More than 400 people are expected to gather this Monday to honor the life of respected civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Russellville resident Rev. Charles Dale said the Northwest Alabama Chapter of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Committee will host its annual celebration in Russellville this year.

The event rotates between Franklin, Colbert and Lauderdale counties and is held in Franklin County every third year.

Dale said those who plan to participate in Monday’s activities will gather at the Chucky Mullins Center in Russellville at 9:30 a.m. in preparation for the march in remembrance of King.

Dale said the group would leave the Chucky Mullins Center at 10:30 a.m. and march to the Franklin County Courthouse on Jackson Avenue where the group will be lead in prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance.

Dale said the group would make a loop and march back to the Chucky Mullins Center where the program will be held.

“This year’s keynote speaker will be Fay Rose Toare Sanders, the wife of Sen. Hank Sanders,” Dale said.

“She is a dynamic speaker and we are honored to have her join us for this special occasion.”

Following the program, Dale said a luncheon would be served.

According to Dale, this year’s theme is “A Day of Service – Act a Day On, Not a Day Off.”

“On this day, we encourage people to do something that will benefit the welfare and betterment of humanity in Dr. King’s memory,” Dale said.

“He was an inspiration, and his life has great historical significance and meaning.

“I hope many of our local residents will come out for this event because this is a historical moment as well. We are keeping the dream alive to educate our young people to know why we celebrate Dr, King and the purpose of the event.

“The year 2013 was the 50^th anniversary of the ‘I Have a Dream’ speech, so that makes this even more special as well.”