Bringing new meaning to "won't you be my neighbor" or grinch
Lights, noise and other fun
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JoeUser Forums
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From The New York Times, Link here: Yard Display's Neighbors Wish for a Silent Night
December 27, 2004
By RALPH BLUMENTHAL
... more at linked article
As noted in subject, this guy (and his neighbors) bring a whole new meaning to the old Mr. Roger's "Won't you be my neighbor?" question.
Personally, I'm somewhat a libertarian when it comes to property owner rights. But at the same time, your rights end at your own property lines, and if your activities are infringing upon my right to peace and quiet, than we may have something to discuss.
I tend to fall inline with Mr. Birkett, and am very happy to see someone that seems to get that much joy and happiness (and help to spread that much also) from the season. If his neighbors (as noted in the article) knew in advance about his displays, then I think they have no right to complain. The hours that are listed don't seem unreasonable though I suppose the neighbors might have to get up for early commutes or something similar -- but if that is the case, then they should perhaps politely have asked Mr. Birkett to cut back on the hours for his display and activities.
Hopefully someone will have an update on this case later (I found the original link via DrudgeReport). It could be fascinating.
I'm definitely a bit curious why the neighbors wouldn't just sell the home to settle the dispute, though they have a right (within reason) to live anywhere they wish. Given that there are other parties that would love to live nearby, it seems a bit pig-headed to stay in a situation you aren't happy in.
December 27, 2004
By RALPH BLUMENTHAL
... more at linked article
As noted in subject, this guy (and his neighbors) bring a whole new meaning to the old Mr. Roger's "Won't you be my neighbor?" question.
Personally, I'm somewhat a libertarian when it comes to property owner rights. But at the same time, your rights end at your own property lines, and if your activities are infringing upon my right to peace and quiet, than we may have something to discuss.
I tend to fall inline with Mr. Birkett, and am very happy to see someone that seems to get that much joy and happiness (and help to spread that much also) from the season. If his neighbors (as noted in the article) knew in advance about his displays, then I think they have no right to complain. The hours that are listed don't seem unreasonable though I suppose the neighbors might have to get up for early commutes or something similar -- but if that is the case, then they should perhaps politely have asked Mr. Birkett to cut back on the hours for his display and activities.
Hopefully someone will have an update on this case later (I found the original link via DrudgeReport). It could be fascinating.
I'm definitely a bit curious why the neighbors wouldn't just sell the home to settle the dispute, though they have a right (within reason) to live anywhere they wish. Given that there are other parties that would love to live nearby, it seems a bit pig-headed to stay in a situation you aren't happy in.