Residents show patriotism through home decorating

by Laura Bednar

The city put their usual Independence Day fireworks display on hold this year and in its place, held their first-ever home decorating contest. Executive Assistant to the Mayor, Darlynn Velotta, said she came up with the idea and organized the contest to “let people display their patriotism in a different way.”

The “Spirit of Patriotism” contest invited residents to decorate the outside of their houses with patriotic displays. Participating residents sent a photo of their decorated home to the city for judging. Three city employees judged the photos based on creativity, style, and the overall message the decorations conveyed about Independence Day.

Eight homes participated, which Velotta said was a good turnout for a first-time contest.

The two winners were Patrick and Stephanie McCarthy for their home at 6629 Public Square and Judy and Sonya Topola at 6594 Wood Ave. Each family received a $100 gift card. ∞