By Brett Callwood
The legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr will be celebrated nationally on Monday, Jan. 19, and the City of Gardena has multiple events planned to mark what is always a momentous occasion.

In advance of the day itself, Thursday, Jan. 15 will see the 43rd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Night take place at the Nakaoka Community Center, 1672 West 162nd St., Gardena, California, from 6:30 p.m.
Tagged, “Inspiring the dream for the next generation,” the guest speaker will be former state Sen. Steve Bradford, and the program will include essay winners presentations, entertainment, and light refreshments.
A parade will take place on Saturday, Jan. 17, from 10 a.m., from Marine and Van Ness Avenues to Rowley Park. Grand Marshal will be NBA basketball player Brandon Jennings, while community Grand Marshal will be Susana Medina, Chair of the Cinco de Mayo Parade and Festival.
The park festivities will feature bands, vendors, drill teams, community leaders, and much more.
On Saturday, Jan. 24, at the Rowley Park Auditorium from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Cultural Committee hosts a Financial Education Seminar.
“Empower yourself with practical financial knowledge from experienced professionals dedicated to helping you make informed decisions,” they say.
Seminar highlights will include, “Building a strong financial foundation, Understanding insurance and financial protection, Smart strategies for long-term financial security, and a Q&A with financial professionals.”
Featured speakers: Lauren Turner, Primerica Financial Services; Pamela Henderson, PHD Financial and Insurance Services; Chidera Oti, Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial Services; Joanne Brown, JB Real Estate Investors & Probate; Randy Russell, Real Estate Broker, RGE Realty/Circle Real Estate.
Light refreshments will be served. To register, email paulettefrancis2@hotmail.com or call 323-440-8933.
















