The event will be hosted by Danni Starr, radio host and 2007 Ms. Minnesota International. The program features local and international speakers and artists including Darrell Thompson, former NFL star and executive director of Bolder Options, an activity-based youth mentoring program.

The MPRB will present its “Living the Dream” award to the Minnesota Twins for their support in the community. The annual award is given to a local individual or group for their unselfish dedication to improving the lives of Minneapolis residents and the Minneapolis park system.

The event is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to donate. Refreshments will be available following the program. For more information, please visit www.minneapolisparks.org or call 612-230-6400.

Powderhorn and Whittier Park Celebrations

Powderhorn Park and Whittier Park will celebrate MLK Day at their recreation centers on Monday, Jan. 17. The public is invited to attend these free events with food, games, prizes and entertainment. Stop by Powderhorn Park from 11a.m. – 2p.m. or Whittier from 1 – 3p.m. The event is free; no registration is required.

Feeding the Dream Community Food Drive

The second annual “Feeding The Dream” Community Food Drive is underway at recreation centers throughout the city. Residents are encouraged to drop off non-perishable food items at their local Minneapolis Park Recreation Center. The community service project was initiated in the fall of 2009 as a thank you to Hy Rosen, recipient of MPRB’s 2010 Martin Luther King, Jr. “Living the Dream” Award. Rosen, who serves as the executive director of the Greater Lake Country Food Bank (GLCFB), received the award for his unselfish devotion to improving the lives of Minneapolis residents and the Minneapolis park system.

This year’s food drive concludes at the 2011 Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration on January 17 at ML King Park, 4055 Nicollet Avenue South. All donations collected will benefit the GLCFB of Minneapolis.