cthree,

I believe its just as simple as "logos and trademarks owned by American Honda" and not about someone typing the "word" S 2 0 0 0 within a thread, etc. Just about the images/references both on the Homepage as well as banner/top areas/images. If it is alright to suggest (and others have I gather from other related threads), you are in-and-out the door on this issue as soon as you change the site's images/logos to strictly "s2ki".

I for one promote this site 100% based on that very phrase..."s2ki.com"...when I speak to new owners I meet during my travels, etc. Saying "S2000 International" is both a mouthful, and does not get the new owner any closer to the knowing the website's address, etc. This site IS www.s2ki.com and I would think that with only a little editing effort on your part this whole issue could quickly be swept away. Even looking at the great wall calendar that was recently published...as far as images go...you have LOADS of choices from private owners that would be willing to let you use their image to represent this terrific site (and yet be able to remedy Honda's copyright concerns lickity-split).

And if that weren't enough (and you've seen this before), I'd offer my suggestion because it would make even more valid my rolling billboard for this site:







...just my two pennies...

- Dave

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by mav
[B]

Maybe Erik or someone can write a formal letter to Honda, acknowledging this, explaining our position as owners and S2000 enthusiasts to open up a conversation of sorts.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Da Hapa
[B]

This is fantastic advice.

AHMC is a friend and not a foe.

 

Well said w1ngman, I think you are right on this one. I myself always refer to the site as s2ki.com and tell others that are researching S2000's to visit THIS site. IMO it's the best there is. I'll be ready to do what it takes to keep it going. Like GChambers stated earlier, I know that I am still a guest, but I will be happy to donate if need be. I couldn't imagine what work would be like without THIS site!!!!

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Da Hapa
[B]

This is fantastic advice.

AHMC is a friend and not a foe.

 

The question I would have is did you have written permission from AHM for use of their artwork, brochure photos, and the S2000 logo/font?

On the login page for example, there are 2 images from a 2003 S2000 dealer brochure: the Speedometer and engine bay view.

The cutout of the F20C engine is a Honda owned artwork as see on page 67 of the S2000 book by D. Carney.

The START ENGINE Button most likely is property of Honda (silver rim, red button white font) -- used for navigation of this site.

The S2000 Intl. logo incorporates the "likeness" or font of the S2000 logo on the cars.

Use of just the images WITHOUT written permission from Honda would put you in an actionable position.

People here seem to purport the just typing "S2000" or "Honda" and discussions would be the impetus of the C&D. I just don't think that is the case.

And another thing... Ending a letter "Very Truly Yours," seems so
unsuitable

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by ralper
[B]I'm not sure that AHM is friend or foe, but we need to work with them.

 

If I may further opine on this matter...

Two aspects that you must also consider (if you haven't already) are:

1."Interruption of services" if THIS SITE is taken down for ANY period of time to either meet the statutes of AHM or worse a complete shut down.

a.) There are no disclaimers for PAYING members (at least I did not see any) if services they pay for is interrupted or discontinued.

b.) There are no disclaimers for sponsors if such services are cut off or interrupted Companies that use S2ki.com as a "Hub" for the sliver of this niche market can take severe hits in sales from lack of exposure to their core audience they have catered to

This further extends liability if such events occur. Terms of services should be added in the future regardless of how this plays out.

2. There may be repercussions from "ill will" going tit for tat with any drawn out issues with AHM from current or future sponsors (I am not one of these, I'm just looking at the larger picture). Any maligned relationship with the AHM may make some companies reconsider their advertising dollars.

If you haven't already contact a lawyer whose bailiwick is in such manners, not a general practice. If one hasn't already been referred, contact a respected larger firm -- they tend to have many people specialize. Don't personally handle a litigious matter as this.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by lucid
[B]The question I would have is did you have written permission from AHM for use of their artwork, brochure photos, and the S2000 logo/font?

 

Cthree... my brother belonged to this one site called benzsport.com, MBNA sent them recently a legal notice similar to what you received only not so nice. Since then, benzsport.com has changed their site to bnzsport.com. IMHO I think any letter, petition, conversation with Honda will be futile. Sorry I can't offer any positive suggestions only what I've seen similar to our situation here!

Ultimately it's all about money and Honda wants some! Perhaps S2ki.com could partner with Honda.com??? Offer free Honda advertisements and positive writeups about the car???