Bobblehead Detente

AUGUST 2--Arnold Schwarzenegger's ill-conceived legal fight to curb the sale of a bobblehead doll featuring a likeness of the California governor came to an end today. The Republican politician has agreed to allow an Ohio manufacturer to continue producing the dolls, though future Arnold bobbleheads will not be carrying an assault rifle (as does the original, pictured at right). In addition, Ohio Discount Merchandise will donate a portion of future doll sales to a Schwarzenegger charity, according to a settlement agreement. The legal stipulation, a copy of which you'll find below, closes out two copyright infringement lawsuits brought by two Schwarzenegger companies (the legal filings came after the politician's Los Angeles lawyers dashed off a blistering letter threatening litigation). The bobblehead company contended that the firm was within its rights to use Schwarzenegger's image since he is an elected politician and was, essentially, now in the public domain. (3 pages)