West Medford Community Center begins its 2020 “Words and Music” series with a program about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Should we still be celebrating King’s life and legacy? Why is his mission and his message more important than ever? Can we truly keep alive his dream of a world free of racial prejudice and social injustice? These questions and others will be discussed in the “Words” portion of the program, moderated by Terry Carter and featuring members of the committee planning the city’s annual MLK observance to be held on January 20.

The “Music” portion of the program will feature Medford drummer Bill Casey along with his new band of local musicians: Tim Blackman on piano, Tim McLaughlin on saxophone, Bill Kuklinski on guitar, and Mark Pfaff on bass. Vocalist Janet Casey, Bill’s sister, also will sing.

The West Medford Community Center launched Words and Music in 2017. Usually presented on the first Friday of every month (except holiday weeks), the event starts off with a discussion on a valuable aspect of the community, followed by a performance by a local musician or musicians. For more information on this and other events, visit the WMCC website or call the center at 781-483-3042.