The National Disaster Response Team would like to announce that it will opening it's first ever Chapter in North Dakota. Congratulations to the men and women who want to help people without the politics & hassles that are associated with this endeavor.
Welcome aboard: North Dakota Chapter of the National Disaster Response Team
March 1 & 2: International Disaster Response and Recovery Summit (DRRS) - I am Speaking on March 2nd, Subject will be: Individual and Organizational Preparedness
Event Summary: First, I would like to take this time to address every person who attended the DRRS. Be you a vendor or other, (Offers a Bow of Respect to every individual who was there) it was truely a great honor on behalf of the NDRT and myself to meet you all.
I met alot of people there those two days. Men and Women who believe in what they are doing and from what I saw have a right to be proud of what they are doing.
Like anyother event in life, you will always have one or two things that are not your "Cup of Tea". That doesn't make them good or bad, just not what you are interested in. Well going into this event I wasn't sure what to expect, but after being there, I wasn't disappointed.
I had the chance to meet with people and representatives from all aspects of a disaster Response and Recovery. I learned about aspects I didn't even know existed.
I also was a guest speaker. And that, in it's self, was an adventure, since I didn't know what I was going to say. But when I was introduced, I stood up, addressed everyone, and went with my gut instincts. Yes, I am proud of my presentation (Was so nervous about it all, I forgot to set up the video camera. My apologies to all) not because of the fact I did it, but because of the reaction of everyone afterwards. (All Positive) It was the reaction of the individuals afterwards that told me my message had gotten heard. And that is worth being proud over.
Would I attend another DRRS? Yes I would. Because like this one, I would enjoy meeting old and new friends in the Disaster Response arena and continue to exchange ideas and views that will benefit those we have chosen to help most, Disaster Victims and those who help them.
As you may or may not know, on February 17th, 2008 in Autauga County, central Alabama, a town called Prattville was struck by an F-3 Tornado. The Damage was extensive as the base of the tornado was about 400 yds wide and it's path took it through residential and businesses alike.
There were many miracles that day, the first of which was No deaths. Another Miracle, was the out pouring of community support immediately after the tornado had passed and long into the night. Local and surrounding Businesses (that had, or had not sustained damage) offered what ever help they could to the relief efforts. Volunteers and volunteer organizations poured into the community to offer help, and one such organization that stood out was CERT, a group of citizens ( Contact your local EMA or OEM to find out more) from the community and surrounding communities that came forward and helped with many aspects of the disaster relief effort.
As for the NDRT, it was an honor and a priveledge for us to have been apart of the disaster response and relief effort put forth for the people of Prattville.
This letter was received from the Auatauga EMA office:
The NDRT wishes to thank the Autauga EMA for this letter of recognition and support. This letter and the one above are the greatest honor any organization can receive.
