There is new energy in the 46thannual Interlochen Christmas Lights Awards: Seven first time winners including two rookies in their very first Christmas. It was difficult for the judges to decide among at least 20 worthy and eligible finalist nominees for only 11 prizes.
The Saxe Award –The Duperre Family. 1122 Crowley. Our newest award in Allan Saxe’s honor for Best Christmas Spirit goes to a couple that shows their spirit every year with original designs and do-it-yourself displays.
The Griswald Award –The Long Family. 1100 Crowley. Rarely does a new neighbor create an over-the-top “wow factor” like this one did with their many brilliantly multi-colored trees. Chevy Chase would approve.
The Findlay Award — The Caldwell Family. 1411 Porto Bello. Bernie has been going up on the roof now for more than 30 years to earn this well deserved prize for Lifetime Achievement, named after Interlochen’s founder.
The Porter Award — The Flannigan Family. 1421 Porto Bello. They doubled their lights in the front of their elegant house this year but this prize is for their Best Lakeside display, named after Interlochen’s first HOA president.
Best Theme I — The Quinton/Matthews Family. 1115 Crowley. South Beach comes all the way to Lake Interlochen with this Hot Pink Flamboyance (yes, that is a word) of Christmas Flamingos.
Best Theme II — The Slater Family. 1111 San Juan. These newbies haven’t even moved in yet but their mischievous elves fixing up their fixer upper made their neighbors and the judges smile.
Most Artistic I — The Slauter Family. 1101 Montreau. This home always looks great and has been nominated before but a huge, new “Merry Christmas” sign finally won over the judges.
Most Artistic II — The Barber Family. 1400 Crowley. Likewise, a handsome antique “White Christmas” truck turned this close runner up from last year into a runaway prize winner this Christmas.
The Santa Award — The Warren Family. 3207 San Paulo. Every year they add to and change up their display to stay one step ahead of the mostly peaceful and friendly competition.
Santa’s Choice –The Jacobson Family. 703 Findlay. This huge, curving yard at the south end of the traffic route used to be a big black hole until this couple accepted the challenge and beautifully decorated almost every square foot.
The People’s Choice –The Sargent Family. 618 Portofino. Their vintage cherry red truck won over the judges even before it was featured in theDallas Morning News early in December.