Minot Daily News ran an article today about Greg Wilz, North Dakota’s Homeland Security director and the speech he gave at a seminar yesterday.  According to the article (written by Marvin Baker), “Wilz talked about optimism, efficiency and being proactive.”

He gave kudos to first responders who were able to get to Northwood quickly after a recent tornado wreaked havoc on the town.  He also rated preparedness for disasters.  He grades North Dakota at about a C since 9/11, while the federal government gets a D+.  Local governments like the ones that responded to Northwood’s tornado were rated at a C+.

Individuals and families were given a D- grade. 

That means something for North Dakota.   Here in the Bismarck area we’re experiencing one of the most exciting economic booms the town has seen in decades.  We also have more of everything available to us than we’ve ever had before–information, material goods and even social resources.

So why not act on Wilz’s grade and make that go up, too?  Practical steps can be made on an individual and family basis.  It doesn’t take much to pick up an extra box of matches. stock a few extra groceries in the pantry or put a jug of water under the kitchen sink.  

One of Gov. Hoeven’s six pillars of growth is quality of life.  While we’re busy growing the quality of life across North Dakota, we have the chance to fortify and protect the quality of life we already have.     

What a wonderful opportunity.  Thanks to Mr.  Wilz for bringing this to out.