New Castle, PA - A local cemetery association and a veterans agency are concerned about a recent theft of flags from veterans‚ graves. Marlene Myers, a spokeswoman for Catholic Cemeteries of Lawrence County, reported more than 100 ‚ possibly 200 or more flags are missing from graves in St. Mary and Madonna cemeteries in Union Township. The flags turned up missing after Christmas, between Dec. 26 and 30, she said. They had been on the graves since Memorial Day. Myers said a couple of cemetery workers noticed the flags missing and reported it to her. She said she reported it to the Union Township police.
The police did not issue a report at the time, but assured the association they would provide extra patrols in the area. Myers also reported the missing flags to the Lawrence County Department of Veterans Affairs, which purchases them for the veterans‚ graves every year for Memorial Day. The whole cemetery had flags and now they‚re gone." Myers said. She added the grave markers and flag holders were untouched. About six flags that surrounded the mausoleum at St. Mary Cemetery also disappeared, she said. Shirley Noga, county veterans affairs director, said each year the county purchases about 15,000 flags that are placed on veterans‚ graves at all the cemeteries in the county.
If you didn't know that Texas cities have flags, there might be a simple explanation: they're mind-numblingly, hilariously dull. Many cities seem to opt for seals rather than flags, but a cursory search of Wikimedia Commons turned up about 20 flags belonging to cities in the Lone Star State. San Antonio predictably sticks the Alamo right in the center of the flag, while Dallas and Houston just go with a giant star containing the city seal against differing backgrounds.
Indiana - Three local agencies are spearheading major construction projects this year that would honor the county's past, present and future service men and women. The Eliza Rizley Stacey Clay County chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1127 and American Softball Kids are working to build a military park that would feature softball fields and a veterans memorial honoring all five branches of the military. Craig Park has been selected as the location of the military park. DAR Veterans Committee Chairwoman Cindy Kowitz said three years ago club members expressed interest in doing a memorial for the six revolutionary war soldiers buried in Clay County.
After searching for an area to plant six trees and install six markers in the soldiers' honor, they found out ASK was thinking of doing something similar. "(After hearing about ASK's goals for the military park), we just jumped right in and said 'hey, this is something that we wanted to do and have been talking about it for a long time in the club,'" Kowitz said. ASK representative Karen McQueen said the VFW-sponsored softball program has been seeking a more permanent field to play and began discussing the prospect of using property in Craig Park in Spring 2015. Since that time, through donations and a $5,000 grant from the Clay County Community Foundation in 2014, they are closer to their goal of opening up the softball fields with a tentative groundbreaking ceremony for the first field scheduled for next month. "
"We were very fortunate to get the money," McQueen said about the grant. "It shows they see the softball field being a huge asset to the community." In honor of the continuing VFW support and to recognize all service men and women in the county, it was decided the first field be named Veterans' Field. "
"The VFW is backing us and the military has always been near and dear to us," McQueen said.
"We have a lot of family members who serve in the military. We just want to give back to the armed services." Memorial to honor all five branches of the military. While ASK works to get the fields in place, DAR and the VFW are working to create the memorial. The agencies are already fundraising for the project. The goal is to have enough money to complete the project by Veterans Day. Preliminary plans are to construct a five-point star featuring each service branch. "
"Each point will display a service insignia laser-engraved in a black granite stone, as well as that branch's flag," according to a news release from DAR. "The American flag will be highlighted in the center of the star, and will always be lit at night to signify that our servicemen and women are always working to protect our nation." In addition to the star, six shade trees will be planted in honor of the six revolutionary war servicemen and there will be a brick-paved walkway, the release continues. Kowitz said French Funeral Home has committed to donate the six trees, markers, five granite military branch emblems and an engraved bench to the cause. The VFW Post 1127 will provide all the flags for the park. Also, anyone can purchase a brick that can be designed to their liking through DAR for $50.
Kowitz said local residents or businesses interested in donating can do so by contributing to an account at Riddell Bank titled "Craig Military Park." Also, the VFW post will host breakfasts each Monday from 8-10 a.m. at the post's headquarters on South Depot Street. A free-will donation will be taken with all proceeds going to the memorial. For more information about the memorial contact Kowitz at 812-443-0150. "We're just real excited about it," Kowitz said. "We think it is a very important project. They need to be honored. Not just the people who died but all military personnel."
Freeport Flag Ladies March for the Troops even in Blizzard
Posted on: January 28, 2015
FREEPORT (WGME) -- Even with a blizzard bearing down on Maine, the Freeport Flag Ladies showed how dedicated they are to their mission. The ladies were out as usual Tuesday morning on Main Street in Freeport, waving their flags and honoring those who serve our country. "They've been doing this every Tuesday since September 11th, and clearly, nothing will stop them. They say they didn't stay out as long as usual Tuesday morning, but who can hold that against them."
A young Sara Tun waves a flag given to her mother, Mimi Tun, after she was naturalized as a new American citizen Thursday. The Tun family lives in Knoxville, but are originally from Myanmar. by Sarah R. Gregory - Greenville Sun Newspaper of Greenville, TN
More than 70 people from dozens of countries around the world formed a common bond Thursday when they were naturalized as American citizens. Two naturalization proceedings were held Thursday at the James H. Quillen U.S. District Courthouse. Marcia Phillips Parsons, chief U.S. Bankruptcy judge for the Eastern District of Tennessee, presided.
"Let me be the first to address you as 'my fellow Americans' and to welcome you," Parsons told the 41 new American citizens, originally from 21 different countries, gathered for the morning session.
Another 30 citizens from 24 different countries were naturalized in the afternoon.
In Florida, American flags will have to be "Made in the U.S.A." according to the new All American Flag Act that‚ Gov. Rick Scott has said he will sign‚ mandating that all Florida city, county and state government agencies fly American flags that were made in the United States.
The Senate bill was passed Wednesday on a 38-1 vote after the House passed it last month. Citizens and companies can still buy foreign-made American flags for home or business use. But starting Jan. 1, 2016, government agencies have to buy American, the Tallahassee Democrat‚ reported. "
"When the state, a county or a municipality purchases a United States flag, or a state flag for public use, the flag must be made in the United States from articles, materials or supplies, all of which are grown, produced and manufactured in the United States," the All American Flag Act reads. Democratic state Sen. Jeff Clemens used debate on the bill to jab at the House, which ended its session three days early on Tuesday, leaving hundreds of bills unfinished. "
"American workers work hard," Clemens said, advocating for the government to use flags made by U.S. taxpayers. "They would never quit and go home early."
North Carolina man wants to create flag of humanity
Posted on: May 4, 2015
The Flag of Humanity on display in Germany. The flag is a design showing adult hands giving the world into the care of a child's hands.‚ [/caption] A Western North Carolina man is launching a fundraising campaign to create a flag that would celebrate the commonality of being human. The flag of humanity project is unique and seeking others to help it come to fruition. Bruce Benson, of Weaverville, was hiking on the Appalachian Trail with his son seven years ago when he says he had an epiphany.
I got to thinking about what kind of a world he would inherit." said Benson in a statement to the media. Never in the history of our civilization has it been so imperative that we celebrate our commonalities instead of fighting over our differences.
The evening of their hike, Benson drew a template for a flag in his journal. The flag of humanity was sketched out and he later took his drawing to a design team in Asheville. The final product shows a set of adult hands handing off the earth to a pair of child hands. "There is an inherent responsibility in the image." Benson said.
"Flags are powerful things." he added. Every nation on earth has a flag. Children in many countries pledge allegiance to their flag everyday in school. The image of the American flag being raised at Iwo Jima is a powerful, passionate image that has lasted for decades. When humankind went to the moon a flag was planted. The flag of humanity‚ ideal is giving our children the world. Every parent wishes to do that.
The initial goal for the campaign is to get one flag into at least one school in every country on earth. The ultimate goal is for it to be displayed in every school throughout the world. "A lofty goal, I know." said Benson. But if not now, when? If not us, who?."
CNN gets facts wrong in America's best and worst state flags story
Posted on: May 8, 2015
CNN made a goof in the story by Ryan Bergeron entitled "Sorry, Montana! America's best and worst state flags" when describing the U.S. flag that flew over Ft. McHenry during the War of 1812. He said the only difference between the flag then and now was the number of stars.
Here is the direct quote: "The only difference in the flag that flew in 1814 and the one we see now is the number of stars. That, coincidentally, is the only critique that Ted Kaye has about the current U.S. flag." THAT is incorrect information.
That particular flag also had 15 stripes, not 13 as we have now. At that time the nation was adding both a stripe and a star for each new state but once it got to 15 they decided after that the flag would look rather ridiculous if they kept adding more stripes.
So they returned to the original 13 stripes for the 13 original colonies and only added a star each time a new state entered the union. The story about the best and worst state flags is a good story. It just needs to have a correction made, though we couldn't find any way to send a comment to let CNN know, that their facts were wrong.
Arkansas‚ FlagandBanner.com to celebrate Armed Forces Day with "Fearless" Book Signing
Posted on May 12, 2015
In wrapping up a week long Armed Forces celebration, Arkansas‚ FlagandBanner.com will host a special book signing in the showroom at 800 West Ninth Street, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 16. Armed Forces Day is Friday, May 15, so please remember to fly your flags at half staff on that day.
Members of the Fearless Rock Adam Brown Underwater Memorial dive team will be signing books and sharing dive stories and information about the memorial dive site. These volunteers regularly maintain and improve the memorial at Blakely Dam on Lake Ouachita, which flies underwater flags supplied by Arkansas‚ FlagandBanner.com as seen in the latest issue of Brave Magazine.
Everyone is invited to drop in the entire week to enjoy special savings in the store and pick up advance copies of Fearless‚ to ensure you have a book to be signed on Saturday. Currently there are both hard back and soft cover versions of the books available in store. Visitors may also enter to win a flagpole kit complete with Old Glory, proudly made in the U.S.A. Winners will be announced no later than Monday, May 18. Armed forces day was created in 1949.
The single-day celebration stemmed from the unification of the Armed Forces under a single Department of Defense. Arkansas‚ FlagandBanner.com would like to thank all of our enlisted men and women as well as our military veterans for answering the call to serve our nation. We look forward to serving you this week! For more information about the book signing or about Arkansas‚ FlagandBanner.com products or services call 501.375.7633 or visit them online at http://www.flagandbanner.com.
Each year we lower flags for Memorial Day but often people forget that it is only a half staff for half the day. Learn more about our nations most recognizable symbol on this Memorial Day weekend. Monday, May 25, 2015 is Memorial Day and a half staff day. This national holiday is designated as a half staff day, however it is different than other half staff days as it has two statuses.
At sunrise, the flag - if not already on a staff lit overnight- should be raised briskly and then lowered to half staff ceremoniously.
The flag on Memorial Day should only remain at half staff until noon, at which time the flag should then be raised to full staff until sunset.
As we celebrate this national holiday remember the true reason for its creation was to honor our men and women lost during war time and to honor those who still serve or have served our nation.
June 1st marked the first official day of the Hurricane Season. So far, the scientists are saying that this 2015 hurricane season should be below average. To the National Water Service that means a 70% likelihood of six to 11 named storms. These are storms with winds of 39 mph and they predict that 3 to 6 of these hurricanes can have winds of 74 mph or higher. They went on to say that zero to two major hurricanes which are storms with 111 mph winds or higher.
The thing is, just one major hurricane can devastate an entire region not just one state. Katrina, Sandy, Ike, Charley, Andrew, and Allison are some of the most intense hurricanes in recent history. Thankfully in recent history people can be warned and prepare for hurricanes and hurricane season in general, better than in the past.
The top‚ most deadly hurricanes happened during a time when meteorology was far from the science it is today. Today forecasters still get it wrong sometimes even with sophisticated computer models but much less so than in the past.
According to the Weather Channel: Based on a pressure of 892 millibars at landfall in the Florida Keys, the Category 5 Labor Day hurricane of 1935 is the most intense hurricane on record to hit the United States. The very small hurricane underwent an amazing amount of strengthening from a Category 1 to a Category 5 as it moved from Andros Island in the Bahamas on September 1 to the Florida Keys on the the evening of September 2. According to NOAA, maximum sustained winds at landfall were estimated to be 185 mph with storm surge reaching 20 feet. NOAA says that the combination of winds and surge caused 408 fatalities, primarily among World War I veterans that were working on construction in the area. Many victims were waiting for the arrival of a train from Miami that would evacuate them, however it never arrived since much of it was swept from the tracks by the hurricane.
With Hurricane Season just beginning this summer our graphic artists at FlagandBanner.com have put together a printable safety sheet. This handy infographic gives instructions on how to prepare a Weather Emergency Kit including how much water is needed per person, tips to protect valuable papers and documents (like your insurance policy and identification) and reminders not to forget about your pets and sanitation. It is easy to remember lanterns or flashlights but also easy to forget the batteries they need. Hopefully our guide will help you be prepared for this Hurricane Season. Click here to download and/or print this handy information and checklist.‚ ../../images/hurricaneprepinfograph.jpg
When you look at a chart of the world's national flags, Nepal's jumps out at you. It's the world's only non-quadrilateral national flag.
A quadrilateral is a four-sided polygon with two parallel side.
Article 5 of Nepal's constitution states: "The national flag of Nepal, as handed down by tradition, consists of two juxtaposed triangular figures with a crimson-coloured base and deep blue borders, there being a white emblem of the crescent moon with eight rays visible out of sixteen in the upper part and a white emblem of a twelve-rayed sun in the lower part." Schedule 1 of the constitution provides exhaustive instructions on how to draw the flag. Here's just one of five steps needed to draw the border."From A draw a line AC perpendicular to AB making AC equal to AB plus one third AB. From AC mark off D making line AD equal to line AB. Join BD."
"You really have to brush up on your geometry in order to be able to draw it from the description," says Graham Bartram, the chief vexillologist of The Flag Institute, a British non-profit devoted to the scientific and scholarly study of flags. Vexillology, by the way, is the "scientific study of the history, symbolism and usage of flags". Bartram describes the shape of Nepal's flag as two pennants on top of each other and says the pennant triangle is a traditional shape for flags in South Asia. If so, then why is Nepal the only country in the entire world with the pennant shape for its national flag?
"It's more a case of the rest of the world copied Europe and Nepal decided not to," says Bartram, who is British. "Europe chose rectangular flags because that's what we came up with and we came up with national flags before the rest of the world had them. And they all sort of said, 'Oh, in order to be a national flag you have to be rectangular' and Nepal said, 'No actually we're quite happy with our traditionally shaped flags.' Hindu flags are triangular. So is the Sikh khanda flag. Triangular flags are very culturally normal in that part of the world."
This Sikh flag, called the Nishan Sahib, is a another triangular flag from South Asia. It's made of cotton or silk cloth, with a tassel at its end. The word Nishan means symbol, and the flag is hoisted on a tall flagpole, outside most Gurdwaras, the place of worship for Sikhs.
"The flag is basically red, with a blue border. Red is Nepal's national color and it's said to come from the Rhododendron plant, which grows in the Himalayas. And blue is meant to represent peace. And on the top pennant you have the moon. And on the bottom pennant you have the sun." But what about the points of those two triangles off to the right? Could they be some sideways nod to the peaks of the Himalayas? Bartram says that's one explanation.
"There are many theories as to why there are two of them and what they represent and one is that they represent the Himalayas. But there are many ideas as to why there are two of them." One is that they represent Hinduism and Buddhism. Another is that they represent two families: the Shahs and the Ranas, who used to rule Nepal. Still another is that the two points represent peace with the moon and work with the sun.
The official government interpretation is that they represent Hinduism and Buddhism. In the United States, there's a very specific way to fold the American flag. In Nepal, it's not clear — but flag expert Graham Bartram thinks there's a good chance they do like the British do and just roll it up into a tube.
Kerry Gives Away Free Stick Flags with Bob Robbins from The Wolf
Posted on: June 12, 2015
Each year, Kerry spends Flag Day with Bob Robbins, she's done this for many years and every year her and Bob have a blast. Here she is with Bob and seated behind the table is‚ Milton Patton is an Arkansas country singer and a season 8 finalist on America‚s Got Talent‚ TV show.
Here is a bit more information about Flag Day: On June 14, 1777 the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution adopting the flag of the United States. On June 14, 1885 a 19-year-old teacher named Bernard J. Cigrand began his campaign to bring a national observance to the American flag. When he was 50, Flag Day was officially established by the Proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson on May 30, 1916.
It was not until August 3, 1949, that President Truman signed an Act of Congress designating June 14th of each year as National Flag Day. Flag Day is not a federal holiday.
We have been following this story for several months now and the Florida All American Flag Act has been signed into law by Gov. Rick Scott as of June 11, 2015. This requires all cities, counties and the state of Florida to purchase state and American flags made in the United States under a bill signed into law by Gov. Rick Scott. Scott signed the "All American Flag Act" and 47 other bills on Thursday.
Local government and state agencies will have to start following the flag mandate after Jan. 1.Information compiled by legislative staff showed the vast majority of flags bought in the state are already American-made.
The flag bill triggered a debate on the House floor. Some Republicans said they could not support the legislation because they said it was anti-competitive. But other lawmakers said that taxpayer money should not be spent on flags made in other countries like China. We at FlagandBanner.com tend to agree.
Our nations most recognized symbol the American Flag should always be made completely within the United States. You can purchase American Made flags at FlagandBanner.com and we also have American Made clothing and gift items available as well.
Juneteenth Celebration on 9th Street this Saturday, June 20
Posted on June 15, 2015
Little Rock, Ark., - On Saturday, June 20, 2015 Arkansas' FlagandBanner.com will join forces with the Mosiac Templars Cultural Center for their celebration‚ of Juneteenth. a holiday that commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in the U.S. state of Texas in June 1865, and more generally the emancipation of African-American slaves throughout the Confederate South.Celebrated on June 19, the term is a portmanteau of June and nineteenth, and is recognized as a state holiday or special day of observance in most states. Juneteenth is a time for reflection and forward thinking for people all across America.
A variety of entertainment is planned for this block party style celebration that has something for everyone. Attendees will find live music, children‚s activities, food trucks, non-profits, and vendor booths ranging from clothing to food. More than 1,200 people were in attendance last year with more than 50 participating vendors, performers and sponsors.
Arkansas‚ FlagandBanner.com will host two exhibits: The History of the Taborian Hall and the Dreamland Ballroom with the opportunity to enjoy tours of the ballroom. Construction began in 1916 and since then Taborian Hall has been an integral part of the Little Rock African American Culture ever since.
The Dreamland Ballroom on the third floor became a popular stop on the famous Chitlin‚ Circuit where musical greats such as Ray Charles, B.B. King, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington performed among others. It also has a strong military history as the building served as the USO for African American soldiers during World War II. Currently the Dreamland Ballroom is undergoing further restoration efforts. It is one of the last remaining original ballrooms in America.
The second exhibit is "Old School: Remembering the Brinkley Academy"‚ visitors will see how a school in rural eastern Arkansas served the needs of African American students who received direction and inspiration for nearly six decades through an exhibit of photographs. Exhibits open at 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Dreamland Ballroom tours are at 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. and are free to the public.
Please note that the ballroom is on the third floor.‚ Those wishing to tour it should be aware that there is no elevator. Currently the Friends of Dreamland Ballroom are raising funds to have an elevator installed for the disabled. If you would like to make a tax deductible contribution to the Friends of Dreamland Elevator Fund call 501.255.5700 or visit them online at www.dreamlandballroom.org. For more information on the Taborian Hall exhibits for the Juneteenth celebration contact Madison@flagandbanner.com.
"June 11, 2015, Kerry McCoy, owner and president of Arkansas' FlagandBanner.com visited with Melinda Mayo on Good Morning Arkansas and shared the new patriotic fashions available exclusively in Arkansas at our 800 West 9th Street showroom.
As retailers toss Confederate flag, producers‚ sales surging
Posted on June 24, 2015
By TOM MURPHY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
This article was published today at 3:45 a.m.
PHOTO BY AP / DANNY JOHNSTON
Kerry McCoy of Arkansas Flag and Banner in Little Rock said her company expects to sell about 50 Confederate battle flags in the next week, about half what they normally sell in a year.
Even as national retailers pull Confederate flags from shelves and websites after the shooting deaths of nine black church members in South Carolina, manufacturers that produce the divisive symbol said sales are surging.
"I don‚t sell the Confederate flag for any specific group; I just sell the flag," said Kerry McCoy, owner and president of Arkansas‚ FlagandBanner.com. "This is America. Everybody has a right to be represented, whether you are a history buff or a nut."
McCoy said her company expects to sell about 50 of the flags over the next week. That‚s about half of what it typically sells in a year.
Amazon, Sears, eBay and Etsy said Tuesday that they would remove Confederate flag merchandise from their websites. Sears does not sell the merchandise inside Sears or Kmart stores.
A wave of merchandise bans came a day after Wal-Mart Stores Inc. said it would remove all Confederate-themed items from its store shelves and website after the South Carolina shooting suspect, Dylann Storm Roof, appeared in photos holding the flag.
Other national retailers said they do not sell, or never have sold, Confederate items.
White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest, asked about the retailers pulling flags from stores, said those are decisions for individual businesses to make. He added that the businesses‚ decisions were consistent with the president‚s position.
We welcome those decisions, but obviously those are decisions that should be made by individual businesses.
The red, white and blue Confederate battle flag represents racial discrimination to many and Southern heritage to others. The debate over its place has become more heated since the church shootings. Republican South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley said Monday that the flag should be removed from the Statehouse grounds.
While Confederate flags represent a small slice of their business, those that produce them say they have no plans to stop.
Pete Van de Putte said sales of Confederate flags are surging at his Dixie Flag Manufacturing in San Antonio. He said he has sold more flags in the past couple of days than he typically would have sold over a couple of months.
"Anytime there is a controversy about any flag, we sell more flags." he said. "It's not like selling tires or washing machines. When people come in here, they're buying their national pride, their ethnic origin ‚¦ so people are naturally passionate about the product."
Both Van de Putte and McCoy said American flags are their most popular products.
McCoy said most of the Confederate flags she sells are lower-quality items not meant to fly outside every day. She said residents of California buy the most of any state.
"They're more for a dorm room or a gag gift." she said. "I don't know anybody that flies the Confederate battle flag on their flagpole outside their business. I mean, who would do that?"
Van de Putte‚s inventory also includes novelty flags and banners from the military and countries like North Korea. He estimates that nearly every flag in his store could be seen as objectionable by someone.
Likewise, McCoy said she frequently is pressured to stop making gay-pride flags or even flags that represent political parties.
"I'm not here to judge who does what with their flag. I‚m just here to provide for America." McCoy said.
Information for this article was contributed by Nancy Benac and Joseph Pisani of The Associated Press.
Print Headline: As retailers toss Confederate flag, producers‚ sales surging
Here is a link to all of the stories that Kerry McCoy, owner and president of Arkansas'FlagandBanner.comhas done in the last few days about the currentConfederate FlagControversy gripping America.
At Arkansas'Flag and Bannerin downtown Little Rock, PresidentKerry McCoysaid their best selling merchandise is red, white, and blue; even the Confederate merchandise. McCoy said the ones who buy Confederate merchandise range from historical buffs ...
“I don't sell the Confederateflagfor any specific group; I just sell theflag,” saidKerry McCoy, owner and president of Arkansas' FlagandBanner.com. “This is America. Everybody has a right to be represented, whether you are a history buff or a nut.” McCoy said ...
"Somebody in Rhode Island ordered in 50 Confederate (lapel) pins," saidKerry McCoy, owner ofFlag and Bannerin Little Rock, Arkansas. The order came in on Monday, when Gov. Nikki Haley of South Carolina called for the removal of the Confederateflag ...
Kerry McCoy, owner of ArkansasFlag and Bannerin Little Rock, Ark., describes the demand for Confederateflagmerchandise Tuesday, June 23, 2015. Major retailers are halting sales of the Confederateflagand related merchandise. (AP Photo/Danny ...
... themselves from the controversialbannerand national retailers pulled Confederateflags, manufacturers that produce the divisive symbol say sales are surging. “I don't sell the Confederateflagfor any specific group, I just sell theflag,” saidKerry McCoy, ...
Van de Putte's inventory also includes noveltyflags and bannersfrom the military and countries like North Korea. He estimates that nearly everyflagin his store could be seen as objectionable by someone. Likewise,McCoysaid she frequently gets pressure ...
Confederateflagthemed stickers are displayed at ArkansasFlag and Bannerin Little Rock, Ark., on Tuesday. Major retailers including Amazon, Sears, ... "I don't sell the Confederateflagfor any specific group, I just sell theflag," saidKerry McCoy, owner and president of Arkansas' FlagandBanner.com. "This is America. Everybody has a right to be represented whether you are a history buff or a nut." McCoy said her company expects to sell about 50 of theflagsover the next week. That's about half of what they typically ...
“I don't sell the Confederateflagfor any specific group, I just sell theflag,” saidKerry McCoy, owner and president of Arkansas' FlagandBanner.com. ... Van de Putte's inventory also includes noveltyflags and bannersfrom the military and other countries.
Theflagstyle is among the assortment of historicalbannersin stock, a category that includes the 13-star Betsy Rossflagand the “Don't Tread On Me” Gadsdenflagfrom the Revolutionary War era. The store also carriedflagsfrom different countries, sportsflagsand militarybanners. “Our policy is to be absolutely ... I just sell theflag,” saidKerry McCoy, owner and president of FlagandBanner.com. “This is America. Everybody has a right to be represented, whether you are a history buff or a nut.” Ms. McCoy said her ...
"I don't sell the Confederateflagfor any specific group, I just sell theflag," saidKerry McCoy, owner and president of Arkansas' FlagandBanner.com. "This is America. Everybody has a right to be represented whether you are a history buff or a nut." McCoy said her company expects to sell about 50 of theflagsover the next week. That's about half of what they typically ... Van de Putte's inventory also includes noveltyflags and bannersfrom the military and countries like North Korea. He estimates that nearly everyflagin ...
I just sell theflag," saidKerry McCoy, owner and president of Arkansas' FlagandBanner.com. "This is America. ... Van de Putte's inventory also includes noveltyflags and bannersfrom the military and countries like North Korea. He estimates that nearly every ...
... members in South Carolina, manufacturers that produce the divisive symbol say that sales are now surging. "I don't sell the Confederateflagfor any specific group, I just sell theflag," saidKerry McCoy, owner and president of Arkansas' FlagandBanner.com.
The alleged shooter in the attack, Dylann Roof (21) had posed for photographs with the secessionistbanner. Mrs Clinton ...Kerry McCoy, owner and president of Arkansas' FlagandBanner.com, told the Associated Press: "This is America. Everybody has a ...
Servos, who sellsflagsand manufactures custom-textiles like table cloths,bannersand tent canopies at his Fort Street store, said it's unfortunate some people “have adopted a historicalflagas an inappropriate symbol of racism.” “There are appropriate uses for every historicalflag,” he said. Even as retailers pull theflags, manufacturers that produce the divisive symbol say that sales are surging.Kerry McCoyof FlagandBanner.com, expects to sell 50 of theflagsthis week. That's about half of what they typically sell in ...
Online retailer eBay said it would no longer sell the rebelbannerthrough its website, as did Sears and Etsy. Amazon.com followed suit after purchases of theflagrocketed by more than 3,600% in just 24 hours. Walmart led the way on Monday saying it would ...
“I don't sell the Confederateflagfor any specific group, I just sell theflag,”Kerry McCoy, owner and president of Arkansas' FlagandBanner.com tells the AP's Tom Murphy. “This is America. Everybody has a right to be represented whether you are a history buff ...
At Arkansas'Flag and Bannerin downtown small Rock, PresidentKerry McCoysaid their best selling merchandise is red, white, and blue; even the Confederate merchandise. Some Republican presidential candidates struggled to find a middle ground, ...
Even if the Confederateflagstill flies Wednesday when mourners file past the coffin of state Sen. Van de Putte's inventory also includes noveltyflags and bannersfrom the military and countries like North Korea. Likewise,McCoysaid she frequently gets ...
Kerry's response to the NAACP on the Confederate Flag Controversy
Posted on June 26, 2015
Kerry's remarks in rebuttal to the NAACP:
Hello, I am Kerry McCoy
I want to thank the NAACP and Julius for coming out and exercising their First Amendment rights, just like I am. 40 years ago, I started my business on $400 and have lived the American dream. Today I continue to live that dream by selling flags and other patriotic items. Due to this morning‚s Supreme Court ruling, I feel sure the gay pride flag will take the forefront in our sales. Such is the flag business.
To say that I am supporting racism is incorrect. I have given back to my community and black history by restoring a 20th century historically significant African American building on 9th Street in Little Rock AR. At my expense, I have co-published a book with UALR (University of Arkansas at Little Rock) about its heritage, and through my efforts a 2 hour AETN documentary is soon to be released. Without me this piece of history would have been torn down 20 years ago.
Like all retailers I know not what is in the hearts of any of my customers when they buy from me. Are they going to burn the American flag or fly it.
Like everyone in America I am deeply disturbed by the South Carolina events. Let us focus on the bigger picture, race relations. Who taught this kid to hate and why did he get a gun.
Historic Taborian Hall: The Heart of Arkansas Flag and Banner
Posted on June 30, 2015
Building a successful business from the ground up is hard work, but spend an hour with Kerry McCoy, founder, owner and president of Arkansas Flag and Banner, and you will know that she has what it takes.
Kerry McCoy is a touch spunky, a touch crass and a touch energetic. With a whole lot of passion and a great business sense; McCoy has taken what began as a door-to-door sales business and built it into a multimillion-dollar company known around the country.
Arkansas Flag and Banner is not just a retailer of flags but is a full-service shop as well. They can create custom flags and banners and are also equipped to make repairs to your flags as needed. Arkansas Flag and Banner has some “big” customers like McDonald’s, Wal-Mart, and even Disney, yet they pride themselves on giving all customers five-star treatment. When you call Arkansas Flag and Banner, you will speak to a real person six days a week during business hours. When you purchase a flag, you will be contacted twice a year to ensure that your flag is in top-notch condition. If your flag needs repairs, they will arrange that for you. If the flag is beyond repair, they will properly retire the flag for you and provide you with a coupon toward the purchase of a new flag.
One of the most beautiful things about Arkansas Flag and Banner is the building in which it is located. The historic Taborian Hall (Temple) was built in 1916 and not only contains the showroom, employee offices, the shipping and receiving department and the sewing room, but also has a rich history hidden within itself. Read More at Only in Arkansas.
Historic Dreamland Ballroom to Host Dance Competition Fundraiser Nov. 6th
Posted on August 11, 2015
Little Rock, Ark., (PRWEB) August 11, 2015
On November 6th, the Dreamland Ballroom will host its 6th Annual Dancing into Dreamland dance competition and fundraiser. The annual fundraiser is to generate funds for improvements and renovations to the historic 99-year-old building located at 800 West Ninth Street.
The current fundraising campaign (carried over from last year) is to raise funds to make Taborian Hall accessible to all by installing an elevator which would be ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant.
The non-profit group, The Friends of Dreamland needs more than $700,000 to achieve their goal to have an addition and elevator added to the almost century old historic site.
This year's fundraiser will begin at 7 pm and last until 10 pm. Celebrity judges will choose the overall winner of the dance competition while guests will vote for their favorite dancers to receive the People‚s Choice Award by text voting. A silent auction with more than $20,000 in auction items will be up for grabs during the event. Guests will enjoy hors d'oeuvres along with drinks and an hour long free dance will be open for any and all guests to cut a rug. Dreamland Ballroom is housed on the third floor of Taborian Hall built in 1916.
The building is on the National Register of Historic Places and hosted such musical legends as Etta James, Ella Fitzgerald, Cab Calloway, Duke Ellington, Ray Charles, Louis Armstrong. Louis Jordan, Redd Foxx and a host of other legendary artists throughout the years.
In the 1970s through the 1980s the building fell into disrepair and was rescued in 1991 by Arkansas‚ FlagandBanner.com‚s owner Kerry McCoy. The Friends of Dreamland non-profit was formed in 2009 and has been working to save and restore this piece of Little Rock‚s cultural history ever since. The Friends of Dreamland invite the public to attend; general admission tickets are available for $69 each or guests can purchase the private balcony or one of two box seating areas or entire tables right on the dance floor. Guests can order tickets online at http://www.dreamlandballroom.com/did2015.html.
Sponsorship opportunities are available as well. Contact the Friends of Dreamland at 501.255.5700 to learn more about sponsorship opportunities. Dress in party attire the night of the event. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Friday, November 6 at 800 West 9th Street, Little Rock, Ark. Entrances are on the State Street side of the building. The Friends of Dreamland is a 501(c)(3) corporation. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Visit http://www.dreamlandballroom.org or call 501.255.5700 for details.
Confederate Flag Controversy Increases Sales by 50% and Opens 2 New Jobs
Posted on August 18, 2015
The recent ballyhoo of the Confederate battle flag has sparked increased sales at Arkansas‚ FlagandBanner.com from not just the south, but all across the country and even Canada. The day WalMart and Amazon discontinued the sale of confederate flags, my internet business exploded with orders from all across the country.
AFB owner Kerry McCoy said. "WalMart discontinued the sale of Confederate flag merchandise on June 23, 2015 and was soon followed by Amazon, Sears, eBay and other online retailers. This action prompted major flag manufacturing companies such as Annin Flags to discontinue the distribution of Confederate products. This left smaller retailers scrambling to fill consumer demands. To date, Arkansas' FlagandBanner.com has seen a 50% increase in sales in June and July and a 63% increase in new customers."
This increase in business has resulted in the creation of two new job positions within the company, which is a 10% job creation growth to a 22 person small business. AFB sees the interest in confederate flags waning, but believes patriotism from its customers will remain high in the consumption of other patriotic and historical products.
To date, AFB has filled most Confederate merchandise backorders and expects to have all completed by month‚s end. When asked about the selling of the confederate battle flag, McCoy said, "I am not in the business of censorship for any segment of Americans. You can buy any historical flag, a gay pride flag, a Native American flag, a religious flag, a democrat and/or a republican flag from me. I represent ALL Americans. The innate right to freedom of speech is one of the things that makes our country great."
Kerry McCoy is founder and president of‚ FlagandBanner.comand publisher of‚ Brave Magazine. Kerry has been in the flag business for more than 40 years. If you would like Kerry for an interview or to speak at your event, please contact tammie@flagandbanner.com‚ with details.‚
Visit us in store or online for the latest in Razorback tailgating needs. Everything from table wares to rugs, blankets, flags, banners, pennants, games and toys to keep the kids occupied. We've got it all and you won't find some of our unique products anywhere‚ else!"
Each year, Kerry spends Flag Day with Bob Robbins, she's done this for many years and every year her and Bob have a blast. Here she is with Bob and seated behind the table is‚ Milton Patton is an Arkansas country singer and a season 8 finalist on America‚s Got Talent‚ TV show.
