Holiday Light Contest Editor's Choice Winner: Lake County
Shaun Albeck of 791 S. Sienna in Round Lake is the Daily Herald Holiday Lights Contest Editor's Choice winner in the Lake County area for 2019.
Q: How long have you been decorating your house like this?
A: Around eight years, and every year the displays grows.
Q: What inspired you to go all out with your decorations?
A: Growing up, my mom always enjoyed decorating, so I guess I got that gene from her. Once I started my own family, I suppose I took that to the next level.
Q: How many hours does it take to put up the display?
A: 60-plus hours, and every day there is general maintenance/upkeep.
Q: How many strings of lights are involved?
A: Since our bushes/trees are limited, we only have around 60 individual light strings; however, we have over 100 vintage blow molds and figures.
Q: How much does your electric bill spike in December?
A: Not as much as you would think thanks to LED. Ninety percent of the display, including the vintage blow mold, have been converted to LED. Before LED, December's bill's increase averaged $250. Thanks to LED, about $75 a month increase.
Q: What do your neighbors think of your display?
A: They love it. Many stop by just to point out what's new each year and, as you might expect, the nickname “Griswold” has been thrown around.