Shed A Tier

CSTV's Brian Bedol Chimes  In At SMT Conference

With channels like NFL Network and Big Ten Network still fighting for carriage on cable systems, top sports business execs, to kick off the Fantasy Sports Association Sports Media & Technology Conference in N.Y., outline where the industry currently stands on the issue of sports tiers.  Meanwhile, there is plenty more to be discussed at the Westin N.Y. over the next two days as Raycom has a deal to acquire Lincoln Financial Group's sports syndication business; Gary Bettman is set to host a weekly show on XM Radio; ESPN hires Mark Fainaru-Wada away from the S.F. Chronicle; columnists weigh in on the talent calling NFL games this year; and social networking becomes a larger part of team and league marketing efforts. 

Package Deal 
DHL looking to secure IOC sponsorship for 2010 Vancouver and 2012 London Games.

Sole Session 
Reebok launching branded entertainment show on IFC  featuring celebrities interviewing company’s athletes.

Healthy Sum 
Atlantic Health’s 12-year naming-rights deal for Jets’ new $75M practice facility in Florham Park reportedly worth more than $25M.

Playing Defense
Washington Gov. Gregoire says she's "optimistic" about keeping Sonics in Seattle in first response to David Stern’s criticism of region.

Approach Shot
PGA Tour outlines changes to FedEx Cup.

Kicking Back 
Peter Wilt resigns from group trying to bring MLS team, soccer stadium to Milwaukee.

Flash Forward 
WMA signs Heat G Dwyane Wade for marketing, entertainment work.

Tipping Their Caps 
Chargers Owner Alex Spanos, Pacers co-Owner Mel Simon near $108,200 cap on federal campaign contributions for '08.