BUCS IN DIRE STRAITS AGAIN AS SENATE ALTERS STADIUM DEAL

     The proposed Bucs stadium tax suffered a serious blow in the
FL Senate that "ultimately could kill a deal to keep the team in
Tampa," according to this morning's TAMPA TRIBUNE.  A Senate
panel rejected a measure allowing Hillsborough County residents
to vote on a rental car tax to raise up to $8M a year toward the
new $168M stadium.  Instead, the committee amended the bill to
allow a property tax increase, which local leaders believe would
be "soundly defeated at the polls."  Bucs Exec VP Joel Glazer,
son of Owner Malcolm Glazer, called the move "very
disappointing," but added there was still time left in the
session.  The original bill could still pass on the Senate
through amendments, but sponsor John Grant called that "nearly
impossible."  Asked about the city's next move, Tampa Mayor Dick
Greco: "Help them pack" (TAMPA TRIBUNE, 4/23).