TDF (163):
Yes, I was examining the hi-res images. I stand by my claim that the sky in the pole image has been altered. I would encourage anyone to follow my instructions and make up their own minds.
As to the rest... maybe I wasn't clear. When I said "The centre flagpole is of a different texture than the other two, and is apparently growing out of a mature bush, which means nobody could get close enough to raise or lower the flag" I wasn't implying Photoshopping - I think the flagpole really is of a different texture (you say it's under different lighting conditions - fair enough). The other image does prove that their are only three flagpoles, and one of them has historically been empty. If the American flag is missing as you imply, where is the Canadian flag supposed to go?
My last comment was a joke - a little dig at the people who would like to tar and feather an entire nation based on inflammatory journalism. Hence the anecdote/proof crack. I'm sorry it went over your head.