If you make a t-shirt based off the map of the New York Subway system and try to sell them through Cafe Press, you may get in trouble. This week, I received my first ever cease and desist letter. I feel so proud. It came from a gentleman by the name of Lester G. Freundlich, who happens to be in charge of stopping naughty people from infringing upon the city's intellectual property.

So sadly, it looks like there will be no more selling of my cool shirt. I personally feel that am justified in this image's use under the principle of fair use. I also think that I changed the image enough to be considered beyond the reach of their copyright. But considering that I have done next to nothing as far marketing for my shirt, I have very little litigious inclination.

So unless the MTA and I can come up with a fair marketing agreement, it looks like my Cafe Press store will be empty till I come up with a new t-shirt design.

Now I wonder, does this make my original subway shirt government property?