Every year, members of the Arlington Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Committee have some big decisions to make.

From hundreds of submissions, members must decide which art and essays best exemplify the life and legacy of Dr. King. This year's theme is "Our Greatness, My Service." The competitions are open to students who reside within the city limits of Arlington.

Last month, committee members devoted a significant amount of time to selecting this year's theme. The four-day Advancing the Dream Celebration in 2015 will embrace service. The theme is based on the famous words of Dr. King, "Everybody can be great ... because anybody can serve."

This year's Art and Essay Competitions are underway. Nearly $5,000 in scholarships will be awarded in January during the Arlington MLK celebration weekend, which starts January 16 and includes an awards banquet, spoken word and step show competitions, multicultural festival, day of service and more.

Submissions are due by 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 5.

Click on attachment for contest rules.