February 19, 2004

Buyer Beware--A Request from John Desmond

John Desmond, Publisher of Software Magazine, sent out an email today warning that another company is hawking Software Magazine's Software 500 plaques. John works hard and taught me a lot personally as a youngish freelance writer contributing stories to ADT, and then SW Mag. It's a shame some quick-hit operation is trying to leech off of SW Mag's brand. Do those guys a favor: Don't buy Software 500 Plaques from American Registry. John explains what's up in the email:

Dear Marketing and Public Relations Professional,

A company not authorized by or affiliated in any way with Softwaremag.com and Software Magazine has begun to promote 2003 Software 500 plaques.

This message is to let you know that this company, American Registry LLC out of Lyndhurst, N.J., has no permission from us to use our list or our trademarks. We will be pursuing legal avenues to have them cease and desist.

Thank you for your support of Softwaremag.com and Software Magazine, a brand name in the industry for over 20 years.

We have our own 2003 Software 500 plaque marketing effort going on. Please let me know if you would like to have a salesperson contact you to pursue the opportunity.

And thank you to those who received messages from American Registry and asked us if we were working with them. The answer is no. We have never been contacted by them. We appreciate your consideration.

Regards,

John Desmond
Publisher and Editorial Director
Softwaremag.com