Hotel California will have a new name
AUSTINTOWN TWP., Ohio - Instead of challenging a federal court order, the operator of Austintown's Hotel California says he will change the name of the business.
Sebastian Rucci tells 21 News that the new name will be “California Palms Hotel & Suites.”
Rucci's decision comes just two days after U.S. District Court Judge John Adams issued an order giving Rucci until June 10 to stop using the name "Hotel California" or "The Hotel California" in all print, internet-based, and other advertising.
The order stems from a trademark infringement lawsuit filed against Rucci by Ocean Avenue Properties, claiming that it has had the rights to the trademark since 1997 when it opened a Hotel California in Santa Monica, California.
Although Rucci said he considered several options, including appealing the order, he says that the name “California Palms Hotel & Suites” has no similar marks listed by the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
In addition, Rucci says that the name is sufficiently different from Hotel California to end the trademark controversy.
After several delays, Hotel California, surrounded by faux palm trees, opened for business on Route 46 and I-680 in April.
So far, the hotel has not been able to secure a liquor license. However, Rucci has been inviting guests to bring their own beverages.
Rucci points out that in addition to the accommodations offered, the hotel also has a restaurant operated by the Fifth Season, as well as entertainment from a DJ and weekend comedy shows.
