More Light Shed on Flag Debate

William R. Stratton (Letters to the Editor, April 17), in writing about the Gruczelak family, who had been told by the Faria Beach Homeowners Assn. that their American flag was offensive, states that the light shining on the flag creates problems for the neighbors . . . “like living by the grand opening of a car dealer.”

I was recently a guest at the Gruczelak home, and I observed the lighted flag. It created no light spillover on the neighbor’s property at all. The light shines straight up at the flag at an angle that creates very little spillover even on the Gruczelak property. The flag makes no flapping noise and has special casings to stop any noise from the attachment brackets. It’s a beautiful sight.

The Gruczelaks have received overwhelming support from many folks--some of them immediate neighbors--who love the sight of 50 beautiful stars added to their vista.

From my point of view, the Gruczelaks are good neighbors and good citizens who aren’t embarrassed to openly express their love of country in a respectful and dignified way. Apparently, that description doesn’t fit the majority of Faria Beach Homeowners Assn. board members.

BRUCE C. SCHAEFER, Thousand Oaks