Top local light displays announced for annual house lighting contest

Many local houses are lit up to ring in Christmas, however one Sidney residence in particular grabbed the attention of judges during the annual Sidney House Lighting Contest.

The Cheyenne County Visitors Committee has been hosting the contest for more than a decade to help promote Christmas spirit within the community. Each year different winners are selected, allowing a wide range of houses to be selected for the top prize.

Brian and Jodi Dougherty won first place and $100 in the contest for their decorations at 2682 Monterey Drive. Second place was awarded to Jeremy and Carrie Nesbitt at 633 Huckleberry Lane, and they received $75 for their display. Michael and Rachel Copeland took third place and $50 for their decorations at 2255 Trail Road.

The most outrageous and elaborate house took home the "Griswold Prize," named after the family in the movie "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation."

This year's "Griswold Prize" was awarded to Judi Morrison at 1404 Cedar Sreet. Morrison also received $100.