RE: MySQL.org

[Sander Pilon]

> I think all of us should send a letter to the people who appropriated 
> the MySQL.org name. In my opinion, if MySQL AB wants this domain they 
> should have the right to it. To me, it is a show of disrespect to the 
> fine folks at MySQL AB and I am disgusted that mysql.org has chosen 
> to so blatantly violate trademark rights. I hope at least that you do 
> not visit or contribute to the mysql.org Web site.
> 

Rule number one on the internet: If you have a trademark, GET THE .COM,
.NET, .ORG, .CC and .CX ASAP!!!

The fine folks at MySQL ignored that rule, and are now left with a
rotten situation. IMHO, their own fault - and the way they try to
resolve it is, IMHO, not the right way and somewhat typical for large
american corporations like MS. I never expected MySQL AB to come out so
hostile and brutal as they did. 

Clearly NuSphere depends on MySQL for (part of their) their business.
Why couldn't MySQL just write them a friendly email first, instead of
coming out with all guns blazing? 

QUOTE:
" Michael "Monty" Widenius and David Axmark, co-founders of MySQL AB and
the creators of this world-leading open source database software
commented "We normally welcome new sites that focus on the MySQLT
server, but this one violates our trademark and may lead users to
wrongfully believe it represents the people behind the MySQLT server. We
were not contacted about this website and it operates without our
authorisation. We cannot recommend anybody to visit that site." 

The obscure .ORG site claims to offer free services, but a registration
is needed for downloading the software that apparently has been copied
from the official MySQL.com website. "
--END QUOTE

"Obscure website"? "World-leading"? Bleh! 

I mean... READ IT! Just read it! It's PR-babble of the worst kind. Most
Microsoft PR releases are more friendly! The whole inclusion of Yahoo!
(not quoted, but it's later on in the statement) is a shame too, I'm
surprised they (and Jeremy) let themselves be included in this childish
conflict. I have always thought of Yahoo! and MySQL as the more friendly
companies - I guess I was off. Way off :(

This whole affair leaves a bad taste in my mouth - and it aint coming
from the MySQL.org website. 

Regards,

Sander