In the wake of last week’s devastating winter storm, our community has been tested—and has answered with courage, competence, and compassion.
As more than 90,000 residents sat in the cold and dark, an army of first responders, city crews, utility workers, and volunteers went to work.
Today, while a few thousand are still waiting for full restoration, we pause to say thank you.
Our deepest gratitude goes first to the first responders who braved ice, downed lines, and dangerous roads to answer calls for help.
Police, firefighters, EMTs, and 911 dispatchers worked long shifts to keep us safe, check on the vulnerable, and respond to emergencies that did not stop just because the power did.
Their calm under pressure helped prevent tragedy in a week that easily could have turned deadly.
We also owe a tremendous debt to city public works crews and the Entergy linemen and women who have labored around the clock to restore service.
Clearing fallen trees, repairing damaged infrastructure, and rebuilding sections of the grid in freezing conditions is grueling, often thankless work.
Their hard work brought nearly 90,000 customers back online in just days, which is why most of us are warm today.
Equally inspiring has been the response from scores of civic groups, churches, and everyday Good Samaritans.
In Monroe, West Monroe, and Richwood, governments opened shelters, coordinated resources, and made sure those without family or a warm place to go were not left alone.
Volunteers served meals, handed out blankets and water, and went door to door checking on neighbors.
There were no reported deaths in our area. That is not luck; it is the result of preparation, professionalism, and a profound sense of shared responsibility.
In a dark week, our community spirit shone bright.
On behalf of the 90,000 helped, and those still waiting, we say thanks for a job well done.
