Texas district battles over school trademark issue

The Judson (Texas) Independent School District — a football powerhouse with six state titles to its name — may end an agreement that allows local retailers to sell merchandise touting the district's two high schools, but first district leaders need to settle the issue of who owns the rights to the Judson Rockets' name. The district took action several years ago to protect the use of the phrase “Judson Rockets.” But the district's trademark for the Rockets eventually lapsed, and a Judson Booster Club volunteer, Alan Caudell, filed for it himself, making it unclear who has the right to market Judson gear. Booster club organizers, including Caudell, aren't happy with Judson merchandise being sold in local stores, arguing it cuts into club sales.