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SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT
LIVING THE DREAM
Locals can celebrate diversity while honoring the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
STORY: JAMES COMBS PHOTOS: COURTESY OF CHRIS HAMILTON
Ihave a dream.” Those famous words were forever etched into history when Dr. Martin Luther King “
Jr. delivered his powerful address during the March on Washington in August 1963. An advocate of nonviolence, Dr. King used the power of words to appeal to the hearts and conscience of an entire nation and strive for racial equality.
The legacy of this civil rights activist continues to shine bright 45 years after his death. That will be evident this month as people of all races and backgrounds in Lake and
Sumter counties come together in recognition of the great dream he had for all mankind.
The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Commemoration Committee, in collaboration with Lake-Sumter State
College and school systems in Lake and Sumter counties, has planned various events to celebrate the life and legacy of a man who brought hope and healing to America.
Activities, ranging from student literary contests and uplifting church services to festive parades and a 5K run, are planned. All are designed to help people realize the values — courage, truth, and justice — that defi ned Dr. King’s character.
“He was a hero to have taken on such a wonderful cause,” says Chris Hamilton, who serves as equity offi cer at Lake-Sumter State College and is one of the organizers for the event. “This event is an opportunity to continue the furtherance of America in living up to its creed that all men are created equal. We want this event to represent the overall cultural profi le of Lake and Sumter counties, and we invite people of all races and cultures, as well as religious groups, civic groups, government offi cials, and various organizations, to attend.”
HERE IS A LISTING OF INDIVIDUAL ACTIVITIES TAKING PLACE THIS YEAR:
COMMUNITY BREAKFAST
Jan. 10 from 7 to 9a.m. Leesburg Community Center 109 E. Dixie Ave., Leesburg, FL 34748
Festivities kick off by celebrating and recognizing six individuals from Lake and Sumter counties who have done outstanding work in their communities. Government offi cials, members of social clubs, and school system employees in both counties will attend this popular event.
SECOND ANNUAL STUDENT LITERARY CONTEST
Jan. 11 from 6 to 8p.m. Lake-Sumter State College, Clark Maxwell Building 1405 County Road 526A, Sumterville, FL 33585
Students from Sumter County middle schools and high schools will present their original essays, as well as oratorical, art, and skit/theatrical presentations — all of which celebrate this year’s theme, “Advancing the Dream.” The top three fi nishers in each category will win cash awards, trophies, and certifi cates.
5K RUN FOR YOUR DREAM
Jan. 11 from 7:30 to 9:30a.m. Lake-Sumter State College Gymnasium 9501 U.S. 441, Leesburg, FL 34788
This event features runs for several age groups, including a kiddie run. T-shirts, water, and snacks will be provided to participants. Following the run, a celebratory activity will be held inside the gymnasium, where competitors will be awarded trophies and certifi cates.
ECUMENICAL SERVICE
Jan. 12 from 6 to 8p.m. Mount Calvary Baptist Church 1012 E. Line St., Leesburg, FL 34748
During this uplifting event, parishioners from various denominations throughout Lake and Sumter counties will come together and celebrate Dr. King’s religious roots. There will be performances by choirs, soloists, praise dancers, and youth groups.
Jan. 17 from 6-7:45p.m. Lake-Sumter State College Kelly Convocation Center 9501 U.S. 441, Leesburg, FL 34788
The artistic talents of middle school, high school, and college students will be on display during this annual contest. Students compete in the categories of essay, oratorical, art, and skit/theatrical. Winning entries will receive scholarships, cash prizes, trophies, and certifi cates.
This multicultural parade and march will feature fl oats, motorcycles, cars, bands, military servicemen, law enforcement offi cers, beauty queens, social club members, and animals. The event is open to all who wish to honor Dr. King’s memory and teachings.
GOSPELFEST
Jan. 18 from 6 to 8p.m. Piney Grove Baptist Church 4839 E. County Road 468, Wildwood, FL 34785
This exciting event features soloists, choir members, and praise dancers from various local churches who will perform in honor of Dr. King.
ROYAL AND WILDWOOD MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. PARADES
Jan. 20 at 10a.m. (City of Royal) Jan. 20 at 11a.m. (City of Wildwood)
Neighboring communities Royal and Wildwood present two parades that commemorate the ideals and beliefs of Dr. King.
DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY FESTIVITIES
Jan. 20 from 10a.m. to 3p.m. Genesis Center 1414 W. Main St., Leesburg, FL 34748
Students and their families will celebrate with art, exhibits, a step show, food, and much more.
DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. BANQUET
Jan. 20 at 5p.m.
Royal Community Center 9569 County Road 235, Wildwood, FL 34785
Royal was founded in 1865 and is one of Florida’s oldest African-American communities. Leaders and residents of this historic town will gather to celebrate Royal’s rich history and honor its outstanding citizens.
For more information about this year’s activities, please call Chris Hamilton at 352.365.3592 or email her at hamiltoc@lssc.edu.
