Waverly participates in the MLK luncheon 01/25/2005 January 17 is one of the most important dates in American history. So important in fact, schools and workplaces come to a halt. Who is so important of this honor? Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
People have done many things in honor of his memory and legacy. For the 20th year, The Greater Lansing Holiday Commission had a luncheon to celebrate the life and times of Dr. King, and serve for a way to bring the Greater Lasing Area community together to honor his legacy.
On the board of commissions for his 3rd year was our own Waverly High School deputy principal Mr. Thomas. Mr. Thomas has participated in the MLK luncheons for over a decade. He started 11 years ago when Waverly Middle School teacher Mrs. Shapiro, then a chairperson, asked Mr. Thomas to be a judge for the essay contest. From then on, Mr. Thomas stayed committed to the group. When asked why he has stayed with the committee for so long, he replied, "I can't think of anything, or anybody that I would serve more than Dr. King."
Featured at the luncheon were the MLK essay winners, two of which who are students at Waverly High School. For the competition, each person had to write an essay based on the question, "Where are we, and when will we overcome?" along with a list of all the extra curricular activities they are involved in, and community service they have participated in. The winners received $500.00 scholarships.
One of the essay winners was Senior Jamila Gladney. She chose to participate in the contest because she liked the question and thought that she had a pretty good answer. In her essay, which she completed in the course of several days, she wrote how she felt that, as African Americans, we have the resources to overcome, but have lost the drive to do so. When asked how she felt about the whole experience, Gladney commented, "I would like to encourage students in the future to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity. I learned a lot while getting paid!"
The 1st place essay winner was Senior Adam Graddick. In Graddick's essay, he chose to focus on, discrimination, and the fact that it still is in existence. When asked why he wanted to participate in the contest, he replied about his strong feelings towards the lack of equality in our nation, and how he wanted his voice to be heard. "It is everyone's job including myself to see the continuation of Dr. King's legacy and the fight for the equality of all races," said Graddick without any hesitation.
The commission presented the Greater Lansing community with selections at the luncheon from Gospel recording artist and award-winning Vocalist, Ms. Vickie Winans. And the mistress of ceremonies was our own WLNS News Center 6 News Anchor Sheri Jones.
All in all, the luncheon was worthwhile. It was nice to see people, young and old, honoring our history.
Takesha Leavell.
Waverly Staff and Students participate and attend the recent MLK Jr. Luncheon at the Lansing Center.
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