In an alarming and unprecedented move, Democrat Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has ignited a firestorm of opposition with the announcement of an emergency order to suspend both open and concealed carry of firearms in most public spaces around Albuquerque, New Mexico. Leveraging the same “public health” tactics utilized during the draconian COVID-19 shutdowns, Democrat Governor Grisham has once again taken a hammer to the foundational principles that make America a beacon of freedom.

Just like we saw so many democrats do during the COVID shutdowns and mandates, we are seeing the democratic governor exercising her tyranny, using a public health order to trample the rights of New Mexico’s law-abiding citizens. This move has left citizens and even members of her own party questioning the legality and moral grounding of such an anti-constitutional mandate. Classifying the bearing of arms as a health emergency is disingenuous and sets a dangerous precedent that allows tyrannical left-wing radicals to use COVID-style health emergencies to suspend even more of our civil liberties.

This attack to the Second Amendment applies to both open and concealed carry in numerous public places, from city sidewalks to recreational parks, a mandate the governor is claiming is tied to Albuquerque’s high violent crime rates. Gun ban violators face stiff penalties, including fines of up to $5,000.

Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen announces that he will not enforce what he rightfully calls an “unconstitutional” directive. “It’s unconstitutional, so there’s no way we can enforce that order,” Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen said during a news conference. “This ban does nothing to curb gun violence.”

Sheriff Allen claims the governor sprung her plans on officials just moments before her news conference, leaving him shocked and irritated. He plans to push lawmakers to call a special session to address violence in Albuquerque. “I have to turn my irritation and anger into solutions,” Allen said.

Within a day of the announcement, the governor’s order met with a barrage of federal lawsuits from gun rights groups looking to block the law from taking effect. GOP state lawmakers have responded with calls for impeachment, but the success of such proceedings hinges heavily on the support of Democrats controlling the Legislature.

“My constituents have reached out to me in droves, emailing and texting me that this is insane, this is horrifying, this is unconstitutional,” said Republican state Rep. John Block of Alamogordo, representing a conservative stronghold in southern New Mexico.

The head of the lobbying arm of the National Rifle Association, Randy Kozuch, issued a statement Sunday calling the order a “shocking” act of “administrative fiat.” 

Even the ACLU objected that the governor’s actions could lead to overzealous policing and infringe on privacy.

“This kind of approach leads to the over-policing of our communities, racial profiling, and increased misery in the lives of already marginalized people,” said Lalita Moskowitz, litigation manager for the ACLU of New Mexico. “The governor should be following evidence-based solutions such as meaningful diversion and violence intervention programs and addressing the root causes of violence.”

The governor’s stated motivation behind this egregious infringement on New Mexico residents’ rights is a recent spate of child shooting deaths, a tragic series of events that no one takes lightly. However, responding to criminal acts with blanket punitive measures against law-abiding citizens is not only an ineffective solution but one that goes against the principles of justice and individual rights.

The order also carries with it a highly invasive stipulation where even the transport of firearms to private locations such as gun ranges or stores necessitates using a trigger lock – in other words, criminals no longer have to fear the public fighting back! It is a mandate that not only hampers the rights of gun owners and stops them from being able to protect themselves but portrays them as criminals.

Gun Owners Fight Back!

Gun owners in New Mexico have jumped into action, taking to the streets of Albuquerque to voice their dissent peacefully. A showcase of the Second Amendment in action, citizens stood united against this attack on their rights.  

In the latest move to reinstate COVID restrictions and ramp up the fear campaign heading into election season, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has officially approved new COVID mRNA booster vaccines formulated by pharmaceutical giants Pfizer and Moderna. This new endorsement authorizes the administration of these vaccines to every American, including infants as young as six months, a decision shrouded in controversy given the absence of long-term testing to validate the efficacy of these injections against the virus and its so-called emerging variants.

What THE FDA is saying about these new mRNA Boosters, in their latest press release…

• Individuals 5 years of age and older regardless of previous vaccination are eligible to receive a single dose of an updated mRNA COVID-19 vaccine at least 2 months since the last dose of any COVID-19 vaccine. 
• Individuals 6 months through 4 years of age who have previously been vaccinated against COVID-19 are eligible to receive one or two doses of an updated mRNA COVID-19 vaccine (timing and number of doses to administer depends on the previous COVID-19 vaccine received). 
• Unvaccinated individuals 6 months through 4 years of age are eligible to receive three doses of the updated authorized Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine or two doses of the updated authorized Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine.
• Individuals who receive an updated mRNA COVID-19 vaccine may experience similar side effects as those reported by individuals who previously received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines as described in the respective prescribing information or fact sheets.
• The updated vaccines are expected to provide “good” protection against COVID-19 from the currently circulating variants. Barring the emergence of a markedly more virulent variant, the FDA anticipates that the composition of COVID-19 vaccines may need to be updated annually, as is done for the seasonal influenza vaccine. 
• The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will meet tomorrow (Sept. 12), to discuss clinical recommendations on who should receive an updated vaccine, as well as further considerations for specific populations such as immunocompromised and older individuals. 
• Manufacturers have publicly announced that the updated vaccines would be ready this fall, and the FDA anticipates that the updated vaccines will be available in the near future.

Despite the lack of concrete evidence substantiating the actual benefits of this latest big-pharma booster, the FDA appears to be unyieldingly pushing forward with this latest COVID vaccine rollout, in what many say is a campaign to transform the seasonal flu shot into an anticipated yearly COVID booster update. In fact, the FDA is busy promoting the idea of a tripledemic (flu, COVID-19, and RSV ), and has been busy hyping three vaccines that it now wants all Americans to get.

The FDA seem more eager to jump on the big-pharma, revenue-generating bandwagon than focusing on ensuring the actual health and well-being of Americans.

However, the average citizen appears to be at their wits’ end with this relentless barrage of COVID fearmongering. In an indication of the mounting frustration, almost 60% of Americans aged 65 and above chose to forego last year’s bivalent booster shot. Experts anticipate an even smaller turnout for the upcoming booster shots, something many fear could trigger a government overreach and the return of more mandates.

Coupled with the sudden reintroduction of mask mandates in schools nationwide, this recent announcement has left many preparing for a return of the economy-killing COVID protocols in the lead-up to the next election cycle.

As we reported last week, As America braces for the upcoming election season, President Joe Biden made headlines by strapping on a mask again, a day after four-time vaccinated First Lady Jill Biden tested positive for COVID-19. As we have been warning for weeks, moves are being made throughout the country to push another round of COVID lockdowns and this seems to be the latest signal that our government is gearing up for another oppressive round of COVID mandates.

Preparedness Resources:

In today’s digital age, the conveniences of modern technology have led many to neglect basic survival skills, deemed archaic and unnecessary. But what happens when your technology fails you, and you find yourself stranded in an unforgiving natural environment?

Let’s take a look at the know-how needed to survive and thrive when your outdoor adventure turns into a fight to survive.

We start with one of the most important aspects of survival: your mindset. Perhaps one of the most underemphasized aspects of survival is the mental state of the person trying to survive. Throughout history, man has endured the unthinkable. Whether it’s surviving the unthinkable conditions in Nazi German or surviving a shipwreck in one of the harshest environments in the world, The will to survive is often the key ingredient that determines whether someone lives or dies.

Man can live about forty days without food, about three days without water, about eight minutes without air, but only for one second without hope.

The following articles can help you understand the role of the mind in survival situations and help battle-harden your will to survive.

• The Will to Survive: Ernest Shackleton and the Crew of the Endurance: Perhaps one the most incredible survival stories ever told, the story of Ernest Shackleton and the crew of the Endurance shows how the will to survive can help people live through conditions that most would consider impossible.
• Mastering the Psychology of Survival – Really being prepared to survive, means being able to control your fears, your emotions and your ego.
• Cultivate a positive mental attitude . The ability to maintain a positive mental attitude during a survival situation is something that needs to be taken seriously.
• Mindful Preparation: Surviving Traumatic Events starts with Developing the Right Mindset. On most survival sites, the main focus is often on things like gear, survival skills, and emergency planning; while those things are extremely important and will make surviving a lot easier, there’s one thing that’s often overlooked that really is the key to survival: Mental Preparedness.

As Navy Seal Marcus Luttrell says, “Being afraid is a state of paralysis in which you can’t do anything.” Overcoming fear and panic is critical for survival. The human mind can be trained to handle stressful situations with focused breathing techniques, preparedness drills, and mental exercises designed to enhance one’s situational awareness and cognitive flexibility.

Now that we have talked about mindset, let’s look at another piece of the equation that we think is just as important: KNOWLEDGE. Knowledge if the key to survival; without it, all the fancy gear in the world is worth jack shit!

But knowledge means not only reading books and survival websites but getting out there and putting what you’ve read to use in a controlled environment. The old saying, “Practice makes perfect,” is the key to turning your knowledge into an asset once things go bad.

Building a Shelter: The Critical Role of Shelter in Staying Alive Outdoors

Extreme weather conditions like rain, snow, sun, and wind can be life-threatening. A well-built shelter can offer protection from the elements, helping to regulate body temperature and reduce the risk of hypothermia or heatstroke.

A good shelter can also:

• Defend against Wildlife Threats: A secure shelter can offer protection from wildlife, like predators and insects.
• Rest and Recovery: Physical and mental exhaustion can set in quickly in survival situations. A shelter offers a place to rest, sleep, and recover, which is critical for maintaining your energy levels and mindset.
• Emotional Well-being: Building a shelter can provide a psychological boost. The feeling of having a ‘home base’ in a stressful environment can be comforting and help imrove mental health, supporting longer-term survival.
• Concentration of Resources: Having a shelter allows you to establish a base of operations to focus on other survival tasks such as gathering food, treating water, and planning for rescue or travel.

Wilderness Survival Shelter Tips

Choose Your Location Wisely

Location is everything when it comes to building a wilderness shelter. Higher ground is generally safer as it’s less prone to flooding and may provide a vantage point for spotting rescue teams. However, remember that higher altitudes can also mean colder temperatures. Look for areas that offer protection from the wind and weather, and keep an eye out for natural shelters like caves or large boulders and trees that can be used to build off of.

Building Techniques: The Lean-To and Beyond

The lean-to is one of the simplest shelters you can construct. Prop a long branch against a tree and lay smaller branches against it at an angle. You can then insulate your shelter with leaves, moss, or any other insulating material you can find. But remember, the lean-to is just one option. You might also consider more advanced shelters like debris huts or even snow shelters if you find yourself in a winter survival scenario.

• Light Hiking – Tarp Shelters:  good tarp is both lighter and cheaper than the even the lightest of tents and has a number of advantages that make it much more attractive to light backpackers.
• 6 Wilderness Survival Shelters: Check out these real-world Survival Shelters; they will give you a good idea of what’s possible and can give you a good starting point to go out there and practice.

The Vital Role of Fire

Fire is much more than just a heat source; it’s also a morale booster, a means to purify water, and a way to signal for help. One of the most important skills for an outdoorsman or survivalist to master is the art of building fires. 

You should always have at least two methods of starting a fire with you. Here is some gear you should think about keeping in your wilderness pack.

While traditional fire-starting tools like flint and steel or waterproof matches can be great options, having a backup is always a good idea. Lighters, for instance, make things much easier during a stressful situation.

A survival lighter should be weatherproof, windproof and waterproof; it should also be made of high-quality materials that will ensure it lasts and works when you really need it. Keep in mind, the environments that you are going to be starting fires in is an important consideration when choosing which type of lighter to go with.

How to Find Water in the Wilderness

Identifying and Accessing Freshwater Sources

Finding water is a priority during wilderness expeditions, given that humans can only survive for three days without it. How do you go about finding water in the wild? Initially, your senses are your primary tool. A useful strategy is to scout the environment thoroughly. Generally, water runs downhill, so, following valleys and other low ground can often lead to water.

It is essential to identify sources that are likely to offer clean water, such as mountain streams and underground reservoirs. However, not all freshwater is safe to drink; some may contain harmful contaminants. That’s why you should always purify the water you find.

Water Collection Methods

• Natural Water Bodies: Start with obvious sources like streams, rivers, and lakes. Flowing water in small streams is your best bet, followed by rivers and lakes. Observing animal behavior and their paths might lead you to these sources.
• Rainwater: Collecting rainwater is a relatively safe method to secure drinkable water. It can be done using available containers or by setting up a poncho or a tarp to collect the rain.
• Dew: You can collect heavy morning dew using absorbent clothes or fine grass. Walk through meadows early in the morning to gather dew and wring out the water.
• Vegetation: Utilize fruits, vegetables, and plants, which naturally store water. Smash them to extract liquid, being careful to avoid poisonous plants.

Other Water Collection Techniques

• Plant Transpiration: This method involves trapping the moisture plants release using a bag. The moisture collected can be consumed, but avoid using this technique on poisonous plants.
• Tree Crotches and Rock Crevices: Collect water accumulated in tree crotches and rock crevices using a cloth to absorb the moisture and then wring it out.
• Underground Still: Creating an underground still can offer a reliable water source. The setup involves a container, clear plastic sheeting, and a digging tool, among other things, and it leverages the moisture in the ground and the sun’s heat to produce condensation.

Environment-Specific Tips

• Cold and Snowy Regions: In such areas, melting snow and ice can provide water. However, always melt and purify this water before consuming it to avoid lowering your body temperature.
• Desert Region: In arid environments, digging wells in damp areas or collecting condensation from metal surfaces are viable options. Look for trees such as cottonwoods, sycamores, willows or tamarisks – these are areas with a water source or where water may accumulate.

An adult can survive up to three weeks without food but only three days without water. That is why finding a safe water source should be one of your top concerns in a survival situation.

Best Methods to Purify Water in the Wild

Boiling is the safest and most effective method to purify water, but if this is not possible, other methods like filtration and chemical purification can be considered. Natural sources like rainwater, snow, and dew can also be relatively safe to consume.

You may need to rely on unconventional water sources in more challenging situations. Certain cacti and vines can yield drinkable water when cut open or wrung out. Be cautious, however, as not all plants offer safe hydration; some may even be poisonous.

In my opinion, a water filter is one of you’re most important pieces of gear you can carry. Without water, your screwed; if you do find water, without proper filtration you still might be in trouble. 

Given that “knowledge is power,” education and preparation are your best allies in survival.

In unforgiving wilderness environments, the right knowledge can quite literally be a lifesaver. From knowing how to find and purify water to building a shelter with the natural resources available, every bit of knowledge carries enormous value.

• Enroll in Survival Courses: Courses such as those offered by former Special Forces officers or expert survival guides can provide not just theoretical knowledge but also practical training in bushcraft skills, first aid, and advanced navigation techniques.
• Basic Training: Most survival situations can be prevented or survived by learning the basics and then doing them over and over again. Yes there are certain skills that go beyond the basics, but the basics are the foundation that everything else is built upon.
• Good old fashion camping: Camping is a great way to discover how you and your family will do with limited resources, a lack of power, and hopefully without a bunch of tech gadgets. If you have kids, camping is a great way to introduce them to the idea of preparedness, in a way that will excite them and help them remember the lessons.

Some preparedness skills that you can practice while you’re out camping:

• Practice using a Signal Mirror – During this exercise, take the time to talk to your children about the importance of communication skills in the real-world.
• Learn how to Start a Fire – Take the time to practice making a fire with a variety of different methods. In a wilderness survival situation, knowing how to build and maintain a fire is probably one of the most important skills you can have.
• Learn how to Construct a Good Tarp Shelter – Even if you’re tent camping, or “roughing it” inside your luxury RV, take the time to practice making a couple of different tarp shelters. They’re fun to make, and will give you one extra skill to add to your preparedness arsenal.
• Practice Making Survival Traps and Snares – During a long-term survival situation, one of the biggest challenges you’re going to face is finding and procuring food. Learning how to build traps and snares is a skill that one day could come in very handy.

When venturing into the wilderness for hiking, backpacking, or any outdoor adventure, the importance of your gear cannot be overstated. However, it’s not merely about owning cutting-edge gadgets or high-end equipment. The real art lies in choosing gear that aligns with your specific trip, and that process begins well before you set foot outside. Thoughtful pre-trip planning is the cornerstone for ensuring your journey is not just enjoyable but also safe.

Selecting the right equipment is far from arbitrary; it involves a thorough assessment of the environmental conditions and challenges that may lie ahead. Start with essentials like a reliable backpack, sturdy hiking boots, and weather-appropriate clothing. Consider the duration of your trip, the availability of water sources, and the potential need for shelter. Do you need a tent, sleeping bag, or camp stove? Are trekking poles, a GPS device, or a first aid kit necessary for your trip? Tailor your gear list to meet the specific requirements of your adventure.

Prioritize essentials like a good-quality knife, a multi-tool, a topographic map, and a compass. Additional items like a whistle for signaling, a first aid kit, and lightweight food items are also important.

The SAS Survival Handbook by John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman: This classic wilderness survival guide is a comprehensive resource for outdoor enthusiasts. It covers various topics, including navigation, shelter building, firemaking, food procurement, first aid, and more. This book, written by a former SAS soldier, provides practical advice and techniques based on real-world survival experiences.

Wilderness Medicine: Beyond First Aid by William W. Forgey, M.D.: This book is a must-have for outdoor adventurers who want to be prepared for medical emergencies in remote wilderness settings. It covers essential medical knowledge and skills needed to handle injuries and illnesses in the wilderness, including assessment, treatment, and evacuation. Written by an experienced wilderness medicine expert, this book provides valuable information on managing medical emergencies in the backcountry.

The Backpacker’s Field Manual: A Comprehensive Guide to Mastering Backcountry Skills by Rick Curtis: This comprehensive guide is packed with practical advice on backcountry skills, including navigation, shelter building, water purification, food procurement, and more. It also covers essential topics such as risk management, trip planning, and emergency preparedness. This book, written by an experienced outdoor educator, provides essential information for backpackers and hikers looking to enhance their outdoor skills.

The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Backpacking and Hiking by Jason Stevenson: This beginner-friendly guide provides a comprehensive overview of backpacking and hiking, including trip planning, gear selection, navigation, camping skills, and wilderness safety. It covers various terrain and environments and provides practical tips and advice for enjoyable and safe outdoor adventures. This book is a great starting point for those new to backpacking and hiking.

The Ultimate Situational Survival Guide by Robert Richardson. While this might not be one you expect on a wilderness survival book list, we’ve encountered our fair share of backwoods methheads, pot growers, and complete psychopaths in areas where you might not expect them. This is a good and practical resource for outdoor enthusiasts who want to be prepared for unexpected situations, including encounters with criminals in the wilderness. This book covers various survival scenarios, including self-defense techniques, strategies for dealing with hostile individuals or groups, and ways to protect yourself and your belongings.

The Bushcraft Boxed Set: Bushcraft 101; Advanced Bushcraft; The Bushcraft Field Guide to Trapping, Gathering, & Cooking in the Wild; Bushcraft First Aid by Author: Dave Canterbury. This comprehensive boxed set by Dave Canterbury is a must-have for anyone interested in wilderness survival, bushcraft skills, and first aid in the wild. It is an incredible resource for outdoor adventurers who want to learn how to effectively survive and thrive in the wilderness and ensure they have the proper knowledge and skills to handle emergencies and unexpected situations.

In a world overwhelmingly driven by technology, it’s easy to underestimate the importance of basic survival skills. But these skills can make all the difference in a crisis. Whether you find yourself lost, stranded, or faced with unexpected challenges, equipping yourself with survival knowledge can turn a shitty situation into a story of resilience and survival. The wilderness may be unforgiving, but you can survive its fury with the right mindset, skills, and preparation.

Liberty Safe, the go-to brand for many American gun owners, has just shot a hole through the trust many conservatives have placed in them. Today, news broke that Liberty Safe willingly handed over an access code to the FBI for a safe owned by Nathan Hughes, an Arkansas man present at the J6 protest.

On August 30, 2023, the FBI raided Nathan Hughes’ home with the Liberty Safe provided access codes in hand. Not only did they open his safe, but they allegedly turned off his security cameras and held his girlfriend at gunpoint. While the FBI had a warrant to search Hughes’ property, sources say that no court order specifically instructed Liberty Safe to provide the access code. Yet, the company that has made millions claiming to be die-hard conservative, 2^nd amendment supporting patriots, rolled over and gave the codes to the FBI.

🚨 Last week, a friend of ours was raided by the feds over J6, his name is Nathan Hughes and he’s from Fayetteville, Arkansas. Nate was raided by the FBI and arrested at gun point. His girlfriend (who just had a miscarriage) was held at gun point and put in handcuffs. The FBI… pic.twitter.com/LOpMQ28eUJ

— Hodgetwins (@hodgetwins) September 5, 2023

But let’s be clear: a warrant for Hughes’ property is not a warrant for Liberty Safe to provide the access code to his safe. In doing so, they have bypassed a critical line of defense for Hughes and, by extension, for every gun owner who thought their Second Amendment rights were secure with a Liberty Safe.

So, does Liberty have the access code for every safe they sell?

Adding to the outrage is the unsettling revelation that Liberty Safe even had an access code to a customer’s safe to begin with. The entire premise of a personal safe is to provide an impenetrable layer of security. Gun owners count on the belief that they alone possess the unique combination that secures their firearms. By retaining access codes, Liberty Safe has not only compromised its customers’ security but also failed in its primary function as a safeguard of personal property. This raises questions about the fundamental integrity of the company’s products, suggesting that the so-called “safes” may not be so safe after all.

The Second Amendment safeguards an individual’s right to keep and bear arms, and secure storage is a significant part of gun ownership. By submitting to the FBI’s “request” without demanding a specific court order, Liberty Safe has effectively compromised the Second Amendment rights of its customers and potentially all gun owners.

Conservative gun owners are voicing their outrage on social media. Many are questioning the legality of Liberty Safe’s compliance with the FBI’s request, calling it a betrayal that deserves a boycott similar to the one facing Bud Light for its controversial partnership earlier this year. Critics rightly point out that Liberty Safe was under no legal obligation to hand over the code without a specific court order. Their willingness to comply with a mere “request” has thus proven shocking and unacceptable to their conservative customer base.

Reevaluating Trust in Liberty Safe

Trust is hard to earn but easy to lose. For many, Liberty Safe has permanently lost that trust. The company must answer for why they chose to give up an access code to a private citizen’s gun safe without a direct court order, essentially helping the federal goon squad and endangering the Second Amendment rights they claim to defend.

This betrayal should serve as a warning for gun owners everywhere. Your rights are only as secure as the companies and institutions that claim to protect them. In this case, Liberty Safe failed to guard not just the safe but the fundamental rights and trust of American gun owners.

UPDATE:

Liberty Safe Owned by Billion-Dollar Firm that Donates to Anti-2A Candidates?

In 2021, Liberty Safe underwent an ownership change when it was acquired by Monomoy Capital Partners. Monomoy, an East Coast investment firm, has shown a consistent pattern of donating to Democratic candidates.

An analysis of FEC reports obtained by Charlie Kirk reveals that the company has made contributions amounting to roughly $400,000 over the past ten election cycles. Some notable recipients of these donations include Democrats like:

• Raphael Warnock (GA)
• John Fetterman (PA)
• Mandela Barnes (WI)
• Mark Kelly (AZ)

It’s significant to mention that Liberty Safe’s current CEO, Justin Hillenbrand, isn’t just any executive. He was a founding partner of Monomoy and made a $4,600 donation to Obama for America.

For added context, especially relevant for those unfamiliar, Sen. Mark Kelly, one of the aforementioned donation recipients, is married to Gabbie Giffords.

The couple co-founded ‘Giffords,’ an anti-gun nonprofit with a mission to roll back the 2A rights of law-abiding gun owners.

Given these revelations, some consumers are expressing concerns and skepticism about the company’s recent decisions, particularly regarding its cooperation with the FBI.

Liberty Safe Owned by Billion-Dollar Firm that Donates to Anti-2A Candidates?

In 2021, Liberty Safe underwent an ownership change when it was acquired by Monomoy Capital Partners. Monomoy, an East Coast investment firm, has shown a consistent pattern of donating to Democratic candidates.

An analysis of FEC reports obtained by Charlie Kirk reveals that the company has made contributions amounting to roughly $400,000 over the past ten election cycles. Some notable recipients of these donations include Democrats like:

• Raphael Warnock (GA)
• John Fetterman (PA)
• Mandela Barnes (WI)
• Mark Kelly (AZ)

It’s significant to mention that Liberty Safe’s current CEO, Justin Hillenbrand, isn’t just any executive. He was a founding partner of Monomoy and made a $4,600 donation to Obama for America.

For added context, especially relevant for those unfamiliar, Sen. Mark Kelly, one of the aforementioned donation recipients, is married to Gabbie Giffords.

The couple co-founded ‘Giffords,’ an anti-gun nonprofit with a mission to roll back the 2A rights of law-abiding gun owners.

Given these revelations, some consumers are expressing concerns and skepticism about the company’s recent decisions, particularly regarding its cooperation with the FBI.

As America braces for the upcoming election season, President Joe Biden made headlines by strapping on a mask again, a day after four-time vaccinated First Lady Jill Biden tested positive for COVID-19. As we have been warning for weeks, moves are being made throughout the country to push another round of COVID lockdowns and this seems to be the latest signal that our government is gearing up for another oppressive round of COVID mandates.

The President, who tested negative for the virus – yeah, they are still pushing the testing scam —  said he would be masking indoors in line with CDC guidelines. Today’s news is already fueling speculation that federal officials are getting ready for another round of draconian “public health” measures, as White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters that they are in a “very good position” to deal with COVID-19 this fall.

The Return of Mask Mandates Across the Country

Mask mandates are cropping up all over the nation again. In New York City, officials have advised residents to wear masks in public as they claim the so-called latest new strain of COVID-19 threatens to spread. Even schools are reintroducing these mandates, with an elementary school in Maryland requiring third-graders to wear N95 masks.

n states like Kentucky and Texas, school districts are canceling classes after so-called outbreaks of COVID, the flu, and strep have been reported, sending students and staff home. Officials are claiming an intense uptick in COVID cases, while others cite additional concerns like strep throat, RSV, and stomach viruses

In Atlanta, Morris Brown College has implemented a two-week mask mandate, and California-based healthcare facility Kaiser Permanente has reinstated its mandate as well “amid an uptick in patients testing positive.” It’s as if we are back in 2020 and have already forgotten how destructive the government mandates were for regular people.

Last month, the White House started making a huge push to promote COVID boosters.

As if the situation isn’t bad enough, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the “High Priest of COVID cult,” has already started making his media rounds saying that masking might become more prevalent in the coming months, especially if there’s a surge in cases. Meanwhile, the media morons are seizing on the so-called “Pirola” variant, a new strain of COVID, to instill further fear and compliance among the public.

As election season looms, one can’t help but think that this is a politically convenient time for the Biden administration to clamp down again. The President’s latest actions and the renewed mask mandates around the country could very well be the precursor to another set of overreaching mandates that infringe upon our freedoms. And it’s not just about masks; it’s about the looming threat of lockdowns, business closures, and the economic destruction that comes with it.

And for those that think it can’t happen again, just look around to lemmings are already starting to mask up. The continuous brain washing is so bad, an people have been so beaten down, that as we reported earlier this week people have actually fled into the wilderness trying to escape COVID — unfortunately one family was just found dead in the mountains from malnutrition and hypothermia after they let the fear drive them deep into the mountains of Colorado.

So, as President Biden puts his mask back on, the American people must ask themselves: is this just the beginning of another round of freedom-killing mandates? Given the past actions of this administration and the growing calls for more restrictions, it’s a question we can’t afford to ignore.

Back in May we started to report on how this was far from over. Back then, the World Health Organization and Bill Gates feverishly attempted to push the media to start reporting that the Next Pandemic would be ‘More Deadly’ than COVID.

Last week, FEMA announced plans to test the Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alerts on October 4th, sending a message to virtually every cellphone, TV, and radio in the United States. The test message will be sent to your phone as long as it’s switched on and within range of an active cell tower. One can’t help but wonder if this nationwide alert is a precursor to another round of economy-killing COVID lockdowns or election season chaos.

This never-ending cycle of alarm bells and restrictions is not just an attack on our freedom but a betrayal of everything this country once stood for. Whether it’s the never-ending push for the next pandemic or trying to convince the world that global warming is going to kill everyone, it’s time people wake the hell up and start to question the narratives being fed to us and demand that our liberties are respected. Since we know that isn’t going to happen, I guess it’s time to double check the preparedness stocks and get ready for another round of idiocy and media-induced chaos!

Preparedness Resources:

On October 4th, FEMA plans to test the Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alerts, sending a message to virtually every cellphone, TV, and radio in the United States. While we are 100% on board with being prepared, with D.C’s track record, one has to wonder if this is really about public safety. In fact, the latest test has many asking if this is just another attempt to control, invade of privacy, and dominate every aspect of our lives.

The test message will be sent to your phone as long as it’s switched on and within range of an active cell tower. That’s right; you don’t even have the choice to opt-out. FEMA proudly announced that the message will come in either English or Spanish, depending on your phone’s language settings, and will be accompanied by a “unique tone and vibration.” Now, the government is not only invading our digital space but also making sure we can’t ignore their unwelcome interruption.

The one-minute test will also take over your TVs and radios with an alert sound, followed by the message: “This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System.”

As you might expect, the government spin on this is all about preparedness. They claim it’s about ensuring the “readiness of the emergency alert infrastructure” and ensuring they can reach us all in times of crisis. But we’ve heard these assurances before, and if history is any guide, the government’s real agenda is usually not so straightforward.

Is this test truly about public safety, or is it another attempt by the federal government to instill fear and anxiety in Americans? One can’t help but wonder if this nationwide alert is a precursor to another round of economy-killing COVID lockdowns or election season chaos. It’s hardly a stretch to imagine, given the lengths to which the government has gone to control the narrative and manipulate the public.

After the disaster in Maui and how COVID was used as a pretext to obliterate our economy and erode our civil liberties, should we trust the government to flood our personal devices with “emergency” messages? It’s almost laughable to think that the same government that failed so miserably in these other disasters now wants us to believe it is acting in our best interest.

Preparing for emergencies is essential, but the government is the last group we should rely on for that. Their track record proves that it rarely benefits people when they get involved. Instead, it often bolsters their power at the expense of our freedoms.

As we have said for years, and after we reminded the public after the failed response in Maui – YOU ARE YOUR OWN FIRST RESPONDER!!! If you’re waiting on the government to save you, you’re waiting on a death sentence!

Preparedness Resources:

We get a lot of questions about what type of gear we keep in our bug out bags. So we wanted to share one of our latest budget-conscious builds with out readers. The latest OFFGRID Survival Budget Bug Out Bag is made up of gear that we have personally used and recommend for those who are putting together a bugout bag on a budget.

Falko Tactical Backpack

The Falko Tactical Backpack is obviously a knock-off, but tfor those looking for a budget bag this is one of the best we found at this price point — in fact, it’s about a quarter of the price of similar bags from brands like 5.11.

Buy it on Amazon

The main gear in our budget bugout bag covers our main needs: shelter, water, emergency coms, and a good knife.

KALINCO Tarp Tent

For our shelter, we choose a budget tarp tent for emergency situations where we may need to make a quick improvised shelter to keep us protected from bad weather or the sun. For information on how to use a tarp tent, check out our article on light-hiking tarp setups.

Buy it on Amazon

Bambaw 32 oz Water Bottle

The Bambaw 32 oz Water Bottle is a single wall stainless steal bottle that can be used to both carry water and sterilize water out in the wilderness. Single Wall Stainless steal bottles can be thrown over a campfire to purify water and is something that should be in any good bugout bag. This is a knock-off version of the Klean Kanteen and is about half the price.

Buy it on Amazon

Morakniv Companion 

The Morakniv Companion Sandvik Stainless Steel Fixed-Blade Knife may be a budget knife, but this thing more than stacks up to knives selling for 10x what this sells for. In fact, I carry quite a few of these as everything from my go-to EDC to my main knife in my fishing bags.

Buy it on Amazon

Baofeng UV-5R

The Baofeng UV-5R is about as budget friendly as it gets when it comes to ham radio and emergency communication gear. While we love our Yaesu radios, you can literally buy 10 of these for the same price as 1 Yaesu.

Buy it on Amazon

The Rest of the Gear…

Bic Lighters

In a survival situation, a good lighter will start far more fires than the matches you’ll find in most commercial kits.

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Ferro Rods

I do like having a backup for some gear, and this is one of the items we carry as a backup to the bic lighters.

Buy it on Amazon

Mylar Emergency Blankets

This is another cheap item that we try to buy in bulk. I keep one in each bugout bag and throw the rest in fishing/hunting bags and vehicles kits.

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Lifestraw

This is another one of those important backup items I like to keep in my bags. The Stainless steel water bottles are great, but there are times where you may not be able to start a fire and these are great on the go!

Buy it on Amazon

All-Purpose Emergency First Aid Kit

I do like building out my own kits, but if you are in a hury and looking for something quick, cheap and easy to pack then this is a great budget kit!

Buy it on Amazon

550 Paracord

This is another one of those bulk buys that we purchase and then split it up between our bags. From hunting and fishing uses to building survival shelters and first aid, Paracord is an important multi-purpose item that every bag should have!

Buy it on Amazon

In the end, it really doesn’t matter what gear you pack if you haven’t obtained the knowledge you need to use it and survive! So please, don’t jut pack the bag and forget it, thinking you have everything you need when the shit hits the fan!

Take the time to consider where to go, what to take, how to survive during crisis situations, and why bug out bags are a crucial part of your plan. Here are some articles that can help.

DISCLAIMER – I never advocate doing anything illegal and always try to stay within the legal limits of the law. This article is for informational and research purposes only and is to not be taken as advice of any kind – the Reader accepts all responsibility for trying/attempting anything read here.

Since the advent of the National Weather Service (NWS) there is no excuse for being blind-sided by a hurricane because they start giving advisories many days in advance of any storm approaching anywhere near US coastlines beginning from the mundane, “Hey guys, there’s a storm possibly headed our way.” to the more serious, “Stock up and/or get out!” all the way to, “You should have left yesterday. Good luck.” However, as in Hurricane Katrina, due to ignorance, arrogance, personal negligence, entitlement/privilege, or some other un-stated BS reason, some groups didn’t heed the warnings and paid the price – some with their lives. There are two last resort and rarely discussed evacuation sources, however both are very illegal: the Railroad and Intracoastal Waterway.

Railroads crisscross our country and have their own police force but still fall under the jurisdiction of state and federal laws, not to mention Homeland Security in some areas. On maps the railroads are marked by dashed lines (see below).

If forced to bug out on foot, I would attempt to find a railroad with a train on a side track and wait if it’s safe. A side track is where one train will pull off the main line, stop, and let a faster or more important train pass – it’s much safer to climb on a train that is stopped than one rolling down the tracks. Most of the railroads in the south are built on berms and are above the surrounding countryside giving some small protection from flood waters. A lot of the railroads travel near major highways and are fairly easy to find – they are even shown on most roadmaps.

The railroads don’t use cabooses any longer so finding a good spot to ride is more difficult. Finding an unlocked idling engine might be a good choice as long as you don’t tamper with the controls. A side benefit is if the engine is idling, you have a fantastic source to charge your phone and other devices, use the onboard heaters, fans, A/C if available), etc. while out of the harsh elements. The problem begins when the crew returns and finds you in the engine compartment; maybe they’ll be sympathetic to your survival plight if you didn’t damage anything (totally their choice here but realize if caught, you may be held and face charges for trespassing but at least you survived the storm alive. Boxcars are usually locked and if lucky to find an open one you need to be sure no one can secure or lock you inside, plus you need to be on alert for others on the move. Flatcars and tank cars are not a good choice because they are no very few places on them to offer protection from the weather and also be out  of sight. The ends of Hopper cars appear to be the best choice for a concealed and weather free ride.

Advice if hopping a train: be forewarned it’s against the law to hop any train and you can be arrested and charged with multiple state and federal criminal offences – if you do it’s at your own risk, stay away from others, don’t start a fire on any type of rail car, stay as hidden and packed as possible in case you have to move out quickly, try to get on the train when it’s stopped, don’t argue and fight with the railroad crews if they catch you; politeness might buy you a continued ride where rudeness will surely get you kicked off the train and possibly arrested, be aware some railroad police are armed and well-trained. (NOTE: If I’m telling you this information as an on-looker be advised RR police will probably know it and much more.)

The Intracoastal Waterway is a mostly inland east-west water route across the Gulf of Mexico.

Catching a fishing boat or a tug and barge out of the area is possible but demands extreme caution. Boat Captains and their crews are a notoriously close-knit group; we know as we’ve investigated both for and against them. These are the men and women that the sheriff calls when a search and rescue or search and recovery needs to be conducted due to their experience on the area waterways. Stowing away is against the law and you can be arrested and charged with multiple state and federal criminal offences. Most are nothing but nice but many of them live and work in the marsh and swamps and know how to cook and eat stuff that will eat you. If they like you, you’ve got friends for life. If you’re nosing around be very careful and don’t ever think you “fit in” or that they don’t know you’re an outsider. The Cajuns and other residents of the coastal areas are a very tight knit group that like to stay out of each other’s business and that’s the way they keep it. It’s best to let them learn to “like” you instead of forcing friendship and being all “faux-friendly.” And don’t forget you’re going to need mosquito spray. Lots of it.

There are many different types of boats in southern waterways and on the Intracoastal Waterway. The hard part is getting on a boat (tug, barge, etc.) and staying there undetected and would not be worth the effort if caught. Bear in mind, the Intracoastal Waterway is through mostly marsh, swamps, gators, and other things that can eat you or at minimum hinder your progress if thrown off the boat – you’ve been warned to be nice. Boats range in size from small fishing boats to large party/house boats, offshore rig supply boats, tugs and barges.

Always treat a man’s boat as his home because it is part-time. Never enter onto a man’s boat uninvited or unannounced. Always ask for and wait for permission. There are much bigger ships but there under the supervision of the US Navy, Coast Guard, Homeland Security, and other US government agencies so I’d avoid them at all costs if you wish to remain a free man.

We’ve installed Uniden scanners in the truck and used handhelds when on foot for many years. The railroad and maritime frequencies have always provided entertainment and information. We’re retired and no longer work in the coastal areas but do visit there occasionally. While we’re there if a storm is forecast for the area, believe me we’re topping off the fuel tanks, replenishing any supplies we’ve used, and heading out to the Village of Elsewhere well before the evacuation traffic, food, and fuel rationing begin.

Jim Jones

Editors Note: As Jim has noted multiple times, the article is theoretical and not something we advise doing do to legal and safety concerns. That being said, we do like the idea of using old rail lines as bugout routes out of town — in fact, many of the nation’s old railroad tracks can legally be used for hiking (or bugging out during an emergency). A great resource for this is the maps and books by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy.

Also, If you do live near one of these waterways a good fishing kayak or emergency boat may be something you want to think about adding to your bugout planning and gear.