San Marcos homeowners push back as HOA fines flag displays ahead of 250th birthday

In San Marcos, California, homeowners in the Ambiance Owners Association are facing fines for displaying American flags, with Amy and Christopher Cooke arguing the flag is on private property and that the HOA misreads its rules. The HOA has ordered removal of a flag mount within 15 days, prompting a fundraising effort to cover legal costs and attention from civil-liberties advocates who say blanket bans on flag displays can be unlawful, as supporters urge more flags ahead of the nation’s 250th birthday.