Cutler Bay resident Hoffman Cruz, now 22, continues to decorate his family home with an elaborate display of Christmas lights for more than just the usual reason of celebrating the season. He mainly does it do honor his late dad, who was brutally murdered on Aug. 6, 2010.
Cruz does all of the work on his own, from building the nativity scene to climbing a ladder to string the lights on trees, the roof and around the yard. It usually takes him a month to set up everything, so he starts in early November.
C ruz said he estimates that there are upwards of 14,000 lights in the display located at 9551 Martinique Dr.
The 6-foot-3 tall Miami Dade College student is studying electrical engineering, which seems appropriate, and is a graduate of John A. Ferguson Senior High.
The yearly display is a personal passion and an expression of love.
“Each year, I dedicate it to my dad because I’m grateful to him for teaching me how to be creative and show people that whatever you put effort on, the things you desire to do, you are the one that can make it happen and reach your goals,” Cruz said.
His efforts to make a difference extend beyond the holiday season and he is appreciated in the neighborhood, according to town resident Marilyn Horne.
“He is such a nice kid,” Horne said. “He does everything for anyone in the neighborhood.”
I saw the story in the local community paper today, and I recognized you immediately from working with you at Macy’s Dadeland Mall. My name is Carol and I work with you briefly in the linens department. You were always were sweet and kind, not to mention very helpful. May God bless you and keep you and your family forever. I am the older lady with glasses and I would wear my hair pulled back in a bun. God bless you!
I’m proud about my son and thank you Hoffy for keeping our family tradition and inspiring people never give up their goals. May God bless you always. Thank you my little present. Thank you baby and I love you so much ?
Thank you for acknowledging my brother.We apperciate his hardwork and dedication during this time of the year.He truly keeps our father’s spirit alive during the Holidays.