A quick observation: The reed switch might have been "sticky" not because of the strength of the magnet, but because of the current all those lights required. F

A quick observation: The reed switch might have been "sticky" not because of the strength of the magnet, but because of the current all those lights required. For any given reed switch, there's a current that will keep it from disengaging once it engages. Reed switches are generally considered signal devices, not current switches for this reason.