US

GA Business Owner Reportedly Threatened With Fines & Jail Time for…Flying American Flag

An Albany, Georgia, business owner probably thought he was merely exercising his rights and exemplifying his patriotism by flying an American flag outside of his business. But when he received a ticket and was threatened with jail time, what started as a simple display of pride for one’s country has now become a legal conundrum.

Apparently Tom Gieryic’s flag, which had been outside of his automotive repair shop for more than three decades, was in violation of the city’s sign ordinance. An enforcement officer apparently told Gieryic that his flag wasn’t up to code. The issue unfolded, he says, when a group of retired Marines offered to put up a new flag at the shop. WALB.com has more:

A group of retired Marines retired his old flag and placed a new one on the pole Friday, when four hours later, code enforcement showed up concerning a 311 complaint about a small sign in the front of his business.

It wasn’t his and was taken down, then Officer Ruth Lewis raised issues with the flag. “She told me my American flag was a non-conforming or illegal flag, placed on the city’s right of way.”

GA Businessman Threatened With Jail Time Over American Flag | Tom Gieryic

Tom Gieryic and his flag (Image Credit: Albany Herald)

“I was shocked, man – a complete loss for words. I told [the enforcement officer] I wasn’t going to be moving my flag,” he said in an interview with FOX News. “She stomped off to her car, got her ticket book and demanded my license. She wrote me a ticket for flying my American flag on the city’s right of way.”

Gieryic claims that the officer said he could face a $1,000 per day fine and up to 60 days in jail if he refused to comply. But rather than buckling under the pressure and purported threats, he says he stood firm and kept the flag where it was. He decided to take the issue up with city officials and the ticket was subsequently reduced to a warning. Still, officials would like the flag moved by one foot.

“I’m boiling on the inside. They didn’t demand that I move it. They suggested I do it as a gesture of good will,” Gieryic explained.

GA Businessman Threatened With Jail Time Over American Flag | Tom Gieryic

Image Credit: WALB.com

The business owner isn’t shutting his mouth or backing down, as he says he’d like the law changed. Lawyers and people in the community, too, are joining him and pledging support.

“My local city manager has been more than fair,” he said. “He stands behind me, but the law is the law and his hands are tied.”

Gieryic is angry over the government‘s involvement in issues he believes shouldn’t concern officials. He claims that he‘s an American and that he should have every right to fly the nation’s flag wherever he wants, so long as there is no safety issues associated with doing so.

“That flag represents my dad to me that’s no longer with us, it represents our freedom, everything good about our county,” he also said.

(H/T: FOX News)

Comments (286)

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  • Al J Zira
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:14pm

    It’s only a violation if the wind blows in a direction causing the flag to fly over the sidewalk. If the wind shifts and blows the other way, there is no violation. They should make the official that wrote the ticket sit there and count how many time it actually flies over the sidewalk.

    Report Post » Al J Zira  
    • booger71
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:29pm

      American_Hot_Dog
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:22pm

      It was a code-official, not a cop. READ man, just put down your Beck-autographed pocket constitution, take off your 9/12 bracelet, and read with a clear mind. If you’re even capable of doing that.
      Report Post » American_Hot_Dog
      ———————————————
      It was a female “code official” with an axe to grind.

      Report Post » booger71  
    • goahead.makemyday
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:36pm

      “I was shocked, man – a complete loss for words. I told [the enforcement officer] I wasn’t going to be moving my flag,” You mean this line where it says an “enforcement officer”, I always that it was Law Enforcement Officer or LEO was meant by as “enforcement officer.”

      Report Post » goahead.makemyday  
    • TexBork
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:41pm

      So, if the flag blows to a direction, let’s say to the left, that intereferes with the government and somehow impedes it’s ability to control the people, that same governemnt the flag represents will then oppress the owner of the flag the government it supposed to support and represent? Yeah, I guess that‘s the new fundamental change in our nation’s new description of “patriotism” since Obama seized control of the nation.

      Report Post » TexBork  
    • lbyrd26
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:50pm

      I wish we had an issue with flying the American flag that was this simple here. I live in Anderson In. And we have a Kroger store here in the Applewood Center that has no respect for the American Flag. 4 examples will prove that.
      1) I repeatedly asked them to fly the Holiday Flag that PAYLESS always flew before Kroger took them over. They refuse to. They say they will but it wasn’t. up on Flag Day,July 4th. Veterans Day or Memorial day. It hasn’t flown in over a year.

      2)More disgusting than that, as a means of covering for not flying the Flag, they tried to say it was damaged and they wanted to take up a collection from the public for a new flag. Kroger is the biggest seller of groceries IN THE WORLD and they don’t care enough for the Flag to replace it themselves. They are currently building a Kroger gas station in front of their superstore here , but they can’t pay for their own flag!

      3)I mentioned one day at the service counter (Had to go there. If you buy at this Kroger, I’ve learned to check my reciept, to make sure they gave me the sale price and they didn’, again!) I mentioned that at least they were still hanging the flag over the service desk. The next day it was taken down.

      4) 2days before Veterans Day they took the last remainnig flag in their store down and in their lust to milk the Christmas holiday (without mentionning Christmas, of course) they put up a Christmas tree. Mid March, trees down Flag never went back up.

      Shop @ Walmar

      Report Post »  
    • Mateytwo Barreett
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 5:01pm

      @Lyberg26
      Can you say Goonion?

      Report Post » Mateytwo Barreett  
  • cessna152
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:13pm

    It’s comforting to know this is what our Law enforcement is doing… don’t worry about criminals or drug runners. Yes, continue to FINE and HARASS the honest taxpaying citizen and let the criminals go.

    Report Post » cessna152  
    • PeachyinGA
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:31pm

      Had to smile a little when the guy said “she stomped off to her car” to get her ticket book. She probably got mad when he said ‘no’. There must be a better way for her to earn her salary.

      Report Post » PeachyinGA  
    • 9111315
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:35pm

      It’s comforting to know this is what our local governments are doing. Hiring a code-official with public funds that should be used to hire a cop. Now you have code-officials HARASS the honest taxpaying citizen. The Law enforcement budget should go to Law enforcement officers, or don’t we need to worry about criminals or drug runners. Yes, the local government needs to continue to FINE and HARASS the honest taxpaying citizen and let the criminals go.

      Report Post »  
    • Lesterp
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:36pm

      hot dog, since you are so much smarter than us hillbillys, please point out what paragraph you read code official. I read code enforcement twice!

      Report Post » Lesterp  
    • The_Jerk
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:43pm

      The government is becoming the enemy of our freedoms. “They” hate us for what we are and what we represent.

      Report Post »  
    • Freedom Hound
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:51pm

      @ Hot dog
      I am not sure about the area in which you live, but code enforcement officers are law enforcement officers (cops) where I live. Aside from that you have added nothing but assumptions about another poster and nothing about the topic.

      Report Post » Freedom Hound  
    • mils
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:52pm

      here some athiests complained that crosses along our roads, crosses that represented highway troopers that had died in service, were an eyesore and should be removed, it violated their sense of whatever…of course the state caved..after the crosses being there many years..
      So, private land owners stepped up and donated land for each cross…now they are MORE visible than ever along the roads..:)
      If the flag was not in compliance, you must side with the law, or change the law.
      …I just don’t understand why we are targeting anything that is truly American, and moreover..why communities allow these things..

      Report Post »  
    • pavepaws
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:53pm

      He’s flying the flag on a right of way, and the city wants it moved one foot off the right of way?

      Report Post »  
    • SpankDaMonkey
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:59pm

      .
      What color was the enforcement officer?……It maybe a Racist Thing……….

      Gonzo these are your people. You should drive over take care of this?…….

      Report Post » SpankDaMonkey  
    • REPUBLICANINCALI
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:19pm

      Thinking we should all make a ghost of hotdogette and he will go away.

      Report Post » REPUBLICANINCALI  
    • Captain Crunch
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:20pm

      @American_Hot_Dog

      You need to change your name. You know nothing about being an American. You do know how to be a throughly disgusting Troll…POS!

      Report Post »  
    • Coralchristie
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:23pm

      American_Hot_Dog…Stop with the criticism of those who just want to be free to do right things without the harassment of the unreasonable bureaucrats. Just because some may listen to Beck or believe in the rights upheld by the Constitution, just because the writer cited the wrong enforcement person or agency, doesn’t invalidate the premise of the argument. We’ve stopped recognizing the true enemies of freedom. It’s the enemies from within, like the code enforcement officer without any sense of what is reasonable, that are destroying this country.

      Report Post »  
    • Shasta
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:24pm

      Hey hot dog, your argument is pretty weak if you have to resort to pointing out spelling errors. And the words ‘code official’ was not mentioned in the article, so maybe you should take some reading lessons. BTW, did you see the news today that hot dogs cause butt cancer? Seriously, after your posts, now I see why.

      Report Post » Shasta  
    • FFTyranny
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:40pm

      You guys that seem to be in support of the businessman. Do you not see the size of that Flag?
      For one thing the Flag CODE calls for the proper displaying of the Flag and size is suppose to be proportionate with the pole. That Flag looks like it should be on a 40 foot pole or bigger. Plus the huge Flag looks like it would whip every truck that past by. It’s is clearly blowing out past the curb. Lets be real here. Call the Marines back and have them just move the pole back some and hang a smaller Flag.

      FFTyranny  
    • Ruler4You
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:48pm

      Time to wake up moron. That isn’t a maritime Admiralty flag. America doesn’t exist under that flag anymore, if it ever did. Government feels threatened by a flag that represents the people. Which this one does.

      Best read up on law on “PERSONS”. After all, your ‘business’ “IS” a government entity and as such “IS” a PERSON. Certain restrictions do apply. And you had better know them.

      Report Post » Ruler4You  
    • WatchingObama
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:52pm

      @AMERICAN_HOT_DOG
      A “Code Official”? Really?
      I know you think you’re just so smukin fart but until this day, I have never heard of a “CODE OFFICIAL” having the authority to issue a ticket.
      Only a police officer, which is who the article states issued the ticket by the way, can issue a ticket.

      Code Official – PLEASE!

      Report Post » WatchingObama  
    • concealled9mms
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:55pm

      if it was a mexican flag all would be quiet

      Report Post »  
    • bulletsinthegun
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 4:15pm

      Follow the money, he will pay to keep his shop open. Hot_Dog, get a life

      Report Post » bulletsinthegun  
    • wtune
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 4:31pm

      @AMERICAN_HOT_DOG
      I believe anyone with the legal authority to impose large fines and jail time is a law enfocement officer. They may not be authorized to arrest teenagers drinkin in th park, but they are still law enforcement officers. Sadly, we have too many people with such authority. It’s like the old saying, “Give an idiot a badge and a gun, and you can be sure he’ll shoot somebody,” Some people just like to show off their supposed power until their bosses ask them, “What were you thinking, you idiot?”

      Report Post »  
    • Mil-Dot
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 5:03pm

      Cops today are not about “serve and protect” and doing what is right. They have become nothing but an enforcement arm-a goon squad doing the biddings of arrogant political hacks. Mayors, alderman, governors, congressman, senators use them to threaten the public when they are disagreed with. I have totally lost all respect for most of them. There are still a whole bunch of good guys and gals out there, but they are few. “Law enforcement” should be renamed “revenue enhancement” because really folks, that is all that they are. I can take care of myself, I just want them to get the hell out of the way. Americans can take out the trash with ease if they would just buzz off. But, they won’t. Because it is ALL about the M-O-N-E-Y.

      Report Post »  
    • jcldwl
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 5:31pm

      It was code enforcement not law enforcement. There is a difference.

      Report Post » jcldwl  
    • Izzy2626
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 5:58pm

      Name anything wrong with the coutry or the world and Ill tell you why its because of liberalism

      Report Post »  
    • TheCoffinMaker
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 6:00pm

      Unfortunately the flying of the American flag is short lived.

      …because the Mexican flag is soon to replace it.

      Report Post » TheCoffinMaker  
    • dsuitts
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 6:57pm

      As much as I wanted to be mad about this and find that the enforcement official or whatever was harassing the flag owner, this is not the case. The flag owner put the flag on the city’s right of way, which is NOT his property, it belongs to the city. This would be like him planting the flag in front of the city library on city property. He does not have that right. They even asked him to move the flag back one foot, which would more than likely put the flag on HIS property. This story is getting twisted into something it is not. I’m 100% for citizens flying the American flag ON THEIR property, but public property or property owned by the city falls under the rules governing that particular property. All he has to do is move it 1 foot and all is okay. He still gets to fly the flag and the city is happy.

      Report Post »  
    • Thatsitivehadenough
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 7:08pm

      Investigate the political affiliations, organisations, educations of those in the city council/local government. See if you find unsavory associations to communist or socialist groups or orgs. I bet you will.

      Report Post » Thatsitivehadenough  
    • CanadianBeef
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 8:18pm

      My neighbours to the south, YOU must stop complaining and do your duty in November and vote MR Obama out office! You have had enough change!

      Report Post » CanadianBeef  
    • BarackStalin
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 8:24pm

      Clearly anyone flying the American flag in America should be prosecuted for a hate crime…

      How are the illegal immigrants supposed to feel?

      Report Post » BarackStalin  
    • Wolf
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 8:44pm

      ONE frigging foot?Those filthy communist sonsofsluts should be tarred, feathered and run out of town on a rail.
      Anf that‘s being nice for waht I’d really love doing to them.

      Report Post »  
    • PASSIONFORCHRIST
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 9:04pm

      Yah! LEAVE THE ILLEGALS ALONE AND HARASS AND BASH THE AMERICAN (CITIZENS) PATRIOTS!!!!!!

      Report Post »  
    • ChiefGeorge
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 11:52pm

      She stomped off in a huff because he a White man was not going to give into her power trip!

      Report Post » ChiefGeorge  
    • StonyBurk
      Posted on March 14, 2012 at 8:32am

      Officer Ruth — reportedly confronted the owner about a sign in violation of the City Codes. That sign was apparently removed. then she said something about the flag. My questions are was she opperating on her own initiative?(which police Officers sometimes do) Or was she sent (as police Officers sometimes are dispatched) The Flag has been displayed properly under the US Flag Code from what is reported
      Retired Marines ought be able to vouch for that. There is no report of any prior complaints about the Flag. And Unless the Officer or her boss is a Muslim -or a Democrat– and just harrassing a Patriot IMO the Flag ought remain posted as it is. And the Officer formally apologize Last I checked we were still the United States of America–and Our Flag is not the foreign flag of the Queer Nation– Nor is it the flag of the slaves of the moon god Allah.Whom we are trying to bring into the 2012 era of nations not subject to the bloody Islamic Caliphates. So I think the Officers apology is/perhaps at a formal ceremony -called for.The rest of us if we got a gripe with a business just take our business elsewhere.

      Report Post »  
    • rabblechat
      Posted on March 14, 2012 at 8:49am

      My knee jerk reaction was the same as yours, but after a second look at the pictures I’m not so sure the city is in the wrong.

      Take a look at the first picture, lets assume this guy is 6ft tall. This flag is on a very short pole, even with what appears to be a fairly stiff breeze, this flag is hanging well below shoulder height.
      Now take a look at picture number two: this flag is very close to a busy road (5 lanes or more) and a intersection.
      Taking into consideration its extremely low hanging height and close proximity to the road and intersection I bet this guy was cited because his new flag is obstructing the view of drivers.
      Another thing I noticed in picture one is that he appears to have a much taller and substantial flag pole within a few feet of this flag. Why isn’t he using this pole?
      One last observation, This flag appears to be hanging over the sidewalk which would be an issue for pedestrians.

      Report Post » rabblechat  
    • wbedding
      Posted on March 14, 2012 at 10:22am

      let’s see…what poses a greater threat to the public…the guy exercising his First Amendment rights, or the dude doing the drug deal across the street while the police are citing the business owner? the way this country is going right now, if the police caught the drug dealer, they wouldn’t arrest him for the drugs, but for being a capitalist and trying to make a living.

      Report Post » wbedding  
    • Bloody Sam
      Posted on March 14, 2012 at 10:34am

      It’s not law enforcement officers per se who are being the jerks.
      It is one particular Little Hitler Control Freak, Code Enforcement Officer Ruth Lewis who raised issues with the flag. She is the one who is being the jerk and acting like an imperious a-hole who is screaming and kicking her feet because one of The Little People, a mere serf…a peasant…has dared to question her authority.
      I don’t think the rank and file LEOs have anything to do with this.

      Report Post » Bloody Sam  
    • MYHEROISRON
      Posted on March 14, 2012 at 12:35pm

      I would have shot her then buried her out back with the other liberal marxist’s …

      Report Post » MYHEROISRON  
    • huufarted
      Posted on March 14, 2012 at 3:40pm

      I checked and this petty bureaucrat is (of course) a BLACK DEMOnCRAT …

      Report Post »  
  • Redleg
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:13pm

    So fight back. Blaze can you provide a number to the PD so we th people can call and give our 2 cents about the idiot cop who can’t seem to figure out her role as a Peace officer and the spirit of the laws she enforces. Since she has nothing better to do than harass patriotic Americans perhaps 1,000 complaints filed against will get her sent off to a meter maid job where she belongs.

    Report Post » Redleg  
    • American_Hot_Dog
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:23pm

      It was a code official, not a cop. Try reading the article, rubber-head.

      American_Hot_Dog  
    • RJJinGadsden
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:36pm

      Albany Police Uniform Div – (229) 431-3286
      225 Pine Ave, Albany, GA

      Albany Police Community Rltns – (229) 430-7928
      530 W Broad Ave, Albany, GA

      Albany Police Dept – (229) 430-5300
      530 W Broad Ave, Albany, GA

      Albany Police Animal Control – (229) 430-3938
      530 W Broad Ave, Albany, GA

      Albany Assistant Police Chief – (229) 431-3289
      201 W Oglethorpe Blvd, Albany, GA

      Albany Police Chief’s Office – (229) 431-3277
      201 W Oglethorpe Blvd, Albany, GA

      Police Department Juvenile Ofc – (229) 431-2123
      201 W Oglethorpe Blvd, Albany, GA

      Albany Police Dept-Forensics – (229) 878-3141
      201 W Oglethorpe Blvd, Albany, GA

      Albany City Mayor – Mayor Dorothy Hubbard
      (229) 431-3244
      222 Pine Ave, Albany, GA 31701

      Report Post » RJJinGadsden  
    • Lonescrapper
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:39pm

      American Hot Dog – you keep pointing out it was a code official, but lets just agree that the code official was going to put him in jail and force him to pay a fine deeper than if he had been drunk driving and pulled over by a COP. Every municipality now uses codes and regulations to do what the police used to do. I guarantee you that you can’t step out of your door and drive down the street without violating some law, code or ordinance. We are ALL criminals thanks to things like this.

      Report Post » Lonescrapper  
    • Redleg
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:43pm

      Hot dog,
      you join the Blaze yesterday and today you have 9 posts all insulting people. How much do you get paid to be a liberal lapdog troll. Your also a coward. Your the type who’ll hurl insults at folks behind a key board but if we were face to face you would be nice as pie. Because you know if you called me a stupid name I would beat your ass. Coward.

      Report Post » Redleg  
    • BlazingInSC
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:50pm

      http://www.albany.ga.us/content/1798/2879/2949/default.aspx

      City of Albany, GA – Code Enforcement Division contact Information.

      Report Post »  
    • RJJinGadsden
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:51pm

      @AMERICAN_HOT_DOG “I told [THE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER] I wasn’t going to be moving my flag,” This is mentioned twice in this wording only. May I suggest that you remove your head from your fourth point of contact and open your eyes just long enough to go read it again. I was a cop in another life time and I know what an enforcement officer is. Code enforcement officials are called City Inspectors. Since this guy has been in business with that flag flying in the same location for thirty years plus, he has dealt with City Inspectors from time to time.

      Report Post » RJJinGadsden  
    • American_Hot_Dog
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:55pm

      RJJinGadsden: so your source is the accused? seems tainted.

      American_Hot_Dog  
    • RJJinGadsden
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:00pm

      @AMERICAN_HOT_DOG, My apologies. I just looked it up on another site and it was a Code Enforcement Officer. Allow me to pull my boot out of my mouth now.

      Report Post » RJJinGadsden  
    • American_Hot_Dog
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:05pm

      angry Redleg: you want the government phone numbers? why don’t you mind your own business, instead of harassing the governments of towns you don’t pay taxes or vote in? just curious.

      American_Hot_Dog  
    • American_Hot_Dog
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:07pm

      @RJJinGadsden – you never know when foot-in-mouth will strike next…could be any one of us :)

      American_Hot_Dog  
    • RJJinGadsden
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:14pm

      AMERICAN_HOT_DOG, It does occasionally happen, but when I know that I have made a mistake I will take responsibility for it.

      Report Post » RJJinGadsden  
    • RIGEL_ORION
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:31pm

      Don’t feed the monkeys people. Anyone in the comments section either agrees and has something to add… or is a DB taking an antagonist view, regardless of the issue.

      Report Post »  
    • Mil-Dot
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 5:10pm

      Anybody want to bet that she is either A. way overweight or B. Unattractive? Who wants to bet me?

      Report Post »  
    • Mil-Dot
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 5:18pm

      Who cares if it was a cop or code official or animal control? Bottom line is they are goons paid to harrass the people and get money out of them. Who cares what words are engraved into their badge? They are all cut from the same cloth.

      Report Post »  
    • TexasHunter
      Posted on March 14, 2012 at 10:59am

      @ AMERICAN HOT DOG. You never know when foot in a.s.s. is coming your way. If I had it my way it would have been done already. Lord knows it should be. Grow up and stop being a troll. You are not a Patriot or a true American. You need a southern talking too. I will be happy to make you earn my respect.

      Report Post » TexasHunter  
  • AnAmerican111
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:12pm

    Wow! The OBAMA Nightmare continues to find ways in its attempt to destroy America!

    Imagine that!….. Flying the America flag is against the law…………….I wonder if you flew a Mexican or a ********** flag if that would be legal

    Report Post »  
    • Lumbar Spine
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:18pm

      What does Barack Obama have to do with a city enforcing its own code? You do understand the flag in question is on city property, right…?

       
    • American_Hot_Dog
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:24pm

      It was a violation of code. Code that was in place long before Obama. You’re all worked up over nothing. See how easily manipulated you are? Too funny.

      American_Hot_Dog  
    • encinom
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:29pm

      No, if you read the article it is unclear if he is flying it on his property on on the city’s property. His attitude that he can fly the flag whereever he feels is incorrect.

       
    • mdeputy7
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:33pm

      Actually Lumbar it is not on city property…..it occasionally flies over city property. Stupid rule.

      Report Post »  
    • booger71
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:34pm

      Hot Dog,
      THE OFFICER said it was a City Code Violation (not building code) you idiot
      The Buffoonington Post is missing an I D I O T

      Report Post » booger71  
    • SoupSandwich
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:42pm

      56 billion of additional regulation cost per year has been attributed to Barry the savant, and these morons- he doesn’t even care if they vote or donate 56 k per plate at a fundraiser, are in his pocket and on the defense 24/7. Swallowed it whole and are still smiling and mumbling his defenses. Kudos to the lefties-I couldn’t do it.Dog, Spiney, Encinomom, Rose ellen, wow- what anal fortitude on dislplay.

      Report Post »  
    • randy
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:14pm

      Hey Wiener Dog!
      How much does Soros pay you to pedal your BS around here?
      Do you actually think you’re going to change anyones mind?
      What a dolt!

      Now STFU and Pass the relish idiot!

      Report Post » randy  
    • RIGEL_ORION
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:19pm

      No point in posting in response to the trolls people. Their goal is to waste your time with late-night comedian type comments that obviously will not withstand serious scrutiny.

      - Post a flag in a city park and see how long before its simply removed – no questions asked. – Then consider the idiotic and misleading qualities of a city property post and the goal of its author.

      I find that the most interesting and compelling questions aren’t answered by this article.

      1) Was this flag previously covered by a grandfather clause in the sign ordinances? Did the new flag differ in dimensions, height, etc.?

      2) Did the ordinance official visit the business as the result of a complaint or on her own accord? If via complaint, who called it in?

      These are the questions that will correctly identify the true issue and remove the problem. Shine sunlight on the anti-american progressive in the city and don’t allow them to hide behind policy.

      Sign ordinances and the busybodies who always seem to gravitate to the enforcement jobs are a problem in a lot of towns. Created in the name of neighborhood beautification, their initial goal was almost always to get rid of a particular sign that a person in power didn’t like. Exceptions and variations are added throughout the years until you get an American made tool for attacking America.

      Report Post »  
  • dusko
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:12pm

    Don’t worry friend. Eric holder is on his way…..er….wait a second you are a white guy so you are on you own!

    Report Post » dusko  
  • jpurdy99
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:11pm

    Ridiculous! I say keep it where it is. If he’s not ordered to move it (which he wasn’t – and never should be), he doesn’t have to move it. He’s right – it’s the American flag. We live in AMERICA! Fly it high and proud my friend! High and proud! :D

    Report Post »  
    • American_Hot_Dog
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:25pm

      It’s a code violation. It’s on city property. Are you saying it’s okay to illegally occupy city property? What are you, with the OWS?

      Get a grip.

      American_Hot_Dog  
    • mdeputy7
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:35pm

      Hot Dog……It’s NOT city property. Learn what you’re talking about before you speak. Just makes you look ignorant.

      Report Post »  
    • Lonescrapper
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:40pm

      Since it’s the sidewalk, it‘s most likely a ’right of way’ and has been granted from the property owner as an easement to the public. It does not make it city property, and the property owner is still responsible for it’s care and maintenance.

      Report Post » Lonescrapper  
    • Lonescrapper
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:45pm

      In fact, I bet the city code refers to the maintenance of keeping the sidewalk clear, and not anything about the city owning it. People get code violations for not mowing the grass on the other side of the sidewalk – how can the city make you maintain THEIR property if public right of way is city property?

      Report Post » Lonescrapper  
    • Freedom Hound
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:55pm

      @ Hotdog
      The flag has flown there for over 30 years, why is it now a problem to the city? You seem to be getting bent out of shape for nothing here, you throw alot of assumptions around as fact.

      Report Post » Freedom Hound  
    • HorseCrazy
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:02pm

      too many government workers trying to justify their existence and salary. why do we need sidewalk enforcement it is just getting out of hand. I am sure firing this lady would save the local government atleast 60k a year. sounds good to me.

      Report Post »  
    • THGIC
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:16pm

      AMERICAN_HOT_DOG,

      That flag is not technically on city property. His flag is planted on his property, and depending on how the wind blows, the flag is then flying over city property. Isn’t it funny though – trees on people’s property does the same thing – and those hang over the sidewalks (some do, some don’t). I don’t see city officials getting their panties in a bunch about the trees.

      And it may be asinine to think/say, but who would walk on that sidewalk, considering that it is mainly used for entering into the property parking area/driveway? It seems kind of crazy, but nonetheless, they choose to enforce something as petty as a flag that only temporarily flies over their sidewalk.

      If this is what they do in their spare time, then they deserve the anger of the public.

      Report Post »  
    • freedoc
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 6:59pm

      What I find most interesting is the argument that its ‘on city property’.

      The big issue lost there is: Why does the ‘city’ even own the property? Who, in theory, gives them that right?

      The people, supposedly. Perhaps this is far afield, since the ‘city’ made an ordance( we assume) that the people agreed with.

      My point it to illustrate that there is a tacit assumption in local, state and federal governments that ‘they’ own the land, that they are distinct and sovereign, above and seperate from those who REALLY own the land: Americans. The citizens.

      They mayor then, is correct is saying, ‘it violates an ordance’. The correct response( which is posted) is then for the PEOPLE to take back THEIR city land, and throw that ordance out—and permanently erect a flag in that location.

      And while they are at it, put the following flag on the same pole: DONT TREAD on ME.

      Anyway. Pardon my thread stealing.

      Report Post »  
  • COFemale
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:10pm

    Although he has a right to fly the flag, I do believe he does not have a right to fly it on a pole he erected on city right-of-way property. This has nothing to do with patriotism or lack thereof. It would be like me erecting a pole in the middle of my cul-de-sac, flying a flag, and planting flowers around it; the property is NOT mine and it would impede traffic.

    They also said if he moves the flag 1 foot there would be no problem. Unfortunately, this citizen is in the WRONG and the city has every right to ask him take it down or move it.

    Report Post » COFemale  
    • ChildofJesus
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:22pm

      Pc my friend. That‘s all I’m saying you’re welcome to figure the rest out.

      Report Post »  
    • BSdetector
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:24pm

      So the city owns his lot where the business is located? I haven‘t researched it but I have a strong feeling that you’re just making things up as you go along, much like your illustrious leader.

      Report Post » BSdetector  
    • CLEttinger
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:28pm

      It’s been there for 30 years. I would consider it “grandfathered” and call it a day. This makes the city look very small.

      Report Post » CLEttinger  
    • Balthazor
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:29pm

      I agree. Especially if the flag actually is obstructing the view of traffic. It’s hard to tell from that picture. I don’t care how patriotic someone is, but if they stick a flag where it obstructs the view of traffic, it’s got to go.

      Report Post » Balthazor  
    • RIGEL_ORION
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:38pm

      So the new flag obscures the view but the other did not for decades? Pretty thin argument. Considering the nature of flags and wind, any real obstruction in line of sight would only occur on days with a steady wind of 20 mph or more.

      Let’s call a spade a spade. There is somebody behind the scenes with an agenda that set this whole thing in motion. A good reporter would find that person – that’s the story.

      Report Post »  
    • captaincameron
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 8:57pm

      Okay, I’m with you that the city has the right to ask him to take it down, but it’s the American Flag.
      Look at the picture–the flag is too high to be an impediment to pedestrians and it is also too high to obstruct the view of drivers.
      In short, the flag is not a danger to anyone. If it could cause harm somehow, sure, ask him to move it, but otherwise, it’s the American flag. Fly it proudly.

      Report Post » captaincameron  
  • s0ck_monkey
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:10pm

    A similar thing happened to me while I was stationed at Hunter Army Airfield and living in Savannah, GA, except I was flying the flag in my yard. My house was in a subdivision and the Homeowners Association said I couldn’t have fly it – I forget what obscure reason they gave – it was back in early 2001.

    I wrote a nice rebuttal letter, citing all the United States Codes for the flag, pointing out that I was following the rules for displaying the flag as set forth by the Federal Government, and if they didn’t like it, they could take me to court over it. That was pretty much the end of it.

    If I was this guy, I’d agree to moving the flag like the city wants – I would mount a 100ft pole on top of my business and fly a garrison flag – they are 20‘ x 38’

    Since we’re on the subject of the flag – most people don’t know that anything with the likeness of the flag, and that includes drawings of the flag, and things such as napkins, paper plates, etc you see at July 4th picnics…is to be treated as such. So people that just throw those things in the trash are dead wrong. Just a bit of “Hey, did you know…?” info for you.

    Report Post »  
    • 45
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:09pm

      I agree and I bet people would donate to the cause. The only thing I would add, is lights so I could fly it at night.

      Report Post »  
  • spirited
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:06pm

    So, for thirty years the American Flag flew with no problems?
    Now, take it down as a “gesture of good will” ?????

    That lady officer sounds a bit like that wigged-out flight attendant.

    >Flag Day is every day!

    Report Post » spirited  
  • cloudsofwar
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:04pm

    tattle-tale.

    Report Post »  
  • hauschild
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:00pm

    The Brown Shirts are coming…The Brown Shirts are coming!!!

    Report Post »  
  • floridacockleburr
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:00pm

    OK, you’ve made Fox News. Obey the law and move it a foot.

    Report Post » floridacockleburr  
    • docvet
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:28pm

      I agree. This is a win-win compromise. The city can say,”There, we made him obey the law getting the flag off the right-of-way (by moving it 12 inches)”. And he can say, “I stood up to the city and the flag is just where it was (minus 12 inches)”

      Report Post »  
    • RIGEL_ORION
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 4:03pm

      No, that’s not it. This was obviously orchestrated by someone. Government doesn’t work that fast spontaneously – especially on a Friday. I’d demand a clarification of the discrepancy in code enforcement for 30 years, the reason why the code official was there so quickly and a legitimate reason why a flag can’t be flown in this location.

      Sign ordinances are notoriously arbitrary, so making a flag exception isn’t a problem unless someone in the city government wants to make it one.

      Report Post »  
  • Darmok and Jalad at Tanagra
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:00pm

    Looking at the picture of where the flag is, I would have to agree with the city official. Where it is located is not his property, and with the flags height, it could flap into a bus or truck, get snagged and cause damage or injury. He should just move it back onto his property, simple.

    As far as the officer attitude, if that did happen, she needs to simmer down now.

    Report Post » Darmok and Jalad at Tanagra  
    • andync77
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:15pm

      Yeah. It is not just an ordinary flag. It looks like it could take over the whole city block.

      Report Post » andync77  
    • hauschild
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 3:10pm

      @Darmok,

      Sure – and if my aunt had nutz, she’d be my uncle.

      Report Post »  
    • THGIC
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 4:28pm

      DARMOK AND JALAD AT TANAGRA,

      I have a problem with this whole thing about the flag being moved back…

      That flag has been in that spot for 30 years (according to the locals), and now – for some unknown reason – the city thinks that this flag is in violation of being in the “right of way” in traffic? Since when in the 30 years that owner has kept that flag there, has that flag been in violation? If it was, then apparently it took the “Code Enforcement” 30 years to send someone out there, and make a big fuss about it. And I seriously doubt that it would take them 30 years.

      So, what is the problem with him keeping the flag where it is now? From the looks of it, the flag would not touch any car on the street – given the height – unless a vehicle were to drive on the sidewalk.

      Report Post »  
    • kushisaac
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 6:01pm

      on the ocean

      Report Post »  
    • Darmok and Jalad at Tanagra
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 8:15pm

      It does say that some Marines just replaced the flag. It is bigger than the standard 3×5, so, if they put a bigger one, it could be outside the parameters. Just saying, not enough info to take one side or the other, I know when you are talking about that 3 feet between the sidewalk and street, that is a right of way for utilities and such. The pole does look short and for the size flag that is on it, a little flimsy. Going on my experience with flag poles (I have a 25ft one in my yard), the smaller ones tend to snap in high winds. After going through 3 poles in 3 years, I bought a steel, 1/8th steel one, good up to 90MPH winds. Just looking at the photo, that looks like one of the flimsy ones you buy at lowes. Not a big deal really, ordinance says it can’t be on the street like that, move it back a few feet. It just seems like a silly fight to pick, but like I said, if the official was snarky with him, she was in the wrong. Just my observation from the photo provided.

      Report Post » Darmok and Jalad at Tanagra  
  • thegreatcarnac
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:00pm

    One day….“authorities” are going to come to force a private citizen to take down a flag, or a sign, or some other anti-American reason….and they are going to be met with an irate bunch of American citizen. It will break into gunfire…and that will be the beginning. It will be another ‘shot heard around the world”.

    Report Post »  
  • TexBork
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:00pm

    At least nobody was chanting “USA! USA! USA!” I think the police are required by a federal mandate from Obama to shoot anyone who does that.

    Report Post » TexBork  
  • Beckofile
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 1:58pm

    Wow…It is even happening in the South. Go down Federal in Denver and all you see are Mexican flags.

    Report Post » Beckofile  
    • American_Hot_Dog
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:07pm

      I’m sorry for your loss…

      …of reading comprehension.

      American_Hot_Dog  
    • SoupSandwich
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:19pm

      Dog
      Look at you all rogue without your truth partner. You go girl. Do you get points per post or is it time on a site, how does it work? You sound white-in tone and inflection, if that can be imparted via text. Do you feel let down knowing you are actually extraneous; your view and support is actually not wanted by those you support. It is get the black vote out season. Take your guilt and high opinon of yourself on down the road.

      Report Post »  
  • American_Hot_Dog
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 1:58pm

    And the right blames the left for “manufactured controversies.”

    Listen, the flag is massive and it‘s in the city’s right of way. These ordinances are in place for a reason: public safety. Doesn’t matter what the object is, be it a flag or a whacky inflatable waving arms guy, it’s still against the law and in the way.

    Get a grip, people.

    American_Hot_Dog  
    • Mark0331
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:02pm

      Massive? Which is it…a storm, post or garrison flag? Have any idea what those words even mean?…knowledge is a good thing.

      Report Post » Mark0331  
    • SoupSandwich
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:07pm

      Piss off wanker. That plain enough? We really do just need a simple flash point to clear the air- come on, rent some cojones if you have to but please make an issue of it. Go out and rent some union thugs, get all the frijoles you can muster for 9.99, all the LGBLT and CAIR types and the fricken commie party in Madison-whoever you feel you need, make it an issue and be part of the solution process.

      Report Post »  
    • Lonescrapper
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:42pm

      The city doesn’t have a right of way on a sidewalk – the public does. (this is 20 years of surveying/civil engineering speaking). If the city had the right of way on the sidewalk, they could prevent YOU from walking on it.

      Report Post » Lonescrapper  
    • Lonescrapper
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:46pm

      Most businesses have signs on their property right of way – or mailboxes. Is your mailbox on your cities right of way? Does it impede pedestrian traffic? You might be violating your city code in all sorts of ways. You have no idea the minutia that is city code.

      Report Post » Lonescrapper  
    • SoupSandwich
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:50pm

      So in essence you are not a Slut for the left? How? Your man/child is now responsible for 56 billion a year in new regulations. Does that help your over inflated ego at all? Is that a little smoking penis on your hotdog? Those OWS camps linger long after they are gone huh? Troll on dog.

      Report Post »  
    • Robert-CA
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 6:47pm

      so for 30 years that was fine but now suddenly the city wants it removed .
      I bet that a left loon like you got offended by the US Flag as usual .

      Report Post » Robert-CA  
    • jblovesAmerica
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 6:56pm

      the grip is slipping down the drain as we watch the Freedom wain.
      Many itmes on the watch list-how did the American Flag make the top of the list?
      This person who was writing the ticket-should be fired-run out of town.

      Report Post »  
  • cloudsofwar
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 1:58pm

    i love the flag but it looks awfully low to the ground for it’s size. maybe it’s just the picture.

    Report Post »  
  • bum
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 1:57pm

    How DARE YOU show patriotism for FREEDOM!

    Report Post » bum  
  • Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 1:55pm

    One more example of the out of control madness the progressive shave inflicted on this nation.

    Report Post » Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}  
  • Hickory
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 1:55pm

    If the citizens of Albany, GA had a set of balls they would meet at this man’s business and demonstrate. In their demonstration, they should challenge the local government to come and do something about it. The only way to stop this crap is to get in their face with several large crowds and force their hand. I doubt the city wants to lock up 40 or 50 citizens exercising their rights. Ok, Georgians, do it or shut up about being Americans.

    Report Post » Hickory  
    • Redleg
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:15pm

      Exactly right. If sheeple keep rolling over for this it just gets worse.

      Report Post » Redleg  
  • chameleonx
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 1:54pm

    America what happened? I do not the different laws from state to state and county to country. However I have seen all kinds of business, shops, etc use American flags outside their place of work. Heck! I even seen many have American flags with other flags (different countries [Russia, Japanese, Mexican], school and college flags, sports). I’m proud to be an American. I see no wrong with anyone wanting to put up a flag.

    Report Post »  
  • Owt_Raged
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 1:52pm

    Is anyone shocked by any government’s attack on the patriotic American or their outward displays of patriotism? I’m not.

    This is fast becoming a communist country, where freedom will be just another word in a dictionary, if we are allowed to have it in our dictionary anymore.

    Report Post » Owt_Raged  
    • grassroots
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 1:59pm

      U agree Officer Ruth Lewis from Albany, GA is un-American and should move to another country.

      Report Post »  
    • lukerw
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:00pm

      Time to increase the population of Canada, AGAIN!

      Report Post » lukerw  
    • gperky
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:01pm

      You are correct! Our very own government is suing it’s own states because they uphold the law of the land. Our Christianity and Religious freedoms are being taken away on a daily basis and they now dictate what we must buy and from whom! Our freedoms and Liberties are being trampled on and we are just standing by and watching it happen. What happened to America? What happened to the people that made this country great?

      Report Post » gperky  
  • lukerw
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 1:51pm

    The British are coming… the British are here…

    Report Post » lukerw  
  • Mark0331
    Posted on March 13, 2012 at 1:51pm

    Find the person who called 3 1 1…tar and feather them and run them out of town on a rail.

    Report Post » Mark0331  
    • SoupSandwich
      Posted on March 13, 2012 at 2:09pm

      Exactly.

      Report Post »  
    • CLG 4
      Posted on March 14, 2012 at 9:41am

      Let get this straight. The flag has been there for thirty years, the zoning laws must have allowed or it would have been sighted then. So what changed, I would be suspect that the city is run by socialist democrats that don’t know thier oun zoning laws and what grandfathering is.

      Report Post »  
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