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Tallahassee celebrates the lore and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The parade featured bands from the city's high schools and universities, including the world famous Florida A&M University Marching 100.
Tom Flanigan
The parade featured bands from the city's high schools and universities, including the world famous Florida A&M University Marching 100.

Tallahassee marked Dr. Martin Luther King Day with a city-wide celebration. The festivities began with a big parade along Monroe Street.

That parade has steadily grown over the years. This year, it featured dozens of government and civic organizations, along with marching bands from the city's universities and high schools.

The grand marshal for the parade was one of the city's most beloved medical professionals. Dr. A.J. Brickler, who continued his father's legacy of bringing thousands of babies into the world, is now retired from the profession, although he continues his deep love of flying. He spoke about Dr. King's vision and example after leading the parade.

"He wanted equality among all individuals. He wanted to see everyone recognized for their characteristics and for their strengths. And I think we need to strive to make that a daily goal."

That began a festival along Adams Street. Inside City Hall, the annual Day of Dialogue discussion focused on how to further improve racial understanding and cooperation in the spirit of Dr. King.

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Tom Flanigan has been with WFSU News since 2006, focusing on covering local personalities, issues, and organizations. He began his broadcast career more than 30 years before that and covered news for several radio stations in Florida, Texas, and his home state of Maryland.

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