Emanuel Pokes Stick In Eye Of Tampa Bay Lightning Owners

By John Dodge

CHICAGO (CBS) -- For a man who once sent a dead fish to a political operative, taunting the owners of the Tampa Bay Lightning just seems compulsory for Rahm Emanuel.

Taking full political advantage of Tampa's silly policy of prohibiting Blackhawks gear inside their arena (in certain sections), the mayor of Chicago not only called the team owner's chicken, but then politely invited their fans to come on up and enjoy the city.

And, presumably, enjoy a beat down at the hands of Toews, Kane et. al., too.

"Chicago Blackhawks supporters are known to be among the best in the NHL, and certainly we wish the Tampa Bay Lightning management would welcome Chicago fans to their city and not be afraid to let them into their arena for the Stanley Cup Final," Emanuel said in a statement.

"As Mayor of Chicago, I welcome Tampa fans – and hockey fans from around the country – to fly to Chicago and enjoy our world-class hotels, restaurants, cultural attractions, and then go watch Stanley Cup hockey in Chicago. It doesn't get any better than that."

Emanuel is no stranger to the United Center, even pounding on the glass at a playoff game last year.

The mayor didn't take to kindly to critics of his apparel that day, either.

CBS 2's Dana Kozlov reports any Lightning fans coming to Chicago won't be able to gear up at Gunzo's Sports Center. The only Lightning item they have is a game puck.

Ticket broker Steve Buzil says he has had only five Lightening fans call him, and only one bought tickets. He does expect there to be plenty of Hawks fans in Tampa.

"I would say there is a minimum three to four thousand going," said Buzil.