The Hurley Pride Committee is pleased to announce the 11th annual decorating contest judges were Dave and Linda Marquez-Tollefson and their grand-daughter, Ryan. “This was harder than I thought it was going to be,” said Linda. Luckily for Dave and Linda, little Ryan was there to break a tie.

First place winners and the award of $100 was presented to the Muñiz Family at 403 D Street, where The Grinch keeps watch over all the other characters frolicking in the yard. Second place and $75 were awarded to the Martinez Family at 217 Nevada; Nativity scenes and reindeer bring an old fashioned and warm feel to the home, which our judges thoroughly enjoyed. Third place and $50 was won by the Encinas Family at 609 E. Street where Santa watches over all. The Wofford’s at 11 Patty Street earned Best Fence of the year and $25. Honorable Mentions are located at: 13 Santa Rita Ave., 104 B Street and 43 Lea Drive. The Street that showed the most spirit and decorations was D Street and will be awarded a sign that can be proudly displayed at the top of the street for all to see and share.

While the judges were struggling over their decisions, the annual Hayride rolled through the small town. The horns of the vehicles honked to let folks know they were coming and the people, young and old snuggled in blankets on the trailer singing Christmas songs and chatting about their favorite decorations. They had all met at The Old Hurley Store in downtown Hurley to share hot chocolate and good company whilst enjoying the model trains and antiquities the store is collecting. Some good folks had returned after seeing Santa just that afternoon at The Patio restaurant. Santa was there to chat with the little ones and pose for pictures before giving the tots a bag of goodies donated by The Pride and Councilor, Ed Stevens.

Hurley Pride organized a hayride and residential lighting contest held on Dec. 16. 2017.