UNITY

uni·​ty
the state of being united or joined as a whole

I see it in all of our coverage areas, when one is downtrodden, hurting or in need–we step up. This week, I was again witness to this favor.

Neighbors opening their homes to others who had no water, a mayor in a neighboring town calling to offer his assistance, businesses donating food and water, and residents checking in on one another. It’s truly a beautiful thing, our commUNITY.

Mansfield Mayor Buddy Black extended his gratitude towards all those who worked to locate and repair the leaks. Additionally, Sebastian County Emergency Management Director Travis Cooper, Scott County Emergency Management Director Keaton Davis, Sebastian County Judge Steve Hotz, Scott County Judge Brian Jones, former Scott County Judge James Forbes, Jim Barkie with ARWA, Jeff Pyles and Stephen Moore at James Fork Regional Water, the National Guard, Fire Chief Michael Smith and members of the VFD, those who assisted in providing water to the Mansfield Juvenile Treatment Facility, Harps, Caseys, Sonic and West Fraser.

“I am thankful for our employees who have worked long hours to try to restore the water to our residents,” stated Black. “I really appreciate the citizens who called in with suggestions and especially for their patience and understanding. Our fire department, Chief Michael Smith, Rick Thomas, and Jason Teague, went above and beyond the call of duty, working tirelessly to distribute water. Also, Jim Barkie with the Arkansas Rural Water Association.

Mayor Black made himself available to those with questions and concerns, consistently engaging workers for updates to pass along to residents, as well as ensuring that water was made available to those who needed it. “I saw so many different faces and talked to so many people, and I am afraid I might miss someone, but I do appreciate everyone working together.”

At the end of the day, well the difficult and trying few days, water was restored. We are left with the reminder, however, that when difficult times come, and they will, we can count on our family, friends and neighbors – our commUNITY!