State Celebration of Dr. King's Legacy Scheduled for January 18

ALBANY, NY (01/14/2010)(readMedia)-- Governor David A. Paterson today announced that the state's tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. will be held on January 18, 2010 at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center beginning at 9:00 a.m.

"The commemoration of the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. can help America light the world as a global model for democracy, economic and social justice, and the rule of law," said Governor Paterson. "Dr. King was a vital figure of the modern era. The movements and marches he led brought significant changes to the fabric of American life. Today, it is more important than ever that we remember the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and that we keep his memory alive. Once again, as we are every year, the State of New York is pleased to join our entire nation to honor the 25th celebration of this auspicious day and this remarkable man."

The Memorial Observance will commemorate Dr. King's dream of a vibrant, multiracial nation united in justice, peace and reconciliation, and will afford New Yorkers an opportunity to learn about his historic civil rights legacy. This is the 25th year that the New York State Office of General Services (OGS) has coordinated Dr. King Day events in Albany.

Commissioner John Egan said, "Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. taught by example to ensure his ideas blazed a trail for the future generations. It is my hope that this 2010 King Holiday Observance sparks a flame that burns deeply in our community, and provides inspiration to our young people to keep marching forward, each and every day."

The featured speaker for this year's celebration will be Reverend Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, President of State University of New York College at Old Westbury and Pastor of the Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem.

The Observance features talented performers from across the Capital District, including 10-year-old recording artist Anthony Gargiula of Glenmont, New York; the Troy High School Jazz Band, and musical selections highlighting various Capital Region choirs and soloists.

Attendees are encouraged to take part in all of the day's activities by: visiting the displays of art work in the Empire State Plaza Concourse; participating in local community volunteer activities; and marching in the Beloved Community March to the Martin Luther King Memorial in Albany's Lincoln Park.

The Memorial Observance will be broadcast live from the Convention Center at the Empire State Plaza in Albany from 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. with the support SUNY and NY Network, check your local cable company for availability.

For more information contact: (518) 486-9866, or visit: http://www.nyking.org/

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