LITTLE ROCK — When Larry and Cordelia Banks saw some things going on with the youth in their community that they didn't like, they chose to do something about it.
As a result of those concerns, they have started the Youth Power Explosion, which will be held Wednesday through Saturday, Nov. 3.
"There are a lack of activities for young people in our community," Cordelia Banks said of the event, which will run parallel with the Malvern School District Fall Break. "That's the main reason we are doing this, but we also want to capture their attention and let them know they do have power. That power comes from the choices they make."
Cordelia's husband, Larry, is the pastor of Bethel AME Church, and that is where the event will be held.
"This is not a Bethel event," she said. "This is a Malvern event."
The event, which is open to kids ages 5 through 17, is limited to the first 100 to sign up, and the cost to register is $15 - which includes all meals, snacks and transportation for off-site activities.
"The $15 does not even cover all of the expenses, but we are getting sponsorships from local businesses to help us," Cordelia Banks said. "We have some registration scholarships available as well."
The event will feature activities and games as well as various worship services.
Preregistration has started and will continue through Monday. Registration forms are available from the mayor's office in Malvern, the Malvern Boys and Girls Club, Central Arkansas Development Council (South Main Street office) and the University of Arkansas Hot Spring County Extension Center.
Completed registration forms and payment of fees should be made at the same locations by 4 p.m. Monday. If space is available, on-site registration is $25 and will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Bethel AME Church's Fellowship Hall.
Not everything with the event requires registration.
The nightly Youth Power Praise Services and all activities on Saturday, Nov. 3, are open to the public.
The highlight of the event will be the "Powerparade"on Saturday, Nov. 3. The parade will run from Bicentennial Park down Arkansas 67 (Page Avenue) to Bethel AME Church, 1220 Carmichael. For more information, contact Larry or Cordelia Banks at (501) 332-6899 or Vicki Hale at (501) 332-5267.
Tri-Lakes, Pages 65 on 10/25/2007