Facility Notes

In S.F., C.W. Nevius reports at yesterday’s annual football booster luncheon held by the S.F. Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) delivered an “impassioned plea" to 49ers co-Owner John York to accept the city’s plan for a new stadium and keep the team within the city limits while York “sat stone-faced at his table, just a few feet away.” Feinstein said during her speech, “John York, it is all up to you. All you have to do is say, ‘Yes.’” Feinstein later said, "I think there is reason for concern in Santa Clara. One way or another it seems it is going to have to go to the ballot and there is some question as to whether the citizens are willing to pay" (S.F. CHRONICLE, 8/30).

DEVILS IN THE DETAILS: Prudential Center and the Tri-State Lincoln Mercury Dealers named Ford Lincoln Mercury (FLM) as the arena's exclusive auto partner. FLM receives entitlement rights to the parking deck and luxury suite levels, as well as signage for all events at the arena and use of team marks and logos for the Devils and MISL New Jersey Ironmen. FLM will display vehicles in the arena and parking areas, and there will be signage on dasher boards and on-ice for Devils games (Lincoln Mercury).

GIVE ME LIBERTY: In Memphis, David Williams reported SMG officials will serve as on-site consultants at the Liberty Bowl this season, “with a goal of taking over operations” in ’08. Meanwhile, changes at the stadium include a $1M-plus restroom renovation on the lower concourse and upgraded concession stands on the lower concourse (COMMERCIAL APPEAL, 8/29).