SurvivalBlog Readers’ & Editors’ Snippets

This weekly column is a collection of short snippets: practical self-sufficiency items, how-tos, lessons learned, tips and tricks, and news items — both from readers and from SurvivalBlog’s editors. We may select some long e-mails for posting as separate letters. Most of this week’s Snippets came in response to the recent article: Establishing a Community Corner, by Mark C.

Reader G.G. sent this: China accidentally sparks ‘doomsday prepper’ frenzy after telling residents to stockpile food.

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Reader Tim J. wrote to mention that the American Partisan website has been re-vamped. Tim notes:

“Lots of changes, regular articles in the center, alternative/foreign news on the sides, Solar conditions [for HF propagation] at the bottom.”

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Lisa in Texas wrote:

“I would like to comment on the article by Establishing a Community Corner, by Mark C.

I would say that an all year round indoor/outdoor marketplace would be a very good idea. We have one “close” by, in Texas terms. It is only open on Saturday’s and Tuesday evenings. The hours are limited and vendors pay a price for the area to set up. Of course, the indoor spaces are more expensive and those that require electrical are even more so. The variety of items are seasonal with the majority being fresh vegetables but you can also find grass-fed beef, fresh eggs, herbs (both plants and dried) and during the early spring organic vegetable plants for transplanting. During the fall/winter months, you can find various crafts including candles, woodworking, crocheted items. and home-baked (individually wrapped) holiday goods. It is frequented by folks far and wide, however, you can tell the locals as they are the familiar faces. The last time I was there there was a vendor located inside that sold coffee and pastries at a very reasonable price. Another thought as an additional attraction, offer free space for local musicians to preform for tips. The space doesn’t need to be elaborate but electrical access would be required. It’s a win win situation as they get to show off their talents while the shoppers listen to some great music.”

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Gretchen in New Mexico had this comment in response to Establishing a Community Corner, by Mark C.:

“Here in rural NM, components of your concepts exist in our area. Our unincorporated village has about 200 people, with a nearby sister village of about 50. We are officially a ghost town (gold and silver mining), but you’d never convince us of that.

One location, previously a Mennonite bakery, repurposed themselves as a community recreation center during the COVID lockdown. They cut their menu (a breakfast buffet that ran from 8 am until noon on weekdays) by about 40% and made it donations only. Same for their baked goods and jams. They were probably a non-profit to start, but you might be able to do this as some sort of private club, depending on your state laws.

Our town has a bookshelf exchange and a free food box under a covered picnic area. The food box is primarily for canned goods donated by community members for those in need. This was well used early in COVID, but not too much these days.

We also have two bulletin boards. One is for notice of official meetings, as the fire department, community library, potable water association, community center and museum are all run by local non-profits volunteers. Meeting announcements and agendas are posted on that board. The other is for other notices. Political stuff is discouraged. Most of the notices are for services, items for sale, upcoming events and general communication, such as funeral notices, invitations to gatherings, etc.  The Community Center and museum operate primarily on donations.

Saturday mornings there is a bit of a farm market for seasonal fruits and vegetables, preserves, honey and crafts from locals set up near the little post office. People bring chairs and local musicians (now some come from miles away) form a music circle to play guitars, banjos, mandolins, etc from about 10 am until noon or 1 pm. Others gather to listen, as it is excellent folk and blue grass music. It’s done as round robin, when it’s your turn, you pick and lead the tune, then it’s the next guy’s turn.

The museum recently built a wide porch and has demonstrations or lectures on Saturdays as well. Recent demonstrations have included spinning, weaving, blacksmithing and leatherworking.”

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Susan H. wrote:

“If you are moving to a small rural town, are wanting to become part of the local community, and develop strong networks as well as improve communication, I have 2 suggestions.

First would be to join one of the local churches, or if you are not strongly religious, the local fire department. Becoming involved in the local community is the fastest way to breach the “new outsider syndrome”. So find a church you feel comfortable with. Or join the local fire department. They are always looking for more volunteers. Most pay for your training and you will be establishing networks and getting training which could be useful in case of SHTF.

Small rural communities tend to be action based. Folks who live in big cities go “hang out” and socialize at the local coffee shop, or restaurant. Country folks are busy farming, logging, hunting, out doing things. The Starbucks concept of sitting around socializing is not the same in rural areas, although I would guess there may be a local breakfast place which sees a lot of business between 6-8AM from all the local farmers who stop in for a cup of coffee. After the Church service on Sundays there may be a “coffee hour” where folks chat for a short time in the community room behind the Church.

To your question of how to help everyone locate what goods and services are available in the area…my guess is you as the new guy in town is the one looking to find out what is available from whom. The “locals” already know. They undoubtedly grew up together, went to school together, and married friends and neighbors. Their grandparents and great-grandparents most likely settled the area together. They are your best resource for finding who is a good HVAC guy, a plumber, someone to plow snow for you, or the best place to go pick apples from or directions to the feed mill for your animal feed. In other words, be very pleasant to your neighbors, join the local church or the local fire department, or if you have kids in school, join the local PTA or scout pack and then ask for guidance and recommendations from folks you meet there. And be prepared to be considered “the new guy” for the next 10+ years. Looking on the Facebook local community page would be another spot to look, or at the bulletin boards in the local market. But for the most part, it’s who you know, so ask the folks you live around. They do know.

Bottom line, there are already lines of communication present in your new rural community. The difference is the way to access those links is vastly different than what you are used to seeing in the big city. As the new kid in town, you have to learn how to fit into the existing structures, rather than change those structures to fit what you are used to seeing. The hardest part of moving into a new area is not to go around saying “where I used to live, we did suchnsuch” unless you are looking for someone to tell you to go back to where you used to live. Because in rural areas, folks do have a tendency to be rather blunt and plain spoken, and don’t beat around the bush much.”

“Z.” wrote:

“Mark, I have lived in one of the small communities you are referencing for 26 years now in Western Washington.  With all due respect, the way you have presented your ideas actually confirms your status as an outsider and a transplant.  I can see you mean well, but the folks who are already living in the area you are moving into are doing just that – living – in the area.  Much of what you are proposing is usually being done – somewhere – in the community and most who live there know where.

I am sure you would find your efforts very much appreciated if you were to locate what is currently happening in the area and contribute to the motion and help the existing community leaders rather than considering creating and implementing your own vision for the area.

There are leaders already in charge in whatever area you move into.  The bulletin board is at the laundry in the next town or the place to purchase farm fresh eggs is the lumber yard down the highway.  That old guy sitting at the counter in the restaurant knows everyone and you need his nod to be considered a person to deal with.  The church has a free supper and the local booster club is supported by the owner of the best grass-fed cows and Mary is the final word on friendly.

Just a few examples.

Go to the local church, the kids’ games, the boosters, Fire District and Water District meetings.  Your ideas are wonderful but you cannot do this for the community.  You need to first become a part of the community then work within the community to achieve what is needed by the community.

Most folks will heavily resist someone coming in from the outside to tell us what we need or attempt to provide assistance that is thought to be needed – first find out what is actually needed by the community, then provide.

Sounds like you are ready and willing to be a wonderful part of any community you join!”

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Reader Ken B. sent this:

“In response to Mark C and his well-timed 11/5 post about community meeting spaces, I would submit the old-fashioned Grange Halls already serve that purpose (though many have fallen into disuse). I really think Mark is onto something with his plan, but let’s not reinvent the wheel. Find some old-timers who remember the old ways and pick their minds while they are still sharp. Those men and women hosted community events through thick and thin in said common space. I remember visiting several in my youth and as a young adult. In fact, I recall utilizing the grange for a firefighting training center in Western Oregon in a particularly dry year. I drive past a grange hall every week on my way to the rifle & pistol range- I think I will stop in and see what’s cookin’.

Revitalize what we already have. Leverage the knowledge and memories of those who have survived way worse than the demonrats are throwing our way currently. Make the place a reflection of the common needs, goals, morals, and values of the community. I think your community may be further along with your idea than you know Mark! Peace to you and yours.”

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SaraSue wrote:

“I will share what my family members did in a tiny town in the middle of Idaho. They had an idea to open a market for their produce grown in a huge greenhouse. I was there throughout the startup, planting, growing, selling, and I baked, and sewed, items for the shop. That was the start of it. They closed that business after a year because it was a huge drain on their finances due to rent, utilities, and the cost of retailing. They invited all the local farmers and residents to join in and they purchased their goods “wholesale”, then resold them at a very tiny markup. They also allowed people to bring in their specialty crafts on consignment. Even though they closed the business side of it, the good news is that it brought the entire community together and now everyone trades or buys goods and services that they wouldn’t have normally done, outside the shop. It also created wonderful relationships and my family members are now firmly a part of the Community who gets together regularly for all kinds of events. (I’ve heard they miss me and my sourdough bread and pastries!). I agree with JWR that it would work better as an adjunct to an existing business or church. The church is a great place to start, but I’d also get to know the city mayor and council members (which we did in going through the process). There were no politics involved, just people reaching out to people. Everyone knew then where to get eggs, chickens, beef, produce, baked goods, handmade items, etc. I’m not sure how to translate that into your ideas – but if you are a newcomer to the area, it’s best to get to know folks before starting something new. There is now a regular farmers market there where there wasn’t before. All kinds of good things spun off of the initial effort. Ideas: Join any clubs that already exist, if it’s something you’re interested in. I got to know the Quilters, for instance. Frequent all the local establishments and spend time there. Get to know people and spend your money at their places. If you hunt, find other hunters by visiting the local arms dealer or gun range. Help out the Senior Center, if there is one. Donate to the church pantry and the local youth group with time and/or money. Basically, step forward and get involved first before starting something new. My two cents.”

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Ol’ Dog offered this:

“I applaud your efforts. Having a coffee pot is a given. Having real cream provided by a local farmer, who just happens to sell milk on the side [cottage industry] is a win, win. Given the weather now having an indoor place for a few people to sell or offer [farmer’s market of sorts] would mostly go unnoticed, and in such a small community they would likely revel in it. Better if I am making a few pancakes and frying bacon for myself…which I happen to share with others, in a place as small as you describe it would likely go unnoticed by the health department. If this morphed into someone with a vendors license selling food in what many are feeling as “hard times”. Here such vendors are scrambling trying to get the edge over the other at any event they can find.

The cautions: The coffee pot will likely win over alcohol, and your conversation themes could draw unwanted attention by said health department…depending on the “climate”. The old adage of one rotten apple comes to mind here. Speak with the health department on the front end before the paint dries on the door and get a feel for their views…there. I can show you a difference in practice from one corner of our state to the other.”

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Richard T. suggested:

“We moved into a small Midwestern town of 1500 from a large metropolitan area 30 years ago and I would offer this advice to anyone attempting to establish a community hangout. #1, be open to any conversation; at first people will be inquisitive of you but will also be eager to share their story. I’d guess most small towns, like ours, has a large portion of residents that are newcomers, most of which are ambivalent to local history. Research local history by talking to long-time residents, review archived newspapers at the library, find out who cares and ask questions. Demonstrating interest generates interest. Avoid divisive issues, and obey barbershop rules:  No preaching or politics.”

And Animal House sent this:

“The idea presented is a good one, although it may be a difficult start up. I would suggest a few initial actions:
– Become a good customer of every business in the town; don’t discriminate. Nothing makes small business owners happier than frequent and repeat customers who will grow into good neighbors.
– Eat at the local restaurants and tip the table/wait staff at the local rate. People notice.
– Support the volunteer fire department and any sheriff department’s activities; take food or cookies for them every now and again.
– Have coffee with the good ole guys at the appropriate cafe where they gather.
– If there is a library in town, get to know those who run it; they usually know all the gossip.
– Volunteer to participate in the town’s 4th of July celebration and other activities.
– Support the local school activities (fundraisers for holiday celebrations, football, swim team, band), even if you don’t have kids in those schools, but make sure you and your wife go together.
– Find a local church and join the congregation; sing in the choir or teach in children’s ministry.
Once you progress from the new guy to a friend and town advocate, then move on the Community Center idea. Good luck and God Bless!”

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Reader 3ADScout penned this:

“What we did in October to be better prepared for the long, cold and dark winter:

Started the month by getting back to work on the outdoor oven, went to Lowe’s and picked up more clay bricks and mortar.  Laid a lot of clay brick and set the fire brick inside the burn chamber.  I thought for sure I would get it done but several days of rain prevented that.

Having fairly good luck selling some of our old barn beams which makes a little extra cash available for preps.

Started to re-wire the older barn for few electrical outlets and lights.  It had electric to it at one time.  I was hoping I could salvage the boxes and lights but humidity over the many years has ruined them.  Put some more 2×4 rough cut lumber up in the barn stalls to keep the animals from damaging the metal siding.  I ordered and received 5 Lithonia vapor tight lights to use in the barn.  Considering the rust on the old lights this was wise.

Purchased a very nice aluminum US military medical supplies case. This is my third one.  The previous owner had painted the outside yellow so I repainted it OD green.  I moved one and a half plastic totes of medical supplies into the new case.  At the same garage sale that I bought the aluminum case, I picked up a full 20lb propane tank, 2 new, in the box, 26” bicycle inner tubes, and a very nice made in the USA,  US Army wrist compass.  I think the compass was made right around WWII or Korea since it is bakelite and much bigger than the newer military wrist compasses used today.    At the Salvation Army store I Picked up more candles, a very nice Mirro aluminum cookie sheet, a made in the US barometer, thermometer, and humidity gauge set, a set of two, still in box, small cast iron (7”) pans, a new antique gadgets brand coil beater whisk, a medical grade blood pressure cuff, a set of Tasco 7x35mm binoculars, a very nice M65 field jacket in woodland camo, a 3 D-cell mag-light, a mini-mag-lite, and a box of 15, quart canning jars.  Stopped off at three of the local thrift stores and picked up a hand-cranked food mixer/beater, a potato masher, a set of metal measuring spoons, a new in-the-box seal for 4qt pressure canner, and a French fry cutter.  The real deal of the month was a water can fire extinguisher that can be refilled and charged using an air compressor, bought for $5.  I couldn’t get the $5 bill out of my wallet quick enough.

Food-related, we had to buy some more Mylar bags, plastic buckets and lids.  I was still able to get food grade buckets for $5.99 so I bought more than I thought I would need.   Sealed up 70lbs of rice.  Purchased and put away into a Mylar bag and a plastic bucket 12.5 pounds of shredded hash browns.  Dollar tree had butterscotch hard candies back in stock so I picked up 8 bags and put those into a bucket, will finish filling in November and December.  The Dollar Tree was low on some items but not anything near what I’ve seen on some YouTube videos.  Wife and I wanted to fill the freezer so we went to a local independent grocery store that has a very good reputation for their in-house butcher shop.  Got a few steaks, a 10 pound pork butt, 2 London Broils,  20 pounds of ground beef, several pounds of boneless chicken breast, some pork chops and the big find was a 13 pound bag of slab bacon ends from a local meat provisioner.  The pieces seemed to be the ends that the butcher couldn’t cut anymore probably due to safety concerns.  We ended up paying $3.29 a pound for the bacon.  Some we packaged up for making regular bacon and the littler pieces we put in smaller bags to use in beans and soups.  It was sad at how empty this small town’s grocery store’s freezers were.  Their fresh-cut meat section was very empty too.  We were hoping to fill the freezer but they just didn’t have the product the first time we went.  We went back a week later and they had a much better selection of fresh-cut meats.  So we picked up more pork chops, ground beef, chicken breasts, and more London Broil.  Feel much better now that the chest freezer is full.

Spent some time cleaning up the mounds that were formed over the summer months in the prepper man-cave.  Summer is to short and winter is so long it just makes sense to leave organizing the summer acquisitions until it’s cold outside when I’m looking for something to keep me occupied inside.  I broke out the leather conditions and applied it to two pairs of winter boots, some leather straps, and a couple holsters.  Ahhh the advantages of Kydex!  But I tell you, there is nothing better than a nice vintage pistol belt with a nice black leather holster for the 1911.

Trying to get the outside task done as the temperatures are turning colder and colder.  Finished the second pig pen inside the barn.  Fixed the electric fence wire that got broken by one of the Amish construction crew’s horses.  Dried a few ears of corn to store away as seed.  They are an heirloom variety.  Cleaned out the gutters and cut and split more firewood.  Moved a bunch of the old barn wood and the old barn doors so they would be up off the ground for the winter.

Picked up 500 small rifle primers, 50 stormproof matches, 2 USB charging cables for the goal zero solar panel, a box of 20ga shotgun shells in number 5 shot, 3 boxes of .308, and a cast iron Lodge bread pan.  One of the local hardware stores had their garden seeds on clearance for 25 cents a pack.  They were not heirloom but considering the world situation and the price, I bought 13 packets, mostly yellow and acorn squash, a few packs of large red cherry tomatoes and one cauliflower.  Stopped off at Lowe’s and they were re-setting one whole row of hardware and had marked lot of the old-stock down so I picked up some mending plates/bars, and corner braces.  I found 2 pairs of green Dickies Carpenter’s Jeans for a really good price.  I ordered and received a bunch of spare parts for my Stihl MS391 chainsaw.  Put away several more boxes of ziplock bags in various sizes.  We keep a very good supply of these on hand all the time since they are so versatile in their uses.  Went to the local farmer’s co-op and picked up a 50lb bag of milk replacer, a hay rack, a bunch of made in the US hacksaw blades (50 cents each) and some pine tar.   The local tractor supply had a massive clearance sale on seasonal merchandise- I picked up a brass hose splitter (1 to 4) for a dollar!

Went and filled up the empty gas cans with ethanol free gasoline. 34 gallons and I still have the gas caddy to fill up but it has a few gallons still in it. The ethanol free gas was $4.21 a gallon, I hated to spend that but with treating it with Stabil or Pri-G I have used it when it was about two years old with no problems.  I wouldn’t even attempt that with “regular” gas.

I have been noticing that our Salvation Army store has cut back on hours. They are closed on Mondays altogether and close at 5pm each day.  It seems like they are not getting as much inventory in either.  As the month went on it seemed like there were less and less clothes on the racks.”

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Another news item from G.G.: Biden Admin Amassing Millions of Records on US Gun Owners Amid New Crackdown on Firearms.

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