Mangano To Host Series Of Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebrations

Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano will observe the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a weekend of programs in celebration of his life. County Executive Mangano, in conjunction with the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration Committee of Nassau County Inc. and Nassau County Office of Minority Affairs, has planned a trio of events that pay tribute to the leader of the American Civil Rights Movement who was assassinated on April 4, 1968.

“Dr. King’s message is one of equality, justice, peace and community. Those values continue to live in all Americans today, 45 years after his life ended. This holiday commemorates his values and ideals for a better America. His fight to ensure that all Americans share the same freedom is one we all share responsibility in achieving.”

On Saturday, January 19th, the African American Museum of Nassau County will present “Noble Lofton, Buffalo Soldier” a play by Michael Green that provides insight into the post-Civil War experience for African Americans through anecdotes and song. The event begins at 8:00 p.m. at 110 N. Franklin Street, Hempstead, NY. The donation is $5. Admission is free for students with ID. Contact Joysetta Pearse for information at (516) 379-5466.

An Ecumenical Interfaith Service is planned for Sunday, January 20th, at 7:00 p.m. at Antioch Baptist Church, 94 James L L Burrell Avenue, Hempstead, NY. There will be a Free Will Offering. Additional information is available by contacting Rev. Phillip Elliott (516) 572-1933.

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 28th Annual Scholarship Awards Luncheon will be held on Monday, January 21st, at 11:30 a.m. at the Marriott Hotel, 101 James Doolittle Blvd., in Uniondale. County Executive Mangano will serve as Honorary Chairperson for the event. Robert Walker, Chief Deputy County Executive and Rev. Phillip Elliott, Deputy County Executive for Minority Affairs, will serve as Honorary Vice-Chairmen.

Proceeds from the luncheon, which will honor Rev. Sedgwick Easley, Pastor, Union Baptist Church in Hempstead, Clara Gillens Eromosele, CEO, Progressive Management Group Inc. in Roosevelt, Gary Shapiro, Detective Lt., Commanding Officer, Community Affairs, Nassau County Police Department, and Zahid Syed, Chairman, Nassau County Commission on Human Rights, Board of Commissioners, will assist local high school seniors seeking higher education. The purchase price of a ticket is $60. Register early for best seating. For additional information contact Rodney McRae at (516) 571-5977.