A local company takes on my company name practically

[Sherry]

O.k. this is upsetting.  Since going into business for myself, I've felt truly hurt many times.  I thought I'd gotten over it, had learned a thing or two... maybe some forgiveness, but here it is again.  I've felt at times really taken advantage of, etc.

But this really hurts.  I've worked so hard at my business since starting it 4 years ago.  Put my heart and soul into it and tried my hardest to do right by others and to be of help when I could.  I can see people I've trained going into business for themselves, but not taking on my same business name.  It really hurts.

[Party Picassos Facepainting]

Maybe a phone call is in order! That is pretty awful.
They may start getting calls that were meant for you.
If they JUST started, changing their name shouldn't be a big deal.
Hope they don't have business cards made.

I consider training people to be under my umbrella, but wonder
if they would steal my business. My sister-in-law and my nephew
are considering working with me. Family is the only option for me.

Sooooo sorry this happened to you.

[Party Picassos Facepainting]

Hmmmm. I just went to flfunfaces.com
Is this the culprit?
Well if it is...your work is MUCH better.
Talent talks! YOU have it.

Sayin a little prayer for you! 

[Sherry]

Thank you Wina for the prayers!  I was doing that too. 

No, that's not them.  It looks like that site is in central Florida and I'm in Northeast Florida.  I did give her a call, but she never returned my call.  I didn't tell her the reason I was calling, only to give me a call.  Soon after the call I had someone come to my house saying that she had sent him to return my face painting kit.  I thought that was strange, because it was supposed to be returned 2 years ago.

Anyway, I don't train people for face painting anymore.  I only look for people already in the field, if I need extra help.  I wish I could get family members to go into the business with me, but I've never had any takers.  And believe me, I've tried!

[Psalmbook]

I've seen her sight & the name is crazily similar & she also uses Sherry's company name many times in her text. Not cool
I know of a face painter in another city who is going through the same problem. She has a very unique company name & it's spelled in a very particular way. Her competitor has just started up websites, ads & a facebook page w/ an almost identical name & exact spelling. I feel for her as well...
I think you should see what you can do legally & if you have any legal standing.

[Psalmbook]

I found this & I think it might pertain to your situation:

http://www.google.com/support/forum/p/Webmasters/thread?tid=789bde1ec385c556&hl=en

[Sherry]

Hey thanks Linda.