Iowa's governor and media beg to differ. Information begins to trickle in regarding San Francisco's 4-time rejection of stadium extortion attempts, primarily through the efforts of journalist John Yewell, writing in the alternative weekly The Reader. There is also some coverage of Bud Selig's strong-arming of Milwaukee but not much coverage of other stadium scams around the country. Among other things, he organizes and hosts an open forum at the Mall of America. The Star Tribune continues to stump for maximum subsidy.
Bills churn in committee.
Subsidy opponent Jon Commers organizes a Capitol presentation by three noted economists who explain to legislators the economic mythology of sports stadiums, notably the fact that study after study shows that economic benefits are near nil. Ricky Rask continues to testify in committee, along with Commers, Moberg and a long list of others. House Republicans speak out in the media, including Kevin Knight and Phil Krinkie. The House Local Government and Metropolitan Affairs Committee votes 10 to 9 against the main stadium bill, a surprising and unexpected setback for Pohlad, the Governor and chief sponsor Rep Ann Rest. A top aid for Governor Carlson, and Chairwoman Rest, who controls the committee agenda, vow to keep the bill alive.