Wednesday, January 23, 2002
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Wednesday, January 23, 2002 |
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Fayette pays homage to King By JANET
McGREGOR
The Fayette County NAACP, Fayette County school board and Peachtree City joined with local and state elected officials to honor the birthday of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Saturday. Sen. Donzella James served as the mistress of ceremonies, introducing the numerous speakers and entertainment. The U.S. Naval Academy gospel choir shared its talents with the crowd prior to an engagement at the re-opening of the Ebenezer Church in Atlanta. The Holly Grove AME church choir stepped in to entertain during the latter portion of the birthday commemoration program. The third annual Fayette County celebration took place at the Starr's Mill High School auditorium. A variety of speakers shared their thoughts regarding King's legacy. Speakers included Sen. Mitch Seabaugh, County Commission Chairman Greg Dunn, Peachtree City Mayor Steve Brown, East Fayette Elementary School Principal Dr. Faith Hardnette, and members of the Fayette County NAACP, Jaynelle Denson, John Jones, Frank Oakley and the Rev. Edward Johnson. Johnson, president of the Fayette County NAACP, is the founder of the local celebration. State Rep. Tyrone Brooks was the featured guest speaker. Brooks, a well-known human rights activist, spoke regarding his involvement with King prior to his death in 1968, sharing stories regarding Hosea Williams, Ralph Abernathy and various occurrences. He noted that "violence took our leader away from us," and said his choice for the theme for Georgia's celebration of King's birthday this year was to "stop the violence and save our children." He called for parents to stop teaching violence at home and for an end to violence, saying, "An eye for an eye will leave us all blind and injured." Brooks is chief executive officer of the Georgia Association of Black Elected Officials. NAACP President Johnson presented the Peachtree City Police color guard with a plaque of appreciation for the group's participation for the third year. John DeCotis, Fayette County school superintendent, also was honored for his continuing support of the event. State Rep. Kathy Cox and Fayetteville Police Chief Johnny Roberts also attended the event.
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