Some day, we're going to be hit with a disaster. It likely won't be the same level of devastation that struck New Orleans and the Gulf Coast a couple of years ago, but we will get hit. Eventually.

Maybe our disaster will come in the form of a massive ice storm that knocks out power throughout the region. How about a repeat of the Palm Sunday tornadoes that ravaged Elkhart County in 1965 or a repeat of the 1978 blizzard?

Or a massive outbreak of the flu that puts a third of the work force in bed at home or a hospital?

Something's going to happen.

Based on the lessons learned in New Orleans - still struggling to get back on its feet two years after it was ravaged by Hurricane Katrina - it's apparent that we must be prepared

That realization led to the creation of a local organization called the Business Continuity Group several months ago.

Working closely with the St. Joseph County Emergency Management Agency, its purpose is to ensure the sustainability of the community following a disaster.

"People need to recognize the importance of preparing," says Larry Schumacher, general manager of the Mishawaka Wal-Mart and co-chairman of the organization.

Such planning is not only the responsibility of the government. Everyone - including families - should have a plan.

And businesses must get on board.

"If businesses don't survive, the community won't survive, he says. "The evidence of that is overwhelming."

On Thursday, the Business Continuity Group in conjunction with the St. Joseph County Emergency Management Agency will hold a Disaster Preparedness Expo from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Penn Township Fire Department and Training Center at the corner of Elm and Jackson roads, south of Mishawaka.

There will be an opportunity to meet emergency personnel, learn what resources and equipment are available and listen to some discussions about emergency planning.

It's important to ensure that every business is up and running as quickly as possible following any disaster, Schumacher says.

The paychecks that companies provide are the lifeblood of the community.

And a prepared business also has the wherewithal to provide support to the rest of the community when its own house is in order.

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