Meet the Neighbors: Barrett Harrison

Meet Barrett "Barry" Harrison, a lifelong Blytheville resident who manages the Arkansas Aeroplex, located on what was once the Blytheville Air Force Base. The Arkansas Aeroplex, with its proximity to the Mississippi River and major rail and highway systems, has become an important part of economic development in Mississippi County and the state of Arkansas. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette columnist Rex Nelson recently called the Aeroplex "an underutilized asset" for the state and predicted big things ahead for the facility. Barry and his wife Lyn have four kids and three grandkids, all living in Northeast Arkansas.

Let's get to know him a little better:

Q: Where are you from?

A: I was born in Blytheville. Aside from brief stops in Little Rock, Bentonville and Jonesboro, I am a lifelong resident of Blytheville. 

Q: What do you do for fun in Mississippi County?

A: When Lyn and I aren’t at the lake or enjoying British car shows, you’ll find us at the local barbecue restaurants. You can’t beat Mississippi County’s barbecue and catfish!

Q: What are some of your favorite things about this area?

A: The people. The best people in the world live in Mississippi County.

Q: What’s something that might surprise people about Mississippi County?

A: We are the nation’s largest steel producer and are rapidly emerging as a leader in renewable energy. Our area boasts one of the nation's largest airplane runways and is now home to the National Cold War Center (NCWC). Designated by Congress as the nation's Cold War museum, the NCWC will be the only federally designated, privately funded museum in Arkansas.