What We’re Talking About
Independence Day and Intellectual Property: Parallel Pathways to Progress
As the Fourth of July fast approaches, the spirit of independence, innovation, and perseverance fills the air. While the holiday is primarily celebrated as a milestone of our nation's independence, we at Ed White Law believe it is also an opportunity to reflect on the parallel stories of evolution, revolution, and the birth of something unprecedented, shared by both our nation and the field of Intellectual Property (IP).
“Taco Tuesday” Trademark Tussle Gets Spicy
The "Taco Tuesday" trademark tussle is getting quite spicy, and Ed White Law is here for it. Taco John's, a fast food taco spot known for its regional footprint, has issued a rebuttal to Taco Bell's efforts to democratize the phrase for public consumption. In a response filed on Friday, countering Taco Bell’s appeal to "cancel" the trademark, the parent company of Taco John’s, Spicy Seasonings, contested there is "anything 'not cool' about" the act of securing a trademark for the slogan. The organization, based in Wyoming, suggested that Taco Bell’s lawsuit is riddled with "statements of opinion to which no response is required, including that Tuesday is a mediocre day of the week."
Forbidden Fruit: Inside Apple’s Ambitious Trademark Takeover
In the Intellectual Property World, there’s a captivating trademark battle happening between Fruit Union Suisse, Switzerland's oldest and largest fruit farmer's organization, and tech giant Apple. You see, Apple is trying to trademark images of apples – the fruit, not the computers. For over a century, Fruit Union Suisse proudly displayed a red apple with a white cross—an embodiment of the Swiss national flag superimposed on one of the country's most common fruits—as its symbol. However, their logo now faces uncertainty due to Apple's ambitious pursuit of intellectual property rights over depictions of apples.
Juneteenth: Honoring Freedom and Innovation
Today we stand in the shadow of a significant day in American history. On this day, June 19th, we commemorate Juneteenth — a celebration of the emancipation of those who were enslaved in the United States. This anniversary stands not merely as a monument to the past, but as a beacon lighting our way towards a future where equality, freedom, and innovation are the rights of all.
Latham Group Expansion: A Testament to Oklahoma's Flourishing Business Environment
At our Intellectual Property firm, we have a front-row seat to the burgeoning innovation and enterprise growth within Oklahoma's borders. Today, we are excited to spotlight a significant milestone in our state's industrial landscape. Latham Group, Inc., an international leader in the design, manufacturing, and marketing of in-ground residential swimming pools, recently announced its latest manufacturing facility in Seminole, Oklahoma.
Tucker & Fox News: They’re Never Ever Ever Getting Back Together
The sudden split between Tucker Carlson and Fox News in April was far from amicable. Since Tucker’s departure, various sources from the Murdoch-led network have shared less than flattering aspects of Carlson's untelevised racism. Moreover, the legal wrangling surrounding Carlson's latest endeavor implies that the animosity between him and Fox will persist for some time.
Remembering Cormac McCarthy: A Literary Titan's Enduring Legacy
Today, the literary world mourns the loss of one of its greatest and most enigmatic voices, Cormac McCarthy. With his passing, we reflect on the indelible mark he left on literature and his profound impact on readers around the globe. McCarthy's unique style, haunting narratives, and unflinching examination of the human condition have secured his place among the literary giants of our time.
Trump Blasted in Copyright Clash with Hollywood Heavyweights
Artists Equity, the production company owned by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, has issued a statement expressing their strong disapproval of the unauthorized use of a monologue from their recent movie, Air, for a campaign fundraising video posted by Donald Trump. The video, lasting two and a half minutes, was shared on Truth Social and incorporated nearly the entire audio from a notable monologue delivered by Damon in the film. In the movie, the speech is used as a persuading factor to get Michael Jordan to sign with Nike, whereas Trump is employing it to encourage his MAGA supporters to donate money to his presidential campaign.
The Red, White, & Blue Flags of Trademark Law
As Flag Day (observed every June 14th) draws closer, we at Ed White Law are preparing to honor our national symbol as we delve into a unique topic – the intersection of the U.S. flag and trademark law. Yes, you read that correctly. Our flag's iconic status holds an intriguing place in the world of intellectual property law.
Supreme Court Drops Bombshell Opinion in Jack Daniel’s Dispute
In a shocking twist on Thursday, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously in favor of Jack Daniel’s, vacating the Ninth Circuit’s holding that a squeaky dog toy resembling the iconic whiskey bottle is an expressive work protected by the First Amendment.
Unmasking the False Notifications from the "Patent & Trademark Bureau"
When it comes to protecting your innovation or brand, the process of obtaining patents and trademarks becomes pivotal. In the United States, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) serves as the governing body that oversees such crucial processes. However, a shadowy entity has recently been exploiting this scenario. A so-called "Patent & Trademark Bureau" has been masquerading as the USPTO, sending out misleading notifications to unsuspecting recipients.
The Wonderful World of Trademarks: Unlocking Your Intellectual Property Potential
In the realm of business, trademarks are essential. They are unique symbols or words, distinctive phrases or logos, even specific designs, that identify and differentiate goods or services' sources. Whether it's the Apple logo or Nike's famous "Just Do It" slogan, trademarks are integral in establishing a brand's identity. Today, we dive into this fascinating sphere and examine what can and should be trademarked - including some surprising elements you may never have considered.
A Kaleidoscope of Change: Tracing the Colorful Evolution of PRIDE
The joyous celebration of PRIDE events today, with their rainbow banners flapping in the wind, vibrant parades, and empowering speeches, has deep roots steeped in resistance, activism, and the tireless quest for civil rights. PRIDE's history is a testament to the courage, resilience, and determination of the LGBTQ+ community, reminding us of the progress made and the work that continues in the pursuit of equality.
Taco Tuesday’s Trademark Tug-o-War
Taco Bell — infamously known for their late-night hours and cheesy goodness, has recently filed a petition with the US Patent and Trademark Office to cancel the trademark “Taco Tuesday,” used by their rival chain company Taco John’s for the last 34 years. The hope from Taco Bell is that “Taco Tuesday,” can be shared, as it is a commonly used phrase that “should be freely available to all who make, sell, eat and celebrate tacos.”
Six Sizzling Summer Patents: The Brilliant Inventions Behind Our Favorite Season
Ah, summer – a season of radiant sunshine, endless blue skies, and the intoxicating scent of BBQ wafting through the air. It's a magical time brimming with beach trips, backyard shenanigans, and ice-cold treats. But have you ever paused to wonder about the ingenious inventions that make your summer so unforgettable? Let's dive into six patented ideas that have helped transform summer into the sunny delight we all treasure.
Simply the Best: Celebrating Tina Turner's Musical Legacy
There are few artists whose impact resonates with such raw power, emotional depth, and timeless relevance as Tina Turner's. Her voice was the soundtrack to many lives and the heartbeat of rock 'n' roll. Her story, an inspiring tale of resilience and triumph over adversity. Today, we celebrate the unforgettable journey and the monumental legacy of Tina Turner, whose spirit continues to electrify the world.
Napster: Rogue Pirate or Revolutionary Hero?
Once upon a time, at the turn of the millennium, a cat logo with headphones heralded the arrival of a seismic shift in how people listened to music. The name was Napster, and in its wake, it left a transformed landscape of music consumption and copyright law.
Deposition Diplomacy: Mastering the Art of Preparation
If you find yourself on the business end of a legal action, the word "deposition" may suddenly become a frightening part of your vocabulary. It’s a word that brings to mind an image of a stern-faced attorney grilling you under bright lights, a silent court reporter clicking away, and a threat of possible legal consequences hanging in the air. It might sound like a scene from a dramatic courtroom thriller, but worry not - with proper preparation, navigating a deposition can be easy like Sunday morning.
The Hidden Dangers of Forced Arbitration: A Closer Look
We live in an era where 'Terms and Conditions' pop up everywhere - from downloading a new app to starting a new job. However, in the sea of fine print, there's one clause that often goes unnoticed, yet holds significant implications: forced arbitration. This article aims to shed light on the dangers associated with forced arbitration and why it's crucial to understand its implications.
The Sound of Litigation: Five Famous Infringement Suits in the Music Industry
The music industry is known for its creativity, innovation, and transformative power. Yet, it's also a field where intellectual property rights hold a high significance. Over the years, we've seen several high-profile copyright infringement lawsuits that have impacted not only the artists involved but also the broader music industry. Let’s talk about five of the most famous lawsuits in the industry.