Preparedness
Florida Dad Defends Family from Aggressive Driver with Gun

In a tense encounter in Florida, a father was compelled to use his firearm when a motorist with a lengthy criminal record allegedly attempted to run over him and his son. The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office reported that 47-year-old Marcus Blicker pursued two vehicles driven by a neighbor’s son and his friend, swerving aggressively in traffic.
The situation escalated when the son contacted his father for help, indicating that they were being followed. Upon reaching the father’s residence on Jackson Lane in Port Orange, Blicker arrived too, reportedly yelling and threatening the young men. Port Orange is located approximately 15 minutes south of Daytona Beach.
In response to the aggressive behavior, the father fired warning shots in an attempt to deter Blicker. However, the situation intensified when Blicker allegedly tried to ram them with his truck around 7:40 p.m., prompting the father to shoot.
Deputies found Blicker deceased in the driver’s seat of his pickup when they arrived at the scene. The sheriff’s office confirmed that video and audio recordings corroborate the accounts provided by the shooter and witnesses.
As of now, no criminal charges have been filed against the father, although the investigation is ongoing. The incident also involved Blicker’s Rottweiler, which was injured during the shooting. The dog was taken for veterinary care by Volusia County Animal Services and is expected to recover.
Court records reveal Blicker’s extensive criminal history. In 2020, he was arrested for aggravated stalking, serving 12 months’ probation. Additionally, in 2012, he received a 12-month probation sentence for battery after an incident at the Flagler Tavern in New Smyrna Beach where he punched a woman.
This incident underscores the potential dangers of confrontations and the complexities involved in self-defense situations.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Preparedness
Homesteaders’ Secret Weapon for Success and Survival Revealed

Homesteading is often synonymous with self-sufficiency, yet even the most independent homesteaders find that they cannot do everything on their own. This is where the importance of community comes into play. Building a network of like-minded individuals can provide not only practical support but also emotional companionship, which is essential when the isolation of rural life sets in.
A strong community offers numerous benefits. When you encounter challenges, having a knowledgeable group to turn to can be invaluable. Whether you’re troubleshooting a stubborn garden pest or learning a new skill, the collective wisdom of a community can guide you through. In times of need, your community becomes a resource for bartering or lending a helping hand. As one homesteader notes, “If you can’t perform a task alone, others in your homesteading community will pitch in to help.”
Beyond practical needs, community offers emotional support. Loneliness can be a real issue for homesteaders, and having friends who understand your lifestyle can make all the difference. Furthermore, in the event of a disaster, those closest to you will be there to help you pick up the pieces.
Building such a community requires intentional effort. As adults, forming new bonds isn’t as simple as it was on the playground, but it is crucial for the homesteading journey. Start by getting to know your neighbors, whether they are fellow homesteaders or not. In emergencies, they are often the closest help available. Shopping locally and supporting small businesses is another effective way to build connections. Frequent visits to local farms, stores, or markets can lead to meaningful relationships.
To find like-minded individuals, be strategic about where you spend your time. Attend gardening classes at the library or visit farmers’ markets on weekends. Online resources, like local homesteading groups or forums, can also be a treasure trove of connections.
Don’t shy away from asking for help. “When you humble yourself and ask for help, people tend to be receptive,” and it opens the door for mutual exchange of knowledge and resources. Sharing meals is another powerful way to forge bonds. Inviting others for dinner or a potluck can quickly turn acquaintances into friends.
Engaging in community activities can also introduce you to potential allies. Whether it’s a service project or a local event, participating alongside others can strengthen your ties. Consider what you can offer to your community, whether it’s fresh produce, honey, or a skill like knitting.
Sharing the workload is another cornerstone of community life. Offer assistance when you see someone tackling a big project, and don’t hesitate to ask for help with your own. Building a community means being there for each other, both in work and in play. Hosting fun activities like picnics or games can transform casual interactions into lasting relationships.
To find a community, explore various avenues. Online platforms like Meetup and Facebook can connect you with local groups. Farmers’ markets, libraries, and farm supply stores are also excellent places to meet fellow homesteaders. Even livestock auctions and youth clubs like 4-H and FFA can be fertile ground for building your network.
In the world of homesteading, community is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. By intentionally seeking out and nurturing these connections, you create a support system that enriches your homesteading experience and ensures you never have to go it alone.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Preparedness
Craft Homemade Cleaners for a Self-Sufficient, Healthier Home

Becoming more self-sufficient is a key goal for many homesteaders, and it goes beyond just cultivating your own food. A significant aspect of this lifestyle involves reducing reliance on commercial supply chains and big retail stores. One practical way to achieve this is by crafting your own cleaning products from scratch. This approach not only cuts costs but also gives you control over the ingredients you use in your home.
Creating your own cleaning solutions allows you to avoid the mysterious chemicals often found in store-bought products. Instead, you can opt for safe, effective alternatives made with ingredients likely already stocked in your pantry, such as baking soda, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, natural soap, and essential oils.
To help you embark on this journey, we’ll introduce you to four essential DIY cleaning products every homestead should have. An all-purpose cleaner is a staple in any household. Yet, many commercial options contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful. Fortunately, you can make a safe and effective all-purpose cleaning spray using natural ingredients.
Vinegar is a common component in these cleaners, known for its ability to clean counters, glass, and showers efficiently. According to Misfit Gardening, you can create an All-Purpose Vinegar Cleaning Spray by mixing 13 oz of hot water, 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar (5%), 10 drops of lavender, and 20 drops of lemon or another citrus essential oil in a spray bottle. Simply spray the solution on the desired surface and wipe it away with a clean cloth.
Sometimes, more robust cleaning solutions are necessary, especially for kitchen mishaps. For those tougher jobs, Real Simple offers a recipe for a Heavy-Duty Kitchen Cleaning Solution. Combine the ingredients in a bowl, apply the mixture to the surface using the gritty side of a double-sided kitchen sponge, and scrub away.
Bathrooms also require specific cleaning solutions for areas like toilet bowls, sinks, and showers. The Homestead Challenge provides a recipe for a Toilet Bowl Cleaner. Mix the ingredients in a large bowl or jar, pour it into the toilet, and let it sit for five minutes before flushing.
For tackling mold and mildew in the bathroom, Real Simple suggests a Mold and Mildew Cleaner. Combine water and tea-tree oil in a spray bottle, shake well, and spray generously on moldy areas. Let it sit for 24 hours. Then, mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with the solution to form a paste, apply it with a toothbrush, scrub, and rinse.
Lastly, homemade laundry detergent can significantly cut down on costs. Better Homes and Gardens shares a recipe for creating your own detergent and rinse aid. Grate a bar of laundry soap to yield about 2 cups of grated soap, or use soap flakes if available. Mix all the ingredients in a large container and store them in a lidded jar. For a light load, use 2 tablespoons; for a large or dirty load, use 4 tablespoons. Wash as usual. For the rinse cycle, add the essential oil drops to a container of vinegar and use ¼ cup.
By making your own cleaning products, you not only embrace the homesteading ethos of self-sufficiency but also ensure a healthier home environment.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Preparedness
Boost Homestead Security with These Essential Tips

Securing your homestead is essential, even if it seems like a peaceful retreat from the chaos of urban life. The reality is that rural areas can be more susceptible to property crime than suburban ones. As noted by the U.S. Department of Justice, “Property crime is actually more likely in rural areas than suburban areas.”
This increased risk is partly due to fewer people around, which can delay police response times. Although violent crimes are less frequent, burglaries can still occur. To avoid dealing with law enforcement or insurance hassles, consider implementing several security measures to deter potential thieves.
One of the simplest yet most effective deterrents is a dog. A guard dog can alert you to danger and ward off intruders. Even a smaller dog with a big bark can serve as a protective measure. Sometimes, even a “Beware of Dog” sign can make a difference.
Lighting is another crucial aspect of homestead security. Criminals prefer to operate unseen, so installing motion-activated lights around entryways and pathways can keep them at bay. These lights not only deter burglars but can also scare off animal predators, safeguarding both your family and livestock.
A security system is a wise investment for any homestead. With options available for all budgets, you can choose a high-end system if resources allow, or opt for battery-operated door and window alarms if necessary. Video cameras can also discourage intruders and provide evidence if a crime occurs. Installing multiple cameras, including game cameras for extensive properties, ensures comprehensive coverage.
Perimeter fencing is vital for keeping intruders out and animals in. A robust fence with locking gates creates a formidable barrier. Enhancing this with a driveway gate that requires visitors to buzz in adds another layer of security.
A story from the Daily Yonder by Donna Kallner illustrates a unique rural security system: “Their farm was at the end of a gravel lane…a flock of guinea fowl perched. Any time a vehicle got that far those birds kicked up a ruckus.” While not everyone has guinea fowl, a driveway alarm can serve a similar purpose, alerting you to visitors with wireless monitoring.
It’s easy to feel secure on a homestead, but complacency can lead to mistakes, like leaving keys in tractors or hanging them outside. This carelessness can facilitate the theft of valuable equipment. Secure garage door systems are a worthwhile investment to prevent such losses.
A fireproof safe is essential for protecting valuable documents and irreplaceable items. Smart criminals can pick locks, so additional security measures like deadbolts, door chain stoppers, or foot-operated door stoppers are advisable.
Consider your landscaping strategy as part of your security plan. Thorny plants along perimeters and spiky bushes near windows can deter intruders. Noisy pea gravel walkways can alert you and your guard dog to approaching footsteps.
Clear signage is crucial, especially in wooded areas frequented by hunters. Display property markers, video surveillance notices, and security company signs to reinforce the impression of a monitored home.
Maintaining the appearance of an occupied home is another effective deterrent. Keep a vehicle in the driveway, use lights on timers, and avoid letting grass grow too long or mail pile up. Even leaving dog bowls outside can create the illusion of activity.
Finally, building a relationship with your neighbors can enhance your homestead’s security. Ask them to check your mail or mow your lawn when you’re away, and to keep an eye out for anything suspicious. As a related read suggests, community is invaluable for every homesteader.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Terry
November 8, 2024 at 2:32 am
A number of good answers. Warning shots fired into the GROUND gets the perp’s attention. Homeowners DO have the right to protect their property and family. And firearms should be used for self defense only when there is an immediately threat to life.
Retired Army Special Forces Master Sergeant.
Don
November 8, 2024 at 12:26 pm
People have the absolute right to defend themselves from psychotic idiots. Don’t waste warning shots.
Steve
November 8, 2024 at 8:59 pm
Good riddance!