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STEUBENVILLE -- Steubenville native, longtime businesswoman and community supporter Rikki Kamarados will be grand marshal for the 2023 Sights and Sounds of Christmas parade Dec. 2.
Kamarados, a graduate of Steubenville High School, earned her MBA from Franciscan University of Steubenville. She's been an active member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church and serves with several organizations and boards in the city, including the Steubenville Lions Club and the Chian Society of Steubenville/Weirton.
She and her brother, John, run the family business, Downtown Bakery, an institution on South Fourth Street which recently celebrated 65 years in business.
"Through her involvement in many charitable organizations in addition to her success in the bakery, she has worked to help others in the community," said Mayor Jerry Barilla. "I am pleased to see her honored this way."
And since Christmas is a favorite time of year for Kamarados, being in the parade is "the icing on the cake."
"I love the month of December in the bakery," she explained. "There are a lot of people who just come at the holiday season to bring back their favorite memories of family and food. We are a big part of making those memories when it comes to the desserts and breads, especially cookies. We plan for a very busy Thanksgiving and Christmas season."
The annual parade will begin at noon and travel along Fourth Street through the historic downtown. The horse-drawn grand marshal carriage is being sponsored by Trinity Health System. More than 50 units have committed to participate. Applications for the parade can still be submitted, but must be turned in no later than Nov. 16.
"It takes time to plan the lineup," parade organizer Mary Snyder said, pointing out anyone who hasn't received an application can get one by stopping in the Visitor Center at 120 S. Third Street in Steubenville or by calling (740) 283-4935.
"We especially need to know the size of your entry so we can properly place it in the lineup," Snyder said. "Once it is all organized, entrants will receive further details and come to a meeting to ensure it all goes smoothly."
All entries should reflect the theme of Christmas on their vehicles and floats. Several bands and dance groups will present seasonal music. The grand finale will be the special Tanker Sleigh with Santa Claus to greet parade-goers.