by Prepare Magazine | Apr 5, 2025 | Meet Our Contributors
We are honored that Joe Alton, M.D., aka Dr. Bones, and Amy Alton, A.R.N.P., aka Nurse Amy have been long-time 
supporters and encourages for PREPARE Magazine. Every since the very beginning they have shown great support in helping spread the news of peaceful, pragmatic preparedness to others. Dr. Joe and Nurse Amy have been instrumental in helping to launch the first print Issue of PREPARE and continue to contribute on a regular basis.
Joe Alton, M.D. is one of our Featured Authors. You can read many of his articles in the Print Issues of PREPARE Magazine.
Joe Alton, M.D. (aka: Dr. Bones) is a member of Mensa, collects 19th century medical books to gain insight on off-grid medical strategies. He is the co-author, along with Amy Alton, A.R.N.P. (aka Nurse Amy), of the #1 Amazon Bestseller in Survival Skills “the Survival Medicine Handbook“. The opinions voiced by Dr. Bones and Nurse Amy are for post-apocalyptic settings only; in normal times, they encourage you to seek modern and standard medical care from qualified professionals.
Back in November of 2014 Joe Alton, M.D., aka Dr. Bones, and Amy Alton, A.R.N.P., aka Nurse Amy were part of a very special Live Event. A Free Preparinar on “Hygiene when the Grid Goes Down”. It was a great success with many in attendance asking some great questions! Currently, this is on instant replay in the Premium Member Library Archive along with handouts and more information to help you be medically prepared.
During this Preparinar, attendees listened and learned about the following topics and more:
Building an off-grid medicine cabinet- Disposal of human waste
- Disease causing organisms in food
- Water sterilization
- Respiratory hygiene
- Infectious disease mitigation
If you would like access to this replay (and many others), please consider becoming a PREPARE Premium Member.
Joe & Amy both keep a pretty busy schedule. Between their website, classes, books and now online products, it was truly a privilege that Joe took some time to catch up with the Managing Editor of PREPARE and Podcast Hostess, Donna Miller on a recent episode.
Take a listen below to hear all the new things that Dr. Bones & Nurse Amy have going on and how they want to help you be medically prepared!
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If you’re not already familiar with them, we highly suggest that you check out what they have to say. We can whole heartedly endorse how they share their expertise.
Here are some other great ways to connect with Joe Alton, M.D., aka Dr. Bones, and Amy Alton, A.R.N.P., aka Nurse Amy:
We here at PREPARE Magazine have enjoyed working with Joe Alton, M.D., aka Dr. Bones, and Amy Alton, A.R.N.P., aka Nurse Amy for many years. We hope you will connect with them, learn skills from them, follow their advice and ask them for thier expertise as you become more prepared.
Popular Questions
What contributions has Joe Alton, M.D., aka Dr. Bones made to PREPARE Magazine?
Joe Alton, M.D., also known as Dr. Bones, has been a long-time supporter of PREPARE Magazine, helping to spread awareness about preparedness. He played a crucial role in launching the first print issue of the magazine and continues to contribute regularly with insightful articles. His expertise in off-grid medical strategies and survival skills is invaluable to readers seeking practical advice.
How can I learn more about off-grid medical strategies from Dr. Bones?
To delve deeper into off-grid medical strategies, you can explore the articles written by Joe Alton, M.D. in the print issues of PREPARE Magazine. Additionally, his co-authored book, "The Survival Medicine Handbook," is a top resource for survival skills. Engaging with his content will equip you with essential knowledge for medical preparedness in various situations.
What topics did Dr. Bones cover during the Hygiene when the Grid Goes Down Preparinar?
During the Preparinar event, Joe Alton, M.D. discussed critical topics such as building an off-grid medicine cabinet, water sterilization, and infectious disease mitigation. These subjects are vital for anyone looking to maintain hygiene and health during emergencies. The replay of this event is available in the Premium Member Library Archive for those interested in enhancing their preparedness knowledge.
How can I connect with Joe Alton, M.D. and Nurse Amy for more preparedness advice?
You can connect with Joe Alton, M.D., and Amy Alton, A.R.N.P. through their blog at Doom and Bloom, where they share valuable insights on survival and medical preparedness. They are also active on Facebook, providing updates and engaging with their audience. Following their work will keep you informed about their latest resources and advice.
What is the significance of Joe Alton's background in relation to his preparedness teachings?
Joe Alton, M.D. is a member of Mensa and collects 19th-century medical books, which enriches his understanding of off-grid medical practices. His diverse background allows him to offer unique insights into survival medicine, making his teachings particularly relevant for those interested in preparedness. This expertise is reflected in the comprehensive advice he provides through various platforms, including PREPARE Magazine.
by Prepare Magazine | Apr 5, 2025 | Blog, Guest Bloggers
The traditional growing season is coming to a close. If you have grown heirloom tomatoes, then seed saving is next on the ‘to-do’ list. Here is a guest blog from one of our new writers here at PREPARE Magazine. We hope you enjoy these 8 Easy Steps to Fermenting Tomato Seed for Seed Saving.
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By Guest Blogger, Chris Smith
Some seeds need to be fermented in order to break down the gelatinous placental layer that surrounds the seed. Once this layer is broken down the seeds can be dried and stored in a cool, dark and dry location.
Step One – cut along the equator to reveal the seed categories
Step Two – squeeze or scrape seeds into a clean container
Step Three – top the container up with clean water and stir vigorously
Step Four – leave to ferment for 2-3 days. Stir daily
Step Five – seeds will sink to the bottom. Fermented gunk will form on top
Step Six – pour off the gunk, fill with water and pour off the gunk. Repeat until most of the gunk is gone.
Step Seven – do a final rinse to make sure seeds are clean.
Step Eight – allow seeds to dry thoroughly before storing. I use coffee filters
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Chris Smith is an enthusiastic grower and permaculture student from a green-thumbed family! On his ½ acre micro-farm, Chris is experimenting with landraces, selective seed saving, crop trials and seed grow outs. With a newborn in the family, the importance of resilient food systems is high in his mind. Chris works at Sow True Seed in Asheville, NC as the Community Coordinator and is active in promoting good quality, regionally adapted open-pollinated seed.
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Popular Questions
What are the easy steps to ferment tomato seeds for saving?
To ferment tomato seeds for saving, start by cutting the tomato along the equator and squeezing the seeds into a clean container. Add clean water and stir vigorously, then let the mixture ferment for 2-3 days, stirring daily. After fermentation, the seeds will sink, and you can pour off the gunk that forms on top. Rinse the seeds thoroughly before allowing them to dry completely.
How long should you ferment tomato seeds for saving?
Fermenting tomato seeds typically takes about 2-3 days. During this time, it's important to stir the mixture daily to ensure even fermentation. After the fermentation period, the seeds will settle at the bottom, and you can remove the floating debris. This process helps break down the gelatinous layer surrounding the seeds, making them easier to clean.
What should you do after fermenting tomato seeds for saving?
Once the fermentation process is complete, pour off the gunk and rinse the seeds with clean water to remove any remaining debris. Repeat this rinsing process until most of the gunk is gone and the seeds are clean. After rinsing, allow the seeds to dry thoroughly, which is crucial for proper storage. Using coffee filters can help absorb moisture effectively during the drying process.
Why is it important to ferment tomato seeds before saving them?
Fermenting tomato seeds is essential because it helps break down the gelatinous layer that surrounds the seeds, which can inhibit germination if left intact. This process also helps eliminate any potential pathogens that may be present on the seeds. By fermenting, you ensure that the seeds are clean and ready for storage, increasing their viability for future planting. Properly fermented seeds can lead to healthier plants in the next growing season.
by Prepare Magazine | Apr 5, 2025 | Preparedness planning
Today we are glad to introduce you to another one our Distinguished Authors, Donald Alley. We hope you will connect with him and enjoy getting to know a little more about his background and area of expertise.
Donald is a martial practitioner with over 10 years of experience. He has practiced personal protection training methodology with broad-spectrum awareness. He is a black belt in classical Ju Jutsu, Assistant Instructor at the Martial Science Center, and an Emergency Preparedness Instructor and Program Coordinator at Martial Tactical Training of Michigan. Furthermore, he is an NRA Instructor for Basic Pistol and Personal Protection firearm training. His product line, Bu Tactical, includes items for protection, preparedness, and survival applications.
Our Managing Editor, Donna Miller recently was able to get better acquainted with Don through the podcast below. We hope you’ll listen to what he shares and how he sees not only Martial Arts but how hidden everyday items play a role in your personal protection and your preparedness plan.
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Here are some other great ways to connect with Donald Alley:
Each author here at PREPARE Magazine has a desire to share encouraging preparedness steps with our readers. From the beginning on through his rise in the ranks, Don has expressed the same mission to help others prepare with practical and level-headed advice. He not only shares his passion for Martial Arts with the each of you as readers, but truly hopes he can help empower you along the journey. We hope you will connect with Don and all that she has to offer.
Popular Questions
What is the background of Donald Alley as a distinguished author?
Donald Alley has over 10 years of experience in martial arts, specifically as a black belt in classical Ju Jutsu. He serves as an Assistant Instructor at the Martial Science Center and is also an Emergency Preparedness Instructor and Program Coordinator at Martial Tactical Training of Michigan. His extensive background allows him to offer practical advice on personal protection and preparedness.
How does Donald Alley incorporate martial arts into personal protection training?
Donald Alley emphasizes the importance of broad-spectrum awareness in personal protection training. His methodology includes practical techniques derived from his martial arts experience, which he shares with his students and through his product line, Bu Tactical. This approach not only focuses on physical skills but also on mental preparedness and situational awareness.
What resources does Donald Alley offer for those interested in preparedness?
Through his product line, Bu Tactical, Donald Alley provides various items designed for protection, preparedness, and survival applications. Additionally, he engages with the community through his Facebook page, newsletter, and LinkedIn profile, where he shares insights and advice. His commitment to empowering others is evident in the resources he makes available.
How can listeners connect with Donald Alley to learn more about his expertise?
Listeners can connect with Donald Alley through his podcast, where he discusses martial arts and personal protection strategies. He is also active on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, where he shares valuable content. Engaging with his newsletter is another way to stay updated on his latest insights and offerings.
by Prepare Magazine | Apr 5, 2025 | Giveaway
The Book: IT’S A DISASTER! …and what are YOU gonna do about it? (5th Edition) has been used in First Responder Training across the country! How much better could your family be prepared than to have on hand the very same book that so many First Responders use?
The book doesn’t read like a novel nor is it difficult to ‘get through.’ In fact, it lends itself to reading in short segments of time based upon your need, area of potential disaster or interest. Even if you are in the midst of a crisis, the way this book is set up – it’s so easy to find what you need in just seconds that it is a far better field guide than most other emergency manuals we’ve reviewed.
From Family Emergencies to Business Preparedness or Natural Disasters to Man-Made Mayhem, the book: IT’S A DISASTER! …and what are YOU gonna do about it? (5th Edition) really does cover the widest base of events we’ve ever seen in one single book.
Not only does it cover the events – it gives you the wherewithal to handle living through them right while they are happening. The step-by-step bullet points are easy to spot and follow thus they help you stay on track in the midst of chaos! It covers so many possible events in order to help you feel ready with almost endless contingency plans.
The authors also offer this as a Community Preparedness involvement incentive that can become fundraisers for a school, church group or community planners. This outreach is unique in that the desire is to get these books in the hands of more grass-roots movements rather than hit a ‘best seller list’. This shows the true heart of the authors – to help communities and people prepare for life’s emergencies. We applaud and stand with them in this effort!
As the author’s state on their website, the book: IT’S A DISASTER! …and what are YOU gonna do about it? (5th Edition) truly “helps families and businesses ‘be aware, be prepared, and have a plan’ for most types of emergencies and disasters (including Terrorism). The 266-page paperback provides quick-reference instructional bullets in 2-color format. It is not written to alarm people, rather it suggests tips on what to think about and do before, during and after specific types of scenarios, as well as how to administer basic first aid.”
If you have not had the opportunity to get your hands on this valuable resource guide, we highly recommend that you do. We hope you’ll enter this Giveaway for your opportunity to win it and add it to your bug out bag, emergency bin or back pack!
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Full Disclosure: We recommend this book, otherwise we would not be affiliates. If you do not win one, please consider purchasing one of these books through the Amazon Ad below. Thank you!
by Prepare Magazine | Apr 5, 2025 | Meet Our Contributors
We are so happy to share a little more with you about one of our Distinguished Authors, Tammy Trayer .
Tammy is an author, freelance writer, and a radio show host at Mountain Woman Radio. Tammy and her family embraced their traditional 100% off-grid lifestyle in 2010. They lived in a canvas wall tent on raw wilderness land for 8 1/2 months while building their home.
Tammy has a passion to help educate others by sharing their experiences of living off the land, dealing with autism, gluten free and dairy free cooking, self reliance, wilderness survival, traditional and primitive skills, and much more. You can follow Tammy‘s radio show on iTunes and her website. You may also keep up with Tammy‘s informative articles and videos by subscribing to: http://TrayerWilderness.com.
Back in October of 2014, Tammy Trayer was also one of our delightful guests on a Preparinar that dealt with Food Storage for people with Restrictive Dietary Needs.
Tammy has extensive experience dealing with how different foods, addatives and preservatives effect her son who is overcoming Autism by being on a Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Diet. Tammy joined us to talk about “Planning to Survive & Thrive while Gluten-free & Dairy-free for Autism” Her portion of the Preparinar is one of the most vital training Training Video in the growing Premium Member Library Archive to not only focus on food storage, but specificly one that helps to overcome much of the battle of Autism without the need of medication!
Our Managing Editor, Donna Miller also hosts a popular, long-running podcast in which she recently was thrilled to get to chat with Tammy again. Tammy & Donna have a long-time, deep connection and we feel sure you’ll enjoy the casual conversation as you get to know Tammy a bit more personally:
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Tammy has recently released a new ebook, “The Trayer Wilderness Cookbook Vol.1 ~ Homesteading The Traditional Way”.
You can even subscribe to her newsletter and receive it (and much more) for FREE. Just click HERE
In the radio interview above, Donna and Tammy also discuss some topics of her next book is due out in September 2015! “How To Embrace An Off-Grid Lifestyle” will include: breaking apart the misconceptions of off-grid living and alternative energy, things to consider when planning and building, how to be frugal with your power, some of their own building hacks that helped them conserve a great deal of power and more.
Here are some other great ways to connect with Tammy Trayer:
It has been our honor here at PREPARE Magazine to work with Tammy Trayer. She brings not only a weath of knowledge but also inspiration and encouragement to each endevour she undertakes. Her Faith and commitment to serve others makes her such a vital part of our team as together we march on toward our mission to Enrich, Encourage and Empower YOUR Preparedness Journey. We hope you will connect with Tammy and all that she has to offer.
Popular Questions
What inspired Tammy Trayer to embrace an off-grid lifestyle?
Tammy Trayer and her family made the decision to live off-grid in 2010, driven by a desire for self-reliance and a connection to nature. They spent 8 1/2 months living in a canvas wall tent while building their home, which allowed them to fully immerse themselves in the wilderness experience. This lifestyle choice has greatly influenced her writing and teachings, as she shares valuable insights on living sustainably and overcoming challenges.
How does Tammy Trayer address dietary needs in her work?
Tammy Trayer focuses on gluten-free and dairy-free cooking, particularly for families dealing with autism. Her experiences with her son have led her to create resources that help others navigate restrictive diets while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Through her articles and her ebook, "The Trayer Wilderness Cookbook Vol.1", she provides practical recipes and tips for those looking to thrive on specialized diets.
What can listeners expect from Tammy Trayer's radio show?
On Mountain Woman Radio, Tammy Trayer shares her expertise on off-grid living, wilderness survival, and self-reliance. Listeners can expect engaging discussions that cover a range of topics, including traditional skills and cooking for specific dietary needs. Her approachable style and wealth of knowledge make each episode both informative and inspiring for those interested in preparedness and sustainable living.
How has Tammy Trayer contributed to the preparedness community?
Tammy Trayer has made significant contributions to the preparedness community through her writing, radio show, and educational resources. She has participated in events like the Preparinar, where she shared insights on food storage for restrictive diets. Her commitment to educating others about off-grid living and self-sufficiency has made her a respected figure in the community.
