In observance of Columbus Day, The Sports Business Daily will not publish on Monday, October 8. We will return on Tuesday, October 9. Have a nice weekend.

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Virginia Is For Lovers

Hampton Roads officials say that yesterday's meeting in N.Y. with Hornets co-Owner Ray Wooldridge and two team attorneys "went well, but acknowledged that a number of obstacles remain in trying to lure" the team to the city, according to Harry Minium of the VIRGINIAN-PILOT, who notes George Shinn was absent from the meeting. Meanwhile, THE BUSINESS JOURNAL OF CHARLOTTE reports the Hornets are losing several corporate partners, including grocery store chain Harris Teeter, a team sponsor since '88.

The Eye Has 'Em
Boosted by strong AFC teams, CBS' NFL coverage pulls even with big-market-heavy Fox.

Their Name In Lights?
CART CEO Heitzler says new engines, similar to IRL's, not an opportunity for merger.

On Track
Despite events of September 11, Canadian TV execs say cuts not on horizon, as revenue projections on target.

Damage Control
MLB supplying teams with beer-branded plastic covering to protect player lockers from damage during celebrations.

Might As Well Go For Soda
NFL partner Coca-Cola takes Lambeau Leap, ousts RC Cola as Packers soft drink sponsor.

Still Up In The Air
Marketers debate MJ's impact.

Now Is Not The Time
Columnist criticizes American Airlines for "vanity" sports marketing while asking for billions in federal aid.

Jays Have Got The $$ Blues?
Rogers Communications reportedly eyeing partners for Blue Jays, as team to lose C$50M this season.