Pantagraph.com | News | Would minor league baseball play in Normal?

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

think about it wrote on Feb 21, 2008 12:49 AM:

" If everyone's concern is about the market size for a minor league baseball team, I know of a minor league baseball team, that is Class A so it is MLB associated, that survives in a town of 30,000 people (think about how many people live in the B/N area). And this is a team that has survived with one of the oldest ballparks in history. It doesnt take much to support a minor league team. So for everyone who believes its not possible, stop talking for the people out there who love good old fashioned down home American baseball "

Are you serious! wrote on Feb 21, 2008 12:45 AM:

" Are you serious?? This is a reply to "Call Them As I See Them" are you serious!!!! How do you think that putting a minor league baseball team in town would cause disastrous results because of steroids that occur in Major League Baseball. Who's to say that the NFL, NHL, MLS, or NBA doesnt have any of these problems. Its obvious to see that yes, the side effects of steroids have problems where people can lose their temper but are you serious?!?! Do you really think a bunch of minor league baseball players will take so many steroids that they will destory the Twin Cities area? You have got to be kidding yourself. Baseball is America's pastime and to be seen in America's heartland would be a very refreshing sight to anyone looking to just spend a wonderful afternoon at the ballpark. "

TJ wrote on Sep 27, 2007 9:18 AM:

" There is already so much money in the coliseum building a baseball field is a lot less money than an arena baseball players might want more money than hockey or football. "

If wrote on Sep 25, 2007 4:41 PM:

" The city trys half as hard to get a baseball team as they did shoving that coliseum down our throat,We can get a team...... Independant leagues are the way to go...................... "

CU Guy wrote on Sep 25, 2007 10:59 AM:

" It looks like BN is going to lose out on a Frontier League team as an investor group from Northbrook has announced they are bringing a team affiliated with the Frontier to Champaign...with no Midwest League or Frontier League option available...due to geographic perogative of teams in Champaign and Peoria looks like the Normal stadium issue may be a moot point. "

College Baseball wrote on Sep 25, 2007 8:59 AM:

" Sorry I refuse to watch one of the worst college baseball teams in D1 and i also refuse to watch D3 ball so bring in the minor league team only if they will have a pro affiliation, non of this independent league crap "

Take me out to the ball game... wrote on Sep 24, 2007 12:20 PM:

" I wanna LOCAL Baseball Team !!!!!! Sure the college has a Team, But Blue collar Locals here in fly over country are seldom made to feel welcome at ISU events. We need OUR OWN team. Put me in for a ticket to EVERY home game !!!!!!! BEER and A DOG Please : ) "

Mama K wrote on Sep 24, 2007 10:51 AM:

" If there that many baseball fans in town I'd think the college games would be more packed. We have 2 college teams in town and unless they are all standing room only I don't know that another team is really needed. Lets support the teams we already have. "

bill l. wrote on Sep 24, 2007 6:14 AM:

" The late Duffy Bass when asked the question about minor league baseball in Bloomington-Normal, said it wouldn't work. These are not blue collar communities, he explained. "

A Friend wrote on Sep 23, 2007 10:29 PM:

" The Juvenile Delinquent says that “a venture like this would result in costing the tax payers alot of money”. How would he possibly know that? He is the self-proclaimed expert on every subject. A typical Libertarian view of "if he doesn’t like it, then it must be wrong". What happened to freedom of choice? If someone wants to try and start a minor league baseball team, let them try. BTW – it’s the law. "

I'm scared! wrote on Sep 23, 2007 2:00 PM:

" Oh, this scares me! What if they build a baseball stadium and have games there? Does that mean I might have another opportunity to do something besides sit and home and complain on this blog? I don't know if I'd want to leave my house. There are people out there. Like someone else pointed-out, this stadium will be located within a couple of miles of Section 8 housing. Like we know, they have murders there EVERY day! The crime rate there is probably 5000 times the national average! Sure, it's still a fraction of the crime rate in Peoria, but I don't mind driving there. I'd rather spend my gas and time driving to Peoria instead of doing anything locally. And then what if I actually enjoy myself? So many people on this blog obviously haven't had a good time in years. We might all cry if we had fun. We'd be so scared because we wouldn't have anything to complain about anymore. No, wait, we'd have no problems finding something else to complain about. "

ONLY IF..... wrote on Sep 23, 2007 1:05 PM:

" Don't bring a minor league team unless it is atleast Class A, I would not think twice about coming to a game if it was apart of an independent league. If it is atleast class A you will get the opportunity to see future pro prospects "

MY KID Wants to Surf? wrote on Sep 23, 2007 12:58 AM:

" Could you build an ocean please? I know it would be more responsible if I just packed up my family and moved to Cal-i-forn-i-a but while we are building everything else here, we might as well build an ocean too! Never can have too much you know. Imagine the quality of life for everyone if we only had an ocean! Surely it will pay for itself because we will finally have been smart enough to build something that every other town our size within 50 miles doesn't have. Put it next to the arena and take out some flood insurance. "

to duh wrote on Sep 21, 2007 10:10 PM:

" Nerd alert, nerd alert. "

GM to Ralph wrote on Sep 21, 2007 10:08 PM:

" I hope, for your sake, that your sob story about income and taxes is bogus. There are many ways of manuevering through the tax system being self-employed. "

to: Shaolin wrote on Sep 21, 2007 2:41 PM:

" Glad to hear of your educational accomplishments. However, you must have been absent the day they taught how to spell "brawn." I'm a high school drop out and I know that. "

YES wrote on Sep 21, 2007 7:33 AM:

" Just make sure you move in another crime infested housing project from Chicago to pay for it, and put it downtown where noone can park close. Recipe for instant success!! "

JTF wrote on Sep 21, 2007 6:28 AM:

" Interesting that the talk about the coliseum in Blm is always about the cost and not the fun that the people that attend the games have. Here, many people are posting saying it will be fun, and little is said of the cost. Much of the fun is related to the comfort of the surroundings. The articles mentioned that Marion and Peoria built parks costing up to $18 million, or over half the cost of the coliseum in Blm. If Councilman Nielsen gets his way, Normal might subsidize this ballpark. Or if Heartland Comm College builds anything more than a college ballpark, will the home baseball games alone be able to support that cost, or will everyone in B-N and other places covered by Heartland end up paying for it? "

Call Them As I See Them wrote on Sep 21, 2007 3:45 AM:

" Latest on pro wrestler who offed his wife and kid - brain cells dead from too many concussions. Latest football player who'll be lucky to walk again - one too many blows to the spinal column. Latest O.J. defense - too many concussions, lost too many brain cells - will it be the facts coming from the sports organizations themselves fighting for health insurance for all the crippled ex-football players who allowed their bodies to be destroyed for the love of the game? Latest science - as little as three concussions can cause irreparable brain damage which leads to violent emotional states. Oh we're talking baseball, not football or wrestling - pass the steroids then. More aggressive behaviors result. How about Hulk Hogan - body ravaged by out of control steroid use. "

JP wrote on Sep 20, 2007 8:44 PM:

" Yes!!!! I volunteer to be bat boy or the 3rd base coach or the announcer or the people who sit down the lines & make sure you don't snag a foul ball or the home plate umpire or the guy who muds up the balls. And not necessarily in that order. Oh, the mascot too. "

Ralph wrote on Sep 19, 2007 9:33 PM:

" If the minor league team comes to fruition and plays at a Heartland Community College Stadium, the Heartland Community College taxpayers will end subsidizing the team directly or indirectly. Just look to the Coliseum. I am self employed, make less than $50,000 a year and pay over half my income in taxes. Approximately 15% for Social Security and Medicare (self employed pay both halves), State & Federal taxes, property taxes, sales tax ranging from about 7.5% to 10%, utility taxes on phone, electric, natural gas, gasoline taxes. Why should everyone pay taxes for the amusement of a few who attend the games and the "community leaders" who enjoy creating these bottomless money pits? "

Alphonse wrote on Sep 19, 2007 8:34 PM:

" I'd go to some games if we had a minor league team. i love to sit in the stands, get a beer and a hot dog, heckle the other team, and all that wholesome stuff. I'm no economist, so I can't say if it'd be a good idea or not, but I'd go if I could. "

Twin Cities Twins wrote on Sep 19, 2007 3:11 PM:

" It's OBVIOUS they should be a Twins affiliate, c'mon. Twin Cities! Anyway, back to reality, I would love a minor league baseball team in town. Especially by Heartland Comm College, since it's near where I live. I would support the team and certainly try to make it if they were that close. I say go for it! "

Shaolin wrote on Sep 19, 2007 12:43 PM:

" Apparently my engineering degree and formerly being a high school valedictorian are just a sham, since being an athlete makes me just a "braindead jock". I happened to very much enjoy getting athletic tickets from Unit 5 even though we already had season tickets to whatever event was being advertised - that's right, I didn't even have to be lured to athletic events. Brains and braun CAN coexist. Let's keep the focus on whether a team could benefit the people of B-N instead of slinging around prejudicial terms. "

just a mom wrote on Sep 19, 2007 9:48 AM:

" I think bringing a baseball team like this to Bloomington Normal is great. For all of you to call these kids stupid jocks that play baseball , you are the ones that are stupid. These are not stupid kids, they have to get good grades to play ball, and they work very hard at something that they love to do. I would rather see them doing something that is good for them, than for them to be out running the streets and causing problems in our community. Most of these kids in high school that play baseball have a dream of playing ball at a college level and furthering their baseball to a higher level after that. I think that bringing this to Bloomington is great, and everyone should be in support of every kid in Blm. normal even the so called jocks. My family loves baseball and we love to watch our kids play every day as we love to watch others, for those of you that think baseball is boring maybe your just a boring person. Everyone should be in support of our kids and our community. GREAT IDEA!! "

GO BASEBALL wrote on Sep 19, 2007 7:19 AM:

" BASEBALL BEEN VERY VERY GOOD TO ME. "

Spooky wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:44 PM:

" Curiousity is absolutley killing me! What is it all you anti-sports folks consider enjoyable use of your free time? I'm an open minded braindead washed up jock...enlighten me. "

The problem wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:23 PM:

" Now why in the world would anyone float the idea of building another stadium? "

To: Fed up wrote on Sep 18, 2007 9:17 PM:

" If you wanted a small town, you should have moved somewhere else. Bloomington-Normal are not small towns anymore; this is one of the fastest growing urban areas in Illinois. If you think either city is a small farming community, you are stuck in the 70s. "

To: NO MORE BALLTEAMS wrote on Sep 18, 2007 4:59 PM:

" "Hello, (knocking on your head), is anyone in there?" Unless the object of your obesssion is now the mayor of Normal, it has nothing to do with anyone else except people living in NORMAL. You and your fellow 'townspeople' need to understand that you don't live in the city of Bloomingtonnormal, and no one from Bloomington has anything to do with this idea, which will likely happen because wealthy people love to invest in sports team ownership. "

To: Duh- It's a Ball wrote on Sep 18, 2007 3:53 PM:

" Wait...aren't you stereotyping "jocks" as "brain-dead"? Are more enlightened types such as yourself supposed be above stereotyping and profiling? "

Fed up wrote on Sep 18, 2007 3:22 PM:

" I moved to a small town 'cause I want a small town. Stop trying to be something else Blm?Nml. A small farming comunity that happens to have good collrges, ISU & IWU. "

NO MORE BALLTEAMS wrote on Sep 18, 2007 9:02 AM:

" If the townspeople say no to a baseball team, talk to Judy. She'll ok it. And we can lose more money and us townspeople who could care less about baseball, football, and hockey can pay for that too !!!!! Hey briliant idea, lets try OTHER sports.. as in a racetrack.... "

Sure wrote on Sep 18, 2007 7:01 AM:

" As long as my taxes are not paying for it. Go ahead. "

Thomas wrote on Sep 17, 2007 7:35 PM:

" Our Government has lost the air show and the Corvette show. Turned away a race track. Now they want this? HAHAHA. "

HOORAY wrote on Sep 17, 2007 11:46 AM:

" YES,I want BASEBALL !!!!! "

To: Duh- It's a Ball wrote on Sep 16, 2007 9:54 PM:

" I'd love to hear you repeat in person your incredibly ignorant statements about 'brain dead jocks' to the student athletes on scholarships who play your hated sports, the parents of public schol students who play on teams, the coaches and the students who receive tickets to sporting events who you believe are dumb for enjoying sporting events. Without question, you are one bitter nerd. "

Duh - It's A Ball wrote on Sep 16, 2007 2:33 PM:

" Again, better question is why is the public always asked to financially and emotionally support the brain-dead jocks throwing or kicking a ball around? Guess what Unit Five gives out to "reward" their straight A students? You guessed it - Free tickets to ISU basketball games...no option for an ISU play, or concert - just a jock fest - trying to dumb down the smart ones to their level, no doubt. "

Nova wrote on Sep 16, 2007 1:06 PM:

" Hockey is a great sport. You only hate it because you know nothing about it. I would rather sit at the ballpark or at the hockey arena then to watch cars go around in an oval.....ho-hum. "

to Again...... wrote on Sep 15, 2007 6:41 PM:

" Why does a "good time" always have to equate to watching a bunch of braindead jocks throw a ball around? "

More Books, Less Cruex wrote on Sep 15, 2007 2:57 PM:

" Stop using taxpayer money to attract more jocks to the area. No matter how "private" the financing, public monies will come into play - they always do. I used to believe Heartland College was about education - Astroth has definitely changed all that - no school seeking to become an extension of the high school athletics experience will ever get my vote for any money on any referendum...same goes for Unit Five. Coliseum is doing so well, Redbird Arena is doing so well, hey let's add another unsupported league to this town. "

People wrote on Sep 14, 2007 9:12 PM:

" read what they want into these stories. The article clearly states that the Peoria Chiefs organization "has territorial rights that would preclude a Major League farm team from taking root in Bloomington-Normal". So all of the comments talking about a rivalry and a major league affilliation or completely incorrect. If you were a true fan of baseball, you could attend ISU or IWU games and see comparable talent. With that said, it could be cheap entertainment for the family. My experience in taking the family to Peoria Chiefs games is that the wife and kids could care less about the game. But they love the entertainment between innings and after the game. "

To: T wrote on Sep 14, 2007 6:13 PM:

" Sorry, but the average crowd at 38 home games was 3,764. I have season tickets and made almost every game. If you had really been there, you'd know better. At all but a few games, the bowl was crowded, and if there were mass vacancies, they were at the very ends and within the season seats. Seats that are sold may appear empty because the ticket wasn't used or because the ticket holder is out in the concourse partying. But, your claim of 1300 is about a third of the actual, and its clear that something's wrong with your estimating ability. "

The Voice in the cornfield wrote on Sep 14, 2007 5:33 PM:

" If you build it, they will come...... "

heres an idea wrote on Sep 14, 2007 5:19 PM:

" lets ask judy and tom what they think. they seem to know whats best for all of us !! and then do the opposite! "

Funny wrote on Sep 14, 2007 4:06 PM:

" The Arena vs Baseball. The Arena people convinced Bloomington to build this and the tax burden will fall on the citizens of Bloomington. The Baseball people are talking to Normal and Heartland. The Heartland taxbase is much larger than Bloomingtons. So...The city of Bloomington built something for everyone in the area and it is costing the Bloomington taxpayer. A baseball stadium to benefit everyone in the area really would be paid for by everyone. Wait I live in Bloomington...Now it isn't so funny! "

Peoria wrote on Sep 14, 2007 3:57 PM:

" uh...let's see...last time I checked there are a few more people living there. Larger fan base to draw from? I believe you are correct, but this plays into the equation as well. "

to To: to Oh shut up wrote on Sep 14, 2007 1:44 PM wrote on Sep 14, 2007 3:09 PM:

" you must be thinking of soccer....without beer, baseball is nothing more than nap fuel "

I wonder... wrote on Sep 14, 2007 2:56 PM:

" How many of the people who are posting here ever went to a CICL game? And it had good prospects. "

Easy e wrote on Sep 14, 2007 2:43 PM:

" Great idea but with the cheapskates in Blo-No, it would fail. We don't need another fiasco like we saw with the Extreme (stupid name) and Thunder. Better to build another Kohl's so the middle-aged, 80's haircut-wearing, 50 lbs. overweight ladies in this town could buy more Christmas sweaters at "40% off". "

Again...... wrote on Sep 14, 2007 2:28 PM:

" Peoria does pretty well with their minor league team. Guess maybe Peoria has people who cares about and support their community rather than complain about everything. Oh yea and people that like to have a good time. "

To: T wrote on Sep 14, 2007 2:23 PM:

" Evidently you have only been to one game...I go to almost all of the games and I can tell you first hand that they draw way more than 1300 people. "

Love It wrote on Sep 14, 2007 2:21 PM:

" Where and when can I get season tickets? This is an awesome idea! I believe a minor league baseball team would be great for the community. I believe the coliseum is great for the community too. Having these options makes Bloomington/Normal a more attractive community for people to come for entertainment, work, investments, living, and so on. This is exciting news about a possible minor league baseball team and I hope it proceeds and becomes fact as I can't wait to help support this entertainment option. Go Normal - make it happen! "

To: RA RA wrote on Sep 14, 2007 2:13 PM:

" Your life must not be complete w/o coming on every article or opinion column about the arena, sports, etc. and making the same comments. I would love to see what type of life you have. I am sure it would make a good reality show! "

To Just Forget It wrote on Sep 14, 2007 1:59 PM:

" what I would like to know is how much of a loyal fan will you be when you have to pay an exise tax on every game you attend. Are you willing to pay an extra 25 or 30 bucks to help offset the cost of the dome you love? I would say you are not. Fact is if you had any real money you would have something to do elsewhere than the U S Cellulose Coli Cost You. So lets see what you Tom Hamilton, Judy Markowitless have to say when U are the ones paying for this white elepahant and not your fellow taxpayers who know it is bogus. "

To: to Oh shut up wrote on Sep 14, 2007 1:44 PM:

" You're kidding me, right? Hockey scores are what...2-1? Whee. I want action, sunlight, hotdogs, and the ambiance a real stadium would provide. Hocky blows huge nuggets. "

Sweet Meat Peat wrote on Sep 14, 2007 12:42 PM:

" I once went to a fight and a hockey game broke out. "

Just forget it wrote on Sep 14, 2007 12:20 PM:

" Most Bloomington/Normal residents dont even appreciate their football and hockey teams. They rather complain about the dome. Can you imagine if they had to pay for a baseball stadium too. The blogs would be through the roof. By the way, stadiums are almost always built with govt money. Team owners are too smart to build one on there own. "

Eldert wrote on Sep 14, 2007 12:14 PM:

" Our community is so negative because there is too many republicans in this town "

to Oh shut up wrote on Sep 14, 2007 12:14 PM:

" Hockey is much more exciting than baseball. there is what maybe 20 minutes of action in 3 hours. "

LMAO wrote on Sep 14, 2007 12:13 PM:

" LMAO IN REPLY TO BIG MAN. "

TO Big man wrote on Sep 14, 2007 12:08 PM:

" WHAT? WHat does this have to do with anything? What are you even talking about...wait...I know...one of the ISU women's basketball players turned you donw for a date..it all akes sense now. "

Big Man wrote on Sep 14, 2007 11:32 AM:

" If they do get a team here, I hope there is more interest in it than there is in ISU women's basketball. What a joke. Too bad the joke is on the taxpayers that have to flip the bill to open Redbird arena so 1000 "fans" can come into an arena that holds 10,000 and watch 10 big sweaty females lope around on a basketball court. Have the women play at Metcalf or UHigh and save the taxpayers the burden financially. "

re: to Oh shut up wrote on Sep 14, 2007 11:29 AM:

" ditto hockey sucks "

People in this town wrote on Sep 14, 2007 11:25 AM:

" complain that there's "nothing to do," but when someone wants to bring in something for "you to do," all you do is shoot it down and complain about it. Is there any pleasing you people? This community is so full of negativity it's absolutely pathetic! "

chris wrote on Sep 14, 2007 11:22 AM:

" This would be a great addition to bloomington normal and would open up opportunities for local players to get a chance to further their baseball careers. As long as they have good scouting and bring some good players to their team they should be fun to watch! "

wool over your eyes wrote on Sep 14, 2007 11:12 AM:

" While reading the article you need to pay close attention to the part about territorial rights. No minor league team with major league affliation can play in Normal because Peoria has the rights. The type of baseball you'd get would be Frontier League (subminor league level) with teams from towns like Sauget, IL, Loves Park, IL, Marion, IL , Slippery Rock, PA. This is definitely lower quality baseball than the Peoria Chiefs Class A ball club. Don't think for a minute that your taxpaying dollars won't be paying for upkeep and maintenance on the park for years after it is built. "

Oh shut up... wrote on Sep 14, 2007 10:36 AM:

" Those of you saying "Minor league hockey is failing, baseball woudl fail too" are just ignorant. NO ONE likes hockey. Period. Hockey is the worst of the big 4 sports. "

YES!! wrote on Sep 14, 2007 10:34 AM:

" This would be awesome. We love going to the Chiefs games in Peoria, but the price of gas sucks, so we don't do it as much as we'd like. Bring Baseball here! "

hayesk0304 wrote on Sep 14, 2007 10:33 AM:

" YAY! No driving an hour for baseball! Yes, we can support it. "

Re: Please wrote on Sep 14, 2007 10:14 AM:

" Give us all a break from this stuff...We have ISU, IWU, Peoria Chiefs, and our own kids baseball...forget it! "

$$$ wrote on Sep 14, 2007 10:06 AM:

" If they are looking for an invester....I believe Mr. Rust at State Farm made over $11 million this year...... Reinvest in the community. "

TO COB wrote on Sep 14, 2007 10:04 AM:

" That idea was considered. Mayor Jesse Smart of Bloomington talked about a complex with 1-2 high schools, the fairgrounds, the soccer and Pony League fields, and maybe even Heartland Community College, about 11-12 years ago, before the current Heartland, NCHS, CCHS, and the Interstate Center facilities were built. The idea was to pool facilities and parking to save $$, and there was a spot for a future arena and baseball park, hotels, etc. I think the proposed site was around Towanda-Barnes and Ireland Grove Roads, where the fairgrounds (Farm Bureau) already owned about 100 acres. After Judy Markowitz was elected mayor in 1997, the idea was dropped and even after that, Judy didn't want to consider the airport area as a site for the arena, preferring downtown instead. "

uH HUH wrote on Sep 14, 2007 10:03 AM:

" YEA IT IS FOOTBALL SEASON "

To: Do Your Homework & FAN SUPPORT wrote on Sep 14, 2007 9:55 AM:

" The CICL to date has pushed 169 players through to the MAJOR LEAUGES, not including those who have been spent time in the minors league system. Everyone here so far seems to say that they will go to these games, but the CICL has been around for 44 years and nobody came. People didn't show up when Mike Schmidt, Ryan Howard, Jonathon Papelbon, Neal Cotts, and noteable others played in Bloomington so why would thousands flock to see a baseball team(s) that is by far a level under that? "

Why? wrote on Sep 14, 2007 9:55 AM:

" Baseball is sooo boring. "

FOR REAL wrote on Sep 14, 2007 9:50 AM:

" "Hey NOW" I agree with what you are saying that there is a semi-pro football team in town the TWIN CITY DAWGS, they play at ISU and get about 200 fans far from 2,000 at their games. It is very affordable family entertainment, local high school and college stars play, when they try to get local support they are shut down I know we are comapring football and baseball but what I am saying is it is one thing to say see you at the game another to get the fans in the stands. The DAWGS play at ISU under the lights and are playing for the Division Championship Sat night so come on out and support local hometown talent this SAT. tickets $5 for adults $1 kids 6-12 and under 5 & orver 65 FREE. The Great Midwest Football League will be playing league championship game at ISU Oct 6th . There is local talent already here in Normal...become a DAWGS fan and get ready for 2008 season, June to Oct. All this talk shows that there are baseball fans WHERE ARE ALL THE FOOTBALL FANS???? "

To: T wrote on Sep 14, 2007 9:42 AM:

" Your quoted attendance is way low. The Prairie Thunder averaged about 3600 per home game, and was third, almost second, in attendance for its league. The Extreme averaged about 5700 per game, the highest in its league, and the league's all-star game here last month drew about 5200. The PT have just played only one season, and the Extreme two, so the question is whether those numbers can be sustained. "

Dead Birds wrote on Sep 14, 2007 9:40 AM:

" I think before the town of Normal or even Bloomington starts thinking about building a ball diamond for minor league baseball, or even private money...there is another need for baseball ISU it needs a better place to play...why not combine ISU, Heartland, Unit 5, Normal, and Bloomington into preparing ideas for this...we have one field that has gone from bad to worse...Legion field....we have all these great ideas in Bloomington and Uppity Normal but some of the old ones need to be addressed first, we lost the air show and the corvette show...how would those look today....I attended both almost every year they were here...but now baseball, I love baseball, I used to attend Legion games, no Legion team...now all we have are elite travel teams with parents as coaches with agendas for their children "

chiefs fan wrote on Sep 14, 2007 9:33 AM:

" I guess not many of the people commenting about bringing a minor league team to B/N actually read the article. go back and read the quote from the commish of the midwest league. B/N can't have a minor league team with a major league connection. good luck with the frontier league thing tho. you may now go back to whining about your arena that none of you support! "

Softball has always been popular here, so... wrote on Sep 14, 2007 9:30 AM:

" …why not baseball? Peoria controls this area for any major-league-affiliated clubs, so Normal would have to go with either the Northern or Frontier leagues, which are lower, but still acceptable, quality. Marion is a town of 17,000, in southern Illinois, in the Frontier League. They built an $18 million ballpark with money from Gov. Blago, and I hear it is quite nice. The coliseum in Bloomington cost almost twice that (although it includes a public ice rink and parking deck), although a baseball park has a limited function and season compared to an indoor facility. I'm not sure what O'Brien Field in Peoria cost, but it is also very comfortable. I think baseball here could be successful if the team played 45-50 home games and drew around 150,000 fans for the season, maybe less if subsidized. If the town doesn’t do it, Councilman Nielsen has been discussing this with Heartland College. The team would be privately owned, but Heartland could subsidize the ballpark itself, since its board just voted to build athletic facilities of its own. The possible disadvantage is that any subsidy would come from real estate taxes because that's where the college gets its money. "

to Former Heartland Supporter wrote on Sep 14, 2007 9:20 AM:

" Your comment "ask Springfield about that" completely negates your argument. I grew up in the Springfield area and B-N is nothing like Springfield. Springfield is a dead sports town (other than SH-G football), and they refused to renovate/update Lanphier Park. Once they let the Cardinals AAA affiliate slip through their grasp the rest was history. The were able to tread water with the Class A affiliate, but that's about it. Couple that with the fact that Lanphier Park is in an aging, higher-crime area and you've got an outcome such as Springfield's. B-N has a much better economy than Springfield, where B-N is actually growing. Springfield is losing residents to the surrounding communitites at a fast pace. Comparing Springfield to B-N is "apples and oranges". "

TO: Do Your Homework wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:53 AM:

" I agree with you. I've been to Frontier League games before. The Frontier League is somewhere between Juco and D-3 baseball. Some decent players that probably wouldn't make it past High Class A ball with an affiliated team. I don't know why the Stars didn't draw more. Quincy and Danville regurlarly draw 3-4000 fans for Gems and Dans games. If we can't do this for Stars, then I don't think B-N would do the same for a minor league team. "

OutofBloomington wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:52 AM:

" I used to do almost everything in this area and now there is NOTHING to do. We go to Farmer City, Fairbury, Lincoln, etc.. for racing. We go to Peoria for baseball. It would definitely be nice to get either or better yet, BOTH, of these sports established in Bloomington so I could get BackIntoBloomington!!!! I'm for it as long as it is affordable to the average person in regard to attendance! "

Former Heatland Supporter wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:47 AM:

" The original intent of the area in question was to be set aside as a "green space" learning laboratory for Heartland and the local community. The new requirements brought on by a stadium rather than a playing field which ISU has, will result in elimination of many of those areas. Many local groups have come and planted trees and worked on the wetlands. When the minor league team leaves after a few years, ask Springfield about that, then what happens? "

fyi socialists wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:41 AM:

" Comrades: Information on Russian baseball can be found at www.internationalbaseball.org/russia "

Let's do it! wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:39 AM:

" I am definitely up for a baseball team in B-N..as long as they stick to the idea of it being privately owned. B-N has an enormous baseball fan base. For thos of you who think B-N residents don't travel to Peoria Chief games - you're crazy. They even hold a B-N night over there every year. With B-N being 1/2 way between STL and Chicago - I think it'd be a great idea. It'd give the baseball community something to do and be excited about when you're unable to make it to a MLB game. I would definitely approve of a co-op type situation with Heartland on getting a stadium built...great idea!!! "

WaHoo wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:37 AM:

" Bring IT ON! We need a team. Try and get a White Sox single A team. "

Play Ball wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:24 AM:

" I'm a big baseball fan and would enjoy and support a local minor league team. A few times a year I get over to Peoria to see the Chiefs. Obviously, a team in town would be more convenient. I would support the team but agree with other posters that the field should be built with private funds. If a deal can be worked with Heartland that should help with funding. I think the team could be successful financially if the investors can get some of the local businesses involved, i.e. State Farm/Country Companies (renting out luxury boxes). Look forward to seeing the outcome of this. "

Great idea!!! wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:24 AM:

" We think it would be a great idea! Our family has talked about this for years that we need a minor league team. We have a blast over in Peoria at the Chiefs games. So, why can't Bloomington/Normal do the same?? I think baseball is big enough in this town that there would not be a problem with attendance. All for it!!!! "

To COB wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:18 AM:

" You mentioned a possible snag with Peoria having territorial rights. This would only apply if we were bringing in an affiliated team. If we go with an independent league, Peoria would have nothing to say about it. Well they may have a lot to say, but you get my point. "

Season Ticket Holder wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:16 AM:

" Sign me up! Frontier league is a great option for an independent team. They already have teams in Sauget, Crestwood, Rockford, and Marion as well as west St. Louis. The rest of the teams are in IN, KY, MI, OH, and PA. www.frontierleague.com Another possibility would be the Northern League which has teams in Joliet, Schaumburg, and Gary. An affiliated team in the Midwest League would be great too, since Peoria, QC, Kane County along with several IA teams are in. This would be the more expensive route and would not necessarily bring a bigger fan base. The independent leagues actually seem stronger right now than the lower affiliated leagues. Go Jeff Fritzen!! Go Heartland! Bring on Normal Baseball! "

FAN SUPPORT wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:16 AM:

" I love the idea of minor league baseball in B-N, however, look at the previous "minor league" team that was here. A year ago was the last time a "minor league" team was in town. The Twin City Stars, who won the CICL baseball crown two years ago, couldn't draw enough fans to support a concession stand. This team had some of the best collegiate baseball talent from around the country on its team and on other teams from the 8 team league coming in every week and nobody came. Who's to say that anyone else will come watch a baseball game in a bigger stadium. The games for the CICL were free and B-N could only muster up a whopping dozen or so fans a game. Well, 2 to 3 real fans if you don't count family. "

Do your homework! wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:10 AM:

" Has anyone looked at this league? It's somewhere between college and the Midwest League. Jason Simontacchi of the Cardinals is one of FIVE players who've made it to the majors, none this century (and I've never heard of the others). As far as I can tell there are no major league affiliations which minor league teams need their financial support to survive. There will be no rivalry with Peoria. THEY'LL NEVER PLAY EACH OTHER! And PLEASE don't tell me a significant number of BN people regularly drive to Peoria. The Chiefs marketing people will tell you that's not the case. Unless you spent alot of time going to the old CICL games (which sent dozens of players to the majors), this is a waste of time. This league is a step above that league at best.and it's gone because there wasn't enough money or support to keep it going. Move on. "

Hey now wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:07 AM:

" Bloomington-Normal has semi-pro football team here that we barely support. And if you havent been to any of the Twin City Dawgs games you really should, they are a great time ive been to all their home games except 1, and BTW they are playing for their divison championship this saturday at ISU's football stadium at 7pm. me and my family will be there. their tickets are only $5 too, so its not expensive at all "

To well not sure wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:04 AM:

" I disagree that this should be at IWU. For this to be successful it will have to have easy access to the interstate to draw people from out of town. A north Normal location near Heartland would be idea for that. "

Chris wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:01 AM:

" I sent this idea to the Bloomington town council a year and a half ago. I think the White Sox would be a great team to have here, considering they are close to Chicago and all of their minor league teams are in the Southeast for some reason. Also, White Sox minor league stints would ALWAYS be here if they put a team here since they could take a quick interstate ride to Chicago from the rehab starts. "

T wrote on Sep 14, 2007 8:01 AM:

" Fine as long as" NO NEW TAXWS" are a part of it. I've been to the PT games. When you say there is a huge support what numer are you thinking? They only draw about 1300 to a came. How many people live here? Give me a break "

Bloomington Resident wrote on Sep 14, 2007 7:46 AM:

" A team may be privately owned, but WE will be paying for the elaborate facility in which they will play. Heartland and all its bells and whistles are paid for with our tax money. Less affordable education, more taxes out of our pockets. "

Race Track wrote on Sep 14, 2007 7:46 AM:

" Ebach had wanted to build a race track and it would have been PRIVATELY owned. So, Let's get a race track TOO!!!! "

smokin! wrote on Sep 14, 2007 7:44 AM:

" this sounds like a wonderful idea... let's add yet another money sucking venture to the twin cities... the hockey team/indoor football team have been going gang busters...losing money left and right... this is an awesome idea...go for it!!! "

GREAT IDEA wrote on Sep 14, 2007 7:32 AM:

" I think it would be a great idea. I love baseball and we have 4 colleges here and ISU and WESLEYAN have had some talented players in the past. I know some people will whine about it but they will get over it. I think it would help put the uptown in uptown Normal!! "

LittleMac wrote on Sep 14, 2007 7:29 AM:

" I'm with "Ra Ra": This is so exciting. Now we need a 'naming' contest. What will we call our team? Oh, what fun and thrills. "

More entertaining wrote on Sep 14, 2007 7:27 AM:

" I would rather see a greyhound track than either a baseball stadium or a dirt track. Nothing more cute than a pack of dogs chasing a mechanical rabbit. "

To: Just a Guy wrote on Sep 14, 2007 7:17 AM:

" Yep bring in a team in the same league. Instant rivialry. Just like what they said about hockey. If this is going to happen we need to not plan on a rivialry just put together a good program. "

WAIT wrote on Sep 14, 2007 7:15 AM:

" A college and minor league playing at the same location. Combining facilities. To Quote a certain city manger in Bloominton when asked the same thing about Redbird. "The scheduling would be difficult" Plus private money being used to upgrade what is already going to be built. For shame. To think private money can do what the fine citizens of Normal tax dollars could also do. "

Sure! wrote on Sep 14, 2007 7:11 AM:

" My family would be regulars there, we love going to baseball games and would go to more games if they were here in town. Ignore the whiners (probably the same whiners from the Judy dome stories) and bring a team to town! "

Baseball fan wrote on Sep 14, 2007 7:02 AM:

" I am in favor of having a minor league baseball team in B-N. But in order for it to succeed, it must be the same quality facility as the Peoria Chiefs play in (or better). Anything less will not have the same "ball park" atmosphere, and would not succeed. I think ISU is looking to expand their facility. Why not partner with them instead of Heartland? "

great idea! wrote on Sep 14, 2007 6:49 AM:

" The small Southern Illinois town of Marion recently built a baseball stadium that hosts a minor league baseball team. They seem to be experiencing a great deal of success with their venture. I don't know why our area could not do the same. I say go for it! "

family oriented wrote on Sep 14, 2007 6:44 AM:

" This would be GREAT for our family - yes, the Shakespeare fest gets "old" after awhile (lol). We would definitely go, but also keep in mind our expectations will be high since the Peoria Chiefs do such a great job at their stadium with crowd involvement, etc. If we do it here, it needs to be done top notch so the kids are also entertained (and we can enjoy a good game of baseball too!). The shorter drive home is really enticing ~ make it happen! GO CUBS! "

to Huh? wrote on Sep 14, 2007 6:36 AM:

" I wasn't aware that the games I attended were a failure...I would bet that the 3000 attendees per game would disagree with you "

The stix wrote on Sep 14, 2007 6:27 AM:

" This is the STIX! we didn't need US Cellular and we sure don't need a baseball team...won't happen...if it does, won't last (just like US Cellular)....oh and HELL NO on a dirt track. I said this is the stix not Kentucky. "

To: To: Big Money wrote on Sep 14, 2007 4:02 AM:

" I believe the Peoria Chiefs are mainly owned by Pete Vonachen and his son Rocky but there are about 40 other minor investors. O'Brien Automotive Group bought the naming rights to the stadium just like U.S. Cellular did to the Coliseum. "

well not sure wrote on Sep 14, 2007 3:27 AM:

" I could see Bloomington having the draw for teams (i.e., football and hockey). Not sure if Normal is trying to compete with "big" brother Bloomington again? IWU in Bloomington already has a nice baseball field that is actually less than two minutes from downtown Bloomington. Better location than North Normal (i.e.,Orlando area apartments,Northmeadow village, and section 8 housing). "

Great idea! wrote on Sep 14, 2007 3:13 AM:

" I like the idea. However, I don't want another publicly owned and operated sports facility. If private investors can be recruited to build a stadium and own the team, I am supportive. This would be a great summer afternoon or evening activity for the entire family. "

sarge wrote on Sep 14, 2007 1:50 AM:

" i need 2 season tickets now iwanta go i know this will be a money maker when can i get my name in went to 22 chiefs game but would like to watch the games here in fact can i invest in this venture "

I am in favor wrote on Sep 13, 2007 11:50 PM:

" Lets see privately owned, helps out the community by building a better facilty for Heartland. We already host the Softball tournys and they do well. I say why not? I would go to a game. Why drive to Peoria when I can enjoy a game here. I support the thunder and the extreme. I even attended the storm before that. This community needs more like this. Hey want a race track put it on the north side or west side. If its privately owned then I am in favor. Should not be the burden of the taxpayers to pay for it all though. "

JJ wrote on Sep 13, 2007 11:43 PM:

" The Prairie Thunder and the Extreme are doing just fine revenue wise. They are both drawing huge crowds its just the coliseum that cant make any money during their off seasons. baseball would succeed just the same as hockey or indoor football. it would be well supported and i know heartland would come a knocking. "

Where wrote on Sep 13, 2007 11:20 PM:

" do I send a deposit check for season tickets? Watching the Peoria Chiefs in O'Brien Field is great, but I don't really like the drive there. Minor League Baseball in B-N? SIGN ME UP!!! "

How about a race track wrote on Sep 13, 2007 10:57 PM:

" WE WANT A DIRT RACE TRACK. "

To: Don't think so wrote on Sep 13, 2007 10:52 PM:

" Good job- you have fulfilled a general posting requirement of having no idea what you are talking about, but being darn sure you are correct. An added plus is that you are apparently an out-of-towner who doesn't know what you are talking about. "

To: Good Idea wrote on Sep 13, 2007 10:49 PM:

" I guess if you went to any football and hockey games you'd realize you have no idea what you are talking about. "

Season Tickets... wrote on Sep 13, 2007 10:43 PM:

" Whats the price...And if they start making money will the big thing downtown take some pointers? "

Spooky wrote on Sep 13, 2007 10:28 PM:

" That RA-RA is a fun guy. No one has a nicer lawn "

JD wrote on Sep 13, 2007 10:26 PM:

" The town is attempting to over reach it's status yet again. When are people in B-N going to realize that it is not a city, and quit trying to act like one. I can assure everyone that a venture like this would result in costing the tax payers alot of money, and the end result would be like all the rest of the time the town over reached itself. "

Todd the Bod wrote on Sep 13, 2007 10:21 PM:

" To: It's about time... Where in the article does it say we won't foot the bill for the stadium? Heartland is paying for part of it (that's the same as us paying for it). It isn't clear where the rest of the funding will come from. The only thing that is "privately owned" is the league/team, not the stadium. "

It's about time wrote on Sep 13, 2007 9:32 PM:

" Hey folks, read the story. PRIVATELY OWNED, it says. Normal doesn't build the stadium. Normal doesn't own the team. This is a great baseball town. if we can support hockey and indoor football, baseball is a great idea. What else are families around here doing on summer evenings, going to the Shakespeare Festival? If all those little towns in the Midwest League can support a baseball team, we will too. Families love going to minor league games. Count me in. "

Interesting wrote on Sep 13, 2007 9:31 PM:

" I think it would be a good idea, especially if we can get some good local talent on the team. I would love to go to minor league games over the summer, cubs/cards/sox, doesn't matter to me who they are affiliated with, and teaming with heartland makes it all the better. "

Just A Guy wrote on Sep 13, 2007 9:30 PM:

" Bring in a Single A team, get the St. Louis Cardinals to be the parent organization, and you have an instant rivalry that will bring fans from both towns to the ball park. Cubs vs Cards, Peoria vs Bloomington-Normal. If the seasons overlapped, have a double header: ISU vs Bradley followed by Chiefs vs B-N. "

COB wrote on Sep 13, 2007 9:29 PM:

" What would have made a great multi-entertainment facility would have been to locate the Coliseum, a new baseball park, an oval dirt racetrack, and whatever else would fit in, out surrounding the Interstate Center. NIMBYs on the west side of Normal poopooed the racetrack because of potential noise, which would have been drowned out by the 80,000 semis going by daily on the elevated (read earthen noise barrier) I-55/74. One huge shared parking lot would have been able to serve all venues. Private commercial development would have flocked to surround the complex, unlike the current dribs and drabs. I guess having easy access from Rte 9 and I-55/74 would have made too much sense too. "

#### wrote on Sep 13, 2007 9:26 PM:

" What about a minor league collgiate team? There are some pretty successful college players out there that put on a good show. It is just like going to a Chief's game only you might actually get to see some of your favorite high school players as they have succeeded in college. We love going to Chiefs games but it is such a long drive home. "

Spooky wrote on Sep 13, 2007 9:07 PM:

" Apparently the comments regarding the Extreme and Thunder as failures are made by anti-coliseum folks. Both teams are very successful. The coliseum has some issues but not due to the sports venues. Baseball? LOVE the idea. You have my vote Normal! "

RA RA wrote on Sep 13, 2007 8:52 PM:

" Yay sports! I hope they bring a minor league team here! If anything would make my life more complete, this is it! I can't wait to cheer as loud as I can! Build a stadium, too. Nothing beautifies a city like more sports venues with giant size logos! Go Team Go!!! "

Jimmy the Greek wrote on Sep 13, 2007 8:26 PM:

" Heartland is going to build a baseball field. It stands to reason that it would like to have a nice stadium. Excepting "donations" from an investment group would be fine. Heartland needs to have total control of its venues and resources. Making a deal to allow a minor league to use or lease the field at a minimal cost if donations covered the upgrades would be great for the college and the city of Normal. To release control or rights to a stadium while excepting the expense of running and maintaining the facility would not be wise. "

COB wrote on Sep 13, 2007 8:23 PM:

" Doesn't the Peoria Chiefs have the final say so on allowing any minor league baseball team within 45 miles of its stadium? IIRC, that is what killed the proposal from a few years ago. "

Effingham Reader wrote on Sep 13, 2007 8:20 PM:

" Wouldn't it be great....they could play in the Judy Dome. "

Good Idea wrote on Sep 13, 2007 8:13 PM:

" I think it's a good idea in theory, but I'm not sure if it would go over too well. I would go to games, but who knows if anyone else would. It'd probably end up like the Extreme games where half of the stadium is empty. "

???? wrote on Sep 13, 2007 8:09 PM:

" I am not a fan of hockey or football but whoever said that our local teams are failures are just plain WRONG! from what I have heard both the Extreme, and the prairie Thunder do very well as far as revenue compared to other teams in the same league "

don't think so... wrote on Sep 13, 2007 8:06 PM:

" This probably wouldn't be a good idea. B-N can't even support a football or a hockey team. What makes you think you can support a baseball team. "

To Big Money wrote on Sep 13, 2007 8:01 PM:

" I am not for sure but I think that the O'Brien Field in Peoria is not the same one that supports the Arena football. The O'Brien Mitsubishi and the Peoria Chiefs are the same owner but the other is not. May be that I am wrong and if so someone please correct me. Thanks. I think minor League baseball is a good idea and hooking up with Heartland makes it better- NO PUBLIC MONEY. "

Bring it wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:57 PM:

" And who cares what team it is.....baseball is baseball. Please bring Minor League baseball to B/N. "

Cavewoman wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:56 PM:

" Please don't make us poor taxpayers fund a stadium!!! If it's such a great idea, a private firm can foot the bill. Oh, and if we bring baseball to this community, there's more business (sports fans) taken away from our white elephant...I mean coliseum business. We can't win. "

To: JULIE wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:46 PM:

" What does your post have to do with baseball coming to Btown? "

Minor League? wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:43 PM:

" There seems to be a lot of question marks to be answered before anyone would be willing to commit. Answers are required! The only thing that it seems this community supports is beer drinking at theaters and losing money on the Judy Dome......Play Ball!? "

Just not a cubs farm team.... wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:34 PM:

" We have enough losers in this town already. "

Julie wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:25 PM:

" I am (considered by my friends to be) an attractive 40 year old blonde girl that dates only young black males. I think I would feel more comfortable going to Peoria to enjoy minor league baseball. "

About time!!!! wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:22 PM:

" I would love to see minor league ball come here, I think it would be a great idea! "

Ryno wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:16 PM:

" That would be awesome!!!! This town needs more stuff like this!!! "

that would be awesome wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:15 PM:

" I would love a team in town and would definitely support it. "

Nova wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:15 PM:

" I would be all for it. The players are there to play and the fans are true fans. I love watching the Hooks out of CC play. "

Huh???? wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:09 PM:

" Haven't the folks in B/N learned enough already from the failure of minor league hockey in their community??? You don't have the market for it, plain & simple. "

Big Money wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:07 PM:

" Who owns the stadium where the Peoria Chiefs play? Who has a practically built a monopoly of car dealerships in Bloomington? Who had the final say on the name of the Bloomington arena football team? Do you think this person would want to lose the BN crowd that travels to Peoria for Chiefs games? Money talks! "

First to say wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:05 PM:

" Absolutely we should have a minor league team. Baseball would be more welcomed than hockey or indoor football round these parts. Even better if they were a Cubs farm team! "

This wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:04 PM:

" sounds like recent history, substitute "arena" for "baseball team" and it sounds too familiar. Good luck, Normal. "

Me wrote on Sep 13, 2007 7:00 PM:

" I would like to see this happen but I don't think it is a good idea. I see this turning into another Prairie Thunder kind of a thing. It would be cool for a while but in the end people won't keep coming. If they can collaberate with Heartland I think it may work but don't build another stadium for this. "

Great, But!!!! wrote on Sep 13, 2007 6:57 PM:

" This would be great, however, no public money should be used. I wonder how many stadiums built in the last 50 years have been built with no public money. "

good idea wrote on Sep 13, 2007 6:54 PM:

" that would be a great idea to bring a team to bloomington normal. I hate having to go to peoria in that area not fun to park in. that would be nice to have a team to cheer for here at home. expecially if it was a minor leage affiliate of the cardinals. "

reader wrote on Sep 13, 2007 6:53 PM:

" What so in a few years it can go the way of the corvette show and air show.I think we should think a little smaller. "

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