Christmas Spirit on parade

The Oakton United Methodist Church's float featuring a living Nativity won the Spirit of Christmas Award. --Ralph Pokorny/Daily Mail

The Nevada/Vernon County Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of the 2009 Christmas Parade, "Home for the Holidays."

The crowds gathered, the Nevada Regional Medical Center's Tree of Shining Memories was lighted and the parade began! Everyone had fun and the excitement was contagious, organizers said. The spirit of Nevada was shining bright and so was the sun.

The winners are:

Dr. Ronald Schowengerdt's antique fire truck took first place in the adult category.

Youth

First place, Nevada High School Tiger Pride Marching Band; second place, St. Mary's School.

Adult

First place, Dr. Ronald Schowengerdt with a vintage fire truck; second place, Shane and Sandra McLeod on horses Rudolf and Grumpy Hat the Elf.

Business

First place. 3M; second place, Sonic.

The Spirit of Christmas Award was presented to the Oakton United Methodist Church.

A representative from winning organizations may pick up their trophy or plaque at the Chamber of Commerce office, located in the lower level of the historic Carnegie Building, 225 West Austin, after Dec. 14.