Ric Hughes, a long-time Ravenna educator known for the "All City Musical" he organizes annually, has been named grand marshal of the Ravenna Balloon A-Fair parade.
Balloon A-Fair committee members surprised Hughes with the news during a recent rehearsal of this year's musical, "The Little Mermaid."
"It was a total shock," he said. "I'm very honored that they would think of me for something like this. I'm usually the kind of person who likes to stay in the background and let the kids take the glory."
Hughes retired in 2004 from the Ravenna School District, where he had taught for nearly 30 years.
He ended his career as a teacher of both English and drama at Brown Middle School.
After retirement, he founded the All City Musical, which is in its 9th year.
He and his wife, Sandy, have lived in Ravenna since 1993. They have three adult sons and seven grandchildren.
Mark Short, co-chairman of the Balloon A-Fair's parade committee, said four different people nominated Hughes for the honor.
"He's known for all the years he taught in Ravenna, and all the musicals he's done over the years," Short said.
Hughes will be officially recognized at the Balloon A-Fair's Grand Marshal Dinner at 6:30 p.m. on April 17 at the Ravenna Elks Club. Admission is $15. Reservations for the event must be made in advance by calling 330-297-7320.
Contact this reporter at 330-298-1139 or
dsmith@recordpub.com
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