Judge denies IPA motion for restraining order

In the Circuit Court of the Seventh Judicial Circuit in Springfield on Monday, Judge Patrick Kelley denied a motion by the Illinois Press Association seeking a temporary restraining order in the matter of the Illinois High School Association's media photography policy concerning the use of photos taken at state series events.

In a release put out by the IHSA late Monday afternoon, the association said the judge determined there was no emergency in this particular case.

The IHSA 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 in place at Illinois State University, the University of Illinois and the Big Ten, among others.

In papers filed with the court Monday, 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."

Judge Kelley encouraged both sides to enter into discussions in an effort to settle the issues.

The Daily Herald is a member of the IPA, and Daily Herald Publisher & CEO Doug Ray is a member of the IPA's board of directors.