Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.
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What if _______ ?
That’s the question asked by PREPARE Magazine, a new Asheville-based bi-monthly print and digital publication that seeks to equip readers with “the tools, tips, skills and encouragement you will need for the days ahead.”
Preppers 101.
Publisher Joseph Miller of Asheville seeks $8,978 in a campaign that’s already raised $1750. From the PREPARE campaign page on IndieGogo, a fundraising site similar to Kickstarter:
Q:What if _______ ? A: That’s the big question isn’t it? With high unemployment, economic fears, and concerns about natural disasters, people are searching for solutions to help them feel more safe and secure. That’s not always easy in today’s world, though. Many are scared and just do not know where to turn. That’s why we are pushing to get the message out about being prepared for whatever comes your way.
Q:Why is Preparedness so important? A: No one expects to drive down the highway for the strict purpose of getting into a wreck, but we have seat belts and car insurance for the POTENTIAL that things outside of our control might just go wrong. In fact, everyone should wear a seatbelt for safety reasons – likewise, it is important that everyone prepare for other potential risks and difficulties.
Many people are already struggling through very difficult times. Things are tough, and people are weary. With all the negative news, some people are extremely frightened and confused and do not know where to turn. One of the first steps in preparedness is to evaluate your situation and ask yourself simple questions like:
How would you afford paying your bills or even providing for your family if you lost your job and income?
What if a drought or natural calamity impacted the food supply?
How would you survive if there was a disruption in your water source?
Perks for supporters include subscriptions to the magazine, access to the digital archive, t-shirts, a bread-making book, a how-to report on building a hydro-electric generator, access to a “preparation training site” and ad space within the magazine.