Who Needs Terrorists? We have Bureaucrats to Destroy the US

Bruce’s Poor Man Survival Bulletin

A Digest of Urban Survival Resources

http://www.PoorManSurvival.com

For Independent Minded People!

ISSN 2161-5543

In This Issue:

1.       Who Needs Terrorists?  We have bureaucrats to destroy the country

2.      Help for those experiencing hard times

3.      Free Training & medical care for Veterans

4.      Bigger isn’t always better

 

 

The hardest thing to learn in life is which bridge to cross and which to burn.
- David Russell

 

 

Help for Hard Times Launched

The feds launched Help for Difficult Financial Times to highlight government resources that can make your life easier during tough times. As part of this effort, we ran a poll asking: What helps you most when money is tight? 5,352 of you responded:

 

Savings 44%

Family 21%

Credit cards/loans 20%

Government assistance 15%

 

With 64 percent of you stating that savings, credit cards, and loans are the resources you turn to in tough times, we know we need to continue providing information on those topics.

Given that only 15 percent of you turn to government assistance in tough times, we want to make sure you know about benefits that could help you.

Government assistance comes in different forms—from unemployment checks and food assistance to credit counseling and medical treatment. The resources we've highlighted on our Help for Difficult Financial Times page are meant to guide you in finding such assistance. These are some of the most popular resources:

 

Government Benefits and Financial Assistance – Get information about grants, loans, financial aid, and other assistance.

Mortgage Payment Assistance – Learn about mortgage relief, housing counseling, foreclosure, and more.

Low-Cost or Free Health Insurance Options – Get the information you need to choose the health insurance plan that’s right for you and your family.

Find a Job – Find a resume builder, get employment assistance, and search for jobs.

Manage Your Debt – Learn about the steps you can take to get debt under control.

 

Take advantage of these and the resources offered at PoorManSurvival.com

 

Check your tire inflation levels monthly, especially during autumn months.  Underinflated tires wear out more quickly and reduce fuel mileage.

 

PM’s Compendium of Useful Resources

 

Free training course helps veterans adapt technical skills to land jobs

 

With many soldiers leaving service with technical and computer skills, New York-based Incline is offering training in order to help them adapt that talent to the workplace.

We recently saw CloudFactory attempting to get those in poorer countries online work and training, and now another startup we’ve spotted is aiming to do the same thing for army veterans in the US. With many soldiers leaving service with technical and computer skills, New York-based Incline is offering training in order to help them adapt that talent to the workplace.

According to data given by the organization, the tech industry in the US is growing by 30 percent every year, yet thousands of positions are left unfilled due to a dearth of talent. Incline is attempting to help this problem by offering the influx of soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan – 220,000 currently, with more to come over the next few years – free tuition which will develop their existing skills and boost their knowledge of web and software development.

www.inclinehq.com

 

If you served in the active military, naval, or air service and were honorably discharged or released, you may qualify for VA health care benefits, including hospital services. Certain Reservists and National Guard Members may also qualify. Check your eligibility.

If you qualify, you can apply online or by phone, mail, or in-person. Learn more about all the ways you can apply.

 

Bigger Is Always Cheaper

This used to be true. "Family" or "institutional" size cans, jars and packages of food should cost less per ounce. Unfortunately, some retailers have recently been overpricing large items, probably because they know that many will assume they are the better buy without doing the math.

 

$5 Funnel Solar Oven - Make A Solar Oven For $5

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnynux2eGbY&list=PLD334989D57F5E5F7&index=1&feature=plpp_video

 

DIY home canning of meat-many different to choose from

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RygxZ6YUnYg

 

A new study from Pew (source). It combines several sources of data to decisively declare a lost decade for the middle class:

Medium income data for the middle class shows a drop over 10 years from $72,956 in 2001 to $69,487 in 2010, the first time in the postwar years when income ended a 10-year period lower than when it started Median wealth, which means assets minus debt, fell 28% in the same time frame. A broad poll shows that 84% of people say it is more difficult than 10 years ago just to maintain the previous standard of living.   Extend the life of bar soap by unwrapping a month before you use it.  The exposed soap will harden and last longer.

The Nanny State Updates…

 

Consumers Against Supermarket Privacy Invasion and Numbering (CASPIAN)

 and other leading privacy and civil liberties organizations, has issued a Position Paper on the use of RFID in schools. Radio Frequency Identification is an identification and tracking technology "designed to monitor physical objects," such as commercial products, vehicles, and animals. Some school districts are proposing to use RFID ID tags to monitor students, teachers, and staff.

The report warns of significant privacy and security risks if schools adopt RFID tracking, and if the tracking is adopted, the position paper urges schools to adopt robust privacy safeguards.

Radio Frequency Identification is an identification tracking technology "designed to monitor physical objects," such as commercial products, vehicles, and animals. Some school districts are proposing to use RFID ID tags to monitor students, teachers, and staff. "Chipping" students, or requiring students to wear RFID badges, raises significant privacy and security concerns. These badges can reveal intimate details such a visit to a counselor or nurse's office.

 

Once a month before you retire for the night, pour 8-oz of baking soda into the toilet tank, flush in the morning.  This will keep the parts clean and in working order longer.

The Parting Thought- Why Chuck Can’t Get his business going.

 

Who Needs Terrorists?  America has Bureaucrats to Destroy the country!

 

The purpose of those who wield power is to keep the masses dumbed down and paranoid regarding artificial enemies. By making life an inexhaustible bureaucratic nightmare of rules, regulations, forms, ID cards, registrations, and red tape, those in power maintain control and accumulate power.

 

Part of our continuing series on How to Take America Back from Dysfunctional Politicians.

 

One Nation Under Too Many Laws…

 

In this bulletin you’ve read countless examples of how unelected bureaucrats beat down small businesses and the little guy…Kids getting huge fines for selling Girl Scout cookies, hot dogs or lemonade in front of their home. Growing a garden or raising chickens at home, harvesting your own rainwater (the government thinks they own the rainwater).

 

Recently, a good friend got arrested and after posting bond, was told not to leave the state.  What was his offense?  Replacing a water valve on a home shower stall - without a permit! A misdemeanor. My friend is a master contractor, with a current state license, however, in Oakland County, MI that license isn’t recognized.  Adding insult to injury, this county charges $75 an hour for access to a public defender (MI is one of 15 states to recently impose such fees in violation of the Constitution).

 

Ironically, our friend didn’t install the device, a sub-contractor did it without authorization.  So the court will waste a lot of tax dollars and time over a petty misdemeanor and possibly waste even more tax resources incarcerating him as the two “offenses” he was charged with each carry a maximum three month sentence plus fines.

 

Ask any small business owner or would be owner…’what’s the top challenge to starting or expanding a business in the US?”  The answer is simple - government red tape and costs.  Then our pinhead elected representatives wonder why there is so little job creation.

 

Our politicians, our legislators, our bureaucrats, they are always right, and they're all about our well-being, our future. We owe them.

After all, where would we be without our government?

 

For every bureaucrat, we destroy 3.5 productive jobs or businesses.  Keep in mind, most  (not all) government workers produce NOTHING!  We have far too many federal agencies which have outlived their usefulness; the value for what they do is actually counterproductive to our country and is a threat to our economic security.

 

American has more unelected officials and agencies creating ‘laws’, rules and regulation without benefit of legislation than any other nation on the planet…virtually no one can keep up with the amount of new red tape being created annually and it is destroying our country and that’s the reason why I fear our government more than terrorists.

 

Throughout President Obama’s tenure, the number and cost of major regulations has approached record levels—exceeding $46 billion in new annual costs during his first three years. The impact has been economically crippling, of course, notwithstanding the administration’s boasts of regulatory benefits.

 

During the first three years of the Obama Administration, 106 new major federal regulations added more than $46 billion per year in new costs for Americans. This is almost four times the number—and more than five times the cost—of the major regulations issued by George W. Bush during his first three years. Hundreds more regulations are winding through the rulemaking pipeline as a consequence of the Dodd–Frank financial-regulation law, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, and the Environmental Protection Agency’s global warming crusade, threatening to further weaken an anemic economy and job creation. Congress must increase scrutiny of regulations—existing and new. Reforms should include requiring congressional approval of major rules and mandatory sunset clauses for major regulations.

http://www.heritage.org/research/reports/2012/03/red-tape-rising-obama-era-regulation-at-the-three-year-mark

 

Over regulation is what’s killing our country. Next time a politician tells you he has come up with a great new plan to create jobs, and his plan does not include firing himself, disregard him. Maybe if we all did they would just go away.

 

View Why Chuck Can’t Get his Business off the Ground

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=YQscE3Xed64#!

 

Government criminalizes rainwater collection from your own property - outrageous assault on freedom in America…don’t move to Nazi run Oregon!

http://tv.naturalnews.com/v.asp?v=E9D083FE1A928B3B0145570778F9D29C

 

Source:  PoorManSurvival.com, The Heritage Foundation…If you missed the first in our series, click here:

 

Tired of “Government by Intimidation?
Learn how we can take back America from dysfunctional politicians-without firing a shot! Or will Americans get what they deserve because they lack the cajones to act?
http://poormansurvivorblog.blogspot.com/2012/08/taking-back-america-from-dysfunctional.html

 

 “Until the next revolution”, the Poor Man

 

Follow us on Facebook

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http://twitter.com/poormansurvivor

 

Keep our services free, visit our sites…

Check our Resources

 

New self sufficiency books added weekly

http://www.OldBookNook.com

 

A Shallow Planet Production

Tips for using the 2nd oldest profession, Preparing for hunting season

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bruce’s Poor Man Survival Bulletin

A Digest of Urban Survival Resources

http://www.PoorManSurvival.com

For Independent Minded People!

ISSN 2161-5543

In This Issue:

1.       Tips for better bartering

2.      Tips on getting ready for hunting season

3.      Easy camp bread recipe, Apprenticeship Programs

4.      Wikileaks guide to securing free speech

 

Mix a little foolishness with your prudence; it's good to be silly at the right moment.
- Horace

 

We hope all of you enjoy this Labor Day Weekend…and for those without jobs, we certainly extend our prayers that you find one soon!

 

Tips for Using the World’s 2^nd Oldest Profession-Bartering on Craigslist and Other Sites

 

When you boil it down, economies are based on bartering, which is why it’s been called the world’s 2^nd oldest profession. The vast majority of the time, though, we “barter” currency for some particular good or service. Historically speaking, the majority of transactions throughout history have been what we would consider “traditional” bartering: trading one good or service for another. One of the added pluses of bartering is that, if done well, both parties feel they have gained something, not only in goods or services, but in a relational way. Both feel they have added value to someone else.

Craigslist.com, due to its local listing appeal, has become one site to try if you are interested in bartering. Most people scan through listings on Craigslist for things to buy (and great deals can be found if you are patient), but you can also find those who are willing to trade some goods or services. That is especially true for those who have very tight budgets. They are trying to get something they need, but be able to give something back in return.

So, how do you effectively barter on Craigslist? Here are a few general suggestions to consider.

 

1. Use the “Barter” section.

I doubt many people even realize that this section exists, but there is an entire page of Craigslist for each locality that is dedicated to bartering. By using this section, you are appealing to those of like minds.

2. Be honest with what you have.

As with any listing on the site, be completely honest with the product or service you are offering. Don’t undersell, but also do not exaggerate. People will expect what you list, so list honestly. If you want to build a reputation as one who can be trusted, it needs to be built from the very first transaction.

3. List what you would like in return.

Many bartering listings on Craigslist just put a question mark as to what they want in return. While this works sometimes, you need to be honest if there is something specific you truly need in return. For example, if you want a working lawn mower in return for your item or service, then be willing to say that. I have had people throw a curveball when we started talking about what they wanted. That ended the conversation because it was unexpected.

4. Offer something useful to a lot of people.

Unless you are well known in your area for some niche service or product, you are going to have a hard time finding something in return for it. Most people need certain things (textbooks, lawn equipment, painting services, etc.) that can cost quite a bit of money. If you can offer something that is useful to a lot of people, you are more likely to find a match.

5. Be cordial.

Bartering turns many people off because we don’t like confrontation, and they see these discussions as confrontational. If you will be honest from the start, the discussions should be simple. Even if the barter is a bit more complex, continue to be friendly. Bartering is not a way to take advantage of someone. See it as a way to help someone out, and you will be glad you did.

6. Give what is expected.

Some can be tempted to “bait and switch” on a product, or to do a shoddy job with the service, since they aren’t receiving real cash in return. Christians, though, are to do their best at all things. And, remember, you have received something in return!

7. Be patient.

The other piece of advice I would give is true of any transaction, whether it is a traditional shopping purchase or bartering: be patient. When you barter, it can sometimes be out of a time of need, and you can fail to get something of good value in return. Just wait for the

right match and then do your best to deliver what you have promised when you find it.

 

Start practicing your bartering skills today by getting involved in one of the many, online bartering communities. Some of these sites provide a bulletin board where you can post what you have to trade and what you're looking for in return. Others work like a brokering service. They help you find what you need and help others find you who may be interested in what you have.

 

For Survival Purposes, Consider stocking up on the following:

Coffee and tea – people love their morning beverages and will place a high trade value on such comfort items.

Hygiene supplies – everything from toothbrushes to bar soap to lip balm can be useful for barter.

Disposable lighters – These are cheap to buy, but can be very useful for trading purposes in a survival situation.

First aid supplies – aspirin, Neosporin, bandages... they're all good. Just be sure you keep enough on hand for you and your family.

 Make-your-own-cigarette kits at local smoke shops can be quite useful for trade and barter.

Hard candy

 

It pays to do a little research to find the site that fits you best, but here are two more:

 

Barterquest: This site is a step above Craigslist when it comes to bartering. It's dedicated to bartering only. In most cases, it costs you nothing to post a trade, accept an offer, and actually make the exchange. You'll be able to connect to a broader cross-section of traders on a site like this one, and that means more possibilities regarding what trades you can set up.

 

The Barter Company: This is a barter exchange site. It requires a membership fee to participate in the bartering process. It has perks, though. The staff works to help match you with likely bartering partners, and they have a deep and broad network of other bartering sites, so you can end up with a lot of demand for your stuff and a lot of access to other stuff. The fees are hefty, but if you're looking to barter as part of your business, this is a good one to check out.

Another advantage of barter is that cashless transactions are generally private transactions. While I don't ever advise breaking the law, barter is often used as a way to avoid paying lawful taxes. I mention this so you don't inadvertently get caught up in a tax trap.

Sources: Christian PF, Independentlivingnews.com, PoorManSurvival.com

 

Related Resource:  Alternative Currency

Financial Survival Network - Exploring BitCoin

Filmed at FreedomFest

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=yB30alf2smw#!

 

Clean leather furniture and other goods with stale beer, just rub it in or use a solution made from ¼ cup white vinegar combined with a ½ cup of water, then wash with saddle soap.

 

PM’s Compendium of Useful Resources

 

Tips to get Ready for Hunting Season

Don’t forget, many states offer free or lower cost permits for seniors and war vets…

 

While so many of us are grabbing whatever little bit of summer that is left by hanging out at the beach or the local swimming pool, there are those that are quietly preparing for the upcoming hunting season. These folks are trying to gain every little edge they can, which means more than just checking your equipment and wondering where in the basement you put your hunting boots or walking through your local Bass Pro Shops or Cabela’s to see what sales are going on to buy the newest equipment for this season.

Should you hunt up or down?  Each offer its advantages and disadvantages.

Here are some great tips to help you gain an edge over your quarry.

http://www.theoutdoorsguy.com/2011/09/tips-to-get-ready-for-hunting-season/

 

Wiki Leaks Guide To Securing Free Speech

In this era of US government approved assassination and global financial tracking, someone like Mr. Assange takes a great risk in proactively promoting freedom of speech. But he has also taken some very important steps to protect his personal and financial privacy so that he is less at risk of uncomfortable consequences from pissing off the powerful. Learn more at:

http://www.howtovanish.com/2010/08/how-to-plug-a-wiki-leaks-wikileak/?awt_l=9mqfI&awt_m=Kbx8vWJo6ixNxm

 

Apprenticeships can pay for school, provide a post-college job and offer a salary, too. Apprenticeship programs take one to six years, are available in more than 1,000 occupations and require participants to complete at least 2,000 hours of field work annually, according to the Department of Labor.

In exchange, the sponsoring employer pays for college or technical training and provides a salary. A list of available programs is available at the Workforce One website.

Easy Camp Bread Recipe

Tastes like sourdough bread but darn easy to make and with few ingredients:

6 cups of flour

1 tablespoon of active dry yeast

1 tablespoon of salt

3 cups of water - at room temp

Mix the yeast, salt into the flour.  Pour water into the mix and stir.  Will make sloppy stringy wet dough.  Cover with a cloth and let it sit on the counter for 8-24 hours (best results if you wait the full 24-hours).

Roll out into a greased cooking bowl or crock.  (Works best in glass or ceramic) You may want to dust it slightly with flour to ease the rolling process.  Once in the baking dish, let it sit for an hour; then bake in a pre-heated 375 oven for about 45-minutes until golden brown.

 

Remove bugs from your dry grains and beans by placing a dried chili pepper in the container; weevils & meal worms are repelled by the scent of fresh mint leaves.

 

The Nanny State Updates…

Civil Liberties

From "if you see something, say something," to DHS electronic strip searches, to federal agencies purchasing enough ammunition to kill every US citizen three times, Obama has operated government more like the Stasi than a free democratic republic. It appears the old liberals inside the Democratic Party in favor of peace, privacy and free speech have been fully silenced.

You've heard about RFID chips and the fight to keep them out of our pets, livestock, and our bodies. Well, they may have already infiltrated your wallet - and the security risk is real. Check out this excellent investigative news report posted on YouTube (6:08 long) and many thanks to Nora W. who sent this in. Nora found her latest cards did have the chips in them.
http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/lLAFhTjsQHw%26sns=em

The Parting Thought- Labor Day

 

 

The main industry of America today is shuffling papers around in endless circles!

 

Happy Labor Day to those of you who are still laboring!

In 1882, Matthew Maguire, a machinist, first proposed the holiday while serving as secretary of the CLU (Central Labor Union) of New York. Others argue that it was first proposed by Peter J. McGuire of the American Federation of Labor in May 1882, after witnessing the annual labor festival held in Toronto, Canada.

Oregon was the first state to make it a holiday in 1887. By the time it became a federal holiday in 1894, thirty states officially celebrated Labor Day. Following the deaths of a number of workers at the hands of the U.S. military and U.S. Marshals during the Pullman Strike, President Grover Cleveland reconciled with Reyes, leader of the labor movement. Fearing further conflict, legislation making Labor Day a national holiday was rushed through Congress unanimously and signed into law a mere six days after the end of the strike.

 

If you and/or your family are experiencing tough times, you should take advantage of whatever resources you can from the government…after all, you’ve probably been paying into the system for years.  Go here:

http://www.usa.gov/citizen/topics/family/help-for-difficult-financial-times.shtml

 

“Until the next revolution”, the Poor Man

 

Follow us on Facebook

www.facebook.com/PoorManSurvival

 

 Twitter

http://twitter.com/poormansurvivor

 

Keep our services free, visit our sites…

Check our Resources

 

New self sufficiency books added weekly

http://www.OldBookNook.com

 

A Shallow Planet Production