DARDANELLE, Ark. — Dardanelle, a city that was nearly devastated by the historic Arkansas River Flood, came together once again today for the first-ever Flood Fest.
Community members not only reflected on how the floodwaters affected the community but also wanted to thank the neighbors who lent a helping hand.
The three-hour celebration had food, live music, activities for the kids and even a kangaroo – all for free!
Dardanelle Mayor Jimmy Witt said after seeing all of the work the volunteers did, an idea popped into his head.
“I was sitting in my office and I really hadn't had time to read all the posts that were coming in and really look at all the pictures from the volunteers so I was doing that and it hit me… we got to do something for these people before everybody forgets about it,” he said.
Witt said he was in awe of how his city came together during the devastation and he wanted to show his appreciation.
“It's something I wanted to do for the community to give back, for everything they did for us. To have all those volunteers come and have a day to enjoy and put a little closure to this event that we've had,” he said.
Teresa Crouch, who has lived in Dardanelle for 40 years, said this event was exactly what the city needed.
“It’s just awesome that everyone could come together and be as one,” she said.
Crouch said the flood was devastating to watch unfold but the community of Dardanelle got the city through it.
“Everybody had each other’s backs. Everyone was for each other,” she said.
Witt said the people who make up this community are one big family and their selfless actions don’t go unnoticed.
“The best way I could describe it was if I put out a post and ask everyone to dig me a ditch from right here, right now… to the river, they would argue over who is going to get the shovel and that's the honest truth… that's how these people are,” he said.
Witt got a surprise gift at Flood Fest from his grateful community. They gave him a painting resembling their resilient city conquering the flood waters. Witt said their story can teach everyone a lesson.
“I've told everybody and they'll hear me say it again today. Dardanelle Arkansas taught a nation how you're supposed to treat people and take care of each other, so that's what Dardanelle is,” he said.