Holiday Light Contest Editor's Choice Winner: Fox Valley
Ruben Arreguin of 1200 Blue Ridge Parkway in Algonquin is the Daily Herald Holiday Lights Contest Editor's Choice winner in the Fox Valley area for 2019. We checked in with Arreguin to learn more about how and why he does it.
Q. How long have you been decorating your house like this?
A. It took me four evenings, plus one whole day of work by my wife, Bozena, and kids, Chris and Michelle.
Q. What inspired you to go all out with your decorations?
A. Usually we visit the family abroad in December, but this year we decided to stay at home, hence the effort and attention to decorations.
Q. How many hours does it take to put up the display?
A. It's hard to say. We are busy and work whenever we can, but it took at least 30 hours I think.
Q. How many strings of lights are involved?
A. 20 icicle sets, 12 candy cane sets, 12 light strings, plus yard decoration tress and figurines.
Q. How much does your electric bill spike in December?
A. Unfortunately, we have not been billed yet. I think all decorations have LED lights, so it should not be as bad.