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Tebow is the Messiah, according to T-shirt lawsuit

Emmett Jones — Thu, 17 May 2012 12:54:35 +0000

Tim Tebow's faith is always at the fore-front of his life. Whether it be in a press conference, on the field, or just in day-to-day life...Tebow is a fierce believer in Jesus. But, a new lawsuit seems to portray Tim as Jesus. Tebow's attorneys at Ziffren Brittenham, LLP -- a Los Angeles based law firm -- have sent a cease-and-desist letter (via TMZ) to the t-shirt website, Cubby Tees, which claims that the website is illegally using Tebow's name for the company's own commercial gain.

"As you know, Mr. Tebow has not granted Cubby Tees any rights to use his name or likeness in any manner. By promoting, advertising and selling the Merchandise, not only has Cubby Tees used Mr. Tebow's name to promote Cubby Tees, but the Merchandise makes it appear as if Mr. Tebow's actually endorses Cubby Tees and its products...Consequently, Cubby Tee's use of his name in and in connection with the Merchandise for their Website or otherwise, without permission constitutes unfair competition, unlawful misappropriation of name and/or likeness, deceptive trade practices, and a violation of Mr. Tebow's rights of publicty and privacy..."

That all sounds like the standard legal fare for a cease-and-desist letter. "I caught you making money off of my name. Stop right now or I'll sue you, etc." The problem? The t-shirts in question don't contain Tebow's likeness or his actual name. The shirts parody the NY Jets logo and spell out "MY Jesus". Furthermore, the site has a clear disclaimer stating that Tebow in no way endorses the jersey -- a main point of contention in the-cease and-desist letter,

This fun design is not officially endorsed by New York's backup quarterback or the Son of God, but plays off the themes of Tebow's faith and his new team - borrowing from the J-E-T-S to promote J-E-S-U-S, with a fish for a football, and "MY" replacing "NY" with a color scheme that will be familiar to Jets fans. We don't take sides on the field or in the hereafter -- we just try to make fans happy, and this shirt should fit Tebow followers to a tee. It's available in green, white or grey in sizes small through 4XL. (Other colors/sizes/styles available on request) (via Cubby Tees)

If Tebow's legal team does decide to take the case to court -- Cubby Tees has already responded to the letter, and has decided to not remove the shirts -- they have a long road ahead of them. Copyright law would generally protect Cubby Tee's usage of Tebow's name and likeness in an instance where they've created an entertaining or artistic work that is transformative -- i.e. a creative element is added so that its more than just a depiction of the person's name or likeness. A parody t-shirt would seemingly fit that description. On top of that defense, Tebow's team may have quite a tough time proving that Tebow's name or likeness is even being utilized in the first place. To note, Cubby Tees also has parodied t-shirts of other sports superstars including the Detroit Tigers' Prince Fielder and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim's Albert Pujols. To the best of my knowledge, they have not sent a cease-and-desist to Cubby Tees. hat tip to TerezOwens and TMZ.

San Franciso Plans to Take Back The Warriors

Travis_Schluter — Wed, 16 May 2012 16:54:42 +0000

The Golden State Warriors have been in the press the last few days. Reports indicate that city leaders in San Francisco are trying to seduce the NBA team to rejoin the Bay City. Mayor Ed Lee told Warriors executives that they would cater to their every need in hopes to bring the team to San Fran. in time for the first 2017 tip off. There are also talks of a new stadium that will be built if the team decides to return to its roots. This would bring hundreds of jobs to the area and boost city revenue, something San Francisco residents are ecstatic about. However Oakland mayor Jean Quan is not going to sit idly by while his city’s team is stolen out from under him. Quan sent the Warriors a letter stating that the city is proud to have the Golden State Warriors and Oakland is committed to keeping them in the East Bay. San Francisco leaders are confident they can woo the team back within the next five years. I guess all we can do is wait and see.

Panel approves USC as LA Coliseum’s new lease-holder

Emmett Jones — Wed, 16 May 2012 12:29:14 +0000

According to an LA Times report, USC is on the cusp on taking over control of the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The Coliseum, which has been in dire financial straits for a few years, will now be controlled by USC, thanks to an 8-1 vote in favor of the move by the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum Commission. The Coliseum has been in the hands of the public, or at least public officials, for the last 88 years. Under the terms of the agreement, USC would be given a new lease and the right to control the Coliseum and its revenue, until 2054, when the Coliseum Commission is set to dissolve and have all of its assets transferred to the state of California. Industry experts, which placed the value of the stadium at somewhere in between $240 and $400 million, in 2005, have noted that the lease essentially gives USC all of the benefits of a stadium, without any of the responsibilities that accompany stadium ownership. (Ed. -- Except for a $1 million dollar annual rent payment to the state). Ever quick to jump on the fortuitous opportunity, USC plans on putting $70 million dollars worth of upgrades into the stadium, to help turn it into a world-class college facility. The decision to grant the lease to USC was surrounded by controversy in part because many feel that USC is receiving something for nothing

"Most of it is exclusively to benefit the university," said Parks, who is also an L.A. City Councilman. "We should have negotiated this with more interest to the community, and in the interest of the taxpayers."

That being said, the Coliseum is so cash-strapped -- its cash reserves will dwindle below $20,000 by the end of June -- that some wonder if the panel simply ran out of options. As an interesting aside, there is an NFL provision written into USC's lease agreement -- If needed, an NFL team will be allowed to use the stadium if necessary, with all gate-revenue going to USC. A good deal, indeed.

Danica Patrick Signs with Coca Cola

Travis_Schluter — Fri, 11 May 2012 02:14:24 +0000

Coca- Cola gains another top NASCAR driver. Danica Patrick announced today that she has signed a multi-year endorsement contract with Coca-Cola. Danica will begin supporting Coke Zero at Charlotte Motor Speedway and Daytona International Speedway with the logo on her Chevrolet and on her fire suit. She will also promote the movie “Battleship” which Coke Zero is endorsing at this time. "Joining the Coca-Cola Racing Family is one of the really cool things that's happened so far in my career," Patrick said. "I'm a Coke Zero drinker and fan, so with this partnership, I really get to have it all. I'm really excited about working with Coke Zero for a lot of reasons, but the idea of having my image at retail stores next to guys like Tony Stewart and Ryan Newman and the rest of the Coca-Cola Racing Family is amazing."(via press release) Sharon Byers, Coca-Cola's senior vice president for sports and entertainment, seemed very excited to have Patrick on board when she spoke with USA Today. “She's an extremely appealing figure for Coke Zero because she basically represents everything the brand does. It's one of our biggest growing brands. Her appeal to young adult men is the exact consumer base that we want to connect.” Sharon went on to state “She's just a very interesting person. She's a fierce competitor. She's into pop culture. She loves the blend of sports and entertainment. All of that is very attractive to us when we look at personalities that will represent one of our brands.” Danica may have a pretty face and appeal to the masses, however she will need to start performing better on the track in order to keep her new endorsement deal.

An MVP Appetite

Travis_Schluter — Tue, 08 May 2012 20:38:18 +0000

Two of Wisconsin’s MVP’s will be teaming up to support SURG restaurant group in Oak Creek. Aaron Rodgers, Quarterback for the Green Bay Packers; and Ryan Braun, Outfielder for Milwaukee Brewers have recently signed licensing agreements to support the new joint establishment called 8*twelve. 8*twelve is an MVP grill located on W. Blue Mound Road in Brookfield, Milwaukee. They will serve a variety of American favorites, cooked on an open fire wood grill. Who says these guys only talk about sports? Rodgers and Braun have become quite good friends; swapping recipes during the Brewers spring training. They are both excited for the late June Grand Opening of 8*twelve and will both be making several appearances at the restaurant. The group has also tossed around the idea of opening more restaurants in possibly Madison or in the Fox Valley depending on the success of Brookfield. For more information on 8*twelve restaurants and dates of star appearances, you can visit their Facebook page. Click Here!

Vikings Stadium bill moves to Senate

Emmett Jones — Tue, 08 May 2012 12:18:15 +0000

So...you're saying there's a chance? Late Monday an amended Vikings stadium bill was passed by the Minnesota House of Representatives by a 73-58 margin. The bill will now move to the Senate and a probable vote on Tuesday. The amended bill, much to the chagrin of the Vikings, increased the cost covered by the Vikings by $105 million dollars. Under the amended bill, the Vikings would now cover $532 million (54.5%) of the proposed $975 million dollar project, with the city picking up the rest of the tab through a gambling revenue and by redirecting a hospitality tax. The Vikings have been seeking a new stadium to replace the now 30 year old Metrodome for years, but lawmakers seemingly never felt pressed on the matter until the Metrodome lease expired. The Vikings will play the 2012-13 season in the Metrodome, but are free to leave after the season. Los Angeles has already been mentioned as a potential landing spot, if the team doesn't stay in Minnesota.

"Whatever you think of this bill, this is our one chance," said Rep. John Kriesel, R-Cottage Grove. "This bill works, it's been fine-tuned and it will build a stadium." (via AJC)

If the Senate does approve the bill as amended, the amended bill will go back before a joint conference committee that would then create a single bill for approval before having that bill sent to Governor Mark Dayton. Although its currently up in the air as to what the Senate will do regarding the $105 million dollar amendment and if the Vikings are willing to absorb the increased cost. But, at least for now, there is a cautious optimism in the state of Minnesota.

The Big East Makes Big Changes

Travis_Schluter — Mon, 07 May 2012 20:47:21 +0000

After several weeks of rumor Big East Commissioner John Marinatto has resigned. The Big East conference announced his resignation early Monday morning. Marinatto made a large push before he resigned to expand the conference and stabilize it for the long haul. "Our recent expansion efforts have stabilized the conference for the long term, and we are likewise well positioned for our very important upcoming television negotiations," Marinatto said in the news release. "As a result, I felt this was the right time to step aside and to let someone else lead us through the next chapter of our evolution." Later the TV deal Marinatto was hoping to capture was voted down 12-4. Marinatto had been commissioner since July 2009 taking over for Mike Tranghese. Since Marinatto took over, the conference has lost Pittsburgh, Syracuse and West Virginia; an unacceptable loss by the Conference standards. Cbssports.com reported that Marinatto was asked to resign Sunday night. "You're never surprised in our business about things, but I would be less than honest to say I saw this coming," said Bill Bradshaw, Temple's athletic director. "Yes, in our business you're never surprised. But John's a first-class individual, straightforward. A good man. High integrity. A nice person. Whenever someone resigns, it's something you reflect." The Big East presidents have been pushing for a new leader with a different vision. Currently there is no announced permanent replacement; however Joseph Baily, a recruiting firm executive will be filling the Commissioner roll in Marinatto’s absence. "Joe is a proven leader who will do a terrific job guiding the conference through this time of transition," said Judy Genshaft, South Florida president and chair of the Big East, in the statement. "His experience as a manager and his knowledge of the sports industry make Joe uniquely qualified." The Conference has its eyes on someone who has a deep understanding of television contracts. Nick Carparelli, the Big East's senior associate commissioner, and Tim Pernetti, Rutgers athletics director are the most notable candidates to take over the job long term. With major changes in the BCS coming in the next season, it is uncertain whether The Big East will remain a top conference. While they are currently in negotiations for a significant bump in television revenue, it is uncertain how large the boost will actually be with the new changes. The Big East will begin spring meetings May 21 in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. hopefully to begin the rebuilding process this conference needs to regain its stature as a top competitor in the BCS.

The X Games Expand

Travis_Schluter — Wed, 02 May 2012 22:53:11 +0000

Tuesday morning ESPN announced the X Games will have three new host cities in 2013. Barcelona, Spain; Munich, Germany; and Foz do Iguacu, Brazil will be added to the list of current hosts Aspen, Colorado; Tignes, France; and Los Angeles, California. The X Games schedule will begin in January and last through August, having four summer events and two in the winter.

Senior Vice President of programming and X Games, Scott Guglielmino met with ESPN reporters Tuesday afternoon.

"Action sports are a collection of activities that we think travels really well around the world. The reality of what we're doing here is we've created this huge stage for action-sports athletes, and we're taking that global now. We're providing an even larger platform for them to participate in and perform at, and grow themselves."

Latin America has rich history and houses one of the most enthusiastic action-sports cultures in the world. The three new hosts for the games were hand picked out of nine contestants.

"A lot of our decision on which cities to select was based on their action-sports culture and our point of view on how strong it was," Guglielmino said.

Munich and Barcelona have already staged Summer Olympic Games and are more than equipped to spotlight the high paced action of the X Games. The lesser-known city of Foz do Iguaçu located on the Brazil-Argentinian border has a splendid action-sports community. Surrounded by natural parks and hundred foot waterfalls, this backdrop to the X Games will be something fans of the sport have never experienced.

Along with the new venues; music, style, and overall film elements of the games will be receiving a complete and total revamp.

"We call it a transformation from an action-sports competition brand into an action-sports lifestyle brand with relevance to contemporary youth around the world," Guglielmino said. He boasted the uniqueness of each city and the upgrade in overall flavor they will bring to the X Games brand.

X Games 2013 Schedule

Jan. 24-27: Aspen, Colo. March 20-22: Tignes, France April 18-21: Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil May 9-12: Barcelona, Spain June 27-30: Munich, Germany Aug. 1-4: Los Angeles

Kate Upton. Now on a trading card.

Emmett Jones — Wed, 02 May 2012 13:25:03 +0000

Kate Upton. Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover Model. Eye-Candy for Skull Candy headphones. Master of the Cat Daddy. And the owner of the hearts and minds of nearly every man on the planet. Oh, did I mention she's on a trading card as well? In a move that will reduce many sports bloggers to 11 year old kids trading snacks during lunch time, Kate Upton has been chosen as one of the non-sports inclusions in Topps' 7th edition of Allen & Ginter's World Champions baseball card set. The 350-card base set, which will arrive in July, will feature a myriad of baseball stars from today and yesterday, special 'mini' insert cards, and framed 'Relic' cards of MLB legends. Also included, are autographed cards of famous baseball players (Stan Musial, Albert Pujols, Willie Mays) and numerous non-baseball celebs including Upton along with other notable celebrities including Bobby Knight, Erin Andrews and Arnold Palmer. Each eight-card pack will contain an insert card of some kind which will give collectors the chance to receive an autographed card or one of the aforementioned Relic or Mini cards. Also included in the sets are "Lepidoptery" cards -- a redemption card which is sent in and redeemed for a card with a dead butterfly mounted inside of it. So, to recap. Kate Upton. Dead Butterflies. And Stan Musial Autographs. Check. Topps Allen & Ginter's World Champions will be released the week of July 11th. Hobby boxes will include 24 packs of 8 eight cards a piece, and will retail for $5 a pack.

Nike designer adds insensitive insult to Rose injury

Emmett Jones — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 12:56:21 +0000

In this current age of "instant-media", you'd think people would know better by now. Think before you tweet. Especially since the internet doesn't have a delete button. Nike shoe designer Jason Petrie caused a mini-firestorm on twitter over the weekend, when he tweeted the following after the knee injury to Chicago Bulls superstar Derrick Rose, [blackbirdpie url="https://twitter.com/#!/sevenzro1/status/196363865188085760"] The first half of that tweet is in reference to Miami Heat superstar Lebron James. Petrie and other Nike designers designed Lebron's Elite 9 shoe which he wore during the Heat's playoff game on Saturday. "Pooh" is a nickname for Rose, which was given to him by his grandmother. Rose signed a reported $260M endorsement deal with Adidas in February. Clear insensitivity aside -- Petrie followed up his tweet with well-wishes for Rose, only after tweeting a delightful rant of since deleted "me against the world/I hate everyone who disagrees with me" tweets -- his actions once again bring to light how easily brands can be effected, either positively or negatively, by the world of "instant-media". Surely, Nike is in no danger of shutting down tomorrow -- its had a monopoly in the basketball shoe market for years now -- but if even one person begins to question Nike's integrity or the quality of their employees and decides to base their purchases off of Petrie's ill-conceived tweets, then its clearly to the company's detriment. Losing a repeat customer or even failing to sway a fringe customer is never good for business, regardless of the size of your profit margins. That being said, Nike went into PR mode on Sunday, issuing this statement,

"As a brand that is passionate about sport, we recognize the intense level of play that every athlete has engaged in during this basketball season and respect the dedication it takes to compete. One of our basketball footwear designers posted comments online that we feel are inappropriate, and he has since apologized. We wish anyone who is injured a speedy recovery."

In the age of Twitter, 140 characters can go a long way. Issuing a Sunday press release about a Saturday night tweet from a shoe designer, for example...its a little out of the ordinary. Apparently Nike, and other companies and sports teams who have personalities engaged in new media formats are continuing to suffer through the growing pains that accompany the usage of new media.