| GREATER ARIZONA PREPARATION PROJECT |
| POSITION PAPER ON MESA BUTTE HOMESTEAD |
We have found that one of the most difficult things about creating this community has
been to communicate in detail our vision for the project, and this difficulty seems to be the
result of several factors.
One, no one is able to read minds as of yet; Two, it is a very complex thing to try and
describe what amounts to a miniature version of our proposed society in a short written
dissertation; Three, it is a work in progress, and must be flexible enough to adapt to
changing conditions quickly, but yet be firm enough that it doesn’t change course every
time the wind blows from a different direction; and lastly, how we must live now while
among the greater community is probably going to be vastly different than how we will
function in the event that a cataclysmic disaster greatly reduces the impact of the wider
community on Mesa Butte Homestead.
We do not intend this document to cause you any alarm or to make you nervous, but to
educate you as to the initial thoughts, mind-sets, and world-views of the founders of this
project. If you are truly looking for a realistic and achievable solution to your family’s
survival needs during these turbulent times, we strongly recommend that you read this
document in its entirety. Besides, if you are contemplating participating in our project, you
might just want to know how we think concerning some of the major issues that confront
society today and what the potential rules and regulations of our community will be based
on, and why.
POLITICAL CONSIDERATIONS:
So, the first place to start is from the political side of things. First, we stand on the side of
law and order as we in this country know it, and we as a society will abide by the rules and
regulations that society has promulgated heretofore. We stand inflexibly in agreement
with the Constitutional parameters as put forth by the founding fathers of this country.
This document has proven its value and ability to correctly lead this country under the most
trying of times throughout its history. The Bill of Rights is the next document that we must
adhere to in all aspects. Our position is that we will never attempt to change or modify its
parameters without a unanimous consent of those to whom it applies. The next document
that is an imperative for this community is the Bible, in its original languages, and more
specifically, the New Testament for the parts that deal with human interactions. We are
not advocating any particular religious position, and that will be discussed further below,
but the Bible has established the most giving, compassionate, and loving standards for
which mankind has strived to attain for thousands of years; which is to say that it has also
stood the test of time. Nor will any other documents or philosophical writings be added to
the before-mentioned sources. Finally, we are committed to the “tripartite” democratic
process, as we believe that a citizenry that actively and knowledgeably participates in the
process is one that has achieved true freedom and liberty. Tripartite Democracy denotes
that there are three essential aspects to government of the people, by the people, and for
the people, and is characterized in the legislative, judicial, and executive branches.
Leadership positions will be democratically elected, and the community will strive to hold
all those in a position of authority accountable for their actions. The details of these
processes are still to be worked out by the community, and everyone will have a voice in
that process.
INTERPERSONAL CONSIDERATIONS:
This next point deals with the concerns of how do we plan on interacting with one another,
and this is where the Biblical and Bill of Rights applications come in. Jesus said that we are
to love thy neighbor as ourselves, and that concept really sums up how we are to deal with
each other. Another statement that describes how we are to interact with one another is: In
Essentials…Unity; In Non-Essentials…Liberty; and In All Things…Charity. If we, as a
community, take these two statements and wrap them together, we have the ingredients to
successful co-habitation and communication with each other. We will not tolerate racism
of any sort, hate crimes of any sort, political correctness of any sort, religious exclusivism of
any sort, elitism, co-habitation outside the marriage covenant, abuse of substances, abuse of
a verbal, physical, emotional, or sexual nature, elderly abuse, exploitation of minors,
withholding of medical treatment, or discrimination of another person for any reason. Our
goal is not to recreate all the evils of the greater society within our community, but to
actually uphold the greater laws of the land in order to prevent those evils from harming
residents of our community. You can figure in general, that if you were prohibited from a
certain behavior outside the community, then you won’t be allowed to do it within the
community. If you attempt to take the moral high road, then you will probably make the
correct decision in most things.
ECONOMIC CONSIDERATIONS:
Economics tend to pose a more difficult challenge, because of all the possible scenarios that
we as a community are very likely to face in the next few years. From a pre-catastrophe
perspective here is our take on financial things: As long as the government of the United
States continues to function as the authority in the greater society, we will adhere to its
financial provisions in all their forms, which is to say that we will pay what we must, we
will not pay what is not necessary, and we will “give to Caesar that which belongs to him.”
We will use the lawful currency of the land to conduct business with those inside and
those outside of the community.
From a post-catastrophe scenario, we will do what we must in order to ensure the survival
and success of the community in such areas as: barter and trade with outside of the
community, the treatment and reward of those who are within the community, and will not
create our own currency unless there is a unanimous resolution by the community to
proceed with a policy of that nature. We will deal with others in a fair and equitable
manner under all circumstances. We will also attempt to establish ourselves as a center of
trade for the surrounding area, and as a place where buyers and sellers can come to safely
conduct their business in a non-partisan, controlled, and non-threatening environment (a
swap meet as it were, ala Jericho). We believe that a strong commercial presence,
combined with an impeccable reputation for ethics and fair-play is the best way to ensure
the health and prosperity of the community should ever a TSHTF scenario occur.
No matter the circumstances, we will deal with all others outside of our community with
integrity and honesty, and we expect our residents to do the same amongst themselves. If
you owe, pay it. If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it. If you think that the price is too low, raise
it. If you think that the cost is too high, negotiate a lower price, or don’t buy it. If you make
a mistake, learn from it. If you aren’t happy about it, don’t whine about it. If you promise it,
then deliver it. If you say it, mean it. If you start it, finish it. Most of what should happen in
any event is that a standard of Fair Market Value will be applied to all transactions, both
from within and without the community, and this is defined by a very simple concept. FMV
is the price a buyer is willing to pay, the price for which a seller is willing to sell, and said
price has been mutually agreed upon without undue negative influence or duress by either
party to the transaction, or by an outside third party’s negative influence.
LAW ENFORCEMENT AND DEFENSE CONSIDERATIONS:
The concept of law enforcement and defense is a most difficult one to address as it is subject
to similar issues that confront us concerning economics, because there will be a “before”
and very possibly an “after” scenario that has to be addressed. We have determined that the
best way to do is to create an internal police force made up of community citizens who have
been deputized by the community to handle disturbances and other such things that police
do. Now, as long as an external governmental authority exists, these individuals will
operate in a regular security guard capacity. Their areas of influence are then very well
defined by existing American tradition. However, in the event that there is no longer any
help coming from an outside authority, they will be elevated to the position of peace
officers, charged with maintaining domestic tranquility. There is plenty of information
publicly available to review that can help you to understand those basic parameters. There
will be much committee work to be done to further define their roles in the community.
The concept of defense is again a very touchy subject, because of the ramifications involved.
We intend to establish a civil defense corps (CDC) of trained citizen-members to protect
the common good, as is guaranteed by the US Constitution. Under normal circumstances,
the CDC will have nothing to do with the security of the community, because that is
already assigned to the recognized authorities of the US government. Its value is in the
event that the US government is unable to fulfill its security functions. The CDC is
responsible, that in the event of a cataclysmic occurrence, to maintain the perimeter
defenses of all properties of the community, to monitor the ingress and egress to each
community location at the main gate and any interior facilities as is needed, and to monitor
the external conditions surrounding the community. We will not take an aggressive
posture unless it becomes necessary to maintain the well-being and safety of the citizens of
the community. All able-bodied members of the community will be required to be a part of
the CDC for the purposes of receiving the training necessary to accomplish the tasks
assigned to it, if necessary. We are not saying that you have to be a professional soldier, but
you need to be able to develop the skills necessary to assist other citizens of the community
to defend our community if the need arises, similar in concept to out founding fathers’
vision of a citizen-militia. This is another area in which those who want to participate will
be asked to contribute their services in a committee that will structure how these
mandates are to be accomplished.
Religious Considerations:
Since the community is committed to upholding the Constitution of the US, no religious
activity shall be infringed unless there is a clear understanding that the practice of that
activity could potentially bring harm to an individual, impugn the reputation of, or bring
harm to, the community at large, or infringe on the rights of any other individual to
practice his or her faith in peace. Nor will any religion be given preference over another,
regardless of anyone’s opinion concerning political correctness. Any issues concerning
religion will be resolved by the judicial part of the governing body.
Educational Considerations:
The community will take a proactive stance on the ideas of education, both for the children
and adults. There is an existing local k-12 school district with good facilities that can be
attended by the resident’s children, and also home-schooling is a viable option for parents.
An educational committee will be established to determine the feasibility of creating a
private school for the Community’s children, on a voluntary basis. Participation in the
creative development of the educational process is another way in which those interested
citizens can be a part of the creative process.
In addition, there will be separate facilities for adult educational programs that will cover
as many fields of study as possible that are pertinent to the development of skill-sets
necessary for the community’s survival and continuity. All educational programs will be a
combination of classroom work and also remote study from the comfort of a person’s
dwelling, as we intend to connect all residential space for internet, and wifi networking.
The Community will also create a physical library with virtual access for the use of the
residents and their children.
We will also seek to establish as soon as possible child care for those who need it. There are
many different ways to accomplish that task, and those will be developed as the community
is built.
We will get certified teachers for the children’s education, and people experienced in their
fields will teach the adult continuing educational programs.
Preparedness Considerations:
Each resident family is to contribute a 6month supply of staple goods. A list will be
provided. This will be necessary until food production of the farm is up to speed.
Reasons to Bridge the GAPP:
The fact that you have requested this material means that you have a sincere desire to
protect your family from the myriad of apocalyptic catastrophes that may be looming over
the horizon. In order to determine where you stand on the scale of concern, here are a few
questions that you might want to ask yourself.
Have you had the feeling that something bad is coming? Is this something more than a
feeling, but as close to a certainty as you can get? Do you feel like you are seeing
handwriting on the wall? Do things you see on the news, or hear at parties, or around the
water cooler just reinforce what you think you have been seeing on your own?
Are you one of those people who are actually plugged in, and really know what is coming?
Have you ever thought to yourself, where can I go to protect my family? Why am I not
hearing the media talk about these issues with seriousness about what has become so plain
to you? Is your spouse telling you to stop talking about why the whole world is going to hell
in a hand-basket? Do the kids run screaming when they see you beginning to say
something?
If you ask yourself questions like; “What happens when the oil runs out? Will I still be able
to feed my family if the grocery stores don’t have anything on their shelves? Or what if I go
to the store, and I can’t afford to buy anything there? If I cant get gas, or its too expensive
to buy, how will I get to work? What if I lose my job tomorrow and I can’t find a new one
right away? What if the government starts to arrest people who disagree with them?”
Our cities are traps when you come right down to it. Our whole societal infrastructure is so
dependent on computers that if there ever was a scenario that shut them down, or caused
the data to be inaccessible to you, you may find it very difficult, if not impossible, to access
your money, or buy food or pay your bills, etc. Here in Phoenix, we have approximately 1
week to 10 days worth of food on their shelves. Water requires power at the pumping
station in order to get water to your house. Of course, if there is no waster, then it is very
difficult to flush toilettes, and then the risk of disease will increase dramatically. What if a
pandemic starts, then what do you do? Where will you take your family to safety? How will
you get there?
Think of how tied to technology we all are. Our whole society has become so highly
dependent on technology, that without its availability, it is inconceivable that we will
maintain any semblance of our style of living at all. Most of the products that we buy from
the store have such a petrochemical footprint that it is almost impossible to visualize that
we can do without it.
As you are aware, dependence on a very fragile technology-base is not the only
preparedness issue that we must face. There are just so many more issues as to be almost
mind-numbing. There is no way to adequately discuss each potential scenario within the
confines of this document. Our intent is that this Community will be able to act as a buffer,
or fire-wall, against any of the events listed below. The following list states a few, but is by
no means a complete list of all the possible dangers that we and our families face:
1. Naturally occurring, temporary disasters such as:
Severe Storms, Hurricanes, Tornadoes, Severe Flooding, Tsunamis, Wild Fires,
Earthquakes, Volcanoes, Landslides, Solar Flares, Coronal Ejections, Gamma Ray Bursts;
2. Man-made accidental, temporary disasters such as:
Chemical Spills, Bio-Hazard Releases, Radiological Incidents, Terrorist Incident
(foreign/domestic), Fires and Explosions;
3. Man-made intentional, non-temporary disasters such as:
Acts of War (nuclear, biological, chemical), Multi-Target Terrorism (nuclear,
biological, chemical), Economic Collapse, Civil/Social Unrest, Constitutional
Infringement;
4. Naturally-occurring, long-term or permanent disasters such as:
Drought, Pestilence, Asteroid or Comet Impact, Solar Radiation Increase or Decrease,
Climate Change (global warming/global cooling), Massive Ozone Depletion, Pole-Shift,
Pandemics, Over-Population, Peak Oil & Grid Failure;
Our project is concerned with primarily the following potential issues. Since we don’t
foresee a country-to-country war directly affecting the US and our being struck by
incoming nuclear-tipped ICBMs in the near-term future, our concerns are in the area of: 1)
terror attacks, whether domestic or foreign, on US cities using suitcase nukes or dirty
bombs, 2) domestic economic collapse, regardless of the cause, 3) a pandemic of any sort,
whether it is man-induced or a naturally-occurring phenomenon. These are the primary
issues we see as potentially looming on the horizon. To what degree any of the above-
mentioned events or series of events will affect how the US federal government handles
such a crisis is unknown at this time. We have seen a tendency for the federal government
to be reactive and autocratic when challenged by difficult events which does not bode well
for maintaining the status quo of our existing constitutional rights. There has been a
significant move toward nationalizing the means of identifying citizens and non-citizens
alike. The difficulty with a “Big Brother” scenario is that there are very little options
available for a long-term hiding out of anyone that the federal government truly wants to
find. With the almost certain advent of the North American Union, the ability to disappear
in the Canadian wilderness has all but been eliminated. We feel the best approach in that
scenario is to live above reproach, and be a part of the solution and not a part of the
problem. One advantage of the community approach is that through a pooling of resources,
it may be possible to develop a Plan B for a community bug-out to a planned, hidden retreat
to escape any federal government issues.
No matter which flavor of scenario, or combination of scenarios you believe will occur, the
reason that you’re still reading this document is that you are looking for a solution to the
crisis(es) to come. And it really doesn’t make any difference which one it is, the fact of the
matter is simply that society is very likely to crash sooner, rather than later; and whether
any one of the above scenarios happen independently, or whether they are only one of many
issues that precipitate a societal crash, it will most likely be a series of calamities that
occuwhich creates a domino effect.
An apocalyptic scenario, however unlikely, might very well happen if all the right elements
in the stew reach the boiling point at the same time. That story could contain all the
elements of a classic survival novel, such as; economic collapse, famine, domestic riots,
marshal law, hospitals closed, civil war, nuclear confrontation, and finally, total chaos in
America. This is not to say that we know how it will play out exactly, but at any point, a
succession of calamitous events could create a falling domino effect.
It would be nice to believe that in the event of a time of complete chaos that everybody
would behave themselves in a civilized fashion and work together for the betterment of all
concerned, but ask yourself this: “If your children were starving and/or dying of disease,
what would you do?” “If your neighbor had food and refused to share it with your family,
would you stand by and watch your family die, or would you take it by force if necessary?”
“If it became necessary to use deadly force, would you kill that person for it?” It's very easy
to answer No, I wouldn't do that," or “Yes, I would do what I had to in order to ensure the
survival of my family” Easy to say that you would never do the unthinkable when you have a
refrigerator full of food, a tank full of gas, a hospital down the street open 24-7, and no
reason to think tomorrow won’t be just as good. Isn’t it? But what if tomorrow is different?
You hear about bird flu, climate change, energy shortages, devaluation of the dollar,
government internment camps, and the list goes on and on. This only covers a part of the
potential things that can happen, but I think this gives you an idea of where we stand on
these issues.
Now, just ask yourself….Self, wouldn't it just be easier to think and plan ahead? The
purpose of the GAPP project is to do just that. We are creating a self-sustaining, self-
governing society of people who determined to live through the coming hard times, because
they have prepared in advance; however, they prepared not just to live, but to prosper and
thrive! And, to have created enough of a surplus that we can be a part of the solution by
assisting those who are in need. Read through our Frequently Asked Questions Section
(FAQ) to gain more insight. If you have a question that is not answered here, please feel
free to contact us at: (602) 595-2526, at azsurvive111@gmail.com, and
gappgroup1@yahoo.com.
FAQ:
Q: What is the GAPP, or Mesa Butte Homestead all about?
A: If you are like millions of others, and have some intuitive feeling that something
catastrophic is coming, you will want to be someplace safe. And if you plan to weather the
storm and come through it all in prosperity, you will need the support of a community of
like-minded people. Mesa Butte Homestead is a planned, sustainable community that aims
to survive and prosper through the coming hard times. We are not going to do this by just
eking out a miserable existence, but by living well, and having the resources to help others
to weather the same storm.
Q: How do I become a member?
A: First, you will need to apply. The application process consists of a few things. You
must complete the general application, meet the general requirements, and attach your
non-refundable Background Check and Medical Exam Fee (see the attached Price Sheet
and Fee Schedule for the amounts) for each individual as listed on the Mesa Butte
Homestead Price List. Remember, each person over the age of 18 will require a background
check. All members of your family will be required to pass a medical exam as well. We also
require that each person over the age of eighteen, complete a psychological profile test in
order to determine if you and they are a match to become a Community resident. The reason
we have your background checked is in order to determine if you are an upstanding, honest
individual. Once all these criteria have been met and your application has been accepted,
then you will pay your Capital Fee according to the attached Price List.
Q: Does this membership fee just cover me?
A: That depends on whether your party has more than one member. If you are in a
family, the amount of your Capital Fee will vary. If you check the attached Price List, you
can easily determine the amount you will need.
Q: Will my psychological profile test or any personal information be made available to
the public?
A: No, we do not sell your information to any third parties, and if you are declined, your
personal information will be destroyed. Since the privacy of our residents is of the utmost
importance, we will not retain any of your personal information not required by any
governmental agency, or that is needed by the medical staff of the Community. Any
retained information is kept strictly confidential.
Also, Mesa Butte Homestead is not a secret society; however, there are things we don't
want to broadcast to the entire world, such as our specific location, a detailed description
of our facilities, our assets, our defensive capabilities, and much other information that is
not to be general knowledge. These issues are all covered during your orientation visit.
Q: Why will you not accept single adults living together?
A: Since this is a community tailored to survive projected upcoming world events, we
need people of all sorts, married couples, families, single men and women, etc. Because we
feel that the family is one of the natural building blocks for a successful society, we believe
that willy-nilly cohabitation is a recipe for societal disaster. We have a general belief that
you cannot build a firm foundation on shifting sand. Therefore, we believe that couples need
to be affiliated in committed, mutually-exclusive, officially-recognized relationships. Use
your imagination, and you should be able to understand what we mean. If you're serious
about this and you're single, we welcome you with open arms. If you are able to find a mate
within the community, great; if not, feel free to look outside it, but remember that person
will have to complete, and pass, the background screening and psychological profile.
Q: Where is Mesa Butte Homestead located?
A: At this stage of the process, and in order to protect the security and privacy of our
residents, we do not disclose the Community’s exact location without an approval of your
application. Suffice it to say that it is located in a temperate climate in northern Arizona,
and after your application is approved, and before you have paid your deposit, the exact
location will be made known to you, and you can come visit the facilities. Again, we are not
trying to be rude, but think about it in this manner. When the coming storm hits, and you
are a member, would you want everyone to know where Mesa Butte Homestead is located?
Although we are not hiding our Community, we believe that discretion is the better part of
valor. We don’t believe that once you have become a member, you would want others
knowing your family’s exact location unless they had met the same requirements as you. In
addition to the location, there will be a great deal of other information given to you at that
time.
Q: Can you at least tell me if Mesa Butte Homestead is located in a cold climate, or
seasonal area?
A: Mesa Butte Homestead is located in an area of the country that has a four-season,
temperate climate, without a lot of snow. Our hydroponic greenhouses will provide for a
year-round growing season. So, if you're the kind of person that likes the change of seasons,
fall, winter, spring, summer you will probably be very happy.
Q: Is this a religious cult?
A: Not at all! The Community does not endorse any particular religious belief system.
As a resident of Mesa Butte Homestead, you may practice any religion, or belief system, you
wish, as long as you adhere to the following basic guidelines. 1) Your religion cannot harm
any other human being, regardless of their community affiliation; 2) Your religion cannot
harm any animal, as in sacrifices, bondage, etc; 3) You may not practice your religion in a
manner that could disrupt, offend or disturb other residents; 4) You may not try to
influence or expand your religion through solicitation of other residents; 5) Your religion
may not interfere with the normal daily operation of the Community’s efforts, nor can it
hamper, derail, delay, or cause waves among the residents at large, or cause a part of the
Community to fall behind in its duties or obligations to the rest of the residents of the
Community as a whole. One personality aspect to keep in mind is that the ability to get
along with people of different religions and cultures.
Q: So is this a hippy commune or a survivalist group?
A: The problem with labels is that they tend to create stereotypes that just do not
apply. The answer to this question is yes, it is a bit of a commune in one respect, and a bit of
a survivalist society in another. In actuality, it is a corporation where every resident owns a
piece of it, and receives proportional revenue from his or her efforts. We do not believe in
“free-love”, but rather love (respect and friendship) given freely. You will not find orgies
here, nor will you find this to be a highly regulated, dictatorial community. There is no cult
leader here who requires homage to be paid to him or her. The psychological profile will
identify those individuals or couples with these trait, and weed them out. If one actually
does get by, they will be discovered and removed from the Community. The Community
will operate on a purely democratic process, where each adult has one vote, on an open
voting process, where everyone has a voice. As stated above, we will follow the laws of the
land, unless a catastrophic event occurs, in which case we will utilize a tripartite form of
government that will consist of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Anyone
filling any of these positions will have been elected to it by a majority vote of the residents.
Q. How and where will we live while on property?
A. The housing for the Community will be constructed of refurbished cargo containers
of approximately 20’ in length and 9.5’ high. They will be grouped together to form the
interior configuration of each two-story residence hall. Some dwelling models are of a two-
story construction, while others are on the first floor only. Some use only one container,
while others use up to six containers. The containers only form the interior shells around
which the interior layout of each model dwelling unit is constructed. The exterior of each
resident hall will be formed of a concrete-clay-rock slurry mixture approximately 12’’ in
width in order to provide for an additional insulation factor.
The residence halls are actually designed off of the concept of Co-Housing Communities,
with one major difference. They are a hybrid between the concept of communal living, and
separate individual housing. This is why they are designated as residence halls, because
although each resident will have an individual dwelling space, the individual spaces are
contained within a larger building for efficiency and security purposes. In addition, each
resident hall has a communal kitchen and dining area, adult lounges, family lounges, teen
recreational facilities, exercise room, library, nursery and childcare facility, and meeting
rooms, etc.
Each dwelling model has a unique floor plan configuration. A couple of the models for
singles are designed around dorm-style living. Some family models have a kitchenette, most
have separate bedrooms, sitting areas, or living rooms, some have specific dining areas, most
have at least one half-bath up to three, family rooms, dens, and/or spiral staircases to access
upstairs and downstairs.
Q: How do I know this is not a scam?
A: Because if it were, than we would accept anyone that has the membership fee. You
will be issued stock in the Company which owns the Community and will receive copies of
all the associated paperwork that goes along with it. The company will issue periodic
financial reports to each of its resident/stockholders.
Q: Is this some governmental agency?
A: No.
Q: What are some of the criteria that would preclude me from being accepted?
A: We will not reveal all of the things that could preclude you from being accepted or
rejected, because we don't want people trying to fake their way around the application
process, thereby subverting the whole psychological profile. However, there are a few
things that should automatically come to mind, and we hope this doesn’t sound too harsh,
but here it is. Your application will not be accepted as an individual if you are blind, lame,
mentally retarded, mentally ill, have an extensive criminal background, drug addiction, or a
married adult without your spouse. Exceptions may be made based on extenuating
circumstances, and at the sole discretion of the membership committee. For example; if a
work-position you are applying for is not hindered by your handicap, it is possible to obtain
a waiver in order to obtain an approval of your application. An example would be as a
teacher in a wheelchair, but consider that exceptions are rare. Family situations are a bit
less cut and dried, because if a child is physically-challenged, the parents are very often
able to compensate, but under no circumstances can the community take-on anyone with a
degenerative or fatal disease, or someone who is so challenged in some way that they are
totally precluded from living a somewhat normal life, as in an Alzheimer’s patient. A
married person could have physical challenges which could be mitigated or accommodated
by his or her spouse. We're sorry if this sounds cold and uncaring, but in a survival
situation, we can't use a blind tradesman, or a quadriplegic farm hand. Remember, that if a
disaster occurs, the defense of the Community will be based on the number of able-bodied
men and women who have been trained as our civil defense corps.
Q: What if, for example, my wife, my son, and I are all normal, but my daughter is
physically handicapped, would that cause our application not to be accepted?
A: Not necessarily, it would depend on the extent of the incapacitation. If you had a
physically-challenged child that was able to function somewhat normally, that would
probably be allowed, but if that same child is in a persistent vegetative state, there is very
little chance that your application could be approved. This is because the Community’s
resources would not be adequate to deal with this type of trauma or rehabilitation. Again, if
this is your situation, our hearts go out to you, but we can't afford to accept residents that
could become a burden to the overall goal of the Community.
Q: What happens to me, or a member of my family, if I came into the society a whole
person, meeting the criteria of the application, and then become blind, lame, etc., Will I be
ejected from the Community?
A: There are two different timings at work here. 1) Pre-disaster, and 2) Post-disaster.
If a disability occurs Post-disaster; no, in fact, once your application has been accepted
by the Membership Committee, you are now a resident, and if such an occurrence should
befall you, leaving you blind, lame, or handicapped in any way, you couldn't be in a better
place. Let's say for example you're a member of the Community, with the position as an
electrician, and you become paralyzed, the Community would cooperate to re-train you for
a new profession, like teaching your trade. And even if that same accident injured you so
severely that you could not be re-trained, you will still be taken care of and treated as an
equal within the Community for the rest of your life. As part of your background check, an
MIB (Medical Information Bureau) health care record check will be run on you as well. In
addition, you will also receive a thorough medical examination prior to receiving your
approval. In addition, all residents will display respect and empathy for the elders of the
Community. Too often in modern societies, the elderly are put away, forgotten, or ill-
treated, and this attitude and practice will not be tolerated at Mesa Butte Homestead.
If a disability occurs pre-disaster, the Community is not obligated to a resident in any way
other than that they have paid their Capital Fee, and purchased their dwelling unit, and as
such will receive delivery of utilities. If a disabled, non-working Community resident pays
their Association Fee as agreed, they will retain their dining hall privileges; but the
Community has no obligations for any expenses to that individual other than those listed. It
is very important for all residents to make provisions for their own health care needs and
requirements before they actually need to use it, because the Community is not responsible
for their health care at any time pre-disaster.
Elderly abuse, spousal abuse, child abuse, and consistent violent behavior in any form, will
get a resident ejected from the Community and turned over to the proper authorities.
Q: What about other laws and rules?
A: The Community is democratic in nature, so the common laws that apply to any
civilized society apply here as well. As mentioned earlier, the Community is dedicated to
upholding the principles of the US Constitution, The Bill of Rights, and Biblical standards
of decent people, and as such it is also against our laws to rob, steal, assault another
member, vandalize, murder, etc. Post disaster, the Community will have it's own police
force, not to lord it over the residents, but to keep them safe, to resolve disputes should they
arise, keep the peace, and enforce the rules, etc. Keep in mind that you and many other
Community residents will serve in this capacity at one time or another, so be kind to other
members working on the Community police force, for the next time you meet them, they
may be working it.
Q: So what is the Community and lifestyle really like?
A: Everyone will have their own dwelling space with many of the conveniences that we
have all had for many years such as A/C, heating, electricity, and water; however, once the
Community goes off-grid, as in the instance of catastrophic event, everyone will need to
effect conservation measures concerning all the above. Radio, TV, and Internet will be
available, via pre-wiring, in each dwelling unit, as well as a number of other locations in
each residence hall, for as long as those external signals are able to be received. We will
also conduct periodic Community-wide social events, continuing education programs for
adults, and other fun events as contemplated from time to time.
All jobs being performed, are being performed for the benefit of the Community, and as
such will need to be performed on an as needed basis, not necessarily based on the
convenience of the individual. The basic idea we have for the average workweek is based on
7-8 hours per day, 4-5 days per week, based on need, with vacation time based on
availability and other factors, with up to 15 holidays per year.
We will strive to create a culture in the Community that will be as kind, non-intrusive,
and respectful to the environment as possible without losing sight of the fact that this is a
place of survival first and foremost.
Q: So what happens if I hate it and want to leave?
A: You have a few options. First, you are under contract to offer the Community a
“right of first refusal" concerning a buy out of your shares in the corporation at the price
you paid for it. If the Community chooses not to exercise that right, you may find a buyer
for your shares; however, the person you find must meet the criteria for becoming a member.
Or, if you do not want to sell out, but you don't want to stay, then you must find a caretaker
for your dwelling unit and your position within the Community that meets with the
Community’s criteria to stay. And lastly, you could simply leave. Be aware though, that by
just walking away and leaving your position unoccupied, you lose your shares in the
corporation and your place within the Community. You should know that the chance is very
high that the Community will exercise its “right of first refusal" and buy out your shares in
the corporation.
Q: Can I have built any type of dwelling I want?
A: There are stringent guidelines for the type of housing you may have within the
Community. The only types of dwelling units available are those contained in the residence
halls, and take the form of the model types and floor plans approved by the Community. All
the floor plans are unique in styling and features.
Q: You keep mentioning the Community as a corporation. In what sense is it a
corporation, and is it a corporation for profit?
A: Mesa Butte Homestead is indeed a corporation for both survival and profit. As an
example; let's say that the worst scenario doesn't happen, and the world economy doesn't
collapse, there is no terrorist attack, and everything we thought was going to happen,
doesn't. Your Capital Fee and all the other fees you paid to be a resident, is now worth a
considerable amount more, because we now have a working, sustainable farm and ranch
that is theoretically producing a profit. However, if what we believe will happen, actually
does happen, then you will be in a position to feed your family while others are standing in
bread-lines, you will have a job to do, while others are unable to find work, you will be in a
safe and secure facility, while the cities may have become death traps because of riots and
lawlessness. We haven’t said that you won’t put in a hard days effort, but the rewards to be
received are so much more valuable than the alternative.
Q: Why and how will my monetary contribution be worth so much more as time goes
on than when I initially made it?
A: The fact is that it is simple economics. When you made your initial contribution to
the project, the land was virtually undeveloped, and not producing anything of value, but
the minute that land is developed, it increases in value, and it continues to increase in value
as it generates a profit. The larger the profit, the more money it is worth. Please don’t
confuse the concept of value with cash flow. What we previously described concerns value,
but cash flow comes from profits. It may take a few years, but large farms are typically
profitable when run correctly, and we will have the very best management possible to make
decisions. You will receive cash flow profits derived from the projects you have participated
in.
Q: I've read the list of professionals you're looking for (see below) and I don't have any
of those skills, what could I do to have my application accepted?
A: The answer is that we not only need people with the skills listed on the Needed
Skills List, but we also need people to do the tasks that are more labor-intensive, as well.
The best way to ensure that you are in a position to best contribute is to list all the skills,
talents, knowledge, and experience that you have, and be detailed, because you never know
when you may have a skill that the Community needs, that you may think is unimportant,
but it might be really valuable to the Community. Once your application has been
approved and we have finalized all the paperwork, you will be assigned to an individual
who will be your Mentor for the first couple of months you are living on property. Their job
is to help you get acclimated to your new surroundings, and to help answer any questions
that you might have during this transition period. You will be assigned to a task, based on
your qualifications and job experience.
Q: So, if I'm not a Doctor, or a Geologist, or one of the other many professions you
listed, exactly what will I be doing?
A: You may be a dairy worker for a while, or a farm hand, or a hospital orderly, or a grounds
keeper, or a secondary mechanic, or a handyman, or a clothes maker, or one of many other
skilled and unskilled workers needed to keep the community running on a day-to-day
basis. However, other than the professional positions, everyone will rotate and need to learn
many different positions. This is for several reasons: To keep down boredom, and to secure
that position in case of death or sickness from another member, causing a void in that
position. You could even become a professional from education within the community, even
someone that is a skilled medical doctor. However, the community does not offer any
degreed educational course, other than a high school educational level.
Q: This sounds like there is a caste structure here. What if I resent the fact that while
I'm milking the cows, or tending the garden, a Doctor is sitting around the infirmary
drinking coffee?
A: If this is how you feel, then it would be better not to apply at all. This is why we
have the psychological profiles completed. Please think about this, if one day your life is
saved by one of those Doctors, how much will you resent them then? Furthermore, a caste
system will never be allowed at Mesa Butte Homestead. All residents, even the
professionals, will be evaluated by a psychological profile test, and if one of their tendencies
is to feel superior to other people, such as those who supply their eggs, repair their
plumbing, or clean the sewer system, then that person’s application will not be accepted.
All applicants will be accepted on their ability to get along with people from all
backgrounds, income levels, religions, educational levels, genders, and age groups. Mesa
Butte Homestead is a Community of people with one focused goal in mind, and that is to
design, create, implement, and maintain a survivable, sustainable, and profitable
Community. We are pretty sure that anyone whose application has been accepted, will
probably understand that in order to effect that mission, they will have to find a way to get
along with others. And finally, to drill this point home, any doctor, nurse, geologist,
satellite specialist, or anyone not willing to pick up an ax and chop wood, clean out a sewer,
bury trash, or any other community task in a time of need, would never be accepted.
Q: How will I get around?
A: Each resident is welcome to bring their own vehicle(s) to the property, and can use
them anytime they like. The Community will have its own fleet of various vehicles needed
in order to further its mission. We will begin producing bio-fuels as soon as possible, and
will convert as many vehicles as we can to that mode as quickly as is feasible. Each resident
will also be encouraged to use bicycles as a means of getting around. As soon as possible,
the Community may acquire a small airplane which will fulfill a great many functions.
Q: What if I'm approved, but back out after I've paid my membership fee, but before I
have joined the Community?
A: All of your membership fee will be returned to you guaranteed, minus a $350.00
administration fee.
Q: Why is the $350.00 administration fee not returned?
A: Undoing a person from the corporate structure and finding a replacement costs time
and money.
Q: So let me get this straight, for all the fees I have contributed, I get a home in a
sustainable community, free food, free electricity, free water, available medical, optical, and
dental care, plus I'm taken care of in my old age, and wind up wealthy?
A: Nothing in life is free, one usually exchanges labor in some form to gain an asset.
You and yours contribute with your labor in exchange for these services and goods, as do all
residents. This is not socialism, it is meritocracy.
Q: But how can all this be achieved for a low, low price?
A: We did not design this Community to make money from the initial contributions of
its residents. Our concern has been to cover the initial costs of startup. Profits will come
from the combined efforts of the residents in building and maintaining the farming and
ranching activities of Mesa Butte Homestead.
Q: What if I don't have the full amount right now. Can I pay it over time?
A: No, because we have priced everything at just above cost, you will have to pay your
contributions up front before you can take up residency at the Homestead.
Q: Does this mean that I cannot check it out first before I commit?
A: After your application has been accepted, you can visit the Community location,
look over the corporate paperwork, and get a feel for what life at Mesa Butte Homestead
will be like; however, all your travel expenses and accommodations will be your obligation.
If, after you have visited the Community, you wish to cancel your application, you can.
Q: Who actually runs this?
A: When you become a resident, to all intents and purposes you are an owner. As a
stockholder in the corporation, you will have the same rights and obligations as a
stockholder in any other corporation. Now, as in all corporations, this corporation has a
Board of Directors, Corporate Officers, and Managers who will actually perform the tasks
of running the day to day operations of the corporation, and Mesa Butte Homestead is no
exception. The individuals who fill these roles will be chosen and/or hired because they
have the appropriate skill sets to do the jobs required. If you want to know who it is that’s
behind this project, the answer is; people just like yourself, like-minded, intelligent people
who believe that there is a need for a Community such as ours.
Q: What if I'm too late, and all of your spots are filled, will you be doing a second
phase, or opening up another community?
A: The short answer is that we will add as many people and Communities as necessary
in order to assure the survival of as many people as want to participate. The more practical
question to ask yourself is this; “How much time is there before the balloon goes up, or the
economy goes to belly up, or the oil runs out?” These are the questions to ask yourself. If
there is time to do another similar project nearby, then we will, but you are looking at a
long lead time from beginning to end. Doesn’t it make more sense to get on board with a
project that is actually underway, rather than waiting to see about another that may never
get off the ground before its too late!
Q: Why do you say it could become too late? When do you expect everything to
collapse?
A: The most accurate answer is that it all depends on what event you are planning for.
We believe that Islamic Terrorists have cells in this country already, and if they don’t have
rudimentary nuclear weapons in their hands at this time, it is just a matter of a year or two
before they have them. When they do, they will use them in a coordinated attack against
the infrastructure of this country!
We know that the economy is in bad shape right now. Is a collapse imminent? We think
probably not without some sort of catalyst to get the ball rolling. Would a terrorist attack
do the trick? If it was large enough, yes.
Look, if you weren’t worried that something was about to happen, you wouldn’t have
started to look for a way to protect your family, such as ours. We have no crystal ball to see
through, but it doesn’t take anything more than common sense to see that this country is in
trouble from a great many different angles. We don’t expect things to go on much more
than 2-3 years more.
Q: What if I meet all the qualifications and my application is accepted, but I don't
have the money?
A: We have to make this very clear for all concerned. We have priced the minimum
participation cost at such a nominal amount, that unless you are trying to go for the very
best dwelling model, you should be able to fit the entire bill on a charge card or two at the
most. Because of the low, low pricing, we have no choice but to take every applicant on a
first come, first served basis. Besides, since we have no control over the timing of any major
disaster, we can’t afford to wait for someone to come up with their money. If money is tight
right now, you could always just pay the Capital Fee, and ensure yourself a place in the
underground shelter (However, that does not provide for anything other than space to put
your sleeping bag(s) and a few supplies). This way if a major catastrophe, then you at least
have someplace to get your family to that’s safe. You can then always save up for the
dwelling unit of your choice at a later date. Just remember, that we are not storing
containers on property in advance, they are brought to property only after a resident has
purchased them.
Q: What are the fees that we have to pay to participate in the community?
A: The first thing that has to be paid is the Background Check Fee, and the Medical
Exam Fee. Once you have passed these first two steps, then you must pay the Total Capital
Fee, or just a portion of it with a Sweat Equity Agreement to participate in the
construction of the project. Next, you will need to decide which floor plan best suits the
needs of your family, and pay for that. Then, you make arrangements to pay the monthly
Association Dues of $200.00, unless you are planning on living and working on property. If
that is the case, then the Monthly Association Dues are waived for as long as you reside and
work on property.
These costs are all listed on the Homestead Price List, which is available from your GAPP
representative.
Q: Are there other survivalist groups and communities out there?
A: Yes, and you can find them all over the Internet. We hope that by the time you are
reading our Position Paper and this associated paperwork, you have done your own
exhaustive research concerning the subject, and have decided that those options were not
exactly what you were looking for. We probably cannot please everyone we speak with, but
we have tried to accommodate as many varied needs and desires as possible, while keeping
your costs low and in line with our affordability objectives.
Q: Is the community already complete and ready to move into?
A: No, but the shelter is, and we are moving forward with the project as fast as we can
go. We do believe that time is of the essence, and you probably do too, or you wouldn’t be
reading our material.
Q: So how will you handle my money during this whole process?
A: The non-refundable Background Check and Medical Exam Fees will be paid-out as
needed. Once the deal is finalized, your Capital Fee(s) will be placed in an escrow account
until such time as they are used to pay for the payments on the property. Your Housing
Model Fees are used as needed to construct your dwelling unit. And, your monthly
Association Fees (if applicable) are due by the first of each month to pay for recurring costs
associated with the running of the Community. Once the Board of Directors has been
elected by the stockholders, they will cause a periodic assessment of the project’s financials
to be issued to each stockholder plainly describing the financial condition of Mesa Butte
Homestead.
Q: How quickly can I be approved?
A: Everyone's application will be different, and so the time it takes to get them
approved will vary, but the entire approval process should take no more than a month, or so.
Here is a sample of necessary skill-sets by group category:
I. Medical:
1. Doctor: General Practitioner – Acting pharmacist, OBY, GYN, Surgeon, dentist, etc.
2. Nurse: Registered – Maybe has some background in anesthesiology, ER, etc.
3. EMT or Medic: Both are trained in triage cases, and a medic w/ acute trauma,
battlefield medicine, etc.
4. Medical Records Clerk: Keeps the entire medical team organized (could double as
Nurse), etc.
5. Veterinarian: Generalist – Pets, farm animals, wild animals, disease, etc.
6. Undertaker: Mortuary Sciences, burial, cremation, etc
II. Mechanical:
1. Mechanic (Vehicle): Both gas and diesel background preferred; helpful if can do
vehicle electrics, etc.
2. HVAC/Plumber: Heat, air, water, and sewage are very essential things, etc.
3. Electrician: Exp in AC & DC Power w/ low voltage, as well as high voltage, wiring,
insulation, etc.
4. Machinist: Drilling, milling, lathe, fabrication, bender, etc.
5. Carpenter: Construction generalist
6. Mason: Block, footers, and foundation; concrete
7. Welder/Fabricator: Foundry, welding, blacksmithing
III. Agricultural:
1. Farmer: Generalist – Grains, vegetables, soils, crop rotation, fertilization, etc.
2. Rancher: Generalist - animal husbandry/breeding, care & feeding of various breeds
farm animals
3. Assistants for the farm and assistants for the ranch
4. Ranch Hands and farm workers will perform the general labor needed
IV. Security:
1. Officer: Military (high as we can get) – Tactics, strategy, planning, logistics, etc.
2. Officer: Military – Second in command – Tactics, strategy, planning, logistics, etc.
3. Pilot/Mechanic: Obvious
4. Technician: Electronic security installation, design, repair, CCTV, DVR, exterior
beam, etc.
5. Gunsmith: Repair of firearms, reloading, armory, etc.
6. Fireman: Fire prevention, fire-fighting, supplies, equipment maintenance, etc.
7. Security/Police: Needs a background in law Enforcement, security guard, and
electronic Security
V. Educational:
1. Teacher: Generalist
2. Librarian: Not only computer-savvy, but also can do manual card access, etc.
3. Spiritual Leader(s): Non-denominational, Pastor, Rabbi, Other, etc.
4. Physical: Exercise – Conditioning, well-being, trainer, sports injuries, etc.
5. PR/Communications: Community Newsletter, announcements, other settlements,
negotiator, etc.
VI. Technological:
1. Engineer: Structural – Concrete, Wood, Earth, & Steel
2. Engineer: Electrical – Design, build, & Repair generators, solar, & wind, etc.
3. Engineer: Hydro – Water, hydroponics, irrigation, water quality, etc.
4. Computer: Network generalist, hardware repair background
5. Communications: Radio, cellular, electronics, etc.
VII. Scientific:
1. Biologist: Generalist
2. Botanist: Generalist
3. Chemist: Generalist
4. Meteorologist: Weather detection, prediction, weather station on site and off site,
etc.
VIII. Domestic:
1. Seamstress/Tailor: Clothing – Weaving, loom, knitting, machine operation, cotton,
wool, dying, etc.
2. Tanner/Cobbler: Leather clothing, shoes, and other articles
3. Hunter/Gatherer: Procures various wild meats, wild fruits & vegetables,
mushrooms, greens, etc.
4. Cook/Nutritionist - Nutritional welfare of the group, prep, cook, kitchen, etc.
5. Janitorial: Maintenance of common areas inside and outside, cleaning supplies, etc.
6. Driver(s) w/ CDL License:
IX. Entertainment:
1. Radio Technician
2. DJs
The above categories designate 39 Individual with different skill-sets as essential;
however, it is possible that there would be a lot of cross-over with some individuals having
multiple skill-sets. I think that the tendency would be to try and eliminate, or cut back on
the number of people in the settlement, but I think that would be a mistake. If we have
multiple people with the same skill-sets then we have redundancy, which is the best
scenario. In the event of death or disablement, that skill would continue on.
Eagle Rising
