empower magazine
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EMPower is EMPact America's bi-monthly publication.TRANSCRIPT
Happy Holidays!
Preparing for Your Future
Cuomo: Time to Revamp NYC Emergency Preparedness
Winter Pet Safety 101
Holiday Safety Tips for the Home
‘Twas The Night Before a Snowstorm...
EMP Preparations for the Average Family Electric Power Blackout: The Power of One
COVER
- 2 - JAN.FEB.2013 2013
EMPACT America, Inc. is a bipartisan, non-profit (with IRS 501(c)4 status) organization for citizens concerned about protecting the American people from a nuclear or natural electromagnetic pulse (EMP) catastrophe.
EMPACT America has the following missions:
• Re-establish the EMP Commission to advise Congress and the Departments and Agencies of
the U.S. government;
• Implement the EMP Commission recommendations to protect civilian critical infrastructures
on an accelerated basis;
• Educate the American people on the EMP threat and solutions;
• Organize the American people to act effectively in furtherance of their security from the EMP
threat at the federal, state, local, and individual levels; and
• Initiate pilot programs in Western New York State to increase EMP preparedness among first
responders, communities, utilities, businesses, and universities, to serve as examples for the
nation, and to show that leadership on national and homeland security need not originate in
Washington, that the American people can lead “from the bottom up.”
ABOUT THIS PUBLICATION:
JAN.FEB.2013 - 3 -
ON THE COVER:Curt Weinhold is an avid outdoor enthusiast who can capture nature at its
best. He started by studying photography courtesy of a Veterans Affairs
program at age 27 and since then has spent much free time looking through a
camera viewfinder.
He is a juried artisan connected with the Pa Wilds program and has Artisan Trail
gallery displays in Wellsboro and Emporium. Senior portraits and weddings
round out his year.
Picture credits include Outside magazine, Pa Magazine, National Geographic
Adventure, Washington Post, NY Times, and many local publications. Books of
North Central Pa. and his self-published Pennsylvania Grand Canyon is now in
its 4th printing.
AMERICA IN THE DARK: 2-DISK SET
EMPact America’s America in the Dark
2 disc set will be available for order online
through preparehub.org this month.
- 4 - JAN.FEB.2013 2013
IN THIS ISSUE:
UPDATING VOIP & 911 INFO p.6
FINANCIAL PREPAREDNESS p.10 DESTRESS AT YOUR DESK p.12
FIREARMS SAFETY CLASS p.9SNOW SHOVELING SAFETY p.8
EMPACT AMERICA’S EMPOWER MAGAZINE
is published by
EMPact America, Inc.
Contributors:
David Bellavia
Kathryn DeLong
Ross Howarth
Cristina Maxon
Michelle McCulloch
Amy Thompson
EMPact America, IncDavid Bellavia, President
Ross Howarth, Vice President
EMPact America
PO Box 124
Elma, New York 14059
www.EMPactAmerica.org
(716) 435-7873
JAN.FEB.2013 - 5 -
PALEOLITHIC DIET p.20 CONGRESS: UNPREPARED p.22 CDC FLU WARNING p.24
SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST p.14 WHAT DO YOU THINK, p.16 NATURAL PREPAREDNESS p.18
To submit story ideas,
event information, or
corrections, send an email to
- 6 - JAN.FEB.2013 2013
The ability to access
emergency services
by dialing 911 is a vital
component of public
safety and emergency preparedness.
It is imperative that consumers of
telephone service be able to reach
emergency services regardless of the technology used to place a 911 call.
E911 systems automatically provide to emergency service personnel a 911
caller’s call back number and, in most cases, location information.
VoIP (voice over internet phone) service allows you to make and receive calls
to and from traditional phone numbers using an internet connection. It can
be used in place of traditional phone service. While you may choose to use
VoIP service from a single location, like a residence, some VoIP services can
be used wherever you travel, as long as a broadband Internet connection
is available. The some of the most commonly used VoIP providers are Cox,
Time Warner, Vonage and Magic Jack.
Traditional phone services
usually have associated a
particular phone number
with a fixed address.
Portable VoIP service enables consumers to
take their home or business phone service
almost anywhere. This portability raises a
number of challenges for the emergency services community. There are
differences between VoIP E911 and traditional E911 service, so there are
things that consumers need to know.
When you call 911 from a traditional telephone, the call in most cases is sent
to a Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) that is responsible for a particular
geographic area or community. PSAP personnel often can automatically
identify your location and direct the closest emergency personnel to that
location. They also often can automatically identify your telephone number
so that they can call you back if you are disconnected.
PREPARE BY UPDATING VoIP& 911 INFORMATION
HOW VoIP WORKSPC
TELEPHONE
VOIP PHONE VOIP PHONE
INTERNET
PC
VOIP ADAPTER CABLE MODEM
ARTICLE BY AMY THOMPSON
JAN.FEB.2013 - 7 -
Since VoIP service works differently from traditional phone service, consumers who use it should be aware that VoIP 911 service may also work differently from traditional 911 service.
VoIP service providers, in response to FCC action, are making progress in
eliminating these differences, but some of the possible differences include:
• VoIP 911 calls may not connect to the PSAP, or may improperly ring to the
administrative line of the PSAP, which may not be staffed after hours, or by
trained 911 operators;
• VoIP 911 calls may not connect to the correct PSAP and may be routed to a
VoIP provider’s 911 call center. The call should then be directed to the correct
PSAP by the provider’s call center, but it may delay response time.
• VoIP 911 calls may correctly connect to the PSAP, but not automatically
transmit the user’s phone number and/or location information;
• VoIP 911 calls may not connect to the correct PSAP if the address/location
information is not accurate. Customers should take care to provide jurisdiction
(city, town, village, etc.) information rather than your mailing address, if they
differ, to their VoIP providers. Customers need to update this information if
they change locations, for their VoIP 911 service to function properly;
• VoIP service may not work during a power outage, or when the Internet
connection fails or becomes overloaded.
Tips for Subscribers to VoIP Service
If you have or are thinking of subscribing to a VoIP service, you should:
• Provide your accurate physical address to your VoIP service provider to
ensure that emergency services can quickly be dispatched to your location.
It is important to be aware that mailing addresses do not always correctly
correspond to emergency services jurisdictions. The VoIP provider should be
given the correct jurisdiction (city, town, village, etc.) information rather than
your mailing address, if they differ.
• Be familiar with your VoIP service provider’s procedures for updating your
address, and promptly update address information in the event of a change.
• If your power is out or your Internet connection is down, be aware that
your VoIP service may not work. Consider installing a backup power supply,
maintaining a traditional phone line or having a wireless phone as a backup.
• If you have questions about whether the phone service you are receiving is a
VoIP service, contact your service provider for further information.
• If you have questions about how your VoIP E911 service works, contact your
service provider and ask for an explanation of the 911 routing provided by their
company.
- 8 - JAN.FEB.2013 2013
Winter weather has finally reached us
here in the Western New York. A number
of accidents arise from trying to clear
snow and ice from roads, walkways and
cars. Back strain, muscle soreness and sometimes heart
attacks have been attributed to shoveling snow.
Below are a few tips on how you can keep yourself safe and
healthy while you clear off your sidewalk or driveway.
Warm up your muscles before going out to shovel. Stretch all
of your muscles.
Dress in layers and wear appraopriate gear
(ie. Hats, scarf, gloves, snow pants).
Avoid caffeinated products as they can raise your heart rate, cause your blood vessels to constrict, and stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water. If you are looking to drink something warm
drink hot chocolate or herbal teas instead of coffee.
Use proper form when shoveling. Try to lift with your legs, not your back and separate your hands on the shovel to increase leverage. A shovel with wet snow can weigh up to 15 lbs so try to use a smaller shovel and pace yourself.
Rest as often as you needed during shoveling. If you are clearing a large driveway or side walk break it into sections.
We hope these tips keep you healthy and safe.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY AMY THOMPSON
JAN.FEB.2013 - 9 -
EMPact America Promotes Gun Education and Safety
Article by Kathryn DelongRecent national tragedies have prompted a very political discussion on gun control. New York became the first state to enact gun control measures in response to the Newton, Connecticut shooting with the passage of the NY SAFE Act, which includes provisions to expand the state’s existing assault weapons ban, outlaw the internet sale of assault weapons, require background checks prior to ammunition sales, increase sentences for gun-related crimes, and mandate a police registry of assault weapons.Shortly after the passage of the NY SAFE Act, President Barack Obama signed a series of 23 executive orders intended to curb gun violence.
Our hearts ache for the victims of these heartless crimes, but there’s little we can do to end this type of irrational, abhorrent violence. It’s important to remember that politicians cannot legislate morality; they cannot outlaw psychosis and evil.Education, not gun control, is the best approach to curbing gun violence. Having the right to self-defense is one thing; knowing how to effectively, and safely, exercise that right is another.EMPact America held two firearms safety and New York State pistol permit courses in January. Over 300 Western New Yorkers participated in the two, four-hour training sessions. Instructor Miguel Rivera, Jr., Co-owner and Vice President of B.C.J.S. Investigations, generously donated his time and vast knowledge on firearms safety. Rivera covered topics including basic rifle, shotgun, and handgun safety; range safety; home safety; what to do and what not to do during a home invasion; firearm familiarity; operating and caring for your firearms; and nomenclature.
EMPact America is not a firearms-related organization, but we are committed to emergency preparedness and prevention. Responsible gun owners can help prevent disaster situations and contribute to a safer community.
- 10 - JAN.FEB.2013 2013
A NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION THAT PAYS
With every new year comes new resolutions. In
the preparedness community, we tend to focus on
things like what to do in a fire,
staying safe during a hurricane,
and how to protect your vehicle
from the snow. But an important
aspect of preparedness that
people often forget relates to our finances. Are you financially prepared? Do
you have debt? Would you be able to support yourself and your dependents
if disaster struck? Do you have a budget?
This is a topic near and dear to my heart, as I decided that my New Year’s
resolution is to find a budget and stick to it. Learning to budget isn’t normally
taught in schools, but it is an extremely valuable skill. Financial preparedness
depends upon the ability to budget.
My idea of financial preparedness, as an unmarried, childless, twenty-
something is different than that of a forty-year-old preparing to send her
kids off to college. But there are certain rules that everyone should try to
abide by when it comes to personal finances.
First and foremost, don’t spend more than you have coming in. This will
lead to debt – a particularly stressful burden that nobody desires. Keep your
credit card payments under control. There may be an emergency when you
need that credit.
Debt means that you are not beholden to your money; instead, your money
is beholden to a creditor.
Second, as mentioned earlier, figure out
a budget plan that fits your lifestyle and
don’t stray from it. At
this point, you may
be thinking, “how do
I figure out a budget
that’s right for me?”
Tracking all of your expenses for a month is a good place to start. Categorize
your expenses: food, rent/mortgage, utilities, shopping, entertainment, fast
food, restaurants, gas, credit card payments, et cetera. Weed out everything
that’s not a necessity, and go from there. Designate fixed amounts to each of
your categories – $200 per month on restaurants, for example.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Fortunately, it’s 2013 and there are services
available to do all of the tracking and categorizing for you. I prefer mint.com,
which is an online application that connects to your bank account to track
what you spend and how you’re spending it. It is a very useful tool, especially
for people who are unsure of where to start. Once your monthly expenses are
laid out in front of you, it’s much easier to create a budget for yourself. Simply
put, work backwards. Figure out where your money is going first before you
make a plan.
Third, whatever amount you decide to allocate towards your savings or
emergency fund should be put away at the beginning of the month; don’t
wait until the end of the month when your checking account is running dry.
Furthermore, only use your savings when you absolutely have to.
Mint.com is a great website for creating a monthly budget that fits your lifestyle.
ARTICLE BY KATHRYN DELONG
JAN.FEB.2013 - 11 -
Finally, don’t be afraid to seek help if you’re in a rut and unsure of what steps to take
to get yourself out. Brushing off your financial woes will only make things worse.
Now more than ever, financial preparedness should be
a household priority. The recent legislation passed in
order to “avert the fiscal cliff” is yet another burden on
American taxpayers. Our government’s insistence that
raising taxes is the solution to its spending problem won’t
be going away anytime soon, it seems. By “averting the
fiscal cliff” now, our elected officials are simply kicking
the can down the road. Without real spending cuts, our
economy will continue to flounder as Congress continues
to siphon off more from our paychecks.
Inflation will persist as more money enters circulation. Our paychecks
decrease, while the cost of living increases; this isn’t an encouraging
trend. Furthermore, artificially low interest rates set by the Federal
Reserve aren’t attracting people to invest and save their money.
Even so, saving money and collecting minimal interest is better than saving none at all
.
As much as we try to
avoid them, unexpected
emergencies happen,
and it’s important to be
prepared for when they
do. Budgeting might mean
having to sacrifice now,
but you’ll be thankful in
the long-run.
Getting your finances
in order is a New Year’s
resolution that truly pays.
ARTICLE BY KATHRYN DELONG
- 12 - JAN.FEB.2013 2013
I saw a quote on a fitness
inspiration blog one day that
really stuck in my mind. Though I
am unsure of the original source,
it’s helped me for months:
“The imperfect-workout you do today is better than the lack-of-workout you did yesterday”.
Last summer, that quote inspired a “movement” (literally!) for this couch-
potato. I began walking, in regular clothes and sandals, every day. Enjoying
the sun and summer weather, I realized my walks were a time of serenity
and fitness. I began to increase the speed and distance of my afternoon
adventures. I did not stress over the fact- or mentally punish myself -for
not running, not wearing sneakers, not going to a gym, I just put on my
headphones and walked- every day. I made the experience my own. The
above quote and my new found love for walking also helped me to embrace
the mentality that ANY kind of movement is better than non-movement.
Like many Americans, I find
my day being taken up by
things like work, socializing,
laundry, errands, and other
tasks- which don’t allow a ton
of time to donate to the gym or
working out at home. I’ve always struggled with my level of physical activity,
balancing eating well with a busy life and trying to keep off weight. It is not
uncommon for us to think to ourselves “I don’t have time to get to the gym”
or “Memberships are too expensive” or even “I don’t have the energy to
work out today”.
Many people are quick to put off doing any physical exercises at all because they don’t have the time or energy to do the “perfect work-out”-
The “perfect” workout is usually thought of as time at the gym, cardio,
running, stretching, weight-lifting, fitness classes etc
ARTICLE BY CRISTINA MAXON
JAN.FEB.2013 - 13 -
I try to fit in extra effort whenever I can, like:
• going up and down the stairs a few extra times
even if I only need one thing
• parking as far from the store as possible
• using a basket instead of a shopping cart (and even
using the weight of my items in the basket to do arm
curls… when no one is looking!)
• keeping my feet off the floor in my car for as long
as I can, resting and repeating, as my regular driving
includes a 1 ½ hour car trip 3-4 times a week
• using household cleaning as physical exertion
(stretching to reach the high -up places, doing sit
ups in between dishes, etc.)
• I even do mini-crunches and leg-lift reps in the
tanning bed. I feel like I could be multi-tasking and
just lying there is a waste of precious time.
There are lots of small ways you can squeeze some
mini fitness practices into your day. But my biggest
block of time throughout my week is spent sitting
at the desk at work. It’s easy to get caught up in the
tasks of the day and forget to do simple things like
stretching, taking some deep breaths, and drinking
water. While these are always great things to do
while you’re at work, I’m not an expert. I started
wondering what I could do at work to fit in some
fitness practices there as well.
In my search for a solution to this problematic time
of day, I came across this great resource.
http://www.yogajournal.com/officeyoga/
ARTICLE BY CRISTINA MAXON
- 14 - JAN.FEB.2013 2013
WHAT IS SURVIVAL FITNESS?
In order to understand fitness for survival, “fitness” must first be defined.
A biological definition of fitness is “an organism’s ability to survive and
reproduce in a particular environment.” It has the word “survive” in its
definition! Another definition of fitness is “work capacity across broad time
and modal domain” (according to survivalcache.com) but what does that
mean? It can be explained as the ability to do work and generate power
over an undefined amount of time and across many different modalities.
Some examples include having to hike with your heavy bug-out-bag,
climbing steep hills, pulling someone else to safety, treading water for long
periods of time or even swimming to safety. The capacity to be fit and utilize
fitness in a set of conditions requires some qualities or skills that can be
practiced and developed. These skills are called “The 10 General Physical
Skills of Fitness”.
PHYSICAL FITNESS IS A TOPIC THAT USUALLY BRINGS IMAGES OF THE GYM, RUNNING SHOES, SPORTS AND DUMBBELLS, BUT WHAT ABOUT YOUR SURVIVAL?
What if your car broke down and you had to walk ten miles or more to get
help. Could you make the trip? What if you slipped and had to pull yourself
to safety using only your upper body strength, would you fall to your injury
or death, or survive? More importantly, in a dire situation, would you be
physically prepared to fight or take flight for surivial, regroup, and rise to
the occasion to continue the fight or flight for an unspecified amount of
time, in order to stay alive?
ARTICLE BY CRISTINA MAXON, PHOTO: CURT WEINHOLD
JAN.FEB.2013 - 15 -
1. Cardiovascular Fitness: capacity of the
heart and lungs to supply oxygen-rich blood to the
working muscles and the capacity of the muscles to use
oxygen to produce energy for movement
2. Stamina: the ability to sustain prolonged physical
or mental effort.
3. Strength: the quality or state of being strong :
capacity for exertion or endurance, the extent to which
muscles can exert force by contracting against resistance
(e.g. holding or restraining a force).
4. Flexibility: the absolute range of movement in a
joint or series of joints, and length in muscles that cross
the joints.
5. Power: the ability to exert maximum muscular
contraction instantly in an explosive burst of movements.
The two components of power are strength and speed.
(e.g. jumping or a sprint start).
6. Speed: the ability to move quickly across the
ground or move limbs rapidly to grab or throw.
7. Agility: the ability to quickly change body position
or direction of the body, able to move quickly and easily.
8. Coordination: the ability to integrate
the above listed components so that effective
movements are achieved.
9. Accuracy: the ability to control movement in a
given direction or at a given intensity.
10. Balance: the ability to control
the body’s position, either stationary
(e.g. a handstand) or while moving
(e.g. a gymnastics stunt)
- 16 - JAN.FEB.2013 2013
Too often, our elected officials
legislate reactively instead of
proactively. Tragic events
occur and our legislators want
to be perceived as the leader
who legislates a wrong into a future right. Who could
contest that? It seems selfless and compassionate,
strong and hard working right? The problem is they
are so hasty to submit something in response to tragedy, that they ignore
the long term effects. In their eyes, the long term effect equals re-election
security.
The first legislation fired out in response to the Newtown tragedy came from
New York State’s Governor Andrew Cuomo. Immediately, the undermining
of Constitutional freedoms was showcased in a bill that would not have
stopped this unprecedented, vicious attack. What it did was punish law
abiding firearm owners. Not one of the provisions in this bill, which was
introduced and passed in the bi-cameral legislature and signed by Governor
Cuomo within 24 hours, dealt with any of the actions that happened that
So many changes are
coming to our nation and
very few are positive. Do
you feel frustrated by the
ongoing attacks by those
who wish to stifle your freedoms and Constitutional
rights? Do you feel like our legislative leaders are
oblivious to the long term consequences of their
actions? If so, you are not alone.
The most recent and high profile debate centers around new gun control
laws set forth by our Federal government in the aftermath of the horrible
tragedy in Newtown CT. As a mom of four, I never want to personally
experience the tragic losses suffered by parents, relatives and the entire
Newtown community. Although no one can ever full understand the intense
feelings of loss and suffering that the families are enduring, we as a nation
stand with them through their mourning and pray that there is a way to stop
this unspeakable violence.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE MCCULLOCH
JAN.FEB.2013 - 17 -
fateful day in Newtown. Additionally, NY’s Governor
waived the 3 day aging period for all bills that pass
the legislature to prevent anything from stopping
the bills immediate passage.
Now I am not a current gun owner, but I do believe
that our nation is as strong and exceptional as it is
because our Constitution was written to establish
a fair governmental structure which protects
individual’s freedoms. The US Constitution stands
as a model of cooperative statesmanship and
showcases the art of compromise. It was created
to provide a lawful, secure and free nation which
governs the government and restrains its power
while protecting it’s people’s rights and freedoms. It
was not a document thrown together at a moment’s
notice, but one that evolved out of belief and
determination that our nation would be stronger
and better because of it.
We have always trusted that our Constitution would be the constant in
our American governmental system; the one thing that would guide
us through the best and worst of times. But as with all change that
divides one group from another, those that do not honor or respect the
Constitution have slowly and precisely been targeting it for extinction.
Recently, an article was written in the New York Times by Louis
Michael Seidman. Mr. Seidman is a professor of constitutional law
at Georgetown University and professes that our nation’s downfall
begins with “our insistence on obedience to the Constitution, with all
its archaic, idiosyncratic and downright evil provisions.” The article
illustrates the mindset and manner in which our Constitution will be
attacked in the coming days, weeks and years. You have to wonder,
how will his students understand and perceive the importance of
the Constitution under his tutelage. More importantly, how many
of those same students will use their futures to continue the
breaking apart of something that has kept our nation together
longer than any other Constitution around the globe.
So as we debate the Constitutionality of the emerging gun laws,
and whether they would have prevented the past atrocities, we
must remember that this is part of a bigger picture. A picture
that begs the question, how will these laws change the future
and face of our nation? Will the step by step erosion of our
freedoms lead to a safer nation, or will we become a nation
caught in its own government’s stranglehold?
- 18 - JAN.FEB.2013 2013
I know the thought of growing your own garden seems like a daunting and time consuming task, but there are many ways in which to garden. You don’t need a huge garden to get started. That can be too overwhelming for a beginner. I am a great example of that. Here are some examples of outdoor gardening styles. You can do just one type, or combine several different types of gardening. � Container gardening – Grow items in pots on
your patio or porch
� Raised Bed Gardening – Build raised garden
boxes out of 2 x 4s
� Yard Gardening –Traditional gardening but on
a much smaller scale
� Community Gardening –Neighbors and friends
work together, and have a garden together,
in a larger area. This was called the Victory
Garden or Community Garden during WWII.
One of the most important basic needs to survive is food. I know that right now food is readily available and some folks are storing MRE’s but I think that starting to grow your own food source is the best plan. What will happen when you run out of MRE’s? Everyone knows the Chinese proverb, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” The same can be said about growing your own food. Other than being able to feed yourself, there are many benefits to growing your own food.
Some of those benefits include: � You decide what, if any, fertilizers and pesticides are in your food.
� When grocery store vegetables are recalled due to EColi, or Listeria
your supply is safe.
� You control the amount of food available to you and your family.
� You control when the food is harvested.
� Fruits and vegetables that ripen in your garden have more nutrients
and better flavor than store-bought vegetables that are picked early to
ripen later at the store.
� You tend to eat more fruits and vegetables when you grow your own
� Saves money on your grocery bill. May also save on gas because you
can just go to your garden to get that onion or carrot.
� A garden can provide great learning experiences and exercises for the
entire family.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY AMY THOMPSON
JAN.FEB.2013 - 19 -
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY AMY THOMPSON
During these cold winter months, most gardeners start by going through seed catalogs. Knowing the
type of seeds that you are purchasing is important. Most seeds are hybrids and are only good for one
season and they will produce plants that are sterile. If you are looking to harvest the seeds in the fall
for the next year, buy what are called heirloom seeds. General/Hybrid seeds can be purchased at your
local gardening sections of Lowes, Home Depot or your neighborhood farm and garden store. There are
also many online companies to order from. You will have more of a variety of heirloom seeds if you use
an online store. The company that was recommended to me was Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company.
Their website is www.rareseeds.com. The experiences I have had with them so far has been pretty great.
If you don’t want to start from seeds, buy starter plants from your local gardening store. Remember,
most are not heirloom plants unless noted.
My recommendation for a new gardener is to start out small. Start with some herbs or some vegetables
that container garden well. An example of a vegetable that works well in containers is a tomato plant. A
great herb to start with is Oregano. It grows like a weed and will take over some beds if left unchecked.
I have an oregano bed where we used to live that produces so much that I ended up giving much of it
away. I dried so much that I never had to buy from a store.
We recently moved from the country
to a suburb of Buffalo, New York. I
was spoiled by being able to go
straight to farmers and neighbors
for my vegetables, fruits, eggs and
milk. Sometimes I traded my herbs
for their produce, which in my opinion
worked out great. I truly miss fresh
eggs, and hopefully I will find a 4-H’r
to buy some from up here. Since our
relocation here, my husband and I
have started our own gardening. We
started small and are learning much
from our gardening experiences. We
started by container and raised bed
gardening. Our plan this year is to
also include yard gardening.
One of the things I’ve learned is that
information in books and the internet do not necessarily work as stated. I ended up contacting the
folks back home who have gardens frequently. The best way to learn is to talk to people who garden
and by experience. Cooperative Extensions and garden clubs host classes during certain times of
the year. These local experts will also know what fruits, vegetables, and herbs will grow best in your
region. Locally, The Elma CERT group will be hosting a gardening class or classes this spring. Check
EMPact America’s web site www.PrepareHub.org in the next few weeks for the information on the class/
demonstration.
Check back in the next issue of EMPower Magazine for more information and my experiences as a
novice gardener. If you have any recommendations for heirloom seeds or if you have a garden supplier
you would like to suggest contact me through my blog, Natural Preparedness, on PrepareHub.org.
- 20 - JAN.FEB.2013 2013
Also referred to as the “Cave-
Man Diet”, “Stone-Age Diet”,
and “Hunter-Gatherer Diet”, the
Paleolithic Diet is based on the diet that our
species evolved on. Our genes were coded
over thousands of years based on evolutionary and survival benefits
directly related to the available foods. So our bodies are literally
designed to consume in this way. Today’s “civilized” diets include
many foods that were discovered, developed and synthesized long
after the human body had reached the evolutionary point of the modern
man. Therefore, much of what we eat today includes dietary components
that our bodies are not designed to handle.
For example, for millions of years, man survived by consuming meat, fish,
fowl, leaves, fruit and roots of plants. About 10,000 years ago, the diet of
the human being was altered permanently by a profound breakthrough:
the discovery that cooking certain foods made them edible. Before this
innovation, grains, beans and potatoes were not consumed, as they are
inedible and toxic if eaten raw.
PALEOLITHICDIET
These newly edible foods marked
the beginning of what some call
“Neolithic” foods. They had their
advantages, for example. Neolithic
Foods could be stored for longer
periods of time without spoiling. Also, small amounts of them
contain many calories so transporting this food source also
became beneficial and easier. Despite the advantages, our
digestive systems and physical compositions did not develop
while eating things like grains, beans and potatoes.
After farming plants and animals developed as well, dairy was soon
introduced to the diet as well. Dairy products were introduced to our diets
and our genetic coding provided us with some ability to process some
components of dairy but not others. Cows milk, from an evolutionary
standpoint, is perfect for a calf. It is perfect for the calf that has a brain
that is only a tiny fraction of its overall body weight- whereas humans
have big brains. Therefore, cows milk is low in crucial nutrients for human
brain development, particularly omega 3 fats.
ARTICLE BY CRISTINA MAXON
JAN.FEB.2013 - 21 -
WHY IS A “NEOLITHIC” DIET DISCOURAGED?
These foods are discouraged because they share the following
important characteristics:
• Toxic when raw- many of these foods are completely
toxic when uncooked and can be extremely harmful to
our bodies. They include toxins like enzyme blockers,
lectins and other highly dangerous toxins.
• When cooked, most of these toxins are
eliminated, but not all. Sicknesses such as
gastroenteritis can be a result of eating
undercooked foods containing these toxic
qualities.
• These foods are also rich in
carbohydrates, and have a high
glycemic index (causes the blood
sugar to rapidly spike and fall).
• They are poor sources of
vitamins- especially low
in vitamins A, B-group,
folic acid and vitamin
C, minerals, antioxidants
and phytosterols.
HOW TO BEGIN
Your body may be used to some
of the toxins in the foods you’ve
been eating for years, it may take
some time to adjust to clean-eating. If
you think you’d like to give the Paleolithic
Diet a try and begin detoxifying your body,
here’s how to get the ball rolling. Start by
shifting your diet one meal at a time, beginning
with breakfast. Instead of toast or cereal, substitute
eggs for a protein-kick start and fruit early in the day.
More food tips, recipes, shopping lists and resources, check
out: paleofood.com and paleofoodlist.com and for a great
description and more indepth explanation of the basics of the
Paleo Diet, check out this blog:
http://www.earth360.com/diet_paleodiet_balzer.html
If your carbohydrate intake is high, like most people, reduce your carb-intake
slowly. If you reduce too quickly you may feel tired or unwell. Start
with breakfast for the first few days and eat as you normally
would for the remainder of the day.
Next include a Paleolithic
lunch in your diet once
you’ve mastered
breakfast. Enjoy a
large salad filled
with mixed greens
such as spinach,
arugula, lettuce and
veggies like tomatoes,
cucumbers, onions, carrots,
cabbage, nuts and fruits. One
of the salad’s worst enemies (and
the reason why many salad-diets
fail) is the salad dressing. Many people
may think the salad is healthy but then
overdo it with fatty, highly caloric dressing
in excessive portions. The best dressing
recommended for the Paleolithic diet is olive
oil, as it is pressed from fruit. Lemon juice is also
recommended as a flavorful, low-calorie option for
salad dressing.
Salads are good any time on this diet, but dinner can also
include more meats and cooked veggies. As long as you avoid
potatoes and follow the food list, eat a big dinner!
- 22 - JAN.FEB.2013 2013
For months, we have watched as Congress has put off it’s responsibilities to work on solutions for the betterment of our Nation. Procrastination and deal making has led to the less than productive outcome of many important legislative bills that were pending action in both the House and Senate. The American people should be able to expect better, but is it our own fault for re-electing incumbents who have proven ineffective both individually and as a body?
Within the last couple of months,
the “Fiscal Cliff” has dominated
our news and financial markets.
With the importance of this issue,
legislators should have been
working day and night to provide an
effective solution. A bill was passed
in the final seconds of the 112th
congress, but it was thrown together
with back room deals and lacked the
teeth necessary to comprehensively
address the nation’s debt and fiscal
stability. Even more disturbing,
is the fact that the House of
Representatives had no time to
read the bill to understand its
contents. With spending cuts not
even addressed in the Taxpayer
Relief Act, representatives will
go back to debating spending
cuts in entitlement programs and
increasing revenues by increased
taxation.
Also, on the legislative table, was a
bill to financially address Hurricane
Sandy’s recovery and rebuilding
efforts. Although this bill does not
address issues faced by the entire
nation, it is important for all those
affected by the unprecedented storm.
The bill also included funding for
public improvement projects that
would provide future protection to the
electric grid. Unfortunately, the bill
was not as lucky to be addressed by
the House of Representatives and will
now have to be reintroduced in the new
113th Congress. That leaves New York
and New Jersey’s emergency services
organizations to fend for themselves.
This important and unfortunate
example of ineffectiveness, should
explain the importance of preparing
yourself and your family for disasters
like Hurricane Sandy.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE MCCULLOCH
JAN.FEB.2013 - 23 -
Do you feel exasperation with our elected leaders when watching the aforementioned issues unfold in the media? We can complain and pontificate all we want about ineffective leadership in our nations capital, but ultimately the votes we have cast in the past election have accomplished nothing but a continuation of the status quo.
This past November, Rasmussen reported polling which showed that Congress
had a 10% favorable rating with the American people. The most current
favorability rating on December 27th was even lower, coming in at
5%. Does that statistic make any sense when you look at the fact that
93% of incumbents were re-elected? What can explain this statistical
phenomenon? Partisanship, money and ignorance! Sadly, incumbents
understand this and base their action or inactions appropriate to their own
campaign needs….not ours.
In contrast, if you look at company’s who are accountable to their shareholders
and their Board of Director’s, decision makers at all levels are held strictly
responsible for their work ethic, effective strategy vision and outcomes.
Procrastination and blaming another colleague for shortfalls and inactions
is not the way for them to produce bottom line results, although it is a way
to earn a pink slip. But nonetheless, our government keeps a few tricks up
its sleeve that aren’t available in the private sector; the ability to mint a coin
worth $1 trillion dollars to pay its bills.
Yes, you read that correctly. There is a loophole in our system that would allow
the Treasury Secretary to mint a platinum coin, worth whatever the secretary
deems necessary, to be deposited at the Federal Reserve.
This would be presented as a way to avert any discussions on increasing the
debt ceiling. Think it’s absurd? One lawmaker in DC doesn’t think so, and
has introduced legislation that would bar the Treasury from creating the
currency. Representative Greg Walden (R-OR) has taken the threat seriously
and is quoted in the Washington Post as saying, “This scheme to mint trillion
dollar platinum coins is absurd and dangerous, and would be laughable if the
proponents weren’t so serious about it as a solution,” my bill will take the coin
scheme off the table by disallowing the Treasury to mint platinum coins as a
way to pay down the debt.”
Why do our Representatives in Congress not hold themselves to a higher
standard? Are they really trying every absurd tactic in the book to circumvent
doing the work of the people? Is there no pride in a job well done for others
that are relying on you? After all, our nation’s most critical issues are
entrusted to them.
The only way that this entrenched, idle attitude of our elected representatives is going to change is if we the people hold them accountable. Senator Dan Coats stated “consistently governing from the edge of a cliff is detrimental to our country and reflective of a complete lack of leadership in Washington.” We couldn’t agree more!
- 24 - JAN.FEB.2013 2013
Article by Michelle McCulloch
This year’s flu strain has wreaked havoc across the nation earlier than expected. At this time, the CDC states that most of the nation is reporting increased cases. Early statistics show that this outbreak may be the worst ever on record. With the increasing numbers, it is important for you to protect yourselves from this strong outbreak.
The best way to keep you and your family healthy is to get the flu shot early in the season.
Annual shots will protect you against the most recent
strains and keep you protected for 9 months. Shots
are available at your local pharmacies or doctor’s
offices, but are becoming less available as the need
increases.
Those most at risk are seniors, children and those
with chronic health issues. According to the CDC,
Most healthy adults can infect others one day before
symptoms develop and five to seven days after
symptoms appear. Some people, especially young
children and people with weakened immune systems,
might be contagious for a longer period.
CDC WARNS OF FLU OUTBREAK – TAKE STEPS TO PREPARE YOUR FAMILY
CDC’s mobile web site provides a subset of CDC’s most popular seasonal influenza content, tailored for viewing on iPhones, Android, and other handheld devices.
JAN.FEB.2013 - 25 -
• If you are within the first 2 days, the anti-viral medication
Tami-flu may help reduce and less the severity. Call your
doctor when symptoms appear to see if this is appropriate for
your illness.
• Decongestants can ease discomfort from stuffy noses,
sinuses, ears, and chests.
• Fevers and aches can be treated with a pain reliever such as
acetaminophen (Tylenol®, for example), ibuprofen (Advil®,
Motrin®, Nuprin®), or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
(NSAIDS) (Aleve®).If you have kidney disease or stomach
problems, check with your health care provider before taking
any NSAIDS.
• Getting plenty of rest
• Drinking clear fluids like water, broth, sports drinks, or
electrolyte beverages to prevent becoming dehydrated
• Placing a cool, damp washcloth on your forehead, arms, and
legs to reduce discomfort associated with a fever
• Putting a humidifier in your room to make breathing easier
• Gargling salt water (1:1 ratio warm water to salt) to soothe a
sore throat
• Covering up with a warm blanket to calm chills
• Get some books and great movies to help you pass the hours.
As with anything relating to your physical health, please check
with your doctor for the best diagnosis and treatment.
For more information on the flu virus, you can visit the Centers
for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/.
If you are one of the unlucky ones and contract the virus, here are some tips to get you through it.
The CDC website offers some helpful flu-activity-tracking apps and information like a “Weekly US Map: Influenza Summary Update”, interactive maps, and more.
CDC WARNS OF FLU OUTBREAK – TAKE STEPS TO PREPARE YOUR FAMILY
