Gordon said one of the significant things she has noticed by watching the families of the miners over the past week is how they have bonded with each other, despite any language differences.

"They are one family now," she said.

Even those who do not speak English are able to communicate with the mayor and others just with their glances, looks and hand gestures that say, "Hang in there," and "We're praying for you," Gordon said.

With some of the setbacks, however, the families feel like they're like a movie that gets played, stopped, rewound, and played again with the same cycle happening over and over.

"They can't go forward," said Huntington Councilwoman Julie Jones, whose husband is a local miner with more than 30 years' experience and whose son is also a miner.

Gordon also thanked the governor and members of Utah's congressional delegation, who she said had all been very supportive. She singled out Rep. Jim Matheson in particular for his efforts not only to offer support but to go out to events in the community that have been happening this week, meet with residents and show his support.

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E-mail: preavy@desnews.com