Hundreds of people lined Main Street this morning to get a glimpse of their favorite floats and the yearly guest of honor, Santa Claus, at the Spirit of Christmas parade. Spectators bundled up for the chilly day, wearing hats, mittens and winter jackets for the 45th annual parade, sponsored by the Butler Eagle and CenturyLink. "Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to the City of Butler Spirit of Christmas parade," said Ron Vodenichar, master of ceremonies for the parade, from a platform across from the Butler County Courthouse. He is the general manager of the Butler Eagle. The parade, which began at 10 a.m., had a number of floats, marching units and pageant winners. The best overall float award went to the Oneida Valley Fire Department. The most original winner was Cub Scout Pack 31 in West Sunbury Brownie Troop 20675, Moniteau School, was named best appearance, and Northwood Realty got first place in commercial floats. Sue Oleath of Butler attended the parade for the first time this year. "We thought it'd be a great idea because we had our granddaughter with us so we thought we'd come and see some of it," Oleath said. "It just brings a lot of people out, and it's a fun thing to do with the children, especially when the weather is nice like this."
