Man fined for "Obama" Christmas display

New Port Richey, Florida-- A Pasco County man who put a message to Barack Obama at the center of his home's Christmas display is being fined by the county.

Joe Athas says the sign painted on his roof which reads "Obama and Joe the men" is not about politics, but about pride.

"I think it's my right as human being, as a parent and a citizen of the United States to be proud of my president and my country," Athas says.

The New Port Richey resident originally painted the message the day before the election, but eventually made it part of his holiday display.

He didn't find out there was a problem until Tuesday morning when a Pasco Code Enforcement officer showed up at his door saying it was illegal to display political signs more than 15 days after an election.

Neighbors we talked to were surprised by the county's decision.

"That sinks! It's his house. He's not doing anything wrong. He's not hurting anyone," said Henry Exstarowicz.

Athas has now been given seven days to have the message removed or face an $80 fine.

He's asking the county to reconsider its decision saying he only wants to keep the sign up until New Year's Day.

No matter what happens, Athas says he plans to keep the sign in place through the holidays, even if he's forced to pay the fine.