SPALDING! JUDGE RULES AGAINST CALLAWAY IN BALL DISPUTE

          U.S. District Judge Alicemarie Stotler ruled yesterday
     against Callaway Golf Co., saying that "there was no
     consumer confusion created" by Spalding's ad campaign for
     its new Top-Flite balls, according to Ron Sirak of the AP. 
     Callaway filed suit asking for a court order "stopping
     Spalding from using Callaway's trademarks and images on its
     packaging."  Spalding's promo material claims that its Top-
     Flite Ball/Club System C ball is designed for "maximum
     performance when used with" Callaway's Great Big Bertha
     drivers.  John Hoagland, Managing Dir of Spalding's Golf
     Ball Division, said Judge Stotler "complimented Spalding on
     innovative marketing."  Spalding plans to ship the balls
     next week.  Sirak writes that Callaway "is not out of legal
     options" and is likely to "continue with its effort to stop"
     the Top-Flite ball.  Callaway VP/Advertising & PR Larry
     Dorman: "The court has left the door open for us to come
     back with evidence of consumer confusion or evidence that
     the product does not do what it says" (AP/DET. NEWS, 3/3). 
     For news on Callaway Golf's earnings report, see (#20).