In Tampa, Jamal Thalji reports Lightning Owner Jeff Vinik now owns the city's downtown outdoor Channelside Mall, "thanks to the last-second settlement that ended the yearlong court fight" over the property. The deal was "hammered out Sunday night and approved Monday by a bankruptcy judge." Vinik's plans for the area "have been the subject of much speculation," but the specifics "have been kept close to the vest." Vinik "may finally be ready to reveal his plans -- and implement them" now that he owns the land (TAMPA BAY TIMES, 7/22).
THE GAMBLER: Developer Justin Findlay said that he expects the "price, financing plan and proposed public contribution" for his company's proposed MLS stadium in Las Vegas "to be ready on Aug. 6." In Las Vegas, Alan Snel notes Findlay Sports & Entertainment is partnering with Cordish Cos. on the stadium proposal, "which is scheduled to be discussed at a city council meeting on Aug. 20" (LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL, 7/22).
SAFE AT HOME: In New Jersey, Mark Daniels reported Phillies fans last night "were greeted by new security measures in the form of walk-through metal detectors at the right-field gates of Citizens Bank Park." The metal detectors are "part of a pilot program." Phillies Dir of Operations & Security Sal DeAngelis said, "Next year, we expect that metal detectors will be at all entrance gates." Daniels notes the added security will be "in addition to the standard pat downs and bag checks" (SOUTH JERSEY TIMES, 7/22).
LET THERE BE LIGHT: In Raleigh, Chip Alexander reports the Hurricanes will add LED lighting this fall, and the new system at PNC Arena will be "in place and operational" for the team's Sept. 21 preseason opener. PNC Arena GM Dave Olsen said the system would provide Hurricanes and N.C. State men's basketball games a "cleaner light while also reducing our energy and maintenance costs" (Raleigh NEWS & OBSERVER, 7/22).
