Suffolk Reporter

A luncheon honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was held on January 20 at the Bellport Golf Club in Farmingville, New York. The event, titled “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence 365,” was part of a special “Day of Service” organized by Brookhaven Town.

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico led the annual holiday gathering, expressing gratitude to co-hosts Hon. Valerie Cartright, a Supreme Court Justice, and Marvin Colson from the Brookhaven Town Branch of the NAACP. He also acknowledged Faith Baptist Church and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., as well as Community Sponsor "Dare to Dream Community Outreach" for their support.

Entertainment during the luncheon included performances by the Faith Baptist Church Choir under Rev. Diane Jones' direction. More than 350 attendees participated in readings, liturgical dances, and musical selections celebrating Dr. King's dedication to nonviolence and justice.

The event included collaboration with the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless. Supervisor Panico and other town officials prepared care packages for those in need, reflecting Dr. King's advocacy for community service as a means to uplift society.

The gathering featured various notable figures including Amani Khan, Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig, Councilman Neil Manzella, Councilwoman Jane Bonner; co-host Hon. Valerie Cartright Lorraine Mazza Kuehn; Cheryl Felice; Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay; and Town Clerk Kevin LaValle.

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