Proposed casino name causes concern for one group - KPTV - FOX 12
Member Center:
It's not even built yet and already a proposed casino has gotten into some trouble over the use of a name.
A national organization is against the proposed casino and threatened a lawsuit against The Grange in Wood Village.
The group said the casino is using its trademarked name and never asked for permission to use it.
Both sides reached an agreement that allows developers to continue using the name until the November election.
Ever since the announcement was made of the proposed development, ads for The Grange have flooded the airwaves.
The development proposes to build a multi-use entertainment complex that would include a casino.
Developers are trying to get voters to approve the casino this November.
The name The Grange caused some concern for a national group known as the National Grange, which owns that name.
They said the casino would damage the reputation of the nonprofit organization.
"We felt that we were definitely harmed by this by this association and it was certainly not our choice and it was certainly a surprise to us," said Susan Noah, the president of the Oregon State Grange.
The National Grange had been in talks with the casino after it threatened to file a lawsuit in order to protect the trademarked name.
On Wednesday, both sides reached an agreement which allows the casino to keep using the name until the November election.
However; the casino has to include a disclaimer on anything associated with the proposed development.
"We hope this disclaimer will ensure voters understand there is no affiliation between the National Grange and the proposed casino," said Ed Luttrell, National Grange president.
A representative with The Grange said they have apologized for using the name and are pleased both sides could reach an agreement.
"We hope this resolution will allow the public to continue to see the Grange as a community organization, steeped in family values, that is not involved in a proposed casino project in Oregon," added Luttrell.
The National Grange was established in the late 1800s and it was developed to help communities across the country.
One of the projects they tackle each year is to provide supplies to schools in need.
If the measure passes in November, both sides will have to reevaluate the name.
The National Grange president said using of the name after the election could be conditional following a license agreement that is developed between both sides.
If the national group doesn't agree to the terms, the casino may have to change its name completely.
Copyright 2012 KPTV (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved.
 | 
|
