Categories

On January 1, 2026, a treasure trove of cultural icons from 1930 - including the original Betty Boop, Nancy Drew, and the debut of Disney’s Pluto - will enter the U.S. public domain . For businesses, this means the legal right to use, remix, and monetize these specific iterations of legendary characters and stories without paying licensing fees or royalties. While you must still navigate trademark laws , this "Class of 2026" offers a massive, cost-free opportunity for nostalg

A local business owner called me recently because she saw a website marketing a product using the exact name of her business.  Her business is a registered limited liability company in Pennsylvania and she thought that would prevent others from using her business name in the sale or marketing of products.  This is a very common misconception, and I had to deliver some unhappy news to her.  I get why she was upset – she has poured her heart and soul into building a successful