November 5, 2007
In the Circuit Court of the Seventh Judicial Circuit in Springfield today, Judge Patrick Kelley denied a motion by the Illinois Press Association seeking a temporary restraining order.
The judge determined that there was no emergency in this particular case. The Association has a longstanding relationship with VIP Photography and has a longstanding media policy preventing the secondary use of any picture, film, videotape, drawing or other depiction of an IHSA game or event. This policy is consistent with the policies currently in place at Illinois State University, the University of Illinois and the Big Ten, among others.
In papers filed with the court today, the IHSA further explained its relationship with VIP. Executive Director Marty Hickman said, “Contrary to what has been stated by the Illinois Press Association, the Illinois High School Association has received no payment of any kind in its contractual relationship with VIP. The Association has used photographs taken by VIP to promote participation in interscholastic activities, sportsmanship, officials education and other uses consistent with the Association’s mission.”
Today, Judge Kelley encouraged both sides to enter into discussions in an effort to settle the issues. “We continue to be willing to discuss any issues brought forward by the Illinois Press Association,” said Hickman. “That offer was last made to Dave Bennett, Executive Director of the Illinois Press Association, on August 9, 2007, in a meeting that took place in the IHSA Office. However, rather than sharing its concerns as agreed to in our August meeting, the Illinois Press Association decided to file a lawsuit.”