“Ready in 3” presentation helps Joplin residents create disaster plan

JOPLIN, Mo. – Having a plan is key before, during, and after many types of emergencies. That reminder was a focus at an open house, presented by Ozark Center and the Show-me Hope Organization.

The presentation was called “Ready in 3.” Create a plan, prepare a kit, and listen for more information.

“If you’re prepared for any disaster, it can be a flood, a tornado, it can be a fire, an ice storm, a power outage, it can be a terrorist even or a mass shooting, it doesn’t necessarily have to be a disaster. So we just say emergency preparedness brings peace of mind,” said Director of Crisis Services Debbie Fitzgerald.

Emergency officials say it’s always a good idea to make sure prescription medication is inside an emergency kit.

Joplin Hope Center provides blueprint for communities recovering from natural disaster

JOPLIN, Mo. – Joplin officials are working on a digital information storehouse with source material from the tornado recovery plan, which has received national recognition.

The Joplin Hope Center for Disaster Recovery is a partnership between MSSU, Joplin Schools, and the City of Joplin. It’s designed to provide a blueprint for other cities recovering from a natural disaster. State Farm Wednesday made a donation to the project.

“Well it’s just good to remember how far we’ve come,” said State Farm Agent Jerry Sitton. “It’s bad to remember what it was. It’s good to remember what we can do and going forward.”

Officials say the donation will go towards equipment maintenance and new fiber-optic cables.