LIGHT FIGHT! New Jersey family facing $3000/day fine for Christmas lights display…

Move over Griswolds! Tom and Kris Apruzzi in New Jersey have you beat for Christmas decoration enthusiasm and they’re willing to bet the bank on retaining the title!

For the last 15 years Tom and Kris Apruzzi have gone all out (x1000) with a blinding Christmas lights display that, like the Christmas Star, draws onlookers from near and far.  As much as the dazzling display delights, some of their neighbours finally had their fill last year and complained to the city.  The complaints included onlookers blocking their street, creating safety issues like emergency vehicles not being able to get through if needed.  The city responded with a warning to the Apruzzis that, if they put up their display again this year, there will be a $3000/day fine levied against them to help offset costs associated with increased police presence ($2000/day) and shuttles in and out of their neighbourhood ($1000/day).

Tom Apruzzi claims he’s not deterred and plans to light up the night Dec. 1 saying, “If they shut me down, they’re going to have to talk to my attorney.”  Citing his First Amendment right  to freedom of speech and religion. As for the risk of racking up tens of thousands of dollars in debt to go ahead with the display, the Apruzzis are hoping those who take in the sights will contribute to a Gofundme campaign to help them cover the fines.

Who do you sympathize with more…The Apruzzis or their disgruntled neighbours?  Is there a “Griswold” family in your neighbourhood?