Wintersville celebrates the season with parade

WINTERSVILLE - The weather outside was anything but frightful as the village held its annual Christmas parade Sunday.

Unseasonably warm temperatures and sunny skies greeted parade-goers who lined Main Street from Riesbeck's to the Municipal Building.

Sponsored by the village betterment committee, the parade featured 60 units, including two bands, 10 floats and a variety of local dance groups.

Paul E. Hauser, a World War II veteran and longtime local business owner, served as grand marshal for the event. Hauser celebrated his 90th birthday last week, officials noted.

"Everything went smoothly and with the warmer weather we have a very nice turnout," said Nancy Schloss, co-chairman of the betterment committee. "We had a larger crowd this year than I expected."

Schloss noted many individuals and businesses assisted with the event, including Howard Bowers, Dee Martin, Ray and Kitty Ferguson who provided refreshment. Riesbeck's and the village police and street departments also assisted.

Schloss the betterment committee has been sponsoring the parade for the past six years.

Trophies were to be presented to entries in the float category for mayor's choice, most creative and most original idea.

Councilman Jason Mattern said the event could not have been on a better day.

"Everything turned out great," he said. "I'm real happy with the presentation as well as the turnout."

A light-up ceremony, refreshments and a visit with Santa followed at the Municipal Building.

(Looman can be contacted at jlooman@heraldstaronline.com.)