What We’re Talking About

Marketing Ethics in the Spotlight: Navigating the Right of Publicity in the Presidential Cologne Controversy
Ryan Myers Ryan Myers

Marketing Ethics in the Spotlight: Navigating the Right of Publicity in the Presidential Cologne Controversy

The launch of a Donald Trump-branded cologne sparked debate over its unauthorized use of First Lady Jill Biden’s image, raising questions about the right of publicity. This blog explores legal protections, ethical considerations, and the balance between free speech and commercial rights, emphasizing the importance of consent and respect in marketing practices.

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Buc-ee’s Sues Missouri Liquor Store Duckees Over Trademark Infringement
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

Buc-ee’s Sues Missouri Liquor Store Duckees Over Trademark Infringement

Buc-ee's is suing Missouri liquor store Duckees for trademark infringement, alleging Duckees' duck logo mimics its iconic beaver logo, risking consumer confusion. Buc-ee's seeks an injunction, destruction of merchandise, and damages. This case underscores the importance of trademarks in protecting brand identity and preventing unfair competition in the marketplace.

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When Trademarks Clash: Lessons from X Hydration’s Lawsuit Against Logan Paul’s Prime Brand
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

When Trademarks Clash: Lessons from X Hydration’s Lawsuit Against Logan Paul’s Prime Brand

Minnesota’s X Hydration is suing Logan Paul’s Prime Hydration for trademark infringement, claiming Prime X Hydration is causing consumer confusion with similar branding. This case highlights the importance of securing and enforcing trademarks to protect your brand. At Ed White Law, we help businesses safeguard their intellectual property and navigate Intellectual Property disputes.

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The Return of Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s Iconic No. 8 Budweiser Paint Scheme and the Importance of Trademark Protection in NASCAR
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

The Return of Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s Iconic No. 8 Budweiser Paint Scheme and the Importance of Trademark Protection in NASCAR

In NASCAR, few paint schemes are as iconic as Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s No. 8 Budweiser car. The legacy it holds on the track and the fan loyalty it inspires have made it a symbol of NASCAR history. Recently, Dale Earnhardt Jr. shared the exciting news of bringing back the No. 8 Budweiser paint scheme, complete with his ownership of the No. 8 DEI font trademark. As someone who works in trademark law, I find the backstory behind this iconic number's return fascinating and insightful for understanding the nuances of trademark law within a high-stakes industry like motorsports.

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Nike Accused of Legal Bullying in Trademark Battle: Court Calls Out 'Bad Faith' Tactics
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

Nike Accused of Legal Bullying in Trademark Battle: Court Calls Out 'Bad Faith' Tactics

In a David vs. Goliath legal battle, small business Lontex sued Nike for trademark infringement over its “Cool Compression” technology. Despite a court ruling in Lontex’s favor, Nike’s strategy of burying the company in legal fees has sparked outrage. A court-ordered report accuses Nike of bad faith tactics, highlighting the power imbalance between corporations and small businesses.

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Marvel and DC Lose Decades-Old 'Super Hero' Trademarks: What It Means for the Industry
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

Marvel and DC Lose Decades-Old 'Super Hero' Trademarks: What It Means for the Industry

Marvel and DC have lost their decades-old "Super Hero" trademarks by default judgement, following a challenge from Superbabies Ltd., freeing the term for use by all creators. This pivotal ruling opens new opportunities in the superhero genre, showing the importance of trademark protection. Contact Ed White Law for expert assistance in safeguarding your brand’s identity and intellectual property.

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Remembering Kris Kristofferson: Legendary Songwriter and Fearless Advocate
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

Remembering Kris Kristofferson: Legendary Songwriter and Fearless Advocate

Kris Kristofferson, legendary songwriter and actor, has passed away at 88. Known for hits like "Me and Bobby McGee" and his role in A Star Is Born, Kristofferson was also a champion of the underdog, famously defending Sinead O'Connor during her most controversial moment. His legacy of bold artistry, compassion, and defiance will continue to inspire.

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Lawsuit Against MrBeast and Amazon May Derail the Highly Anticipated Beast Games
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

Lawsuit Against MrBeast and Amazon May Derail the Highly Anticipated Beast Games

A new lawsuit against MrBeast and Amazon Studios claims contestants on Beast Games were exploited, subjected to unsafe conditions, and faced systemic sexism during filming. With accusations of labor law violations and mistreatment, could this legal battle jeopardize the highly anticipated reality competition? Dive into the details and what it could mean for the show's future.

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Protect Your Brand, Strengthen Your Business, Secure Your Future:  Why You Need Trademark Protection
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

Protect Your Brand, Strengthen Your Business, Secure Your Future: Why You Need Trademark Protection

Your brand is one of your business’s most valuable assets, and protecting it—whether locally or nationwide—is essential for long-term success. Trademarks safeguard your name, logo, and reputation, providing exclusive rights at both the state and federal levels. Learn why securing your brand early is critical for avoiding costly disputes, and how Ed White Law can help you protect it, no matter your location or business size.

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Oklahoma & Other States Address the Issue of Involuntary Pelvic Exams on Unconscious Patients
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

Oklahoma & Other States Address the Issue of Involuntary Pelvic Exams on Unconscious Patients

Oklahoma lawmakers are addressing the disturbing reality of pelvic exams performed on unconscious patients without consent, often for educational purposes. Led by Rep. Marilyn Stark, the effort seeks to protect patient rights and prevent retraumatization of sexual assault survivors. The push for new legislation aims to make informed consent a legal requirement for all such procedures.

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Artists Take a Stand Against Unauthorized Use of Their Music in Political Campaigns
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

Artists Take a Stand Against Unauthorized Use of Their Music in Political Campaigns

Musicians are increasingly opposing the unauthorized use of their songs in political campaigns, as seen in a recent ruling banning Trump from using Isaac Hayes' music. High-profile artists like Jack White and The Rolling Stones demand respect for their rights, pushing for proper licensing and ethical use, shaping the future of music in political events.

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Court Rules TikTok Can Be Sued Over Deadly ‘Blackout Challenge’: Could Redefine Platform Liability Under Section 230
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

Court Rules TikTok Can Be Sued Over Deadly ‘Blackout Challenge’: Could Redefine Platform Liability Under Section 230

A Pennsylvania court ruled that TikTok must face a lawsuit over the "blackout challenge," which led to a child's death. The court found that TikTok's algorithmic recommendations are considered the platform's own speech, not third-party content. This decision could redefine the limits of Section 230 immunity and increase platform liability for harmful content.

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Hidden Nightmare: How Prison Gangs Are Extorting Families in Oklahoma
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

Hidden Nightmare: How Prison Gangs Are Extorting Families in Oklahoma

Oklahoma's prison system is plagued by a rampant extortion crisis driven by in-prison gangs using contraband cellphones. Families are being forced to pay thousands to protect their incarcerated loved ones from further harm. The state's understaffed prisons and inadequate technology exacerbate the problem, calling for urgent reforms to break the cycle of fear and violence.

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Trump Files $100 Million Claim Against DOJ Over Mar-a-Lago Raid
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

Trump Files $100 Million Claim Against DOJ Over Mar-a-Lago Raid

Former President Trump has filed a $100 million claim against the DOJ, alleging misconduct in the 2022 FBI search of Mar-a-Lago. The search, approved by a federal judge, led to criminal charges related to classified documents. Trump argues the search was improper and politically motivated, fueling ongoing debates about justice and government power as his legal battles continue.

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The Hidden Costs of Bad Faith Insurance Denials: Lessons from a $200 Million Verdict
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

The Hidden Costs of Bad Faith Insurance Denials: Lessons from a $200 Million Verdict

The recent affirmation of a $200M verdict against Sierra Health highlights the dire consequences of bad faith insurance denials. The Eskew case reveals how insurers prioritize profit over patient care and underscores the need for accountability. This landmark decision empowers policyholders to understand their rights and demand transparency, signaling a call for ethical reform in the insurance industry.

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Google's Monopoly Crumbles: Landmark Antitrust Ruling Sets New Precedent for Big Tech
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

Google's Monopoly Crumbles: Landmark Antitrust Ruling Sets New Precedent for Big Tech

In a landmark antitrust ruling, a federal judge has declared Google a monopolist, challenging its dominance in online search. The decision accuses Google of stifling competition through billion-dollar deals to secure its search engine as the default on devices. This pivotal case signals a new era of accountability for Big Tech and could reshape the future of the digital landscape.

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Elon Musk Sued by Don Lemon Over Canceled Partnership Deal with X
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

Elon Musk Sued by Don Lemon Over Canceled Partnership Deal with X

Don Lemon is suing Elon Musk and X for breaching a $1.5 million content deal after a tense interview with Musk. The lawsuit claims X used Lemon to attract advertisers, then canceled the agreement, damaging his reputation. This case underscores the challenges of media partnerships in the digital age, with potential implications for content creation and platform strategies.

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Nike Files $60M Lawsuit Against The Shoe Surgeon
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

Nike Files $60M Lawsuit Against The Shoe Surgeon

Nike has filed a $60M lawsuit against The Shoe Surgeon for allegedly creating counterfeit Nike products and offering courses on replicating their designs. Despite previous collaborations, Nike cites numerous failed attempts to resolve the issue privately. This legal action underscores Nike's commitment to protecting its brand and ensuring consumers receive authentic products.

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AT&T's Data Carelessness Risks National Security and Exposes Customers to Fraud
Edward L. White Edward L. White

AT&T's Data Carelessness Risks National Security and Exposes Customers to Fraud

AT&T's repeated failures to secure customer data have exposed millions to fraud and jeopardized national security. Despite knowing the risks, AT&T delayed notifications and took inadequate action to protect customers. Their history of prioritizing profits over privacy highlights a troubling disregard for consumer safety and regulatory compliance.

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AT&T Data Breach Exposes Call and Text Data of Nearly All Cellular Customers
Christine Sterkel Christine Sterkel

AT&T Data Breach Exposes Call and Text Data of Nearly All Cellular Customers

AT&T announced a data breach affecting nearly all cellular customers' 2022 call and text metadata, stolen from a third-party cloud platform. Discovered in April and disclosed after a Justice Department investigation, the breach includes contact numbers and call durations but no personal details. AT&T is notifying affected users and working with law enforcement to apprehend the hackers.

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