We've heard from a number of people that YouTube has recently blocked a number of fanvids due to alleged music rights violations. But YouTube also provides a mechanism for vidders to assert their right to fair use: a quick and easy dispute process.

YouTube recognizes that there are legitimate artistic and critical reasons to use copyrighted material, and the online form gives, as a potential reason for dispute: "This video uses copyrighted material in a manner that does not require approval of the copyright holder. It is a fair use under copyright law." The form also asks you to explain further.

Just a quick note to anybody who's going to be attending Comic Con (July 24 -27) or any other upcoming fandom conventions and gatherings:

If any of you want to print and distribute materials about the OTW, .pdf files of full-sheet and half-sheet flyers can be found here.