I've been trying to to not comment on this issue but it's time for my 2 cents.........
Since you've decided to air out your opinions about Mark in this forum it's time for you to catch flak also!
This is ridiculous ... and needs to end!
Mike --- you say that you would have probably given permission, if asked, to use "your" design for this coin. SO ..... what's the problem!? Why then are you throw such a big hissy fit?? Does your ego need some stroking? Maybe a little emotional Band-Aid for you. The comment about how the back of the coin is an identical match to yours is a clear cut case, it does resemble it, but it wasn't done with the intent to harm you or your own. It's the scout law, how many ways can it be printed out. Maybe the font used was his favorite? If he would have just changed the font would this have made you happy or are you claiming that style of lettering for you and you alone? If so, I may have an issue with you about that. I've been using that same font in my business for 10 years now and you didn't ask my permission for the use of it either. In fact I'm pretty sure you weren't the first to make an oval coin, maybe you should have asked permission for that also.
You have said that you are a scout supporter and have relatives in the program. So do I. I have a question for you, Where in the scout law does it refer to extortion and harassment. It seems to me you have crossed the line and committed both. "PAY ME $50 .... or what???? Give me a break, why don't you get off you tiny saopbox and get a life. What's the idea of tracking down Mark and Jeff, the committee chair, and calling them directly, at home no less. Who do you think you are, the Geo-Coin police? What's next, are you planning a cross country trip to California so you can really become a certified staker?
Claiming that the coin used the same banner as your is also a weak argument. I make headstones for a living. In our business the use of similar artwork is a common practice. It's a simple banner, font and layout. It's not unique in any fashion. I've used the same type of banner on a stone just yesterday ... should I have asked you for permission? I think not.
Was this coin made with the intent of stealing any thunder away from you and your coin ...NO! It was done to aid in the cost for a worthy cause. All money raised from it is going to the scouts for this troop outing. Mark isn't making anything on these coins. Where did the profit from yours go ... your pockets? Great for you. I read that you donated some of your coins to your local troop, great, I'll send you a one of these coins just for you ... free! Will that make you happy?
You have attacked the credibility of the troop. Saying that these scouts are learning that it is okay to "steal" as long as you say sorry. Steal what??? The Scout Law? Didn't know you were the owner of it. This is unacceptable!!!!! These scouts have done nothing to you. They shouldn't have even been brought up. These scouts do more for their community then most of us will ever do. Collecting food door to door to fill local food closets, packing gift boxes for our troops overseas and for needy kids at Christmas time, volunteering their time to help out at local functions and putting others needs before their own. I think that these kids are learning more then you have accused them of. What have you done for your community lately? You should apologize to them!
It's time for me to get off my soapbox now .... and YES! if you haven't figured it out I am also associated with Troop 333. In fact my eldest is the troops first EAGLE scout. I also have 2 other sons in the troop.
ps ... I see you are coming to GeoWoodstock in May. I'll be more then happy to discuss this in person then, if you wish.
