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11/29/2012 - West Side Leader
     

By Kathleen Folkerth

Photos: Ken Crisafi

DOWNTOWN AKRON — More than 70 units, from bands to costumed characters and floats, brought a festive atmosphere to South Main Street Nov. 24 for the city’s 26th annual Welcome Santa Parade. Ken Babby, new owner of the Akron Aeros, was honored as Grand Marshal in the parade that marked the start of the holiday season in Akron.

Among the units that brought cheers from the crowd was the “Nutcracker” float by Ballet Theatre of Ohio, which is pictured at right top. The float won second place in that category.

The St. Sebastian-St. Augustine Marching Band, which is shown right middle, earned first place in the Novelty Unit category.

Hale Farm and Village also took part in the this year’s parade and was named the first-place winner in the Costumed Character category for its entry, which is pictured at right bottom.

Karen Lynch and Karen Hogan from the All-American Parade Judges Association served as judges for the parade, according to city officials. Other local winners this year were the Al Kaf Youth Group, Spotlight School of the Arts and “Ask Gilby.” — By Kathleen Folkerth