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“In towns and cities... there is no more important institution than the local paper.”
Warren Buffett
December 10, 2022
By Brian Hews
Every year, over 20,000 people stop by to view an award-winning display in La Mirada.
It’s an annual tradition for Jeff Norton, who takes the time to put together his “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” themed decorations which includes a replica display of the Griswold family home for the holidays.
Snow machines create a winter scene as families enjoy the decorations, complete with Cousin Eddie’s camper, Uncle Louis on the lawn with the burnt out tree and Clark’s boss Frank Shirley — bound and gagged to represent the Griswold family’s first kidnapping.
In 2021 it almost cam crumbling down. Norton added a fake second story to his single-story home so it better matched the film and La Mirada threatened him with fines for building the fake story without a permit.
The City Council backed down from the fines when the Lamplighter reported on the issue.
“They were worried about things happening at my house and pretty much we’ve got all that ironed out,” Norton said, noting that as long as the city of La Mirada isn’t held liable for any mishaps or issues, they’re fine with the festive display.
