The deadline to enter the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. essay contest is approaching fast. The 3rd annual Martin L. King, Jr. Unity Scholarship Celebration will be held at Christian Chapel Life Center in Demopolis on Jan. 10 at noon. An extended deadline to enter the contest is Jan. 7. Judge Marvin Wiggins of Greensboro is slated as guest speaker at the celebration, said Annie Robertson, the event’s chairperson.

“It is our goal to unite school and community and pay homage to Dr. King’s memory by granting at least six needs-based scholarships to eligible junior and senior high school young men in Marengo County and surrounding areas,” said Robertson.

To qualify, an applicant must write an original two-page, double-spaced essay and share his essay with a selection panel. Students may expound on one of the following topics: Realizing the Dream: From King to Obama; Is America fulfilling King’s dream in the 21st Century; King’s Dream: How can I carry the torch in the future, or King’s Dream: What does it mean to me as a young man in 2009?

Essays may be submitted to a high school counselor or e-mailed to wmartin@westal.net.

“While the public is cordially invited, all young men are invited as special guests,” said Robertson. “All high school teachers are asked to encourage junior and senior boys to apply and attend.”

Friends of Theo Ratliff Activity Center, Bethel Baptist, Hope Hill and First Mt. Pleasant Districts are co-sponsors of this program. Robertson also stated the program appreciates any donations to fund the scholarships. For more information, call 334-295-5261.