HOLIDAY OF LIGHTS: PRIDE, SPIRIT AMONG REASONS FOR TOUR

Red, green and white were the traditional lights of Christmas, but these days it is no holds barred when choosing light colors and other decorations for outside the home or business.

The Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce and the Cape Girardeau Convention and Visitors Bureau have come to appreciate and reward residents who take the time and trouble to decorate their homes and businesses for the enjoyment of passersby.

The official Convention and Visitors Bureau route of the fifth annual Holiday of Lights Tour was available from the CVB office Friday.

Not only can motorists pick up a map and look at homes, businesses and churches decorated for the holiday, but the CVB also offers a $1 bus tour of the city's tribute to the season.

The homes highlighted by the CVB were actually recognized last week by the chamber. Seven judging teams toured the town last week looking at the outdoor displays at several homes and businesses. From a list of nominees, each team of judges nominated a non-residential and two residential displays for the tour. Six businesses, a church and 14 homes made the final cut and were chosen for the 1995 Holiday of Lights Tour.

Judges said they looked for beauty when considering nominees.

"We look to see if the lights are on straight, if they took a lot of time decorating and if it is pretty," said Mary Spell, one of the judges. "We also look to see if they keep Christ in Christmas."

Tom and Dena Nelson of 1810 Montgomery observe the holiday with theme decorations at their home. This year, Tom's '50s' Christmas Diner was the family's theme. The outdoor displays included a jukebox and a 1956 Ford.

"We do something different every year," said Tom Nelson. "It's really fun for us."

Advance tickets for the bus tour can be purchased at Schnucks Midtown, Schnucks on Kingshighway, West Park Mall and the CVB. Tickets also may be purchased before spectators board the bus at the West Park Mall, if seating permits.

The tours will leave at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday from the old Port Cape or entrance B of the mall.

For more information about the bus tour or receiving a map of the route, contact the CVB at 335-1631.