More Half Staff Controversy?

How very disappointing to arrive at QCYC for Saturday's work party and discover that another member had passed away. While I was not well acquainted with the individual, it's a common loss to Queen City, as well as a horrific loss to family and close friends of the deceased. Everyone at QCYC wishes "Goodspeed" or "RIP" to the departed and extends condolences to the family involved.

Somewhat less disappointing, but also of concern, was that we were flying the mourning burgee (consistent with current club policy) and the US flag was lowered to half staff. Several members have been extremely vocal in their opposition to the new policy formulated by the bridge and the board regarding the way in which we signal the death of a member. I certainly hope that somebody did not take it upon himself or herself to half staff the US flag without authorization.

The US flag should not become a punching bag between QCYC factions in disagreement over flag protocol. Nothing would be more disrespectful to the flag than jerking it up and down the pole all day, (depending upon which particular opinion the member currently walking past the mast might hold regarding half staff displays to note the passing of a yacht club member).

Maybe we should honor our deceased members' tenure and service to QCYC by trying to be more cohesive and more willing to work together as a club? That would sure beat using every death as an excuse to poke a festering wound.

In a conversation with one of the QCYC members who sincerely and adamantly feels that the US flag should be lowered following the death of a club member, he suggested, "I think this flag thing is important enough for us to put to a vote of the membership. I would go along with the policy if it were voted in by the members, even if I still wouldn't like it much. I'm less willing to go along if it is something just decided on by the bridge and the board."

Two thoughts: First, we do elect our officers and board members to represent the membership and make policy decisions. We can't put everything to a vote. Second, (however), if there is so much passion for this issue that the club is going to divide up into feuding groups literally yanking the flag up and down the pole, it might be something that could be subject to a vote.