Had a feeling I would get a answer like the one you just gave.  So you called the USPTO w/o knowing anyone there and got to speak with someone who knows about this particular case, and you know who that person is that supplied you with the info?  Is that correct? Let me guess now.  The person you spoke to is actually a friend of a friend who knows a friend at the USPTO.  Of course the USPTO isn't going to divulge info to perfect stranger.  Right?  I'm starting to enjoy the conversation.   Opty