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News-Sun photo by CHRISTOPHER TUFFLEY Jakarius Lindsey thrilled the crowd with his praise dance during the entertainment at Avon Park.

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published: Wednesday, January 18, 2012

MLK Day celebrations both fun and thoughtful

By CHRISTOPHER TUFFLEY

christopher.tuffley@newssun.com

SEBRING -- Celebrations honoring the memory and dreams of Martin Luther King Jr. occurred throughout Highlands County over the weekend, from Highway Park to Avon Park.

The largest, and longest, festival took place at Memorial Field in Avon Park, organized by the Community Redevelopment Agency's Southside division.

Hundreds of people came and went Friday through Monday, listening to talented teens Friday night as they talked about the importance of King's legacy today; taking part in a Sunday night candlelight vigil remembering those slain by gun violence; and enjoying a weekend of fun and music featuring gospel, Motown and rap.

Kelvin Sheppard, vice-chair of the CRA advisory board, said he admired King for many reasons, but mainly because of "his devotion for civil rights, his willingness to fight through adversity. There has been progress," he added, "a new dynamic; if not we would not be standing here talking."

John Shirer, 64, is old enough to remember the tumultuous days of change personally. He was in the seventh grade in South Carolina when the schools there were integrated.

"Mom even signed the papers that I could go," he said. "There were only two of us going to a white school. I was out there doing the time.

"In high school I played football for them. I was the only black guy in the stadium." He thought a minute then laughed, "We got people today you can't tell which they are, black or white."

Marvin Haynes, deep frying tilapia, paused when asked what King might say about the celebration. Then he grinned, scooping up a portion of fish. With all the barbecue and chicken wings being served, Haynes said, "I'm quite sure if he were here he'd say, 'fish at last, fish at last.'"

Pauline Massaline, an older participant, sat in the shade. She said she hoped young people would be "peaceful and submissive to God's will. Seek Jesus and be blessed."

Arthur Turner, sitting next to her, leaned over and added, "Respect each other and follow King's example."

Celeste Breylinger, of Avon Park High School, was named grand champion of the oratory contest Friday night. Marlene Fils, of Avon Park Middle School, was the middle school champion.

Children were the focus of the Washington Heights Concerned Citizen's memorial program in Sebring, held at the Bountiful Blessings Church of God parking area with plenty of inspirational speeches, music and food.

"He fought for freedom," said Jaikeira Walker, 7.

"He was trying to stop racism," said Nehaeh Lenton, 6.

"He was very nice," said Chalee Williams, 7.

Andrea Mathis, one of masters of ceremony, called children up to the microphone, some to sing, some to tell what King had inspired them to aspire to.

One young girl wants to become a pastor, another a judge, a third a lawyer.

Torrie Spry, 7, wants to be a police officer. Jarmyheer Fletcher said, "He changed the whole entire nation and never gave up. I want to be a leader just like he did." She proved it by looking an adult straight in the eye and shaking his hand firmly.