It's been a long time since this has been updated, and that is something that has to be changed.  As the President of the organization, it's my responsibility to communicate with you and share information on topics that are important to us all...  So, I'm going to make a start at catching up with much of what has happened and ask that anytime I haven't updated this during the month, please send me an email and help keep me on time.

GOTG  - Many thanks to Tony and all of the volunteers for making GOTG 08 a great time to be together, meet more members of our PGR family, and talk about items of interest with so many members.  Virginia made us all very welcome and came up with an awesome design for the event.  I was honored to meet so many of our east coast members and Captains. 

GOTG 09 - is already moving forward in the state of Utah, promising some great rides.  I hope that each year, we'll see this event grow and bring members from more and more states together in friendship and the mission.  I've been able to attend every GOTG so far and have enjoyed learning about PGR missions and members from far away.

TRADEMARK - There is little "definitive" information to share, but I'll post what I am able and where the timeline for this process stands.  Depositions were completed in October, in Tulsa, OK, since that is where our "corporate" address is.  Representing the Patriot Guard Riders, I was able to attend all depositions.  I am certainly not an attorney and cannot go into details at this time, but I believe the depositions were very much in favor of the Patriot Guard Riders application.  When I am able to share details, I think some people are going to be in for a few surprises. 

I was notified last week that counsel has agreed upon a thirty day extension to finish replies and responses.  All dates posted in the schedule for the process are moved back thirty days. 

COMMITMENT - Although I believe our case is right and strong, I won't lie and make any type of guarantee.  We've all seen guilty people walk free and innocent folks not get justice.  Being right doesn't guarantee anything.  I do want to assure you all that the website and domain are not at risk in this action.  We will continue to stand our mission across America, no matter what happens.  That is a promise.  As long as we are willing to stand the flag line, the mission will continue.  Like the trademark issue, I'd like to say more; but cannot at this time.  There are those who are working against the Patriot Guard Riders, Inc., because they want to take our mission for their own motive or profit.

COMMUNICATION - This has always been our hardest challenge.  When you have the organization scattered across the entire country and with different schedules, it's a challenge.  One that we haven't been succeeding with.  We will do our best to improve this vital area.  The BoD con calls will be divided to separate legal issues from other discussions.  The National Communications Officer will be attending the calls again and posting updates for the membership on a timely basis. 

MEMBERS - The members make the mission happen.  There is a lot of stress and uncertain times going on now with the economy.  It takes a toll on us all.  Do what you can for the mission, but don't neglect those close to you, or yourself.  Take care, be strong, and know that you make a difference for our families.  Enjoy your holidays and a Merry Christmas to you all.  Thank you all for all that you do for the mission!

Thank you very much Bill and all of our National staff for your dedication and commitment.
We appreciate the time and effort you all put in.

Merry xmas to your family's also.

Dave Kern
NY State Captain
Patriot Guard Riders

I echo Dave's comments.
Merry Christmas to all.

Bill, I just want to tell you what a great job you, the rest of the leadership, and the many PGR volunteers, are doing to keep the PGR strong. The PGR is appreciated by so many, and I'm very proud to be able to be a small part of it. YOU take care, stay strong, and keep focused. I know how hard that can be sometimes, but you have a lot of good people supporting you, and you all are doing a fantastic job. My heart and prayers go out to each of you every day in support of the difficult jobs you have taken on. Thank you for your hard work and dedication. The PGR wouldn't be what it is without every one of you.

Merry Christmas to you all, Happy New Year, and many prayers for peace and happiness.

Bonnie

Thank You and a very Merry Christmas
Great post and communication
I look forward to much more in the future
Ride Safe with Respect,
Mike in Nawlins'
mholiver
New Orleans Ride Captain

Having recently joined, I did so because I am familiar with the great things the organization does and wish to be a part of it . In looking through the web pages I noticed the garage sale. Would it be possible to offer the parts on the web site first, saving some of the e-bay fees? Also, is there a way to filter the events by state or even city? Thanks for the great job everyone is doing for our fallen Vets.
llallen99

I am proud to be a menber of PGR.I will also stand for the PGR no matter what the outcome is!
Everyone have a Great New Year's!!!
Be Good,Have Fun & Ride Safe!

Thank you all at BOD for what you do to keep the good fight for PGR... we got your "6"

"Standing For Those That Stood For Us"

Keep up the fight. We had the same type of situation here in town and with a long fight we did prevail. Strange how some people perceive things.
Medicineman