The New York Times is reporting that New York City has reversed its original opinion about whether it or the soon-to-be-ousted lessee of the building owns the trademark “Tavern on the Green.” According to the article (registration required), when the City originally put the lease out for bids it said that it could not convey the name. It now appears to be reconsidering that position.
The current operator, which has a federal registration for the name, filed for bankruptcy on September 9 (S.D.N.Y. Docket No 09-15450-alg). The $19 million trademark is the most valuable asset it has – or doesn’t have.
Who do you think owns it? Take the poll on the right.
Photo by Erin.kkr, text © 2009 Pamela Chestek
