Don Higgins and Lauren Ivester accept this year’s top prize on behalf of Higgins Properties and Construction. (Not pictured: Dee Higgins)
Christmas may be over but the celebrating continues for winners of this year’s “Bedeck Your Business” storefront decorating contest in Cornelia. Over 20 local businesses participated in the contest this year.
The winners were announced Dec. 21. The winner received a gift basket and a trophy to display in the business for the upcoming year.
“Driving through downtown the last couple of weeks has really been a treat because of the hard work of our business owners.”
The contest is in its third year. Debbie Turner, Administrative Assistant for City Hall says, “The 2017 winners were chosen based on effort, appearance, and uniqueness by a panel of four judges who drove around and looked at the décor, and then discussed with the panel.”
2017 “Bedeck Your Business” winners
First place: Higgins Properties and Construction- They decorated every storefront on Clarkesville Street with lighted garland and a Christmas tree in every window. They also wrapped their power poles with lighted garland.
Second place: Bryson’s Auto Parts- This was their first year entering the contest, but they had a huge inflatable snowman and great Christmas lights around the building. One could tell they really put in the effort!
Third place: Billy Cain Ford- This business decorated all its storefront windows. The windows are the entire sales floor from bottom to top, so the window paintings really stood out. They are very whimsical and playful and a nice sight to see when entering the downtown area.
Honorable Mention: Chip’s Service Station- Chip did a great job decorating his business! He has lights and trees and wreaths and little snowmen. It’s great to see the effort put into making the place look festive!
Community Development Manager Jessie Owensby says, “The winner’s decorations were so pretty, the City copied them throughout downtown! Driving through downtown the last couple of weeks has really been a treat because of the hard work of our business owners.” She adds, “The competition is great, and I’m sure some of the businesses are going to step it up even more for next year.”
Last year’s winner was Vann Oil and Tire.
