MOSES LAKE — Rev. R.E. Tobin, Sr., pastor of the New Light Missionary Baptist Church, is hoping for a large turn out at tonight’s celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The event begins at 6 p.m. at the Galilee Missionary Baptist Church, 1905 W. Basin St., Moses Lake with Rev. Dennis Odom leading the program.

Typically, the event plays host to about 150 people and Tobin said he was expecting at least that number of people this evening.

“It is a program of song, prayer, recognizing and giving honor to this great man of God, Dr. Martin Luther King,” Tobin said.

The event, which has been held for at least 10 years, will include a tribute to King by Pastor Ron Williamson of the New Bride Baptist Church.

Tobin said he has appreciated planning support from Sister Marva M. Brown as well as the support of the community.

“I’ve noticed, over the past 10 years, the people have been very supportive of this annual celebration. We have support from the white community, the black community, the Hispanic community,” Tobin said. He added that Brown had been invaluable in helping put the event together.

Tobin also thanked the city and county officials who have shown their support by attending previous events.

Tobin called the event a time to remember what King stood for, “Equal rights for one and all.”

“I think that was basically his message. It may or may not be that way today, depending on your opinion, but (King) played a big role in where we are today,” Tobin said.