By Rupert Howell

“Peace Day” will be held tomorrow, Saturday, April 21, at Patton Lane Park with refreshments, games and fellowship from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Rev. Terry Townsend who manages the park and other local ministers have partnered with Concerned Citizens of Panola County, S.T.O.P. (Stop The Ongoing Problem) and Panola County Sheriff’s Department in support of the event with hopes to attract groups that have declared themselves rivals as well as children and adults throughout the community.

 Food and refreshments will be served throughout the day according to Roy Ellis, who belongs to both Concerned Citizens and the STOP organizations with Townsend stating that the sheriff’s department and others will be be cooking hamburgers and hotdogs during the afternoon.

Ellis said the purpose of Saturday’s event is, “… to organize an event to bring people of various ages and walks of life together to work joyfully and peacefully, knowing that the right thoughts and efforts will bring the right results.”

A meet and greet is scheduled to start the event followed by a devotion.

Games and activities will follow along with food and refreshments while guest Charles Latham, a motivational speaker from Grenada, addresses those attending.

Games and activities will resume following the speaker with the group organizers emphasizing food and refreshments will continue to be available.

The event follows the deaths of three local young people, all believed to be part of local gangs.

Townsend has been active in his church as pastor and community as local park director in attempting to keep youths focused with positive energy while the Concerned Citizens group attempts to address matters that have a negative effect on the community.

The STOP organization was formed following a January shooting death to help address the violence and its causes. STOP meetings are open to the public with the next meeting scheduled April 28 at the Sardis Courthouse at 9 a.m.

Townsend emphasized, “The main thing is praying together.”