August 2004

The INTA listserv is vigorously debating the USOC’s and Iraqi Soccer Team’s objection to ads run by the Bush campaign referencing the OLYMPICS name and Iraqi team, respectively.  INTA archives for August are here.  One interesting post from Cliff Potter of The Potter Group is reproduced with permission here:

“Political advertisements seeking to obtain votes

Interesting use-based application (Sec. 2(f))  no. 76420667 from Hilfiger, covering perfumery, printed materials and a wide range of clothing.   Approved for publication.

Description of Mark: The mark consists of a repeating stripe pattern applied uniformly over the goods or to parts thereof.

Lining and Stippling: The following colors and shades of colors are claimed

The Lanham Act prohibits false statements and statements that are true but intended to mislead, as to the origin or quality of goods or services. 

For a general discussion about statements intended to mislead about everything else, see Spinsanity.

“He’s still manipulating his owner like always,” said Alan Kalter, the chairman and chief executive of Doner in Southfield, Mich., the current 9Lives agency, “but there appears to be an even deeper-bonding relationship than there was years ago, because he’s willing to do a little more” for the brand.   From “Prepare to See More

The U.S. Olympic Committee has asked the Bush campaign to pull an ad that refers to the Olympics.  The Bush campaign runs two such ads, one of which angered members of the Iraqi soccer because it referred to them without permission (see below).  Via Reuters.

If you dressed a BARBIE doll in ripped leather pants, bikini top, mask and whip, would Mattel take action (background here)?  Presenting the BARBIE AS HALLE BERRY IN CATWOMAN doll, from Mattel, $14.95 from Amazon.  Note to students in Sara’s trademark class: thank her for submitting this, and yes, she really can outdrink