SCRANTON, Pa. — Before Scranton St. Patrick's Parade stepped off Saturday morning, runners took off for a two-mile race around the city.
The Brian P. Kelly Memorial Footrace included runners from all over our area.
It honors the former parade association president who lost a battle with cancer in 2004.
This year, proceeds from the race will benefit Scranton Detective Kyle Gilmartin, who was shot in the line of duty back in January.
"God love him. The police are great in our area, and they have to put up with a lot, but they are great," said Bob Kern, race director.
Bishop of Scranton, Joseph Bambera, also led a special mass prior to the parade at St. Peter's Cathedral on Wyoming Avenue.
Several priests and other officials from the Diocese of Scranton attended the mass in Lackawanna County.