RIPKEN STREAK CAUSING A FIRE ON THE MARKETING MOUNTAIN

     Cal Ripken Jr's "predicted publicity bonanza" as he closes
in on Lou Gehrig's consecutive game streak is examined by Michael
Hiestand of USA TODAY.  The Tufton Group, the MD-based firm who
handles Ripken's marketing, say there are "already about 30
Ripken licensees," but that they hope to "close breakthrough
national deals with a car maker, cereal and apparel maker" The
Curtis Management Group, a division of the Indianapolis-based CMG
Worldwide who represent Gehrig, is offering increased licensing
and marketing opportunities during Ripken's run at the streak.
Hiestand reports Curtis Management has "recently signed about a
dozen Gehrig licensees" (USA TODAY, 8/10).