Dump Runs, Etc

I’ve used John for several small jobs over the past few years. He returns calls promptly. He’s reasonably priced and reliable. He shows up on time and is always friendly. I’ll continue to rely on him going forward.

I got an unsolicited call from the owner on July 15^th, so indeed, I had a direct experience with Dump Runs, Etc.
So, why would he call me, you ask? GREAT question!
You see, John the owner found several of my craigslist ads, ones that were MORE THAN A MONTH OLD, and happened to include the phrase «Dump Runs, Etc.» Even though it was plainly obvious that my use of the term was purely descriptive, and not some sort of diabolical attempt to usurp the name of his business for my personal gain. It’s a crystal clear example of the «Fair Use» exception for common words and phrases as it applies to Trademark Law.
Despite the undeniable truth that he has zero legal ground to stand on, he actually called me to demand that I take the ads down, or I’d be HEARING FROM HIS LAWYER, claiming that he’s won two cases of this nature in the past!
*Falls off couch in unbearable fit of condescending laughter*
I don’t think I’ve ever been subjected to a greater waste of time over a more frivolous matter in MY ENTIRE LIFE, and that’s not a hyperbolic statement. The trademark consists of a common phrase, it was used in the context of a larger sentence, and we don’t even operate in the same geographical area! It would be plainly obvious to our legal system that this does not constitute trademark infringement.
Despite all this, I took down the ads anyway, because I feel sorry for people like John, the owner of his precious trademark. It seems his time is better spent making legal threats against craigslisters who don’t even compete with him, rather than recruiting customers, building business relationships, and strengthening his brand. But what do I know? After all, this is America, where spilling hot coffee on yourself can be cashed in for a cool million bucks!
I think a one-​star review is fair for a business that engages in this kind of behavior.
[PS, for legal purposes — All of the above are true statements, or my personal opinions, both of which are guaranteed by the first amendment right to free speech. To the best of my knowledge, nothing written in this post is in any way libelous or deceptive. Thanks for reading!]

John is a hard working fair businessman. He calls back within a few minutes. He quoted a big job and even though it took a lot longer and was more difficult than he originally anticipated he never complained and honored his price. He personally did the work… I would not hesitate to use him again.