Holiday display dispute in Boca Raton

BOCA RATON, Fla. - To many people, but not all, it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Boca Raton public offices.

"It's not looking like Christmas because there is no nativity," said Jeff Field the Catholic League Director of Communications.

Officials with the Catholic League are not feeling so jolly because they say the city has put up menorahs and Christmas trees, but there is no sign of baby Jesus in a manger.

"Jews have more than enough right to have a menorah up for Hanukkah. We would just like equal footing, We would like to see Boca Raton put a nativity scene right next to a menorah," Field said.

The city has fired back saying they celebrate the holiday season by having displays in the lobbies of public buildings in a manner consistent with Supreme Court and other judicial rulings. And the displays are city owned.

"It isn't a question of legality now. It's a question of moral responsibility and whether or not the city of Boca Raton will do the right thing," Field said.

In an unscientific sample, Boca Raton residents seem split on the issue. "I think both religions should be represented," said one. Added another, " It really doesn't bother me at all." A third said, I think that there is a Christmas tree, there is a menorah, I don't think we need a nativity scene."

At Sanborn Square park, a place that serves as a free speech area, there's a menorah with a sign that reads "Happy Hanukkah," a Christmas tree next to a "Happy Holidays" sign and a nativity scene next to a disclaimer explaining that the city didn't finance it. It was donated... and you wont find any signs that say "Merry Christmas."

The menorah was donated by the East Boca Chabad, the nativity scene by St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church.

All of the lights, the Christmas tree and 'Happy Holidays' sign are owned and put up by the city.