Fayette County Commission Vice Chairman Pota Coston, the first African American to win a commission seat here, will serve as the grand marshal of the 17th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration Parade on Monday, Jan. 19, the local NAACP announced.
Festivities to honor King in Fayette County will begin at breakfast on Monday in the parking lot of Fayette County High School, and include a parade and then a program at 11:30 a.m. inside Sam’s Auditorium. The celebration continues Monday evening with a special concert featuring several well-known acts.
At right, above, Fayette County Commission Vice-Chairman Pota Coston. Photo/Submitted.
The NAACP’s plans for the day include a program welcome speech from Fayette County School Superintendent Dr. Joseph Barrow, who will address the state of education as it relates to the dream of MLK that all children will have equal access to education. The program begins at 11:30 a.m.
Student artwork based on King’s life will also be displayed at Sam’s Auditorium and guests will be welcomed by the music of the Sandy Creek High School Jazz Band. Fellowship of Love Church will provide music throughout the program and provide a dance presentation.
Special awards and recognitions of students and schools are planned and trophies will also be given to parade participants.
Mistress of Ceremonies is Adrienne Johnson, CEO of Infinity Global Connections, LLC., an Atlanta-based company that empowers individuals, companies, and organizations to achieve their greatest potential.
Keynote speaker is State Representative Virgil Fludd, chairman of the House Democratic Caucus. Fludd serves House District 64 which includes parts of Fayette and Fulton counties. He serves on the Ways and Means, Regulated Industries, Small Business Development, Ethics and Banking committees.
The parade and program are sponsored by the NAACP in connection with the school system and several local businesses. It is free and open to the public.
