From a N.O. resident and Saints fan

[tgrgrd00]

Don't bash on us. Tagliabue is furiously working behind the scenes to move the team to LA. We're just throwing our hats into the ring.

It's a tough go, but ultimately, it's a business. I've heard estimates of post-Katrina New Orleans having a population of 250,000. The team was originally awarded in 1967 to New Orleans. The previous census (1960) had placed them at 640,000 population. The 2000 census had them at 490,000. That's obviously not growth. The Saints were having a tough go of fielding a competitive team with their existing revenue streams, which is why they negotiated the state subsidy. I don't believe they could survive without it, and that money could be put to MUCH better uses by the state in terms of rebuilding. Louisiana and New Orleans worrying about what the Saints are doing strikes me somewhat like a cancer patient worrying about a zit: there should be higher priorities.

Your numbers are scewed...the city of N.O. has had a population decrease since 1960...but you left out the part about the suburban areas growing at at least a greater rate than the city itself. You don't have to live in the city on N.O. to go to a Saints game. People all over the Gulf coast go to the Saints games. Why don't you tell us what the census says about these areas and there population trends? What does that say about being able to sustain a football team?

How can you question our ability to sustain a team regarding revenue streams? Nobody knows how much the Saints make except for Benson. Do you have some kind of special pass to look at his books? He will not divulge his accounting information to anyone. That is how we got in to the postition of using tax payer money to subsidies the team.

[tgrgrd00]

The Saints were a boarderline NFL-caliber town before Katrina.

The reality is it will be years, if ever, before they become one again.

Oh and I guess S.A. is considered a Super market caliber town all of a sudden. That is why they have to try and steal a team from a city that was just hit with a natural disaster.

[Shiner Bock Girl]

Oh and I guess S.A. is considered a Super market caliber town all of a sudden. That is why they have to try and steal a team from a city that was just hit with a natural disaster.

Maybe you should read the newest article today. You could learn from Horn's comments....And maybe you ppl need to straighten out LSU, looks like they hurt you more then we did saying they don't want the Saints there....

http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/me...n.1835860c.html

[tgrgrd00]

tgrgrd00 you are a complete idiot, do you really think the City of New Orleans any time soon can financially supporrt NFL football ENTERTAINMENT? The City and its economy are a complete 180 degrees from what it was pre-Katrina. People are BARELY creeping back to their home which most of them are going to be bull dozed, do you really think the shitty assed already old and now old and heavily damaged Superdome by Katrina can get fully packed with fans every home game? Let alone, afford 10 dollar beers, 5 dollar Sodas, 6 dollar hot dogs, and 20 dollar parking??? given that people can barely afford to buy a loaf of bread and a gallon of gas? Wake up boy, your Saints are marching out west to SA. Bye the way...(they're already here)



I think the city will be able to support this team. Not this season...but next season we willl be able to support this team. I live here and I see what is happening. We have traffic worse than it was before Katrina, hotels are coming back to business, there are more jobs available than every before.

We had 92,400 people at the LSU game last weekend...many of them from N.O.

The Saints may be marching to S.A. but only because they are being looted from the city.

[Marcus Bryant]

Oh and I guess S.A. is considered a Super market caliber town all of a sudden. That is why they have to try and steal a team from a city that was just hit with a natural disaster.


SA was a better NFL market than NO before Katrina. The primary reason SA hasn't ended up with a team has been because a Cowboys' game is the highest rated program in SA anytime one is on.

Look, I hope NO keeps a NFL franchise. I'd just like to see one in SA as well.

[tgrgrd00]

Maybe you should read the newest article today. You could learn from Horn's comments....And maybe you ppl need to straighten out LSU, looks like they hurt you more then we did saying they don't want the Saints there....

http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/me...n.1835860c.html


LSU has legitimate concerns about the Saints playing in their stadium. I named some of them earlier in the thread.

Besides LSU and the Saints have always been competitors in the past and Benson certainly hasn't done anything to help LSU before. The Superdome is where the Saints play and when the Superdome is ready the Saints should be back in it.

Joe horn looks like he is a little 2 faced. He has always talked about how much he loves N.O. I would be skeptical of anything the players say really. If the guy who signs their paychecks says Joe Horn likes S.A. then Joe Horn likes S.A.

[tgrgrd00]

SA was a better NFL market than NO before Katrina. The primary reason SA hasn't ended up with a team has been because a Cowboys' game is the highest rated program in SA anytime one is on.

Look, I hope NO keeps a NFL franchise. I'd just like to see one in SA as well.

Hey I agree completely.....I hope San Antonio gets 2 or 3 franchises for all I care. Just not our Saints franchise.

[Shiner Bock Girl]

What? Show me one quote where the mayor of B.R. has said anything of the sort. You are assuming that BR hates the Saints? Where do you get that from? I know plenty of people in BR that love the Saints. Don't assume.

As a matter of fact the mayor of BR has zero say in who plays at LSU and who doesn't. The atheletic director and board of supervisors at LSU decides what happens at Tiger Stadium. LSU owns Tiger Stadium (not BR) and they are trying to work on a deal to play all the Saints games there next season. There are slight problems with concession workers, police/crowd control, ticketing, etc that have hindered the process.

Your comments are way off base and completely incorrect. Stop assuming to make yourself feel better.

I couldn't be too way off with the comments LSU has been making, but here you sound like they love them.




LSU has legitimate concerns about the Saints playing in their stadium. I named some of them earlier in the thread.

Besides LSU and the Saints have always been competitors in the past and Benson certainly hasn't done anything to help LSU before. The Superdome is where the Saints play and when the Superdome is ready the Saints should be back in it.

Joe horn looks like he is a little 2 faced. He has always talked about how much he loves N.O. I would be skeptical of anything the players say really. If the guy who signs their paychecks says Joe Horn likes S.A. then Joe Horn likes S.A.

Now here your talking like they don't like them...Which is it??? And of course Horn Loves NO, you never hate your home....But he's just tired of NOLA claiming they own them and these players obviously had enough...He didn't have to speak out, he was getting a pay check whether he spoke out or not...

[Ishta]

Maybe you should read the newest article today. You could learn from Horn's comments....And maybe you ppl need to straighten out LSU, looks like they hurt you more then we did saying they don't want the Saints there....

http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/me...n.1835860c.html
The link didn't work..What was the name of the story?

[Shiner Bock Girl]

Hey I agree completely.....I hope San Antonio gets 2 or 3 franchises for all I care. Just not our Saints franchise.

I would rather start fresh also...New Name and logo....

[Shiner Bock Girl]

The link didn't work..What was the name of the story?

Nagin blasts Saints owner for trying to move team
Associated Press

NEW ORLEANS -- Mayor Ray Nagin disparaged Saints owner Tom Benson on Wednesday for working with San Antonio officials to permanently keep the NFL team in Texas.

The mayor's comments came after the departures of two top Saints executives who were supportive of keeping the Saints in Louisiana. Nagin is concerned that San Antonio officials said publicly that Benson is working with them to relocate the franchise to Texas.

"We want our Saints, we may not want the owner back," Nagin said while attending the reopening of Cafe Du Monde in the French Quarter.

"I'm ready to go to the NFL and to [commissioner Paul] Tagliabue and say, 'Give us the Cleveland plan,'" Nagin added, referring to the league awarding Cleveland an expansion team almost immediately after the Browns moved to Baltimore after the 1995 season. "Whatever the Saints want to do, you let them leave, but they can't take our logo, they can't take our name, and you give us a promise to give us a franchise when this city's back."

A Saints spokesman did not return a telephone call and e-mail seeking a response to Nagin's comments.

"For them to be openly talking to other cities about moving is disrespectful to the citizens of New Orleans, disrespectful to the Saints fans who have hung in with this franchise through 30-something years under very trying times," Nagin said.

The Saints joined the NFL in 1967. In 1986, Benson was part of an ownership group that bought the team to ensure it would stay in Louisiana. Benson eventually bought out other members of the group.

During Benson's ownership, the state of Louisiana has built him a new headquarters, including spending $6.75 million for an indoor practice field in 2003. The state also has paid for repeated improvements to the Louisiana Superdome at Benson's insistence during the past two decades.

On Monday night, Benson fired Arnold Fielkow, the team's top business executive since 2000. Fielkow had overseen a 36-game sellout streak at the Superdome and negotiated an unprecedented stadium lease that called for the state to pay Benson $187 million in direct subsidies over 10 years.

But Fielkow has said he believed the Saints needed to be leaders in New Orleans' rebuilding process after Hurricane Katrina and repeatedly praised Saints fans in Louisiana as the best and most loyal in the NFL. Fielkow has since said that stance led to his dismissal.

On Tuesday, Conrad Kowal, senior director of marketing and business development, also resigned.

Nagin called Benson's recent actions a "doggone shame."

link


Seems like Nagin sees the writing on the wall but has to say the politically correct things.

[samikeyp]

The Saints may be marching to S.A. but only because they are being looted from the city.

You can't have stolen from you something you never owned.

[samikeyp]

A report in the LSU student newspaper would seem to support Horn's claim about Baton Rouge.

According to the Reveille, LSU chancellor Sean O'Keefe expressed at a faculty senate meeting last week his displeasure about the NFL's decision to schedule games at Tiger Stadium.

"We'd rather not have the games here at all," O'Keefe was quoted as saying by the Reveille. "This is going to be a real problem, and we are not excited about the prospect."

O'Keefe called the staging of the games a "huge logistical nightmare" and said "it will not be a windfall for the university."

[Ishta]

Nagin blasts Saints owner for trying to move team
Associated Press

NEW ORLEANS -- Mayor Ray Nagin disparaged Saints owner Tom Benson on Wednesday for working with San Antonio officials to permanently keep the NFL team in Texas.

The mayor's comments came after the departures of two top Saints executives who were supportive of keeping the Saints in Louisiana. Nagin is concerned that San Antonio officials said publicly that Benson is working with them to relocate the franchise to Texas.

"We want our Saints, we may not want the owner back," Nagin said while attending the reopening of Cafe Du Monde in the French Quarter.

"I'm ready to go to the NFL and to [commissioner Paul] Tagliabue and say, 'Give us the Cleveland plan,'" Nagin added, referring to the league awarding Cleveland an expansion team almost immediately after the Browns moved to Baltimore after the 1995 season. "Whatever the Saints want to do, you let them leave, but they can't take our logo, they can't take our name, and you give us a promise to give us a franchise when this city's back."

A Saints spokesman did not return a telephone call and e-mail seeking a response to Nagin's comments.

"For them to be openly talking to other cities about moving is disrespectful to the citizens of New Orleans, disrespectful to the Saints fans who have hung in with this franchise through 30-something years under very trying times," Nagin said.

The Saints joined the NFL in 1967. In 1986, Benson was part of an ownership group that bought the team to ensure it would stay in Louisiana. Benson eventually bought out other members of the group.

During Benson's ownership, the state of Louisiana has built him a new headquarters, including spending $6.75 million for an indoor practice field in 2003. The state also has paid for repeated improvements to the Louisiana Superdome at Benson's insistence during the past two decades.

On Monday night, Benson fired Arnold Fielkow, the team's top business executive since 2000. Fielkow had overseen a 36-game sellout streak at the Superdome and negotiated an unprecedented stadium lease that called for the state to pay Benson $187 million in direct subsidies over 10 years.

But Fielkow has said he believed the Saints needed to be leaders in New Orleans' rebuilding process after Hurricane Katrina and repeatedly praised Saints fans in Louisiana as the best and most loyal in the NFL. Fielkow has since said that stance led to his dismissal.

On Tuesday, Conrad Kowal, senior director of marketing and business development, also resigned.

Nagin called Benson's recent actions a "doggone shame."

link


Seems like Nagin sees the writing on the wall but has to say the politically correct things.Thanks :spin I think the Saints will be here at least next year and after that.....Who knows. San Antonio would welcome them here with open arms as we have already shown.

[Shiner Bock Girl]

You can't have stolen from you something you never owned.

Exactly, they also had how many years to actually buy the team?

[samikeyp]

True. I get tgr's anger but its misdirected. You can't blame the fans in SA who go to these games and cheer their heads off. You can't come into a SA-based message board, trash the city, and expect everyone to be sympathetic and agree with you. I get you are pissed. I would be too if the situations were reversed, but to ignore the fact that steps like this were in place well before the storm hit is wrong and to ignore the possibility that Benson intitiated these talks and SA is just responding is wrong also. What was Hardberger supposed to do? "No thanks Tom, we don't want a team here". If the situation were reversed, the city gov. of NO would be doing the exact same thing.

[tgrgrd00]

You can't have stolen from you something you never owned.

From wikipedia.org:

The NFL awarded the city of New Orleans an NFL franchise on 1 November 1966.

Awarded: v: Give; Bestow; Grant

[samikeyp]

The Saints joined the NFL in 1967. In 1986, Benson was part of an ownership group that bought the team to ensure it would stay in Louisiana. Benson eventually bought out other members of the group.


own
Of or belonging to oneself or itself: She makes her own clothes.

n.
That which belongs to one: I wanted a room of my own.

v. owned, own·ing, owns
v. tr.

To have or possess as property;To have control over:

[tgrgrd00]

True. I get tgr's anger but its misdirected. You can't blame the fans in SA who go to these games and cheer their heads off. You can't come into a SA-based message board, trash the city, and expect everyone to be sympathetic and agree with you. I get you are pissed. I would be too if the situations were reversed, but to ignore the fact that steps like this were in place well before the storm hit is wrong and to ignore the possibility that Benson intitiated these talks and SA is just responding is wrong also. What was Hardberger supposed to do? "No thanks Tom, we don't want a team here". If the situation were reversed, the city gov. of NO would be doing the exact same thing.

I never trashed the city of S.A. and I don't expect anyone to agree with me or sympathize with me. I think S.A. is a great city and the people are probably some of the best in the country after the way they helped out immediately after the storm. Unfortunately that immediate help has turned in to a hinderance 2 months later.

I beleive that steps were in place before Katrina to keep the team in N.O. Just read a few pages back in this thread and see the stadium plans and deals that are/were in the works.

I don't know what Hardberger was supposed to do...he could say lets wait till the end of the season at least...or lets wait till N.O. can come up with their offer after they recover from the storm. But that would be asking probably a little too much because then the chances of getting the franchise would be less possible.

[tgrgrd00]

The Saints joined the NFL in 1967. In 1986, Benson was part of an ownership group that bought the team to ensure it would stay in Louisiana. Benson eventually bought out other members of the group.

You forgot to bold the part about they allowed them to purchase the team with the agreement to ensure the Saints would stay in Louisiana.

That is the only way this group was allowed to purchase the team...they had to stay in LA because the franchise was awarded to N.O.

[Marcus Bryant]

Local governments do not own NFL franchises. Fairly basic. A franchise can be awarded to a certain locale, but ownership is whatever entity or individuals who put up the jack to buy and operate the team. In addition that ownership can move the team, if they are so allowed.

[samikeyp]

The Saints joined the NFL in 1967. In 1986, Benson was part of an ownership group that bought the team to ensure it would stay in Louisiana. Benson eventually bought out other members of the group.

You ignored the bolded part about buying out the other members of the group. That group was desgined to keep the team in NO. The group is now gone, Benson is the sole owner and can do what he feels is best for the franchise.

[Marcus Bryant]

Let's be honest here. The league cannot/won't stop Benson from moving his team. If he doesn't win out among the owners he'll win in court.

What is likely going to happen is that Benson does as he wants with the team and the NFL puts another franchise in New Orleans. I think the league doesn't have a choice. They could turn an awful PR situation into a major plus if the league is seen as sticking with the city and trying to help its redevelopment.

Also, it's not like a NFL franchise is a hard thing to sell nowadays. The league could command a fairly hefty price for a new franchise. In addition, the state of Louisiana has shown it's willing to step in and subsidize a team in New Orleans. The state could come up with a plan for a new development featuring a state of the art stadium facility as well as hotels and what not else. So the NFL doesn't abandon New Orleans, SA lands a NFL franchise (fuck yeah), avoids the 'stealing/looting' moniker nonsense and everyone's happy.

Perhaps I'm off, but that's how I'm reading the situation.

[tgrgrd00]

Local governments do not own NFL franchises. Fairly basic. A franchise can be awarded to a certain locale, but ownership is whatever entity or individuals who put up the jack to buy and operate the team. In addition that ownership can move the team, if they are so allowed.

Less Green Bay.

[samikeyp]

Less Green Bay.

very true. I am surprised more cities haven't done that.

[tgrgrd00]

Let's be honest here. The league cannot/won't stop Benson from moving his team. If he doesn't win out among the owners he'll win in court.

What is likely going to happen is that Benson does as he wants with the team and the NFL puts another franchise in New Orleans. I think the league doesn't have a choice. They could turn an awful PR situation into a major plus if the league is seen as sticking with the city and trying to help its redevelopment.

Also, it's not like a NFL franchise is a hard thing to sell nowadays. The league could command a fairly hefty price for a new franchise. In addition, the state of Louisiana has shown it's willing to step in and subsidize a team in New Orleans. The state could come up with a plan for a new development featuring a state of the art stadium facility as well as hotels and what not else. So the NFL doesn't abandon New Orleans, SA lands a NFL franchise (fuck yeah), avoids the 'stealing/looting' moniker nonsense and everyone's happy.

Perhaps I'm off, but that's how I'm reading the situation.

That seems reasonable. However the NFL has stated they are not awarding any expansion teams for at least 10 years I think...and the next one goes to LA.

This is where the fight from N.O. is coming in. We were awarded this franchise and team. The owner(s) when the team was purchased agreed to keep the franchise in N.O. as it was awarded. Benson was part of the ownership group that agreed to keep the team in N.O. I don't care if it was a group or a sole owner, the agreement was to keep the team here. Benson was part of the group that agreed to keep the team here. If he wanted to move the team he should have never made the agreement. Benson is a crook and a liar and an evil man.

Just wait till he starts saying he isn't making any money in S.A. and you ask him to see his books and prove it. He will not divulge any information. He will say I need more money or I am moving because I am not making any money. You will ask him to prove it and he will tell you to blow it out your ass.

Frankly you can have Benson and his used car salesman mentality. Instead of helping a city in need that has supported him for years he is hurting us. Frankly his ass isn't welcome here anymore because his true colors are showing. But we know we will be left out in the cold by the NFL for years and will never get another team. All because of a freaking storm. We have lost soooo much and now we are going to lose our football team. It is just sad that anyone would want to take advantage of the situation.

[tgrgrd00]

very true. I am surprised more cities haven't done that.

I thought the league made some moves to prevent this from being possible anymore....though I may be wrong.

[Marcus Bryant]

No, the Packers' ownership is a corporate structure with fans and various institutions in Green Bay as shareholders. The city government does not own the franchise. The ownership structure, however, obviously helps to keep the team in Green Bay.

[Marcus Bryant]

That seems reasonable. However the NFL has stated they are not awarding any expansion teams for at least 10 years I think...and the next one goes to LA.

This is where the fight from N.O. is coming in. We were awarded this franchise and team. The owner(s) when the team was purchased agreed to keep the franchise in N.O. as it was awarded. Benson was part of the ownership group that agreed to keep the team in N.O. I don't care if it was a group or a sole owner, the agreement was to keep the team here. Benson was part of the group that agreed to keep the team here. If he wanted to move the team he should have never made the agreement. Benson is a crook and a liar and an evil man.


What contract is there that says he must keep the franchise in the city?




Just wait till he starts saying he isn't making any money in S.A. and you ask him to see his books and prove it. He will not divulge any information. He will say I need more money or I am moving because I am not making any money. You will ask him to prove it and he will tell you to blow it out your ass.


Oh, no doubt. The Alamodome will probably last about 5 years as the home for the Saints. I'm sure the calls for a new facility will start in a year or two. The major argument for a new football stadium in SA will be that the Alamodome doesn't have enough luxury suites and box seating. But it'll be fairly obvious if the Saints are selling out all of the suites or not.

Given the effort it takes to get a public facility of any note financed, it's going to be a knock down drag out fight when the Saints start looking for a new facility. At least SA has something decent that will last for a little while.



Frankly you can have Benson and his used car salesman mentality. Instead of helping a city in need that has supported him for years he is hurting us. Frankly his ass isn't welcome here anymore because his true colors are showing. But we know we will be left out in the cold by the NFL for years and will never get another team. All because of a freaking storm. We have lost soooo much and now we are going to lose our football team. It is just sad that anyone would want to take advantage of the situation.

The flip side is that Benson helped to keep the Saints in NO back in the day and probably much longer than the market warranted.

[Shiner Bock Girl]

I thought the league made some moves to prevent this from being possible anymore....though I may be wrong.

Iam curious about something...I can understand why Benson wants a new stadium in NOLA now, but why was he threatening them for years to build a new one...I mean the superdome was pretty nice already and he wanted a new one???

[tgrgrd00]

What contract is there that says he must keep the franchise in the city?

We have a contract with Benson through 2010 right now with another contract ready to go including new stadium and all through 2030.

Benson has a $80 million buyout clause if he wants to leave after this season.






Oh, no doubt. The Alamodome will probably last about 5 years as the home for the Saints. I'm sure the calls for a new facility will start in a year or two. The major argument for a new football stadium in SA will be that the Alamodome doesn't have enough luxury suites and box seating. But it'll be fairly obvious if the Saints are selling out all of the suites or not.

Given the effort it takes to get a public facility of any note financed, it's going to be a knock down drag out fight when the Saints start looking for a new facility. At least SA has something decent that will last for a little while.

Hmmm this sounds familiar...

If you think the Alamodome is an better than the Superdome (minus the roof damage) then you are crazy. Are you saying the Superdome isn't decent but the Alamo dome is?




The flip side is that Benson helped to keep the Saints in NO back in the day and probably much longer than the market warranted.

Whatever, I keep hearing this shit from people in S.A. and I am tired of it. The N.O. market has supported the Saints just fine over the last 38 years. Nobody can show me any proof that justifies the Saints moving to S.A. because of the market.

[tgrgrd00]

Iam curious about something...I can understand why Benson wants a new stadium in NOLA now, but why was he threatening them for years to build a new one...I mean the superdome was pretty nice already and he wanted a new one???

Because he is a greedy little man.

Because he wants more suites and he is jealous of all the "newer" stadiums around the league.

Because the stadium is good enough to host more Superbowls than any other stadium ever but not good enough for his crappy performing teams to play in.

[Marcus Bryant]

We have a contract with Benson through 2010 right now with another contract ready to go including new stadium and all through 2030.

That first contract has a force majeure clause which allows the ownership to terminate the lease.

As for the other contract, if it isn't signed, don't whine.




Benson has a $80 million buyout clause if he wants to leave after this season.

Not if the contract is terminated using the aforementioned clause.




Hmmm this sounds familiar...

If you think the Alamodome is an better than the Superdome (minus the roof damage) then you are crazy. Are you saying the Superdome isn't decent but the Alamo dome is?

First off, I am saying that the Alamodome is a suitable facility for a NFL team over the next 5 seasons.

Secondly, a Superdome with its roof blown off, and with water and waste and shit all over it is probably not an appealing facility right now for a NFL franchise.




Whatever, I keep hearing this shit from people in S.A. and I am tired of it. The N.O. market has supported the Saints just fine over the last 38 years. Nobody can show me any proof that justifies the Saints moving to S.A. because of the market.

Larger population, higher incomes, significantly large and steady growth, corporate base, huge federal govt presence, high demonstrated NFL ratings, etc..

I mean, it's fairly funny listening to folks from South Louisiana disparage San Antonio. It's obvious they have never been out of their swamp.

[Shiner Bock Girl]

Because he is a greedy little man.

Because he wants more suites and he is jealous of all the "newer" stadiums around the league.

Because the stadium is good enough to host more Superbowls than any other stadium ever but not good enough for his crappy performing teams to play in.

OUCH!!!!!, And he's going to be happy in the ALAMODOME???

[Shiner Bock Girl]

Who knows, maybe investors like they did for the spurs will pitch in for a new stadium...Lots of rich NFL lovers here in SA....I just have a feeling if Benson does bring the Saints here, i bet one of the conditions will be for a new stadium in a few years....It will be interesting.

[Marcus Bryant]

I've perused some Saints forums and it seems like the resident homers believe that attractive NFL markets are determined on the basis of whether or not the city's distinctive features are most well-known, as in the French Quarter and Jazz versus The Alamo and River Walk.

[ChumpDumper]

Because he is a greedy little man.

Because he wants more suites and he is jealous of all the "newer" stadiums around the league.

Because the stadium is good enough to host more Superbowls than any other stadium ever but not good enough for his crappy performing teams to play in.So he's going to LA right?

[Ishta]

So he's going to LA right?

:lol :lol

[tgrgrd00]

Larger population, higher incomes, significantly large and steady growth, corporate base, huge federal govt presence, high demonstrated NFL ratings, etc..

I mean, it's fairly funny listening to folks from South Louisiana disparage San Antonio. It's obvious they have never been out of their swamp.

I never said San Antonio can't support an NFL team. I said you can't justify a move because of the lack of market in N.O.

You must understand nobody is disparaging your city....you have a fine city with many great qualities. The problem is with your politicians and the timing of thier ploys.

I have been out of my swamp many times and been to many places. I keep coming back because I love my swamp and everything about it.

[Gatita]

You are stealing our wife you fuck!!!!!!!

And that my friends is when someone becomes a FANatic!

Your Nucking Futs!!

[mcdunk]

I never said San Antonio can't support an NFL team. I said you can't justify a move because of the lack of market in N.O.

You must understand nobody is disparaging your city....you have a fine city with many great qualities. The problem is with your politicians and the timing of thier ploys.

I have been out of my swamp many times and been to many places. I keep coming back because I love my swamp and everything about it.
How about the owner wants to move end of story, hows that for justification?

[ChumpDumper]

I said you can't justify a move because of the lack of market in N.O.Well, seeing as how the state had to pony up $186 million in direct payments to make the team profitable with a full population, tax base and business presence -- it would be fair to say that someone will have to pay alot more to keep them in NOLA.

In light of all the money that needs to be spent on rebuilding -- how much should be paid to keep the Saints in NOLA and who should pay it?

If you really attempt to answer those questions, things become much more clear.

[Marcus Bryant]

You are stealing our wife you fuck!!!!!!!

Well, she said you two are getting a divorce.

[j-6]

I have been reading saintsreport.com on and off today, and I am in awe of the organized efforts these guys are putting forth. A bunch of slapdicks off the internets renting an airplane and banner to fly over Tiger Stadium? Calling local radio shows in other markets to raise awareness? Writing letters to the NFL NOLA committee and the Commish en masse? Getting on local TV stations and aiming for MSNBC/FOX/CNN? Drudge Report coverage? Sports Reporters coverage?

For the last minute "laissez-faire" capital of the hemisphere, I'm awed by this. I figured it would be more like, "Benson fucked us, let's move on" for our brethren in the Bayou, but they are putting up a hell of a fight. I wonder if the shoe was on the other foot if we'd be such a force.

[TheWriter]

I've seen more done for Star Trek shows about to get canceled and still do get canceled.

All this will mean nothing when it comes done to brass taxes.

[samikeyp]

brass tacks, maybe? :p

[j-6]

I've seen more done for Star Trek shows about to get canceled and still do get canceled.

All this will mean nothing when it comes done to brass taxes.

How about showing a little love for some people on the verge of losing yet another part of their city when they've lost so much already? Or is that too much to ask, Councilman?

For someone so into civic pride, you sure have a hard time seeing it elsewhere.

[TheWriter]

How about showing a little love for some people on the verge of losing yet another part of their city when they've lost so much already? Or is that too much to ask, Councilman?

For someone so into civic pride, you sure have a hard time seeing it elsewhere.

I ain't showing no one over there any love after the crap they gave me.

I feel for the city. I feel for the people who lost there homes, their jobs, their lives as they knew them.

I don't feel for the idiots at SaintsReport.com

[ChumpDumper]

I personally would view the disaster as an opportunity to start things over (not just NFL-wise, but we'll limit the discussion to that) with a largely clean slate. Getting out from under a $180 million bribe to an NFL owner you don't like is a good enough start.

I would do what Nagin started with trying to get a Browns-type deal out of the NFL, but privately at first, getting a few guaranteed Super Bowls (hell, ask for a decade of them) in the process while waiting for the next move or round of expansions. By that time, you would have a really good idea whether NOLA could truly support an NFL team without a yearly $20 million bribe to any owner that might come around.

[dknights411]

I don't feel for the idiots at SaintsReport.com

I can't say that I don't feel for them, but it seems like ALL of them are currently out of touch with reality. If attendence at BR is really low, some of them might commit suicide.

There's a fine line between being a fan and being fanatical.

[Shiner Bock Girl]

I personally would view the disaster as an opportunity to start things over (not just NFL-wise, but we'll limit the discussion to that) with a largely clean slate. Getting out from under a $180 million bribe to an NFL owner you don't like is a good enough start.

I would do what Nagin started with trying to get a Browns-type deal out of the NFL, but privately at first, getting a few guaranteed Super Bowls (hell, ask for a decade of them) in the process while waiting for the next move or round of expansions. By that time, you would have a really good idea whether NOLA could truly support an NFL team without a yearly $20 million bribe to any owner that might come around.

I agree about starting over fresh. They should be allowed the Cleveland plan and that way they could start over and take their time repairing the dome right. And then they could start with a new Saints team, new owner and maybe even a new dome if they want. I think they are just concerned losing everything and you can't blame them for that...If they do lose their team and are not approved the Cleveland plan, that wouldn't seem right...But then Nagin better face reality if he does get his team back, Benson is NOT going to go away....So he better weigh his options really hard...I would think starting fresh would be better for them and maybe even get an owner they like...LOL...

[Shiner Bock Girl]

I can't say that I don't feel for them, but it seems like ALL of them are currently out of touch with reality. If attendence at BR is really low, some of them might commit suicide.

There's a fine line between being a fan and being fanatical.

No i think they will sell this game out...I want the Saints to play in a good environment...What ever happens is going to happen regardless if all the games sell or not...Its up to what Benson wants to do and what the committee decides...So i hope they get a good home crowd so the Saints can kick Ricky Williams ass...YEAHHH!!!!!!!!!....I never have liked that guy...
:smokin

[dknights411]

No i think they will sell this game out...I want the Saints to play in a good environment...What ever happens is going to happen regardless if all the games sell or not...Its up to what Benson wants to do and what the committee decides...So i hope they get a good home crowd so the Saints can kick Ricky Williams ass...YEAHHH!!!!!!!!!....I never have liked that guy...
:smokin

Ok, but remember that Baton Rouge has FOUR games. The attendence for the other games will count just as much as the Miami game. It won't matter that Miami sells out if the other games draw very poorly. Which is something the people over at Saintsreport don't seem to understand.

[TOP-CHERRY]

Guys, I have a proposal that should please everyone...


San Antonio receives:

Saints

New Orleans receives:

Buddy Holly/TheWriter
San Antonio has a functioning stadium and is a more attractive location for a NFL franchise than South Louisiana. Buddy Holly has a mammoth hardon for city planning and has years of experience as a dogged promoter of municipal development on the internets. He could jump start the redevelopment of New Orleans as it emerges from the Katrina catastrophe with the power of his modem.
I like this proposal.

[Shiner Bock Girl]

Ok, but remember that Baton Rouge has FOUR games. The attendence for the other games will count just as much as the Miami game. It won't matter that Miami sells out if the other games draw very poorly. Which is something the people over at Saintsreport don't seem to understand.

True

[John T]

Ok, but remember that Baton Rouge has FOUR games. The attendence for the other games will count just as much as the Miami game. It won't matter that Miami sells out if the other games draw very poorly. Which is something the people over at Saintsreport don't seem to understand.

But then the same could be said about us right? Are there any NEW numbers about the number of seats left for the Christmas Eve game? Last I heard there are 40,000. That's a lot, and without any advertising (at least that I've heard/seen) to sell those tickets, it's going to be hard. Especially if they wait too long, and nobody wants to spend the money because it's too close to Christmas. Maybe I don't get out enough, but the only advertising I've seen is two Budweiser billboards that simply have the Saints' logo on them.


Carie

[Shiner Bock Girl]

But then the same could be said about us right? Are there any NEW numbers about the number of seats left for the Christmas Eve game? Last I heard there are 40,000. That's a lot, and without any advertising (at least that I've heard/seen) to sell those tickets, it's going to be hard. Especially if they wait too long, and nobody wants to spend the money because it's too close to Christmas. Maybe I don't get out enough, but the only advertising I've seen is two Budweiser billboards that simply have the Saints' logo on them.


Carie

SA usually doesn't really start buying tickets till almost the last minute..I know i do...Also being it is x-mas eve, ppl need to find out about family things and what plans they might have then..Its still too soon...I agree though, i don't see much advertising on this game...

[John T]

Has there been advertising for the other games?


Carie

[McKenzie]

Oh really....S.A. got hit by a Cat 4 hurricane? Didn't realize. That wasn't looting. That was courting. Big difference.

Are you comparing apples and oranges?



This subject has curled my last hair. I'm going to say this and whatever happens, happens. In no particular order:

#1. San Antonio did not create a hurricane to level New Orleans so that we could loot the team.

#2. San Antonioians, including Hardberger, have no say in what happens to the Saints and where they will end up. They can spit sound bites at the news until it gets real cold very far south of here and it won't matter....

#3. Louisiana has a formal, legal, binding contract with the Saints to provide a playing field, and that field isn't Tiger Stadium.

#4. San Antonio seems to enjoy the Saints playing/living/hanging out here. We are selling plenty of seats and spending bucks!!!! to be at the games. It's cool with us if they stay. :) *personal jibe there*

#5. Three-fourths of the NFL owners must agree to move an NFL team.

#6. San Antonio did not create a hurricane to level New Orleans so that we could loot the team. (I know I said that already, but the final comment will reflect the redundancy)

#7. There will be many different factors in place sometime in the future to determine the final resting spot of the Saints, and it won't be up to Hardberger or any other person from San Antonio to make that call. (See NFL guidelines for re-location)

#8. This nonsense is getting old.

#9. Why is this an issue? Just because we are hopeful, and some more than others for reasons you cannot possibly fathom, for the Saints remaining here ARE NOT up to this city.

#10. In order to "loot" one must willingly enter a place for the sole purpose of stealing contents. As I last recall, the Saints fled here upon notification of the breech of the levee that obilerated the 9th Ward. We didn't pluck them from their rooftops. They were already headed here.

Any nasty comments regarding the unlikely re-location of the Saints being San Antonio needs to: 1) Consult the NFL rules regarding such and 2) Bark at the owner who may, in fact or may not, wish to move. Remember folks. At this point, the Saints have no home in Louisiana. By an agreement between football and state, LA must maintain a playing site that does not include Tiger Stadium. Either re-build the SuperDome or instantly break ground on a new facility that resembles Reliant in Houston.

Jeez...this is such a no brainer! Forget the evening news and let these guys play out their season. :rolleyes

[Shiner Bock Girl]

This subject has curled my last hair. I'm going to say this and whatever happens, happens. In no particular order:

#1. San Antonio did not create a hurricane to level New Orleans so that we could loot the team.

#2. San Antonioians, including Hardberger, have no say in what happens to the Saints and where they will end up. They can spit sound bites at the news until it gets real cold very far south of here and it won't matter....

#3. Louisiana has a formal, legal, binding contract with the Saints to provide a playing field, and that field isn't Tiger Stadium.

#4. San Antonio seems to enjoy the Saints playing/living/hanging out here. We are selling plenty of seats and spending bucks!!!! to be at the games. It's cool with us if they stay. :) *personal jibe there*

#5. Three-fourths of the NFL owners must agree to move an NFL team.

#6. San Antonio did not create a hurricane to level New Orleans so that we could loot the team. (I know I said that already, but the final comment will reflect the redundancy)

#7. There will be many different factors in place sometime in the future to determine the final resting spot of the Saints, and it won't be up to Hardberger or any other person from San Antonio to make that call. (See NFL guidelines for re-location)

#8. This nonsense is getting old.

#9. Why is this an issue? Just because we are hopeful, and some more than others for reasons you cannot possibly fathom, for the Saints remaining here ARE NOT up to this city.

#10. In order to "loot" one must willingly enter a place for the sole purpose of stealing contents. As I last recall, the Saints fled here upon notification of the breech of the levee that obilerated the 9th Ward. We didn't pluck them from their rooftops. They were already headed here.

Any nasty comments regarding the unlikely re-location of the Saints being San Antonio needs to: 1) Consult the NFL rules regarding such and 2) Bark at the owner who may, in fact or may not, wish to move. Remember folks. At this point, the Saints have no home in Louisiana. By an agreement between football and state, LA must maintain a playing site that does not include Tiger Stadium. Either re-build the SuperDome or instantly break ground on a new facility that resembles Reliant in Houston.

Jeez...this is such a no brainer! Forget the evening news and let these guys play out their season. :rolleyes


Now this girl knows her stuff. :tu :tu :tu :tu

[McKenzie]

Well, seeing as how the state had to pony up $186 million in direct payments to make the team profitable with a full population, tax base and business presence -- it would be fair to say that someone will have to pay alot more to keep them in NOLA.

In light of all the money that needs to be spent on rebuilding -- how much should be paid to keep the Saints in NOLA and who should pay it?

If you really attempt to answer those questions, things become much more clear.


The state of Louisana has to pay for it. They'll get a break with some insurance money from the damage to the Dome. How much remains to be seen. Blanco needs to fully allocate that $125 million that had guys working on the Dome's roof a few days ago. She can't threaten to void anything at this point, as was reported yesterday. This matter is fully a complicated one. It really isn't a slam dunk-looter wants-owner wishes to move-easy choice.

[rr2418]

This subject has curled my last hair. I'm going to say this and whatever happens, happens. In no particular order:

#1. San Antonio did not create a hurricane to level New Orleans so that we could loot the team.

#2. San Antonioians, including Hardberger, have no say in what happens to the Saints and where they will end up. They can spit sound bites at the news until it gets real cold very far south of here and it won't matter....

#3. Louisiana has a formal, legal, binding contract with the Saints to provide a playing field, and that field isn't Tiger Stadium.

#4. San Antonio seems to enjoy the Saints playing/living/hanging out here. We are selling plenty of seats and spending bucks!!!! to be at the games. It's cool with us if they stay. :) *personal jibe there*

#5. Three-fourths of the NFL owners must agree to move an NFL team.

#6. San Antonio did not create a hurricane to level New Orleans so that we could loot the team. (I know I said that already, but the final comment will reflect the redundancy)

#7. There will be many different factors in place sometime in the future to determine the final resting spot of the Saints, and it won't be up to Hardberger or any other person from San Antonio to make that call. (See NFL guidelines for re-location)

#8. This nonsense is getting old.

#9. Why is this an issue? Just because we are hopeful, and some more than others for reasons you cannot possibly fathom, for the Saints remaining here ARE NOT up to this city.

#10. In order to "loot" one must willingly enter a place for the sole purpose of stealing contents. As I last recall, the Saints fled here upon notification of the breech of the levee that obilerated the 9th Ward. We didn't pluck them from their rooftops. They were already headed here.

Any nasty comments regarding the unlikely re-location of the Saints being San Antonio needs to: 1) Consult the NFL rules regarding such and 2) Bark at the owner who may, in fact or may not, wish to move. Remember folks. At this point, the Saints have no home in Louisiana. By an agreement between football and state, LA must maintain a playing site that does not include Tiger Stadium. Either re-build the SuperDome or instantly break ground on a new facility that resembles Reliant in Houston.

Jeez...this is such a no brainer! Forget the evening news and let these guys play out their season. :rolleyes


Yes, it's true that it's up to the NFL to decide what happens with this situation. I think what the NO fans are angry about (at least I would be), is the displaying of "SAints" or " San Antonio Saints" t-shirts. Heck, I even saw one that read " San Antonio Santos", given the name SA's own flavor. Right now the NO people have lost everything or almost everything, and any thing will irritate them as little as it may seem. So displaying shirts and banners, not to mention our BIG MOUTH of a mayor, telling the whole world that Benson wants to move the Saints over here, is not.........well very nice. I personally don't want the Saints to come over here. I agree with NO and others that the timing is not right. If they should come? Well, they come!! I'll still and always will be a Dallas Cowboy fan, and will never root against them. But if SA does indeed get a team, I'll root for them, except when playing against the Cowboys. Hopefully the NO will keep their team, or at least keep the logo, name, and colors, in case of expansion.

[Shiner Bock Girl]

Yes, it's true that it's up to the NFL to decide what happens with this situation. I think what the NO fans are angry about (at least I would be), is the displaying of "SAints" or " San Antonio Saints" t-shirts. Heck, I even saw one that read " San Antonio Santos", given the name SA's own flavor. Right now the NO people have lost everything or almost everything, and any thing will irritate them as little as it may seem. So displaying shirts and banners, not to mention our BIG MOUTH of a mayor, telling the whole world that Benson wants to move the Saints over here, is not.........well very nice. I personally don't want the Saints to come over here. I agree with NO and others that the timing is not right. If they should come? Well, they come!! I'll still and always will be a Dallas Cowboy fan, and will never root against them. But if SA does indeed get a team, I'll root for them, except when playing against the Cowboys. Hopefully the NO will keep their team, or at least keep the logo, name, and colors, in case of expansion.

I agree with you up to a certain point..But, I hope the Saints do stay here and i would no longer be a Texans fan...I would rather support my city.....SA didn't cause their misfortune and we can't fix them either....

[samikeyp]

Well said.

[McKenzie]

If we get to keep them, I hope we get to keep the colors and logo. My house is over flowing with gear and fleur-de-lis, and stuff. I have tons of NOLA stuff. Starting over would just plain suck for me. Looking around at everything I'd have to replace with a new scheme is daunting.

[Bloodline666]

Clarify something for me...did this flood make the Spurs dome unusable? Did the Spurs have to relocate because of this flood? Where did the Spurs play while the dome was being repaired? Where there other circumstances surrounding the Spurs that prompted N.O. to court the Spurs franchise?

Honestly I don't know becuase I don't follow the NBA and don't particularly care for professional basketball. I vaugly remember this whole fiasco but do not recall the details.
No offense to fellow Spurs fans, as I'm stating the facts here.

I vividly remember that flood, as it happened on my 15th birthday.

To answer your question, the Spurs still played in the Alamodome. I don't remember if the dome was unusable, though. But if it was, wanna know what saved the Spurs from having to play their home games elsewhere?

It was an NBA Lockout. David Stern locked out the league until the Players Association could come up with a Collective Bargaining Agreement (not sure if that's accurate, though). Anyway, the 1998-1999 season did not start until like, January or February...something like that. As a result, the regular season was shortened from the standard 82 games per team to 50 games per team. Not only that, but the All-Star Game was not held at all in 1999. If the Alamodome was unusable to any extent, then the NBA Lockout was actually a blessing in disguise for San Antonio, as it bought time to repair whatever damage was done to the Alamodome. (the flood happened in the middle of October, and the NBA has pre-season games during October, while the regular season usually starts towards the beginning of November).

Oh, and it was the Spurs that ended up winning the NBA Championship at the end of that lock-out shortened season...right before the three-peat of that team I detest more than any other team in sports.

[hicksi]

If we get to keep them, I hope we get to keep the colors and logo. My house is over flowing with gear and fleur-de-lis, and stuff. I have tons of NOLA stuff. Starting over would just plain suck for me. Looking around at everything I'd have to replace with a new scheme is daunting.
I would really hope, for New Orleans sake, that ALL fleur-de-lis logos are REMOVED from the team.

[MadDog725]

The good people of San antonio are welcome to continue this debate in a forum that was specially set up by a site administrator in a "unique" Saints fan web site. You are free to post as a guest user with no registration required... However, if you chose to register, you will have access to the rest of the site and a chance to meet many "interesting" fans from all over the NFC South. We have Buc fans, Falcon fans and Saints fans from England, Austrailia, Denmark as well as nation-wide in the USA...

Come on over and give it a try... No ambush, guaranteed...

All we ask is that the discussions be kept civil or the admin will block IP's..

Try it.... You'll like it!!!

http://www.radiofreebng.com/php/index.php?sid=128b77da8d8ffd46efa8fab232cb77bf

Where ya at Hicksi?... See you beat me here.. :spin

[tgrgrd00]

No offense to fellow Spurs fans, as I'm stating the facts here.

I vividly remember that flood, as it happened on my 15th birthday.

To answer your question, the Spurs still played in the Alamodome. I don't remember if the dome was unusable, though. But if it was, wanna know what saved the Spurs from having to play their home games elsewhere?

It was an NBA Lockout. David Stern locked out the league until the Players Association could come up with a Collective Bargaining Agreement (not sure if that's accurate, though). Anyway, the 1998-1999 season did not start until like, January or February...something like that. As a result, the regular season was shortened from the standard 82 games per team to 50 games per team. Not only that, but the All-Star Game was not held at all in 1999. If the Alamodome was unusable to any extent, then the NBA Lockout was actually a blessing in disguise for San Antonio, as it bought time to repair whatever damage was done to the Alamodome. (the flood happened in the middle of October, and the NBA has pre-season games during October, while the regular season usually starts towards the beginning of November).

Oh, and it was the Spurs that ended up winning the NBA Championship at the end of that lock-out shortened season...right before the three-peat of that team I detest more than any other team in sports.

Thanks for the clarification. I learned something.

Perhaps some people would feel differently had the Spurs had to relocate because of the flood and never come back.

[exstatic]

Where's your outrage that Entergy is being courted by Mississippi to stay on? Those are JOBS walking out the door. That is who the City of NO needs to concentrate on bringing back, not a subsidized football team.

[tgrgrd00]

Where's your outrage that Entergy is being courted by Mississippi to stay on? Those are JOBS walking out the door. That is who the City of NO needs to concentrate on bringing back, not a subsidized football team.

I am not happy about that either.

Do you want me to discuss Mississippi and Entergy on an NFL board on Spurstalk.com???

Seems a little off topic but I will whine about it on here if you want.

[Extra Stout]

Well, it looks like Benson is going to make a real effort to stick around in New Orleans.

I hope that goes well.

[Shiner Bock Girl]

Well, it looks like Benson is going to make a real effort to stick around in New Orleans.

I hope that goes well.

Well its going to be a business decision whether its SA, LA, or NOLA....The mans not going to lose money..I wish the team well where ever they go...I feel the real test will be on Nov 29th...I believe that is the date he can go for the Disaster clause and void his contract with NOLA? Or he has to pay $81 million to get out of it, and i think we all know hes not going to do that...LOL....So wouldn't he have to make a decision by then rather then the end of the season???

[Carie]

I feel the real test will be on Nov 29th...I believe that is the date he can go for the Disaster clause and void his contract with NOLA? Or he has to pay $81 million to get out of it, and i think we all know hes not going to do that...LOL....So wouldn't he have to make a decision by then rather then the end of the season???
I think that's the date he has to file whatever legal paperwork to get out of the contract. But that doesn't mean that he'll start talking to S.A. or L.A. about next season or beyond at that point. Will give him and NO a few more months to see how things are progressing.

[Shiner Bock Girl]

I think that's the date he has to file whatever legal paperwork to get out of the contract. But that doesn't mean that he'll start talking to S.A. or L.A. about next season or beyond at that point. Will give him and NO a few more months to see how things are progressing.


That makes sense...

[T Park]

After reading this,

it almost makes me wish SA had just told FEMA

"Keep those ingratefull assholes"


I started to feel that way whena member of the great city of New Orleans, stated that the facilities in the Houston Astrodome were "Subpar" and that he "Demanded 20 thousand dollars, a new job and house"


Come on Hardberger, get it done.


Bring the Saints here. This whole situation has brought an extreme distaste for the city and the people of New Orleans.

They are the most ungratefull, and most shortminded, and most forgetfull people, since the french in 1945.

[cherylsteele]

From wikipedia.org:

The NFL awarded the city of New Orleans an NFL franchise on 1 November 1966.

Awarded: v: Give; Bestow; Grant
That is a stupid refetence.
Cities hsve been "awarded" franchises from all major sports and some have moved....if the cities "owned" them, they would never have been able to move.
New Orleans...in fact....did it to Charlotte....so now you are mad it is happening to you.

[N.Y. Johnny]

After reading this,

it almost makes me wish SA had just told FEMA

"Keep those ingratefull assholes"


I started to feel that way whena member of the great city of New Orleans, stated that the facilities in the Houston Astrodome were "Subpar" and that he "Demanded 20 thousand dollars, a new job and house"


Come on Hardberger, get it done.


Bring the Saints here. This whole situation has brought an extreme distaste for the city and the people of New Orleans.

They are the most ungratefull, and most shortminded, and most forgetfull people, since the french in 1945.




:lol hahahah...thats terrific, thats terrific :smokin

[tgrgrd00]

That is a stupid refetence.
Cities hsve been "awarded" franchises from all major sports and some have moved....if the cities "owned" them, they would never have been able to move.
New Orleans...in fact....did it to Charlotte....so now you are mad it is happening to you.

Charlotte had a team already awarded to them before the Hornets left. They wanted Shinn out of the city so bad they practically ran him out of town.

This situation is completely different.

[tgrgrd00]

After reading this,

it almost makes me wish SA had just told FEMA

"Keep those ingratefull assholes"


I started to feel that way whena member of the great city of New Orleans, stated that the facilities in the Houston Astrodome were "Subpar" and that he "Demanded 20 thousand dollars, a new job and house"


Come on Hardberger, get it done.


Bring the Saints here. This whole situation has brought an extreme distaste for the city and the people of New Orleans.

They are the most ungratefull, and most shortminded, and most forgetfull people, since the french in 1945.

I'm sorry you feel this way.

I have thanked many people for helping out after the disaster and I am still appreciative for what everyone across the country has done. I regret that one person at the Astrodome was able to create so much disdain for N.O. and the people that live here.

The way that S.A. has handled the situation with the Saints since the storm has made me want to say to the NFL.

"get rid of those insensitive assholes"

I started feeling that way when the Mayor of S.A. stated publicly that he wanted the Saints to stay in S.A. "permanently". In the middle of the season just 7 weeks after the disaster.

This whole situation has brought extreme distaste for the city and people of SA.

They are the most insensitive, gready, short minded, and forgetfull people since the french in 1945.

[samikeyp]

This whole situation has brought extreme distaste for the city and people of SA.

Caught you in a lie.

You had said in previous posts that you were upset with the government of SA but you liked the city and were not mad at the people, except those with the SA Saints signs.

Busted.

[McKenzie]

I would really hope, for New Orleans sake, that ALL fleur-de-lis logos are REMOVED from the team.


Party pooper. :spin

[tgrgrd00]

Caught you in a lie.

You had said in previous posts that you were upset with the government of SA but you liked the city and were not mad at the people, except those with the SA Saints signs.

Busted.


I was drawing a parrelel between what the previous poster said and how the people of NO could feel the same way about the people of SA for similar reasons.

I am not saying I dislike the people of SA. I am comparing how the feelings between the 2 cities could be mutual because of the points the poster I was responding to pointed out.

My post was more tounge in cheek than anything. If you still feel like you caught me in a lie then so be it. But read the post I was responding to and then read the response and you should see a resemblance.

[samikeyp]

I read the post and see a resemblance but that doesn't mean you don't feel that way...until you indicated otherwise in your more recent post.

[tgrgrd00]

I read the post and see a resemblance but that doesn't mean you don't feel that way...until you indicated otherwise in your more recent post.

I didn't say that I don't feel that way in that particular post. I will reiterate that I have nothing against the people of San Antonio. I have a problem with they way the poeple of SA's mayor has approached the situation (especially if he isn't willing to build a new stadium).


T Park stated that he has great dislike for the people of N.O. because of what one (idiot) person said. My statements were only top point at that the same thing could be said about the people of SA because of what their mayor said.

[cherylsteele]

Charlotte had a team already awarded to them before the Hornets left. They wanted Shinn out of the city so bad they practically ran him out of town.

This situation is completely different.
That is not what you said first.....You implied that a team should stay if the city is awarded a franchise becasue the city owned them.....you included no exceptions until someone called you on it. The Bobcats weren't really a thought until after the fact. Sure there was speculation but that is all.

You implied a team should stay in a particular city because it was "awarded" a team....if that is the case the Cardinal would dtill be in Chicago, the Jazz would still be in New Orleans (your city never supported them either).
The Radiers would never have left Oakland in the first place.
The NBA Kings would still be in Cincinnati or Rochester.
The Expos would still be Montreal.
The Grizzlies would still be in Vancouver.

You say that there are more importnat matter for New Orelans right...that is very true....but you have a fit if a hometown team were to leave. I woukld be more upset at the some of the businesses that are sure to leave. Those athat are still there....many of them have no job to go too still and you are worrying about the Saints? You need to get your priorities in line before you come a berate those in others cities that you feel have disrepected your city. The Saints should at the bottom of the list right now for you.
NO was not the greatest when it came to supporting the Saints.
You want to critisize Benson?...fine. Before he bought the team they were ALWAYS LOSING.....after he bought them they have at least made the playoffs a couple of times and still the people of New Orleans couldn't fill the Superdome....they were in the bottom 5 of attendance for last several years.

I would much rather see New Orleans spend the millions on improving the levees, a better pumping system, rebuild schools, roads, and the general utilities first so the chances of this happening again are lessened. you want to bitch and moan about the Saints while the cities infrastruce crumbles around you? You want your cake and eat too?

[samikeyp]

Charlotte had a team already awarded to them before the Hornets left. They wanted Shinn out of the city so bad they practically ran him out of town.

This situation is completely different.

Hornets were looking to move, New Orleans said we want you here before any deal was in place. Seems like the same.

[tgrgrd00]

That is not what you said first.....You implied that a team should stay if the city is awarded a franchise becasue the city owned them.....you included no exceptions until someone called you on it. The Bobcats weren't really a thought until after the fact. Sure there was speculation but that is all.

You implied a team should stay in a particular city because it was "awarded" a team....if that is the case the Cardinal would dtill be in Chicago, the Jazz would still be in New Orleans (your city never supported them either).
The Radiers would never have left Oakland in the first place.
The NBA Kings would still be in Cincinnati or Rochester.
The Expos would still be Montreal.
The Grizzlies would still be in Vancouver.

You say that there are more importnat matter for New Orelans right...that is very true....but you have a fit if a hometown team were to leave. I woukld be more upset at the some of the businesses that are sure to leave. Those athat are still there....many of them have no job to go too still and you are worrying about the Saints? You need to get your priorities in line before you come a berate those in others cities that you feel have disrepected your city. The Saints should at the bottom of the list right now for you.
NO was not the greatest when it came to supporting the Saints.
You want to critisize Benson?...fine. Before he bought the team they were ALWAYS LOSING.....after he bought them they have at least made the playoffs a couple of times and still the people of New Orleans couldn't fill the Superdome....they were in the bottom 5 of attendance for last several years.

I would much rather see New Orleans spend the millions on improving the levees, a better pumping system, rebuild schools, roads, and the general utilities first so the chances of this happening again are lessened. you want to bitch and moan about the Saints while the cities infrastruce crumbles around you? You want your cake and eat too?

I wouldn't have to bitch and moan about the Saints if SA's mayor wasn't running his mouth 7 weeks after Katrina.

The N.O. Saints are a business in Louisiana...just like any other. As a matter of fact they are one of the most important. Just ask your mayor why he wants them so bad.

Oh and the city of NO has never had a problem supporting the Saints. NO has maintained support for this team even though we are historically one of the worst teams in the NFL. If you measure attendance as compared to wins and losses NO would probably be #1 in attendance over the past 38 years.

I never said NO owned the Saints. I said the city was awarded the team. I don't think something awarded to something or somebody should be taken away. I never said NO was right for taking the Hornets and I don't particularly know if NO we did the right thing, I just know Charlotte has a team.

[cherylsteele]

I wouldn't have to bitch and moan about the Saints if SA's mayor wasn't running his mouth 7 weeks after Katrina.

The N.O. Saints are a business in Louisiana...just like any other. As a matter of fact they are one of the most important. Just ask your mayor why he wants them so bad.

Oh and the city of NO has never had a problem supporting the Saints. NO has maintained support for this team even though we are historically one of the worst teams in the NFL. If you measure attendance as compared to wins and losses NO would probably be #1 in attendance over the past 38 years.

I never said NO owned the Saints. I said the city was awarded the team. I don't think something awarded to something or somebody should be taken away. I never said NO was right for taking the Hornets and I don't particularly know if NO we did the right thing, I just know Charlotte has a team.

The Saints are one if the most important businesses? The Saints should be rather low on the list of priorities right now. You will have all this money coming in to help your city rebuild and you are worried about the Saints? I would be more worried about the levees being rebuilt to try to prevent this in the future, along with updating the pumping stations to a more viable pumping capacity. You should be worrying about the infrastrucure of the city (schools, police, fire, hospitals, etc)before you worry about professional sports teams' facilities. If it happened here and the spurs were to leave, I would be upset but would also understand that it is a business and they are doing what they feel is best for that business.

You haven't fill the dome in the last several years (you have been in the bottom 5 of the NFL capacity-wise)when all was well and good and now when they are on the verge of leaving you complain? It is like a couple who argues and when one says I'm leaving...the other says please don't....I promise I'll love you. The Fans in New Orleans seem to have taken the saints for granted in many ways. What were to happen if Benson were to suddenly sell the team...he has said offers have been made...and those new owners decide to move the team to San Antonio (or elsewhere) anyways?


I have no problem if the Saints stay in New Orleans, that would be best...if the city can support them, which they have been iffy at best.

I just think your priorities are skewed.

[tgrgrd00]

The Saints are one if the most important businesses? The Saints should be rather low on the list of priorities right now. You will have all this money coming in to help your city rebuild and you are worried about the Saints? I would be more worried about the levees being rebuilt to try to prevent this in the future, along with updating the pumping stations to a more viable pumping capacity. You should be worrying about the infrastrucure of the city (schools, police, fire, hospitals, etc)before you worry about professional sports teams' facilities. If it happened here and the spurs were to leave, I would be upset but would also understand that it is a business and they are doing what they feel is best for that business.

You haven't fill the dome in the last several years (you have been in the bottom 5 of the NFL capacity-wise)when all was well and good and now when they are on the verge of leaving you complain? It is like a couple who argues and when one says I'm leaving...the other says please don't....I promise I'll love you. The Fans in New Orleans seem to have taken the saints for granted in many ways. What were to happen if Benson were to suddenly sell the team...he has said offers have been made...and those new owners decide to move the team to San Antonio (or elsewhere) anyways?


I have no problem if the Saints stay in New Orleans, that would be best...if the city can support them, which they have been iffy at best.

I just think your priorities are skewed.

There are plenty of things to worry about in LA right now, I am aware of this. We are working on the levees, schools, etc. If it wasn't for SA's mayor we would be able to concetrate more on the other things right now. Rather than trying to fight for our team to enjoy after we rebuild the infastructure. In order for things to return to how they were (which is what rebuilding is all about right?) the Saints must be a part of N.O.

Here is a recent study to back up why we are concerned about losing the Saints.

Importance of Saints to N.O. (http://www.neworleanssaints.com/docs/02noseconimpact-cover_summary.doc)

Since 2001 the N.O. Saints have been no where near the bottom 5 in attendance. I don't know where you get your numbers from but you are misinformed. Click on each year to see the attendance numbers. Figure in that we have one of the worst records in NFL history and I would say that support has been way better than "iffy" for a "small market" team.

NFL Attendance (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/attendance?year=2001)

[cherylsteele]

There are plenty of things to worry about in LA right now, I am aware of this. We are working on the levees, schools, etc. If it wasn't for SA's mayor we would be able to concetrate more on the other things right now.
I think you should be worrying about the what the city is going to do with its infrastructure instead of worrying about a sports franchise.

Worrying about the mayor of another city over a sports team's location is pathetic.

If you keep tthe Saints but have too few hospitals, schools, police and fire protection, better levees, high pumping capacity,etc. don't come bitching to us for sympathy. This is the time to start from almost scratch and get it right, the Saints shoild be way down on the list. I have been seening reports thst many of the state politicians are upset that the priorities of many elected officials are back asswards.

When rebuilding a city...professional sports should be at or near the bottom of the list of things to do.

[tgrgrd00]

I think you should be worrying about the what the city is going to do with its infrastructure instead of worrying about a sports franchise.

There is work being done on the infrastructure daily. I am worried about this...I don't see where I ever said the Saints were more important than the schools, power lines, pumps, levees etc. I think the Saints are important to the future vitality of the city. The goal is to not just rebuild the infrastructure (that would be silly) it is to rebuild the entire city including but not limited to the Saints.


Worrying about the mayor of another city over a sports team's location is pathetic.

I would go one step further and say that a mayor of another city publically courting a team from a city devasted from a natural disaster in the middle of the season is even more pathetic.

Besides I think your statement is absured...what are we supposed to do? Just ignore the whole situation and not worry about it? Please re-read the link above regarding the impact of the Saints on NO and LA. I cannot grasp how it is pathetic to worry about this situation when everything mentioned in that study is at stake.


I have been seening reports thst many of the state politicians are upset that the priorities of many elected officials are back asswards.

That is funny I have seen many of the state politicians saying that the priorities and methods of many elected officials in SA have been back asswards too.

[TheWriter]

tgrg, give it up, you're speaking on a subject we can't control. Your little bitchfest is useless.

Just leave and go post at SaintsReport.com

I'm sure they'd love you to no end there.

[hicksi]

I think you should be worrying about the what the city is going to do with its infrastructure instead of worrying about a sports franchise.

Worrying about the mayor of another city over a sports team's location is pathetic.

If you keep tthe Saints but have too few hospitals, schools, police and fire protection, better levees, high pumping capacity,etc. don't come bitching to us for sympathy. This is the time to start from almost scratch and get it right, the Saints shoild be way down on the list. I have been seening reports thst many of the state politicians are upset that the priorities of many elected officials are back asswards.

When rebuilding a city...professional sports should be at or near the bottom of the list of things to do.
Totally agree that hospitals, schools and police are a priority.
Then again, it appears that Dallas is NOT hiring police that they think deserted their posts.
Pity that Hamburgler and his new bum-buddy don't have the same decency, which necessitates these responses from New Orleans.

[McKenzie]

The Saints are one if the most important businesses? I just think your priorities are skewed.

Yes, in truth the Saints are one of the State's most important businesses. That's why they get funded by the state to stay. That's a very long story and I don't have the time to link everything in to show how complicated the relationship is. You'll just have to take my word for it.

However, the point you make about priorites is more important than anything else. There are a ton of jobs in New Orleans paying very well for the clean-up and rebuilding. There are not as many persons working as they need. For instance, they have a team to remove dead cars from the city. They take about 100 a day. At this rate, it will take 3 years to remove all the cars. They need many more teams just to do that. That's the tip of the iceburg. A friend of mine called Thursday from Covington. He changed jobs and now is trying to clean-up there, but the workers are outnumbered. The tasks are so daunting. Not enough people to really put a dent in it. More locals need to get with it.

Tag is going to push for a resolution, IMHO, as soon as the Super Bowl is over. He'll have time to devote to this issue then. If New Orleans isn't getting it's act together, they will lose the team. The Dome or some other place has to be ready or the whole notion of them coming back is history, first and foremost. It would be nice if the people of New Orleans would look to their neighbors and work together to keep the team close. Once they go to The City of Angels, it's all over but the crying.