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Tag: Trademark

  • George Gervin Files ‘Iceman’ Trademark Amid Caleb Williams Buzz

    The legendary moniker “Iceman” is at the center of a recent trademark dispute, with NBA icon George Gervin stepping in to assert his long-held claim. This comes shortly after NFL quarterback prospect Caleb Williams filed his own trademark applications for the nickname, which has also been associated with an upcoming Drake album.

    Gervin’s Longstanding Claim

    George Gervin, famously known as “Iceman” during his illustrious NBA career, particularly with the San Antonio Spurs from 1974 to 1985, has filed trademark applications for “Iceman” and “Iceman 44” (his jersey number). His legal team stated that Gervin has been using the “Iceman” moniker for goods and services since 1979. Gervin himself took to social media on March 26th, reminding the world, “there’s only one Iceman.”

    Gervin’s team filed their applications just four days after Caleb Williams’ camp submitted theirs. Jerald Barisano, president and CEO of Gervin Global Management, expressed his belief that Gervin already possessed the trademark and conveyed respect for Williams’ potential, stating, “He’s already proved greatness, and his potential upside is great. Like an ‘Iceman.’ But that name is taken… All I’m saying is: Young fella, we’ve already got one ‘Iceman.’”

    Caleb Williams’ Trademark Applications

    Caleb Williams Holding, Inc. filed four trademark applications on March 16th, covering the name “Iceman,” a related logo, and two silhouette designs. The applications aim to capitalize on the nickname for a range of products, including athletic bags, water bottles, sports equipment, eyewear, apparel like sweatshirts, T-shirts, jerseys, and hats, as well as posters and trading cards.

    The Road Ahead

    The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office is currently reviewing applications filed in early November, meaning a decision on Williams’ applications could take months. Barisano indicated that if Williams’ trademark is granted, Gervin’s team plans to contest it. They are hopeful that the patent office will recognize Gervin’s established use of the “Iceman” moniker, which is extensively documented in numerous articles and media.

    Who do you think has the stronger claim to the ‘Iceman’ nickname? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Jasmine Robinson Honored at Atlanta Black Pride

    As Atlanta Black Pride Weekend kicks off, celebrating Black LGBTQ+ identity and fostering safe spaces, a legal powerhouse is being recognized for her dedication. Attorney Jasmine A. Robinson, known for her pivotal role in safeguarding the Atlanta Black Pride Weekend trademark, will be honored at the Black Excellence Influencers Dinner on August 29.

    From Hampton to Atlanta: A Purpose-Driven Journey

    Robinson’s journey began at Hampton University, a place she describes as transformative, where she encountered a vibrant Black community that inspired her. Her values of purpose, professionalism, and community, instilled during her time at Hampton, have become the foundation of her legal career. After law school, she established a solo practice in Atlanta, focusing her expertise on serving the Black LGBTQ+ community.

    Her most significant professional achievement, she shared, was successfully defending the Atlanta Black Pride Weekend trademark against a legal challenge from a large law firm. As a solo practitioner, Robinson’s victory not only secured the organization’s legal standing but also established her as its general counsel, preserving a vital community space.

    Preserving Community Spaces and Embracing Identity

    Robinson emphasizes the critical importance of Black Pride events, arguing that they address the unique needs, challenges, and perspectives of the Black LGBTQ+ community, which are often overlooked in mainstream Pride celebrations. By making her identity a professional asset, she creates a comfortable and understanding environment for her clients, noting, “You don’t always hear about lawyers so confident in their sexuality.”

    Her philosophy, guided by chasing purpose, has led her to become a beacon of excellence. As Atlanta Black Pride Weekend unfolds with events like the Pure Heat Community Festival and advocacy panels, Robinson’s work highlights the impact of dedicated legal advocacy in preserving essential community spaces.

    Atlanta Black Pride Weekend 2025 Schedule Highlights

    The weekend features a packed schedule of events across Midtown Atlanta, with the Starling Hilton Midtown serving as the official host hotel. Highlights include Mayor Andre Dickens’ Annual Atlanta Black Pride Reception, the Black Excellence Influencers Dinner where Robinson is honored, an intergenerational town hall titled “Torchbearers: A Queer Legacy of Care,” and the Pure Heat Community Festival in Piedmont Park. A portion of the proceeds from the events will support homeless LGBTQIA+ youth and individuals affected by HIV/AIDS through The Vision Community Foundation.

    What does community advocacy mean to you? Share your thoughts on the importance of spaces like Atlanta Black Pride Weekend in the comments below!

  • Apollonia Sues Prince’s Estate Over Stage Name

    It seems the legacy of the Purple One is facing a new legal challenge, this time from a familiar face. Singer and actress Patricia Kotero, famously known as Apollonia, has filed a lawsuit against Prince’s estate. The core of the dispute? The estate’s alleged attempt to trademark the very stage name that Prince himself bestowed upon her.

    A Name Given, Now Contested

    Filed on August 19th in Los Angeles, Kotero’s complaint argues that Prince encouraged her to adopt the name ‘Apollonia’ during their collaboration in the 1980s. For over four decades, she has performed, acted, and built her brand under this iconic moniker, with no objections raised by Prince or anyone associated with him during his lifetime. She asserts that Prince himself anointed her with the name.

    The lawsuit claims the estate’s recent move to trademark ‘Apollonia’ for clothing and entertainment, while simultaneously trying to cancel her existing registrations, is an effort to rewrite history and control her professional identity. As Kotero stated in her complaint, “There is only one Apollonia,” emphasizing her ownership and the source of goods and services provided under the name.

    Prince’s Estate Responds

    Apollonia’s connection to Prince is undeniable. She rose to fame as his leading lady in the legendary film ‘Purple Rain’ and later fronted the group Apollonia 6. She has consistently used the name across her various ventures in acting, music, and business. The estate’s actions, according to Kotero, could prevent her from using the name the world knows her by.

    Prince’s estate has publicly responded to the lawsuit, dismissing it as “frivolous” and unwarranted. A statement indicated they never told her to stop using her adopted name or objected to her business activities. In fact, they claim they have “repeatedly offered her opportunities to perform at Paisley Park using this professional name.”

    Seeking a Judicial Declaration

    Kotero’s suit frames the situation as a “real, immediate, and justiciable controversy.” She is seeking a judicial declaration that confirms her ownership of the trademark, arguing that she is the one who has embodied the character and kept the name alive through the years. This legal battle could determine who truly controls the legacy of the name ‘Apollonia’.

    What do you think about this legal battle over Apollonia’s stage name? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Kris Jenner Launches New Production Company

    Kris Jenner, the ultimate ‘momager,’ is always on the move, and her latest venture is no exception! She’s officially making her mark in the production world by filing a trademark for a brand new company: Kris Jenner Productions.

    Expanding the Empire

    According to documents obtained by TMZ, this new venture is set to cover a wide range of entertainment activities. Think producing and developing TV programming, creating engaging content for the internet, and diving into other entertainment ventures that tap into pop culture trends.

    For years, Kris has been the mastermind behind the Kardashian-Jenner family’s massive success. She’s been the driving force behind 20 seasons of the iconic ‘Keeping Up With The Kardashians,’ a whopping 11 spin-off shows, and the current Hulu series, ‘The Kardashians,’ now in its 7th season. She’s even executive produced shows like Ryan Murphy’s ‘All’s Fair’.

    What’s Next for Kris Jenner Productions?

    With the launch of Kris Jenner Productions, it’s clear that Kris is gearing up to broaden her already impressive portfolio. This move signals her ambition to continue shaping the entertainment landscape and potentially explore new avenues beyond the family’s reality TV dominance.

    A Strategic Business Move

    This strategic business move allows Kris to consolidate her production efforts under one umbrella, potentially streamlining future projects and expanding her influence in the industry. It’s a testament to her business acumen and her continuous drive for innovation.

    What kind of projects do you hope to see from Kris Jenner Productions? Share your ideas in the comments below!