|
Monday, June 30, 2008
In one of the offices I've been to, I found a grouping of different miniature flags proudly displayed at the back of the executive table. What struck my attention is almost fifty of these flags are mounted on a single base, giving the impression that one is collecting mini-flags. But before I can ask, the secretary informed me that every time there is a special event, mini-flag souvenirs are given as memento. The mini-flags are specially made, strong and durable it will be a waste if we just discard it away. Thus, to preserve the memories of these occasions all mini-flags are devised to add new dimension to the office decor. Well, our need for mini-flags have reached uncalled for proportions, because in practically all product launches this small rectangular or triangular flags are always needed. No, wonder that when you attend trade fairs, it is always that your have several of these mini flags as memento. Since these flags are really colorful and striking, their presence in your office or homes will add to the overall aesthetic appeal. Once inside an office, you will directly know what the occupant's inclination is. If he is a sports enthusiasts, then his office will be filled we mini golf flags, or maybe NBA or NFL mini-flags. Or if his passion is traveling, then it will show the display of different mini-flags courtesy from the vacations spots that he had been to. What about you, have you had your share of mini-flags? Keep a few and mount it on a special stand and display the memento of the most memorable day in your life.
by: The Flagman
It took me some time to ponder because after so many occasions I've been into (wedding receptions, birthdays, children's christening, Christmas parties and the like), the usual giveaways are distributed to guests. But in a few that I'd say memorable is when miniature flags are given as souvenir for the event instead of balloons during birthdays perhaps or cigar when a baby boy is born. It practically caught me off-guard because I was born into a family that treasure our rich traditions. Is this the new system of remembering a milestone in a man's life? As our world matures, so thus tradition, it changes although only subtly. Remember the days when it brought us a lot of joy seeing miniature American flags during our Independence Day celebrations it was not confined only to this special day. When the President comes for his usual visit, miniature flags were aplenty waved by almost everybody within considerable distance from the President. Then to make a foreign head of state's visit really in tune with the times, the entourage is welcomed by hundreds of country miniature flags waved by enthusiastic supporters that line the street. Well we have finally equated the important events in our country with these mini-flags. For example, to show our support for our favorite NBA team we take pains to buy one and wave it during actual games. Our business corporations have joined the bandwagon as well and every time they launch a new product, it is never without these mini-flags. It is as if their business success is dependent upon these mini-flags, although many would admit that it has become a very effective advertising medium. At our time and age, nothing is really impossible.
by: The Flagman
Sunday, June 29, 2008
I had a friend once who was a migrant student from the Philippines but is 100% Chinese, since both of his parents came from the mainland. One time I saw him about to leave for a family gathering, because he reasoned out that it becomes a commitment to join the fraternity of the Wang's family. I dismissed the idea solely because I thought it was just a reunion of close members of the family. Who would have believed that the reunion invites a third of Chinatown, since almost everybody are inter-related. Even in the United States their family membership is already awesome, much more if the reunion was held in China where each family could number about 8 to 10 million members. So, judging from the numbers, each clan must have a symbol to stand for and this is best exemplified by the family crest flags which had been handed down to them by their forefathers. Whether you are a true bloodied Englishman, a fine Frenchman or a suave Italian, your family lineage had a crest flag that your ancestors stood and fought for. And if you are really patriotic like some Spaniards I know who would try to make ends meet and celebrate family traditions, then your houses and offices will be dotted with family crest flags to announce to everybody the saga of your family and your country's culture and beliefs. We at NorthStar Flags and Poles, understood the true worth of these flags and we find ways to duplicate the original, particularly the color and graphic design. For after all this is a relic of the past and must be handled delicately.
by: The Flagman
Civilizations started as distinct groupings of clans or family related individuals. Then as each clan grew because of inter-marriage and migration from different tribes, each member becomes an integral part of a clan. Now, to distinguish one from the other, a set of identifying symbol has to be maintained. And as this practice continues to be popular it was adapted by almost everybody. So, from the royal family, to the knights of Europe and even to the lowly citizens, had engaged their tribal artists to develop family crest flags . Thus in the event of war, each family is obliged to send a handful of soldiers, of course carrying their family insignia. This is also mentioned in the historical development of Japan, where areas had been subdivided among warlords. As neighboring warlords engaged in attacks against each other due to agricultural gains, each family had to arm itself from aggression, thus the Samurai class was born. So in the event of foreign invasion, each family sends his Samurai to defend the country against the invading forces. This type of governing a feudal system is also practiced much of Asia, including the vast China mainland. These family symbols were considered to be almost sacred, particularly those crest flags that were designed for families that existed during the ancient times of maybe long before the French Revolution. They continued the family tradition and up to the present these flags are still reproduced or made by the recent members of the family. You can call them sentimental but the truth is, they are just really proud of their ancestors and family traditions.
by: The Flagman
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Try to visit as many offices as possible and the chance of finding a lot of American flags as interior ornaments would really be high. Yes, this may sound odd but flags as interior decor has become an important highlight to offices, conference rooms and even the reception area. Most offices looks drab with only a glass wall that separates it from the outside and it is shielded by varying types of venetian blinds, but once a flag is placed at a strategic corner the whole ambience of the room changes. It suggests patriotic involvement, of added dimension to dignity and a feeling of hope and equality. This is a factual observation, in fact most designers include the flag in their composition simply because it makes a lot of sense and appeal to clients. Thus from a standpoint of a business professional, this is already a plus factor in addition to his savvy, intellect and personal appeal. It more or less completes the scenario of a thriving and successful business enterprise. For the Chinese, this is a perfect demonstration of the effects of "yin and yang energy" as arranged by their "feng shui experts". It is on this particular observation that we at NorthStar Flags and Poles had tried to fill the gap on an accessory that will solve the problem of how the flags should be mounted. We have designed a floor stand specifically for the flagpole and flag assembly. One call from us and we shall be at your service, showing you the ease and wisdom of our manufactured flag accessory. Try us!
by: The Flagman
Many were in the opinion that the American's attachment to the National flag would wane once the baby boomers generation had retired from active involvement in politics, in business and maybe government service. They would simply spend their retirement in some of the sunny beaches in Florida or Hawaii. But contrary to expected trends, the passion for the flag still runs high with the new generation. At a time of the speed Internet, of HDTV, of iPods and other electronic gadgets, the flag has continued its rise as a symbol of the American dream. Flags used to be an important element of buildings and residences; in fact some are exposed to the weather indefinitely and with proper lighting gadgets to illuminate it at night. Nowadays, flags were no longer confined outside but also as an important object inside buildings, offices, living rooms and even the bedroom. I asked some businessmen on the relevance of the flag inside their offices, and their obvious answer is it helps in exploratory talks, in business deals and even employee relations, it seems it has an eye on how things are. Due to the need of an office to have a patriotic feel, we at NorthStar Flags and Poles have particularly designed a floor stand for the indoor flag set . This is usually of metal (bronze or steel) and polished where one can easily insert his flagpole and flag assembly. So, once an occupant wants his flag moved to a new area, he can simply transfer the floor stand, or if he resigns and get out of the office then he can bring it with him in preparation for his next assignment. Call or visit us for a demonstration, or better yet browse our website for added information.
by: The Flagman
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
For minor advertising exposure, particularly if you are opening up a new McDonalds branch or perhaps an expansion of the Starbucks coffee nearby, you have the free use of the street poles. You don't have to use the print media because people seldom open the newspapers anyway much more the ad section. The local TV station will not be advisable because the cost per 30 second ad is so restrictive; the other option being the Internet but finding your website would be a nightmare if you don't rank well with the search engines. Nothing really beats the street pole banners . With a vivid imagination and innate instinct and ingenuity you can put up your banners to be really coy with the neighborhood. Use striking color combinations accompanied with properly written and inspiring message, people would naturally be receptive to the ad. Always remember that banners strike onlookers because of its instant recall slogans, so if he needs to eat or maybe enjoy a cup of coffee then he will remember an outlet exists nearby. Street pole banners have tremendously helped a lot of striving entrepreneurs. With such exposure they have gained a lot of clients, particularly those on a local or neighborhood scale. In so doing it has raised their business considerably, it has helped ease the unemployment line and contributed to the overall economic outlook of the locality. They have not only satisfied the local diners need but also the neighborhood as well. So, if opening up a store interests you, then your next move must be to hire a reliable flag manufacturer to meet your advertising requirement and be on your way to a fresh new start with the added vigor and confidence.
by: The Flagman
Why are the accessories used for praise banners different from the rest? First and foremost is where are praise banners mounted? Obviously praise banners are seen only in churches, places of worship or practically in holy places. So, why not make them extra special, after all you are doing it for the service of the Lord. That is why since the inception of praise banners in our midst this has been meticulously designed and ornately modeled relevant to our doctrines and involvement to the faith. This practice of total adoration to the most holy place in the church could be traced to the biblical methodology. It started when the Lord freed the Jews after centuries of bondage and together with Moses traveled the desert for forty years before they entered Canaan - the land of promise. Also the Lord ordered that a tent be made to house the "ark of the covenant" a holy place designed with the best and most beautiful trappings that the people could make and only those allowed by God could enter the most holy sanctuary. It is on this premise that only the finest of the finest would be allowed inside the holy places. This mind set has dictated our actions towards our faith, no wonder that even in our design of the accessories for praise banners follow the same visual incantation. Before a praise banner could be hanged inside the church, it has to be blessed because everything inside must be holy. And once inside the church the ambience is all too consuming as we meditate and pray, ask for the Lords blessings and forgiveness amidst the presence of praise banners that visually add to the sanctity of the place. Please do come to us, NorthStar Flags and Poles for your praise banner accessories because we can be your partner in this sacred endeavor.
by: The Flagman
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
America is a sports crazy nation, proofs are the thousands of spectators who flock to ballparks during baseball games or gymnasiums during basketball games. And they are not just there to witness the games but show all emotions in support of their favorite ball clubs. Out of this passion for sports came out idols and sports heroes that each try to emulate and even try out products that they themselves endorse. Thus, being a sports icon is indeed big business since they are not only handsomely paid, companies also try to outdo competitors to get their endorsement. A typical example of this is the ongoing playoff series between the Boston Celtics and the lowly Atlanta Hawks. This is a seven game series and the first two games have been blowouts in favor of the Celtics. But when the games shifted to Atlanta, the series turned a different color because the Hawks turned the tables on the Celtics and evened the series. What may have influenced the game and altered the player's rhythm? The obvious answer is of course the home crowd. Residents of Atlanta attended the games armed with handy miniature flags that they passionately wave in support of the Hawks. So, if you are the player and playing with a boisterously cheering home crowd, you develop an intensity that becomes a plus factor that won games. And to think that the Hawks almost did not make it to the playoffs, because of their poor performance the entire season is really a point to ponder at. What happens next is a thing to watch, because the miniature flag waving residents of Atlanta would always be around to support their home team. Who knows, a David might again slay a Goliath.
by: The Flagman
Monday, June 23, 2008
It is the primary duty of every American to show respect, follow correct etiquette, and indulgently know the symbolism attached to the flag . That's why our patriotic brothers erect flagpoles in their residences and had it illuminated, so it could be displayed 24 hours a day. A flagpole could not be effective if you only use a single light assembly, and in most instances a series of these lights would be needed to achieve balanced illumination. With this in mind, maintaining proper illumination would really be expensive. Good if you have the means, then this will not be a problem. Some owners resort to using the CFL (compact fluorescent lamps) to cut on energy cost and reduce their carbon footprints as well. At a time when oil is traded at over 100 dollars a barrel, energy cost would also skyrocket, making even the gesture of being patriotic an overly painful undertaking. However, there are some companies like NorthStar Flags and Poles that offer clients the wonders of solar energy. That is with sunlight during the day, the photovoltaic cells of the solar panels charges the storage battery, so that once the sun is out the electrical energy stored would be enough to illuminate your flagpole. This process is repeated all over again, day in and day out and you don't spend a single cent on your energy bill. This is really encouraging, but the initial cost would be high and with the considerable savings, of course the investment would be worth it.
by: The Flagman
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Do we have a statute that dictates our preference on the use of the American flag? Yes, we have a U.S Code that limits our display of the national flag only from sunrise to sunset, whether it is in public buildings or residential houses. However this limitation is waived if owners can properly illuminate the flag and pole at night. Lets take it, some of us are patriotic and we would like our flags to be on the pole 24 hours a day, and in order to avoid the ban we have to provide lighting so the national symbol is visible even at night. Owing to this provision, flagpole owners use different types of lighting implements. Most equipment used are rated only 12 volts, the same voltage that we use in our cars. Some come in ready install-it-yourself types with manuals and accompanying transformers. Why do we use 12 volts? The obvious reason is safety, because if somebody trips on your installation then there is no danger of electrocution. This type of lighting for flagpoles equipment offers limited illumination, so some hire the services of professionals to design and supervise their lighting installation. In most flagpole lighting, a 120v supply is delivered to the lamps, but proper installation measures must be followed to reduce the risk of electric shock. And to avoid injury, most lamps are designed with an all weather metal or die-cast aluminum enclosure. This usually is painted black or shiny aluminum and the bulb inside could be incandescent, halogen, sodium or mercury vapor lamp, metal halide, and they are usually provided with a rotary switch to control the degree of illumination of the flagpole. More sophisticated installations include a photo switch that is automatically activated once the sun is out. So, even if you are not around illumination of your flagpole is assured, and when you come home late, your flagpole will be lighted.
by: The Flagman
Thursday, June 19, 2008
We Americans continue to patronize the two-party system, as has been the practice of our forefathers. The idea is that the winning candidate must get at least 50% plus one of the total votes cast. This way we can say that the victorious candidate is a majority winner. Unlike in other countries where the multi-party system is allowed, if the winning candidate has not garnered the required majority vote, a new run-off election must be held between the top two candidates. In this process a majority winner will be assured. In our case, we have the Republicans and the Democrats, two parties that has varying sets of ideologies. Voters will just have to select which candidate can deliver more and be the best to run the country or the state. In the past campaign sorties of candidates are so simple that not a semblance of election is in the air. Abraham Lincoln for example, made all his campaign thrust at the back of the railroad train and speeches were short and few, particularly only at train stations. Today however times has changed, even prior to the convention proper an election primary is held to get the pulse of the people. The venue of these primaries has become sophisticated as well with the addition of political party flags patterned after the national tricolor. So, when you enter these sites, expect the atmosphere to be really festive, not only with political party flags but also banners carried by each delegate. This heralds the start of the campaign season, as each political party devise ways to keep their venues patriotic in appeal. Have you already made your choice?
by: The Flagman
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
I read an article about the American forces exploits in the Asia-Pacific theater during World War II. The setting started with the horrible attack on Pearl Harbor that severely damaged the military installations, particularly those with flying American flags . This also prompted the Americans to join the World War to redeem its lost voice in the family of nations - the allied forces. It took yet several years before the Americans took counter offensive measures against the invading adversary. With a complete armada of war armaments, General Douglas McArthur took the cudgels of the Americans to free the occupied territories from enemy control. Thereby fulfilling his promise "I shall return" to the millions of ravaged inhabitants. When a radio broadcast was aired that the American Armada defeated the enemies naval might at the Battle at Leyte Gulf, thousands of inhabitants flock to the shore to get a glimpse of the American Flag proudly flying at the masts of American warships. And when the Americans landed at Leyte, the local folks cheered and hug the conquering heroes that at least war atrocities would now be a thing of the past. Yes, the mere presence of the American flag has brought joy to millions of inhabitants in Asia, a symbol for a peace loving populace. Its tricolor has restored freedom to the countless millions who braved enemy lines to fight for what is right even with the scarce supplies. And today decades after the last World War a lot of our Asian brothers still look in awe at the American flag and what it symbolizes. It still is the guardian of our human rights and a fountain of equal opportunities for everybody. How do you visualize our flag?
by: The Flagman
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
It used to be that vehicles of foreign diplomats and ambassadors sport car flags, the reason of course is to differentiate them from local car owners or maybe be given some preferential treatment. And normally, each car is provided with a custom flag a smaller version of their country's flag. This is very notable when you are approaching the United Nations Headquarters in New York, particularly during sessions as each delegate maneuver through traffic to reach his destination on time. When foreign Heads of State comes in for a visit, car flags are also prevalent since all cars that join the entourage are provided with one. So when moving in traffic the entourage becomes really a sight as the head car and security escorts collectively snakes through as if in a sea of car flags. Likewise expatriates that line the streets wave similar banners to welcome their President or probably their Prime Minister. In a way this incident may have started our penchant for car flags , because we not only use these symbols during Independence Day celebrations also but throughout the year. Aside from the American car flags, we use other specimens such as replicas of school flags, favorite teams in the NBA, the NFL and almost any other sports oriented organizations. And when the season for such sports activities are over, we use our company's flag and some resort to blank flags of varying colors, just to satisfy our need for a car ornament. What about you, what car flag are you using? Or if you still do not have one, buy and join the bandwagon.
by: The Flagman
Monday, June 16, 2008
Our passion for flags is evident within our midst and we never forget all the important events in our lives, whether such falls within the varying seasons. This social practice had been with us for centuries and is symbolically represented by the seasonal flags we see around. Some signifies the approach of the Christmas season others show the subdued atmosphere of autumn still others profess the freshness of spring or new birth. We reflect immense joy by displaying relevant seasonal flags . For example, when a couple had a new born child the father would normally prefer to display a baby flag with a caption "it's a boy" or maybe "it's a girl" to inform everybody of the good news. And when the child turns a leaf, expect happy birthday flags to dominate the special occasion. During wedding anniversaries, aside from a romantic dinner for two, anniversary flags also are to be displayed to render it more intimate. Even schools and universities use flags to inform students that it is back to school once again. For our Jewish brothers, they have their "Hanukkah festival" (Festival of Lights) an eight-day festival that commemorates the rededication of the second God's Temple in Jerusalem. This usually happens in November up to late December that also coincides with the Christians Christmas Holiday Season. These special events connote merrymaking and these are ably represented by gift giving and a throng of seasonal flags to mark the occasion. In whatever special occasion we have, it is always the seasonal flags that make the celebration festive. And to make your celebration complete, order your flags from us - NorthStar Flags and Pole, for we can do justice to your custom flag requirements.
by: The Flagman
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Do you know that the making of the Christian flag is not a pre-conceived notion? Would you believe that it could be divine intervention that inspired the flag? Questions, questions, questions, but one thing is certain, the flag was born simply because an invited speaker failed to appear and speak at the congregation. Naturally, if you were in the place of the minister in charge you would feel devastated, after weeks of preparation word came that your esteemed speaker cannot make it. As if your world crumbled and you must try something, and tried he did. The occasion could just have been a normal Sunday school rally in a Coney Island Chapel in 1897, but as faith would have it, it never happened. So, the superintendent Charles Overton was distraught and was at the pew looking at the American flag across the pulpit when suddenly he was able to visualize clearly the symbolism attached to the flag. Instant inspiration and why not, a Christian flag that will represent all the Christian faith of all denomination, thus the flag was born. From a bleary start in 1897, the flag have been in use by over 244,000 churches across the world displayed in church walls, hanged in ceilings and in classroom. This flag has become the universal symbol of all Protestant denominations. So, for over 100 years the original design of the flag had remained unchanged. How does it look? The design was really simple but elegant, with a white background that suggests purity, innocence and faith; and a red cross emblazoned across it that stands for the Christian faith and God's love for mankind and the promise of eternal life. The blue background of the cross, symbolizes Christ's faithfulness that led to his death.
by: The Flagman
Saturday, June 14, 2008
A flag will not be effective if it does not sway in a flagpole, much less a flagpole would not also be efficient without its accessories. This is practically the same with women who feels bare without their make-up on or officers of the law who feels insecure and defenseless without their side arms. So, the saying that "it takes two to tango" is really correct and appropriate to various situations. Take the flagpole for instance, when wood was prevalent the top of the pole used to be simple but thru the years a finial was added to give due importance to the look. It started with a triangular shape much like the tip of an arrow but it tends to damage the flag, so it evolved into different types of flagpole ball ornaments and some even crafted a flying eagle and other sophisticated designs to complete the whole arrangement. As technology improves, so does flag accessories. Instead of purely relying on wood for poles, manufacturers developed fiberglass that is so many times sturdier and more flexible than wood. But it has only limited applications, so a much lighter aluminum pole was devised and for really stable and taller poles galvanized steel sections are used. Most flags are exposed to the elements for longer period of time therefore they must be durable and as much as possible the accessories must also be designed to last a lifetime, since it will be doubly hard to dismantle a flagpole and change whatever part malfunctioned. If you desire a flagpole in your homes or offices, see to it that you buy from a reliable manufacturer, just like NorthStar Flag and Poles who is touted as the best in the industry.
by: The Flagman
Thursday, June 12, 2008
The Greeks and the Romans may have taught us the rudiments of civilization, but it was the Spaniards who cultivated our culture through centuries of domination, conquests, colonization and fine tastes, whether on food, clothes and even behavior. Proofs of these influences are glaringly visible in the whole of Latin America, the Caribbean, some parts of Southeast Asia and even the United States. In our case, such is more pronounced in Florida, California, some parts of Texas and New Mexico being an across the border neighbor of Mexico. The Spanish settlements that we have, had thrived through centuries of Americanization, and is in fact getting a fair share of our cultural development. These concentration of Spanish settlements continues to be unique, in a sense because they still prefer to converse in their native tongue although the majority are already proficient in English. They may have embraced the American culture but they still practice their Spanish traditions brought about by culture handed to them through the years. Take the case of Spanish owned shops and dining facilities that uses Spanish flags not only to adorn the establishment but also to inform guests that you are now entering a different cultural setting. As you enter, the flag with the word "bienvenidos" or welcome greets visitors, and if you're a migrant you would like to see the flag that says "se habla espanol" or we speak Spanish in English. Though only a flag, such words mean a lot because it just imply you are among brothers and it connotes a time to reminisce of drinking coffee during siestas, of fiestas and senoritas back home. So, should you be in Spanish settlements, try to remember words like "abierto" or open, "gran apertura" or grand opening and maybe if you enjoy shopping try "venta" or sale.
by: The Flagman
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Most airports, particularly those handling thousands of incoming and departing passengers daily are so huge and complicated that maintenance services find it hard to accomplish the job they are required to do. This is true if they are handling repair works that crosses paths with passengers and airport personnel. They could not also condone the affected area because it will naturally hamper airport operations. In cases where interior building maintenance works could not be avoided, crews are required to put danger flags to entice personnel and passengers to refrain from coming within the affected area. These are mostly minor repairs made on the ceiling, maybe on some damaged floor tiles, or maybe repainting of a faded wall, or probably change some busted bulbs. But, when major repairs is required, then the portion had to be closed to all, for it might endanger the lives of so many. No amount of danger flags would be sufficient to ward off personnel and prevent accidents. It is only easier when maintenance works are solely confined to the terminal grounds or maybe parts of the runway and taxiway where they could not encroach into the terminal building routine. But, even then they still must have some form of danger signs to warn those within their work area to be really extra careful or maybe suffer the consequences. In most cases when work is outside the terminal building, warning airport flags are used, these are orange-checkered flags devised for extra visibility. So, next time on your trip try to be cautious and look attentively for signs, they maybe airport and danger signs that maintenance crews purposely posted for your safety.
by: The Flagman
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Do you know that the United States Army had two sets of official flags? Though both flags are only displayed indoors, it could also be classified as the official emblem during parades and special celebrations. At the onset the Army flag had been created white with a yellow fringe all around and with the insignia of the army - a trophy of armor, weapons and flags which was a replica of the seal of the Department of Army and the color is in ultramarine blue. On the upper part of the flag is the Army motto "This we'll defend" and below the insignia is a red scroll with the "United States Army" written across it in white. And also the official birth of the Army in 1775 is added beneath the scroll in blue tint. So, during special events the flag is carried together with the National Color and a bunch Army campaign streamers that commemorate all official involvement of the department - from its inception, to the first World War, to the Persian Gulf and recently Iraq and Afghanistan. Can you imagine how many campaigns the United States Army had been involved so far? From its birth to the present, it's countless and to think that each campaign is all represented by commemorative flags of varying colors. Then a complete set of these official flags would cost so much, considering that each campaign streamer have the insignia embroidered. To make matters as simple as possible, the United States Army had to revise their flag preference. They still aped the original design but the color combination had been changed, the new flag is now in ultramarine blue and the insignia in white but still with the yellow fringe and campaign streamers are no longer authorized.
by: The Flagman
From our standpoint, what is the sole responsibility of the coast guard? First of all, of the different United States Armed Services it is only the coast guard that is embodied with law enforcement activities. They are the guardians of our territorial waters, and as such they assist in the enforcement of federal laws covering the high seas and they are therefore authorized to make arrests for all offenses made against the United States. They are fully armed, and can board, examine, search and seize any vessels that violate the provisions of the federal laws. Our coast guards are visible in the seas making arrests of illegal immigrants, of boarding vessels that are suspected to be drug carriers, or other nefarious activities such as gunrunning and allied crimes. They bring fear to criminals using our waterways because of the Coast Guard Flags that are visibly displayed on their cutters. Do you have any idea why our coast guards uses two sets of flags? The reason of course is they use one for their vessels or cutters and all shore units, which is the Coast Guard Ensign, while the other one is the Standard Coast Guard Flag used during special events and ceremonies. The Standard flag represents the Coast Guard while the Ensign Flag is flown to enforce existing federal laws. So, if you are on your yacht in the high seas and the coast cutter approaches, then it only means that they are only after your welfare - that you are safe. On the other hand if you are dealing with contraband merchandise, the visible coast guard ensign flag should bring chilling sensations, because finally the law has caught up with you.
by: The Flagman
Monday, June 9, 2008
Our National Elections is due in November, yet today the two rival political parties - the Democrats and Republicans are already tight in the race to who would be the eventual standard and official bet of the parties. These are shown by the results of state primaries and caucuses among party members to get the consensus of everybody to seat their bet in the White House. And amidst all of this brouhaha over the selection process, venues are bedecked by hundreds of political parties flags that gave an air of festivity to the affair. The Democrats for the moment are still undecided as to their official candidate, as both protagonists are pushing for the number of mandated delegate count in the coming convention. And as things stand, one probable candidate has a slight edge but may not be able to corner the required number of delegates - and this could even end up in a stalemate where a dark horse might be pitted against the other party bet. The Republicans on the other hand has made known their choice as early as January and are already up in preparations for the coming elections, making sufficient headway against the other party bet. The coming Republican Convention will just be a gathering of party members to officially endorse their candidate. For several years this has been the process that we Americans commit to preserve democracy - by electing a leader through a sometime tedious effort but a fair exercise of the tenets of the Constitution. So, between now and Election Day political party flags will most certainly dominate the landscape as candidates campaign, for the White House and a place in history.
by: The Flagman
Sunday, June 8, 2008
When your business is selling or buying, whether real estate properties, things or materials you always advertise. Business would fail if people are not aware that such exist. Why do you think chicken eggs sell more than duck eggs considering that both are at par in taste and nutritional values, the obvious answer is hen's advertise right after they lay their eggs announcing that it is there for the picking. Kidding aside, most would seek the help of the print media, the newspaper ad section which could not even be noticed by the reader or they use the TV's which is found effective but is awfully expensive. So, to simplify matters and reduce advertising costs, business owners would resort to message flags to put their intent across. As these are aptly posted on street poles, vacant spaces or blank walls, these reach consumers in a more personal way. This form of advertising is really effective and direct, particularly if you are engaged in special products, the used car or appliances business, or maybe a garage sale if you are moving out of town. And this will guarantee fast turnover of stocks, reduced inventories and profits. These flags are designed to be really attractive with very distinct color choices and placed either horizontally or vertically, in order to get the viewer's attention and interests. Naturally when your products are worth seeing, interested buyers would flock to your store consummating a sale. Always maintain your edge, advertise using these message flags to raise consumer awareness and increase your sales. Come to NorthStag Flags and Poles, so they can help provide the most striking flags for your business. Visit us now!
by: The Flagman
Saturday, June 7, 2008
The National Football League is the mother of all professional sports in the United States. The facts can attest to that, being the biggest in arena attendance, the most viewed sports on TV's and the most anticipated finals appearance between two professional ball clubs. So, for a span of over two weeks all eyes are glued to the team's performance and culminating only in the finals – the super bowl. It looks like a holiday in the United States during this time as American's make the atmosphere festive with the different NFL flags on display and waved during actual games in support of their favorite teams. The NFL Super Bowl is so huge that like the Olympics, cities and counties in the United States vie for the hosting of the annual Super Bowl. This is for good measure because a lot of local tourists would naturally be around to witness the festivities. And when translated to revenues it would bring, this would be enough to prime up the local economy of the host city. In the recently concluded Super Bowl, the host was Glendale in Arizona. From sketchy reports, the Super Bowl generated revenues of over 500 million dollars for the coffers of the local government. This has been mostly acquired through the arrival of over 15,000 guests across the country, and each visitor staying at least three days at local hotels, dining at favorite hangouts and spending a lot on drinks. Although the New York Giants won over the New England Patriots, an upset despite the predictions of well-meaning sportswriters, it somehow fueled the appetite of the next host because of its phenomenal success.
by: The Flagman
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Hotel flags Comforts weary travelers Why do hotels need a flag in the first place? As far as we know, there is no definite answer, but it could have evolved through generations of the hotels existence. Or somebody may just have thought of putting one and others simply followed to the point that it later became the standard of the industry. Nobody can deny the fact that the presence of the hotel flag adds some form of mystical effect to the structure and when placed in proper sequence it gives an overall appearance of festivity. Initially straight from the onset, hotel companies design logos for their stationeries and official documents, then gradually when they start out advertising campaigns these are all printed as emblems in flags to promote the diverse services offered. And during trade fairs and tourism forums they print flags to compete with other hotel companies for space and recognition. So whether you belong to the established hotel chains like Hotel Marriot, the Holiday Inns or the Hilton hotels, you always advertise so tourists will instantly recall once they are within your area. Some hotels had their presence felt once travelers alight from their planes because they have flags that adorn the connecting boulevard from the airport, as shown on street poles, or aptly erected on strategic open spaces and probably on buildings blank walls. This is true, hotels spend a lot for its advertising campaigns to promote the services and amenities available so that future tourists will remember where to book in case they are within the vicinity. So, after a long road trip or maybe extended flights, when weary tourists see the hotel flags even at a distance, they can already feel relief because it means comfort and really superb dining facilities. What hotel gives you the most discriminating experience? Do you think you can also recall the flags that kept you company on these memorable journeys?
by: The Flagman
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
The game of golf had become the most sought after sports in the world. Business deals are no longer sealed in hotels and resorts but are always consummated after a round of golf. Due to the popularity of the game, well-known players get more fees from product endorsements, rather than winning the actual tournament. A golf tournament is covered by live TV, so it becomes doubly important that product being endorsed are also visible to the viewing public. In this regard, event organizers require companies to provide golf flags not only for the purpose intended, but as ornaments that enliven the golf courses. So, flags are used to mark the different holes, 18 for an 18hole golf course, and also flags that remind players of the hazards approaching, like bunkers, sand traps and water. In the absence of these flags, golf courses tend to be really monotonous, what with only green foliage and trees around, but with multi-colored flags it adds up to the festive environment. Recently though, golf has become a spectators sports, as can be seen from the thousands of followers right on the courses, cheering each player as they coast along. It becomes very challenging then for flag manufacturers to come up with designs and proper color combination to also appeal to those enthusiasts actually on the golf courses. As each flag manufacturer is entrusted by companies to provide the best visually entertaining golf flags in the golf courses, it has not only raised the popularity of the golf flags , but also the quality of these ornaments as well.
by: The Flagman
Our passion for flags are not only evident on the several types that we use for our organization, whether it maybe civic or just plain reunions. This same need for recognition carries over to the military as each branch of the military is represented as well, from the Army to the Marine Corps, the Navy to the Air Force as well as the Coast Guard. American military flags used by the servicemen are all confined only to military installations and stations and could not be used outside, particularly if such is not officially sanctioned. During special occasions though where there is a military parade, the different branches of the military uses the National colors, it is actually a version of the official flag of the United States used by the Marine Corps, the Coast Guard and the Navy. While the Army and the Air Force use a slightly altered American Flag - it has a yellow-gold fringe all around the United States Flag. These flags have evolved through the centuries and the military is quite sensitive if an official version of the military flag is not properly duplicated. Flag manufacturers must therefore take extra precaution and care so that each size, the graphic images particularly and the true colors must be followed to expressly serve the purpose. Not much maybe on the flags used by the different branches of the military, but explicit and accurate duplication is required for the National Colors, for after all it is used to showcase the military establishment. So, Americans expect these flags to fly during Independence Day celebrations, Commemoration rites, the military centennial affairs and all other events that require the official involvement of the military.
by: The Flagman
|
