Puerto Rico Parade Salutes Heros

NEW YORK (AP) -- The National Puerto Rican Parade has kicked off in New York City with participants honoring heroes who have been helping the island recover from the devastation of Hurricane Maria.

The celebration on Sunday on Fifth Avenue featured floats, musicians and brightly colored costumes. Some parade-goers draped Puerto Rican flags over their shoulders.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo was among the dignitaries on hand for the event.

Organizers say the parade will be honoring first responders and others who stepped up to help with both emergency efforts and ongoing recovery work.

(KA)