Dow Chemical Co. honored two of its own Monday for their part in continuing to keep the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr. alive through their devotion to the community, inspiring others to contribute time and money for charitable and environmental efforts.

Honored were Antioch residents Krist Jensen and Kim Brooks. Jensen was singled out for his volunteer work at Dow's 300-acre wetland preserve in Antioch.

Dow representative Sheryl Sturges introduced Jensen saying that he became involved in youth and environmental programs through Junior Achievement in Antioch, eventually becoming a member of its board of directors. He also has volunteered time with Habitat for Humanity, building homes in Mexico and Pittsburg during his vacation time.

But the wetlands were Jensen's passion, Sturges said. His passion was so strong that it caused others to volunteer to work on his team.

Photo couresy of The Dow Chemical Company

Antioch resident Krist Jensen receives a Recognition Award from Dow's Patty Deutsche.

"We don't lose people, we only gain. Retirees come and knock on his door and get involved. He's out there every Friday doing some sort of restoration work," she said, adding that recently he was out there in 30-degree weather working on the wetland area.

"Without Krist we wouldn't have the reputation as (an environmental) leader that we have today. We are being recognized worldwide for this little strip here in Antioch."

Jensen cited a quote from King as his inspiration: "'What will happen if I don't help? There's no greater thing than to do something for others.' That's ditto for me."

Brooks was introduced as a young woman who works with the homeless, teaches Bible lessons and who has a heart for peoplDow Chemical Co. honored two of its own Monday for their part in continuing to keep the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr. alive through their devotion to the community,e. She also led Dow's 2006 United Way campaign, raising $46,000, a 21-percent increase over the 2005 campaign.

Brooks said King's speeches impressed her so much that she was moved to tears listening to them. "He didn't just dream how the world could be better; he acted on it," she said. "I thank Martin Luther King for not being silent."

Antioch Police Chief Jim Hyde, who closed the ceremonies, touched on King's legacy as "my brother's keeper. One must be prepared to immerse one's self in the agonies of our time. So did Dr. King, not because he was seeking greatness, but justice.

"Are we our brother's keeper? Do we have a responsibility to look out for others? Yes, we do."