This article, in briefly skimming it (which is all the time it's worth, IMO), appears to say "these folks need a friggin miracle right now, but it's not gonna happen, so start up the moving buses" without any recognizable research or up to date information about the real situations and chances of avoiding relocation. Pisses me off that this is apparently the best this guy could do and that Soccernet thought it worthy to have as the big headline column. Anyway, here's the link: http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=350735&root=mls&cc=5901
Well, duh. And you can say the same thing about every other franchise. Without an owner controlled SSS they'll likely never turn a profit. But it's easier to pick on KC and SJ.
Maybe it's just me, but I believe EVERY other team in the league has their own stadium, or a proposed stadium, if not a contract to build one (Kraft owns the Razor and the Revs, so technically they have their own stadium even if they share it, because they control the revenues). SJ and KC are the only two left. Like it or not, that says something right there.
It seems to me, though, that an article on potential MLS relocation would require research into where the two situations are at right now and how likely or unlikely it is that the relocations will occur. Just saying "get out the boxes and warm up the vans" doesn't educate the reader in any way as to what the actual situation in SJ and KC with ongoing negotions to justify his statements. That's where I feel this writer fails the reader.
I love the analysis of why Lamar decided to sell. "What's the point?" The point is a shiny new Arrowhead for the Chiefs at taxpayer expense.
For one thing, Kansas City and San Jose have not "had their chance" to build stadiums. In 10 years of ownership, HSG never put out an RFP for a stadium. They commissioned one report, then backed down on including it as part of BiState II when the Royals objected. When they had restarted the process, behind closed doors, BiState II failed, and we all know what happened. We have interested locales, but they need to know that there's a team with an owner.
If the "apartment" is what I think it is, I've been in part of it - it's on the backside of his luxury box. Lamar definitely has a sweet setup inside the stadium.
I had the opportunity to visit it and go upstairs where his memorabilia is on display. I also got to touch MLS Cup One room upstairs had a bunch of unsorted stuff with piles of programmes, giveaways, autographed NFL helmets, gameballs, etc. Just piled up on tables and on the floor. He also has a display of old toys and sporting games which was very cool. The Toy and Miniature Museum would probably kill for some of that stuff. I didn't see any temperature, light and humidity controls though