Shelter offers safe haven for ice storm victims

Last week's ice storm forced thousands of families from their homes, as downed lines and power poles left the entire region without electricity. The lack of power, and in some rural areas water, left many residents looking for shelter.

In Piggott the first shelter was set up at the high school, but later was moved to the Eastern District courthouse. Volunteers noted that 13 people slept there Wednesday night, as many were unaware that the shelter was open, but that number grew to near 70 on Thursday.

"The people here have been just great," volunteer Linda Dixon noted of those on hand, "anytime we need something done one of the folks here jumps up and does it...we seldom have to ask."

There was also a great response from the community, as individuals brought a steady stream of bed clothing, food and other items for those displaced. Local businessman Stan Morris cooked hundreds of pizzas in his wood-fired oven and brought them to the courthouse,and the Harris' offered the use of the stoves at Donna's Country Kitchen for preparing meals. The Piggott Diner and Sonic also helped feed the hundreds of linemen and volunteers while others purchased needed items or just cleaned out their own cabinets for supplies.

Volunteers also transported those who needed to come to the shelter, with Jason Cluck coordinating much of those efforts. Cluck also worked tirelessly at the shelter throughout the week, and according to other volunteers "overall kept things running smoothly."

Shelter officials also offered thanks to Tammy and James McMullin for their help along with the Hart and Crawford children and their families for help serving food and cleaning up.

Pat and Danny Self were also on hand for much of the week, and Sunday morning Bro. Self preached a church service in the courtroom for those in the shelter and several who came in from home.

Dozens, if not hundreds, of others made similar sacrifices and offered help though it's impossible to document all the efforts made. A release from OEM coordinator Travis Boyd and Clay County judge Gary Howell noted "there are many "heroes" in times like these. These heroes are the people who never receive recognition. In times of crisis they go about doing good things that help individuals and communities as a whole. We are blessed to have lots of these heroes in Clay County. With God's help and with the help of these heroes we will survive this storm and will be a stronger people because of it."

The county leaders also offered their thanks to Gov. Mike Beebe and his staff, to the Arkansas Department of Emergency Services and the Arkansas National Guard for help in securing generators and other supplies.

With the power still off in most of the area volunteers were preparing to feed people at the Piggott Community Center. "We plan to feed 150-200 for lunch and dinner each day until power is restored," shelter coordinator Jamie Cluck noted.