Tag: education

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How Will World War III Destroy Our Way Of Life?

World War III

World War III would drastically change daily life. Here’s how:

  • Global Disruption: The world economy would likely collapse. Trade routes would close, causing shortages of basic goods.
  • Security Threats: You could face immediate threats to personal safety. Cities could become battlegrounds, and survival might depend on where you are.
  • Communication Breakdown: Technology could be targeted. Internet, phone, and TV services might stop, cutting you off from the world.
  • Political Shifts: New alliances would form. Countries may change leaders, and the global power structure could shift.
  • Cultural Impact: Millions of lives would be lost. Communities could be torn apart, leading to mass displacement.
  • Resource Scarcity: Access to food, water, and medical supplies would become a struggle. The basics of life could be in short supply.

How prepared are you for such challenges? What would you do if everyday comforts disappeared overnight?

Preparing for the impacts of World War III requires practical steps. Here’s how you can start:

Build an Emergency Kit

  • Food: Store at least a 3-month supply of non-perishable items like canned goods, freeze-dried meals, and high-calorie snacks.
  • Water: Have at least one gallon of water per person daily for at least three days.
  • First Aid: Include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and prescription medications.
  • Tools: A multi-tool, flashlight, spare batteries, duct tape, and a portable stove for cooking.
  • Sanitation: Stock toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and trash bags for hygiene.
  • Personal items: Keep extra clothing, blankets, and items like a manual can opener.

Learn Survival Skills

  • Water Purification: Learn how to filter and purify water using methods like boiling or water purification tablets.
  • Fire Starting: Practice making fires without matches, using tools like a fire starter, flint, or magnesium stick.
  • Basic First Aid: Take a first aid course. Know how to treat injuries, perform CPR, and manage basic health emergencies.
  • Navigation: Learn how to use a map and compass in case GPS services are unavailable.

Create a Communication Plan

  • Designate Meeting Points: Choose several places where your family can meet in case of evacuation.
  • Alternative Communication Methods: If phone networks go down, establish a way to contact loved ones, such as using radios or setting up a message system.
  • Family Roles: Assign specific responsibilities to each family member so everyone knows what to do in an emergency.

Stay Informed

  • News Sources: Follow trusted sources for reliable updates on the global situation. Radios or satellite phones can be useful if internet access is lost.
  • Alert Systems: Set up alerts for your area, like weather warnings or local emergency notifications.
  • Monitor Tensions: Pay attention to global news, especially regarding military actions or diplomatic changes.

Secure Your Home

  • Reinforce Entry Points: Strengthen doors, windows, and locks to make your home more secure from intruders.
  • Create Safe Rooms: Designate a safe space in your home where family members can gather if there’s a threat.
  • Escape Routes: Know multiple ways to evacuate your area, and keep a map of safe routes to your designated meeting points.

Consider Self-Sufficiency

  • Grow Your Own Food: Start a small garden to grow vegetables, fruits, and herbs. It will help you reduce your dependence on grocery stores.
  • Alternative Power: Invest in solar panels or a generator to ensure you have access to power if electricity is disrupted.
  • Barter and Trade: Develop skills in areas such as food preservation, carpentry, or animal care that can be traded for resources.

Build a Support Network

  • Local Community: Connect with neighbors and nearby families. Sharing resources and skills can make survival easier in a crisis.
  • Group Plans: Establish mutual aid agreements with others. For example, if someone has medical knowledge, you might be able to offer food in exchange for care.
  • Stay Flexible: Prepare to adapt quickly. Being part of a network gives you options if your plans change or resources run low.

Do you feel prepared for each of these areas? What would you focus on first to get ready?

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

These practices ensure that you and your loved ones are better prepared to handle emergencies effectively. For safety and preparedness, it’s always better to be proactive than reactive.

Stop The Bleed

Stop The Bleed

The “Stop the Bleed” course is designed to teach individuals how to respond to bleeding emergencies effectively. It’s a crucial skill set for both everyday situations and emergencies, helping to control severe bleeding until professional medical help arrives. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from the course:

Course Objectives:

Recognize Bleeding:

  • Understand the types of bleeding (arterial, venous, capillary) and how to identify severe bleeding.

    Control Bleeding:

  • Apply Direct Pressure: Learn how to use cloths or bandages to apply pressure directly to the wound.
  • Use Tourniquets: Understand when and how to apply a tourniquet to control severe arterial bleeding from limbs.
  • Pack Wounds: For severe bleeding that doesn’t respond to direct pressure, learn how to pack the wound with gauze to control bleeding.

    Manage Shock:

  • Recognize signs of shock (e.g., pale skin, rapid pulse) and learn how to manage it by keeping the person calm and comfortable, and elevating their legs if possible.

    Hands-On Practice:

  • Practice techniques using realistic scenarios and mannequins to gain confidence and skill in controlling bleeding.

Course Content:

Introduction to Bleeding:

    • Overview of anatomy related to bleeding.
    • Discussion on how bleeding can be life-threatening.

First Aid Techniques:

    • Detailed instructions on how to apply direct pressure, use tourniquets, and pack wounds.
    • Demonstration of proper techniques and tools.

Scenario Practice:

    • Hands-on practice with simulations to apply learned skills in a controlled environment.

Review and Certification:

    • Recap of key points and techniques.
    • Certification or acknowledgment of participation (if applicable).

How to Take the Course:

Prepare for the Course:

    • Wear comfortable clothing and be prepared to participate in hands-on activities.

Utilize Resources:

    • After completing the course, review the materials provided and practice techniques regularly to keep your skills sharp.

Importance:

Save Lives:

    • Effective bleeding control can be the difference between life and death in emergencies.

Boost Confidence:

    • Knowing what to do in a bleeding emergency helps you act quickly and calmly.

Community Impact:

    • Being trained empowers you to assist others in need, potentially saving lives in critical situations.

The “Stop the Bleed” course is an invaluable skill set that equips you to handle severe bleeding emergencies effectively and confidently.

This course is two hours in length. All students will receive a certificate of participation upon completion of the course. The class is taught by an experienced CPR/AED First Aid and Advanced Bleeding Control instructor. Parking is free. Class Minimum: 4 students

Stop The Bleed

Stop The Bleed

The “Stop the Bleed” course is designed to teach individuals how to respond to bleeding emergencies effectively. It’s a crucial skill set for both everyday situations and emergencies, helping to control severe bleeding until professional medical help arrives. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from the course:

Course Objectives:

Recognize Bleeding:

  • Understand the types of bleeding (arterial, venous, capillary) and how to identify severe bleeding.

    Control Bleeding:

  • Apply Direct Pressure: Learn how to use cloths or bandages to apply pressure directly to the wound.
  • Use Tourniquets: Understand when and how to apply a tourniquet to control severe arterial bleeding from limbs.
  • Pack Wounds: For severe bleeding that doesn’t respond to direct pressure, learn how to pack the wound with gauze to control bleeding.

    Manage Shock:

  • Recognize signs of shock (e.g., pale skin, rapid pulse) and learn how to manage it by keeping the person calm and comfortable, and elevating their legs if possible.

    Hands-On Practice:

  • Practice techniques using realistic scenarios and mannequins to gain confidence and skill in controlling bleeding.

Course Content:

Introduction to Bleeding:

    • Overview of anatomy related to bleeding.
    • Discussion on how bleeding can be life-threatening.

First Aid Techniques:

    • Detailed instructions on how to apply direct pressure, use tourniquets, and pack wounds.
    • Demonstration of proper techniques and tools.

Scenario Practice:

    • Hands-on practice with simulations to apply learned skills in a controlled environment.

Review and Certification:

    • Recap of key points and techniques.
    • Certification or acknowledgment of participation (if applicable).

How to Take the Course:

Prepare for the Course:

    • Wear comfortable clothing and be prepared to participate in hands-on activities.

Utilize Resources:

    • After completing the course, review the materials provided and practice techniques regularly to keep your skills sharp.

Importance:

Save Lives:

    • Effective bleeding control can be the difference between life and death in emergencies.

Boost Confidence:

    • Knowing what to do in a bleeding emergency helps you act quickly and calmly.

Community Impact:

    • Being trained empowers you to assist others in need, potentially saving lives in critical situations.

The “Stop the Bleed” course is an invaluable skill set that equips you to handle severe bleeding emergencies effectively and confidently.

This course is two hours in length. All students will receive a certificate of participation upon completion of the course. The class is taught by an experienced CPR/AED First Aid and Advanced Bleeding Control instructor. Parking is free. Class Minimum: 4 students

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Self-reliance is the foundation of a life well-lived

Self-reliance is the foundation of a life well-lived

It’s the ability to depend on yourself for your physical and emotional needs rather than relying on others or external systems. In a world that constantly encourages dependency—whether on technology, consumer goods, or the validation of others—self-reliance is a skill that brings true freedom and fulfillment.

Let’s explore what self-reliance means, its significance, and why it’s more relevant today than ever. Understanding these core principles will set the stage for your journey toward greater independence and resilience.

What Is Self-Reliance?

At its core, self-reliance means having the ability and confidence to care for your needs. It’s about being independent in your actions and decisions, not relying on others for validation, approval, or support.

Self-reliance is not about isolation or refusing help when necessary. Instead, it’s about being self-sufficient, adaptable, and resourceful enough to handle life’s challenges without feeling overwhelmed or helpless.

In practical terms, self-reliance involves:

  • Emotional independence: Managing your feelings, thoughts, and reactions healthily without constantly seeking approval or reassurance from others.
  • Financial independence: Ensuring you can support yourself financially, with enough security to handle unexpected challenges.
  • Physical independence: Caring for your physical needs—whether it’s maintaining your health, repairing things around the house, or growing your own food.
  • Mental and intellectual independence: Cultivating critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills so external pressures or opinions do not overly influence you.

Why Self-Reliance Matters

Self-reliance is crucial for many reasons, both practical and philosophical. Let’s break down some of the key benefits of cultivating this skill:

Freedom and Control

  • The more self-reliant you are, the less control others or external factors have over your life. Financial independence, for example, allows you to make choices based on your values, not based on monetary constraints.
  • Emotional independence gives you the strength to withstand life’s inevitable setbacks and challenges without relying on someone else for reassurance or comfort.

    Resilience in the Face of Adversity
  • Life is full of uncertainty. Being self-reliant helps you bounce back when things go wrong, from financial hardships to personal loss. When you’re capable of managing your own needs, you’re less likely to be crushed by circumstances beyond your control.

    Personal Growth and Empowerment
  • Self-reliance fosters a growth mindset. It encourages you to continuously improve, learn new skills, and take responsibility for your life and actions. When you’re reliant on yourself, you become the creator of your own destiny rather than a passive participant in someone else’s plan.

    Living According to Your Values
  • When you depend on others or societal systems to fulfill your needs, you may be forced to compromise on your values to conform. However, self-reliance allows you to create a life that aligns with your deepest principles and beliefs without being swayed by outside influences.

The Pillars of Self-Reliance

To become truly self-reliant, you must build up several key areas in your life. These pillars will help guide you toward independence and autonomy in a sustainable way:

Emotional Independence

Emotional independence is managing your emotions without excessive reliance on external validation. It’s about handling stress, disappointment, joy, and sadness without depending on others to fix or manage your emotional state.

Healthy emotional independence allows you to stay grounded in your values and decisions, regardless of the opinions or actions of those around you.

How to Build Emotional Independence:

  • Practice mindfulness and emotional regulation techniques, like journaling or meditation.
    • Learn to cope with discomfort by confronting your fears and negative emotions instead of avoiding or suppressing them.
  • Cultivate self-compassion and self-acceptance so that you do not base your worth on the approval of others.

Financial Independence

Financial independence is one of the most practical and essential aspects of self-reliance. It means you can support yourself and make decisions without being tied to the financial expectations or limitations of others.

Achieving financial independence involves budgeting, saving, investing, and growing your wealth over time. It’s not just about how much money you have but how well you manage and plan for your financial future.

How to Build Financial Independence:

  • Track your spending and create a budget that prioritizes savings and long-term goals.
    • Eliminate debt, especially high-interest debt like credit cards.
  • Build multiple income streams through investing or side hustles to reduce reliance on a single paycheck.

Physical Independence

Physical self-reliance means caring for your body, living space, and immediate environment. It’s about knowing how to grow your own food, fix things around the house, and stay healthy without relying on outside help.

Learning basic physical skills, such as cooking, gardening, cleaning, and repairing items, gives you the tools to manage your daily life more effectively.

How to Build Physical Independence:

  • Start a garden, learn to cook from scratch, and invest in DIY home repair tools.
    • Establish a consistent exercise routine and prioritize your physical health through healthy eating, adequate sleep, and regular activity.
  • Educate yourself on basic survival skills, such as emergency first-aid, home maintenance, and budgeting for household needs.

Mental and Intellectual Independence

Mental self-reliance means thinking critically, making decisions based on your judgment, and learning independently. It’s the ability to seek knowledge and insights without constantly depending on others to provide them.

Intellectual independence involves developing your beliefs, values, and understanding of the world. It’s about not merely accepting the ideas and opinions of others but examining them critically and forming your own conclusions.

How to Build Intellectual Independence:

  • Read books on various topics, especially those that challenge your current worldview.
    • Practice critical thinking by questioning assumptions, considering different perspectives, and being open to changing your mind.
  • Develop the habit of lifelong learning through courses, seminars, and engaging in thoughtful conversations.

Self-Reliance vs. Isolation

It’s important to note that self-reliance is not the same as isolation. While becoming self-reliant means reducing your dependency on others for survival, it doesn’t mean cutting off all connections. Humans are inherently social creatures, and relationships and community are still important aspects of life. True self-reliance is about balance, being capable of standing on your own two feet, and recognizing when collaboration and support from others are necessary.

The Road to Self-Reliance: Starting Your Journey

Self-reliance is not something that happens overnight. It is a process of consistent learning, unlearning, and personal development. Each step you take toward emotional, financial, physical, and intellectual independence strengthens your ability to navigate life on your own terms.

Remember, becoming self-reliant is a marathon, not a sprint. You can build the foundation for a truly independent and empowered life by taking daily small, deliberate actions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Self-reliance is the ability to depend on yourself for your needs, from emotions to finances.
  • It is essential for freedom, resilience, and personal growth.
  • The pillars of self-reliance include emotional, financial, physical, and intellectual independence.
  • Self-reliance is about balance; it doesn’t mean isolating yourself but rather learning to handle life’s challenges without over-dependence on others.

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

These practices ensure you and your loved ones are better prepared to handle emergencies effectively. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive for safety and preparedness.

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Pathways To Self-Reliance: How To Become Independent

self-reliance

In today’s fast-paced and complex world, it is essential to cultivate a sense of self-reliance – the ability to rely on oneself rather than others to meet one’s needs.

The benefits of self-reliance, including increased confidence, reduced stress, and improved overall well-being

  • Increased Confidence: When you are self-reliant, you develop a sense of confidence and self-assurance. You know you can handle challenges and overcome obstacles, boosting your self-esteem and overall well-being.
  • Improved Problem-Solving Skills: Self-reliance requires thinking critically and developing creative solutions to problems. This helps you develop problem-solving skills, which are essential in all areas of life.
  • Reduced Stress: When you are self-reliant, you are less likely to feel stressed and anxious. You know you can handle challenges and make decisions without relying on others, reducing your stress levels.
  • Increased Autonomy: Self-reliance allows you to make your own decisions and take control of your life. You are no longer dependent on others for your happiness and well-being.
  • Better Time Management: Self-reliance requires prioritizing your tasks and managing your time effectively. This helps you become more productive and efficient in your daily life.
  • Improved Resilience: When you are self-reliant, you are better equipped to handle setbacks and failures. You know that you can bounce back from adversity and continue moving forward.
  • Enhanced Creativity: Self-reliance encourages creativity and innovation. When you are not limited by the constraints of others, you are free to think outside the box and come up with new and innovative solutions.
  • Better Decision-Making: Self-reliance requires you to make decisions based on your own values and principles. This helps you develop better decision-making skills and become more confident in your choices.
  • Increased Sense of Purpose: Self-reliance gives you a sense of purpose and direction. You know you are working towards your goals and achieving your desired outcomes.
  • Improved Relationships: Self-reliance can actually improve your relationships with others. When you are confident and self-assured, you are more likely to build stronger and more meaningful relationships with others.
  • Reduced Dependence on Others: Self-reliance reduces your dependence on others for your happiness and well-being. You are no longer reliant on others for your sense of purpose and fulfillment.
  • Increased Self-Awareness: Self-reliance requires a better understanding of yourself and your strengths and weaknesses. This helps you become more self-aware and better equipped to make decisions that align with your values and goals.

Self-reliance can profoundly impact your life, increasing confidence, reducing stress, and improving overall well-being. By developing self-reliance, you can become a more confident, capable, and resilient individual.

The consequences of relying too heavily on others, including decreased autonomy and increased vulnerability

Decreased Autonomy:

  • When you rely too heavily on others, you may feel like you’re losing control over your own life.
  • You may start to feel like you’re incapable of making decisions or taking care of yourself.
  • Decreased autonomy can lead to feelings of frustration, resentment, and powerlessness.

Increased Vulnerability:

  • When you rely too heavily on others, you may become more vulnerable to their opinions, emotions, and actions.
  • You may feel like you’re at the mercy of others and that they can easily manipulate or control you.
  • Increased vulnerability can lead to feelings of anxiety, fear, and uncertainty.

Other Consequences:

  • Loss of Personal Responsibility: When you rely too heavily on others, you may feel like you’re not responsible for your actions or decisions.
  • Dependence on Others: Relying too heavily on others can lead to a sense of dependence, damaging your self-esteem and confidence.
  • Lack of Self-Awareness: When you rely too heavily on others, you may not develop a strong sense of self-awareness, which is essential for personal growth and development.
  • Inability to Adapt: Relying too heavily on others can make it difficult for you to adapt to changes or challenges, as you may not have the skills or confidence to handle them on your own.
  • Feeling Trapped: When you rely too heavily on others, you may feel like you’re trapped in a situation or relationship that’s not fulfilling or healthy.
  • Lack of Personal Growth: Relying too heavily on others can stifle personal growth and development, as you may not be challenged to learn new skills or take on new responsibilities.

Examples of Relying Too Heavily on Others:

  • Financial Dependence: Relying too heavily on others for financial support can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and resentment.
  • Emotional Dependence: Relying too heavily on others for emotional support can lead to feelings of anxiety, fear, and uncertainty.
  • Physical Dependence: Relying too heavily on others for physical care or support can lead to feelings of vulnerability and dependence.

Breaking Free from Relying Too Heavily on Others:

  • Developing Self-Awareness: Take time to reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, and values to develop a stronger sense of self-awareness.
  • Building Self-Confidence: Focus on building your self-confidence by taking on new challenges and achieving small victories.
  • Setting Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries with others to maintain your autonomy and independence.
  • Seeking Support: Seek support from others and prioritize your needs and desires.
  • Practicing Self-Care: Prioritize self-care and take time for yourself to recharge and refocus.

By recognizing the consequences of relying too heavily on others, you can take steps to break free and develop a stronger sense of autonomy, self-awareness, and self-confidence.

Conclusion

Developing long-term self-reliance requires dedication, persistence, and patience. Remember to be kind to yourself, celebrate your progress, and stay committed to your goals. With time and effort, you will become a more confident, capable, and self-reliant individual.

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

These steps ensure you and your loved ones are better prepared to handle emergencies effectively. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive for safety and preparedness.

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The Rise of the Immortal Dictator: What Will AI Mean for Freedom and Government?

AI

John & Nisha Whitehead January 29, 2025

“If one company or small group of people manages to develop godlike digital superintelligence, they could take over the world. At least when there’s an evil dictator, that human is going to die. But for an AI, there would be no death. It would live forever. And then you’d have an immortal dictator from which we can never escape.”—Elon Musk (2018)

The Deep State is about to go turbocharged.

While the news media fixates on the extent to which Project 2025 may be the Trump Administration’s playbook for locking down the nation, there is a more subversive power play taking place under cover of Trump’s unique brand of circus politics.

Take a closer look at what’s unfolding, and you will find that all appearances to the contrary, Trump isn’t planning to do away with the Deep State. Rather, he was hired by the Deep State to usher in the golden age of AI.

Get ready for Surveillance State 2.0.

To achieve this turbocharged surveillance state, the government is turning to its most powerful weapon yet: artificial intelligence. AI, with its ability to learn, adapt, and operate at speeds unimaginable to humans, is poised to become the engine of this new world order.

Over the course of 70 years, the technology has developed so rapidly that it has gone from early computers exhibiting a primitive form of artificial intelligence to machine learning (AI systems that learn from historic data) to deep learning (machine learning that mimics the human brain) to generative AI, which can create original content, i.e., it appears able to think for itself.

What we are approaching is the point of no return.

In tech speak, this point of no return is more aptly termed “singularity,” the point at which AI eclipses its human handlers and becomes all-powerful. Elon Musk has predicted that singularity could happen by 2026. AI scientist Ray Kurzweil imagines it happening it closer to 2045.

While the scientific community has a lot to say about the world-altering impact of artificial intelligence on every aspect of our lives, little has been said about its growing role in government and its oppressive effect on our freedoms, especially “the core democratic principles of privacy, autonomy, equality, the political process, and the rule of law.”

According to a report from Accenture, it is estimated that across both the public and private sectors, generative AI has the potential to automate a significant portion of jobs across various sectors.

Here’s a thought: what if Trump’s pledge to cut the federal work force isn’t really about eliminating government bureaucracy but outsourcing it to the AI tech sector?

Certainly, Trump has made no secret of his plans to make AI a priority. Indeed, Trump signed the first-ever Executive Order on AI in 2019. More recently, Trump issued an executive order giving the technology sector a green light to develop and deploy AI without any guardrails in place to limit the risks it might pose to U.S. national security, the economy, public health or safety.

President Biden was no better, mind you. His executive order, which Trump repealed, merely instructed the tech sector to share the results of AI safety tests with the U.S. government.

Yet following much the same pattern that we saw with the rollout of drones, while the government has been quick to avail itself of AI technology, it has done little to nothing to ensure that rights of the American people are protected.

Indeed, we are altogether lacking any guardrails for transparency, accountability and adherence to the rule of law when it comes to the government’s use of AI.

As Karl Manheim and Lyric Kaplan point out in a chilling article in the Yale Journal of Law & Technology about the risks to privacy and democracy posed by AI, “[a]rtificial intelligence is the most disruptive technology of the modern era… Its impact is likely to dwarf even the development of the internet as it enters every corner of our lives… Advances in AI herald not just a new age in computing, but also present new dangers to social values and constitutional rights. The threat to privacy from social media algorithms and the Internet of Things is well known. What is less appreciated is the even greater threat that AI poses to democracy itself.”

Cue the rise of “digital authoritarianism” or “algocracy—rule by algorithm.”

In an algocracy, “Mark Zuckerberg and Sundar Pichai, CEOs of Facebook and Google, have more control over Americans’ lives and futures than do the representatives we elect.”

Digital authoritarianism, as the Center for Strategic and International Studies cautions, involves the use of information technology to surveil, repress, and manipulate the populace, endangering human rights and civil liberties, and co-opting and corrupting the foundational principles of democratic and open societies, “including freedom of movement, the right to speak freely and express political dissent, and the right to personal privacy, online and off.”

How do we protect our privacy against the growing menace of overreach and abuse by a technological sector working with the government?

The ability to do so may already be out of our hands.

In 2024, at least 37 federal government agencies ranging from the Departments of Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs to Health and Human Services reported more than 1700 uses of AI in carrying out their work, double from the year before. That does not even begin to touch on agencies that did not report their usage, or usage at the state and local levels.

Of those 1700 cases at the federal level, 227 were labeled rights- or safety-impacting.

A particularly disturbing example of how AI is being used by government agencies in rights- and safety-impacting scenarios comes from an investigative report by The Washington Post on how law enforcement agencies across the nation are using “artificial intelligence tools in a way they were never intended to be used: as a shortcut to finding and arresting suspects without other evidence.”

This is what is referred to within tech circles as “automation bias,” a tendency to blindly trust decisions made by powerful software, ignorant to its risks and limitations. In one particular case, police used AI-powered facial recognition technology to arrest and jail a 29-year-old man for brutally assaulting a security guard. It would take Christopher Gatlin two years to clear his name.

Gatlin is one of at least eight known cases nationwide in which police reliance on AI facial recognition software has resulted in resulted in wrongful arrests arising from an utter disregard for basic police work (such as checking alibis, collecting evidence, corroborating DNA and fingerprint evidence, ignoring suspects’ physical characteristics) and the need to meet constitutional standards of due process and probable cause. According to The Washington Post, “Asian and Black people were up to 100 times as likely to be misidentified by some software as White men.”

The numbers of cases in which AI is contributed to false arrests and questionable police work is likely much higher, given the extent to which police agencies across the country are adopting the technology and will only rise in the wake of the Trump Administration’s intent to shut down law enforcement oversight and policing reforms.

“How do I beat a machine?” asked one man who was wrongly arrested by police for assaulting a bus driver based on an incorrect AI match.

It is becoming all but impossible to beat the AI machine.

When used by agents of the police state, it leaves “we the people” even more vulnerable.

So where do we go from here?

For the Trump Administration, it appears to be full steam ahead, starting with Stargate, a $500 billion AI infrastructure venture aimed at building massive data centers. Initial reports suggest that the AI data centers could be tied to digital health records and used to develop a cancer vaccine. Of course, massive health data centers for use by AI will mean that one’s health records are fair game for any and all sorts of identification, tracking and flagging.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

The surveillance state, combined with AI, is creating a world in which there’s nowhere to run and nowhere to hide. We’re all presumed guilty until proven innocent now.

Thanks to the 24/7 surveillance being carried out by the government’s sprawling spy network of fusion centers, we are all just sitting ducks, waiting to be tagged, flagged, targeted, monitored, manipulated, investigated, interrogated, heckled and generally harassed by agents of the American police state.

Without having ever knowingly committed a crime or been convicted of one, you and your fellow citizens have likely been assessed for behaviors the government might consider devious, dangerous or concerning; assigned a threat score based on your associations, activities and viewpoints; and catalogued in a government database according to how you should be approached by police and other government agencies based on your particular threat level.

Before long, every household in America will be flagged as a threat and assigned a threat score.

It’s just a matter of time before you find yourself wrongly accused, investigated and confronted by police based on a data-driven algorithm or risk assessment culled together by a computer program run by artificial intelligence.

It’s a setup ripe for abuse.

Writing for the Yale Journal, Manheim and Kaplan conclude that “[h]umans may not be at risk as a species, but we are surely at risk in terms of our democratic institutions and values.”

Privacy­—Manheim and Kaplan succinctly describe it as “the right to make personal decisions for oneself, the right to keep one’s personal information confidential, and the right to be left alone are all ingredients of the fundamental right of privacy”— is especially at risk.

Indeed, with every new AI surveillance technology that is adopted and deployed without any regard for privacy, Fourth Amendment rights and due process, the rights of the citizenry are being marginalized, undermined and eviscerated.

We teeter on the cusp of a cultural, technological and societal revolution the likes of which have never been seen before.

AI surveillance is already re-orienting our world into one in which freedom is almost unrecognizable by doing what the police state lacks the manpower and resources to do efficiently or effectively: be everywhere, watch everyone and everything, monitor, identify, catalogue, cross-check, cross-reference, and collude.

As Eric Schmidt, the former Google CEO remarked, “We know where you are. We know where you’ve been. We can more or less know what you’re thinking about… Your digital identity will live forever… because there’s no delete button.”

The ramifications of any government wielding such unregulated, unaccountable power are chilling, as AI surveillance provides the ultimate means of repression and control for tyrants and benevolent dictators alike.

Indeed, China’s social credit system, where citizens are assigned scores based on their behavior and compliance, offers a glimpse into this dystopian future.

This is not a battle against technology itself, but against its misuse. It’s a fight to retain our humanity, our dignity, and our freedom in the face of unprecedented technological power. It’s a struggle to ensure that AI serves us, not the other way around.

Faced with this looming threat, the time to act is now, before the lines between citizen and subject, between freedom and control, become irrevocably blurred.

The future of freedom depends on it.

So demand transparency. Demand accountability.

Demand an Electronic Bill of Rights that protects “we the people” from the encroaching surveillance state.

We need safeguards in place to ensure the right to data ownership and control (the right to know what data is being collected about them, how it’s being used, who has access to it, and the right to be “forgotten”); the right to algorithmic transparency (to understand how algorithms that affect them make decisions, particularly in areas like loan applications, job hiring, and criminal justice) and due process accountability; the right to privacy and data security, including restrictions on government and corporate use of AI-powered surveillance technologies, particularly facial recognition and predictive policing; the right to digital self-determination (freedom from automated discrimination based on algorithmic profiling) and the ability to manage and control one’s online identity and reputation; and effective mechanisms to seek redress for harms caused by AI systems.

AI deployed without any safeguards in place to protect against overreach and abuse, especially within government agencies, has the potential to become what Elon Musk described as an “immortal dictator,” one that lives forever and from which there is no escape.

Whatever you choose to call it—the police state, the Deep State, the surveillance state—this “immortal dictator” will be the future face of the government unless we rein it in now.

As I point out in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, next year could be too late.

WC: 2133

Stay Vigilant and Be Prepared

These steps ensure you and your loved ones are better prepared to handle emergencies effectively. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive for safety and preparedness.

Stop The Bleed

Stop The Bleed

The “Stop the Bleed” course is designed to teach individuals how to respond to bleeding emergencies effectively. It’s a crucial skill set for both everyday situations and emergencies, helping to control severe bleeding until professional medical help arrives. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from the course:

Course Objectives:

Recognize Bleeding:

  • Understand the types of bleeding (arterial, venous, capillary) and how to identify severe bleeding.

    Control Bleeding:

  • Apply Direct Pressure: Learn how to use cloths or bandages to apply pressure directly to the wound.
  • Use Tourniquets: Understand when and how to apply a tourniquet to control severe arterial bleeding from limbs.
  • Pack Wounds: For severe bleeding that doesn’t respond to direct pressure, learn how to pack the wound with gauze to control bleeding.

    Manage Shock:

  • Recognize signs of shock (e.g., pale skin, rapid pulse) and learn how to manage it by keeping the person calm and comfortable, and elevating their legs if possible.

    Hands-On Practice:

  • Practice techniques using realistic scenarios and mannequins to gain confidence and skill in controlling bleeding.

Course Content:

Introduction to Bleeding:

    • Overview of anatomy related to bleeding.
    • Discussion on how bleeding can be life-threatening.

First Aid Techniques:

    • Detailed instructions on how to apply direct pressure, use tourniquets, and pack wounds.
    • Demonstration of proper techniques and tools.

Scenario Practice:

    • Hands-on practice with simulations to apply learned skills in a controlled environment.

Review and Certification:

    • Recap of key points and techniques.
    • Certification or acknowledgment of participation (if applicable).

How to Take the Course:

Prepare for the Course:

    • Wear comfortable clothing and be prepared to participate in hands-on activities.

Utilize Resources:

    • After completing the course, review the materials provided and practice techniques regularly to keep your skills sharp.

Importance:

Save Lives:

    • Effective bleeding control can be the difference between life and death in emergencies.

Boost Confidence:

    • Knowing what to do in a bleeding emergency helps you act quickly and calmly.

Community Impact:

    • Being trained empowers you to assist others in need, potentially saving lives in critical situations.

The “Stop the Bleed” course is an invaluable skill set that equips you to handle severe bleeding emergencies effectively and confidently.

This course is two hours in length. All students will receive a certificate of participation upon completion of the course. The class is taught by an experienced CPR/AED First Aid and Advanced Bleeding Control instructor. Parking is free. Class Minimum: 4 students

Stop The Bleed

Stop The Bleed

The “Stop the Bleed” course is designed to teach individuals how to respond to bleeding emergencies effectively. It’s a crucial skill set for both everyday situations and emergencies, helping to control severe bleeding until professional medical help arrives. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from the course:

Course Objectives:

Recognize Bleeding:

  • Understand the types of bleeding (arterial, venous, capillary) and how to identify severe bleeding.

    Control Bleeding:

  • Apply Direct Pressure: Learn how to use cloths or bandages to apply pressure directly to the wound.
  • Use Tourniquets: Understand when and how to apply a tourniquet to control severe arterial bleeding from limbs.
  • Pack Wounds: For severe bleeding that doesn’t respond to direct pressure, learn how to pack the wound with gauze to control bleeding.

    Manage Shock:

  • Recognize signs of shock (e.g., pale skin, rapid pulse) and learn how to manage it by keeping the person calm and comfortable, and elevating their legs if possible.

    Hands-On Practice:

  • Practice techniques using realistic scenarios and mannequins to gain confidence and skill in controlling bleeding.

Course Content:

Introduction to Bleeding:

    • Overview of anatomy related to bleeding.
    • Discussion on how bleeding can be life-threatening.

First Aid Techniques:

    • Detailed instructions on how to apply direct pressure, use tourniquets, and pack wounds.
    • Demonstration of proper techniques and tools.

Scenario Practice:

    • Hands-on practice with simulations to apply learned skills in a controlled environment.

Review and Certification:

    • Recap of key points and techniques.
    • Certification or acknowledgment of participation (if applicable).

How to Take the Course:

Prepare for the Course:

    • Wear comfortable clothing and be prepared to participate in hands-on activities.

Utilize Resources:

    • After completing the course, review the materials provided and practice techniques regularly to keep your skills sharp.

Importance:

Save Lives:

    • Effective bleeding control can be the difference between life and death in emergencies.

Boost Confidence:

    • Knowing what to do in a bleeding emergency helps you act quickly and calmly.

Community Impact:

    • Being trained empowers you to assist others in need, potentially saving lives in critical situations.

The “Stop the Bleed” course is an invaluable skill set that equips you to handle severe bleeding emergencies effectively and confidently.

This course is two hours in length. All students will receive a certificate of participation upon completion of the course. The class is taught by an experienced CPR/AED First Aid and Advanced Bleeding Control instructor. Parking is free. Class Minimum: 4 students

Concealed Handgun License Class

Concealed Handgun License Class

Oregon/Utah/Arizona/Washington

This highly rated, fun, and informative 34+ state concealed carry class meets and exceeds the education requirements for you to apply for your concealed handgun license (CHL) from Oregon as a resident (or non-resident) of the state, a permit from Washington (as a resident or non-resident), and permits from Arizona and Utah as a non-resident.

Certifications Obtained Through This Course

  • Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP)
  • Oregon Concealed Handgun License (CHL)
  • Utah Concealed Firearm Permit (CFP)

Class Description

This 4-hour combined Oregon Concealed Handgun License (CHL), Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP), and Utah Concealed Firearms Permit (CFP) class is a comprehensive training course designed to educate individuals on the laws and regulations surrounding the carrying of concealed firearms. The class covers essential topics such as the use of force, firearms safety, the proper handling and storage of firearms, and the specific laws and requirements for obtaining a permit in OR, AZ, and UT.

Our classes are taught by industry-leading instructors who will provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to carry a concealed firearm safely.

Oregon Residents:  The Oregon Resident CHL is a  Shall Issue license.
Oregon Non-Residents: The Oregon CHL is available to non-residents who live in bordering states: California, Idaho, Nevada, and Washington, and is a May Issue license, which means it is at the discretion of the sheriff in the county in which you apply. Your instructor will provide you with all the information needed to submit applications.

The Arizona and Utah permits are open to residents of any state. You do NOT have to reside in or visit the state of AZ or UT to apply for their permits;
they can be applied for by mail.

In addition to the legal knowledge you gain in this class, there are many benefits to getting your permit(s) and carrying a concealed firearm; they include but are not limited to:

  • Increased Personal Safety: Carrying a concealed firearm protects individuals and their loved ones in potentially dangerous situations.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that you can defend yourself and others will provide a sense of security and peace of mind.
  • Legal Protection: In the event of a self-defense situation, having a permit can provide legal protection by demonstrating that the use of force was justified.
  • Concealed Carry Reciprocity: OR, AZ, and UT have Concealed Carry Reciprocity agreements with many states, meaning permit holders can carry in those states with the same legal protection.

Ages 21 and up are welcome at this event.

Free On-Site Parking – Minimum of 6 Students required

HSI Adult First Aid | CPR AED – All Ages

HSI-CPR/AED/First Aid

This Instructor-led course is 100% in-person and includes scenario-based practice and testing.

Course Overview

The HSI Adult First Aid | CPR AED training program aims for participants to gain or improve knowledge and skill proficiency in adult first aid and CPR AED for adults, children, and infants.

This program includes flexible instructional tools for developing proficiency via demonstration and prompted practice, including scenario-based problem-solving exercises with feedback.

HSI First Aid | CPR AED reflects the latest resuscitation science and treatment recommendations published by the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR), and it conforms with the 2020 American Heart Association (AHA) Guidelines Update for CPR and ECC and the annual Guidelines Update.

Upon successful completion, students receive an HSI First Aid/CPR/AED certification valid for 2 years. This course meets OSHA standards. You will be sent a detailed confirmation to the email provided during registration.

Free Parking is included – A minimum of 4 students is required