NY couple files to trademark "Occupy Wall St."

NEW YORK - A Long Island couple has filed to trademark the Occupy Wall Street movement's name, to capitalize on what they said was its potential as a "global brand."

The filing was first reported by The Smoking Gun website.

In a U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) application dated Oct. 18, Robert and Diane Maresca sought to trademark the phrase "Occupy Wall St." for use on bumper stickers, hobo bags, gym bags, back packs, carry-ons, umbrellas, clothing and footwear.

Robert Maresca, a former ironworker who describes himself as pro-union, told The Smoking Gun he became interested in Occupy Wall Street after union members began showing up at the protesters' encampment in Zuccotti Park.

Asked if his trademark filing was a "crass attempt" to cash in on an anti-corporate movement, Robert Maresca told The Smoking Gun no, but noted that his was a practical move: "If I didn't buy it and use it, someone else will."

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The Patent Office database shows filings have also been made for Occupy D.C. 2012; 99%er; and both I am the 99% and We Are The 99%.

Maresca told The Smoking Gun said, after coming across the "We Are The 99%" filing, he believed that "Occupy" would prove to be "a more powerful brand."