SUPPORT FOR NEW ASTROS STADIUM HITS AIRWAVES

     The first TV ad aired Monday in support of a proposal to
spend more than $450M for a new Astros stadium and Astrodome
renovations, according to Armando Villafranca of the HOUSTON
CHRONICLE.  The 30-second spot for Proposition One on the
November 5 ballot tells viewers that "costs will fall on team
owners, private business, fans and tax on car rentals."  Houston
Mayor Bob Lanier, who is shown seated behind his desk, says, "No
property tax, no general sales tax, teams must sign 30-year
leases. I think it's a good play." Villafranca writes Harris
County Citizens for Proposition One has spent $150,000 to air the
ads through mid-October, and the group's "goal" is to raise
$750,000 and to air "several more" TV spots, including a Spanish-
language version.  Villafranca notes one spot "being considered"
will show new stadiums built in other cities with voter support.
In addition, former Astros pitcher Nolan Ryan is being considered
for an ad (HOUSTON CHRONICLE, 10/7).