One of the hot topics around the Tampa Bay metro region right now is the Tampa Bay Rays proposed stadium in St. Petersburg, Florida. I’m not going to bother getting into the arguments but after reading a few knee-jerk reactions and misinformation about the plans… Well, I felt it was important that people actually familiarize themselves with why the Dome was built in St. Petersburg in the first place.

I read Stadium for Rent by local author Bob Andelman during high school and it showed the battle — political and logistical – to get Major League Baseball in town.

It’s out of print but there are copies for sale out there, also the entire thing is available at the above link. It’s very much worth a read for both pro and anti-stadium people. I oppose the stadium for economic issues (the timing sucks, Stu) as well as logistical reasons, but it’s important to be armed with the facts instead of making up hearsay or misconstruing what is really going on.

I plan on buying a used copy of Stadium For Rent for quick reference in the future. I’ve held it in high regard long enough….

Paythe Rays is what Charlie Hamilton had to sum up his experience at Tropicana Field. Hamilton happens to be biking to every single major league ballpark to raise money for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute…

So instead of donating tickets or being treated special — the Rays made it impossible for him to get tickets, gave him a run around and shitty service to boot. And people ask me why I hate this team? :rolleyes

If you’re a baseball fan, Hamilton’s cause is a notable one. Make sure you check out his page and his schedule and route map and perchance help him along on his quest… or better yet — join him for a day at the ballpark.