I don't object to the concept of homeowners associations. But they are run by volunteers, who too often are busybody control freaks who abuse their power.
Yes I did in fact read the article. The flag in question is NOT an American flag.
He has two flags, and American flag and another with some completely screwed artist's rendition of an American flag, which IMO (as with all "altered" American flags) is in extremely poor taste. The flag in question is the latter.
If it were an American flag, the HOA wouldn't have a leg to stand on.
He needs to quit whining, keep his American flag flying - as per U.S. law - and take that other POS down, as per contract law and as per the documents he signed when he bought his home.