A parade and festival sponsored by P.R.I.D.E. and the International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters is scheduled on Saturday, Aug. 9.
A Day with P.R.I.D.E. Black Fire Fighters, 17th annual Back-to-School Parade and the Garvin Run and Memorial Balloon Release are among the events.
Grand marshal of the parade, which starts at 9 a.m. Aug. 9, will be John F. Drew Sr., first black U.S. deputy marshal from the state of Kansas, and former director of the Northeast Community Development Center.
The lineup for the Garvin Run is at 8:30 a.m. Aug. 9 at 1726 Quindaro Blvd.
The parade route is from Cissna and Quindaro Boulevard to 9th and Quindaro Boulevard (Parkwood Park behind Fire Station No. 5). School bands, drill team and dancers plan to participate in the parade.
Those who are interested in participating in the parade may call Paul Jones at 913-908-5622 or the P.R.I.D.E. office at 913-321-2733.
The event at Parkwood Park, 9th and Quindaro, will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The event includes special awards, games for children and a talent showcase. There will be school supply giveaway for children in kindergarten and older, while supplies last.
Hot dogs, chips and drinks will be available.
The Parkwood pool on Aug. 9 is open free to all swimmers who bring a canned good donation.
The event has several sponsors including the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kan.