On Monday, members of the government and private citizens will join together to remember the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr.

Governor Jay Nixon and first lady Georganne will celebrate Martin Luther King Day with a visit to the Samaritan Center in Jefferson City.

At noon, the Nixons will present a check to the center's Executive Director Marylyn Defeo. The money comes from donations given at the governor's prayer breakfast last week The freewill offering taken after that breakfast raised more than $1,800 for the center.

The governor and first lady also will use the occasion to encourage mid-Missourians to donate to the Samaritan Center and other charities that provide services for families in need.

U.S. Representative Blaine Luetkemeyer is also honoring Reverend King Monday, He issued the following statement:

"Today our nation remembers the remarkable life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and recognizes his remarkable achievements. Dr. King had a dream and that dream was evident in his tireless and heroic efforts on behalf of all Americans who sought to participate equally in our great democracy. So today we honor both the man and his dream."

In Columbia, the public is invited to attend a celebration of King's life and legacy Monday morning at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial off of Stadium Boulevard. The event will feature guest speaker Reverend Gill Ford.

Following Reverend Ford's speech, a free lunch will be served at the 2nd Baptist Church on East Broadway.

A concert will take place from at Fifth Street Christian Church. Hip-hop musician Brian Partridge, also known as SaltieMt5:13, will be featured at the free concert. A group of speakers will follow the concert. Former gang members, drug addicts, and ex-prisoners will share their experiences. Door prizes will be given out and food will be provided by Bambino's Italian Cafe.

At 6:30 P.M., the Reverend King will be remembered with a candlelight walk that begins at Douglass High School on North Providence. Following the walk will be a memorial service at St. Luke United Methodist Church on East Ash.