U of Alabama Apologizes to Baker re Cease-and-Desist Letter; Law School Can Still Get 'A' Cookies
“Bama shortbread” is listed as a specialty of
Mary’s Cakes & Pastries.
The owner of a small bakery near the University of Alabama was elated Thursday evening about an outpouring of support she received following news that she had received a cease-and-desist letter over her use on products of certain images and colors that might arguably be considered part of the Crimson Tide brand.
The responses included an apology from the university, reports the Tuscaloosa News in a follow-up story.
“UA has talked to Ms. [Mary] Cesar and has apologized for the letter, which is not consistent with the protocol we normally follow for local vendors on trademark issues,” said Deborah M. Lane, assistant vice president for university relations, in a written statement made public Thursday afternoon.
“We have assured Ms. Cesar that we will work with her to resolve this issue quickly and amicably so that she can continue to produce pastries that bear the university’s marks. We will also make sure that everyone involved in the licensing process is fully aware of UA’s long-standing communications practices and concerns when dealing with local merchants.”
Earlier coverage:
ABAJournal.com: “Putting ‘A’ on Law School Cookies Poses Problem for Alabama Bakery, Cease-and-Desist Letter Says”
