Rita Ann Kennedy will serve as Parade Marshal in the OctoberFest Parade to be held Saturday at the Upper West Fork Park at Chloe.
The parade is part of the annual OctoberFest celebration-fundraiser, sponsored by the Upper West Fork Park.
Ms. Kennedy, who said, "I am honored to be chosen as Parade Marshal," was born in Paterson, New Jersey. She and her husband Bob moved to West Virginia in 2001. They have 3 living daughters, their youngest daughter Erin died in 2006.
The Kennedy's have 10 grandchildren and are expecting their first great grandchild January 30, 2010.
"We love living in West Virginia because the people are so warm and
caring for all their neighbors and friends," said Kennedy. "This state welcomed us with open arms."
Kennedy's husband Bob is a veteran of the US Marines, serving 2 tours of duty in Viet Nam and 15 years in the New Jersey National Guard, where he made the rank of Sergeant.
Kennedy says she has become involved in many volunteer activities since moving to West Virginia, including, 6 years as the Director of the Upper West Fork Park, helping at the Minnora Mission and the Walnut Church Food Pantry. She also books bands for the Saturday night sings and festivals at the park.
Kennedy had a bout with cancer in 2008-09, but says she is currently cancer-free. "I know I will always be blessed to live in this community and will continue to do volunteer work as long as I can," she said. | 
