It's that time again... updates on the latest happenings and discussions with the BoD...
So, without fail, let's roll on the throttle and hit the back roads...
MEMBER QUESTIONS
- 501c3 update -
There has been no status change with our 501c3 application. We are filed and awaiting the IRS final assignment. The BoD did request that our legal counsel make a phone call to follow up on any progress the IRS has made. Keep in mind folks, this is the IRS. They're nothing even close to effecient or quick... the name of the game right now is patience.
- Gathering of the Guard -
For those that didn't make the Gathering of the Guard (myself included), I am told that it was a fantastic event. There are several "wrap-up" posts that you can read through... the only reason for mentioning it here is to throw some huge props and thank you's to Kerri Hamilton (BACritter) and her committees for all their hard work and tireless efforts. Thanks folks!! I'm raising at least one ice cold Pabst Blue Ribbon in your honor...
HELP ON THE HOMEFRONT / PROJECTS
Our HOTH team is deserved very proud of their expanding efforts. They have successfully created a network of resources and partnerships with other national veteran assistance organizations. The D.C. offices have been key in assisting in this. I would also like to recognize everyone at the state level who are actively supporting, completing, and identifying HOTH projects. Here's another PBR tilted back in your honor...
We would like to remind the states that you can petition National for support in your HOTH efforts. Get in touch with our HOTH Daily Operation Manager - Tom Hoffman.
ORGANIZATIONAL ITEMS
- Donations / Thank You page -
We have been asked by numerous state captains to revisit the idea of having a "donations thank you" page on the PGR website. Essentially a page that lists - by city and state - businesses that have donated to the PGR in the present calendar year. We have asked Tom Hoffman to put together a statement / description of how this page will work, and what information it will contain. Then, we will put it out to the State Captains for a vote. The outcome of that vote will be the final word on the issue - regardless of result. If you have specific thoughts or concerns - get them to your State Captain so they are well informed when they are asked to cast a vote on behalf of their state.
- Donation Button -
Some of you may remember the "donation button" on the PGR home page. We have gotten some inquiries as to where it went... The button was removed immediately after we discovered that our 501c3 status had not been completed. Once we have the formal copy of our determination letter in hand from the IRS... it will return.
- Email Server Issues -
I'm sure some of you have noticed that we have had some email server issues. Well, without going into alot of technical jargon... let's just say that the five gerbils we've got powering the system are getting tired. This weekend, we're going to juice 'em up with Red Bull... and if that fails... we're looking to add a few more gerbils - and possibly a guinea pig. Ok - ok... I'm just trying to have some fun. We're pulling the server offline this weekend to optimize it and possibly add more memory to it. If we do not improve performance, we may look to add another email server. (I still like the gerbil description better...)
- Communications Forum -
It has been decided that any statement from National, announcement, decision, hick-up, sneeze, or snort will be posted in the Comm Forum (this forum you are reading right now...). Please encourage other members to use this forum as their avenue to find out what is the latest news. Check back regularly --- or simply subscribe to the entire forum. You will be notified when I post and update, and since the forum is locked, the only posts will be updates from National - not discussion.
- Logo use request: Minnesota -
Minnesota requested to use the national PGR logo on a plaque they would like to present to some local supporters of their efforts. This was approved.
FINANCIAL ITEMS
- Treasury Report -
The PGR has a current balance of $115,000.00 in the bank - with $8,000.00 committed to various veteran support projects that has yet to be paid out.
CLOSING
I get emails all the time from members all across the country. Some saying "thank you" to the PGR, some asking questions, some needing help on the website. Once in awhile though... I get an email that just flat out sets me back in my favorite Lazy-Boy to say "Wow..."
I'd like to recognize one of those emails to close this out...
I know that the PGR does amazing things every day. But somedays, we manage to amaze ourselves...
If you come across any members from in and around Charleston, South Carolina... please give them a hearty pat on the back from me. Recently, in late June, they completed four funerals and one visitation IN ONE DAY with temperatures just a couple degrees south of triple digits!!! Folks... wow... I'd like to say that y'all are awesome --- but that's just dern right spectacular!!!
The PGR doin' it right - SOUTHERN STYLE!!!
Keep it up folks...
Respectfully,
Jeff |