With parades, community service, discussions and arts programs, Americans of all ages next Monday will observe the federal holiday marking the birthday of Nobel Peace Prize winner Martin Luther King, Jr. The inspiring civil rights leader of the 1960s was assassinated in 1968 at age 39. Since 1986, his Jan. 15 birthday has been commemorated on the third Monday of January as a federal holiday.

Events around the country include gospel choir performances, rallies, marches, educational forums and Day of Service volunteer opportunities. Projects for nonprofit groups, churches, schools and environmental causes reflect King’s embrace of .public service. His many memorable quotations include this: "Life’s most urgent and persistent question is: What are you doing for others?"

The national holiday, falling on Jan. 20 this year was authorized by Congress and signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983. Observances began three years later, though some states resisted at first. Martin Luther King Day was officially observed in all 50 states for the first time in 2000.

Student says: "I live out Dr. King's dream when I treat everyone with respect. I believe . . . everyone should be treated equally." -- Emmon'e Green, 13, of Philadelphia, who won a Day of Service essay contest

Parade organizer says: "More than ever, we need to understand the values of Dr. King and all come together as one and take care of each other." – Julia Pearce of Tybee Island, Ga.

Columnist says: "King knew he was right and he knew that the justice of the cause would prove that, whether he was there to see it or not." -- The Times of Northwest Indiana