Since the Pittsburgh Steelers began their memorable run toward a playoff berth, followed by three weeks of great play leading up to this weekend's Super Bowl, the people of Butler County have contributed significantly toward the excitement and support that the team has attained here in Western Pennsylvania.

Especially during the past two weeks, there hardly has been a time when a Steelers jersey, sweatshirt, hat, coat, Terrible Towel or vehicle flag could not be seen in this county. And, it's a safe bet that traffic will be light on most area highways Sunday evening when the Steelers are squaring off against the Seattle Seahawks, with most people settled in in front of their TV sets.

There was better-than-usual weather during January, but the Steelers also played a big part in eradicating blahs of wintertime. And, people here responded in the way that the team's success warranted.

Even some people who are not usually football fans got caught up in the excitement and will choose not to miss the game.

Whether the Steelers win or lose the big game — and odds leading up to game time were in the Steelers' favor — Butler County people deserve the Steelers' gratitude for their uninterrupted show of loyalty and support.

Meanwhile, local people can feel grateful about the fun and fellowship that have evolved from the Steelers and their success.

Hopefully, when the lights are turned off at Ford Field in Detroit Sunday night, the Vince Lombardi trophy will be in the Steelers' possession and the phrase "One for the Thumb" will finally be put to rest in favor of the rallying cry "Go for Six."