I'm a couple of days late, but we'll still count this for February and expect another letter in March.
I am very pleased to report that the last couple of conference calls have been attended by several Regional Captains as part of improving communications and input. We've discussed concerns, proposals, and opened the call for questions to be shared. I think it's been viewed as a positive experience by everyone involved and one that we would like to see continue, even when most of the country has riding weather!
We have had a couple of web site issues in the past month. It will take some time to completely resolve, but we are actively working on upgrading the site. We have received equipment donations to replace every server with a newer and more powerful unit. Drew and Hugh are already working on replicating our site to the new equipment. Before we complete this move, we are also looking into upgrading the existing site software and modules to improve the reliability and capabilities on the new servers. Our long term plan will utilize the current servers as a backup site; remotely located from the main site and continually updated so that it has accurate mission info if it needs to come online.
We've also had a number of changes in the State Captain ranks in the last month. Unfortunately, these positions do take a toll on a person’s strength and time away from family and responsibilities. We would like to thank all of our volunteers leadership for their commitment to mission and the organization, and thank those who have been promoted to the flag line.
I don't guess any update to the membership would be complete without comments on the trademark defense. Currently, both parties have filed a Motion for Summary Judgment; this is a request for the Review Board to review arguments without going through the longer motions. As always, the documents can be viewed at ttabvue.uspto.gov. As in the past, we will ensure the information is available to you without "spinning it". There are a couple of related things that I must comment on though.
From reading the Opposer’ s filing and other "comments", I am truly amazed by the tone. Their words refer to "self serving statements" and indicate a view that our position is motivated for our "gain". Let's be absolutely clear on this; the only thing the PGR stands to "win" is securing your organization to have the right to conduct missions under the name and continue to independently and transparently fund the organization to be able to maintain the website, purchase plaques, and support HOTH missions as able; no matter what state they are in or at one person's discretion. Your organization; as a non-profit. Our financial documents have always been available for the membership to know how the funds are being used. Our Opposer has refused to share any financial information about this operation, even under oath; yet he has questioned the amount of revenue our store generates for the mission. I guess we could make unsupported claims like that also, but we won't. Our only "gain" is that we continue the mission and cover the costs of doing so. No profit, and that is verified.
I'd like to express sincere thanks for all that have been able to help support the Legal Defense Fund. It continues to be a challenge that you are helping to win. It's far from finished, but I do believe we are making progress from your commitment and generosity.
I've mentioned previously that we conducted an anonymous poll among the State Captains regarding our specific position on the trademark defense. The poll was unanimous that the PGR requires a source of funding and that the logo and name should belong to Patriot Guard Riders, Inc. The vote was 87% against our Opposer having any say or rights to the mark. They are aware of this overwhelming opposition to their claims and the fact that most states will never support their use of the name.
For most of the country, riding season is coming. Please check your mission vehicles for safety and especially inspect any flag mounts.
Thank you for all that you do for the mission. Respects, Whirlwind