One of the biggest stumbling blocks for orphan brand names is the companies that drop them, and then seek to keep them away from new owners by way of lawsuits and intimidation. American business history is rife with hundreds of thousands of brand names that have been dropped, discontinued orMORE HERE

BEIJING – Do the Chinese understand brands better than the U.S.? In some ways, yes. The Chinese interest in American brands, it is hoped, will help preserve a few. But one good thing; it is China that helped save Buick. The success of General Motors’ Buick in China was soMORE HERE

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate today confirmed David Kappos as the new Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the U.S Patent and Trademark Office. U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke issued the following statement: “We are grateful to the Senate for its swift confirmation of David KapposMORE HERE

CHARLOTTESVILLE – Any person who lived in Virginia in the 1970s would know these regional bank jingles. “F&M’s free banking puts you and your checkbook … a jump ahead.” “Virginia National is the way Virginia Banks today.” The two banks merged, and became Sovran. Something was lost. Little was gained.MORE HERE