Dover church to host 40th annual MLK birthday tribute Jan. 19

First Baptist Church, 140 Regent St., Dover, will again host the Christopher Lowery Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Tribute in honor of the Martin Luther King holiday. The program marks its 40th anniversary this year.

The free event is open to the public and will begin at 7 p.m. Jan. 19.

Dr. Bradley Bielski, dean and chief administrative officer of Kent State Tuscarawas, will be the keynote speaker. Bielski is in his 22nd year as an administrator in higher education and is serving his 12th year in his position at Kent State Tuscarawas. He also serves in the same capacity at the Kent State East Liverpool campus. His prior administrative experience included 10 years as vice president for academic affairs at Thomas More University.

Bielski was named Tuscarawas County’s Citizen of the Year in 2021 by the Chamber of Commerce for his work in economic development. He also served as chair of the annual campaign for the United Way, which he led to an all-time fundraising record. His community service includes serving on the boards of the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation (chair), Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital (vice chair), Tuscarawas County Community Improvement Corporation, Tuscarawas Chamber of Commerce, Workforce Investment Board of Stark and Tuscarawas counties, and Leadership Tuscarawas (vice chair).

Rev. Rasheed As-Samad, pastor of First Baptist Church of Dover, said the church is excited to continue its long tradition of hosting the annual King Day celebration, which it has done each year since the first federal holiday in 1986.

“We are extremely honored to have a leader of Dr. Bradley Bielski’s caliber join us for what has really grown over the years to become Tuscarawas County’s premier event and celebration of the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Each year this event brings together civic and spiritual leaders from throughout the county to honor Dr. King and share his message of hope and inspiration,” As-Samad said.

Food, music and fellowship will be part of the program. Musical performances will be provided by Prime.