Truman Memorial Building will host a community celebration to commemorate Martin Luther King, Jr. Monday, January 19. In addition, the John Olivarez Scholarship essay contest will be held.  

Beginning at 7 p.m., the celebration will include keynote speaker Reverend Sam Mann. Mann, who served at St. Mark Union Church for 40 years, marched with Dr. King many years ago. 

The scholarship contest will award 300 dollars to the selected Independence high school student who completes a 500 word essay on this year's featured topic: "Act Like You Care". The scholarship contest is open to Independence high school seniors who plan on attending a four year accredited university, community college, or vocational school. 

An essay contest for Independence 8th grade students will also be available in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. The essay winner will receive a family pass to Adventure Oasis Water Park. More information is available at independencemo.org. 

The 2015 celebration will mark the 28th year of this event which is sponsored through a partnership with the City of Independence, The Community of Concerned Citizens, the Human Relations Commission, Ministerial Alliance, The Examiner, and the Local Investment Commission (LINC). 

Download the flyer here.

Celebrations in Kansas City

A special service to commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. will be held at Community Christian Church in Kansas City. Speakers from Kansas City and Detroit, Michigan will address the public during the ceremony. The event is free and open to the public. 

Learn more here.