The well-known Dervaes Family of California have been at the forefront of sustainability measures and showing people how to grow more in less space. Apparently all of that attention has gone to their collective heads as they have trademarked several phrases that are commonly used throughout the gardening and sustainability industry both by hobbyists and professional writers. What follows are a few direct quotes from the infamous “cease and desist” letter sent by the Dervaes Family to bloggers who were – according to the Dervaes Family – impinging on their trademarked property by using the phrase “urban homestead”. My response to each quote follows:
“We have now secured registered trademarks for certain unique names and images.”
How is “urban homestead” a unique name and on what basis do you claim origination and ownership of said phrase?
“By protecting our intellectual property we are better able to ensure that our work is presented accurately and contributes to our sustainable living projects and educational initiatives.”
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URBAN HOMESTEAD®
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URBAN HOMESTEADING®
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PATH TO FREEDOM®
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GROW THE FUTURE®
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HOMEGROWN REVOLUTION®
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FREEDOM GARDENS®
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LITTLE HOMESTEAD IN THE CITY®
How is someone else using the phrase “urban homestead” or “urban homesteading” in any way impinging upon your sustainable living projects or educational initiatives?
You did not create this way of life, Dervaes Family. You merely did it and drew attention to that fact. It has all been done before. Again: your “ideas” are not original. Neither is your obvious grab for the spotlight.
“If your use of one of these phrases is not to specifically identify products or services from the Dervaes Institute, then it would be proper to use generic terms to replace the registered trademark you are using.”
Oh, so if I’ don’t give a damn about you or your self-important posturing, then I can say urban homestead all day long without a registered trademark symbol? Imagine that.
Thank you in advance for respecting our legally protected intellectual property rights. If you have been supportive of our ten-year online work in the past, we appreciate very much your continued support.
Yes, I had been supportive of the Dervaes family’s work for many years. No, I will not support it in any fashion going forward. With the backlash in the past 24 hours they are becoming more aware of just how ridiculous their actions have been. They are learning that you do not step on the toes of the people who made you what you are and expect to not hear them scream.
We will not let this go, Dervaes Family. Just because you were leaders does not mean that leaders cannot and should not fall when they lose their frakking minds.
If you would like more information on what the Dervaes family is up to, here is how to contact them:
“If you have any questions regarding the use of Dervaes materials or trademarks, please contact us at (626) 795-8400. We would be glad to provide you with more details.”
See also: Trademarks, Patents & Thieves, OH MY!
Quotes above taken from this source.
