Legendary funk group, Kool & the Gang will be making an appearance in Youngstown on Saturday as the first people to receive a star on the Youngstown Walk of Fame.

According to Downtown Youngstown Events Coordinator Melaine Clarke-Penella, Kool & the Gang themselves will make an appearance at the ceremony just hours before they take the stage at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre.

Kool & the Gang will be the first of many to receive stars on the walk of fame with Clarke-Penella telling 21 News that a webpage will soon be released on the city's website with nomination forms and FAQs.

The city also plans on forming a nomination committee for future honorees. 

Clarke-Penella explained how the idea for Youngstown's Walk of Fame came to be.

"We have so much to celebrate as far as talent that has came from this area. I think we should show off a little bit and honor these folks that helped put our city's name on the map," Clarke Penella said.

Clarke-Penella adds that once construction downtown is completed, the downtown area will be "so visited" so she wanted to contribute local attractions and "think outside the box."

The ceremony will be held with Kool & the Gang Saturday, July 1 at 1:00 p.m. on the sidewalk near Market Street Bridge and Wean Park. Look for the City of YOU tent and stage. The event is free and open to the public.

Kool & the Gang will take the stage at the Amphitheatre at 7:30 p.m.