This week, ClickBack asked editorial page readers to comment on the economic impact and role of fairs in community life; the Maine Office of Tourism’s decision to promote “stay-cations,” and the Bangor Housing Authority’s compromise over the display of a flag at one of its housing complexes. Look for more ClickBack questions in Tuesday’s editorial column, or post your own question at bangordailynews.com. Reader comments may be featured on the following Friday’s OpEd page.

The Bangor State Fair is in town. Are such fairs good for a community?

I think that we do not need to over-analyze the Bangor State Fair’s economic and social impact. Fairs and festivals are fun, so let’s relax a little and enjoy them while the summer’s still here!

– takei

The Bangor State Fair is one of the “dirtiest” fairs in the state. It pales in comparison with others that offer more exhibits and a better variety of entertainment. I stopped attending years ago. In addition the prices are outrageous, and the majority of the people attending the fair are those that can least afford to spend that kind of money. I say get rid of the fair and use the land for a more modern convention center that would really bring economic vitality and community pride to our city.

– Silence Dogood

Maine tourism promoters want you to vacation here. Is this a good strategy?

My wife and I just returned from a stay in the Five Lakes region near Millinocket. We stayed in a wonderful log cabin B&B just feet from the water with a view of Katahdin from our room. We experienced fine dining, moose swimming by our canoe, swimming, hiking, accommodations that lacked nothing for our comfort, and peace, peace, peace. All this and more and less than two hours from home. Let’s promote Maine in and out of state, but let’s feature the amazing resources we have inland. Maine is more than lobsters.

– ken

I’ll continue to travel out of state. I spend plenty just trying to get out of the state. … The out-of-state dollars are what we need.

– homer

Housing authority’s U.S. flag compromise. A slap in the face?

I find it odd that if Mr. Brazeau had burned his flag in protest or had people walk upon it as art, he would have been well within his First Amendment rights. Yet it appears simply displaying the flag with respect is not protected by the First Amendment.

Would Francis Scott Key have written our national anthem 194 years ago if after the 25-hour bombardment of Fort McHenry in Baltimore, British Adm. Cockburn had sent in a detachment from the fierce Bangor Housing Authority to remove the fort’s flag? Perhaps not.

– takei