ON THE PROWL ... PREDATORS OWNER MAY BUY SHARE OF AFL TEAM

          Predators Owner Craig Leipold "acknowledged he is
     interested in acquiring" part ownership of the AFL Kats, "a 
     move that would fortify" his control of the Nasvhille Arena,
     according to Andrew Humbles of the Nashville TENNESSEAN. 
     Kats majority Owner Mark Bloom said that he and Leipold
     "have discussed the possibility" of Leipold's financial
     investment.  Humbles adds that "it is likely Leipold would
     seek controlling interest" of the Kats.  The average value
     of an AFL team is $7M, but the Kats' is "somewhat higher
     because of above-average attendance" (TENNESSEAN, 7/13).
          ON FIRE? In Portland, Kerry Eggers wrote after
     attending an AFL Forest Dragons game that the AFL "has
     evolved into a better game than it was at its inception in
     1985, and it is going to get better.  For now, the league
     could cut down on the schlock and allow the game to sell
     itself."  Forest Dragons Owner Ed Gatlin: "We will go with
     public opinion.  If we have a majority griping about
     something, we take a look at it" (Portland OREGONIAN, 7/12).