Enduring things that few even know about

[Reginald Rutledge]

Today, again I was alerted to the closure of my site Footballfigure.net. For many years, I've never blamed anyone because ultimately, it's my problem and no one else's. I get that! I know I've got my enemies although many have been able to make a buck because of my efforts. I sit back in amazement when I gain momentum how someone knocks me down. Enough to make your average person just walk away.

Last week, I told Wolf to take down all my post that I've ever put on here. Some people say I've given too freely of my work and no doubt, they are right! One figure maker even showed pics of my work in a tribute to him. Although it was probably accidental, it goes to show the liberties I have given in my work.

I've had board makers call and tell me they where gonna use my design or something similar. In other words, there's nothing you can do. And I see so many people using NFL and NCAA licensed things, from decals to boards to stadiums. We've all done it. But for some reason, the whistleblower has always came to me!

Guys, you would not believe the many times I've gotten letters from the NFL and NCAA wanting me to "rat out" all who practice this. There have been suggestions that I should but I will not. They want names and numbers! I never do and never have IN SPITE of the fact that I know others have done that to me. That's something I never really talk about but to a few people. Some people think they are protected by this site but you are not! Some guys think that as long as they don't do this with a business name, they can fly under the radar. Not really!

All I ask of any of you who have done this to me, is to remember that you may want an audience or market to present your ideas to without the constant harassment of protecting yourself. My site has no NFL/NCAA markings but somehow, they figure ways to come at me. I have been hit on miniature insignias not even recognizable. I think to myself, "If the NCAA is looking that close at something that is not recognizable, somebody is nitpicking".

So even though this has happened again, it will not stop me. For all of you that do your own things online or offline, I wish you well and continue what you do but just don't bring trouble my way because I don't do that to you.

I think I can honestly say I've given more of my work than most everyone combined and it is a shame that I have to go through these things. Others have benefitted off my work and I know it!
Reg

[FrankB]

Reggie, iv'e been in this hobby a short time, but i have realized that you are obviously one of the main reasons this hobby is what it is. I don't know what else to say, other than i am sorry to hear this.

[joel_p1]

This is totally Ridiculous and Dis-Tasteful to do something this lowdown.
This man only pours out his heart and soul to this hobby and this is how he gets treated.
Keep up the work and faith Reginald and I know you will still be doing what you do..
Thanks
Joel

[PraiseDaddy]

I'm REALLY sorry to hear this. I agree that from what I've seen, no one contributes more than you as far as effort, enthusiasm and creativity in the "expansion" of this hobby. Even to the point of many sleepless nights. Actually, I hit on your site last nite and thought it strange what came up on screen. I just don't get it. Especially when what you do would seem to benefit all either directly or indirectly with MF.

Well, anyway, I'd imagine most of us have you on speed-dial.

Stay gold, buddy!

[rjackson]

..........and when I bring it to you in Canton don't be surprised. Reg I am ********ed and the ^%$#@s that did this to you will understand when I come to them. *&^%ing haters. There is nothing worse then a snitch and snitchs live short lives because of it. There is a creed among brothers and that is to never tell on the next even if it benefits you. So to all that have hated on Reggie and said things behind his back in a negative manner, beware of what is coming. Benedict Arnold's are among us folks. Hate'n because of what Reggie does for the hobby. It is sickening!!!

[asparks31]

Reg I am so sorry to hear this, to think that someone in this hobby could do this to another EFLR. This person is lower than low but Reg keep your head up let me know if you need any help

[GrandMasterKC]

....If people only knew the causes you Champion for...you have never mentioned the love and support you showed for the youth in NJ. You blessed us with your kindness and contributed to (+) options for many of the students that have or now play EF in NJ. When I got you the trophy it encompassed all that you had done..past, present, and future. Again I clearly state "Coach you inspired me to stay with it" Thanks to the Blessings of The Most High you have the love to sustain you through this trying time, wife, family, friends, and the true hearts of EF. In these tough economic times to attempt to take a biscuit from a mans table is just as vicious as removing the entire meal. Reg "they can change certain conditions, but not that which is in your heart"

Thanks for being one of the innovators that made returning to this hobby a gratifying experience and all done in my short time of return.

Coach KC aka "Al"
NJ Youth thank you

While I am still feeling my way around the site Reg is one of the guys I respect and follow with each of his posts. My new team consists of almost all Reg figures. I like to deal with everyone but snitching is something I don't tolerate. Whatever happened and why it happened is way over my head but let a man do him. He already showed that he can bounce back once already. If the power that be shut you down thats one thing but if you get shutdown because of your peers that just......... WOW
Good luck man.

[Hook'em Horns]

I disagree with you a bit Tom on the Laws but perhaps I'm wrong. I saw a show on ESPN a few years ago about an artist that was being sued by Tiger Woods. He captured an image of Tiger during th MASTERS and sold it for profit. Tiger felt that because he did not give the artist permission to take his image and sell it for profit that the artist owed him a huge portion if not all that he had earned from the painting. Well, the Artist won the case. Artist are protected under the constition to earn a living and artist earn a living through the re-creation and selling of images. Is this not the same case? As long as NFL shields or NCAA shields aren't being used Reg should be protected under the constitution as an artist.

Also, the NFL does own their franchise names. However, I've seen the logos used on College and highschool teams helmets. There is a highschool team here in San Antonio, Texas that uses the spear that the redskins have on their helmet as their helmet logo. The Colts horseshoe is used on the college level as well. I forget what team but I've seen it. Dose Boise State Broncos Logo not look similar to Denver's? It very similar, different but similar. Is that not an infringment on the NFL? There is a loop hole we just don't know the specifics.

[The Rookie]

Mike
There is a high school team from east texas i forget the name but i saw them many times last year on the high school extra rap up and they have the same uniform as the Colts.
Unless they ( the colts ) gave them the ok then there most be a loop hole .