Franklin McCallie
In commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Alton Park Development Corporation is hosting the Inaugural John P. Franklin Sr. Humanitarian Award Banquet and Roast to honor Mr. Franklin.
Mr. Franklin is noted for his contributions to Hamilton County, the city of Chattanooga and the state of Tennessee. Mr. Franklin is a humanitarian and his contributions during the Civil Rights Movement and his trailblazing qualities lead him to become the first and only African American vice mayor in the city of Chattanooga, the first African American city commissioner, and the first African American president of the Tennessee Board of Education.
Mr. Franklin McCallie will be the first recipient of the John P. Franklin Sr. Humanitarian Award. Mr. McCallie was born and raised in Chattanooga. He comes from a long line of educators, and his ancestors started the McCallie School in 1905. Mr. McCallie is a celebrated educator, and legendary for his love for children and goodwill. He will be honored for his efforts to build race relations, harmony and equality for all mankind throughout Chattanooga and abroad.
National Radio Hall of Fame icon and local radio legend Luther Masingill of WDEF Channel 12 will be roasted during the occasion. Mr. Masingill also was recently named to the Tennessee Journalism Hall of Fame at Middle Tennessee State University. Mr. Masingill is featured in the book "My Life With Luther: A Glimpse of a Legendary American Broadcaster" by James Howard (Author), Holly Abernathy (Author). A book signing with Mr. Masingill will he held that evening at 8:15 p.m.
Dr. Horace Traylor will also be a special guest at the occasion, who has roots in the Chattanooga community. In addition to serving as president of Zion College and Chattanooga City College, Dr. Traylor served as minister of the First Congretional Church for 10 years between 1958-1968. He was a founding member of the United Bank of Chattanooga in 1971. Dr. Traylor served as special assistant to the chancellor, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga between 1969-1972. Appointed by three mayors of Chattanooga, his civic activities were many. Dr. Traylor's career has been one of promoting unity and progress.
Also, in collaboration with area nursing homes and secondary schools, the Alton Park Development Corporation will provide complimentary tickets for several senior citizens and students ages 13-18 to attend the event as honorary guests. Children will leave the event around 9 p.m.