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Associated Press
a day ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Martensen IP Offers Valuable Insights on Best Practices for Protecting Your IP from Hidden Risks in Government Contracts
07/28/2025, Colorado Springs, CO // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // Your SBIR Phase proposal and how (or by whom) your IP is crafted might grant the government more rights than intended. Learn how specific language and developmental approaches can jeopardize your intellectual property and future commercialization efforts. The Hidden Risk in Government Contracts Securing a Phase II or III SBIR award is a significant achievement. However, many companies unknowingly jeopardize their intellectual property (IP) rights through the language used in their proposals and how they produce their deliverables. What seems like standard, or 'boilerplate' text can inadvertently grant the government extensive rights, potentially diminish the value of your innovations, and deter future investors or acquirers. And managing risk using 1099s or independent contractors can lead to a loss of control of future opportunities. Understanding Government IP Rights In government contracts, the rights the government obtains to IP depend largely on prior assertions of your rights, what you have agreed to deliver, and the specific terms outlined in the contract. The primary categories of government rights include: Unlimited rights. The government can use, disclose, reproduce, and distribute technical data or software in any manner and for any purpose. This typically applies when the government fully funds development (DoD) or development was accomplished in performance of the contract (non-DoD)*. Government purpose rights. The government can use, disclose, reproduce, and distribute the technical data or software within the government without restriction and can share it with other contractors but only for government purposes. This applies when development is funded by a mix of government and private funds under defense contracts (DoD). Limited/Restricted rights. The government can use the technical data or software within the government but cannot disclose it to third parties without permission. This usually applies when the development is entirely funded at private expense (DoD) or developed not in performance of the contract. (non-DoD) SBIR data rights. Under a SBIR/STTR award, the government gains limited and restricted rights in the data and software delivered. These rights last for 20 years, after which the government's rights become unlimited. The Proposal Becomes the Contract A critical aspect often overlooked is that the proposal you submit can become an integral part of the contract. Terms and descriptions used in the proposal are often incorporated by reference or copied directly into the contract, making them legally binding. Simply put, the government contract usually accepts exactly what is offered. Common Pitfalls in Proposal Language Overly broad descriptions. Providing detailed technical data without appropriate restrictions can lead to unintended rights being granted. Lack of proper markings. Failing to assert and mark proprietary information correctly can result in the government assuming broader rights than intended. Inconsistent terminology. All the words used in a proposal should be selected carefully, but in the world of IP certain terms are particularly important. Government rights in IP are tied to the use of these words. Using terms like 'develop' or 'create' in a proposal without understanding their contractual implications can be detrimental. Recognize that Phase III refers to work that derives from, extends, or completes an effort made under prior SBIR/STTR Funding Agreements. Matching prior terminology on prior SBIR/STTR grants on a Phase III proposal ensures IP rights are maintained. Subcontractor Missteps A common mistake is taking steps to minimize cost that increases risk. Small companies are typically cash-poor. To be efficient, hirings are minimized, and contractual help is maximized. Resources are engaged on an 'as needed' basis, and independent contractors and 1099s are common. The government, however, looks at independent contractors and 1099s differently. From the government's perspective, an independent contractor or 1099 is a subcontractor, and a subcontractor, not the prime, possesses (owns) the IP. Lacking correct wording in everyone's working agreement, the company may not actually control the IP. And the government may be looking at awarding a Phase III contract to your independent contractor, not you. Best Practices for Protecting Your IP Safeguard Your Innovation The language used in your SBIR proposal and worker agreements is not just a formality; it's a critical component that can define the future of your intellectual property and the value of your company. By understanding the implications and taking proactive steps, you can protect your innovations and maintain their commercial value. Ready To Ensure Your IP Is Protected? Schedule a free 30-minute consultation with our experienced IP attorneys to review your proposal and safeguard your intellectual property rights. Book Your Free Consultation! Martensen specializes in intellectual property (IP) strategies for the identification, protection, and monetization of IP, particularly with respect to government contracts, providing deep expertise in SBIR/STTR programs, defense tech, and dual-use commercialization. *Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Department of Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) govern non-DoD and DoD rights, respectively. About Martensen IP At the intersection of business, law and technology, Martensen understands the tools of IP. Martensen knows the business of IP. We understand the tech market, especially when the government is a customer, and we know how to plan, assess, and adjust. Patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, licenses are our tools. Martensen IP Media Contact Source: Release ID: 1682734
Buzz Feed
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
12 Celebrities Who Charged High Prices For Products
Some celebrities will slap their names on literally anything. From food collabs to furniture, nothing is safe. And the worst part? They'll charge a ridiculous price, and fans will still buy it out. Whether it's a merch item no one asked for, or a fast food themed pillow that costs five times the amount of your meal, these are the most hilariously overpriced and unhinged items celebrities have sold to their fans. Frank Ocean: $25,570 "XXXL H-Bone Ring" In 2022, Frank Oceans' luxury brand Homer released a collection of diamond encrusted accessories, one of which was the "XXXL H-Bone Ring." This luxury NSFW ring was casually dropped and somehow forgotten after just three years. But I'll never forget, Frank. Gwyneth Paltrow: $75 "This Smells Like My Vagina" Candle If you weren't already aware, Gwyneth Paltrow owns a wellness brand named Goop, which is known for some very unconventional products. The "This Smells Like My Vagina" candle was sold at $75 back in 2020, and of course, it sold out almost instantly. If you think this is weird, wait till you hear about her jade egg controversy... KISS: $3,900 "KISS Forever" Branded Coffin Back in the day, KISS slapped their name on literally anything possible. From waffle makers to pinball machines, they have been through it all. Released in 2001, the KISS casket is exactly what it sounds like: a branded coffin designed for fans. It's even been gifted to rock 'n' rollers who have chosen to be buried in them. Travis Scott: $90 McDonald's McNugget Pillow In 2020, Travis Scott sold a 3-foot long McDonald's McNugget shaped pillow for a whopping price of $90. It was a huge success, although we can't say the same for the pillow's quality. After shipping to fans' doors, many commented having buyer's remorse. Yikes... Eminem: $313 Bricks To mark the 16th anniversary of "The Marshall Mathers LP" in 2016, Eminem sold actual bricks from his demolished childhood home for $313 each. A portion of the proceeds went to the Marshall Mathers Foundation, so at least it was partly for a good cause. Rihanna: $25 'Ketchup or Makeup?' Lip Gloss In a collab with MSCHF, Rihanna's makeup brand, Fenty Beauty, launched a set of six ketchup-style packets in 2022 — five containing lip gloss, and one with actual ketchup. Although this is the cheapest item on the list, is $25 worth it for a spec of usable lip gloss and a possible ketchup mishap? That's debatable. Justin Timberlake: $350 'Livin' Off the Land' Axe Yes, you read that right. During his "Man of the Woods" era in 2018, Justin Timberlake held a pop-up merch store filled with items relating to his new album. One of which was an axe that he sold for $350. At least he was catering to a specific audience? Paris Hilton: $30 "Unicorn Mist" This glittery facial spray was marketed as an "all-natural" pre-makeup refresher in 2017. In reality, the spray contained irritating ingredients. Not hot, Paris. Taylor Swift: $400 Acoustic Guitar In 2024, Taylor Swift's merch drop included a $50 soy candle, a $120 "Cowboy Like Me" jacket, and Taylor Swift branded acoustic guitars — all of which sparked controversy for being overpriced and questionably made. Hope there wasn't any "Bad Blood" with fans at those prices! DJ Khaled: $55 "Another One" Slides In 2015, DJ Khaled launched some iconic rubber slides. With three colour options and classic DJ Khaled sayings like "Another One" and "Bless Up," the famous record producer had EVERYONE covered. Kim Kardashian: $98 Butt-Shaped Pool Floatie In the late 2010s, Kim Kardashian was profiting off of everything mobile-related — From emojis to her hit game: "Kim Kardashian: Hollywood." In 2017, she dropped one of her most iconic merch items ever: the butt-shaped pool floatie — inspired by her Kimoji, of course — retailing for $98! Grimes: $300,000 "Newborn 2" NFT Art Grimes dove headfirst into NFTs in 2021 with her digital art collection "WarNymph" — a cyber-baby series that somehow brought her a total of $5.8 million from just 10 pieces. One of the works, "Newborn 2," was initially traded for $300,000 and later relisted for $2.5 million. Now those are some wild stats. So there you have it, celebrities are out here monetizing the most absurd ideas. I'm both confused yet impressed that most of these items sold out at the time of their releases... Would you buy any of these? Let us know your thoughts in the comments — and if you remember any weird celebrity products, we wanna hear them too! For more unhinged celeb content, check out BuzzFeed Canada's TikTok and Instagram! ✨✨
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
'XO, Kitty' Season 3: Everything We Know (So Far!) About the Netflix Series' Next Chapter
The second season of the 'To All the Boys' spinoff premiered in January 2025 XO, Kitty isn't signing off just yet. The Netflix original series — a spinoff of the popular To All the Boys film franchise — follows Kitty Song-Covey (Anna Cathcart) as she moves to Seoul to attend the Korean Independent School of Seoul (K.I.S.S.) and reunite with her long-distance boyfriend, Dae (Choi Min-young). Their reunion proves to be more complicated and dramatic than romantic, leading Kitty to find new friends — and romances — while building a life in the South Korean city. "Immediately when she gets there, within seconds after she sees [Dae], that's all kind of thrown out the window," Cathcart revealed to PEOPLE in May 2023. "And she's thrown upside down into this whole new world that she was not expecting to find in Korea." The first season premiered in May 2023, with the second following in January 2025 — but what is in store for season 3? Here's everything to know about XO, Kitty season 3, including who is being added to the cast and when fans can expect to start a new year at K.I.S.S. Has XO, Kitty been renewed for season 3? Yes, XO, Kitty has been renewed for a third season. Netflix made the announcement in a video posted online on Feb. 14. In the clip, Cathcart accepts a delivery of a bouquet of roses, reading a card that says: "Roses are red, violets are blue, there's a third season of XO, Kitty in store for you!" She then reaches into a gift bag, revealing a season 3 script. "It's official! Season 3 of XO, Kitty is in the works," she says ecstatically. Which cast members are returning for XO, Kitty season 3? The main cast members who play Kitty's friends and K.I.S.S. classmates are returning for the third season. According to Tudum, that includes Cathcart, Minyeong Choi, Gia Kim, Anthony Keyvan, Sang Heon Lee, Regan Aliyah, Hojo Shin, Peter Thurnwald, Joshua Lee, Sasha Bhasin, Michael K. Lee, Jocelyn Shelfo, Philippe Lee, Han Bi Ryu and Sunny Oh. The series is also adding three new cast members to the upcoming season: Sule Thelwell, Soy Kim and Christine Hwang. "Grateful beyond words to join the XO, Kitty family! It's been nothing short of magical," Kim wrote on Instagram in July 2025. "The cast and crew are not only wildly talented, but endlessly kind. I feel so lucky to be part of something special. And witty. And charming." What happened at the end of XO, Kitty season 2? Season 2 ended with Kitty scoring a scholarship to K.I.S.S., securing her return to the school for her senior year. In the finale, Kitty is about to confess her feelings to Min Ho (Sang Heon Lee), before he leaves to spend his summer on tour, with his dad, and older brother, pop star Joon Ho (Peniel Shin). The two say goodbye and embrace, almost sharing a kiss. After Min Ho walks away, Kitty yells out, asking if she can join him on the tour. He smiles and nods for her to come along. "I know we left fans on a cliffhanger at the end of Season 2 but I can promise season 3 will be worth the wait, including our first summer episode," season 2 showrunner Jessica O'Toole said at the time of the renewal, per Deadline. "Not to mention plenty of romance, friendship, adventure … and kissing. Lots of kissing." According to Deadline, Valentina Garza, who wrote the season 2 finale and was a writer on seasons 2 and 3, took over as showrunner for the upcoming season. When does XO, Kitty season 3 come out? A premiere date for XO, Kitty season 3 has not been announced, but production on the new set of episodes wrapped in July 2025. On July 17, Netflix posted a behind-the-scenes compilation video on Instagram, with the caption: "Put a bow on it because XO, KITTY: SEASON 3 filming has wrapped!" Cathcart also celebrated the end of filming with an Instagram post showing off some XO, Kitty season 3 pajama pants. "And that's a wrap💌💌 my heart is so full," she wrote in the caption. While there's no release date for the third season, season 2 wrapped production in June 2024 and the season debuted a few months later in January 2025. Where can I watch XO, Kitty? Both seasons of XO, Kitty are available to stream on Netflix. Read the original article on People
Associated Press
5 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Price Right Professional Landscaping & Tree Service Unveils Summer Specials
07/24/2025, Haslet, TX // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // This summer, homeowners in Fort Worth and surrounding areas have a great opportunity to improve the safety, beauty, and health of their properties with the help of Price Right Professional Landscaping & Tree Service. The trusted local company is offering exclusive July tree service specials, available through the end of the month. Homeowners can enjoy 20% off the third tree removal when two are scheduled, along with an additional $375 off any project exceeding $3,000. Price Right Professional Landscaping & Tree Service is known for delivering expert tree care solutions. The team combines skill and experience to help homeowners maintain safe and beautiful properties even during the harsh Texas summer. These limited-time offers make it easier than ever to remove hazardous or unwanted trees and invest in lasting improvements, such as decorative rock work, mulching, and landscape installation that boost curb appeal and property value. Homeowners taking advantage of these summer specials from Price Right Professional Landscaping & Tree Service can also save on River Rock installation, a durable and attractive ground cover ideal for Texas landscapes. Qualifying bulk purchases include complimentary mulch, adding even more value to outdoor upgrades. In addition, the company offers discounts on plant health care treatments designed to strengthen trees against summer heat stress. Every service from Price Right is guided by an ISA-Certified Arborist. This ensures professional expertise and recommendations tailored to each property's unique needs. Serving Fort Worth, Haslet, Keller, Southlake, Grapevine, and surrounding areas, Price Right is fully insured, locally owned, and trusted for delivering high-quality solutions that balance practicality and creativity. Homeowners choose Price Right not only for its competitive pricing and comprehensive range of services, including tree trimming, removals, and full-scale landscape transformations. The team understands the specific challenges of North Texas environments and offers expert strategies that help trees and landscapes thrive in local conditions. Summer in Texas often brings severe storms, prolonged heat, and drought stress that can weaken trees and threaten property safety. Proactive maintenance, such as trimming dead branches, removing failing trees, and applying micronutrient treatments, can prevent costly damage and preserve the health of trees. By booking these services during the July promotion period, homeowners can protect their property and enjoy safer and more beautiful outdoor spaces. With special discounts on tree removal, River Rock installation, and any project over $3,000, these July tree service specials offer a timely opportunity to tackle long-overdue outdoor projects. Price Right Trees also offers personalized plant health care programs to keep trees strong and vibrant year-round. Whether the goal is a cleaner yard, improved tree health, or a more inviting landscape, its team provides customized plans to achieve it. To learn more about Price Right Professional Landscaping & Tree Service and its July specials, visit or contact their office directly. About Price Right Professional Landscaping & Tree Service Price Right Professional Landscaping & Tree Service provides professional tree care, landscaping, and property maintenance services throughout Fort Worth, TX, and surrounding communities. Its experienced and certified team delivers reliable, high-quality results that enhance both property safety and appeal. ### Media Contact Price Right Professional Landscaping & Tree Service 2227 White Ln, Haslet, TX 76052 (817) 675-8565 newsroom: Source published by Submit Press Release >> Price Right Professional Landscaping & Tree Service Unveils Summer Specials
Associated Press
5 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Legiit Delivers the Best SEO Gigs Online with New Elite Standards
07/23/2025, Myrtle Beach, SC // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // Legiit, the leading online marketplace connecting businesses with professional freelancers, has solidified its position as the home for the best SEO gigs online by implementing the industry's most stringent approval standards. This strategic enhancement ensures that clients seeking exceptional SEO results have access to an exclusively curated network of top-tier experts who have passed rigorous qualification requirements. The updated guidelines, now being rolled out platform-wide, place more emphasis on transparency, proven expertise, and ethical practices among freelancers who offer SEO-related services. Every SEO gig submission will now undergo a more thorough review process by Legiit's moderation team, including closer scrutiny of deliverables, techniques used, and clear communication of expected outcomes to clients. Sellers will be required to provide concrete examples of past work and articulate the value of their offerings in a way that aligns with search engine best practices. Chris M. Walker, founder of Legiit, explained that the changes stem from the platform's mission to help clients find the best SEO gigs without having to sift through misleading claims or low-quality services. 'We believe our buyers deserve complete confidence when they order SEO work on Legiit. By tightening our standards, we are helping them achieve better results while giving professional freelancers a space where quality stands out,' Walker said. With this updated approval process, buyers can now browse the platform knowing that each SEO gig meets enhanced quality expectations. For sellers, meanwhile, the changes present an opportunity to stand out by showcasing authentic skills and delivering real results, helping elevate the marketplace as a whole. The company has long been recognized for its high-quality marketplace, which brings together skilled freelancers offering services across SEO, digital marketing, web development, design, and more. The platform stands out for its intuitive user experience, personalized customer service, and an active community where freelancers and buyers exchange feedback, tips, and support. The platform also thrives on fostering genuine connections between clients and service providers. Legiit continues to expand its reach, serving customers and freelancers from the United States and worldwide. It provides a secure and efficient platform where transactions are protected, communication is seamless, and both parties have access to ongoing support. Freelancers can build their reputations through verified reviews and repeat orders, while buyers can rely on transparent pricing, clear deliverables, and the assurance of working with pre-screened professionals. More information about Legiit and its marketplace can be found online. Its website highlights how it supports businesses and freelancers achieve their goals through meaningful collaborations. Whether clients are looking for best SEO gigs online, creative content writing, social media marketing, or technical web development, Legiit offers a curated space that prioritizes results and satisfaction. Learn more by visiting Legiit's website at About Legiit Legiit is an online marketplace connecting businesses and individuals with skilled freelancers offering professional digital services. Its platform empowers both buyers and sellers to collaborate effectively and achieve their objectives. ### Media Contact Legiit Address: 2411 N. Oak Street Suite #201 Unit 105E, Myrtle Beach, SC, 295777 Phone: (843) 855-8788 Website: Source published by Submit Press Release >> Legiit Delivers the Best SEO Gigs Online with New Elite Standards
