B'game is composed of a fantastic variety of neighborhoods with a wide variety of architectural styles — or at least the original homes in the neighborhoods have compatible styles. The Daily Journal is shining some light on the tiny Willborough neighborhood with this piece on Christmas and Hanukkah lights. Here is an excerpt but do click through for the full B'game holiday spirit
More houses in the neighborhood formed by Willborough Road, Willborough Place and Neuchatel Avenue between Oak Grove Avenue and Palm Drive glow with more holiday lights than ever before, stopping and slowing cars passing through the narrow streets.
John Ward has lived in the neighborhood since 1975, and has decorated his house for as long as he can remember. His house was once the only source of light on the street during December, drawing the eyes of passersby with a glowing Santa, sleigh and reindeer in the middle of his front lawn.
This year, Ward has adorned his traditional, English-style Tudor house with white icicle lights hanging from the roof’s edges and colorful globe lights brightening the trees on his front lawn. Ward has placed his famous Santa sleigh and reindeer, as well as a bright star, on the roof of his house. They shine over the glistening Christmas tree that fills his front window.
But this year, Ward’s house is joined by several other houses whose residents have chosen to celebrate the holidays in similar fashion.
Ron Leavy bought his starter home in the neighborhood 40 years ago and never left. Initially drawn to the area by its proximity to downtown, Caltrain and freeways, he found it difficult to leave the close-knit community he found there. “We watch out for each other,” he said.
Leavy is Jewish, and chose to decorate the trunk of the large evergreen outside his home with blue and white lights in celebration of Hanukkah. He also embellished the roofline and bushes outside his home with bright white lights. Leavy credits the neighborhood’s friendly attitude with the proliferation of decorations this year.
The Voice wishes you all a peaceful holiday and a Happy New Year.
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