Thousands of people are expected to participate in local events Thursday observing the 59th National Day of Prayer, a day that has recently come under fire. Nearly 3,000 people are expected to gather at 6 p.m. on the north steps of the state Capitol for a multicultural observance that will include a Hispanic choir and Native American dancers. "In years past, it's been all English speaking," said Ted Rose, state coordinator for the National Day of Prayer.