By By Lisa Tindell
news editor
This year’s annual celebration to honor the life and legend of Martin Luther King Jr. will feature a local community band as part of the festivities.
Organizer Joe Watson said the Martin Luther King committee is planning a parade, special services and a time for reflection as the historic figure is remembered.
Watson said the Hillcrest High School Band from Evergreen has committed to participate, as well as a special community band being formed to join the parade.
Watson said horse riders and motorcycle groups are also planning to participate in this year’s event.
The parade participants are asked to gather behind BankTrust’s downtown location, Watson said.
Watson said the parade route will wind from behind BankTrust down Henderson Street to U.S. 31 and on to Sowell Road. The parade will turn on Martin Luther King Drive and end at Sportsman Park.
A Sunday evening program will round out the weekend’s activities at the AME Zion Church on Sowell Road, Watson said.
Anyone interested in participating in the parade or the being a member in the community band is asked to contact organizers of the event. Deadline for float entry in the parade will be Friday, Jan. 15. Awards for first, second and third place floats will be presented.
Contact Watson at 809-5423 or 867-4630. Other contacts for the event include Jackie Hubbard, who can be reached at 867-6486; Regina Watson at 363-1524; Dot Stewart at 867-5686; and Evelyn Daniels at 867-7182