By BROOKE GOLDMAN

RESERVE – Martin Luther King Jr. Day resulted in celebrations throughout the River Parishes, including an annual parade in St. John the Baptist Parish.

The Rev. Forell Bering of Bethlehem Baptist and New Pilgrim Baptist churches in Reserve was one of the many leaders in the parade and an organizer of the event.

“Drive in the Dream” was this year’s theme and members of the community came together at 8 a.m. Monday at Our Lady of Grace Catholic School to prepare for the parade.

The mile-long march began at 10 a.m. and climaxed at the Reserve Housing Development office.

The East St. John High School, West St. John High School and the Glade School marching bands performed during the parade and walked proudly in celebration of King’s memory. Dancers from Bethlehem Baptist Church also performed.

“It was awesome,” said Bering. “It was just what the doctor ordered.”

Anne Harvey, owner and broker of Anne Harvey and Associates, is a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church and was at the parade to show her support and help out.

“As a church, we collectively came,” said Harvey.

“We anticipated more marchers this year because the weather is gorgeous, last year it rained.”

Harold Blood, one of the Deacons at Bethlehem Baptist Church, said he has been walking in the parade for two years and this parade was the “first vision of the pastor (Bering).”

“We continue where King left off and what he left behind,” said Blood. “It brings everyone together.”

“As a Baptist ministry, we continue his dream,” added Blood.

Owner of Terence Day Care Learning Center in Reserve, Valencia Hill Green, marched with children from the center and carried pictures and banners recognizing King’s achievements and his “I Have A Dream” speech.

“After so many years, we set aside a day to honor a man who gave his life for the cause,” said Harvey. “He believed and it didn’t matter how rich he was. As a black business woman, I know the things he stood for and he got me to where I am today.”

Harvey has been in business since 1999 and also owns an investment company that refurbishes old homes.

“He did so much to get us freedom,” said LaPlace resident and parade watcher Malinda Juarbe. “This was my first time at the parade and my daughter who goes to Our Lady of Grace (Catholic School) told me about it. It was really nice.”

“I am especially pleased that the school (Our Lady of Grace) teaches so much about this man,” Juarbe added.