The Astros have retained NJ-based Integrated Sports
     Int'l (ISI) for new business development in sponsorship
     sales, marketing and strategic consultation.  ISI will work
     in conjunction with the team in identifying and developing
     strategic marketing programs for corporate partners, both at
     the Astrodome as well as the new ballpark, which is slated
     to open in Downtown Houston in April 2000.  In addition to
     the Astros, ISI also serves as a marketing rep to the 49ers, 
     Angels, Broncos, Pacers and Chargers among others (ISI).

          On Long Island, James Bernstein reports that N.Y.
     Sports Ventures Owners Howard Milstein and Steven Gluckstern
     "are stepping up a behind-the-scenes campaign to gain
     control of a multimillion-dollar contract to manage a new
     Nassau Coliseum," and are "said to be seeking to oust" PA-
     based SMG, which has the management contract through 2015. 
     In addition, the Coliseum's GM Lance Elder has resigned, and
     a replacement search is underway (NEWSDAY, 5/19)....In San
     Antonio, Poling & Orsborn reported that expanding Freeman
     Coliseum to fit 20,000 people and 78 luxury suites would
     cost up to $109M, a figure Freeman board members "find
     staggering and that could prompt the county to instead build
     a new arena" for the Spurs (SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS, 5/16).