Mark, I agree 100%. Our HOA has other, more important issues to deal with than what I am doing in my backyard. Neighbors still have no problems with my antennas or radios, not one complaint since 2007! I am looking for alternatives, a nice crank up would fit the bill.
Its amazing how an HOA will ignore the "dope house" on the block but will target with laser-like accuracy the guy with a well manicured lawn who wants to install an antenna !
Steve, somehow you have to get around that HOA and install a tower and beam. Maybe you should call their bluff. I would imagine most HOA's wouldnt spend the money in court over an issue regarding an antenna.