View Full Version : Lightning to offer free beer to STH?
Captain Slack
05-12-2004, 07:57 AM
Wow! This would pack them in if RBC Center made this offer!
Tampa Bay Lightning May Offer Free Beer
1 hour, 24 minutes ago
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TAMPA, Fla. - The Tampa Bay Lightning (news) is hoping to tap into larger crowds by offering unlimited free beer to season ticket holders.
But the sudsy sale may not reach its goal if safe-driving advocates have their way.
Police and several area chapters of Mothers Against Drunk Driving say the hockey team's offer is irresponsible.
"Why attach alcohol to a season-ticket plan? It's almost encouraging people to drink more than they should because it is free," said Sgt. Chris Velar, who runs the Police Department's drunken driving squad.
During the first Eastern Conference playoff game between the Lightning and the Philadelphia Flyers (news) Saturday, the St. Pete Times Forum's main scoreboard advertised the offer. Those who paid $100 toward 2004-05 season tickets were eligible for unlimited free beer during the game.
About 25 of the 21,000 people at the game signed up for season tickets, said team spokesman Bill Wickett.
People who are already intoxicated aren't served beer and free taxi rides are provided to patrons who believe they have had too much to drink, Wickett said.
Captain Slack
05-12-2004, 07:57 AM
Wow! This would pack them in if RBC Center made this offer!
Tampa Bay Lightning May Offer Free Beer
1 hour, 24 minutes ago
Add Top Stories - AP to My Yahoo!
TAMPA, Fla. - The Tampa Bay Lightning (news) is hoping to tap into larger crowds by offering unlimited free beer to season ticket holders.
But the sudsy sale may not reach its goal if safe-driving advocates have their way.
Police and several area chapters of Mothers Against Drunk Driving say the hockey team's offer is irresponsible.
"Why attach alcohol to a season-ticket plan? It's almost encouraging people to drink more than they should because it is free," said Sgt. Chris Velar, who runs the Police Department's drunken driving squad.
During the first Eastern Conference playoff game between the Lightning and the Philadelphia Flyers (news) Saturday, the St. Pete Times Forum's main scoreboard advertised the offer. Those who paid $100 toward 2004-05 season tickets were eligible for unlimited free beer during the game.
About 25 of the 21,000 people at the game signed up for season tickets, said team spokesman Bill Wickett.
People who are already intoxicated aren't served beer and free taxi rides are provided to patrons who believe they have had too much to drink, Wickett said.
Shell
05-12-2004, 08:00 AM
I was just coming to post the same article! That would be good incentive for us because of the money saved! I might buy Lightning season tix now ;)
Shell
05-12-2004, 08:00 AM
I was just coming to post the same article! That would be good incentive for us because of the money saved! I might buy Lightning season tix now ;)
nccanes
05-12-2004, 08:02 AM
Wow that's rather bizarre. I realize that anyone that is willing to pay a LOT of money can get totally plastered at each and every game already, so maybe I shouldn't be shocked, but that does sound irresponsible.
So what about the folks that don't drink - do they get any incentive/reward.
And what about STH that have already paid for seats? Do they get the free beer offer.
I want the Canes to do more marketing and promotion, but I can do w/o an offer like this.
(Thanks for posting it.)
nccanes
05-12-2004, 08:02 AM
Wow that's rather bizarre. I realize that anyone that is willing to pay a LOT of money can get totally plastered at each and every game already, so maybe I shouldn't be shocked, but that does sound irresponsible.
So what about the folks that don't drink - do they get any incentive/reward.
And what about STH that have already paid for seats? Do they get the free beer offer.
I want the Canes to do more marketing and promotion, but I can do w/o an offer like this.
(Thanks for posting it.)
The Canes need to take notes..
The Canes need to take notes..
caniac369
05-12-2004, 09:19 AM
Beerrr... Beer good... :smoke: :beer:
caniac369
05-12-2004, 09:19 AM
Beerrr... Beer good... :smoke: :beer:
Canesluver
05-12-2004, 09:30 AM
I can see giving you 1 or 2, but an unlimited supply? That just seems like a huge brawl in the stands waiting to happen.
I'm with NCC on this one. We're not big beer drinkers, but I'd take a few free hotdogs or something... :p
Canesluver
05-12-2004, 09:30 AM
I can see giving you 1 or 2, but an unlimited supply? That just seems like a huge brawl in the stands waiting to happen.
I'm with NCC on this one. We're not big beer drinkers, but I'd take a few free hotdogs or something... :p
nccanes
05-12-2004, 10:08 AM
What the Lightning did last year (don't know about this year) was to give STH vouchers for food and drink based on how long they'd been a plan holder and where their tickets were (and maybe only if they'd paid in full or something). I think that's a great way to give the STH an inexpensive perk.
It rewards long time plan holders (currently the only thing that distinguishes the length of time you've been a STH is your priority for Select a Seat - and that really only benefits people that want to move seats) and makes going to the arena a little less painful. I can't remember how much people got, but I feel like I read about some getting more than $100. Doesn't mean you are going to get a free hotdog and soda/beer for every game, but $100 is $100.
nccanes
05-12-2004, 10:08 AM
What the Lightning did last year (don't know about this year) was to give STH vouchers for food and drink based on how long they'd been a plan holder and where their tickets were (and maybe only if they'd paid in full or something). I think that's a great way to give the STH an inexpensive perk.
It rewards long time plan holders (currently the only thing that distinguishes the length of time you've been a STH is your priority for Select a Seat - and that really only benefits people that want to move seats) and makes going to the arena a little less painful. I can't remember how much people got, but I feel like I read about some getting more than $100. Doesn't mean you are going to get a free hotdog and soda/beer for every game, but $100 is $100.
SouthernHockeyChick
05-12-2004, 10:12 AM
Seriously, they'll have to increase the security force by like 10 fold. At the outrageous prices at the RBCC you already see folks walking around with 6 empty cups before the 3rd period.
What about season ticket holding kids? Are we just gonna start them out early? ;)
If they go through with this I think I'll be avoiding the Lightning games......and ALL Tampa Bay roads anytime after a game. Free beer, though mighty fun, sounds like a recipe for disaster. :crazy:
SouthernHockeyChick
05-12-2004, 10:12 AM
Seriously, they'll have to increase the security force by like 10 fold. At the outrageous prices at the RBCC you already see folks walking around with 6 empty cups before the 3rd period.
What about season ticket holding kids? Are we just gonna start them out early? ;)
If they go through with this I think I'll be avoiding the Lightning games......and ALL Tampa Bay roads anytime after a game. Free beer, though mighty fun, sounds like a recipe for disaster. :crazy:
That is true about giving away unlimited amounts..could be trouble with some folks that might not hold their alcohol in a responsible manner.. they should have a limited number of "free fillups"... and I am not a beer drinker either, so a free hotdog/BBQ sandwich offer sounds good to me.. the hotdogs are $3.. :crazy:
That is true about giving away unlimited amounts..could be trouble with some folks that might not hold their alcohol in a responsible manner.. they should have a limited number of "free fillups"... and I am not a beer drinker either, so a free hotdog/BBQ sandwich offer sounds good to me.. the hotdogs are $3.. :crazy:
apolinar
05-12-2004, 11:59 AM
Free diet pepsis for me and an eric staal signed puck please.
apolinar
05-12-2004, 11:59 AM
Free diet pepsis for me and an eric staal signed puck please.
nccanes
05-12-2004, 12:24 PM
I heard Jim Rome slamming this offer on his show, but he mentioned that the "free beer" part was just for the remainder of the playoffs. I don't know if he is correct or not, but that makes the offer slightly different. It could be for a minimum of 1 game or a maximum of 6.
He was really laying into the org for doing this and claiming that the concession staff was well trained to spot drunks.
nccanes
05-12-2004, 12:24 PM
I heard Jim Rome slamming this offer on his show, but he mentioned that the "free beer" part was just for the remainder of the playoffs. I don't know if he is correct or not, but that makes the offer slightly different. It could be for a minimum of 1 game or a maximum of 6.
He was really laying into the org for doing this and claiming that the concession staff was well trained to spot drunks.
nccanes
05-12-2004, 12:54 PM
Bloomberg News
May. 12, 2004 12:00 AM
The Tampa Bay Lightning are turning off the tap on their free-beer promotion.
After being criticized by police and anti-drinking groups, the National Hockey League team said it won't repeat an offer that allowed fans who paid a $100 deposit for a 2004-05 season ticket to get free beer during Saturday's playoff game against Philadelphia.
"Our intention was not to offend or upset anyone," Lightning spokesman Bill Wickett said in a telephone interview. "It's safe to assume that we won't consider this type of promotion again."
About 20 of the 21,000 fans took advantage of the free-beer offer during Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals between the Lightning and Flyers in Tampa, Wickett said.
While the free beer didn't result in any arrests or incidents, local police and Mothers Against Drunk Driving representatives said the offer was irresponsible.
"They're obviously using alcohol to get business," Cheryl Price, a victim advocate for MADD, told the Tampa Tribune.
Wickett said the Lightning offers intoxicated fans a free cab ride home. He also said vendors are trained not to serve alcohol to fans who appear intoxicated.
The Lightning and Flyers split the first two games of the best-of-seven playoff series in Tampa. The series resumes tomorrow night in Philadelphia.
nccanes
05-12-2004, 12:54 PM
Bloomberg News
May. 12, 2004 12:00 AM
The Tampa Bay Lightning are turning off the tap on their free-beer promotion.
After being criticized by police and anti-drinking groups, the National Hockey League team said it won't repeat an offer that allowed fans who paid a $100 deposit for a 2004-05 season ticket to get free beer during Saturday's playoff game against Philadelphia.
"Our intention was not to offend or upset anyone," Lightning spokesman Bill Wickett said in a telephone interview. "It's safe to assume that we won't consider this type of promotion again."
About 20 of the 21,000 fans took advantage of the free-beer offer during Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals between the Lightning and Flyers in Tampa, Wickett said.
While the free beer didn't result in any arrests or incidents, local police and Mothers Against Drunk Driving representatives said the offer was irresponsible.
"They're obviously using alcohol to get business," Cheryl Price, a victim advocate for MADD, told the Tampa Tribune.
Wickett said the Lightning offers intoxicated fans a free cab ride home. He also said vendors are trained not to serve alcohol to fans who appear intoxicated.
The Lightning and Flyers split the first two games of the best-of-seven playoff series in Tampa. The series resumes tomorrow night in Philadelphia.
caniac369
05-12-2004, 12:55 PM
Free diet pepsis for me and an eric staal signed puck please.
How about the Cane of your choice mowing your lawn? :hearts:
Oh Jesse... :evil:
caniac369
05-12-2004, 12:55 PM
Free diet pepsis for me and an eric staal signed puck please.
How about the Cane of your choice mowing your lawn? :hearts:
Oh Jesse... :evil:
Motorcat
05-12-2004, 01:48 PM
Free beer at a playoff hockey game... sounds like a great offer to me.
Maybe misguided but at least the "Lightning" made an overture to thier STH's.
Motorcat
05-12-2004, 01:48 PM
Free beer at a playoff hockey game... sounds like a great offer to me.
Maybe misguided but at least the "Lightning" made an overture to thier STH's.
talkingcanes
05-12-2004, 02:27 PM
Maybe misguided but at least the "Lightning" made an overture to thier STH's.
I'll take 20% off instead of free beer anytime. Stupid move by TB. Hockey needs some more bad publicity as rip snorting drunks brawl in the stands during the conference finals :roll:
I'm glad people pointed out how stupid this was. Good for them for not doing it again, even if just to avoid bad publicity.
talkingcanes
05-12-2004, 02:27 PM
Maybe misguided but at least the "Lightning" made an overture to thier STH's.
I'll take 20% off instead of free beer anytime. Stupid move by TB. Hockey needs some more bad publicity as rip snorting drunks brawl in the stands during the conference finals :roll:
I'm glad people pointed out how stupid this was. Good for them for not doing it again, even if just to avoid bad publicity.
tommy
05-12-2004, 02:30 PM
Some people have focused on how it's irresponsible to offer free beer.
Today, Bucci pointed out how few people even took advantage of that, and hoped they would win the Cup for the sake of some more fans.
Personally, I don't see how it's stupid. It's the exact same offer -- you can get beer -- you just don't have to pay. If getting it for free sheds a bad light on the fans, then that's just unfortunate. Personally I couldn't care less.
And I couldn't pass for 21 anyways. :beatup:
tommy
05-12-2004, 02:30 PM
Some people have focused on how it's irresponsible to offer free beer.
Today, Bucci pointed out how few people even took advantage of that, and hoped they would win the Cup for the sake of some more fans.
Personally, I don't see how it's stupid. It's the exact same offer -- you can get beer -- you just don't have to pay. If getting it for free sheds a bad light on the fans, then that's just unfortunate. Personally I couldn't care less.
And I couldn't pass for 21 anyways. :beatup:
stewart123
05-12-2004, 02:44 PM
I'm not usually this dumb, but am confused about the specifics.
Was the offer for one playoff game, if you placed a deposit on season tickets.. or for every game next year, if you were a season ticket holder.. or both? And if both, which one was nixed?
stewart123
05-12-2004, 02:44 PM
I'm not usually this dumb, but am confused about the specifics.
Was the offer for one playoff game, if you placed a deposit on season tickets.. or for every game next year, if you were a season ticket holder.. or both? And if both, which one was nixed?
nccanes
05-12-2004, 02:46 PM
Some people have focused on how it's irresponsible to offer free beer.
Today, Bucci pointed out how few people even took advantage of that, and hoped they would win the Cup for the sake of some more fans.
I'm confused. Bucci hopes they win the Cup for sake of more fans? Isn't that the hope of every club not named Detroit, Toronto, Montreal, Colorado and a few others? And what does that have to do with the free beer? (I think I must have missed something in there.)
Personally, I don't see how it's stupid. It's the exact same offer -- you can get beer -- you just don't have to pay. If getting it for free sheds a bad light on the fans, then that's just unfortunate.
It's not the exact same offer. It's free beer - unlimited. And other than being no fun for the other fans sitting next to the drunks (courtesy of the Lightning), those drunks might get behind the wheel of a car.
Yes, personal responsibility always comes into play, but it's very surprising that the Lightning would even come close to putting themselves at risk.
With all the multitude of other ways to promote the season tickets, it was a poor choice.
I might be going off on a tangent, but I think the NHL shoots itself in the foot sooo often. Something like this makes sports headlines, the AP wire, etc. If you go to a Tampa Bay message board today or yesterday, you'll see multitudes of posts and many threads about the "cheap shots", Brashear should be suspended, Markov was cheap for hitting Sydor while he was down, etc. When fans get caught up so many things that have nothing to do with scoring goals or defending nets, how can the NHL and its fans complain about the "bad image" the sport has. It's perpetuated by the players and the fans themselves. Yeah, TB need to "send a message" for the next game, so the fans of both teams get so wrapped up in "who did what and how long he was penalized" instead of just talking about how the Lightning got beat....bad.
I've been struck at how many cheap shots I've seen during the playoffs (and I don't profess to have seen nearly all the games). If the best of the best in hockey resort to stuff like that (Hatcher, Numinen, Antropov) what does that say? You can't even play the game w/o that element - even in the playoffs?
Oops, sorry for the tangent, but I really think some of the complaining about hockey getting no respect is because the league and the players bring it upon themselves.
nccanes
05-12-2004, 02:46 PM
Some people have focused on how it's irresponsible to offer free beer.
Today, Bucci pointed out how few people even took advantage of that, and hoped they would win the Cup for the sake of some more fans.
I'm confused. Bucci hopes they win the Cup for sake of more fans? Isn't that the hope of every club not named Detroit, Toronto, Montreal, Colorado and a few others? And what does that have to do with the free beer? (I think I must have missed something in there.)
Personally, I don't see how it's stupid. It's the exact same offer -- you can get beer -- you just don't have to pay. If getting it for free sheds a bad light on the fans, then that's just unfortunate.
It's not the exact same offer. It's free beer - unlimited. And other than being no fun for the other fans sitting next to the drunks (courtesy of the Lightning), those drunks might get behind the wheel of a car.
Yes, personal responsibility always comes into play, but it's very surprising that the Lightning would even come close to putting themselves at risk.
With all the multitude of other ways to promote the season tickets, it was a poor choice.
I might be going off on a tangent, but I think the NHL shoots itself in the foot sooo often. Something like this makes sports headlines, the AP wire, etc. If you go to a Tampa Bay message board today or yesterday, you'll see multitudes of posts and many threads about the "cheap shots", Brashear should be suspended, Markov was cheap for hitting Sydor while he was down, etc. When fans get caught up so many things that have nothing to do with scoring goals or defending nets, how can the NHL and its fans complain about the "bad image" the sport has. It's perpetuated by the players and the fans themselves. Yeah, TB need to "send a message" for the next game, so the fans of both teams get so wrapped up in "who did what and how long he was penalized" instead of just talking about how the Lightning got beat....bad.
I've been struck at how many cheap shots I've seen during the playoffs (and I don't profess to have seen nearly all the games). If the best of the best in hockey resort to stuff like that (Hatcher, Numinen, Antropov) what does that say? You can't even play the game w/o that element - even in the playoffs?
Oops, sorry for the tangent, but I really think some of the complaining about hockey getting no respect is because the league and the players bring it upon themselves.
nccanes
05-12-2004, 02:48 PM
I'm not usually this dumb, but am confused about the specifics.
Was the offer for one playoff game, if you placed a deposit on season tickets.. or for every game next year, if you were a season ticket holder.. or both? And if both, which one was nixed?
I'm sure the Lightning are thrilled at the vagueness of the original article (which led us all to believe it was an ongoing perk "for" STHs), but I believe it was "put down $100 for next season's tickets and drink free beer for the remainder of this game" and it was going to be promo'd at the rest of the playoff games.
nccanes
05-12-2004, 02:48 PM
I'm not usually this dumb, but am confused about the specifics.
Was the offer for one playoff game, if you placed a deposit on season tickets.. or for every game next year, if you were a season ticket holder.. or both? And if both, which one was nixed?
I'm sure the Lightning are thrilled at the vagueness of the original article (which led us all to believe it was an ongoing perk "for" STHs), but I believe it was "put down $100 for next season's tickets and drink free beer for the remainder of this game" and it was going to be promo'd at the rest of the playoff games.
stewart123
05-12-2004, 03:00 PM
Thanks. The Canes gave me 3 tickets to each of the 2002 Finals games for a somewhat larger deposit. Tampa offers beer.. a lager deposit?
stewart123
05-12-2004, 03:00 PM
Thanks. The Canes gave me 3 tickets to each of the 2002 Finals games for a somewhat larger deposit. Tampa offers beer.. a lager deposit?
Guyute
05-12-2004, 03:07 PM
maybe not a well-thought out plan, true. however, every owner/gm in the league are trying to come up with ways to secure ticket holders for next season.
The NHL, if something is not fixed, and fast, is a dying beast. whether or not you want to believe that, it's in Serious danger. I honestly could care less HOW they're getting more people to buy into the teams, as long as they do.
my 2 swills of mead.
Guyute
05-12-2004, 03:07 PM
maybe not a well-thought out plan, true. however, every owner/gm in the league are trying to come up with ways to secure ticket holders for next season.
The NHL, if something is not fixed, and fast, is a dying beast. whether or not you want to believe that, it's in Serious danger. I honestly could care less HOW they're getting more people to buy into the teams, as long as they do.
my 2 swills of mead.
SouthernHockeyChick
05-12-2004, 03:24 PM
The NHL, if something is not fixed, and fast, is a dying beast. whether or not you want to believe that, it's in Serious danger. I honestly could care less HOW they're getting more people to buy into the teams, as long as they do.
I agree completely. But it certainly doesn't help attendance if a large percentage of the people putting down deposits get killed on the way home because of the irresponsibilty of the partakers of this particular offer. I think free hotdogs and sodas would probably be equally effective.
One game, enh, not really a big deal. If this were an ongoing thing it would be a HUGE problem, IMO. People drink too damn much as it is at hockey games. If you wanna drink, fine. Even if you wanna make an ass of yourself, I can live with it. But when you drink and then put yourself behind the wheel of a car I have a problem. Free beer = way more drunk drivers, IMO. Something none of us need.
tommy, I can perfectly illustrate the reason this matters. I love beer but I don't drink at hockey games for two simple reasons: I can't afford it/don't want to pay the prices they ask and I know I have to drive home and don't want to do that after having a few beers. Most people could care less about driving home after a few beers. Now, subtract the money issue and what do you get?
SouthernHockeyChick
05-12-2004, 03:24 PM
The NHL, if something is not fixed, and fast, is a dying beast. whether or not you want to believe that, it's in Serious danger. I honestly could care less HOW they're getting more people to buy into the teams, as long as they do.
I agree completely. But it certainly doesn't help attendance if a large percentage of the people putting down deposits get killed on the way home because of the irresponsibilty of the partakers of this particular offer. I think free hotdogs and sodas would probably be equally effective.
One game, enh, not really a big deal. If this were an ongoing thing it would be a HUGE problem, IMO. People drink too damn much as it is at hockey games. If you wanna drink, fine. Even if you wanna make an ass of yourself, I can live with it. But when you drink and then put yourself behind the wheel of a car I have a problem. Free beer = way more drunk drivers, IMO. Something none of us need.
tommy, I can perfectly illustrate the reason this matters. I love beer but I don't drink at hockey games for two simple reasons: I can't afford it/don't want to pay the prices they ask and I know I have to drive home and don't want to do that after having a few beers. Most people could care less about driving home after a few beers. Now, subtract the money issue and what do you get?
nohuiam
05-12-2004, 03:32 PM
Hi. My name is Lee, and I'm an alcoholic.
As many things that can and will go wrong with a promotion like this, I'm all for it. I spend $40 on beer at every game I go to so it would save me a bundle. I drink in the parking lot, I drink at the game. I'm gonna drink my share anyway, it might as well be free.
I could also afford season tickets. Think of it this way... I stand out front and find somebody willing to part with their tickets cheap to every game I go to. This is to save money to buy beer. Okay, now the beer is free. I can buy tickets at regular price and save money!
How bout the part where the Canes would pay for my cab ride home if I'm too drunk to drive? That seals it right there. I'm definitely in.
nohuiam
05-12-2004, 03:32 PM
Hi. My name is Lee, and I'm an alcoholic.
As many things that can and will go wrong with a promotion like this, I'm all for it. I spend $40 on beer at every game I go to so it would save me a bundle. I drink in the parking lot, I drink at the game. I'm gonna drink my share anyway, it might as well be free.
I could also afford season tickets. Think of it this way... I stand out front and find somebody willing to part with their tickets cheap to every game I go to. This is to save money to buy beer. Okay, now the beer is free. I can buy tickets at regular price and save money!
How bout the part where the Canes would pay for my cab ride home if I'm too drunk to drive? That seals it right there. I'm definitely in.
nccanes
05-12-2004, 03:54 PM
How bout the part where the Canes would pay for my cab ride home if I'm too drunk to drive? That seals it right there. I'm definitely in.
If the Canes required the "free drinkers" to arrive and depart in a cab, maybe that would prevent people from saying "I'm fine, I can drive" and getting behind the wheel. Then the "only" complaint would be the totally drunk fans that the rest of us have to put up with.
We're speaking in hypotheticals now since we all know that the offer was not ongoing in nature.
If the teams have to stoop to this level of promotion, then NHL really is in deep doo doo. Hopefully this is just one stupid decision by some marketing wonk in Tampa. And I bet that wonk is having a pretty rotten day. :beatup:
nccanes
05-12-2004, 03:54 PM
How bout the part where the Canes would pay for my cab ride home if I'm too drunk to drive? That seals it right there. I'm definitely in.
If the Canes required the "free drinkers" to arrive and depart in a cab, maybe that would prevent people from saying "I'm fine, I can drive" and getting behind the wheel. Then the "only" complaint would be the totally drunk fans that the rest of us have to put up with.
We're speaking in hypotheticals now since we all know that the offer was not ongoing in nature.
If the teams have to stoop to this level of promotion, then NHL really is in deep doo doo. Hopefully this is just one stupid decision by some marketing wonk in Tampa. And I bet that wonk is having a pretty rotten day. :beatup:
Having just been to a game in their arena...
TB's stadium is in the middle of the city, with bars and restaurants all around. I don't think offering free beer is as potentially irresponsible as doing so at an arena like the RBC, where driving directly after the game (other than hanging around the parking lot) is inevitable. Anyhow, their beer isn't nearly as bad as the RBC... 25 oz oil cans of Labatt's for $8, and domestics are cheaper.
I think someone who would drink and drive would do so regardless of the price (or lack thereof) of the beer, but that is just my opinion.
-Kat
Having just been to a game in their arena...
TB's stadium is in the middle of the city, with bars and restaurants all around. I don't think offering free beer is as potentially irresponsible as doing so at an arena like the RBC, where driving directly after the game (other than hanging around the parking lot) is inevitable. Anyhow, their beer isn't nearly as bad as the RBC... 25 oz oil cans of Labatt's for $8, and domestics are cheaper.
I think someone who would drink and drive would do so regardless of the price (or lack thereof) of the beer, but that is just my opinion.
-Kat
talkingcanes
05-12-2004, 06:19 PM
I think someone who would drink and drive would do so regardless of the price of beer, but that doesn't mean you have to hand them free ammunition. Someone who is stupid and irresponsible enough to drink and drive probably doesn't have the good sense to go somewhere else to sober up before driving so you have to rely on them having friends with the balls to take their keys. I don't think that happens very often either because people don't want to make someone mad at them :roll:
Drinking and driving is something for which I have NO tolerance. I'd call the police on my closest relative and dearest friend if they wouldn't give me their keys.
talkingcanes
05-12-2004, 06:19 PM
I think someone who would drink and drive would do so regardless of the price of beer, but that doesn't mean you have to hand them free ammunition. Someone who is stupid and irresponsible enough to drink and drive probably doesn't have the good sense to go somewhere else to sober up before driving so you have to rely on them having friends with the balls to take their keys. I don't think that happens very often either because people don't want to make someone mad at them :roll:
Drinking and driving is something for which I have NO tolerance. I'd call the police on my closest relative and dearest friend if they wouldn't give me their keys.
I have no tolerance for it either. But does that mean you should take away my enjoyment, just because someone might abuse the system? Doesn't seem quite fair to me... punish the responsible for the irresponsible person's actions.
-Kat
I have no tolerance for it either. But does that mean you should take away my enjoyment, just because someone might abuse the system? Doesn't seem quite fair to me... punish the responsible for the irresponsible person's actions.
-Kat
nccanes
05-12-2004, 09:24 PM
It's the same reason that (most) companies no longer have open bars at holiday parties or corporate events.
I don't see the discontinuance of this promotion as infringing on anyone's ability to have fun or enjoy a few drinks.
It would be great if everyone in the world had the amount of personal responsibility to prevent every death/injury caused by driving under the influence, but we all know that's not the case. Encouraging/enabling the misuse/abuse of alcohol is not something any company or organization should want to be promoting. JMO.
nccanes
05-12-2004, 09:24 PM
It's the same reason that (most) companies no longer have open bars at holiday parties or corporate events.
I don't see the discontinuance of this promotion as infringing on anyone's ability to have fun or enjoy a few drinks.
It would be great if everyone in the world had the amount of personal responsibility to prevent every death/injury caused by driving under the influence, but we all know that's not the case. Encouraging/enabling the misuse/abuse of alcohol is not something any company or organization should want to be promoting. JMO.
talkingcanes
05-13-2004, 06:04 AM
I have no tolerance for it either. But does that mean you should take away my enjoyment, just because someone might abuse the system? Doesn't seem quite fair to me... punish the responsible for the irresponsible person's actions.
-Kat
I'm not advocating that you shouldn't be able to buy beer if you are old enough. you got money, they got beer, have at it.
talkingcanes
05-13-2004, 06:04 AM
I have no tolerance for it either. But does that mean you should take away my enjoyment, just because someone might abuse the system? Doesn't seem quite fair to me... punish the responsible for the irresponsible person's actions.
-Kat
I'm not advocating that you shouldn't be able to buy beer if you are old enough. you got money, they got beer, have at it.
Free food and soft drinks would benefit the Canes organization most. With the number of children that come to the games, I think it would be the wisest choice. And if groups got this or a discount, I think attendance would definitely pick up. I don't have kids but I know they can eat lots of "expensive" food at the arena.. ;)
Free food and soft drinks would benefit the Canes organization most. With the number of children that come to the games, I think it would be the wisest choice. And if groups got this or a discount, I think attendance would definitely pick up. I don't have kids but I know they can eat lots of "expensive" food at the arena.. ;)
caniac369
05-13-2004, 08:32 AM
But doesn't the mental image of Stormy with one of those beer despensing hats as an advertisement for the promotion just make ya wanna smile?? :D
caniac369
05-13-2004, 08:32 AM
But doesn't the mental image of Stormy with one of those beer despensing hats as an advertisement for the promotion just make ya wanna smile?? :D
But doesn't the mental image of Stormy with one of those beer despensing hats as an advertisement for the promotion just make ya wanna smile?? :D
Where would they get one big enough to fit THAT head?? :laugh: :lol:
But doesn't the mental image of Stormy with one of those beer despensing hats as an advertisement for the promotion just make ya wanna smile?? :D
Where would they get one big enough to fit THAT head?? :laugh: :lol:
Guyute
05-13-2004, 09:17 AM
I think it's all a moot point. we've already seen the discounted tickets, if you pay in full. and that's the only discount/benefit/freebie we're going to see.
jmo
Guyute
05-13-2004, 09:17 AM
I think it's all a moot point. we've already seen the discounted tickets, if you pay in full. and that's the only discount/benefit/freebie we're going to see.
jmo
SouthernHockeyChick
05-13-2004, 11:40 AM
Yep, you're certainly right, guy. This isn't going to happen any time soon (probably ever) at Canes games.
Not at Lightning games again, for that matter.
Lightning apologize for beer promotion
Associated Press
5/12/2004
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) - The Tampa Bay Lightning's promotion offering free beer to season ticket buyers drew the ire of safe-driving advocates, and the team said Wednesday it will not offer similar promotions in the future.
During the first Eastern Conference playoff game between the Lightning and the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday, the St. Pete Times Forum's main scoreboard advertised the offer. Those who paid $100 US toward 2004-05 season tickets were eligible for unlimited free beer during the game.
The Lightning clarified their promotion Wednesday, saying the team offered four free coupons - each redeemable for a 12-ounce beer - to those making ticket deposits at Saturday's game only. The organization said the promotion will not be used again.
The coupon could also have been redeemed for soft drinks, the team said.
``The organization apologizes to anyone who was offended or upset by this promotion,'' team president Ron Campbell said in a statement. ``We take alcohol-related matters and the dispensation of alcohol at the St. Pete Times Forum very seriously.''
Police and several area chapters of Mothers Against Drunk Driving said the hockey team's offer was irresponsible.
``Why attach alcohol to a season-ticket plan? It's almost encouraging people to drink more than they should because it is free,'' said Sgt. Chris Velar, who runs the Police Department's drunken driving squad.
About 25 of the 21,000 people at the game signed up for season tickets, said team spokesman Bill Wickett.
People who are already intoxicated aren't served beer and free taxi rides are provided to patrons who believe they have had too much to drink, Wickett said.
Hearing all the details (it wasn't "unlimited" but 4 coupons, it was only one game, and free taxi riders were provided....though perhaps a brethalyzer at the door to decide who takes the taxi would be more appropriate), they handled this about as well as they probably could have. I still think it was ill-advised and I'm glad to know MADD still has some clout. I think a lot of people don't realize that you don't have to be falling down drunk to get in a car and make a mistake. Four beers (that's 48 ounces...most folks wouldn't drink that much Coke in one sitting) certainly slows most people's reaction time greatly. The "Oh, I'm alright to drive" syndrome effects everyone, not just people who make the concious decision to drive drunk.
SouthernHockeyChick
05-13-2004, 11:40 AM
Yep, you're certainly right, guy. This isn't going to happen any time soon (probably ever) at Canes games.
Not at Lightning games again, for that matter.
Lightning apologize for beer promotion
Associated Press
5/12/2004
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) - The Tampa Bay Lightning's promotion offering free beer to season ticket buyers drew the ire of safe-driving advocates, and the team said Wednesday it will not offer similar promotions in the future.
During the first Eastern Conference playoff game between the Lightning and the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday, the St. Pete Times Forum's main scoreboard advertised the offer. Those who paid $100 US toward 2004-05 season tickets were eligible for unlimited free beer during the game.
The Lightning clarified their promotion Wednesday, saying the team offered four free coupons - each redeemable for a 12-ounce beer - to those making ticket deposits at Saturday's game only. The organization said the promotion will not be used again.
The coupon could also have been redeemed for soft drinks, the team said.
``The organization apologizes to anyone who was offended or upset by this promotion,'' team president Ron Campbell said in a statement. ``We take alcohol-related matters and the dispensation of alcohol at the St. Pete Times Forum very seriously.''
Police and several area chapters of Mothers Against Drunk Driving said the hockey team's offer was irresponsible.
``Why attach alcohol to a season-ticket plan? It's almost encouraging people to drink more than they should because it is free,'' said Sgt. Chris Velar, who runs the Police Department's drunken driving squad.
About 25 of the 21,000 people at the game signed up for season tickets, said team spokesman Bill Wickett.
People who are already intoxicated aren't served beer and free taxi rides are provided to patrons who believe they have had too much to drink, Wickett said.
Hearing all the details (it wasn't "unlimited" but 4 coupons, it was only one game, and free taxi riders were provided....though perhaps a brethalyzer at the door to decide who takes the taxi would be more appropriate), they handled this about as well as they probably could have. I still think it was ill-advised and I'm glad to know MADD still has some clout. I think a lot of people don't realize that you don't have to be falling down drunk to get in a car and make a mistake. Four beers (that's 48 ounces...most folks wouldn't drink that much Coke in one sitting) certainly slows most people's reaction time greatly. The "Oh, I'm alright to drive" syndrome effects everyone, not just people who make the concious decision to drive drunk.
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