Original Message Date: 28 Jan 92 08:25:19
From: Ron Dwight on 2:220/22
To: Tom Jennings on 1:125/111
Subj: Your registered marks.
^AINTL 1:125/111 2:220/22
Hi Tom,
       here's a nice little excersize to think about.  It's not �
hyperthetical
so a real answer would be appreciated but don't spend any money on lawyers.

          We have a couple of guys in Finland who have started a small �
company. They have called that company, FidoNet Ky.

          The "Ky" is a kind of registration somewhere between a �
"registered
trader" and a full blown incorporated company.  The distinction is a bit �
weird
for me but anyway, ignore it for now.

          The question is, where do you stand in this?  Do you own the
"FidoNet" mark world-wide?  Not that you would (Finnish law being what it �
is),
but could you force this company to change it's name?  What happens if they
start to trade world-wide?

          Your thoughts will make a few people happy over here. Thanks for �
yourtime.


                                                   Cheers,

Original Message Date: 28 Jan 92 08:25:19
From: Ron Dwight on 2:220/22
To: Tom Jennings on 1:125/111
Subj: Your registered marks.
^AINTL 1:125/111 2:220/22
Hi Tom,
       here's a nice little excersize to think about.  It's not �
hyperthetical
so a real answer would be appreciated but don't spend any money on lawyers.

          We have a couple of guys in Finland who have started a small �
company. They have called that company, FidoNet Ky.

          The "Ky" is a kind of registration somewhere between a �
"registered
trader" and a full blown incorporated company.  The distinction is a bit �
weird
for me but anyway, ignore it for now.

          The question is, where do you stand in this?  Do you own the
"FidoNet" mark world-wide?  Not that you would (Finnish law being what it �
is),
but could you force this company to change it's name?  What happens if they
start to trade world-wide?

          Your thoughts will make a few people happy over here. Thanks for �
yourtime.


                                                   Cheers,

Original Message Date: 04 Feb 92  00:34:38
From: tom jennings on 1:125/111
To: Ron Dwight on 2:220/22
Subj: re: Your registered marks.
^AINTL 2:220/22 1:125/111
>        here's a nice little excersize to think about.  It's 
> not hyperthetical
> so a real answer would be appreciated but don't spend any 
> money on lawyers.
 
Huh?! What does this mean? Is it a joke, or an intentional prod or 
dare? (I will assume its merely poor wording.)

>           We have a couple of guys in Finland who have 
> started a small company. They have called that company, 
> FidoNet Ky.

>           The question is, where do you stand in this?  Do 
> you own the
> "FidoNet" mark world-wide?  Not that you would (Finnish law 
> being what it is),
> but could you force this company to change it's name?  What 
> happens if they
> start to trade world-wide?
 
I believe most European states have reciprocity agreements with US 
govt patents and trademarks. If there stuff coems here, they will be 
in direct violation of U.S. trademark law.
 
I would ask them please, do not name their company "FidoNet". Period. 
Even if they find it strictly legal. It *is* misleading. (I use one of 
the two best computer software trademark lawyers in the U.S.; I will 
ask about it.)

And since you asked, if they persist, they will be on my shit list.


I hope *they* are using lawyers. I do. I take the trademark stuff VERY 
seriously. It is the direct interest of the FidoNet members, all of 
them, including them, and you, to keep the trademark unsullied. (ANd 
it makes me *no money*, zero.) The trademark will be defended, I can 
assure you of that. 
 
I wouls ask you please to forward this message, or its contents, 
interpreted, and let them know how important this is. It's not a joke 
at all.
 
ANd if they insist, could you provide me with contact information? 
(Actually, I'd like their address now, if you have it.)