The Milan News-Leader
A Heritage Newspaper
Weekly Publication
Holiday light competition brightens season
Four homeowners honored
By Sue G. Collins, Staff Writer
PUBLISHED: January 1, 2009
Photo by Sue G. Collins
Steve Burgess, pictured, and his wife, Laurie, were winners in the Children's Holiday Wonderland category in the fifth annual Lights Aglow and Mistletoe outdoor dÈcor contest in Milan. Burgess adds a little something each year after hitting post-holiday sales. The Milan Beautification Commission sponsors the program.
Four homeowners in Milan were recognized last week for their outstanding holiday spirit. The Milan Beautification Commission chose the homes, from more than 20 nominations, as the winners in the fifth annual Lights Aglow and Mistletoe competition.
John and Betty Leacher, at 602 Jefferson Lane, won for the Most Traditional display. Their two-story home is trimmed with white lights and green garland, accented with big, red bows.
John Leacher handles the outdoor decorating each year.
"He has it down to a science," said his wife.
Two antique sleds on the front porch are decked with more greens and ribbon. The yard lights up once the sun goes down, with a sleigh, reindeer and sign wishing neighbors "Merry Christmas."
Steve and Laurie Burgess once again filled their yard at 360 Wabash St. with colorful familiar Christmas characters. They were the winners in the Children's Holiday Wonderland category.
Steve said he adds a few things every year, hitting the after-Christmas sales for the best bargains on giant elves, candy canes and ornaments. Two tall nutcrackers stand sentry at the front gate of the Burgess home and the yard is covered with bright festive figures.
Philip and Laura Clark were honored for having the Most Uniquely decorated home. Their charming yellow house at 804 Church St. was awash with lights and the front window was bordered with candy canes. Two whimsical reindeer lit the front yard.
Jim and Amy Swalwell won Best of Show. Their home at 263 Second St. was aglow, from rooftop to fencepost. Santa sat perched on the chimney with lighted gifts tumbling across the roof. Green roping and red bows lined the fences and porch railing.
The week before Christmas, Milan Beautification Commission members Sallie Bancroft, Art Witbart, Marie Tellas, Barbara Gardinier and Ben Swayze were joined by Dundee Chamber of Commerce representatives Chuck Drexler, and Tim and Carleen Stiff to tour the nominated homes. Joe Goetz drove the judges in the Milan Senior Bus.
All the nominees received green wooden trees in their yards to designate them as contenders for the Lights Aglow and Mistletoe competition.
Staff Writer Sue G. Collins can be reached at 429-7380 or scollins@heritage.com.
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