PR Move of the Day. The Chicago Blackhawks brought John McDonough from Wrigley Field to work his magic and revive one of the NHL's Original Six…some clear messages this week, especially in Tuesday's Chicago Sun Times, show that McDonough and the organization are looking for ways outside of the traditional to identify and reinvigorate new fans through technology. McDonough, who also put the Blackhawks firmly in the mix for an outdoor game a few weeks ago, has always been one of those top execs who “get” what the fans want and need, and his tonic is paying off with clear messaging to the Chicago hockey audience, and the rabid sports fan of the Windy City as well.?
Some other articles along the reinvigoration front…a few teams that have hit hard times went front and center with their owners the last few days, sending very clear messages to their fans that they understand the issue.and that better days are ahead…Dan LeBatard in the Miami Herald did a q and a with the Suns Mickey Arison, the Sacramento Bee's Dorsey Griffith spent time both in print and video with the King.Gavin Maloof, and the Atlanta Journal Constitution did a lengthy sitdown with Atlanta Spirit ownerit a coincidence that these three are taking the time to address the fans with the largest outlet in their market at this time of yea.? Probably not, as the NBA marketing machine is moving more in unison with its teams this time of year than ever before. But the message is clear. We as owners are here for you, we feel your pain and we support you. Great stance, with probably more to come, for renewal time.NASCAR in a few weeks, but this week's Broadcasting and Cable has a cover story on how the sport is bouncing back already, with a strong early start to the season.nice length feature in the New York Times o.UCLA by John Branch is worth a read, while the Baltimore Sun has a good piece on the value of exposure to local schools like UMBC and Mt. St. Mary's.