Decor is a blend of style and substance.
Decoration delivers a message designed to reveal the artistic intent and appeal to recipients' sensibilities.
The Christmas season is a time when people are drawn to decorate their homes.
And, again this year, the Christmas Home Decorating Contest is being held. It is sponsored by the Jefferson City Parks and Recreation Department, Cottonstone Gallery and Frame Shop and News Tribune Co.
The foundation of Christmas, and a popular decorating theme, is celebrating of the birth of Christ, which has included manger scenes, angels and the Magi.
Other decorating motifs have included Santa Claus, elves, reindeer, sleighs, snowmen, carolers and more.
In recognition of the range of decorating tastes, the contest seeks entries in five categories. They include: Best Use of Lights; Best Religious Display, Best Use of Christmas Characters; Christmas Elegance; and City's Best, for previous Mayor's Award winners.
The deadline for submission is noon on Dec. 7. Entry forms and complete contest rules are published periodically in the News Tribune.
Preliminary judging will be conducted on announced dates to determine winners in each category in each of the city's five wards. The ward winners then will compete for the Mayor's Award in each category.
The event, however, is more than a competition among home decorators, it also provides a database and map for the community to drive by decorated homes. To that end, the entry form offers the option to add a home solely for viewing, not judging.
Whether you decorate your home for Christmas or simply enjoy seeing the decorations, the annual Home Decorating Contest is designed to enhance the spirit of the season.