From staff reports
news@joplinglobe.com
JOPLIN, Mo. —
Joplin City Attorney Brian Head and sports promoter Dean Reinke were not available for comment Monday after court-ordered mediation stemming from the city’s decision to sue Reinke over the use of the “Mother Road Marathon” name and trademark rights.
The city filed a lawsuit last month in Jasper County Circuit Court seeking preliminary and permanent injunctions barring Reinke Sports Group, based in Florida, from promoting the 2011 Mother Road Marathon.
The marathon is the only such event that allows runners to cross parts of three states on historic Route 66. The inaugural race, held Oct. 10, was considered an overwhelming success.
The lawsuit was transferred to federal court earlier this month. As part of the case, mediation is required, said Head.
“It’s a program they use in federal courts a lot. ... They want to keep the docket clean,” Head said Monday morning before the hearing in Springfield.
He said that if there is a settlement, he will notify City Council members first.
Reinke did not return telephone calls or e-mails on Monday.
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