Lighting up for Christmas

Taking a drive around Corning at this time of the year is sure to light up the holiday spirit.

On nearly every street, there is a house all decked out for Christmas and some of those homes are entries in this year's Lighted House Contest.

Valanne Cardenas, Chamber of Commerce manager, said there are nine homes on the contest list so far, and the chamber is hoping to add to the number before judging takes place Dec. 21.

On that same night the TRAX will be holding its 13th Annual Tour of Corning Christmas Lights.

The tour is free to the public and busses will transport passengers all around town to view the entries, plus more, and serve refreshments.

TRAX busses will depart from the Corning Transportation Center, 1081 Solano St., at 6:30 p.m. Make a reservation by calling 385-2877.

Be sure and check the Corning Observer Dec. 19 edition for a map of entries.

Winners of the Lighted House Contest will receive $200 first place, $75 second place and $50 for third, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce.

"We have some outstanding entries this year and I look forward to the tour," Cardenas said.

Some of the entries have been winners in the past, some are new and others have been entering the contest for many years.

But is isn't just those entered in the contest that are worth viewing. There are several homes, and even a few businesses, in the community not on the contest list that are spectacular, such as Roger Langley's 1008 Sixth St., home which features lights and a nativity scene.

Touring the streets of town to see the lights and decorations is a nice way to spend an evening with friends and family, especially children who will be full of oohs and aahs.