E. CAPE GIRARDEAU HOLIDAY DECORATIONS CONTEST WINNERS

EAST CAPE GIRARDEAU, Ill. -- Mr. and Mrs. Don Hileman, of David Drive, were winners of the first annual East Cape Girardeau, Ill. Christmas Decorating contest.

Finishing second and third in the contest were Mr. and Mrs. Robert Porter, of Eastwood Drive, and Mr. and Mrs. Steve Brown, also of Eastwood Drive.

Judging was held Thursday.

"The judges had a difficult time making their decision," said Carolyn R. Thomas, E. Cape Girardeau village clerk. "There were several beautifully decorated homes."

The contest was a big success, said Thomas, and another contest is planned for 1999.

People from the area are invited to drive through East Cape and observe the Christmas decorations, said Thomas.