2021-04-15 13:31:59 -05:00

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Tom Jennings
1:125/111
Box 77731
San Francisco CA
94107 USA
Last February I withdrew my permission, in writing, from the<68>
group previously known as "IFNA" to use my trademarks, "Fido",<2C>
"FidoNet" and the dog-with-diskette drawing, after the network<72>
members voted that IFNA did not represent their desires.
Apparently some of the people that were in "IFNA" at that time is<69>
continuing to use the trademarks, and further, to claim that they<65>
represent the network and to have privy access to the nodelist,<2C>
and are "signing up" network members, claiming that they are the<68>
"International FidoNet Association".
Let's make a few things clear: One, IFNA is legally required to<74>
remove the registered trademark "Fido" and "FidoNet" from their<69>
name, and in all other instances. Two, they do not represent the<68>
network members at large. Three, to the best of my knowledge,<2C>
entry into the nodelist is monetarily free, as long as you meet<65>
the minimal technical requirements.
* * *
This network of ours is as decentralized as humanly possible.<2E>
There is no one organization "in charge", no matter who may imply<6C>
what. The *C structure is as close as we get, and even they are<72>
volunteers with generally localized powers and responsibilities.<2E>
Anyone implying otherwise is trying to mislead you.
Bear with me a minute.
I have fought to keep some of the basic precepts of this network<72>
intact -- decentralization, local control, responsibility in the<68>
hands of the sysops in the net.
"Fido", "FidoNet" and the dog-with-diskette are registered U.S.<2E>
trademarks of Tom Jennings, address above. Individuals and<6E>
organizations that wish to use these trademarks (such as<61>
newsletters, sysop organizations, etc) must request permission<6F>
from me first.
I know that sounds awfully harsh and formal -- but in reality,<2C>
nearly all of the requests I have received have been well within<69>
the spirit and the letter of how our network operates, and<6E>
permission has been granted.
I grant permission taking into account only the benefit of the<68>
FidoNet network at large -- even at my own personal expense. My<4D>
only desire is to see the FidoNet network continue to allow and<6E>
encourage free communication between people all over the planet.