Bring the New Orleans Hornets to St. Louis

TO: Mr. David Stern, Commissioner of the National Basketball Association







RE: Hurricane Katrina's effect on the NBA







As the nation watches the tragedy in the Gulf Coast states, we pause to reflect on how fortunate we all are. I thank you for encouraging your players and teams to become involved in helping the thousands of people whose lives have been affected by this disaster.







As you know, it is almost certain that the professional sports teams that are located in New Orleans will not be able to function normally under these circumstances. It is with this in mind that I offer the following suggestion:







Have St. Louis, Missouri host the New Orleans Hornets for the 2005-06 season.







I do not have any financial implications in this scenario. I only offer the invitation as a life-long NBA fan, and a proud citizen of St. Louis. The city is vibrant, there are thousands of basketball fans, and the city has a history of basketball success. St. Louis is a sports town, as is evident by the Cardinals, Rams, and Blues attendance, and the history of success of those franchises. We have had NBA, ABA, and NBDL teams here before.







I only ask that you consider this as a serious option, as you decide the fate of the New Orleans franchise with its owners. I firmly believe that the benefit that this option allows would lead to positive experiences for everone involved.