News Staff Report
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is an American federal holiday marking the birthday of Dr. King. It is observed on the third Monday of January each year, which is around King’s birthday, January 15. This year, the holiday is celebrated Monday, January 20.
This year marks Dr. King’s 91st birthday. The theme is “Beloved Community.” Dr. King popularized the notion of the Beloved Community and envisioned it as a society based on justice, equal opportunity, and love of one’s fellow human beings. The Beloved Community also describes a society in which all are embraced, and none discriminated against.
Concerned Citizens of Atmore coordinates events around the holiday and invites the public to participate.
Dr. MLK Unity Prayer Breakfast
The prayer breakfast will be held Saturday, January 18, 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Atmore Community Hospital Mayson Auditorium, 401 Medical Park Drive, Atmore. The cost is a $12 donation at the door or you may purchase a ticket from Unity House. This program includes prayers by local ministers and pastors, entertainment, door prizes, and, of course, breakfast.
Dr. King’s March/Parade and Memorial Program
The annual parade and memorial program will be held Monday, January 20.
Line-up is at 9 a.m. at Houston Avery Park, with the parade rolling at 10 a.m., and ending at Emanuel Faith Center (Pastor Wayne Johnson), 710 E. Ridgeley Street, Atmore.
For the memorial program, the guest speaker will be James Averhart of Mobile. The program will include presentation of the MLK service award, entertainment, dinner for everyone and other resources.
Please note the following information about the parade.
The entry fee is $10 per unit for all vehicles. All floats entering the contest must pay a $20 entry fee. Float judging begins at the park at 8:30 a.m. and judging ends at 9:30 a.m. Winners will receive $100 for first place; $75 for second; and $50 for third.
There is no charge for schools, Scouts or marchers. Parade applications may be picked up at the Unity House (mailbox), 313 North Main Street, Atmore.