TM Blog
Honeywell Blocks Chinese Registration
Honeywell successfully blocked the registration of the mark GALITT in China by a local Chinese auto parts maker. The mark sounds similar to Honeywell's GARRETT mark for auto parts. Because Chinese characters can be used to form many marks that are similar to an English mark, it is important to actively monitor marks in China.
Gunslinger Trademark Wars
Oklahoma State University is suing neighboring New Mexico State University for trademark infringement. Both used varations on a western gunslinger, and New Mexico State licensed the mark from Oklahoma State for many years. The marks share the gunslinger theme, but otherwise look different. Since 2005, the New Mexico State mark has sported a lasso instead of six-shooters.
Peace, Love, and Juice
The Federal Circuit struck down the Trademark Trial and Appeal Boards refusal to register the mark "PEACE, LOVE, AND JUICE." The court noted that the phrase 'Peace, Love' is quite common in marks, and that as a result GS Enterprises' Peace and Love mark was not strong, diminishing their argument for opposing the registration of Peace, Love, and Juice.
Batmen Can't Use Batman Logo
Gotham City Networking's softball team, the Gotham Batmen, were told by the USPTO that they can't use the BATMAN logo, agreeing that the logo was a famous mark.
NFL Counterfeit Product Web Sites
The NFL has been fighting against the hundreds of web sites that sell unlicensed merchandise with NFL team logos and trademarks.