PB student’s work appears in Playfest
Poetry written by Traron Henderson was featured in the Bishop Boswell Playfest 2024. He will receive a royalty for his work, according to a news release.
Henderson, a junior at Pine Bluff High School, is a Pathways to College Scholar, who began in the program during middle school.
His poem, “Rap,” was named a winner in the genre of poetry. The selection was published in the 2023 edition of Scholar Voices, the Pathways to College annual literary magazine, which gives all participants the opportunity to have original works of art and writing published nationally.
McKenya Dilworth-Smith produced the Bishop Boswell Playfest through the Morning Bishop Theatre Playhouse in Gary, Ind., where she is executive director. Dilworth-Smith is also a Pathways teacher focusing on bilingualism.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The Playfest performers dramatized the scholars’ work as part of the celebration of excerpted plays. In its 15th year, the 2024 Playfest focused on the themes of family, history, loss and love.
The Playfest is a platform for novice and emerging playwrights of color and diverse perspectives, writers, and poets to showcase works in progress. Youth and community members come together to stage scenes from various diverse and ethnic backgrounds.
Held at Indiana University Northwest on Nov. 9, the Playfest was produced by J&M Excursions LLC, according to the release.
Christmas Parade set Dec. 3
The city of Pine Bluff will present Mistletoe Magic, the annual Christmas Parade, at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 3 in downtown Pine Bluff.
“The parade promises to be a spectacular showcase of holiday cheer, featuring beautifully decorated floats, lively marching bands, and local organizations,” according to the release. “Participants from across the community will bring this theme to life, offering family-friendly entertainment for all ages to enjoy.”
Mayor Shirley Washington shared her excitement for the event.
“The Christmas Parade is a wonderful opportunity for us to come together as a community, celebrate our traditions, and share in the joy of the holiday season,” Washington said in a news release. “We look forward to seeing everyone come out to enjoy the magic of the season.”
The event will feature a panel of judges to evaluate and award the best floats and performances in various categories. Attendees are encouraged to bring their families, neighbors and friends to experience the event.
Local businesses and organizations interested in participating in the parade are encouraged to sign up early, as spots fill quickly. For registration details and more information, contact Mary Liddell at (870) 643-2383 or marylddll@yahoo.com or Mar’Tavius Proctor at (870) 730-2004 or mproctor@cityofpinebluff-ar.gov .
Arsenal issues noise alert
Residents living close to the Pine Bluff Arsenal should not be alarmed if they hear loud noises in the morning and afternoon coming from the site Saturday.
The noise will be from cannon fire being conducted during opening and closing ceremonies for the White Hall High School JROTC Raider Competition to be held at the Arsenal throughout the day, according to a news release.