The Rev. Gary Smith, a long-time lead pastor of Fielder Church, will deliver the keynote address when the Arlington MLK Advancing the Dream Celebration kicks off four days of festivities on Friday, Jan. 15 in the Bluebonnet Ballroom at UT Arlington.
Rev. Smith has given more than 23 years of service to the Arlington community. His motto is to live his life before an audience of one for his glory. He will speak on this year's theme, "The Strength to Love: Tough Minds, Tender Hearts."
The Arlington MLK Celebration Committee has also commissioned Christian artist Lance Brown for a live painting performance during the banquet. Brown will complete a large-scale canvas painting of Dr. King's dream in less than 20 minutes in front of an audience. The canvass will tell a story of hope, love and inspiration. This painting will be auctioned along with a series of black heritage U.S. postal stamps. Proceeds will benefit Arlington MLK community programs and scholarships.
Also during the Awards Banquet, scholarships will be presented to area youth who are excelling in art and literature. The Arlington community will also celebrate the nominees and recipients of the MLK Advancing the Dream Awards in Community, Education and Government. Tickets for the banquet are on sale and can be purchased atwww.UTATickets.com. Valet parking is available.
Winning art, essays, and complete list of Arlington MLK Events can be found by visiting www.ArlingtonMLK.com.
MLK ART CONTEST WINNERS
First Place: Thien Bui, Arlington High School, Senior
$1,000 Scholarship
Second Place: Kate Knight, Martin High School, Sophomore
$750 Scholarship
Third Place: Kaila Garcia, Ousley Junior High School, Eighth Grade
$500 Scholarship
MLK ESSAY CONTEST WINNERS
First Place: Sierra Salsa, Arlington High School
$1,000 Scholarship
Second Place: Ky Perkins, Arlington High School
$750 Scholarship
Third Place: Khirstyn Vu, Juan Seguin High School
$500 Scholarship
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