I wanted to make an actual update to the website, but Windows XP is acting
up and will not let me load the page manager (the wireless connection where
I am is a little bit shotty as well).

This week was the start and end of the trial of JK Rowling and Warner Bros.
vs RDR Books. The case stems from RDR's attempts to publish The Harry Potter
Lexicon, a print version of the popular website. Rowling claims that the
book merely copies and rearranges her work without any new analysis or
commentary. RDR and author, Stephen Van Der Ark, claim that their book falls
under the fair use clause of copyright law. Copyright law is merky, and this
case could potentially set a precident for future copyright cases. The judge
is expected to rule within the next few weeks.

The three-day trial saw the testimony of Rowling, Van Der Ark, and other
associated with the Potter books. The judge seemed to be leaning towards RDR
at the trials end, as he seemed to discount Rowling's plea that just becasue
she is famous, her work should be just as protected as someone else's.

Personally, I think that Van Der Ark and RDR really have no case, and that
Jo should win, no problem. However, the judge seems to feel differently.
Since this debacle began, I have not visited the HP Lexicon, and do not plan
on visiting it ever again. Many sites have the same information as the
Lexicon does. As a non-profit, website, the Lexicon is completely
acceptable. However, when pure information is made available for purchase,
that is infringment. The book offers only information, many times in Jo's
own words. Other books, such as the Mugglenet book, provide insight,
analysis, and commentary. The Lexicon book, to the best of my knowledge,
provides none. Stay strong Jo! We are willing to wait as long as it takes
for a definitive, official encyclopedia of the wizarding world!