Lakeland to announce new name/logo on 11/11 [Archive]

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rw_dc

11-08-2006, 12:03 PM

I remember reading something awhile back about the possibility of this happening, and it will be official on Saturday.

Lakeland, FL (November 6, 2006) - The Lakeland Tigers will be hosting a press conference on Saturday, November 11 at 9:00 am at Joker Marchant Stadium to announce the new team name and logo.
Source: OurSports Central (http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3393316)

Johnny Mac

11-08-2006, 12:09 PM

no more lakeland tigers?

slim pickens

11-08-2006, 12:58 PM

Hueytaxi must have some insider input for us.........just give us a hint!

Euphdude

11-08-2006, 01:26 PM

I've got the perfect name for them...

The LAKELAND TIGERS.

Yoda

11-08-2006, 01:42 PM

I've got the perfect name for them...

The LAKELAND TIGERS.

That makes too much sense. No need to make things simple.

84 Lives!!!

11-08-2006, 02:35 PM

How about the Lakeland Lovechilds?

MotownWebGuy

11-08-2006, 02:46 PM

Doing a little WHOIS search showed the following domains still available:

LakelandFlyingTigers.com, .net, .org
LakelandSwans.com, .net, .org

So it doesn't look to be one of those two names.

Johnny Mac

11-08-2006, 02:58 PM

if maybin is there at all next year it will be the Lakeland Maybins

209A12

11-08-2006, 03:06 PM

How 'bout a chopper for a logo and call them
"The Lakeland Hueys"

hueytaxi

11-08-2006, 05:11 PM

Hueytaxi must have some insider input for us.........just give us a hint!
http://motownsports.com/forums/showthread.php?t=42957
Thread 36 from yesterday

hueytaxi

11-08-2006, 05:30 PM

I have no insider info. Rojas asked me if it would be the Flying Tigers; I'm leaning toward something like the Sky Cats or Swamp Cats (no earthly reason).

dt35456884

11-08-2006, 05:40 PM

My only guess is that it will be something horrible and groan-inducing. Maybe even as bad as the Great Lakes Loons.

grandma g

11-08-2006, 06:40 PM

Maybe the Lakeland Swans could mate with the Great Lakes Loons ?!@"!?#:!

whitecapwendy

11-08-2006, 07:11 PM

Maybe the Lakeland Swans could mate with the Great Lakes Loons ?!@"!?#:!
So............ the result would be the swaloons?

rw_dc

11-09-2006, 05:00 PM

It will be the Lakeland Flying Tigers. (You were a little early on your "WHOIS-ing", MWG :happy:)

Registrant:
Detroit Tigers
2125 North Lake Ave.
Lakeland, Florida 33805
United States

Registered through: GoDaddy.com, Inc. (http://www.godaddy.com)
Domain Name: LAKELANDFLYINGTIGERS.COM
Created on: 08-Nov-06
Expires on: 08-Nov-11
Last Updated on:

Administrative Contact:
Follett, Shannon shannon.follett@detroittigers.com
Detroit Tigers
2125 North Lake Ave.
Lakeland, Florida 33805
United States
(863) 686-8075 Fax -- (863) 688-9589

Technical Contact:
Choti, Joe joe.choti@mlb.com
Major League Baseball
75 9th Ave.
New York, New York 10011
United States
2124853464 Fax --

hueytaxi

11-09-2006, 05:28 PM

That could be a coup...just forwarded a copy to Shannon to see if I get a reaction. I don't think she reads the forum, thought she is aware of it.

LkldDave

11-09-2006, 07:03 PM

That could be a coup...just forwarded a copy to Shannon to see if I get a reaction. I don't think she reads the forum, thought she is aware of it.

Not with a 3 year purchase of the name Roger...bet the announcement Saturday will truly be the Flying Tigers.

The bright side is it could be worse...

hueytaxi

11-09-2006, 07:59 PM

Not with a 3 year purchase of the name Roger...bet the announcement Saturday will truly be the Flying Tigers.

The bright side is it could be worse...Not sure if I understoood your comment, but I hope it is the Flying Tigers and you are right about "worse".

209A12

11-09-2006, 10:11 PM

If they play good baseball, they can call themselves the "Waltzing Matildas", for all I care. I'll buy a ticket, a hat, and a beer, and hope for the best.

MotownWebGuy

11-09-2006, 10:29 PM

Damn, I could have grabbed it...

Shaggy Ry

11-09-2006, 10:36 PM

I can't believe they waited so late in the game to register the website - probably so it wouldn't leak. However since the Flying Tigers was rumored as a possibility you'd think somebody would have squatted, though I believe those laws have been tightened considerably.

How much does it cost? like $50 bucks or something - why not register 5-6 frontrunner possibilities if you want to make the announcement a surprise?

209A12

11-09-2006, 10:42 PM

It's all about money, isn't it? Forget the hat, I'll have a hot dog and a beer.

MotownWebGuy

11-09-2006, 10:43 PM

How much does it cost? like $50 bucks or something - why not register 5-6 frontrunner possibilities if you want to make the announcement a surprise?They used GoDaddy.com to register the domain, which is $8.95 per year. They registered LakelandFlyingTigers.com for a total of 5 years. It could be a cleaver ruse, but I doubt they'd go 5 years on the domain. But then again, maybe that's what they want you to think. :ponder:

hueytaxi

11-09-2006, 10:48 PM

Funny they use .net for everything else, and their old host is still using thir home page in their ads, though not in their specific offers (smartlizard.com)

Charles Liston

11-09-2006, 10:52 PM

In the early 1970's a group of businessmen in Toronto were putting together a bid to buy the San Francisco Giants, who were continually the subject of sale/move discussions for a few years back then. Their bid was pretty well organized except for one thing, they forgot to register the trademark "Toronto Giants". Some guy who wasn't part of the bid registered the name and made them look silly. He said all he'd want from them was a pair of season tickets.

MotownWebGuy

11-09-2006, 10:53 PM

Funny they use .net for everything else, and their old host is still using thir home page in their ads, though not in their specific offers (smartlizard.com)I believe they (Lakeland Tigers) used .net because someone else already registered the .com version before them. However, a WHOIS search shows that LakelandTigers.com is owned by MLB and was registered before the .net version. So I'm not really sure the reason why they used .net instead.

I'm sure SmartLizard.com will continue to use their homepage in their ads since it is part of their design portfolio and always will be. It's a big name client.

potthole

11-10-2006, 11:41 AM

Does the name "Flying Tigers" have any reference/connection to the WWII flight group? (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flying_Tigers)

tiger337

11-10-2006, 11:54 AM

My only guess is that it will be something horrible and groan-inducing. Maybe even as bad as the Great Lakes Loons.

The Great Lake Sloons?

cruzer1

11-10-2006, 11:58 AM

I think the name infers to the anticipated arrivals of Maybin and Hernandez the next year or two.

Yoda

11-10-2006, 12:06 PM

For those that don't know, Lakeland has a history involving flight. Marchant Stadium served as an air base during WWII. And the airport here hosts the anual "Sun 'n Fun (http://www.sun-n-fun.org/content/)", which has one of the lagest air shows in the country, and has year-round events including a pretty cool museum. Aviation is a pretty big part of Lakeland.

columbus tiger

11-10-2006, 12:11 PM

You know the funny thing about the registration is they could have made it private for a few dollars more. If you look on the site, anyone who wants to remain anonymous in their registration can do so. In fact, GoDaddy really pushes it with anyone they talk to.

hueytaxi

11-10-2006, 08:23 PM

In communication with the staff of Lakeland, they would not confirm or deny this thread. I did find that they do check this site daily and with other things going on, missed this thread. Lakelandtigers is now in Ca. and the remaining staff I don't believe is registered here. I tried on my Dad's WWII leather flying helmet to wear tomorrow, but my ego would have stretched it to destruction. My big head and 60+ leather don't work. Hope it's cool enough for my flight jacket in the AM.

You know the new mascot has to be renamed from "Southpaw" to "Ace".

slim pickens

11-10-2006, 08:30 PM

I am not a fan of this. But since I dont live there, or attend games there, it dosent matter what I think!

fyrftrjim

11-10-2006, 08:56 PM

I'm not really a fan of this either, the Tigers were just fine. This is Ron Myers way of irritating the little fan base this team has in my opinion.

209A12

11-10-2006, 08:57 PM

You know the new mascot has to be renamed from "Southpaw" to "Ace".

"Top Kat"
"Aeropussy"
"Airball"

209A12

11-10-2006, 09:01 PM

I'm not really a fan of this either, the Tigers were just fine. This is Ron Myers way of irritating the little fan base this team has in my opinion.
Irritating, sir, is an understatement.

Zakk_Wylde

11-10-2006, 09:17 PM

You'd have to look hard to find a name worse than the Edmonton Cracker-Cats

209A12

11-10-2006, 10:10 PM

You'd have to look hard to find a name worse than the Edmonton Cracker-Cats
The Lakeland Quacker-Cats. But, that would be ducks instead of swans, a rather fowl faux pas, eh?

wingedwheel

11-11-2006, 09:27 AM

Well...?

whitecapwendy

11-11-2006, 10:04 AM

It will be a while. I am sure that Roger did not take his computer, but I am almost positive he took his camera. I expect that we will hear by early afternoon at the latest

LkldDave

11-11-2006, 11:01 AM

It will be a while. I am sure that Roger did not take his computer, but I am almost positive he took his camera. I expect that we will hear by early afternoon at the latest

It is official....The Lakeland Flying Tigers. And Roger was there with his trusty camera.

Drawings of the new uniforms and hats - rather nice. New roads will be a grayish tan - numbers and lettering will be military stencil style.

All in all - a nice ceremony even if the cover of the logo fell off prematurely.

Shaggy Ry

11-11-2006, 11:10 AM

So is the logo a cartoon tiger complete with goggles and a scarf flying in a WW era byplane?

LkldDave

11-11-2006, 11:13 AM

No its not. I'm sure Roger will have pictures of it later today. It's actually pretty impressive. A lot more meanacing than the Tiger wrapped around the Old English L.

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 11:15 AM

Stand by for more

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 12:18 PM

http://static.flickr.com/115/294547207_a82903fe5f_m.jpgAs the Lakeland Tigers have gone, the Lakeland Flying Tigers landed at the old Lodwick Field this morning. GM Zach Burek gave opening remarks.http://static.flickr.com/106/294546508_a930faf831_m.jpg And was folowed by Florida Director Ron Meyers who gave a history of Lodwick Field and the Flying Tigers.http://static.flickr.com/111/294546647_61570aa04a_m.jpg The Flying Tiger theme will be much more than a patch on a uniform. It will carry into the stadium and into all aspects of the Team. The away uniforms will be a khaki gray reminiscent of the old flight suits. The uniform numbers will be as those tail numbers on the old P-40 Warhawks. The "Skipper" Kevin Bradshaw http://static.flickr.com/107/294546829_396629d330_m.jpg will now be the "Commander" and carry scrambled eggs logo on the bill of his cap. The Mascot will be now known as ACE. I know I haven't hit half the information given out. They put on a good show this morning and I am very proud of their efforts. Here is a pic of the new cap http://static.flickr.com/113/294546348_c68c32c0fb_m.jpg.

Here is a link to more photos and larger resolution of the ones here. Also on display were a lot of the old pictures of Lodwick field if anyone is interested, just IM me. http://www.flickr.com/photos/hueytaxi/sets/72157594370506448/

And I should add, pix of the three available shirts are included. These should be available online as soon as the new website is up and running as well as the caps.

chuckles396

11-11-2006, 12:24 PM

That's a pretty cool looking logo.

Yoda

11-11-2006, 12:27 PM

Interesting. I don't like the hats, but I like the logo by itself.

http://static.flickr.com/115/294547207_a82903fe5f_b.jpg

fyrftrjim

11-11-2006, 12:27 PM

The logo and uniforms turn out better then I thought it would.

Yoda

11-11-2006, 12:28 PM

This isn't too bad either...

http://static.flickr.com/112/294547704_b90792d90a_b.jpg

Yoda

11-11-2006, 12:29 PM

I like the airplane logo better though..

http://static.flickr.com/105/294547756_e0086e3473_b.jpg

slim pickens

11-11-2006, 12:30 PM

Tiger Bats?

A Tiger with wings does not look good. I agree with Yoda, the one with the plane is much better.

fyrftrjim

11-11-2006, 12:30 PM

still don't think it will draw anymore fans that already show up to games

chuckles396

11-11-2006, 12:30 PM

Great pics!! I'm digging it. :cool:

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 12:31 PM

I had on my old flight jacket at first but left it in the car as too obvious and wanted the Staff to enjoy the day. I did include one hint the we had inside info on my hat which went unnoticed:http://static.flickr.com/100/294571117_cd29a7a092_m.jpg
I didn't have a P-40 and the P-47 never carried thoase colors, but wanted a flying tiger for today.

Charles Liston

11-11-2006, 12:35 PM

Looks pretty nice. You guys dodged a bullet down there, you could have had a team named the "Shimmering Turds" or one of those other cutesy minor league names. I don't like the logo style with the full-length tiger sideways, with the wings in the middle of his back...it looks like a dead tiger with angel wings. But the other stuff looks pretty good.

slim pickens

11-11-2006, 12:41 PM

I understand that the Tiger with wings, is old school fighter pilot logos, but I like this one better.

http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/5728/flyingtigerue3.png (http://imageshack.us)

chuckles396

11-11-2006, 12:44 PM

Interesting. I don't like the hats, but I like the logo by itself.

I just looked at the hats. They're okay I guess. The alternate one with wings on the bill is a little different.

slim pickens

11-11-2006, 12:49 PM

Here is the give-a-way on opening day:

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/3000/flyingtiger2he8.png (http://imageshack.us)

Yoda

11-11-2006, 12:53 PM

Give-away? At Lakeland? HAH!

IdahoBert

11-11-2006, 12:56 PM

I'm glad they had the good sense to keep the link to the Tigers clear now that we are a team to be proud of. I like the airplne logo too.

rw_dc

11-11-2006, 01:02 PM

Interesting stuff. I think it's an upgrade. Thanks for the pics, hueytaxi!

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 01:17 PM

Here is the give-a-way on opening day:

Here is what is available:
http://static.flickr.com/119/294547634_bb9461bd3d.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/117/294606529_196c22175a.jpg
The tiger has a helmet, goggles and a scarf readiing Flying Tigers.

Shaggy Ry

11-11-2006, 01:20 PM

Upon first glance I didn't like it at all, I expected something way different. However it's really growing on me. They all really have the military vibe to them.

The lettering of "Flying Tigers" on the billboard sorta looks like sky writing as well - neat touch, while still keeping the Olde English tradition.

The stuffed Tiger with goggles and scarf was more what I was expecting - and I'm glad it is being used as well. The name can be marketed to both the kids and the adult fans...

Cult of Guillen

11-11-2006, 01:30 PM

lame--a major setback. I wish they would have employed a professional to assist with logo development. Those people exist.

Yoda

11-11-2006, 01:35 PM

lame--a major setback. I wish they would have employed a professional to assist with logo development. Those people exist.

I doubt the players designed them...

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 01:36 PM

lame--a major setback. I wish they would have employed a professional to assist with logo development. Those people exist.If you had followed the story since inception, you would know they did hire professionals. Plan B Marketing. Recently they worked with the Phillies to revise their local team to become the Clearwater Threshers. You certainly have a right to not like the introduction, just speak with knowledge.

LkldDave

11-11-2006, 01:51 PM

They put on a good show this morning and I am very proud of their efforts.

I'll second that Roger. It's just too bad the cover of the logo fell off during Ron's speech.

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 02:01 PM

I'll second that Roger. It's just too bad the cover of the logo fell off during Ron's speech.I think it was the spirit of a P-40 Warhawk buzzing the field that blew it off. Ron continued well though.

grandma g

11-11-2006, 02:07 PM

Looks very nice...so much for NOT being able to use the work "TIGERS" in the logo! LOL....very fitting for the story of Lakeland...can't wait to see the shirts & hats "live' in March!

FloridaTigers

11-11-2006, 02:22 PM

Wow, a team name and logo change that DOESN'T suck or fail?

tiger337

11-11-2006, 02:26 PM

It's not too bad but I prefer Lakeland Tigers better.

209A12

11-11-2006, 02:28 PM

Did the Ledger send anyone?

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 02:32 PM

Ledger had a reporter and photographer. Should see something in the paper tomorrow.

209A12

11-11-2006, 02:43 PM

How about staff announcements? AGM, Ticket Manager, etc. (This is beginning to sound like a press conference. But I just noticed who was logged on, and he just might be interested. Me, too.)

baseball3

11-11-2006, 02:46 PM

Actually, this is not to bad. A change is not always a bad way to go and this looks to have some positive possibilities.................

Roger, as ALWAYS, thanks for the detail. You kick the Ledger's *** everyday and us fans appreciate your contribution and efforts tremendously.

Thanks soooooooooooooooo very much !

Yoda

11-11-2006, 03:03 PM

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 03:06 PM

Sorry, Shannon is now the Administration and Operations Manager. Zach Burek and Ron Meyers retain their positions. Jeremy (and i apologize for not knowing his last name) will be the AGM. He has been a fixture at Tigertown since childhood as a fan, bat boy, and various duties until a couple years ago. He came back this last season part time to help in a variety of ways...often in the press box. Erik (lakelandtigers) the Ticket Mgr has not been replaced yet so they still have a couple of positions to fill. Kevin Bradshaw gave a nice short speech mentioning that his dream was to play one year of minor league ball. He got four before being sidelined by an injury and has remained with the Tigers to make it a carrer. If I can't have Mike, I will enjoy having KB back in Command.

slim pickens

11-11-2006, 03:12 PM

Who wants a desktop? Click to enlarge...

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a171/xstat21x/Baseball/wallpaper/FlyingTigers-t.jpg (http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a171/xstat21x/Baseball/wallpaper/FlyingTigers-desktop.jpg)
Not bad yoda, but the plane is too blurry! (always a critic!)

Yoda

11-11-2006, 03:13 PM

Not bad yoda, but the plane is too blurry! (always a critic!)

I did that intentionally. They move kind of fast... and thanks!

slim pickens

11-11-2006, 03:14 PM

I did that intentionally. They move kind of fast...
I thought of that after I had posted.

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 03:14 PM

Who wants a desktop? Click to enlarge...

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a171/xstat21x/Baseball/wallpaper/FlyingTigers-t.jpg (http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a171/xstat21x/Baseball/wallpaper/FlyingTigers-desktop.jpg)

Nice, especially with the speed. The Warhawk was Allison V-12 powered and here is a sound byte of one. http://www.alexisparkinn.com/photogallery/Videos/P40%20Flying%20Tiger.wav

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 03:17 PM

Who wants a desktop? Click to enlarge...

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a171/xstat21x/Baseball/wallpaper/FlyingTigers-t.jpg (http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a171/xstat21x/Baseball/wallpaper/FlyingTigers-desktop.jpg)

I see you captured our crowd also. Let's hope this brings in some new interest and maybe they will come back.

whitecapkat

11-11-2006, 03:24 PM

Yoda you beat me to it. I'm working on a desktop as well. Hopefully will have it up tonight...maybe.

whitecapwendy

11-11-2006, 03:30 PM

Here is what is available:
http://static.flickr.com/117/294606529_196c22175a.jpg
The tiger has a helmet, goggles and a scarf readiing Flying Tigers.
I like this tiger with the flying gear. I will have to check him out when I come to spring training.

wingedwheel

11-11-2006, 04:02 PM

I like the side view of the tiger better than the front one, but would prefer the airplane logo over them all.

Overall I think it is a definite upgrade.

Johnny Mac

11-11-2006, 04:22 PM

Lakeland Flying Tigers

sounds kind of stupid to me

http://www.lakelandlocal.com/

Johnny Mac

11-11-2006, 04:23 PM

they have the things on their hats like the Seattle Pilots used to have

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 04:34 PM

Lakeland Flying Tigers

sounds kind of stupid to me

http://www.lakelandlocal.com/
While I don't share your opinion, thanks for posting the link to Chuck's site. Met him early today.

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 04:36 PM

they have the things on their hats like the Seattle Pilots used to haveThey are gold palm leaves....senior officers normaly wear a version on the bill of their service caps called "scrambled eggs".

209A12

11-11-2006, 04:38 PM

Lakeland Flying Tigers

sounds kind of stupid to me

http://www.lakelandlocal.com/

At least we will be tied for second place in syllables in the FSL. The leader, of course, is the Brevard County Manatees.

That's a good story on the link. I like the idea of stars on the pitcher's hats for wins. How many will Andrew Miller have sewn on before the weather gets above freezing in Erie?

Johnny Mac

11-11-2006, 04:40 PM

While I don't share your opinion, thanks for posting the link to Chuck's site. Met him early today.

i guess the name is kind of cool, i didnt get the WWII reference when I first saw the name, I get it now

LakelandTigers

11-11-2006, 04:57 PM

209A12

11-11-2006, 05:02 PM

Can you say where you are and if you are hooked up with a team yet?

Shaggy Ry

11-11-2006, 05:06 PM

i guess the name is kind of cool, i didnt get the WWII reference when I first saw the name, I get it now

I'm telling you, it really grows on ya. I think it adds character to the team, just as long as it doesn't get too gimmicky, calling the Manager the Commander is really pushing it.

Lakeland Tigers is too plain; bland for a minor league team. I really like how it was linked to the history of the area.

LakelandTigers

11-11-2006, 05:19 PM

Can you say where you are and if you are hooked up with a team yet?

I am in Irvine, California. I am working as a Database Marketing Specialist for Paciolian. It is a ticketing company that handles a lot of division one athletics, theaters, and arenas. One of our clients happens to be the Phillies and we do things with the Threshers. Its a great company and the 30k raise even with the cost of living made it impossible for me to turn down.

Like I've said. I enjoyed my time in Lakeland a great deal. I left with two life long friends, a lot of great memories, and a place I will always remember fondly. I'll be coming back to visit and catch up on the Flying Tigers.

I will most likely be changing my log in name here in the future, but I will make sure to keep in touch and offer my two cents...especially now that I am back to being a fan and not a fan/employee. As a lifelong Tiger fan, I consider myself lucky for having been able to live out a dream of mine and work for the Detroit Tigers...it was a blast!

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 05:19 PM

i like it. im happy for the organization and I hope all of you in Lakeland will come out to support them. They are the hardest working saff in baseball and I was proud to be apart of that for two years.

guess i might have to change the username now. :-)Make them ask. You earned that name and it is your choice to keep it. I can understand your thought process though and regard it highly. The Staff was pumped today.

Something I forgot...wins are now kills and the pitchers will wear a star for each win. The Veteran's Day announcement was very appropriate for the military theme being unveiled. I waited for a flight of Warthogs to zoom over as America the Beautiful came over the speakers.

LakelandTigers

11-11-2006, 05:24 PM

Make them ask. You earned that name and it is your choice to keep it. I can understand your thought process though and regard it highly. The Staff was pumped today.

I'm glad....they deserve it. I was thinking of changing the name before all of this, just to give it up in case they ever wanted it.

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 05:40 PM

Just keep it...they will need their own new name anyway. I hope we can get Jeremy or Shannon to comment occasionally.

potthole

11-11-2006, 06:17 PM

Any pictures of a jersey? I'm really interested in seeing them if there are any!

Yoda

11-11-2006, 06:26 PM

Any pictures of a jersey? I'm really interested in seeing them if there are any!

http://www.flickr.com/photo_zoom.gne?id=294547268&context=set-72157594370506448&size=l

I like the airplane patch on the sleeves.

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 06:28 PM

Any pictures of a jersey? I'm really interested in seeing them if there are any!Nothing live yet..just the drawings in the link to Flickr. They will probably reuse the existing Home uniforms and add the new numbers and Flying Tiger script. The Away uniforms will be new. The tshirts were just delivered and the caps are not here yet nor are they New Era for now. May be by game time.

potthole

11-11-2006, 06:33 PM

http://www.flickr.com/photo_zoom.gne?id=294547268&context=set-72157594370506448&size=l

I like the airplane patch on the sleeves.

Thanks! I love the numbers! Very nice threads in general!

Yoda

11-11-2006, 06:35 PM

Nothing live yet..just the drawings in the link to Flickr. They will probably reuse the existing Home uniforms and add the new numbers and Flying Tiger script. The Away uniforms will be new. The tshirts were just delivered and the caps are not here yet nor are they New Era for now. May be by game time.

Any idea when the concession stand will be opened again?

Johnny Mac

11-11-2006, 06:35 PM

i like it

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 06:39 PM

Those who have spent time at a game in Lakeland may recall a music track during a break in the action of an airplane simulatiing a flyover in stereo. We need a good .wav or equivalent they can use of the Allison V-12 the P-40 used. I have forwarded a mono ersion and there are a lot of P-51 Merlins out there, just not the same as the V-12 to an aviation buff. I know the answer is here. Just make sure it is not copyrighted or link the owner for the staff. .gif's would also most likely be appreciated.

Johnny Mac

11-11-2006, 06:42 PM

if andrew miller is on the team next year he may get a hat like this one with all the wins he will get

http://www.allparty.co.uk/store/media/hats/11213_Top_Hat_USA.jpg

slim pickens

11-11-2006, 06:44 PM

hueytaxi

11-11-2006, 07:05 PM

Found the German V-12, did I miss another?

slim pickens

11-11-2006, 07:51 PM

Found the German V-12, did I miss another?
sorry, I meant the German v-12, not the allison v-12.

MotownWebGuy

11-11-2006, 09:01 PM

I will most likely be changing my log in name here in the future, but I will make sure to keep in touch and offer my two cents...especially now that I am back to being a fan and not a fan/employee.If you want to change your name (for obvious reasons), send me an email or PM and we'll get this done for you.

209A12

11-11-2006, 10:32 PM

If you want to change your name (for obvious reasons), send me an email or PM and we'll get this done for you.
One last question, Mr. V.; Where will your silver-throated brother be performing in the future?

holygoat

11-11-2006, 10:52 PM

I really like it. The hat logo is cool, as are the airplane patch and the stencil numbers. The only thing i don't like is the "Flying Tigers" script on the home whites, although I don't really know what would work better in the grand scheme of things. Maybe I'd like it more if the road unis had "Lakeland" on them.

LakelandTigers

11-12-2006, 01:03 AM

One last question, Mr. V.; Where will your silver-throated brother be performing in the future?

My brother is currently at the Univ. of Michigan finishing up his degree. He'll then be joining me out here in Southern California. He does a lot of shows up in Michigan and sometimes gets out to NYC to do some things.

209A12

11-12-2006, 07:34 AM

The Lakeland Ledger does it's thing:

http://theledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061112/NEWS/611120427/1134

baseball3

11-12-2006, 09:44 AM

Ledger's report as usual..........not terrible, but, not even close to Roger!!!

209A12

11-12-2006, 09:50 AM

Ledger's report as usual..........not terrible, but, not even close to Roger!!!
Agreed, for sure.
The opening day festivities ought to bring in a lot of people. Will they come back?

baseball3

11-12-2006, 05:44 PM

estrepe1

11-12-2006, 05:48 PM

They'll come out to watch Cameron's exploits, but, overall, they have been nummed by minor league baseball and are generally disinterested. If they didn't "come out" the year before when Clevlen & Co. dominated all season long, they'll probably not REALLY come to a large degree. for those who were at West Michigan last year with all the fan support, they'll be in for a surprise.

Are we sure that Cameron will even be in Lakeland? I think it is the most likely outcome but there is a decent chance he could impress in spring training and jump to AA.

I do think the team in Lakeland could be better than the team was this past season though. Hopefully that is enough to bring people out. But the FSL as a whole has problems drawing people in comparison to other leagues.

baseball3

11-12-2006, 05:53 PM

Who knows besides Ezell and Co ? But, it would be a good marketing opportunitity to see if they would come out with him there. I think he may start there and move quickly, but, who knows???????????????? Certainly none of us.

hueytaxi

11-12-2006, 08:35 PM

Until the FSL franchises sell their product to corporate America, attendance will be lagging. Giving away tickets, hot dogs and drinks to a Little League Team only gets them there once with no return on the dollar. Few parents come with the coaches and Team Mom. We need corporate outings who subsidize the ticket sales and generate concession income. You can't alienate the local college. You can't hire 4 interns to run the park during the entire season and not hire someone to sell the Team. The successful franchises have large marketing departments and fill the stands during the week (Daytona and Jupiter). I wish Lakeland great success with the new theme. Ideas are a beginning, people create the solution.

209A12

11-12-2006, 10:50 PM

1. Amuse the kids. That's easy. Make them think on every pitch, they might get a baseball. Make no mistake, that is the one and only reason kids come to ballgames. Fireworks after the game on weekends. Kids like them, and grownups love them. Slapstick works wonders.
2. Make Mom & Dad happy while they watch the kids. Hard play. Nobody thinks they are a loser, and they don't want to watch others screw up. Food & drink specials make the customer feel like he's in the right place at the right time. Two for one beers, even if they're small, make the customer feel like he's getting away with something. Ft Myers even gives away hot dogs on Friday nights before the game. Got to wash them down somehow.
3. Let the hardcore fans know they are appreciated. They come night after night, loving the game and the players, and love to be part of a large group of folks just out for fun. Love them back. Give them something special.
4. The ballpark has to be a place to go. If it's a tiki bar in the outfield that brings in the corporate happy hour group, then break out the reggae groups between innings, keep the customers out of the rain, and serve free popcorn and drinks with umbrellas. Give a drink voucher with every ticket at full price.
5. Think about when you were a kid. Do you remember the green grass, the crack of the bat, the taste of the hot dog, your dad happy to be there, or the score of the game? Isn't that why you're here now?

Sorry, but it's November, and there's no games for a while.
Did anyone else notice the Red Sox will be coming to Joker Marchant on Saturday, March 10th? It's the firtst time in quite a while we have seen them. What a zoo it will be!!

potthole

11-12-2006, 10:54 PM

for those who were at West Michigan last year with all the fan support, they'll be in for a surprise.

That's something I thought about a few times this summer when watching Whitecap games... for the players who go from large crowds in Grand Rapids, to the small ones in Lakeland, it's got to be a bit of a bummer.

Johnny Mac

11-12-2006, 10:59 PM

Are we sure that Cameron will even be in Lakeland? I think it is the most likely outcome but there is a decent chance he could impress in spring training and jump to AA.

I do think the team in Lakeland could be better than the team was this past season though. Hopefully that is enough to bring people out. But the FSL as a whole has problems drawing people in comparison to other leagues.

i agree, i dont see maybin in Lakeland

hueytaxi

11-12-2006, 11:27 PM

Don, I wish our staff could look at the other franchises as often as you do with an open mind. When they visit they are treated specially. You and i are treated with the respect of our competition as equals and extremely cordially. No we don't get anything more than their fans, just the appreciation that we are there for the game. The freebies are great, the incentives are nice; but I have never been to another FSL park where I did not feel appreciated (Tampa excepted). I don't even think I've paid for a ticket unless on a bus trip. I would hope that a staff member will make the road trips this year and just be a fan and learn what else is out there.

209A12

11-13-2006, 06:12 AM

i agree, i dont see maybin in Lakeland
Our only hope to get a look at him, and another at Miller, is our good April weather, and the not so good weather in Erie at that time.

Big Toe

11-13-2006, 01:10 PM

I like the name! I was bummed when I heard they were changing it. I'm glad they didn't go and do something dumb like name it after a dinosaur or add fourteen different colors (including three shades of teal).

I don't know any more than anyone else on Maybin and where he'll wind up, but I'd actually like to see him start in Lakeland. He has a lot to work on as far as contact rate goes and jumping to double-A would make that quite a challenge. I'm sure that's something that'll be figured out in the spring.

estrepe1

11-13-2006, 02:04 PM

Our only hope to get a look at him, and another at Miller, is our good April weather, and the not so good weather in Erie at that time.

I am 99.9% sure you have seen the last of Miller pitching for the Lakeland ballclub. Unless you go see him during spring training.

I think he starts in Erie or Toledo next season.

cruzer1

11-13-2006, 02:08 PM

Being military myself, I love the name change and the new logo. Thank you Roger!

Ecky

11-13-2006, 03:11 PM

I have to think that Maybin starts in Lakeland. The temptation will be there to rush him, but I think they will resist!

redshark63

11-13-2006, 03:12 PM

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/app/news/article.jsp?ymd=20061113&content_id=143847&vkey=news_l123&fext=.jsp&sid=l123

Lakeland Flying Tigers embark on new era
By Benjamin Hill / Special to MLB.com

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/images/2006/11/13/WiDYWyOk.jpg
Lakeland's new logo features the head of a fang-baring Tiger surrounded by a pilot's wings.

By hearkening back to a previous era, the Lakeland Flying Tigers have embarked upon on a new one.

Since 1967, the Florida State League franchise had gone by the name of "Tigers," a simple reference to its parent club. On Saturday, the team unveiled their new name and new logo as part of a Veterans Day celebration at Tigertown USA, Detroit's Spring Training facility.

The name "Flying Tigers" refers to Tigertown's roots as a World War II training site for American and British pilots. Between 1940 and 1945, the Lakeland School of Aeronautics graduated more 8,000 aspiring airmen, many of whom went on to complete dangerous missions in the skies of Europe and Asia.

Specifically, the name "Flying Tigers" refers to a group of American fighter pilots who fought against the Japanese in Burma and China in 1942. This elite group of flyers painted red shark teeth on the noses of their aircraft, which even today are symbolic of the United States' success during World War II.

Accordingly, the team's new logo features the head of a fang-baring Tiger surrounded by a pilot's wings. The uniforms include a patch featuring a P-40 fighter jet and the words "Tigertown USA," and the color of the road uniform has been switched from the traditional gray to a military tan.

Additionally, new Manager Kevin Bradshaw will wear a special cap designating his status as "commander," while the club's pitchers will have a star added to their cap for each win they accumulate.

Lakeland's new emphasis on its aviation and World War II roots will extend to the fan experience as well. The Flying Tigers' Joker Marchant Stadium will be decorated with images of Flying Tiger planes, and the club will play big band music and honor military personnel during games. Opening Day 2007 should be one to remember, as pre-game festivities will include a dogfight over Joker Marchant Stadium featuring P-40 fighter planes.

The Flying Tigers' image makeover was the work of Plan B Branding, a San Diego-based "ideas company" which also helped overhaul the look of the FSL's Clearwater franchise prior to the 2004 season.

"Tigertown is one of the most unique destinations in all of Minor League Baseball," said Plan B's Jason Klein. "When visiting there, it really feels like you're going back in time. Focusing on World War II and the golden age of flight is a great way to connect with the team's fan base while letting everyone know about the history of Tigertown."<

Benjamin Hill is a contributor to MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

estrepe1

11-13-2006, 03:13 PM

I have to think that Maybin starts in Lakeland. The temptation will be there to rush him, but I think they will resist!

Of course there is a question of whether that would really be rushing him. If they put him in Erie that means they believe he is ready for Erie.

I kind of expect him to start in Lakeland but be in Erie by midseason.

Shaggy Ry

11-13-2006, 03:18 PM

I think he'll start in Lakeland as well, only because I think Erie will be his last minor league stop and that he'll never see Toledo. I think plugging him in Erie right away will only speed up his promotion to the show and start his arbitration clock ticking. Put him in Lakeland and then promotion him to Erie would be the reward for a good first half in Lakeland. You could then leave him in Erie for the rest of the year. However if you start him in Erie there will be the urge to bring him up to the show if he's performing well there to start the season.

Big Toe

11-13-2006, 03:50 PM

I have to admit, I really thought the name change was going to suck. I like it! The stars on the hat for each win is cool, and I'm especially pleased they kept some reference to the Tigers in there. The historical element is great too. I'm impressed!

hueytaxi

11-13-2006, 06:05 PM

The Lakeland Ledger had a readers poll yesterday (sorry no link available) which asked "Do you like the new name Flying Tigers for the Lakeland baseball team? Out of 147 recorded responses the consensus was NO. 42 % voted YES and 58% voted NO. Chances are few have attended games regularly.

Ecky

11-13-2006, 06:13 PM

209A12

11-13-2006, 06:45 PM

maybe it was just the old sunday day / monday night crowd voting. ;-)
Ron Myers probably voted Yes 61 times. (42% of 147)

Yoda

11-13-2006, 07:07 PM

Ron wouldn't do such a thing...

He used to tell a friend of mine that he wasn't a fan because he wore a Rays hat to the game. Keep in mind we went to all but about 5 home games that year plus 6 or 7 road games.

hueytaxi

11-13-2006, 08:05 PM

I hate to admit that I didn't call in to the poll.

baseballglove007

11-13-2006, 09:07 PM

The name would be good maybe for a gimmick, but not a real name.

209A12

11-13-2006, 10:05 PM

hueytaxi

11-13-2006, 10:26 PM

Don the LFT website is not working and the old site is giving the info. Thanks for posting this for us locals. I knew the 18th, but not the time.

209A12

11-13-2006, 10:28 PM

Don the LFT website is not working and the old site is giving the info. Thanks for posting this for us locals. I knew the 18th, but not the time.
I checked it out. Lots of ads, no info.
I am sure you are giving your blessing to the new venture. Have your contributions been requested?

hueytaxi

11-13-2006, 10:32 PM

I checked it out. Lots of ads, no info.
I am sure you are giving your blessing to the new venture. Have your contributions been requested?Let's say I am hopeful and optimistic, no more than that. And the second part is no. I am much with this as I am with prospects..hope for the best and don't be disappointed by reality.

209A12

11-13-2006, 10:40 PM

Let's say I am hopeful and optimistic, no more than that. And the second part is no. I am much with this as I am with prospects..hope for the best and don't be disappointed by reality.

Indeed. And the beat goes on.

fyrftrjim

11-14-2006, 08:00 AM

This came up on the old, worn out, never to be seen again, Lakeland Tigers web site:

It's Official! The Lakeland Flying Tigers Take Flight!

The first meeting for the new Fan Club will take place on Monday, December 18th at noon in the Cafeteria. Lunch will be served.* Everyone interested is invited and encouraged to attend.

Check back for info. on our new website: www.lakelandflyingtigers.com.
Wish the fan club meeting was not on the 18th noon, would have love to attend to see how next year will be at the game, but some of us have to work during the day of all times to get switched to day shift.

209A12

11-18-2006, 08:02 AM

From the Lakeland Ledger:

Published Saturday, November 18, 2006

Flying Tigers Baseball
Re: The Lakeland Flying Tigers

My husband, Robert A. Harmon, was a Flying Tiger, serving in China for 20 months as a fighter pilot. He belonged to the Flying Tiger Association and since his death, I have been an active associate member - I think this is great they are carrying on the name, especially as the Flying Tiger Association is being dissolved in May 2007. There are too few living members to carry on in a large group. However, we have small groups throughout the country who will still meet yearly. Our West Coast group meets at MacDill Field in March and I will continue to meet with those old friends.

BARBARA A. HARMON

Mulberry

I agree with the responder to Monday's Polk Pulse question, "Do you like the new name Flying Tigers for the Lakeland baseball team?" He said, "No, Flying Tigers sounds like a Chinese trapeze show."

Why is there even a consideration of changing the name? To make more money? That does not do anything for the loyal fans nor the city where the team is based. Fans want to be proud of their team because it represents where they live. Will the name on the front of the jerseys say, "Lakeland's Baseball Team, Flying Tigers?"

Baseball above all other sports is a game of tradition. Why mess with that? All other professional, major league and minor league, baseball teams I can think of are named for the city that is their home. Show me on a map, where is "Flying?" Other sports also follow that tradition, football, hockey, soccer, etc. Do you wonder why?

We have in Lakeland a high school football team that is receiving national recognition - and deservedly so. The team bears our city's name. We are

very proud of it. We would be even if it was not receiving the recognition. Why can't we do the same for our baseball team?

TOM ENDA

Lakeland

fyrftrjim

11-18-2006, 04:27 PM

Honestly the name change is all about money & not about tradition of the Fying Tigers, now that is my just my opinion, because ifsome regulars to the games know Ron Myers wanted the Fish Hawks but the fans including me did not like that change. I don't know how this will change from a marketing perspective, I still expect the usual 100 to 200 fans a game unless you have something for the 4th of July or something like thatn but I think the name change won't be enough to draw the fans to the game.

IdahoBert

11-18-2006, 06:37 PM

hueytaxi

11-18-2006, 07:51 PM

Why does Lakeland draw so poorly? Cities are small? Is is hot muggy nights or something? I understand that low attendance is common in the FSL. Now in Boise where I live we get 3000 a game for a short season A team but we have a population base of almost a half million to draw from.The younger crowd have their kids on the Little league and Dixie Youth fields nightly. It is hot and muggy. Games are often not over by bed time. Dad is too tired. It's gonna rain. I was the same for many years and it took a child's interest to spark mine. Ryan had his favs in ST, but was almost as thrilled to be able to talk with a GCL prospect or even a no name starter.

Involvement was a key feature for me. Actually knowing the players and staff made me return nightly. Few fans get involved to my extreme, but all of our regulars have players that know and remember them from year to year. Come out once in a while, that never can happen.

Yoda

11-19-2006, 10:17 AM

Why does Lakeland draw so poorly? Cities are small? Is is hot muggy nights or something? I understand that low attendance is common in the FSL. Now in Boise where I live we get 3000 a game for a short season A team but we have a population base of almost a half million to draw from.

How many minor league teams are there in Idaho? Now compare that with how many teams there are in Florida. That alone is going to thin the attendances. Now consider the fact that they're surrounded by an ocean, the gulf of Mexico, the Florida Keys, and right in the middle of it all is the greatest tourist attraction in the world: Disney.

This is why the Florida State League regularly has poor attendance. It' isn't just Lakeland. Lakeland is one of the lowest in the league though, and I think that's partially because many of the people in Lakeland don't stay in Lakeland when they go out. They go to Orlando or Tampa or Ybor City or Clearwater or Daytona, etc. There's just too many other things to do around here. Now compare that to Boise.

IdahoBert

11-19-2006, 12:23 PM

How many minor league teams are there in Idaho? Now compare that with how many teams there are in Florida. That alone is going to thin the attendances. Now consider the fact that they're surrounded by an ocean, the gulf of Mexico, the Florida Keys, and right in the middle of it all is the greatest tourist attraction in the world: Disney.

This is why the Florida State League regularly has poor attendance. It' isn't just Lakeland. Lakeland is one of the lowest in the league though, and I think that's partially because many of the people in Lakeland don't stay in Lakeland when they go out. They go to Orlando or Tampa or Ybor City or Clearwater or Daytona, etc. There's just too many other things to do around here. Now compare that to Boise.
There's only a couple and they are hours apart. I think having so many teams must have a lot to do with it as well as all the other things there are to do. Boise used to average five thousand a game when the team was new to the area but high average temps of 100 at game time started to wear people down and cut the crowds. Makes me wonder how the FSL can stay in business with such low ticket sales.

209A12

11-19-2006, 02:44 PM

Most of the franchises are owned by the parent teams. The municipalities own and maintain the facilities at no cost to the team. Except for Daytona, which is aggresive with its marketing, all facilities are spring training parks, which is when the cities and counties take in the revenue that supposedly makes up for the deficit the rest of the year. The Disney park, which is privately owned and top notch, is basically used for 16 games a year. They tried AA ball and gave up. Tourists, baby, they spend the bucks. The one exception to that would be our neighbors to the north. It is said they come down for the winter with one ten dollar bill and one pair of underwear, and don't change either one. I can't verify that.

hueytaxi

11-19-2006, 03:09 PM

I wore my Lakeland Flying Tigers P-40 shirt to the local gun show today. Had a lot of comments as I walked the aisles. Seems the name change may have sparked some interest locally. I hope so.

Mr.MelissaG915

11-19-2006, 04:41 PM

hueytaxi

11-19-2006, 05:44 PM

How much promotion does the team do in Orlando? I've been there a few time this year and have seen nothing. There are enough ads for crappy go carts, IMAX movies, and wax museums. You would think they could tie into the Disney crowd for something that doesnt' cost $50.
You have hit the problem squarely. No prominent promotion! Period! A 1 1/2 x 3 ad in the local paper, a schedule in the Things to Do section on Thursday and once in a while an ad on ythe Wx channel or some local (I really don't remember which). When you find a Tiger's fan and mention the local franchise, they are amazed. Would have no idea that we had minor league play here, much less nearby. My casual wear around town usually is MiLB related and I constantly hear comments about not knowing the Tigers are here 9 months out of the year. I'm sure I only generate a very small group of fans that turn out for a game, but look at the small percentage I contact. Our local Tigers have to advertise and promote this team to achieve thir desires. I would like to see the City tie in with the Tigers and advertise. Years ago we had billboards all over advertising "Blinky", our one eyed alligator; in an attempt to draw visitors. The ALCS championship junior franchise should be a bigger draw and gate.

Ecky

11-19-2006, 06:47 PM

whitecapwendy

11-19-2006, 07:19 PM

You have hit the problem squarely. No prominent promotion! Period! A 1 1/2 x 3 ad in the local paper, a schedule in the Things to Do section on Thursday and once in a while an ad on ythe Wx channel or some local (I really don't remember which). When you find a Tiger's fan and mention the local franchise, they are amazed. Would have no idea that we had minor league play here, much less nearby. My casual wear around town usually is MiLB related and I constantly hear comments about not knowing the Tigers are here 9 months out of the year. I'm sure I only generate a very small group of fans that turn out for a game, but look at the small percentage I contact. Our local Tigers have to advertise and promote this team to achieve thir desires. I would like to see the City tie in with the Tigers and advertise. Years ago we had billboards all over advertising "Blinky", our one eyed alligator; in an attempt to draw visitors. The ALCS championship junior franchise should be a bigger draw and gate.
Some ideas that might perk up a couple days of the schedule. 5/3 ballpark has 2or 3 day games in the spring that are targeted at the schools. They will have different educational things available as well as having the kids learn to score a game (math), and actually fill out the score cards for one inning. The kids (one group at a time) will tour the facilities before the game. Hence, a fun field trip for kids (while also teaching them to love baseball --alway good for the ball club), and what do the kids want to do the most during the game? Well, between the souvenier shop and concession stand, the ball club will rake in megabucks. (they need to make sure they have lots and lots of hotdogs, popcorn, ice cream and cotton candy). Those school days are always a big hit here in GR. If the kids have enough fun, they will want to drag their parents out to other games. Does Lakeland have a fun mascot?

Deadshot

11-19-2006, 09:07 PM

Does Lakeland have a fun mascot?

Southpaw isn't all that bad. I've seen more entertaining mascots before, but I suppose there isn't much left here in Lakeland to entertain anyway. The mascot might change with the new name change, though.

hueytaxi

11-19-2006, 09:30 PM

whitecapwendy

11-19-2006, 10:00 PM

Wendy, there are 2 school days here. Usually bringing in 250-350 children and chaperones. Food and drink are provided. They love it. No instruction or tour provided, no parents unless those are some of the chaperones. Returnijng kids, probably not in a significant number. We keep giving tickets to kids whom are not required to bring parents to spend the $$$. It is a outflow of cash in my opinion. But, I am an outsider and this is only an opinion. The truth could be different and I would hope so. At times I am too critical. A product of being in management too long and having my own ideas on how this should be run (but a different field and I would probably not succeed). I want this franchise to rival the Whitecaps in attendance.
That would be nice. Keep in mind that the Whitecaps are a Tigers farm team playing in Michigan, and there are two Professional Minor league teams in Michigan, and two others that are in Indiana (two and three hours away) which helps the West Michigan attraction. We have front office staff who work all winter on getting groups in and selling partial season tickets. The Whitecaps are able to have a decent number of front office staff (probably because the first few years were almost sell out all season--that helped build a base). I really hope that Lakeland can find a way to draw crowds. I remember when I was there for a spring season game with my sister and brother in law--there were a group of 4 or 5 in their maybe early twenties who seemed to know some of the Tigers, so I thought they must be really big baseball fans. we got to talking and I asked one of the girls if they came out to many games during the regular season. She had to ask her friends, and then turned back to me and said "well, there's thirsty Thursday." My mouth must have been hanging open because my sister and brother in law about lost it trying to keep from laughing. Of course later I found out that the same girl had no clue what a Pudge was. That broke my heart--such a beautiful complex there.

209A12

11-19-2006, 10:32 PM

[QUOTE=whitecapwendy] "well, there's thirsty Thursday."

No more Thirsty Thursday in Lakeland. People were having fun, and that couldn't be tolerated. While F-Bombs were being launched regularly from the field, some heckling from the college fans directed toward the visitors was, even though without vulgarity, unacceptable.

Yoda

11-19-2006, 10:48 PM

Deadshot

11-19-2006, 11:44 PM

I say we stick him in the Southpaw costume and hire a kid to trip him in the "Kids run the bases" race. ;)

hueytaxi

11-19-2006, 11:47 PM

I learned long ago, deal with the problem directly, don't punish the masses. The masses will punish you!

LkldDave

11-20-2006, 09:06 AM

It's just my opinion - but somehow they need to get in bed with the Ledger and keep them happy.

They publish more articles about the Yankees - MLB Tigers - and D-Rays than their own local team.

Plus there is a local hospital literally 1/2 mile away - and I can never remember any players coming and visiting the pediatric ward - do that and publicize the stuffings out of it. Heck - even work with LRMC, Winter Haven, and Bartow Hospitals to 'give' the recovering family a night out at the old ballpark. And - for publicity - pick a day - say a Friday the 13th - and give every baby born in Polk County a lifetime season ticket.

Yoda

11-20-2006, 09:41 AM

Mr.MelissaG915

11-20-2006, 10:04 AM

Yoda

11-20-2006, 10:08 AM

250 - 350 for school days is awful. Our largest crowds are when the school kids come. It's nothing for 8,000 to get to these 11:00 AM games.

Sure we complain attendance is down in West Michigan, but we still draw over 3,000 nightly. Lakeland may need to look at an improved PR team....

You're comparing apples to oranges. See Post #150. (http://www.motownsports.com/forums/showpost.php?p=967967&postcount=150)

LkldDave

11-20-2006, 10:47 AM

I'll always go to the games just because its baseball - and my passion.

But in saying that - in years past there use to be things like a gift certificate to the Texas Cattle Company that would be nice. Sure beats the hot dog being given out the last couple of years.

And one last thing - don't forget the Tigers here are CHEAP.

Mr.MelissaG915

11-20-2006, 10:59 AM

You're comparing apples to oranges. See Post #150. (http://www.motownsports.com/forums/showpost.php?p=967967&postcount=150)

School kids are school kids. That is only one example of what works up here. Not everything is going to work the same across the country. It would be nice to see more advertising and public relations. but then again, I'm a few states away and do not see it on a daily basis like you warm people.:lick:

209A12

11-20-2006, 11:04 AM

[QUOTE=LkldDave]I'll always go to the games just because its baseball - and my passion.

Amen!
BTW, good ideas with the hospitals.
At Daytona, if you get a tattoo of the team logo, you get in free for life. But, to paraphrase Roger, free stuff is good, but the ballpark must be a destination. You have want to go almost because, if you don't, you're afraid you might miss something good.

LkldDave

11-20-2006, 12:24 PM

School kids are school kids. That is only one example of what works up here. Not everything is going to work the same across the country. It would be nice to see more advertising and public relations. but then again, I'm a few states away and do not see it on a daily basis like you warm people.:lick:

The only month that is viable down here is April in my opinion. Schools get out in May - plus I wouldn't want kids sitting in temperatures that get into the 90's - in a concrete stadium.

August is a possibility - but the kids are back to school - not the best times for field trips.

hueytaxi

11-20-2006, 01:06 PM

Past season kid's days were April 12th & 19th at 10:35 against the Jays and July 12th at 11 AM agaijnst the Phillies. The chapersones to try to herd the kids up into the shade and behind the netting.

LkldDave

11-20-2006, 01:11 PM

Past season kid's days were April 12th & 19th at 10:35 against the Jays and July 12th at 11 AM agaijnst the Phillies. The chapersones to try to herd the kids up into the shade and behind the netting.
July was the Parks and Rec day if I remember....

hueytaxi

11-20-2006, 01:45 PM

The bottom line down here is our select few fans are going to return to watch our guys. To attract new fans, the organization is going to have to prove to the community that they are finally offering a new and improved product. They can only dress the team, the performance is not under their control. Their influence must be on Promotion, Persistance and Personality to the Public. They have failed in the past. They have great goals for the coming season, I trust they can field the admin Team to play sucessfully. I think we all hope so in Lakeland.

fyrftrjim

11-20-2006, 02:01 PM

The ledger is absolutely embarassing. They do a horrible job of publicizing the team. Don't get me started on that because it will ruin my day.

Those are all great ideas Dave. So it probably won't happen.
You got that right Yoda. The fans who are at the games on a regular have alot of good ideas, but you know all too well that Captain Ron doesn't do what the fans want....heck he can't even show up for the games half the time.

hueytaxi

11-20-2006, 02:42 PM

So the challenge is there Lakeland Flying Tigers. You tell me the Staff reads this Forum. My criticism is hopefully taken as constructive and certainly not in an angry context. I would love to hear from another representative on this Forum now that LakelandTigers has vacated his online persona. If you can deliver on the ideas, I know this group will be at your back. Let's get it done right!:happy:

potthole

11-20-2006, 03:56 PM

This is probably a stupid question, but who is this "Ron" that there are occasional mentions of?

209A12

11-20-2006, 04:36 PM

This is probably a stupid question, but who is this "Ron" that there are occasional mentions of?
Director of Florida Operations (DFO)

hueytaxi

11-20-2006, 05:02 PM

http://www.lakelandtigers.net/frontoffice.asp

Ecky

11-20-2006, 07:01 PM

Lakeland may need to look at an improved PR team....

They might want to establish a PR team before improving it.

One of the major problems as I see it is that the team is way to focused on the sales side of things. Sell Sell Sell and the fans will come is the mantra at Tigertown, and while that is partly true, you must balance that with a good strong marketing plan. It makes no sense to pick up a phone and make 100 blind calls with no plan. It would be like me trying to win a campaign by calling you up and saying vote for me and that's it. Changing the name is a start, but unless you take the next steps it will not matter one bit. IDENTIFY YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE!!! One of the first rules of business!

The us against the world mentality is also very detrimental to the team. Alienating fans who have shown us their unwavering support, viewing other options to a tiger game as the enemy instead of a partner in making the City of Lakeland a lot better. Things like this go a long way to improving your name in the community.

I will be very interested in seeing on where things go from here. I have a pretty good idea...

BigMM

11-20-2006, 07:26 PM

I'll speak on this from experience, as I worked for the Brevard County Manatees this season and saw the struggles of an FSL team trying to draw fans to watch the team play. It was especially tough with the Manatees because we were the only team with a different parent club than the club that does spring training at the stadium (we were the single A Milwaukee franchise, while the Nats trained in Viera).

I believe that the key to having any kind of success in baseball, whether it's the MLB all the way down to single A is to create an image as the "community team." There are several ways to do this, with what I believe the most important being newspaper coverage. Just like I read earlier that the Ledger does not do enough to cover the team, we had the same problem with the Florida Today and the Manatees. If there was coverage it was a small piece in the corner of the 2nd page or something like that. Fans need to continually see the news in order to feel it is valid and then they may make their way out to the stadium.

Also, in some restaurants there are several pieces of team memorabilia. In the Manatees case there were local high or pro sports jerseys hanging up in places like Beef O'Bradys (local sports pub), Chili's etc...but no Manatees stuff. I think that just simply getting your logo out makes a difference, because at least it gives people who may not know you even exist an idea that you're there.

Just a couple things there, but I do believe that the sense of community is the best way to start drawing fans.

Ecky

11-20-2006, 07:30 PM

BigMM did you participate in that week long walk this past season. It was a great idea. I am curious how it turned out.

BigMM

11-20-2006, 07:38 PM

BigMM did you participate in that week long walk this past season. It was a great idea. I am curious how it turned out.

Our GM was supposed to walk something like 74 miles up the Brevard County coast. However, he only made it 19 before intense knee pain put him on the DL. :ermm:

209A12

11-20-2006, 08:54 PM

Our GM was supposed to walk something like 74 miles up the Brevard County coast. However, he only made it 19 before intense knee pain put him on the DL. :ermm:
Two questions, if you don't mind;
Are you the dude who slept on the scoreboard? That was good stuff.
Is Buck still working there?

BigMM

11-20-2006, 09:21 PM

Two questions, if you don't mind;
Are you the dude who slept on the scoreboard? That was good stuff.
Is Buck still working there?

Yes, Buck is still the GM.

No, I'm not the guy who slept on the berm. That was John Van Vleet I believe, an intern from 2 years before I worked there. He slept on the berm all season long in a tent called "Van Vleet Ville." He showered and such at the stadium in the clubhouse. I couldn't imagine doing that.

hueytaxi

11-20-2006, 09:38 PM

Interns are fantastic assets to the Minor League Teams. Somehow, the local Tigers always secure a great staff.

209A12

11-20-2006, 10:19 PM

Yes, Buck is still the GM.

No, I'm not the guy who slept on the berm. That was John Van Vleet I believe, an intern from 2 years before I worked there. He slept on the berm all season long in a tent called "Van Vleet Ville." He showered and such at the stadium in the clubhouse. I couldn't imagine doing that.
Thanks for answering. Every time I went to Viera, I thought it was in the middle of wide open spaces. I am sure development is closing in, since it's been about 3 years since we've been there. The FSL is a rare bird, and hard to pin down. The work is hard, and the rewards are modest. Unlike Lakeland, which has been affiliated with the Tigers for about 70 years, Viera has to sell the game. Much harder.

Ecky

11-22-2006, 02:55 PM

hueytaxi

11-22-2006, 04:03 PM

I haven't beern out there to talk with anyone since the logo change. Shannon has been emailing significant items to a few of us as they come up. Nothing related so far.

BigMM

11-22-2006, 04:12 PM

Is there any set date for the launch of the new website? I am certain they are going with MLBAM for the new site which will make it easy on everyone still there to upload and keep content fresh with the website. Also being able to sell items online will be huge.

I find myself at times wanting to log into the old site and add content myself to keep things fresh. Oh well.

From experience, the MLBAM website uploading is not easy for the average non-HTML friendly person...however it does look slick when you have scrolling front-page news items, online ticket sales, and an online merchandise store.

Thanks for answering. Every time I went to Viera, I thought it was in the middle of wide open spaces. I am sure development is closing in, since it's been about 3 years since we've been there. The FSL is a rare bird, and hard to pin down. The work is hard, and the rewards are modest. Unlike Lakeland, which has been affiliated with the Tigers for about 70 years, Viera has to sell the game. Much harder.

Speaking on Viera, it is growing at an exponential rate, especially on the outskirts of where Space Coast Stadium is located. A new high school just opened up across the street, with a pretty large Catholic church going in right next door. There have also been a couple pretty high-scale housing developments put in over the last 3 years.

Things are headed up, with the Nationals signing a long lease to stay in Viera and train. Long contract = more money and hopefully a better baseball sense among the Brevard community. The only problem is, once again, the Manatees are affiliated with the Brewers as opposed to the Nats.

Ecky

11-22-2006, 04:16 PM

From experience, the MLBAM website uploading is not easy for the average non-HTML friendly person...however it does look slick when you have scrolling front-page news items, online ticket sales, and an online merchandise store.

I found it a bit easier then the system we were using. Then again I am pretty good when it comes to the HTML thing. That's how I got the job I have now. :happy:

They would be using the MLBAM site now if we hadn't been pulled off the project. Sorry if I sound bitter but that was a major bone of contention with me.

Ecky

11-22-2006, 04:18 PM

I haven't beern out there to talk with anyone since the logo change. Shannon has been emailing significant items to a few of us as they come up. Nothing related so far.

Do they have merchandise available for the christmas season. I always felt bad when I was in the ticket office renewing spring training tickets and people would come to my office asking if we had any lakeland tigers gear onsale. Last year I think I said a couple times maybe in June. I hope they have some for spring training.

hueytaxi

11-22-2006, 04:52 PM

I don't know what is on order, or when Gary is manning the stand these days, i need to message him. The new shirts are in, the caps should be here by now from New Era. Some of the original merchandise is still available. Probably not too much different than when you left. Kay always told me in St that all the customer had to do to obtain Lakeland merchandise was to ask. Unfortunately, if they didn't talk to Connie or her daughter, the temps didn't know where to get it.

I look forward to the 18th to see what Ron will roll out for the new fan base. So far he has talked the talk pretty well. Let's walk now!

Ecky

11-22-2006, 04:54 PM

I gotta think that there will be a lot available on the 18th. Talk about getting off on the wrong foot if there isn't.

fyrftrjim

11-22-2006, 05:33 PM

hueytaxi

11-27-2006, 03:31 PM

From the old website ( lakelandtigers.net )

2006 Holiday Merchandise Sale

The Tiger Souvenir Stand will be open on Saturday from 10am - 5pm & Sunday from 12pm - 5pm on Dec. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 & 17.

falcon

11-27-2006, 04:35 PM

I believe that we will see a lot of West Michigan players at Erie along with the new coaching staff.

This will be a spring of change, with the minor league staff having secure contracts, they will be free to go on a real youth movement within the organization and ramp up the player development program.

The last trade is just an indication of what other organizations think of the depth and caliber of the minor league pitching prospects in the organization!

hueytaxi

11-28-2006, 09:01 PM

Been doing some Ebay shopping lately and found these:

Old time AVG Flight Scarf
http://i22.ebayimg.com/01/i/08/08/be/bb_2.JPG

Some flying Tigers hat or collar pins
http://i11.ebayimg.com/01/i/08/9a/03/08_2.JPG

And a cool t shirt
http://taildragger6.com/images/T-SHIRT58.JPG

redshark63

11-29-2006, 04:57 PM

indicates Premium Content | Copyright © 1999-2006 Baseball America Inc. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. All rights reserved

My bad.

Now deleted.

Thanks for the catch.

NATE

11-30-2006, 12:17 PM

This is a little off subject but not worthy of its own thread.

The Rays are wanting to play a regular season series with the Rangers at Disney World's spring training complex. The Rays are trying to become a regional/State of Florida team and are pursuing other venues in Florida to play some of their games.

In order to play the games at DW, they need to get permission from the FSL and from the Lakeland Fyling Tigers. I assume there are some territorial rights that need to be addressed.

fyrftrjim

11-30-2006, 12:24 PM

Yoda

12-01-2006, 06:37 AM

hueytaxi

12-02-2006, 12:47 PM

The Lakeland Gift Shop is open with 50% off most merchandise. Not including the new Flying Tigers merchandise, the WS or ALCS products.
http://www.lakelandtigers.net/default.asp

2006 Holiday Merchandise Sale
The Tiger Souvenir Stand will be open on Saturday from 10am - 5pm & Sunday from 12pm - 5pm on Dec. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 & 17.

Flying Tigers Fan Club meeting December 18 at noon in the Tiger Cafeteria, lunch will be served.
The caps for sale are unstructured adjustable in stone washed black; with the winged tigerhead logo. Lakeland is embroidered above and Flying Tigers below.

And thanks Wendy, I received two of the papers today! Others to come.

whitecapwendy

12-02-2006, 03:19 PM

You are welcome

Deadshot

12-02-2006, 11:43 PM

hueytaxi

12-03-2006, 12:42 AM

I was working today but my mom went out to Tigertown. She said she stood in line for about 45 minutes (and that Roger got behind her in line) and then she got me a couple of shirts. I really like the shirt with the plane on it.That's the shirt I was wearing and I recognized the lady and sorry I didn't remember it was your Mom.

Deadshot

12-03-2006, 06:44 AM

Not a big deal at all Roger; I don't think I have introduced you to my parents yet. Remind me to do that this coming season lol.

209A12

12-03-2006, 01:45 PM

For all you roadies, all but 3 of the FSL teams have posted their schedules. Lakeland will probably open with home & home vs Tampa, as is the custom in the FSL to open against the team closest to you. Tampa, Vero Beach, and Lakeland have yet to post schedules.

Mr.MelissaG915

12-06-2006, 10:36 AM

Maybe Lakeland needs a little of this!

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/app/news/article.jsp?ymd=20060930&content_id=135529&vkey=news_milb&fext=.jsp

Teams swap ideas at MiLB Promo Seminar
Record turnout analyzes what works, what doesn't in Minor Leagues
By Andrew Tarica / MLB.com

Execs say team mascots such as Jacksonville's Southpaw are an important part of team branding. (Jerry Hale/MLB.com)

"If you have an apple and I have an apple, and we exchange these apples, then you and I will still each have an apple. But if you have an idea and I have an idea and we exchange these ideas, then each of us will have two ideas." --George Bernard Shaw

CHARLOTTE -- The theme for this year's Minor League Baseball Promotion Seminar was "one idea is worth the price of admission."

If that's the case, then the 366 participants -- made up of Minor League front-office executives, public relations and marketing personnel and job seekers -- got their money's worth in the first hour of the four-day seminar, which took place Sept. 26-29 at the Hilton City Center in Charlotte.

With a packed house of veterans and first-timers, the seminar kicked off with a group-wide introduction -- with each attendee naming one promotional idea that worked for their team last season.

There was no shortage of fun, wacky promos listed as the microphone was passed around the room: Agriculture Night in Visalia (with an on-field cow-milking contest); Loaves of Bread Night in Rancho Cucamonga ("25,000 loaves given away!"); giant eyeball races in Winston-Salem ("fans love giant eyeballs"); Insignificant Events Night in Tri-City ("a tribute to nothing") and Kevin Federline Appreciation Day in Fresno ("in honor of our very own Mr. Britney Spears").

"This is a casual event with serious undertones," said Dan Migala, moderator of the Promotions Seminar and editor of The Migala Report, a sports industry business newsletter based in Chicago. "It's all about the sharing of ideas, and I think it makes this particular event unique."

This year's seminar was the largest ever with representatives from 95 teams around the country, along with Mexico and the Dominican Republic. There were 30 speakers over three days of panel discussions; three off-site events, including a ballpark tour of beautiful Knights Stadium in Fort Mill, S.C.; a job fair with a nearly 5:1 jobs-to-applicants ratio and a select group of three dozen exhibitors, showcasing the latest in promotional items, jerseys and stadium supplies.

One of the messages delivered during the seminar was to not be afraid to take a chance. For example, Myrtle Beach promotions manager Bradley Bell talked about his club's most outrageous promotion of the 2006 season: staging a live theatrical production of community theater in between innings of a Pelicans game. The play was called The Game is On and filled the ballpark with music, song and dance during its world premiere in July.

"The first reaction we got from most people was 'What in the world is this?'" Bell said. "But we wanted to come up with something new. And nothing like this had ever happened in baseball -- it may never happen again. But we were hoping for national media attention, and we got that."

Bell said The Game is On, which followed the story of three fans trying to catch a foul ball, was featured in ESPN magazine, Baseball America and MiLB.com's weekly Promo Preview as well as local TV and news. Attendance increased 30 percent during its three-night run.

The players and even the coaches got a kick out of the Pelicans play. "It sounds crazy but we didn't interfere with the actual game at all," said Bell, who got his start in Minor League Baseball in 2003 working as a ticket seller for the Durham Bulls. "We got a lot of compliments from the players and coaches."

Developing your brand was another theme of the seminar. This extends to everything from the team's nickname to its colors to the ballpark and even to the mascot.

"When you're developing a new mascot, don't start with what it looks like," said Dave Raymond, owner of the Raymond Entertainment Group. "Start with the mascots' personality profile and bio."

Raymond described a pivotal moment in his life, before taking the field for the first time dressed as the original Phillie Phanatic. He hadn't been given much direction on what to do and turned to then-owner Bill Giles for advice. "He told me to 'go out there and have fun.' Well, I was a college student, and I certainly knew how to do that. Of course, it had to be G-rated fun."

Thirty years later, after a career spent delivering the subtle message that Phillies baseball was fun, Raymond said "the Phanatic is firmly entrenched in the hearts of minds of Philadelphia."

Some teams apply commando-style tactics to their branding. For example, Greensboro president/GM Donald Moore said before his club officially switched its name to the Grasshoppers in October 2004, he used to go to a supply store on the edge of town, where he'd buy 150 to 200 live grasshoppers at a time to release in the brand-new First Horizon Ballpark.

"Nobody on the staff even knew I was doing this, but I'd just let these grasshoppers go," said Moore. "We really wanted our fans to catch the bug."

Along with branding and not being afraid to take a chance, there are other challenges facing Minor League Baseball teams. Derrick Grubbs, general manager of the Round Rock Express, talked about dealing with the "homestand from hell -- and living to talk about it."

Grubbs -- who is in his 16th season in professional baseball, having worked for the Wichita Wranglers, El Paso Diablos, Houston Astros, Charlotte Knights and New Orleans Zephyrs -- preached the importance of planning ahead for those "hot spots" during the season, such as when Round Rock played 17 home games during 21 days in August.

"If you anticipate disaster, you're always one step closer to the bomb shelter," Grubbs said. "When we're working together, it's a lot easier to get through it."

Round Rock made national headlines this past season when seven-time Cy Young Award winner Roger Clemens pitched there as part of his Rocket relaunch with the Astros. Among the Express-record 13,475 fans at The Dell Diamond that night were seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong and actor Matthew McConaughey, sitting in the front row next to the Express dugout.

"It was a real special night," Grubbs said. "When you have a chance to be on the national stage, just make sure you cross all the T's. Make sure you embrace the event; don't let the event embrace you."

Minor League Baseball's role in the community was another prominent theme at the Promo Seminar. For instance, Lisa Walker, VP of marketing for the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes, gave a presentation entitled "How Community Relations Can Positively Affect Your Attendance."

Walker, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000, explained the rationale behind her club's fifth-anniversary Breast Cancer Awareness promotion in 2006. "The whole program was about celebrating the cancer survivors in our community," she said. "So we brought them on the field; they met the players and threw out first pitches. It was really a celebration because frankly everyday is a gift."

The club decided not to hit up fans for fund-raising during the promotion. "We didn't want it to be in your face," Walker said. But the Volcanoes obtained sponsorships from a local oncologist and a pharmaceutical company to offset the costs and generate a profit.

"Community involvement drives ticket sales, and this offers us the chance to give back," Walker said. "It's the kind of promotion that never goes stale."

A five-pack of Minor League promo ideas
There was no shortage of clever ideas for promos at the Minor League Baseball Promotional Seminar.
"One of the great things about this industry is being able to get great ideas from other clubs," Stockton Ports general manager Pat Fillipone said. "If you can tweak these ideas to your own market, you'll look like a superhero."

Here are five ideas that could help you look like Superman at a ballpark near you (costume not included):

Nothing Night -- Courtesy of the Lake Elsinore Storm, the team's staff honored this promotion last season by doing absolutely nothing at the ballpark. There was no PA announcer, no concessions, no nothing.

IronBird for a Day -- Aberdeen ran this promotion in 2006 that allowed a local fan to be a player for a day. Fans filled out entry forms at a local pizzeria, which sponsored the event, and the winner got to take part in BP, infield and even coached some first base.

Sportswriters Clinic -- This event in Stockton proved to be great opportunity for local high school kids to come to the ballpark and meet the beat writers covering the Ports.

Naturalization Ceremony on July 4 -- The Memphis Redbirds took fireworks a step further with an on-field ceremony during which 200 people from countries all over the world became U.S. citizens. It was also the largest crowd in AutoZone Park history.

Chase the Bunny -- The concept is simple: Dress up someone in a bunny suit and have them run around the outfield, chased by a group of kids. Jacksonville GM Kirk Goodman admits to thinking it was the "dumbest idea we'd ever heard" at first. "But the fans went crazy, the kids loved it, and we do it all year now."

--A.T.

Andrew Tarica is an editor for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

hueytaxi

12-06-2006, 01:21 PM

As I recall, only Ron Meyers, the Lakeland Director of Operations attended this seminar. I was surprised that the idea people didn't go. Or possilby Ron adds more than I know.

Ecky

12-06-2006, 05:52 PM

As I recall, only Ron Meyers, the Lakeland Director of Operations attended this seminar. I was surprised that the idea people didn't go. Or possilby Ron adds more than I know.

(cough)

209A12

12-06-2006, 10:05 PM

(cough)
(nudge)

hueytaxi

12-07-2006, 01:33 PM

(nudge)(cough-cough) (nudge-nudge):crosseye:

hueytaxi

12-08-2006, 07:28 PM

Just found another neat retro Flying Tiger cap out therehttp://www.uswings.com/images/flyingtigerscap506_225.jpg

and yeah...I got one.

grandma g

12-08-2006, 08:19 PM

Just found another neat retro Flying Tiger cap out therehttp://www.uswings.com/images/flyingtigerscap506_225.jpg

and yeah...I got one.
Will they be for sale @ ST at the souvenir shop? Don will have to have one...if they still have them end of March....

hueytaxi

12-08-2006, 11:44 PM

Will they be for sale @ ST at the souvenir shop? Don will have to have one...if they still have them end of March....Sorry, these are an Ebay item. Near the bottom. http://www.uswings.com/ftigers.asp

Deadshot

12-09-2006, 12:01 AM

Just wondering, but did anyone else go to the Lakeland parade and see the Tigers float?

209A12

12-10-2006, 10:42 PM

Missed the parade, but we're ready to jump on the bandwagon Dec 18th. Huey tells me the menu will be a choice of C-rations or K-rations. P38's available.

hueytaxi

12-10-2006, 11:19 PM

Got Spam?

whitecapwendy

12-11-2006, 04:24 PM

Got Spam?
:silly: LOL, after WW2, my dad would not touch spam again. To this day, he has never touched the stuff.

NATE

12-11-2006, 04:49 PM

When we moved from Oregon to Ohio, we stopped at the Spam Musuem in Austin, MN. Yes, they have a museum for SPAM. Austin is the home of Hormel Foods, makers of spam.

Believe it or not, it was one of the most entertaining (and informative in its own way) museums I have ever visited.

Ecky

12-13-2006, 07:08 PM

I am hoping that its not finished. But the new site seems to be up. Its got Lakeland Tigers stuff mixed with Flying Tigers stuff. the Store is old, and there are a lot of errors throughout the site. I do like the logo though.

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/app/index.jsp?sid=t570

Yoda

12-13-2006, 07:17 PM

I love the swarm of planes on the right-hand side.

hueytaxi

12-13-2006, 08:20 PM

The lead article states that the home opener is against Tampa on 4/6 and the schedule shows 4/5 with 4/6 an away game. I hope the ticket office hours are correct so I won't waste a trip in the AM to get my regular seats.

LkldDave

12-13-2006, 08:54 PM

The lead article