Monday’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day activities in Brookhaven were a fitting tribute to the legacy of the late humanitarian and civil rights leader.

     The local King Day observances were part of a special day of celebrations held throughout Mississippi and the nation Monday.

     Activities included a parade and a program sponsored by the local branch of Alpha Phi Alpha. In observance of the theme, “Rejuvenating the dream through education and service,” awards were handed out to area residents who have demonstrated outstanding service to our community.

     It is particularly fitting that the awards are named in honor of the late Jesse Buie, a classroom teacher, football coach and principal of Alexander High School and later Alexander Junior High School for many years.

     Recipients of the Jesse Buie Community Service Awards were Rose “Polly” Powell and Bobby Bell. Powell is well known for founding and continuing to oversee the ‘O’ Foundation, and Bell was recognized for his work with the Boys and Girls Club. Both recipients certainly exemplify the two-part theme of the day’s observance.

     Both service and education are vital to making a better community for us all.