By Jennifer L. Warren
POUGHKEEPSIE – The authentic, black and white, charismatic image enveloped the large screen in front of the room while the footage unraveled an iconic man articulately delivering one of the most transformative speeches in history, as the silent crowd intently listened in to the still very relevant content nearly 63 years later.
That man, Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was giving his “I Have a Dream” Speech, a part of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, in front of 250,000 people, on the steps of Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. His potent verbiage, passion for service, shining example of a strong, moral character, along with courageous commitment to equality and justice for all, have served as an unwavering inspiration to countless lives. In that very spirit, Catharine Street, Inc., a cherished, community focused Poughkeepsie hub, once again celebrated King’s indelible imprint at Friday’s 35th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast.
Tracing back to 1992, 150 individuals, uplifting their communities, have been honored at the popular, well-attended Breakfast. This year, three more-along with three Youth Honorees- were added to that elusive, prestigious list. First among them, was a cornerstone Poughkeepsie institution: The Poughkeepsie Public Library District, earning the Richard K. Wager Inclusive Champion Award. Wager, a long-time publisher of The Poughkeepsie Journal and area civic leader, recently passed away in December.
“King had us ask ourselves what we are doing for others; today we are honoring a group that celebrates that every day,” said Lisa Wilson, the presenter of this award, who described books as so much more than things on shelves, but containers of magic. “The library commits to diversity, equity and community, a place where there is something for everyone; in a world of so much change, it remains a place of unity where all are invited to the table.”
Two pioneer individuals were recognized for their selfless commitment and tireless efforts aimed at uplifting each of the lives they touched. Maureen Kangas and Bruce Mann were this year’s Community Honorees. Kangas, whose resume includes; hotelier, mentor and volunteer and Mann whose career spans; facility manager, child care aide and volunteer, both were deeply touched by the honor.
“I can’t think of a better community to be involved with than this one,” Kangas said, who was humbled by the gift of being recognized by her peers. “I truly am blessed because I had a job I loved where every person meant something to me,” said Kangas. Then, that woman who was introduced as someone who loved to work with people and possessed a truly eclectic skill set, left her audience with three guiding mantras in life: “Respect, kindness and pay it forward.”
Mann, lovingly known by youth who adored him as “Mr. Brucie,” volunteered countless hours assembling and fixing toys as well as in countless other memorable capacities while serving as a priceless mentor, kept his remarks short and sweet.
“It’s all about the children,” smiled Mann.
Three youth honorees were also celebrated for their dedication to the principles prioritized and lived by MLK. Part of their selection process included crafting essays on their journeys, focused upon ways they personally keep MLK’s Dream alive. Kimani Henry of Poughkeepsie High School, Mia Thomas of Arlington High School, and Kiara Winphrie of Franklin D. Roosevelt High School were dubbed 2026 MLK Youth Honorees. Each spoke in front of the large crowd, expressing gratitude and an assurance to proudly represent the award’s profound symbolic meaning.
“This award is about so much more; it’s about all the people who poured into and believed in me,” said Henry. “I promise to make the most of this opportunity.”
“I will continue to be the change I want to see in this world,” said Thomas who intends to pursue a career in nursing with the “healing is not just physical” mindset at the forefront.
“Thank you for believing in me and investing in my future.”
“My family has taught me through support, sacrifice and love to live by the words of MLK: Show up, care, take initiative, and stand up for what’s right,” affirmed Winphrie. “I have truly learned that living fully, means loving deeply.”
The event, which carries a long tradition of selecting an inspiring individual, who epitomizes the legacy of Dr. King, for its guest speaker, once again included someone fitting that lofty status. Bernard Tarver, a 1978 Poughkeepsie High School graduate, as well as accomplished voiceover, actor, storyteller, producer and playwright among other roles in entertainment, was visibly humbled by the esteemed opportunity to speak. Pointing to the strong foundation of good will his parents provided him, his words were rippled with modesty and gratitude.
“I am neither famous nor rich, and I’m ok with that; when you find something you’re passionate about, it gives your life a purpose, something Dr. King spoke a lot about,” said Tarver who relayed his serendipitous journey through the entertainment industry, led by his blessed opportunity to stay open to new ideas and experiences. He then reflected upon the enduring impact of MLK, citing one of his favorite quotes and concluding, “I have learned on this life path to treat everyone the same regardless of their position in life, be a lifelong learner, that there is no security in job security, don’t be afraid of change, no one cares how much money you had when you pass away, and we are here to make each other’s lives better; if you do that, you will never be forgotten.”
