"Newton Falls is leading the way to show that they support," said resident Rick Kerlin at Wednesday's city council meeting. Having lived in Newton Falls for almost a quarter-century, Kerlin has seen plenty of good times and bad times.

When we asked him if he's ever seen the city as united as they are behind Ukraine, Kerlin replied, "never."

Kerlin says the crisis in Ukraine has brought out the best in the city and its people - even when it comes to bearing the brunt of the economic consequences.

"It's hard to pay more (for gas), but we must sacrifice because we are America," he said. 

"When it comes down to it, it's all about freedom," added mayor Ken Kline. He, along with all five members of city council, say that love of freedom brought them together to put a resolution on Wednesday's agenda to show support for Ukraine.

The resolution affirms the city's support and its residents to the war-torn nation, adding that they believe Ukraine should "enjoy a peaceful country free from foreign invaders."

It's something Kline hopes the rest of the Valley will demonstrate.

"The world's not the big place everybody thinks it is, and we all need to bind together as brothers and sisters and do what we can," he said.

Ukrainian flags are now almost as visible as the black and orange in Newton Falls. Prayer vigils have been supported by one of its police officers, Igor Olefir, who has family in the war-torn nation. 

Now that Wednesday's resolution passed unanimously, Kerlin believes it could be just what the city, the Valley, and the nation need to get us through such a divisive time in our history.

"We are all united - democrats, republicans..." he said. "We must, as Americans, back Ukraine."