bees, insects or help from humans to pollinate please visit https://

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ List_of_crop_plants_pollinated_by_be es

THE VORTEX BREWER

™ Grow the Best Garden,

Crops, Plants, Trees or Turf of Your Life!

“I have been into brewing compost teas for a long time...

Your Vortex Brewer is superior to all competitors.” - Aaron B., Eureka, CA Use as a mixing machine for fertilizer solutions, creating compost tea, as a batch extractor, or to create energized water.

You can’t buy a living solution from a shelf, compost tea is alive and unique to your garden!

Use in soil or hydroponics. A concentrated form of Nature!

Energize YOUR garden to an entirely new level!

"The Vortex Brewer is absolutely revolutionary.

I would put it up against any other kind of brewer on the market. Nothing else stands up next to it, hands down." - Sammy A., CO

For instant details and our FREE Report:

"Compost Tea—Miracle Fertilizer?"

PLUS a chance to win a FREE Vortex Brewer™ visit: www.VortexBrewer.info/my17 Or call 800-970-2864

Compost Tea in a Box: 20, 40, 80 & 400 gallon bundles. Living Solutions, Amazing Results!

Vor Win tex a Br FRE ew E er™ !!!

Poncho Versatility

By Ken Youngquist

A poncho is a very versatile piece of equipment. The primary purpose of a poncho is to protect the wearer from getting wet by exposure to rain, snow or other airborne wet conditions. However, a poncho can perform other functions as well. Let's explore a few examples.

Because of its water proof/resistant nature it can be used to gather water as well. Rain and moisture can be collected and funneled into a container for later consumption or personal hygiene. It can be used for insulation like a blanket for warmth or used as a wind-breaker.

It can also be configured in a number of ways to be used as a shelter. Generally it is suspended via cords, sticks or rods for this purpose. It can provide shade when suspended overhead. Many ponchos have integrated snaps, buttons, or ties, enabling them to be joined to another poncho to form a tent. Some ultra-light hikers have used conventional fiberglass connecting rods to form an "X frame" to form a shallow dome under which they can sleep.

Besides the physical aspects of shelter, the poncho can also be used to hide or reveal the wearer based on its color, whether it's camo patterned or blaze orange. It can be used as a hunting blind or waved about to signal rescuers.

If you haven't acquired a poncho yet, I highly recommend getting one for your B.O.B., camping gear, or emergency vehicle kit. Besides providing comfort in inclement weather, it could actually save your life.

Book Review: The Survival Medicine Handbook, Second Edition Authors, Joseph Alton, M.D., Amy Alton, A.R.N.P.

By Vickilynn Haycraft Joseph Alton, M.D. and Amy Alton, A.R.N.P known as “Dr. Bones and Nurse Amy,” have a shared vision. That vision is to educate and equip everyday people, like you and me, to step up to handle medical situations in their families or groups, when medical help is not on the way.

pages packed with information and pictures. This is THE guide for those interested in preparing for situations where no medical help is available.

Conclusion: Highly recommended. I consider this a “must-have” for every family library.

Read the full review here: Review: The Survival Medicine Handbook, Second Edition That’s right, when medical help is not available and no medical help is expected to be available, we, every day people, must do what we can with what we have. That’s where this book “The Survival Medicine Handbook, Second Edition” helps to equip its readers to prepare for health situations where there is no one else to turn to.

Legal Statement:

The emphasis is on prevention of disease, injury and serious medical issues and there is excellent information (in easy-to-understand layman’s terms) familiarizing the readers with anatomy, physiology, likely medical situations you may face in an emergency, how to put together supplies and resources, integrative medicine, natural medicine (herbal, essential oils, nutritional) and much, much more in the 580+ Although PREPARE Magazine works hard to present you with advertisements for quality products and services, PREPARE Magazine cannot spend the time to do the due diligence it takes to ensure that only reliable services and products are advertised with us.

Therefore, you should understand that PREPARE Magazine does not represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any of the advertisements in our magazine or the quality of any products, information or other materials displayed, purchased, or obtained by you as a result of an offer in connection with any advertisement.

PREPARE Magazine encourages you to do your own due diligence before purchasing any product, whether it is offered here or anywhere else for that matter, before purchasing.

Please use your own judgment and carefully check out those products that interest you. Under no Circumstances shall PREPARE Magazine, or Mainline Marketing Group, LLC., be liable for any damages, whatsoever, and in particular, shall not be liable for direct, indirect, consequential, incidental, or punitive damages, or damages of lost profits, loss of revenue, or loss of use, arising out of related to any portion of this Magazine or the content, information, or advertisements contained in it, whether such damages arise in contract, negligence, tort, under statute, in equity, at law or otherwise.

The Lure of Being Lulled

By Lynn Drury Many of us have an idea that we need to be prepared in order to survive. I wouldn’t be writing this article and you wouldn’t be reading it if that were not at least fundamentally true at some core belief. However, there are forces both inside and outside of ourselves that compete for our attention or our thought and often distract us from this core belief. Once distracted and heading off down a side trail we often find a snare like the characters in the Wizard of Oz did in the poppy fields. The pretty red flowers appeared so harmless as a justifiable short-cut to the Emerald City, but in fact, they were simply a lure for their victims to be lulled into a deep, dark sleep.

One would think that we might be immune to being lulled to sleep or following like sheep. But the fact is - it happens, to the seasoned and to the novice alike. Can you feel complacency all around you or, perhaps better said, within you from time to time?

Perhaps it’s been designed by the ‘powers that be’ to send out messages through the mass media that show we are on the positive side of an upswing in our economy or that your local area has new businesses being built and thus hiring more folks. Perhaps we are so focused on a court trial that has taken over the mainstream news that we easily by-pass some of the more obscure news that is even more relevant to our plans to prepare for societal change. Wow, this is big news, it must be important right?

Isn’t it good the housing market and unemployment rate are improving in our area?

Perhaps because you may feel you’re ‘going it alone’ and no one understands why you’re preparing, it seems

easier to hide your prepping. This means there is little to no accountability or networking. Not only is it difficult to feel like an outcast or stay the course when choosing to live the lone wolf lifestyle, it is not designed as long term plan. A lonely place is often a hard place to stay. Why is it that no-one seems to understands? It’s not like I can prove this life choice to any of my friends, can I?

Perhaps we are simply tired. We may be tired of things being more difficult now just because we think they are going to become that way in the future. Perhaps we’re tired of trying to show others that there is a pending change on the horizon when they are blinded to seeing it themselves. Why not enjoy obliviousness like everyone else? Things aren’t going to be really bad, are they?

There is not a single one of the questions asked at the end of each paragraph that is wrong to have had cross our minds. But if they are questions that tend to lead you toward being lulled in to complacency, then they may not be the right questions to be asking. Mankind will always find an answer to the questions we ask ourselves, even if we have to make one up. Better than asking the question, when the questions arise, look and see what is causing you to ask questions such as these. Let questions not be asked simply so that you can give them easy and attractive answers, but rather use the question as a reason to dig deeper and identify the factor that is causing you to ask the question in the first place.

Are you being lured into being lulled to sleep?

By Jason Hunt

Hammocks!

When it comes to light weight camping gear and taking care of your back, the hammock has to be at the top of the list. Hammocks have been used for centuries by island tribes for good reason; they’re easily portable, set up in minutes and they’re just darn comfortable. But which style, or brand for that matter, do you choose with so many available today? Well, for me personally, I have my favorite which I’ll share with you later. First, we must examine the weather conditions and capabilities available in most hammock systems.

The standard outdoor hammock is typically made from a mid-weight rip stop nylon material that is usually weight tested at 300lbs. This means, over the life of the hammock, someone weighing no more than 300lbs would have no problem using it. They are typically open, which means they have no bug-net and require some sort of overhead cover, such as a trail tarp. To hang, most hammocks come with some sort of rope with carabineers while nicer models come with heavy nylon webbing.

Double sized hammocks are thought to be wide enough for two people, and while this is true to a point, they are still not really designed for two people. Most

of these hold a rough weight of 400lbs and again, they’re just a larger version of the open standard hammock. When thinking of outdoor use, a double wide hammock allows the user greater movement while sleeping and the ability to stow away some of their equipment, which can be a great blessing should the rains come.

Covered hammocks have a bug net typically integrated into the hammock itself that opens and closes by zipper. These models are great when the bugs are thick, but they also do not allow for great air movement within the hammock, which means they hold heat more, thereby making cooling down a longer process.

You may be hot and sweaty longer, but you will be bug free!

Now, many only like to use hammocks in the summer months because convection (the air moving around you while you’re in the hammock) sucks heat away from you faster. This is good in the summer, as it’s typically hot and humid, but in the winter, this leads one to being colder and restless. That’s where the need for under-quilts comes into play. There are many hammock dealers that offer expensive modifications to down filled blankets that allow them to hang under the hammock, thereby reducing the affects of convection.

Other hammocks have a pocket built into them so that an isolation layer can be inserted instead of hanging under the hammock. I have tried both methods and prefer those with the pockets built in. In the winter time, you have several options available for making your hammock nights restful. For one, you can simply lower the hammock so it’s closer to the ground, then pile leaves under and around you. Another technique would be to create a super shelter by draping a piece of plastic over your hammock from a ridgeline, and stoking a body length fire up one step beyond the plastic and hammock so that the radiant heat comes through the plastic surrounding your hammock, much like a greenhouse effect. So winter camping is just as enjoyable in a hammock as is summer camping.

Now, the weight issue! Most hammocks weight less than 2lbs and require no poles. This saves space in your pack and reduces the strain on your back! Add to that, the need for an overhead tarp and, if you choose wisely, you’ll only add another 1-2lbs. Plus, these items give you more versatility over the standard tent.

Now, we come to my current and preferred hammock.

On average, I spend around 100 nights a year sleeping in the woods. I have had back problems and joint problems and ground sleeping nearly cripples me for days on afterward. So, the need for me to be comfortable is a must, especially when I’m leading classes or on an adventure. I’ve tried most of the major brands, and they’re all about the same. So, I reached out to a small company and worked with them to design a true basis for a 4 season hammock sleep system. What we came up with was an extra wide, longer hammock that holds over 500lbs with a full length insulation pocket, which serves as a dual layer on the bottom and it weighs less than 16oz. It’s called the Appalachian Hammock Custom DL.

The AH Custom DL has been my go-to hammock since we made it because it not only allows me to use it all summer, but all winter. I’ve slept in it with nothing more than a sleeping pad, 20 degree summer sleeping bag and a cheap wool blanket when the temps dropped into the single digits and I was plenty warm and comfy. Additionally, the hammock is large enough for me to stow extra gear in the sleeping area with me, flop around into different sleeping positions and (what’s important to me) wrap the hammock around me almost like a cocoon. While the Custom DL is an open hammock, you can add a bug net easily by just draping on over a ridgeline. This method allows for better air movement as well and gives you more work

room, so you’re not confined into a small space as with attached bug net hammocks. Finally, since the insulation pocket is full length and width, it allows more things to be stuffed inside it. So if you had to improvise and under-quilt by making a grass mat, stuff in a folded comforter or fill it full of leaves; you have those options. You can also sleep inside the pocket when the wind or rain is too much to bear should you have selected the wrong overhead tarp!

Appalachian Hammock also offers a trail tarp, which I also use exclusively. It’s called the Big-Sil Ultralight Tarp. It’s made of a siliconized rip stop nylon and weights about 20oz. It is cat cut, which means it’s six sided, making it 12ft x 10ft at the longest points and provides more coverage than the standard 8x8 trail tarp. I have used this tarp in torrential downpours that lasted days at a time and never once has it failed to keep me dry.

To maximize durability, the tarp employs triplestitched waterproof reinforcement material at all tieout points and a double-stitched edge-binding

material around the entire tarp perimeter. This makes for a complete sleep system in my opinion, not counting of course your blanket or sleeping bag… And the best part is you have a total weight of about 35oz for these two items (not including carabineers or straps) which is about the weight of a bottle of water!

So, if you find yourself struggling to get a good night’s rest while you’re outdoors, think of investing in an Appalachian Hammock; you’ll be glad you did!

You can find the Appalachian Hammock products in our College Bookstore at www.frontierchristianuniversity.org

PASTORS PERSPECTIVE

The Greatest Preparation

By Jeff Rowland

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:1-3

This text has been used and can be quoted by nearly every believer and we find great comfort in it but I sometimes wonder if we have relegated this text to a text that only belongs to our future instead of appropriating its meaning into our present.

This text is all about preparation. First, the cure of a troubled heart is found in faith in God. Many in this day battle a troubled heart. In these unstable times it’s easy to give way to a troubled heart. We see the problems with the governments of the world crumbling, our financial systems in more trouble than we can pay our way out of, our educational systems no longer holding to the values of competitive lead, and many of the signs of the last days being unfolded before our eyes each night on national news. Fear can most assuredly take hold of our heart and lead us into a radical mindset of our own strength to make our way clear and straight. This text teaches us that the first step in our preparation is to believe in God. Believe in His strength, power, authority, and deliverance for our own life. If we trust the power of God and realize His power the fears and worries we most often face will be gone, understanding that God is in control and will take care of us according to His great will for us.

Second, our future is in the hand and care of our Lord.

He said, in my Father’s house are many mansions.

There is a place prepared for us after this life is over that the Father has in store for us. I’ve preached for years that the way you deal with your past is to appropriate your future into your present and that will

destroy your past. For the Child of God this is our hope and our rejoicing. To the one who is outside of faith in Christ they cannot and do not have the hope of a glorious future, but to walk into faith in Christ gives us the hope of the future that the Father has prepared for us. He also said, “if I go, I will come again.” This is a glorious promise for those who have trusted Him. He is coming again to take us to where He is. There is nothing that can hinder your joy if this truth is established in your heart.

Third, our present has been prepared by the Lord as much as our future has. Often we miss this truth that is in the text. Remember, He said in my Father’s house are many mansions. He isn’t preparing a home in heaven. Our home in heaven was already there when He spoke this to the disciples. So then what is he preparing? He went to the Fathers right hand to make intercession for us. His first order of business after He presented His blood as the sacrifice for sin was to pray to the Father for the giving of the Holy Spirit. The rest of this chapter teaches us that the preparation of the Lord for us is in the person of the Holy Spirit. The greatest preparation known to the world was the preparation of the Lord Jesus for and to us. Everything that God has ever done or will do has been a move of preparation. Therefore, we can conclude that God prepares for a prepared people. God prepares to make us a prepared people. God and God alone can make the preparation needed for you to be victorious in these last days.

THANK YOU! The Launch of PREPARE Magazine has been a labor of love, sharing of helpful training and ideas, and a partnership with some wonderful people. We are so thankful for the support and kindness of so many people who have joined with us in the journey and contributed to the creation and growth of PREPARE Magazine. We want to share our sincere and humble gratitude for everyone who has shared their support and encouragement. We simply could not have launched PREPARE without you!

On behalf of our readers, subscribers, advertisers, and staff, we wish to extend our heart-felt appreciation to all of you. We believe there is a very special mission for PREPARE Magazine, and are so pleased to be yoked with wonderful people who wish to sow encouragement and help to others in the Preparedness Journey.

Again‌ To all of you who have contributed and shared financial resources, preparedness training, advertising, testimonials, and encouragement, please know that we greatly appreciate you – and look forward to serving on your behalf.

Joseph and Donna Miller

Special Partners Dr. Bones and Nurse Amy Ronald G Wittig H Michael Rauscher Kirk Illian Joe and Amy Alton Tracy Singer Steve Mileusnich Karyn Rios Jonathan Violassi Donna Henken Rats Overton Shannon Dulawan Douglas Drury Kelly and Stanley Gaddy CoolBrees Designs

Special Contributors Raymond Freeman Heather Balentine Frank Gregg Joy walker Leslie Moore Peter Sedlak III Mark Firehammer S. Ryerson John Fairchild Bryan Van Hook Kathleen Roberts Bobbie Nelson Bill Liebsch Gail LaCroix Vaunell Temple Velda Solomon Jared Novotny Seth Johnson Vickilynn Haycraft Benjamin Geleynse Steven Jones Brandon Rains Rebecca Sanchez Teri Roberts Jeff Rowland Dr. Kaly Sellers

Jim Kennard Trent Powers Ken Youngquist Jason A. Hunt Vickilynn Haycraft Rick Austin Evan Folds Bryan Miller Bill & Janet Liebsch Pierce Jacobson Vina8 Eric Waters Charles Belitz Lynette Frye Kelly Thomas Nigel Jones Dale W.Montgomery Kim Lippy Steve Mistretta Aaron Berwick Valarie Brown Scott Angell Caryn lee Wayne Spencer N. Campbell Judith Hooley Founding Subscribers

Our Contributors...

Craig L. Johnson aka thenaturenurd, lives in Texas with his Wife, teenage son, 4 cats and 4 dogs. Craig is an Eagle Scout, a certified Texas Peace Officer, a certified Texas EMT, and certified Wildland Firefighter. He attributes his knowledge of the outdoors, survival, prepping, and self reliance to many years in the Boy Scouts and working for both Arkansas State Parks and Texas Parks and Wildlife as a park ranger. Craig enjoys teaching others, especially about firearms, plants and gardening, survival skills, among many others. He strives to learn something new everyday and hone his existing skills. He looks forward to many more articles in Prepare Magazine! Visit: http://thasurvivalnurd.wordpress.com

!

Vickilynn Haycraft is the hostess of the Get Real – Get Prepared radio show on PRN. She is the author of: Wrapping It Up! and co-author of Naturally Healthy Cuisine, Real Food for Real Families. Vickilynn is a sought-after independent product tester and book reviewer delivering accurate, honest, and trustworthy reviews on products and books for the whole family.

Subscribe to Vickilynn at: RealFoodLiving.com, National Product Review Examiner, National Family Preparedness Examiner.

Ken Youngquist is the creator of Survivaltek, a website dedicated to teaching the ways !

and means to survive. From his youth, Ken was captivated by primitive living skills, and in his adulthood was intrigued by the television Series MacGyver. The result has been the study and practice of survival skills and the desire to pass on the mantle of preparedness to others. You can visit and learn more at: Survivaltek.com.

Rod Robison is a broadcaster and entertainer, father of five, husband of one, living in

!

The Middle of Nowhere, Arizona. His prepper philosophy is, If the poop hits the fan I plan to be prepared. If it doesn't, my family and I will still be better off having prepared. His entertainment website is at www.mentallusions.com Rod Robison is a professional fundraiser and broadcaster whose radio feature “Radical Stewardship” is heard on over 200 stations nationwide.

Pierce Jacobson is a family man who enjoys homesteading, writing, and researching food growing models. He has been studying self-reliance and preparedness systems for many years, and believes that we are heading toward difficulties that will require us to be lessdependent on the existing infrastructures. He practices and teaches his own survival skills and growing models, to help better-prepare for the days ahead.

Trent Powers

is a freelance writer, consultant, and adventure enthusiast. He spends much of his time researching and testing survival skills and self-reliance techniques. As an avid outdoorsman and homesteader, Trent believes that putting skills into practice now will provide for a more peaceful future.

Jason A. Hunt is the President of Frontier Christian University a school that equips believers for wilderness, survival and preparedness ministries for the end-times. He is also the Chief Instructor at Kentucky River Bushcraft where he offers courses in a variety of outdoor subjects. To learn more visit him online at www.kyriverbushcraft.com

Reverend Jeff Rowland is an Evangelist, Preacher, Author and Accomplished Songwriter. Jeff travels extensively across the United States preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Jeff is from Chillhowie, Virginia, and comes from a preaching and singing family. He sang with his family until joining th eUS Army as a member of the 82nd Airborne. While in the military, Jeff surrendered into the ministry and was ordained in 1985.

Visit: http://www.jeffrowlandministry.com

Dr. Kal Sellers DC, MH has literally been studying all forms of preparedness (with an emphasis on natural healing and herbal medicine) since he was a child. He practices and teaches natural healing and advises and consults for preparedness strategies around the world. He is faithful to his God and rejoices in his large family who he teaches to be as self-sufficient as possible. http://www.enlightenedrevolution.com/

Bill & Janet Liebsch  are the founders of FedHealth, a publishing and marketing company formed in 1999 to help the public focus on preparedness and health-related issues. They also are the authors and publishers of "IT'S A DISASTER! ...and what are YOU gonna do about it?" and are dedicated to developing programs that primarily benefit First Responders, schools and volunteers. Get a sample of the content with this free mini-ebook HERE

Lynn Drury is an author, teacher, and avid organic herb gardener.

She is a stay-at-home mother of three. She teaches weekly classes on preparedness and self-reliance training. Donna works with local Preparedness groups in teaching the importance of improving skills for families to get better prepared.

We are are looking We looking for for contributors contributors Your voice may be the one to help someone else

submit your contributions at

www.preparemag.com We are currently seeking contributions for the following...

Community Connections General Articles Feature Articles Instructional Articles Photos and Videos Testimonies Preparedness Experiences

Kitchen Gadgets, Lessons, Recipes, Grains and More

MILLERS Grain House

"Preparing you and your kitchen with tools, tips, skills and encouragement."

E! CLICK HER

Learn Preparation Skills

!

E CLICK HER

WonderMill

E!

CLICK HER

Preparation Food Storage

CLICK HER

E!

WonderMill Jr. Deluxe

E!

CLICK HER

Excalibur Dehydrator

FREE WHOLE GRAIN RECIPES

•

RADIO SHOW

•

PREPARATION BLOG (800) 824-4655 (828) 536-4988 www.millersgrainhouse.com/store

Mondays-Thursdays 9:00 to 5:00 Eastern Fridays 9:00 to 4:00 Eastern Closed Saturdays & Sundays