–By Rachel Galvin–

On Sunday, Oct. 9 The Pink Heals Tour made a stop in Deerfield Beach. Not only was there a parade of pink firetrucks, but also activities on the beach, including a Mammovan where women could have a mammogram for only $99, vendor booths, kids activities and more. Commissioners Preston, Miller and Ganz spoke as well as emcee radio DJ Paul Castronovo (and his wife Gina, who beat breast cancer) and Sheriff Al Lamberti, among others. This is the 2nd year for Pink Heals, created by retired firefighter Dave Graybill, which helps show love for women and awareness for breast cancer. Broward Sheriff’s Office also held a PAL boxing event at the fire station, on Hillsboro and Federal, benefiting 16-year-old Cody Meiers, a young athlete who was diagnosed with a rare bone cancer. Look for video coming soon on ObserverTV and see the Oct. 13 issue for more details.

Pink fire engines and pink patrol cars will be the center of attention as they parade through Deerfield Beach this Sunday for the Broward Sheriff’s Office Pink Heals Tour 2011, raising awareness and funds for cancer charities.

The Pink Heals Tour was first brought to Broward County in 2010 by firefighters from then-Deerfield Beach Fire Rescue (now, proudly part of the Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue family). In continuing this tradition, BSFR, the International Association of Firefighters Local 4321 and the city of Deerfield Beach have planned a day-long, family fun event that, in addition to the parade, includes free entertainment, health screenings, food for purchase by local vendors and a survivor celebration.

Riding in the parade will be Sheriff Al Lamberti, along with BIG 105.9’s Paul Castronovo and his wife Gina, a cancer survivor, and Deerfield Beach elected officials. The parade will depart Quiet Waters Park at 11:30 a.m. and proceed north on Powerline Road, east on Hillsboro Boulevard and travel along the beach to the main beach parking lot located in front of BSFR Station 75 at South Ocean Way and Southeast First Street. Opening ceremonies are scheduled for 12:30 p.m. followed by a fire truck pull, Police Athletic League boxing match from 1 – 3 p.m. (tickets for the match are $15 to benefit the Children’s Cancer Caring Center) and a free concert from entertainer Amber Leigh at 2 p.m. Luminaries on the beach honoring cancer survivors and victims at 7 p.m. will close the event.

There will also be fire rescue and law enforcement equipment displays and demonstrations, a car show, kids play area with bounce house and other family-oriented events.  For more information on the Pink Heals Tour 2011, visit www.pinkhealsdb.com or www.pinkfiretrucks.org.