John Goodie is concerned about the MLK Parade of which he is the Chair, and I don’t blame him….. The parade is one of those items that will not be funded this year by the city; the cost is just under $10,000. Some of those costs: $4500 barricade services, $550 parade signs, $200-$300 insurance, $100 portable restrooms, $100 parade permit, $150 orange cones for traffic control, $100 for parade numbers, $100 radios, and 10 police officers at $35 an hour for three hours. Other needs are $2200 stage and sound, and $400 for the band shell.All I can say is Good for Goodie!! He’s not giving up on the possibility that the Mesa community wants to see this happen and will ensure we move forward.The MLK parade gives high school and junior high school bands the opportunity to participate. It is also is a great way to start the year off - with a reminder and celebration of civil rights for all of us. A holiday that everyone of us can be thankful we have, the beginning of a new year in unity!John Goodie wrote the article in hopes it would gather interest, to see if the public would contribute and/or if there are those that would be willing to sponsor the MLK Parade; either in total or by any amount toward the $10,000. Sponsorship is always part of those mentioned that makes it all possible. Who knows, one big donor could have the parade named after them. I know I’m willing to contribute in a small way that might buy the permit! More will come on how to submit donations.Call John to get in on the action, let him know he can count on you: 480-329-3116 or contact him by email at jrgoodie@peoplepc.com. Planning has to be done early so that everything comes together efficiently and in time for the MLK activities in January 2007.John is a City of Mesa Park Ranger, one of four that were retained to provide a much needed service. About eleven positions were cut due to budget constraints. I’m so glad we still have John on board to serve our city and is participating on the MLK Committee.
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