We need more people like Perry Boyd in our community and leading businesses in our market.

The Gumbo Pot is a strong locally-owned restaurant, in business and in devotion and commitment to serving and giving back to the community.

Whether it’s the United Way’s Supper on the ‘Sip event or the Buckos Bar-B-Que Challenge, the above is true. Those who live in Warren, Sharkey, Issaquena and Humphrey counties who were affected by the recent historic flood and supported by the Bar-B-Que Challenge Boyd organized know this. As The Gumbo Pot’s owner, Boyd is always there and ready to support those in our community who are in need. Boyd sets a good example for us all.

This week, in the midst of a health alert involving his business, Boyd stood up and did what he was supposed to do.

He worked with state health officials first by following their guidelines and then to address any potential issues. After working with the official who inspected his restaurant, no issues were found with his establishment and he received the highest possible score, an “A” rating on The Gumbo Pot’s permit to operate.

The way Boyd and his team handled themselves last week only made the strength more apparent.

The health alert is not the fault of Boyd or anyone at his restaurant. When the unfortunate situation occurred, they acted properly, decisively, responsibly and most of all, in the best interest of their customers and patrons.

The state was required to notify the public, but doing so put Boyd’s business at risk and that is a shame.

What we can do as a community is to stand up in the belief of our health officials and especially for Boyd in support of him and his business.

Our continued patronage will demonstrate that.

We need more people like Perry Boyd in our community and right now, Perry and his team at The Gumbo Pot need our community’s support.