Do you fly the American flag? California is telling a company to Not fly it. On the business’s own property! A Camping World location near Stockton, California, is withstanding local officials by flying a giant American flag after being told to take it down.
Authorities’ Position
Officials with the San Joaquin County Community Development told the business, located on Interstate 5, that the flag had to be removed due to supposed safety issues and a lack of a permit.
Authorities have cited concerns about the flagpole’s foundation, proximity to property lines, and location near the highway. They were also concerned it could fall over.
Response
When CEO Mark Lemonis learned about the problem, he ordered the flag to be raised. He remarked that if the company felt like anyone was in danger it would not put it up.
The company has applied for a permit but while waiting for officials to review it, Lemonis is standing firm.
Lemonis explained why he is flying the flag,
It’s symbolism about how we feel about this country. We have a lot of veterans who work for us, and a lot of veterans who shop with us [1].
He continued,
I was given the blessing of being able to enter this country and become a citizen, and I’m grateful for it [2].
Public Opinion
Social media users shared their opinions, one individual writing, “You just know that if that was a pride flag, there’d be no concern for ‘public safety.’”
“Unreal! It’s the AMERICAN FLAG,” another person commented, while someone else said, “That flag is massive! I love it!”
And for now, the fight of one business against the state for flying the nation’s flag, continues.
Notes:
- ^ {VIDEO: Camping World Raises Giant U.S. Flag in Defiance of CA Officials} (go back ↩)
- ^ {VIDEO: Camping World Raises Giant U.S. Flag in Defiance of CA Officials} (go back ↩)
