Fort Smith high school students noted for artistic efforts

story by Dylan Beschoner, Southside High School journalism student

The presentation of the annual Mayor’s Young Artists’ Achievement Awards took place on April 27 at a luncheon in the lobby of the Fort Smith Convention Center.

“It is a matter of honoring and paying tribute to people that contribute to the visual and performing arts,” mayoral office representative Susan Robles said.

Mayor Ray Baker honored five students from both local high schools. Southside seniors Justin Ball and Clay Kibler were recipients. Ball, who was honored for outstanding achievement in band and music, felt fortunate to receive the recognition.

“The mayor’s artist award is an extremely prestigious honor. I was surprised and very privileged to receive this award,” Ball said.

Northside recipients Shannon Wilson and Kelli Trammell were also acknowledged for their achievement in the musical arts and their dedication to orchestra.

“As the Principal Violinist in the Northside High School Orchestra, Shannon pushes her teammates to achieve a higher level of quality. This year’s orchestra is a better ensemble thanks to her hard work. Kelli Trammell has an incredible passion for music, which she shares throughout our community,” director of orchestra for Fort Smith Public Schools Stephen Hughes said.

Dramatic performance was Kibler’s area. He was rewarded for his work in drama and vocal performance.

“Clay has been exemplary in his responsibility to other people. This makes for a great sense of camaraderie in all of his plays. He exemplifies the actor’s awareness of the human condition,” Kibler’s drama instructor JoAnne Elsken said.

The final student honored was Lawrence Elizabeth Knox. She was recognized for her work in dance.