Straits Times Forum 25 Dec 08;
MR VERNON YONG: 'I refer to Tuesday's report, 'Bright Xmas at home' about the lavish light-up of Mr Leonard Francis' home. I enjoy driving past the house every evening when the lights are on. But I must question the extravagance, especially in the current economic climate and considering the current global drive to conserve natural resources. May I humbly encourage Mr Francis to re-direct his generosity for Christmas, next year, to the many charitable and voluntary welfare organisations in Singapore.' X'mas XXL
Yen Feng, Straits Times 22 Dec 08;
CLUNY Road is one of the poshest streets in Singapore, but none of the private homes there inspire awe quite like that of Mr Leonard Francis.
The house features what is likely Singapore's most lavish display of Christmas decorations.
An $8,000 nativity scene, forged by Italian statue-makers, graces the front lawn, a life-sized Santa and his reindeer sit on the roof and the entire property is awash in light.
While Mr Francis was not home , he has developed a reputation as one of Singapore's most ardent Christmas decorators.
Last year, he reportedly spent $25,000 on the display and this year's edition has some new additions.
A new, larger 'star' looks down on baby Jesus, who is swaddled in the manger. Around the house, at least two more pine trees have been put up. Outside, along the home's grassy perimeter, more twinkling reindeer have joined the fold.
Mr Francis, who is Catholic, is following up on a tradition of decorating that was started by his grandfather, a former employee said last year.
It is one he wants to continue for his two teenaged sons.
On Monday, Mr Francis' home burst into colour when the lights came on at 6:35pm.
One neighbour came up to the house with a video camera in his hand.
Another, walking his golden retriever, stopped and took a photo with his cell phone, while traffic along the narrow road slowed to a crawl.