a local realtor, Joyce Bauert, put small flags (about 24" stick, and 9" x 12" flag) in front of all 80 houses in my subdivision. Many other nearby streets also had the same flags. All the flags I could see from my driveway this morning and those on other streets had 4" x 5" printed plastic cards with the picture and full contact information for the realtor. When I came back at mid-day all the flags I could see from my driveway had the plastic cards removed. Most other streets still had the card.
Some flags were stuck in the dirt right at the curb, others on the house side of sidewalk. I suspect these flags cost about $0.50 each in large quantities. More expensive than a direct mail piece but probably much more advertising impact.
My personal opinion is as it was three years ago. I think it is inappropriate for anyone to put out anything in yards on a mass basis. The prominent and blatant ad for a realtor makes it that much more inappropriate. If the ad had been left off, I would be much more accepting of the placement of these flags.
In these times, wrapping something in the flag makes it acceptable and patriotic, even a realtor's ad. I recognize that authorities are not likely to take action and some will feel differently. That's OK.
#1. "RE: Flag Spam in Farmers Branch" In response to Reply # 0
I have a realtor in my neighborhood in Austin that does the same thing. And I, too, resent wrapping a commercial message in the flag.
I think these realtors went to the same marketing seminar and got this suggestion along with putting bunches of balloons on their directional, for sale and open house signs.
I don't know what happens in your neighborhood, but in mine most of the flags will still be there a week from now, many of which will have fallen over and are laying in the grass, dirt or street. So much for respect for the flag.
But try picking them up before the 4th like we would any other street spam and you'll be branded as unpatriotic in your neighborhood. Happy 4th to all,
#2. "RE: Flag Spam in Farmers Branch" In response to Reply # 1
As a vet and a CEO the flag is a sticky situation. I will turn and let any one fly as many U.S. flags as they want. I know that they are trying to atract attention to there business. I do draw the line. If you are going to fly the Flag, have respect. I do not let some one advertise on the flag. That means NO wording, cards, airbrushed pictures, or anything like that. Just the flags. Fly as many as you want. Just do it with respect. To many good floks have lost their lives for what the Flag stands for. It is not your personal ad canvas. Many of us have bled and some have died for your rights. It is not your right to deface this banner for your proffit. I have no problem removing a defaced flag and pointing out these feelings, as a vet first, and then as a CEO. GOD BLESS THE USA.
"If your not living on the edge you are taking up to much space" unknown
