Dari’s Day Aug. 25-27

By submitted, 07/20/17 1:27 PM

PRESCOTT – Almost 17 years ago, the citizens of Prescott witnessed one of the most heartbreaking tragedies in the history of its small community.

On October 2, 2000, a devastating house fire claimed the innocent life of four-year-old Jadarian Andréz Woodberry. The explosion was allegedly due to an undetected gas leak located outside of the home that Woodberry and his mother were preparing to move into. Several residents spoke out claiming they had continuously reported the scent of gas throughout the neighborhood prior to the incident, but were rejportedly always told no problem had been found. However, almost immediately after the child’s death, numerous gas lines were flagged and repaired throughout the entire city, thus ensuring a safer environment for the remaining residents.

In October of last year, shortly after the 16^th anniversary of the event, Mayor Terry Oliver had a heartfelt conversation with Woodberry’s mother.   He struggled as he tried to express his feelings regarding the disturbing manner, in which her child had passed away. The mayor assured the woman that her son would never be forgotten. Oliver then began to contemplate the possibility that Woodberry’s death may have inevitably spared many other lives in the community. “I think it is time that we all celebrate Jadarian’s life, and acknowledge the impact that his death had on our town,” stated the mayor. Oliver also decided to officially declare the child’s upcoming birthday weekend “JADARIAN WOODBERRY WEEKEND”.

Therefore, it is being asked the entire city of Prescott, as well as surrounding areas, to come out and support our first annual “JADARIAN WOODBERRY WEEKEND”, which will take place August 25-27. Together, we will all celebrate the life of our little hero in a “festival style” event dubbed, “DARI’S DAY”. During this time, Mayor Oliver will present a proclamation in Woodberry’s honor for his involuntary, yet fateful sacrifice, as well as the impact it made in our community. “I feel that this is well overdue,” Oliver said. “Therefore, Jadarian Woodberry Weekend will continue to be recognized every year, for as long as I am mayor.”

The festival will kick off Friday, August 25, (which is Jadarian’s actual birthday), with free hot dogs, cupcakes, and drinks at The Gala, located at 122 E. Elm St., from 12-4 p.m. Afterwards, there will be a balloon release at Woodberry’s resting place, (DeAnn Cemetery). The family is welcoming all who would like to attend. Later, there will be a street dance for the youth. “Dari’s Day” will resume at 10 a.m., on Saturday, August 26, at the Prescott City Park, where Mayor Oliver will present Woodberry’s honorary proclamation. There will be plenty of fun for everyone.This includes several games, challenges and activities for all ages, a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, a live concert, bounce houses, (and much, much more). Food, drinks, and t-shirts will also be available for purchase. The weekend will be wrapped up on Sunday, August 27, with a softball tournament and a special ceremony which will include individual tributes, the recognition of Dari’s Day sponsors, award presentations, and one last balloon release. (A more detailed itinerary can be expected in the following weeks.)

Also, any donations and/or sponsorship from all willing businesses, individuals, and/or organizations who are interested in helping to make our first will be accepted, as well as future, Annual Dari’s Day a huge success. If interested please call 870-887-2210 or 870-887-2100 for more information.