Houlton Chamber reveals holiday decoration, gingerbread winners

  HOULTON, Maine — The holidays are often a time when households show off their creativity by decorating their homes with a variety of colorful lights and this year was no different.
   More than 20 entries participated in the Houlton Chamber of Commerce’s “Home Decorating Contest,” while an additional 16 businesses competed in the “Business Decorating Contest,” according to Lori Weston, chamber director. To be considered by judges, individuals and businesses had to register with the chamber.
“The Chamber began the contests three years ago in an attempt to get the spirit of the Holidays going on all fronts,” Weston said. “It makes a difference.  The contests have grown from three years ago and from the interest this year, next season looks to be bigger still.”
Cash prizes were given for the first place winners.
In the Traditional Category, first place went to Jacob and Heidi McNinch, 213 Walker Road.
In the Clark Griswold Category, first place went to Murray Williams, 105 Foxcroft Road.
In the Religious Category, first place went to Deanne Rogan, 18 Fair St.
In the “Charlie Browniest” Category, first place went to Louise Worthly, 26 Commonwealth St.
In the Business Decorating Category, the winners were; 1, Main Street Fitness; 2, Paradis Shop N’ Save; and 3, Dead River (Bangor Street).
Additionally, a Gingerbread House Contest, sponsored by the Courtyard Café, was held with nine talented young builders participating.
Winners in the children ages 5-11 category were: 1, Riley Fitzpatrick; 2, Cole Winslow; 3, Austin Winslow; and honorable mentions to Olivia Winslow and Olivia Gervais. In the age 12-17 category, the winners were: 1, Mariam Rogan; and 2, Hannah Gervais. The 4-H Haybalers won first place in the group category, while Mary Harbison won first place in the adult category.