| 114th Year, 22nd Issue | Thursday, January 9, 2003 | Sparta, North Carolina |
The year 2003 will mark the first official observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day in Alleghany County. In marking the occasion, an event, dubbed the "Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration," is planned as well. While the holiday is officially recognized by the county on Jan. 20, the celebration will begin at noon on Wednesday, Jan. 15 (the date of King's actual birth) on the steps of the courthouse in Sparta.
Afterwards, participants are encouraged to go to the Alleghany Senior Center for refreshments and an informal gathering. Also included will be a display of photos and books about the late Reverend King.
"Because last year was the first year that the county recognized it to make it an official holiday, I just kind of felt like we need to do something as a community," said Leslie Choate, one of the event's organizers. "My idea was to get as many people as we could together and basically sing two songs on the courthouse lawn and have a few moments after that for reflections of what the day means to those in attendance."
Choate said the event is open to anyone who wants to attend. "Everyone is invited and we welcome them to come out and sing. I do not want it to be an all black event," Choate commented. "Martin Luther King just happened to be a black man who fought for the equal rights of all men. I just want us all to gather and practice what he preached: Peace. I hope that maybe that it will escalate into an even bigger event for next year."
The two songs to be performed by the crowd are "We Shall Overcome" and "Lift Every Voice and Sing." The words and music will be available for those in attendance. For more information concerning the event, contact Choate at 657-8424.
|
Get the rest of this article in this week's issue of the Alleghany News! Back |