OUTLOOK GOOD FOR NEW ORLEANS ARENA

     Both lobbyists and legislators agree that LA Gov. Edwin
Edwards will "slam dunk" any attempt to stop the proposed $84M
multi-purpose arena next to the Superdome, according to Randy
McClain of NEW ORLEANS CITY BUSINESS.  State Sen. John Hainkel:
"I fully expect the arena will go forward before the end of Gov.
Edward's term.  He knows the next governor will stop it."  Those
who support the plan argue the facility will attract an NHL or
NBA franchise.  Saints Owner Tom Benson has confirmed that he is
"in the market" for an NBA expansion team, if one is offered by
the league soon.  Tulane University has also expressed interest
in the arena, and has gone so far as to hire a lobbyist to fight
any anti-arena legislation during the current legislative session
(Randy McClain, NEW ORLEANS CITY BUSINESS, 5/8-14 issue).