As we watch tonight’s All-Star game in Houston, don’t forget that next year’s game is in Detroit, a chance for the city, and its ballpark, to shine in the national spotlight before it hosts Super Bowl XL in 2006.

So, how are things going? The Detroit News has some answers in its package, Countdown to the ‘05 All-Star Game, which also includes previous stories hinting the city might fall short of its plans:

• Detroit has big to-do list for big game: Houston offers pointers on how to impress baseball fans — “If a city doesn’t know how to entertain its guests, they’ve dropped the ball.”
  
• Houston looks for image boost from tonight’s game: City expects to break even on All-Star Game, but gain more future investments — “The important thing is to show the media that progress is under way. This is not the Detroit of 10 years ago. We have a great story to tell.”
  
• And perhaps most importantly, a look-ahead at the home run derby in a pitcher’s park: Comerica will be fair to big hitters — “With how far some of these guys hit the ball, it doesn’t matter.”

The Free Press focuses on All-Star Ivan Rodriguez and the renaissance he’s fueled on the field: Rodriguez’s presence, attitude elevate franchise’s visibility

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