Quote of the Day
“This is going to sound odd, but Elton John's going to help us win some ballgames. It's a weird way to look at it, but those three concerts are going to generate enough revenue."
-- Cubs Chair Crane Kenney, on the Chicago City Council approving three summer concerts at Wrigley Field (Illinois DAILY HERALD, 3/19).
Top Stories
Speed Of Sounders
It is hard to recall a franchise opening to more positive PR than the Seattle Sounders FC, who make their MLS debut tonight at Qwest Field before an expected crowd of 32,000. The franchise has done virtually everything right so far, and the press clips prove it. Look at the highlights: allowing fans to name the franchise; creating a fan-based Alliance Club; setting up a plan to allow fans to vote on the GM; touting a season-ticket base of 22,000; having Drew Carey provide national PR plugs; and providing the smarts of the Seahawks organization behind it. Sounders GM Adrian Hanauer said the reaction has “blown me away.” Even the media seems swayed, and not just the locals. Yes, the SEATTLE TIMES writes the franchise has "made all the right moves," but the WASHINGTON TIMES' Todd Dybas writes the "high enthusiasm … has emerged thanks to a near seamless marketing effort and pent-up fandom."
March To The Motor City
March Madness is underway: CBS offers myriad ways to access content; Nike again outfits the most teams; will fans show in Miami?
A Mighty Wind
Cubs developing new Wrigley restaurant, hosting concerts to bring in more revenue.
Busch Light
Temporary projects at St. Louis' Ballpark Village beg the question: will it ever be built?
It's A Small World After All?
WBC builds momentum from U.S. comeback win, but not enough to attract serious fan support.
War Of Words
IOC threatens to end revenue-sharing deal with USOC as the two organizations continue their contentious battle.
Getting In Line, Online
WMG's Sportnet merges with GrindTV to create digital network of action sports Web sites.
Beefing Up The Roster
Real Salt Lake adds big deals with JetBlue, Burger King to growing sponsorship portfolio.
Forward Progress
With ESPN's BCS rights starting in '11, will net look to buy out Fox' last year?
