News Release

WINONA LAKE — A former NCAA All-American basketball player and Harlem Globetrotter will be the keynote speaker for this year’s Martin Luther King Jr. Community Event.

Melvin Adams will speak at the event on Monday, Jan. 17, at the Manahan Orthopedic Capital Center at Grace College in Winona Lake. The 34th annual celebration is organized by the Committee to Commemorate Martin Luther King.

Doors open at 11 a.m. and the program is scheduled to start at 11:30 a.m.

Melvin Adams

Adams was challenged early in life with negative circumstances; however, he dreamed of playing professional basketball. At the age of 13, his father passed away.

Adams’ hard work and dedication to his teams kept him from trouble. During these years, he led the district in assists and steals and averaged 16 points per game for Eisenhower High School’s Eagles.

Eventually, Adams joined the Harlem Globetrotters and was named Mr. Globetrotter multiple times. On March 17, 2000, Adams retired from the Harlem Globetrotters to fulfill a new dream – to challenge individuals to personal success through focus, work and persistence.

“We are honored that Melvin Adams has decided to spend his MLK Day in Warsaw,” stated CCMLK President John Bryan Lowe III. “We strive to bring dynamic, relevant speakers to our community to honor Dr. King. We know that Adams will offer a unique perspective that will be inspirational to many in attendance.”

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Community Event is free to attend and is intended for people of all ages in Kosciusko County. Children are encouraged to participate if they do not have school. There will be free lunches provided for the first 300 people in attendance.

Donations are welcome for those interested in partnering with the CCMLK for next year’s event which can be given in person on Monday or through the online fundraiser through MudLOVE at https://bit.ly/3zvvtk4. Contributors to the fundraiser can donate a monetary amount or purchase a bracelet to show their support and give back.

The Warsaw Community Schools choir will perform, and the ROTC will present the colors. Those unable
to attend in person can watch a livestream of the event on CCMLK’s Facebook page.

The CCMLK will have applications for the 2022 scholarship, which will go to a high school student in Kosciusko County who demonstrates extraordinary citizenship exemplifying the principles taught by King and who intends on pursuing a college degree. The winner of the scholarship will be announced in May.

Those interested in applying for the scholarship should contact their guidance counselor or visit the CCMLK Facebook page.