If it was not as "difficult" as you claim, then certainly, it wouldn't have been difficult for you to relay a "Hey guys, you think maybe you should.." and then we could have not gone through all the trouble of putting up funds to start this project. I don't know what your qualifications are, nor did I believe I had to consult with you first either as matter of practice, or that I would have known what to ask.
I had no idea what KSU had or didn't have as far as intellectual rights, nor did I realize it would cause a problem for the vendor. That's really the point. If as you state, this could be used as an example in a class of what not to do regarding intellectual property, then I would imagine that since this, apparently, is a textbook example, then you could have said something.
But you didn't. Instead you added to the project input, even offering opinions on your view of the likeness. Now you're telling me you'd buy a shirt, even though the same result would have happened. Now, the vendor and I are both out funds, and the time spent by the guys making the design, are also out. I'm sure that you'd say "Well I didn't like the design, so it doesn't bother me" but it does bother me. I suppose I learned my lesson the hard way, and shame on me for even trying. The problem I have is the absurdity in knowing that someone may have been able to provide that knowledge to help us avoid the pitfall of having to spend money and time, and yet chose not to, even going as far as helping to exacerbate it. While the consequences aren't that bad (we haven't been disassociated, and the vendor still gets to keep his license) we're getting to watch you laugh at a distance and try to make light of something I and others put time and effort into. Sorry if I take it personally, but considering that I bear all the costs for this site for you and the others that post, I guess I shouldn't. Yep, I'm a fool. You got your laugh.
