A health forum with free medical testing, advice and education is the first of many events the King Center will feature during the annual Martin Luther King Jr. birthday observance.
The forum, sponsored by Aetna, will take place at and around the King Center Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
It includes sessions and information on issues such as nutrition, recreation, diabetes, sickle-cell anemia, obesity and HIV/AIDS and will include doctors and researchers.
Those attending can get free medical tests for cholesterol levels, blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, breast and skin cancer and lung capacity. Dental, hearing and vision screenings also will be available.
Other events in celebration of the King holiday include:
> Tuesday, a forum on "The Role of Youth in Promoting Peace" at the King Center, 449 Auburn Ave.; 6 to 7:30 p.m.
> Wednesday, a prescreening of a documentary "A.D. King: Brother to the Dreamer," about Martin Luther King Jr.'s younger brother who followed him in ministry and civil rights action until his untimely death by drowning in Atlanta. The King Center, 5:30 to 9 p.m. Limited seating. Contact babsonabanjo@yahoo.com.
> Thursday, at 11 a.m., Georgia will have its King holiday commission program in the north wing of the state Capitol. Guests include Gov. Sonny Perdue, Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, former Maryland Lt. Gov. Michael Steele and others. Open to the public.
> Also Thursday, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra's King Celebration Concert, 8 p.m., at the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel at Morehouse College. General admission $25.
> Jan. 15-19, the Martin Luther King Jr. Service Summit sponsored by Hands On Atlanta. Exploring ways citizens can make a difference in the world. Information at www.handsonatlanta.org, or call 404-979-2800.
> Jan. 17, Salute to Greatness Awards Dinner featuring recipients Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton and Chick-fil-A founder Truett Cathy. Reception, 5:30 p.m. Dinner, 6:30 p.m. Hyatt Regency, 265 Peachtree St. N.E. Tickets $200.
> Jan. 18, a book signing with Christine King Farris and Bernice A. King, 3 to 5 p.m. at the King Center. Open to the public.
> Jan. 19, the Martin Luther King Jr. Annual Commemorative Service at Ebenezer Baptist Church's Horizon Sanctuary, featuring the Rev. Rick Warren, 10 a.m. Open to the public.
Copyright 2009 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution