The Town of Haughton has found its house with the most Christmas cheer thanks to the 21st annual Haughton Christmas Lights Contest.
“It's just a little something to get the community to participate and hopefully they enjoy it. This is one thing that we have really tried to keep up,” said Charlene Smith, Haughton town clerk.
Judges toured entries Monday night before picking Fletcher Theus, of 541 Oliver Rd. as first place winner. Tyler Gillis, of 134 Camp Zion Rd., won second and Kim and Carl Riley, of 632 Alex Way, came in third. Best Decorated Street went to East Jefferson Avenue.
Entrants were evaluated on creativity, design, and over-all eye appeal.
“All they have to do to be in the contest is turn their lights on,” said Smith. “The judges are not citizens of the town itself. They do not live in town, which makes it less bias.”
Judges of this year's contest included Chris Turner, Nan Crow, April Stephenson, Abby Turner, and Danielle Bryant. Contest chairwoman was Wanda Turner and co-chair women were Madeline Toloso, Charlene Smith, and Nita Staton. Lt. Jonathan Ponder transported the judges to view entries and Jacky Hicks put up the town's own Christmas decorations.
Winners earned $100, $75, and $50, respectively. They also received a yard sign and plaque. 
Honorable mention includes:
- Jonathan and Crystal Rapelje, of 302 Boulder Dr.
- Shane and Renee' Sinuns, 301 Boulder Dr.
- Mary and Charles Dudley, of 126 S. Cherry Ln.
- Marcella Scott, of 433 Debbie St.
- Burtie and Bill Griffin, of 439 Shadywood Ln.
- Charles and Theresa Hale, of 3112 Turkey Creek Cir.
- April and Jason Gantt, of 100 N. Hazel St.
- Royce and Sandy Green, of 213 Pine Tree Ln.
- David and Kelly Gray, of 209 Cornerstone Blvd.
- Mike and Daphne Ritter, of 202 Pine Tree Ln.
“You don't need a yard full of lights to be a winner. Sometimes the simplest is most beautiful,” Smith said.
