FLAG FLAP: More comments today from readers about Mike Smith and
his disagreement with the city over the flags at his business
reportedly causing some right of way problems on East Main
Street.

Former Bradfordian Don Hudson writes, “How sad it is when our
flag is considered a nuisance. There are more things to be upset
about than a man showing our country’s flag.”

Carl Andress of Bradford says, “Anyone has the right to fly an
American flag where he chooses. However, flags should fly ‘free’ –
free of contact with people, buildings, trees, and especially the
ground.

“Mr. Smith flew these flags for years down on Mechanic Street,
and now, East Main Street. Why now are they coming down on him?

“His flags are not creating any kind of hazard. The real hazard
is people driving around the potholes on East Main. When will they
get some attention?”

Bob DeSantis of Maryland writes, “Fly those flags, Mike. Maybe
if you think about it, a flag is not a sign. The flag is a symbol
of America. I am also a Vietnam vet and proud to see people
continue to display the flag.”

Other readers had a different perspective.

Jean Hvizdzak says, “I think that the presentation of the issues
with Mr. Smith is being skewed the wrong way. I’m sure Tom Riel has
said it – it’s not the issue of the flag. But the paper has been
printing comments that show it’s a patriotism issue when it’s not.
It’s about something else.

“The issue is the safety, not the flag. I’m as patriotic as I
can be. I fly my flag, but safety – not patriotism – is the
issue.”

Bob Bluhm writes, “It’s time for cooler heads to prevail. Mike
should have moved the flags. The flag, the Constitution, being a
veteran of any war does not give him the right to violate a statute
or ordinance. That action is ‘unpatriotic.’ We are a country of
laws. We are obligated to live by those laws regardless of whether
we agree with them or not. Not to mention a very valid question of
public safety.

“Mr. Smith will have his day at the hearing, but he wastes
everyone’s time when he could realize the flag, displayed on his
store, on the sidewalk or any place any reasonable person would put
it, would be the better solution than the stance he has taken.”