ESPN’s DESMOND HOWARD “spoke extensively” on Friday about a lawsuit he is facing from the photographer of his noted Heisman Trophy pose during the ’91 Michigan-Ohio State game. Howard said, “It's a picture of me, on my website. I'm not selling it. I'm not making any money off it.” Howard said that in recent years, he and photographer BRIAN MASCK “have discussed the photo, and even considered going into business together, though it never happened.” He added, "I'm sympathetic to the rights of artists, but I'm also sympathetic to the rights of college athletes and their likeness" (DETROIT FREE PRESS, 3/17).

THE CANDYMAN'S IN TOWN: Boston-based candy company Unreal has “launched a PR offensive” featuring Patriots QB TOM BRADY. He will be “among several A-list celebrities,” including fitness guru JILLIAN MICHAELS, singer JOHN LEGEND and actor LEONARDO DICAPRIO, “involved in the company’s so-called Easter Bunny Apology Tour.” Unreal “makes candy without corn syrup, hydrogenated oil, artificial flavors, GMO, or synthetic colors” (BOSTON GLOBE, 3/15).

NAMES: Broncos Owner PAT BOWLEN will be honored by the Mizel Institute, receiving the ’13 Community Enrichment Award at the institute’s May 22 Annual Gala Dinner (Broncos)….DR. FRANK JOBE, who developed the elbow procedure known as Tommy John surgery, will be honored during the Baseball HOF’s induction weekend on July 27 (AP, 3/15)….Dolphins equipment manager JOE CIMINO was named winner of the Whitey Zimmerman award as NFL Equipment Manager of the Year (Dolphins)….The Devils have been selected as a finalist in two categories for PR News’ inaugural Social Media Icon Awards. The franchise’s “Mission Control” digital communications center has a nominee in the Games category, with “New Jersey Devils Doodle Contest.” They are also nominated for Best Social Media Team (NORTHJERSEY.com, 3/15)….The town of Cairo, Ga., renamed its Boys & Girls Club the Jackie Robinson Boys & Girls Club (MLB.com, 3/16).