In L.A., Frank Shyong writes, “In the first major legal challenge to a planned NFL stadium in downtown Los Angeles, a coalition of environmental activists and community advocates filed suit Thursday claiming that a state law intended to assist the project is unconstitutional.” AEG had “successfully lobbied for passage of the law.” AEG VP/Communications Michael Roth said the coalition is trying to “undermine the state's legislative will" and he was "highly confident in the legality" of the law crafted for the project (L.A. TIMES, 8/31).
SHAKE, RATTLE & ROLL: MLS Earthquakes President David Kaval said that the team is “negotiating with three Fortune 100 companies to secure a lucrative naming rights deal” for its new soccer stadium. Kaval said that interest in naming rights "took off after last week's announcement that the team would begin construction with a groundbreaking ceremony Oct. 21.” In San Jose, Elliott Almond notes Kaval “declined to identify the companies but said some are involved in technology” (SAN JOSE MERCURY NEWS, 8/31).
NO SLEEP TIL BROOKLYN? Nets and Barclays Center CEO Brett Yormark said that arena execs "'remain very interested' in a possible relocation of the Islanders to Brooklyn in 2015 if no deal is reached to remain in Nassau.” Yormark said, “Discussions are continuing, although the goal at this point is to work with what we have on our schedule.” NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly said a move by the Islanders to Brooklyn remains "an intriguing possibility." Daly: "But there's a lot of road between here and there” (NEWSDAY, 8/31).
ON THE RAY-DAR: In Tampa, Mark Puente notes the pitch for a new Rays stadium will come on Sept. 28, when residents and city officials "will get to see the proposal from CityScape, a firm owned by real estate developer Darryl LeClair.” The location of the meeting is “still a matter of debate.” Rays officials said that they “will attend.” The County Commission “also has been invited” (TAMPA BAY TIMES, 8/31).
