The city of Mesa has proposed building a new $24M stadium
and training complex for the Cubs.  The teams spring training
lease in Mesa expires after next year and the city wants to keep
the team in the area.  The cost of the complex will be split
between the city and the Maricopa County Stadium District.  Mesa
Mayor Willie Wong said the city won't need a tax increase, but
the "biggest hurdle" could be funds from the Stadium District
through a county-wide surcharge on rental car contracts (ARIZONA
REPUBLIC, 11/30).

     The Cardinals are considering installing a grass field at
Busch Stadium.  Cardinals CEO Mark Lamping said a decision is
expected within two weeks.  Lamping: "Our fans think it would be
a great idea, and we are doing all the research necessary to make
a decision."  George Toma, field consultant to the team, said he
believes the team would "do well to convert" (Dan O'Neill, ST.
LOUIS POST DISPATCH, 12/1).

     Officials at SMU will announce Friday what facility will be
the future home to their football program.  The choice between
the Cotton Bowl and Texas Stadium will come only after the
school's athletic subcommittee makes a recommendation to SMU's
full board of trustees on Friday.  (Steve Davis, DALLAS MORNING
NEWS, 11/30).