Yenko brand reborn?

[1967Z28]

Yenko brand reborn? (http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2009/10/report-yenko-brand-reborn-with-new-models-on-the-way.html)

Is this for real? How's this going to impact the Clary Yenko project?

-Jon

[Les Quam]

Unless they purchased the Yenko name rights from the surviving Yenko family all GMCI owns is a right to use a trademark that has never been challenged by the rightful owners of the Yenko name that being the Yenko family.

[66 L78 ragtop]

He states that he has purchased the name and brand...

This will not only affect the Yenko project, but this site as well...

Sounds like the beginning of a legal fiasco

[TXSS]

A search of the US Patent & Trademark Office does not show that the Yenko family owns the name or ever registered the name as a trademark. It looks like Classic Camaros Inc., same address as Classic Industries actually owns the name and has assigned it to General Marketing Capital, Inc. in 2008. Interesting

Trade Mark Search (http://tess2.uspto.gov/bin/gate.exe?f=searchss&state=4007:kng4ne.1.1)

Image List (http://tess2.uspto.gov/bin/gate.exe?f=brws_img&state=4007:kng4ne.2.1&p_L=100& p_toc=brws_img)

With any trademark, you use it and keep others from using it or you lose it. Hope that's not the case here.

[motionwannabe]

YIKES!!!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shocked.gif THIS COULD GET UGLY http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[Les Quam]

The surviving Yenko family members have never filed to obtain a trademark on the Yenko name. That does not mean they have waived their ownership rights to their name. We don't all have to run down and obtain a trademark on our names to prevent others from using it.

However once a trademark is granted it is a tangible property right until someone in this case the surviving Yenko family members go to court and enforce their inherent property rights which will supercede the present trademark rights owned by GMCI.

The Yenko family name is owned by the Yenko family and passed to Don Yenko's heirs upon his death. Until the Yenko heirs lawyer up people will continue to profit off Don Yenko's legacy.

All of which assumes that GMCI or the previous trademark owner hasn't already obtained the rights from the Yenko heirs? But as of September 2009 they had not.

[Les Quam]

It should be noted that the sYc net folks who operate this sight have the written permission from the Yenko heirs to use the Yenko name in regard to this site and the registry. I have seen the agreement and as far as I know it is the only time the Yenko family has agreed to allow anyone to use their fathers name. That agreement will supercede any efforts GMCI makes to prevent this site from going forward. Whether or not lawyers are needed to enforce their written permission is another matter. Hopefully that won't be necessary.

[sYc]

All I can say for now, the sYc is doing business as usual, including putting the finishing touches on YS-1001, the first 2010 Yenko/SC Camaro.

The club's next event will be MCACN in Nov., and we are working with Bob and Vicki to make the sYc display area(s) extra special.

[bashton]

The club's next event will be MCACN in Nov., and we are working with Bob and Vicki to make the sYc display area(s) extra special.

[/ QUOTE ]

And that, my friends, is an undertatement! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Bashton
MCACN Managing Member

[ORIGLS6]

[ QUOTE ]
The club's next event will be MCACN in Nov., and we are working with Bob and Vicki to make the sYc display area(s) extra special.

[/ QUOTE ]


I know this ain't McDonalds but, ................."I'm Lovin It!" http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[motionwannabe]

WOW!!!!! GMCI has some balls to try and trademark the name after the SYC and the Clarys and members are the ones that put the info out there for everyone for years.
I've noticed that this hobby the past few years has unfortunately acquired a BUNCH of dirty players.
I understand supply and demand but to completely undermind someone and do them like GMCI has done the SYC is just WRONG.
Perhaps a big nasty lawsuit isnt such a bad thing as it would send a message to people that like to play these games that the HONEST hobbyists arent screwing around anymore and are tired or doing all the work for years and getting the shaft in the end.
Whats next GMCI introduces the lauch of their Baldwin Motion brand??? I know Joel wouldnt have a problem taking legal action. Maybe the Clarys and the YENKO heirs should consider the same. Unless theres a hidden agenda somewhere that the SYC isnt aware of. Just my opinion http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[x Baldwin Motion]

[ QUOTE ]
.....
Whats next GMCI introduces the launch of their Baldwin Motion brand???.... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif...

[/ QUOTE ]

I am sure you must have seen the new (2005) BaldwinMotion (http://officialbaldwinmotion.com/home.htm) with Joel's blessing.

[motionwannabe]

Yes, I seen the concept for that car. I was being sarcastic about Motion.

[Norm reynolds]

First off I do not think this is legal. Remember the knuckle head from Canada
Second we all can stop this in its tracks. If no one supported them and did NOT even recognize them as being Yenkos then I drought they would last to long . It has to made clear that any car they try to build is NOT a yenko
THIS IS WORNG at so many levels I do not know where to began.
AS for me they are nothing more fakes Someone trying to make a quick buck using
The Yenko name. I have been a judge in many car shows this year, Me if I saw one
I would have NO problem classing them AS FAKES
In the classic car world once a car is branded a fake it kills it.
And lastly I do think the way business has been lately that they will end up losing more money than made

[quick-bowtie]

Come on now it says the guy owned a Yenko at one time so that must make him legit.. lol

I wouldnt be posting all the new items/pictures going into these cars if you dont want the competition stealing idea's. JMO

[Charley Lillard]

The "Guy" is Jeff Leonard. Jeff is Classic Industries. That huge color Camaro parts catalog is Classic Industries. I think they still have the 68 Yenko.

[resto4u]

I haven't seen a car built by a dead guy, yet worthy of me willing to purchase. They are only real,and original once.

[TXSS]

I also found it interesting wile browsing the Patent & Trademark Office web site (I have a low threshold of entertainment) that GM has a Trademark application pending for the word "COPO". On 11/03/2006 GM filed an application for "Intent To Use" the word "COPO". If you know you want to use a word in the future as a trademark but are not currently using it you file an "Intent To Use" application. You also have to tell the P&TO what you intend to use the trademark for. GM has been given a third extension of time to file a "statement of use". I guess they don't what anybody to know how they plan on using the word COPO or maybe they don't know yet.

[1970Bluel78]

[ QUOTE ]
I haven't seen a car built by a dead guy, yet worthy of me willing to purchase. They are only real,and original once.

[/ QUOTE ]

100% correct Sir ! That would include the SYC effort as well as the GMCI car or anybody else who thinks a 2010 car is a Yenko

[motionwannabe]

How much would anyone like to bet that in the next few years GM unveils a new COPO CAMARO. That would be my guess if they are filing for a trademark or patent of the word

[WILMASBOYL78]

[ QUOTE ]
I haven't seen a car built by a dead guy, yet worthy of me willing to purchase. They are only real,and original once.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well said....

[showyourauto]

Carroll isn't dead, yet. Do you even think that the new Shelbys have the street credit of the originals?

[Les Quam]

I think the new 725 HP Shelby Supersnakes and several other Mustangs converted at the Shelby factory have plenty of street cred. I own a 65 GT 350, a 67 GT 500, a 69 GT 500 and two Supersnakes. The new ones are every bit as signficant as the old ones and a whole lot faster too.

[sYc]

A lot of the argument I am hearing in regards to new Yenkos is the fact Don Yenko is dead, thus there cannot be another Yenko, while there can be more Motion cars and Shelbys, as Josen Rosen and Carrol Shelby are alive and kicking, and even though they are not "hands on" involved in their projects, they have endorsed the projects, and most likely were involved in the design as well.

My question is this, if Don's daughter(s), who actually worked at the dealership and were the heirs to Yenko Sportscars, INC, were to become involved in a Yenko project similar to what Joel and Carrol are doing, would it then be a Yenko?

[markjohnson]

Some would argue that not if their name changed after marriage. Is the Yenko name still around or has it been "married off"? Any sons? I really don't think the daughters had an open line of communication with Vince Piggins like their father did so that takes a lot of mystique away from the idea of a "Little Susie Yenko Camaro".

[sYc]

Hum..so if married, daughters cannot continue the family business/traditionlegacy, but sons can? I bet Valerie (Harrell) Vanderwoude and Connie (Gibb) ?, among other daughters of famous people will love to hear that.

Until just recently, when they sold their interest in Yenko Honda, the daughters had been very involved in the business side of things, taking over for Don following his untimely death in 1987.

And though I have yet to meet Terri, I do know that Lynn shares her dad's passion for cars.

[Steve Shauger]

For the people who don't want a new Yenko, it's simple don't buy one. The Yenko family is behind the project that Tom and his group are doing. That is validation enough for me.

[Les Quam]

Shelby is still reasonably hands on with his cars. When in town he takes them home and drives them and tells his guys what he wants done when he brings them back. The mods on these new cars are for the most part dreamed up by him. In fact he is the one that mandates the HP levels and he helped think up the new Shelby/Prudomme drag car. Shelby isn't finsihed yet he has instructed his guys to build some mind blowing stuff that is being developed right now.

I don't know how much time he spent turning wrenches back in the day as opposed to brainstorming and marketing? Maybe Colin call shed some light on this? Colin's new Shelby book is out and it's thoroughness is a stunner. Never been another Shelby book like this one.

[Les Quam]

And yes I think the surviving Yenko family involvement in a new Yenko is huge because it gives a stamp of approval and sets a standard that no one else on earth can give. When Don's daughter a former employee says my dad would have loved this new car or this is what he would have built how do you top that? In other words if a tribute car is built with the input of the family that is a special, very personal tribute IMHO.

[bkhpah]

If you are not interested in such a car, simply do not own one. It was that way in the glory days as well. The numbers of Yenko cars sold was certainly not staggering by today's standard. Nowhere have I seen that it states Don Yenko is involved, it has always been a tribute. I don't think you discount the family's input here. The market will set the number built, and I imagine it will be very low. I would love to have seen some of you tell Donna Mae that she was ONLY a girl..BKH

[motionwannabe]

My arguement is simply that GMCI shouldnt be the ones doing it.If the SYC and the Clarys are doing it thats fine because of all the site and that particular family has done to keep the YENKO flame alive. Did Jeff Leonard start a YENKO site and bring owners of vegas,camaros,novas vettes chevelles together and help them to track down the info on their cars? My guess is NO. If this is going to be done it should be done by those who love the car and arent doing it to simply reap profits. I believe the Clarys and the SYC would do it for their passion of YENKO. Sure they will make money but its not their sole intent.

[1970Bluel78]

[ QUOTE ]
A lot of the argument I am hearing in regards to new Yenkos is the fact Don Yenko is dead, thus there cannot be another Yenko, while there can be more Motion cars and Shelbys, as Josen Rosen and Carrol Shelby are alive and kicking, and even though they are not "hands on" involved in their projects, they have endorsed the projects, and most likely were involved in the design as well.

My question is this, if Don's daughter(s), who actually worked at the dealership and were the heirs to Yenko Sportscars, INC, were to become involved in a Yenko project similar to what Joel and Carrol are doing, would it then be a Yenko?

[/ QUOTE ]


Why not include the guy that washed the floors or maybe the person that answered the phone there. Don WAS yenko...Period. So to answer your ?.....NO

[1970Bluel78]

[ QUOTE ]
For the people who don't want a new Yenko, it's simple don't buy one. The Yenko family is behind the project that Tom and his group are doing. That is validation enough for me.

[/ QUOTE ]

If there was a real yenko from Don being offered, I would think many would buy them, but that can never happen. If you are " validated " from this endevor By all meands buy the car and enjoy same http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif

[Les Quam]

The only reason I own two Yenko's (aside from Colin finding them for me) is because of this site and the registry of VIN numbers and the wealth of information long time members have about these old cars.

Same for Shelby's without the registry in my opinion they would not have the following they do today so if anyone is going to be involved in a Yenko tribute car it should be the guys that have put in the years to preserve the authenticity and history.

Not to mention the fact they are the only ones to my knowledge who had the respect for Don Yenko to actually ask his surviving Yenko family members for permission to use the Yenko name as opposed to running down and obtaining a trade name and trade mark without the permission of the rightful owners of the Yenko name that being Don's heirs.

[Kim_Howie]

If you don't have a dog in the fight than leave it alone. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif

[sYc]

[quote Why not include the guy that washed the floors or maybe the person that answered the phone there. Don WAS yenko...Period. So to answer your ?.....NO

[/ QUOTE ]

If only one person can be "Yenko" then no doubt it would be the person who had the vision to open the original Yenko Chevrolet dealership, remaining a figure head until Yenko Chevrolet was sold, was willing to sign on the doted line for 100 1966 Corvairs, sign another agreement with GM to purchase 500 COPO cars in 1969, and in 1973 relocated to a new, state of the art ($$$) facility in nearby McMurray, etc. That person? Frank Yenko, with the support of wife Martha.


Don, their only son, simply followed in his parent's footsteps, adding his vision to the mix, same as his daughters, maybe grandchildren, are wanting to do, same as Bill Thomas, Joel Rosen's family, Nancy and Connie Gibb, Valerie Harrell and others are doing.

[black69]

It will be interesting how much different the new yenko stripes look vs what hennesy has done on their camaros (they look same).

I feel if the new 'yenkos' do not involve GM and some form of copo aspect, its not true to form. To me, anyone can make a new yenko, but if you got GM to do something special, its a real step in the right direction of re-inventing images of some of these super cars of the past. I have a friend that has one of those 2002 camaro berger cars, and I like the way GM put their finger print into that effort, and thus should be the example how these new 'yenkos' should follow. GM should still have an idea of what Yenko was all about too, they seemed to get the berger thing.

my 2 cents.

[Steve Shauger]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
For the people who don't want a new Yenko, it's simple don't buy one. The Yenko family is behind the project that Tom and his group are doing. That is validation enough for me.

[/ QUOTE ]

If there was a real yenko from Don being offered, I would think many would buy them, but that can never happen. If you are " validated " from this endevor By all meands buy the car and enjoy same http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

What muscle car/s do you own now. Have you ever owned a 67, 68,69, 70, or 80 Yenko. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bs.gif
This car is a tribute to Don period, and that is what this site and members are all about. The SYC people behind this project have the passion, desire and knowledge to produce a fantastic car. To condemn this project is way out of line.

[sYc]

[ QUOTE ]
It will be interesting how much different the new yenko stripes look vs what hennesy has done on their camaros (they look same).

I feel if the new 'yenkos' do not involve GM and some form of copo aspect, its not true to form. To me, anyone can make a new yenko, but if you got GM to do something special, its a real step in the right direction of re-inventing images of some of these super cars of the past. I have a friend that has one of those 2002 camaro berger cars, and I like the way GM put their finger print into that effort, and thus should be the example how these new 'yenkos' should follow. GM should still have an idea of what Yenko was all about too, they seemed to get the berger thing.

my 2 cents.

[/ QUOTE ]

If you actually take the time to compare stripe packages, I think you will see they are different.

What did GM do to make the Berger 2002 cars special? I thought an outside source modified them.

[Stefano]

It is very interesting that the ONLY people who have contacted us regarding building them a 2010 Camaro in the Spirit of that which Don Yenko built, in the '60,'70 & '80s are Enthusiasts who own Vintage Yenko cars they would like to commemorate and drive or race on a regular basis.

[1970Bluel78]

[ QUOTE ]
If you don't have a dog in the fight than leave it alone. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

HUH?? So no opinions should be put forth ? only maybe yours? So far everyones been cordial and OK with opinions on many subjects here and I hope we can continue down that path and talk about all the cars we loved from yesteryear and respect all the opinions even yours. Judging from a PM I received there are more then a few who don't like the idea of http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif Yenko on a 2010 car.To each his own, right Kim. If your jonesing for one buy it if not don't buy it but by all means talk about it

[Chevy454]

[ QUOTE ]
Originally posted by: 1970Bluel78

HUH?? So no opinions should be put forth ? only maybe yours? So far everyones been cordial and OK with opinions on many subjects here and I hope we can continue down that path and talk about all the cars we loved from yesteryear and respect all the opinions even yours. Judging from a PM I received there are more then a few who don't like the idea of http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif Yenko on a 2010 car.To each his own, right Kim. If your jonesing for one buy it if not don't buy it but by all means talk about it

[/ QUOTE ]
LOL...you could say the exact same thing if the subject of the thread had been titled "Tom Clary gives away $100 bills", because there's a certain number of folks that would be p!ssed they weren't $1,000 bills, and that dad was behind it!

[iluv69s]

Well..I read this thread and had a few thoughts....

I actually tried to buy the #34 02 ZL-1, but it I wanted it fathom Green like my original car, but it was already too late when I found out about them being made...I think the tribute cars are really cool..but they are what they are...

Based on this thread, I am a bit confused. I'm curious exaactly how involved the Yenko family is with these cars. Obviously not in the same way as Joel or Carroll with thier respective "tribute" cars. But have the family members actually verbally or better yet contractually backed these cars in any way. Or is anyone from the family been contracted or is getting paid in anyway from these cars.
I really like the idea, but as the builder and as a potential buyer, I would be concerned about this other entity that may or may not have some kind of "legal" rights to this name. I'm surprised they have not already contacted you about building these cars.Unfortunately, I cannot believe they are not going to want a cut...$$$.Are you worried about a possible costly legal battle...and/or court order that may cause problems with you continuing the build? Or worse yet if you sell some cars and then they want some part of the gains which were already made.
It is a shame the yenko family does not have the legal rights to their own name without a costly legal battle.

..and I hope all opinions are allowed here as long as they are in a respectful manner....

God Bless America !!

Thanks, max

[black69]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
It will be interesting how much different the new yenko stripes look vs what hennesy has done on their camaros (they look same).

I feel if the new 'yenkos' do not involve GM and some form of copo aspect, its not true to form. To me, anyone can make a new yenko, but if you got GM to do something special, its a real step in the right direction of re-inventing images of some of these super cars of the past. I have a friend that has one of those 2002 camaro berger cars, and I like the way GM put their finger print into that effort, and thus should be the example how these new 'yenkos' should follow. GM should still have an idea of what Yenko was all about too, they seemed to get the berger thing.

my 2 cents.

[/ QUOTE ]

If you actually take the time to compare stripe packages, I think you will see they are different.

What did GM do to make the Berger 2002 cars special? I thought an outside source modified them.

[/ QUOTE ]

Tom, I respectfully think they look similar. I have only seen your yellow car and the list of pictures in the link below to reference. Seems like hennessy has not made up their mind. I did not know the 2010 yenko version was done.

http://www.hennesseyperformance.com/page.php?id=26&cart=JzWxfdTE

I also believe the 2002 ZL1 berger cars had to have some police chassis reinforcement option as part of those 69 cars (per what one owner told me this evening, and he thought that was an issue getting out the door). GM did have atleast one fingerprint in that car going out towards being a supercar.

[sYc]

Lots of cars left GM with the "special police package".

[Chevy454]

[ QUOTE ]
Tom, I respectfully think they look similar. I have only seen your yellow car and the list of pictures in the link below to reference. Seems like hennessy has not made up their mind. I did not know the 2010 yenko version was done.

http://www.hennesseyperformance.com/page.php?id=26&cart=JzWxfdTE


[/ QUOTE ]
The stripes that Hennessey has actually applied on the cars so far that I've seen is identical to the original '69 era Yenko stripe, with the Hennessey/SC verbage substituted...the renderings with the other stripe package look nearly identical to the old Harrell stripe. Anyway, the stripes on our '10 follow and flow with the body lines a lot better than the original stripe set did, not only on the sides, the but hood setup was tweaked as well...'69 influence, with '10 updates.

[Kim_Howie]

Geoff, You stated how you felt,not only once but three times. I think you made your point. We get it. The first time was good enough. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[sYc]

The Yenko family is well aware of what is going on in regards to the Yenko name. For the past several years they have come to rely on me to keep them updated on what is going on in the world in regards to Yenko. I exchange emails with them on a regular basis, and on occasion, visit with them by telephone. Recently our visits have been on a more personal note, the passing of Donna Mae Mims.

When the sYc first considered doing a new Camaro, which was 2-3 years ago, when it became apparent GM was going to release a new Camaro, they were the first to hear of the project, the first to voice their opinions. Had they not approved of the project, we would not be having this discussion.

The oldest daughter Lynn has really taken an interest in the project, to the point of expressing an interest in owing one. Lynn is not stranger to high performance cars, as she spent her teenage years working at the dealership, even applying stripes to a few cars. If that were not cool enough, she often times went to the races with her dad. Lynn has attended a couple of SCRs as well as Chevy Vettefest. If she can work it into her busy schedule, she will make a guest appearance in the sYc display area at the upcoming MCACN show.

I have stated on many occasions that I feel the Yenko family is entitled to compensation for the use of the Yenko name, which the family is well aware of. This includes any new Camaro project. For the past 12 years I feel the sYc has treated the Yenko family fairly in regards to the use of the Yenko name, and will continue to do so in the future.

Regarding any legal actions, IMO it would better serve all interested parties to work together, but that is up to GMCI and their representatives. Though they do have the Yenko name well registered, thus have some legal rights, I feel the Yenko family has legal rights as well, and as along as the sYc has the Yenko family's support, we will continue doing business as usual.

For those who might be interested in having a 2010 Camaro built in the style of Yenko cars of the past, as I am having done, we can legally do it.

[SamLBInj]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
For the people who don't want a new Yenko, it's simple don't buy one. The Yenko family is behind the project that Tom and his group are doing. That is validation enough for me.

[/ QUOTE ]

If there was a real yenko from Don being offered, I would think many would buy them, but that can never happen. If you are " validated " from this endevor By all meands buy the car and enjoy same http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

What muscle car/s do you own now. Have you ever owned a 67, 68,69, 70, or 80 Yenko. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bs.gif
This car is a tribute to Don period, and that is what this site and members are all about. The SYC people behind this project have the passion, desire and knowledge to produce a fantastic car. To condemn this project is way out of line.


[/ QUOTE ]
Hey Steve,
Well Said. I agree 100%
Sam

[SamLBInj]

[ QUOTE ]


The Yenko family is well aware of what is going on in regards to the Yenko name. For the past several years they have come to rely on me to keep them updated on what is going on in the world in regards to Yenko. I exchange emails with them on a regular basis, and on occasion, visit with them by telephone. Recently our visits have been on a more personal note, the passing of Donna Mae Mims.

When the sYc first considered doing a new Camaro, which was 2-3 years ago, when it became apparent GM was going to release a new Camaro, they were the first to hear of the project, the first to voice their opinions. Had they not approved of the project, we would not be having this discussion.

The oldest daughter Lynn has really taken an interest in the project, to the point of expressing an interest in owing one. Lynn is not stranger to high performance cars, as she spent her teenage years working at the dealership, even applying stripes to a few cars. If that were not cool enough, she often times went to the races with her dad. Lynn has attended a couple of SCRs as well as Chevy Vettefest. If she can work it into her busy schedule, she will make a guest appearance in the sYc display area at the upcoming MCACN show.

I have stated on many occasions that I feel the Yenko family is entitled to compensation for the use of the Yenko name, which the family is well aware of. This includes any new Camaro project. For the past 12 years I feel the sYc has treated the Yenko family fairly in regards to the use of the Yenko name, and will continue to do so in the future.

Regarding any legal actions, IMO it would better serve all interested parties to work together, but that is up to GMCI and their representatives. Though they do have the Yenko name well registered, thus have some legal rights, I feel the Yenko family has legal rights as well, and as along as the sYc has the Yenko family's support, we will continue doing business as usual.

For those who might be interested in having a 2010 Camaro built in the style of Yenko cars of the past, as I am having done, we can legally do it.

[/ QUOTE ]
Hey Tom,
I think you guys are doing a tremendous job in keeping the Yenko Name and Legend alive. I for one am glad you put the time and effort to go ahead with this endeavor.
Thanks and keep up the great work!
Sam

[iluv69s]

[ QUOTE ]


The Yenko family is well aware of what is going on in regards to the Yenko name. For the past several years they have come to rely on me to keep them updated on what is going on in the world in regards to Yenko. I exchange emails with them on a regular basis, and on occasion, visit with them by telephone. Recently our visits have been on a more personal note, the passing of Donna Mae Mims.

When the sYc first considered doing a new Camaro, which was 2-3 years ago, when it became apparent GM was going to release a new Camaro, they were the first to hear of the project, the first to voice their opinions. Had they not approved of the project, we would not be having this discussion.

The oldest daughter Lynn has really taken an interest in the project, to the point of expressing an interest in owing one. Lynn is not stranger to high performance cars, as she spent her teenage years working at the dealership, even applying stripes to a few cars. If that were not cool enough, she often times went to the races with her dad. Lynn has attended a couple of SCRs as well as Chevy Vettefest. If she can work it into her busy schedule, she will make a guest appearance in the sYc display area at the upcoming MCACN show.

I have stated on many occasions that I feel the Yenko family is entitled to compensation for the use of the Yenko name, which the family is well aware of. This includes any new Camaro project. For the past 12 years I feel the sYc has treated the Yenko family fairly in regards to the use of the Yenko name, and will continue to do so in the future.

Regarding any legal actions, IMO it would better serve all interested parties to work together, but that is up to GMCI and their representatives. Though they do have the Yenko name well registered, thus have some legal rights, I feel the Yenko family has legal rights as well, and as along as the sYc has the Yenko family's support, we will continue doing business as usual.

For those who might be interested in having a 2010 Camaro built in the style of Yenko cars of the past, as I am having done, we can legally do it.

[/ QUOTE ]

Hey Tom,

Thanks for clearing things up for me. It is a shame the SYC could not have purchased the rights from Classic for the rightful Yenko heirs . I assume it was cost prohibitive. Maybe you guys should be assertive and try and contact the other guy before you are contacted by them(their lawyers). Just a suggestion.

I really like this site..mostly for the knowledge that has been shared and that I have gained, but also for some of the ridiculousness that happens here...it is atleast usually very entertaining!!!..and at times just plain hilarious!!

I'm sure it is a real pain in the a** at times to run this site with some of us knuckleheads and our comments..but Thanks for basically keeping it an open forum with everyone's respectful opinions tolerated !!!

..and Best of Luck with your Project......Im not in the position to own one at the moment, but I hope that 35 years from now I come across a 2010 Yenko Camaro barn-find!!!


http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif
Thanks, max

[ORIGLS6]

[ QUOTE ]

LOL...you could say the exact same thing if the subject of the thread had been titled "Tom Clary gives away $100 bills", because there's a certain number of folks that would be p!ssed they weren't $1,000 bills, and that dad was behind it!

[/ QUOTE ]

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[sYc]

For the past several days I have been exchanging emails with members of the Yenko family, who just learned of GMCI's press release, where Jeff Leonard claimed “ownership of the classic trademark”. They were quite surprised to learn that the rights to the Yenko name had been sold without their knowledge. As are all of us, they are wondering how anyone besides the family could sell the rights to their family name. Needless to say they are not pleased with the current situation, and are looking at their options in regaining any and all rights to the use of the Yenko name.

[motionwannabe]

Thats the best thing Ive heard yet in this entire thread. Hopefully they can prove GMCIs ownership trademark is no good.

[427.060]

Maybe I missed it but who sold GMCI the "rights" to the name?
James

[MosportGreen66]

what is GMCI?

[x Baldwin Motion]

[ QUOTE ]
what is GMCI?

[/ QUOTE ]

there are several GMCI, but the one we reference here is General Marketing Capital Incorporated
http://www.motorauthority.com/blog/gmci


http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif
GMCI will also launch a brand-new online home for the Yenko brand in the upcoming weeks, where owners and enthusiasts can find information about upcoming cars and products, access historical information about the brand, register to be a part of the site's forums and much more....
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/hmmm.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif

[sYc]

[ QUOTE ]

GMCI will also launch a brand-new online home for the Yenko brand in the upcoming weeks, where owners and enthusiasts can find information about upcoming cars and products, access historical information about the brand, register to be a part of the site's forums and much more....


[/ QUOTE ]

I am not for sure if many folks caught that, but IMO, aimed directly at Yenko.net. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bs.gif

[x Baldwin Motion]

I can see all those DynaCorn boys just waiting to log on... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif
give me a break!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif

[motionwannabe]

Yeah its a little ridiculous

[1967Z28]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]

GMCI will also launch a brand-new online home for the Yenko brand in the upcoming weeks, where owners and enthusiasts can find information about upcoming cars and products, access historical information about the brand, register to be a part of the site's forums and much more....


[/ QUOTE ]

I am not for sure if many folks caught that, but IMO, aimed directly at Yenko.net. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bs.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

That's how I read that too, Tom. Only thing I can figure that he might be planning to do different would be making more than Camaro conversions, such as Yenko Cobalts, Yenko Silverados, etc. When he says Yenko brand, it seems to suggest his planned scope is a lot wider than just new Camaros. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

-Jon

[YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY]

We've seen this before, anyone recall Yenko WildFire? It should be taken seriously, but I suspect it will limp along like the other efforts over the years and eventually dissapear into obscurity.

The real Yenko cars, historical records, owners, enthusiasts and knowledge base is right here!!

[Stefano]

Who woke up Marlin?

[TXSS]

For what it's worth.....I'm not an attorney but I've had considerable experience with trademarks and in the end it doesn't really matter who has or owns the registration filed at the patent & trademark office. The bottom line is who can show prior and continuos use of the trademark in commerce...period. Trademarks are protected by the owner using them not by a registration number. However, the other side of the coin is if the original owner of a trademark knew it was being used by others and did not try to prevent it's use that may be considered having abandoned the trademark. I would think in this case being a family name as well as a business name it would be somewhat easy to show continuos use. I would hope so anyway.

I know in my case my family had a product we manufactured for over 20 years under a trade name. We never had the name trademarked but when our biggest competitor found out that the name was considered abandon by the P&TO he ran out and filed a trademark on it and sent me a letter demanding that I stop using the name as it now belong to him. At that point. he started using it. Sorry it does not work that way. Obviously we could show prior and continuos use of the trademark so his registration was reversed ours was filed and he had to pay me 20K to boot for violating MY trademark. It was protected by my family using it not by a registration number.

[motionwannabe]

[ QUOTE ]
For what it's worth.....I'm not an attorney but I've had considerable experience with trademarks and in the end it doesn't really matter who has or owns the registration filed at the patent & trademark office. The bottom line is who can show prior and continuos use of the trademark in commerce...period. Trademarks are protected by the owner using them not by a registration number. However, the other side of the coin is if the original owner of a trademark knew it was being used by others and did not try to prevent it's use that may be considered having abandoned the trademark. I would think in this case being a family name as well as a business name it would be somewhat easy to show continuos use. I would hope so anyway.

I know in my case my family had a product we manufactured for over 20 years under a trade name. We never had the name trademarked but when our biggest competitor found out that the name was considered abandon by the P&TO he ran out and filed a trademark on it and sent me a letter demanding that I stop using the name as it now belong to him. At that point. he started using it. Sorry it does not work that way. Obviously we could show prior and continuos use of the trademark so his registration was reversed ours was filed and he had to pay me 20K to boot for violating MY trademark. It was protected by my family using it not by a registration number.

[/ QUOTE ]Hopefully everyone involved reads this post http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[old5.0]

I do not currently, have never, and probably will never, own a Yenko Camaro. I won't bore anyone with my opinions on reviving the name, nor on Detroit's current "retro" obsession, but I'll say this. If a 2010 Yenko Camaro is going to be built, this should be it's "home". It doesn't take one long to figure out that there is no group of people on earth more passionate and enthusiastic about these cars than the people here. That passion and enthusiasm for the cars themselves is refreshing to be around, even for a Ford junkie.

[Steven J]

Well said.

[PeteLeathersac]

Last night while the sweetheart was shopping I was wasting time cruising what else but the model car section..
Included were a few poor Revell kits...a couple Yenkos, one a '69 Camaro and what was listed as a '69 Yenko Nova also a B/M '70 Chevelle..
What's interesting is the B/M car had a notation that it was produced w/ Joel Rosen licencing or words such as that also one of the Yenkos had a similar note and the other didn't..
All kits were made in China but I wondered if it's true that anyone's being paid for using the Yenko name and if so who would this be also how long has this been the situation?.

But regardless of who's benefited from the above to date and as far as this whole issue and the new Yenko cars also any tradmark debate goes, I'm on the Yenko family and Clarys side 100 percent!.
The Clarys respectfull and passionate ways of carrying the Yenko legacy along have no doubt largely increased its recognition and demand to the point it is today!.
If things need to be tightend up copyright wise to ensure the rights remain w/ the family or whoever they decide to grant rights or pass it on to, I'd hope and expect most here would love to help support this in any ways possible..

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif
~ Pete
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/youguysrock.gif

[sYc]

First, the latest press release by GMCI.
<font color="red"> PRESS RELEASE:

Westminster, Calif. – (October 28, 2009) General Marketing Capital Incorporated (GMCI) announced today that it will present its official 2010 Yenko Camaro Prototype to the public in the OER booth (# 23795) at the 46th annual SEMA Trade Show in Las Vegas, November 3-6.

The company will present the modern Yenko almost 44 years to the day that Don Yenko's Corvair Corsa was officially recognized as a Class D Production Competition Car by the SCCA.

The official 2010 Yenko Prototype began its life on a 2010 Camaro SS platform. The vehicle then underwent several significant upgrades including modification to a "Phase I" Yenko Camaro Supercar. Preliminary highlights and specifications of this powerful vehicle include a high performance 600hp supercharged and intercooled LS-based engine, Tremec six speed manual high performance transmission, Hurst short throw shifter, 6-piston big brake package and Magnaflow high-flow cat-back exhaust system.

Plans call for three Phases to be available to take the fifth Generation Camaro from ordinary to extraordinary. This "Phase I" Prototype from GMCI maintains the unique retro appeal Yenko enthusiasts are so passionate about, while including significant performance upgrades to the stock GM specifications and keeping the car affordable. Phase II and III cars will have higher output engines and even more suspension and handling upgrades.

Additional Yenko branded upgrades to this prototype vehicle include: the Yenko stripe package, official emblems and badging, retro-styled 22" Yenko billet aluminum wheels, Yenko leather interior package featuring Yenko Super Car (sYc) embroidered headrests, Yenko/SC sill plates, Yenko/SC embroidered floor mats and more.

Nearly 45 years ago, racing legend Don Yenko embarked on a mission to build a race car that could effectively compete in the 1966 SCCA racing season. His inspiration resulted in the development of the Yenko Stinger, an SCCA race car based on the Corvair Corsa platform. It was in the last quarter of 1965 that Yenko's plans for that vehicle came together changing automotive history forever.

Originally, the 60s era Yenko car was a special order vehicle, designed and built by Don Yenko Chevrolet in Canonsburg, PA. Don Yenko used the Central Office Production Order (COPO) program, a program GM used for fleet vehicles like police cars, taxi cabs, etc. to special order the vehicles and then modify them into some of the most powerful vehicles available. Today, an original Yenko is one of the most sought after Camaros in the world.

For more information about GMCI or Yenko licensing, please contact GMCI Corporate Headquarters, P.O. box 12049 Westminster, CA. 92683 or [email protected]. </font>

Now..from the Yenko family.
<font color="purple">The "Yenko" family, who are the direct heirs of Don Yenko and his Estate, have never relinquished ownership of their name, nor have they ever sold it off or licensed it to GMCI.

They have NEVER authorized any individual or entity other than the "sYc'', aka The Yenko Sports Car Club/Yenko.net to use it in order to promote and/or perpetuate Don's legacy, this more than a decade ago!

GMCI does not have the approval nor the endorsement of the Yenko family, in order to use the Yenko name for anything, including a 2010 Yenko Camaro.

The Yenko family is extremely distraught over this issue and for the first time since Don Yenko passed, they have retained a Law Firm to defend and protect their interests.

</font>

Needless to say the sYc supports the Yenko family's efforts to regain the rights to their name, and I am pleased to say that a couple of club members have already volunteered to help the family in this venture. As with Helen Gibb and the Gibb mark, we fell confident that control of the Yenko name will be once again rest with the Yenko family.

[x Baldwin Motion]

I think the name "Phase III" might be in use already. These guys are posers at best, Johnny-come-lately's most likely. I hope they have an expensive lawyer on retainer.

http://www.officialbaldwinmotion.com/support/phase3_fullsize_front.jpg

http://www.officialbaldwinmotion.com/phase3.htm

[TXSS]

Good luck to the Yenko family protecting their name.

[motionwannabe]

I completely agree with you Chris. The styling of gmci's stripe on the "YENKO" is very reminiscient of a MOTION Phaselll stripe. I hope the YENKO family can win their name back http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[Stefano]

Historically Phase III belongs to Motion Performance, maybe even legally?

It just doesn't sound right on a Yenko, at least to me.

Don did use Stage I and Stage II for his Yenko Turbo Z28s.

[motionwannabe]

I believe that Joel does legally own the PHASEIII designation. Im not sure but does it seem to anyone else like the gmci car is kinda trying to steal from 2 of the greatest supercar builders MOTION and YENKO?I clearly see styling cues from the Motion Phase III stripe in their variation of the YENKO stripe and using the phase III moniker is just looking for trouble. Maybe gmci wants sued.Stupid is as stupid does http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[x Baldwin Motion]

[ QUOTE ]
Good luck to the Yenko family protecting their name.

[/ QUOTE ] That is truly what is important. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/scholar.gif



I just googled the other guys car, and yes, the stripe is a disturbing combination. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif

[motionwannabe]

Yeah it looks like crap. Atleast the SYCs version is true to form. I'd like to see GMCI pull this crap on Joel. I dont think it would be a pleasant event

[x Baldwin Motion]

http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2009/...ith-600-hp.html (http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2009/11/sema-2009-yenko-camaro-concept-debuts-in-vegas-with-600-hp.html)

[Dave Rifkin]

They can call it what they want but I think that stripe package is ugly. The aero package is just as tacky and doesn't belong on that car. So far I think the best looking tuner Camaro is the one being sold by SLP. They came up with their own idea and aren't trying to resurrect, and profit from, names of the past.

[sYc]

[ QUOTE ]
They can call it what they want but I think that stripe package is ugly. The aero package is just as tacky and doesn't belong on that car. So far I think the best looking tuner Camaro is the one being sold by SLP. They came up with their own idea and aren't trying to resurrect, and profit from, names of the past.

[/ QUOTE ]


Actually they are, "ZL- "

[Dave Rifkin]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
They can call it what they want but I think that stripe package is ugly. The aero package is just as tacky and doesn't belong on that car. So far I think the best looking tuner Camaro is the one being sold by SLP. They came up with their own idea and aren't trying to resurrect, and profit from, names of the past.

[/ QUOTE ]


Actually they are, "ZL- "

[/ QUOTE ]

touche'; I guess what I meant to say was they are allowing the car to speak for itself and make it's own mark. No need to try and tie the new car to a legendary name like Yenko, Nickey, Gibb and the like. Don't get me wrong, I am not trying to bash those who are aligning themselves with those legendary names; I just think it's commendable that companies like SLP are trying to make their own mark.

[427.060]

I just heard that this group was presented with a Cease &amp; Desist order at Sema. Anyone know anything about this?
James

[Xplantdad]

Didn't see anything unusual while I was there..I even have a few shots of the car that was there in the SEMA post...the stripe is ugly in my opinion!

[sYc]

[ QUOTE ]
I just heard that this group was presented with a Cease &amp; Desist order at Sema. Anyone know anything about this?
James

[/ QUOTE ]

Yes..the Yenko family, Don's daughters Terri and Lynn, had Mr. Leonard and his group served with a Cease &amp; Desist order at SEMA.

Their reply bascially said that they, not the Yenko family, owned the rights to the Yenko name, therefore they could do what they wanted.

[427.060]

I asked earlier but never got a response. Who was it that this group supposedly bought the rights to the Yenko name from?
James

[sYc]

[ QUOTE ]
I asked earlier but never got a response. Who was it that this group supposedly bought the rights to the Yenko name from?
James

[/ QUOTE ]

The U.S. government, the trademark division.

[427.060]

O,ok. I thought they were saying they bought it from someone or another company. Thanks for clearing it up.
James

[old5.0]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
I just heard that this group was presented with a Cease &amp; Desist order at Sema. Anyone know anything about this?
James

[/ QUOTE ]

Yes..the Yenko family, Don's daughters Terri and Lynn, had Mr. Leonard and his group served with a Cease &amp; Desist order at SEMA.

Their reply bascially said that they, not the Yenko family, owned the rights to the Yenko name, therefore they could do what they wanted.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well, if nothing else, the family can use publicity to make doing business uncomfortable for these people. I've already been commenting on this on every automotive news forum on the 'net.

[motionwannabe]

Well, as much as I hate to say it I wont be buying anything from classic ind anymore. What a crooked way of doing things. This is ridiculous. The name belongs to the family noy Jeff Leonard. Whats next, is he gonna pull an "OCHOCINKO" and change his last name to "Yenko"? WHAT A TOOLBAG!!!!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[old5.0]

On a related note, I went back and checked the response to my comments on the aformentioned news sites, and they've all been deleted. Every one.

[AutoInsane]

Any updates???

[sYc]

[ QUOTE ]
Any updates???

[/ QUOTE ]

The Yenko family has retained a trademark attorney in an effort to retain the rights to their name, and the sYc has done the same, to protect our rights to sYc.

We are hopeful for some sort of out of court settlement, but at this point up to Leonard.

For now, business as usual around here.

[sYc]

At the recent MCACN show I was told that a couple of weeks before SEMA, GMCI/Classic had a meeting with GM, pitching the idea of GM doing a 2010 Yenko Camaro, no doubt the car in the OER booth at SEMA. This would explain why in the last couple of years GMCI/Classic registered so many Yenko and sYc marks. If GM had signed on, no doubt with a licensing agreement from GMCI/Classic, big bucks for someone, unfortunately not the Yenko family.

[motionwannabe]

WOW!!!! I feel bad for the YENKO family. They dont even have rights to their name. excuse this expression but Jeff Leonard is raping them of their name. He wants it they say NO and still get screwed. What is this world coming to???? This is ridiculous!!!!!!!!!!!

[bpodner]

The Yenko family needs to take a page from Caroll Shelby's playbook. A lot of people bag on him for, sometimes, viciously defending his name and brand. His lawyers can slap a "cease and desist" on someone so quick it'll make your head spin. Plus I think they have won every case that has gone to court. Like it or not, in this hobby, a name is everything. That little name on a car can mean the difference between a $30k and a $100k car.

[Jack_Tar]

OK, so I'm resurrecting a thread from WAY back. I never saw a late model Yenko come out. What was the end result of this?