YOUR Albany Patroons

Or maybe it's MY Albany Patroons. Went to the games on Friday with a friend, and Saturday alone. I love it. I just like the event of it - I would never watch basketball on TV - It is the up close and personal aspect of it, the cheering, and just being a part of it.

Of course it brings me back to the 80s, when I used to go to the games a lot. Maybe '83 - '85, "there's no fear in McPherson"...I just remember it as a really good time.

I would not like to see them fail. Jim Coyne wouldn't want that either, so here are a few suggestions...

1. Better communication. I get emails saying you are having a promotion and GIVING TICKETS AWAY- that's great, the more bodies in there the better, BUT I am a season ticket holder- do you think you could also email me every time the schedule gets changed? There have been 4 or 5 changes already- I blocked out my calendar so I wouldn't work on any game day, but with all the changes I have to make sure the job is covered as well. A little more notice would be helpful, and regular communication would add to the 'perceived value' of these tickets.

2. The mascot, LIDO, is ok for a panda bear, but why is he walking around with a rip in his uniform? It looks terrible. I am sure I am not the only one that has noticed that...it says "if we don't care, why should you?"

3. How about a program that reflects the roster of who is actually on the team? Even if the new guy just came in that day, we want to know about him! Given the complexity of the 'program', this is certainly do-able. Also, my friend, a first-timer I invited to attend, took one look at the program and suggested we pass the hat so you can buy a toner cartridge for the copying. Again, if you don't care, why should we?

I don't want to see this franchise go under. I want to watch my beloved Patroons go on to greatness, and bring home the championship for our own Dr. D.

Hey, I can dream can't I?