Updated: Jan 7, 2021

Although 2020 seemed to be a dark year of disappointments, Kenmore Neighborhood Alliance helped to end the year with a bright new tradition.

The Light The Boulevard Window Contest is a seasonal window decorating competition sponsored by Kenmore Neighborhood Alliance with support from Heritage Ohio. The competition paired artsy residents, organizations, and volunteers with Kenmore Boulevard business owners in a no-holds-barred creative match.

In its inaugural year, the Light The Boulevard Window Contest was a big hit with businesses, residents, and volunteers. “I had so much fun, I’m going to start planning for next year now,” said Nora Trogdon, one of the 20 artists to compete for a fully catered meal from Thai Soul Fusion. Jennifer Brumbaugh won the competition with her window display themed “Light of the World” located at New Beginnings Boutique and Thrift. The first runner-up went to Roberta Wrights & Dianna Stalcup’s “Snowman Wonderland” display at Rent A Center, and the second runner-up was awarded to Suzanne Mourton’s “Christmas Village” display at ManiKitchen Tea Shop

The Light The Boulevard Window Contest is one of two new holiday traditions. Thanks to support from the City of Akron and Community Hall Foundation, Kenmore Neighborhood Alliance also installed lights on the median trees of Kenmore Blvd. Those lights will remain up for the remainder of the winter season.

KNA executive director Tina Boyes said she hopes this new tradition can bring joy and attention to the Kenmore Boulevard Historic District.

Want to help make the Boulevard brighter next year? KNA is accepting donations of gently used decorations and lights. You can drop them off through Jan. 15 at the Kenmore Branch Library, 969 Kenmore Blvd. or the Kenmore Community Center, 880 Kenmore Blvd. 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Monday – Friday. For more information, contact betterkenmore@gmail.com.