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What would you do? A libel situation
Hello Ladies & Gents,
I have a slight situation I would LOVE your advice on. If you are an avid veener who follows Akron posts you may remember part of this situation.
A while ago I attended a studio, that shall remain nameless, for one class. The instructor taught for about 15 minutes then refused to teach. Due to this and a other incidents that happened in my time their I could not suggest the studio to anyone. There was a veener coming in to town looking for a place to practice. I made my suggestions and said that I could not recommend said studio. I did not list my numerous reasons why, just that I could not recommend it.
Well as google is wonderful they found the post and bashed my on this forum. Veena being awesome removed the posts and closed the forum. Shortly after I noticed my name on their website in the F.A.Q section. They call me about by name claim to have trained me and insinuate that I was not up to par. At first I took for flattery that they obviously they want to lay some claim to my awesomeness( I may not be a competition poler but I am a DAMN good teacher and dedicate my life to pole). I could ramble and bitch but I will continue.
Lately it had been getting under the skin. What they posted is libel and they have no right to use my personal name. I attended one class where the teacher did not even touch the pole to teach, this does not qualify as training. It bothers me because it ruins my credibility as an instructor and I in no way want to be associated with their instructors or how they do business.
Obviously the owner has no intent of removing it as they have made several edits to it recently. I contacted their web-host but they will not get involved in the matter. The owner of the studio I work for in cleveland considered submitting a cease & desist since she also does not want to be associated with them. However, I really do not want to take legal action just yet. That involves money. I teach full time and just graduated from college, so that is something I do not have. Where I have heard she has an endless supply.
So my question is what would you do? My students know that I do not teach or train there and we do attract somewhat of a different market. I openly tell students whom I train with and what my qualifications are. However, I do not want students that go there and have a similar experience to mine to associate me or anyone else for that matter with them. I do not want them to get the perception that all studios are alike and give up on pole, of course that is their ignorance.
Ugggh. I really want to rant but I am keeping it all in. I am very proud of myself.
Peace, Love, & Pole,
Jessie
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