Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SUNDAY, August 20, 1995                   TAG: 9508210096
SECTION: SPORTS                    PAGE: B-3   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

AVALANCHE'S GM GETS HIS TURN AT BAT

Try as we might, we realize we can't please everyone. What our staff accomplished from the time of the official announcement [of the opening of Salem Memorial Baseball Stadium] on Aug.7 was unbelievable. Our staff worked practically around the clock to make the transition. Sure, there were a few glitches, as can be expected, but it wasn't from a lack of effort. We spent a small fortune on advertising, mailed letters and called as many people as possible to let them know about the situation.

We required a specific ``Opening Night'' ticket to try to avoid overselling the stadium. We apologize that not everyone was accommodated, but we felt that if we let too many in, we would risk making our grand opening uncomfortable for everyone.

We remember where we came from. How could we ever forget? We were the people pulling the tarp during those four-hour rain delays so our fans could see the conclusion of the games. We also sat through all those lopsided losses and howling winds. Nobody has worked any harder than my staff to make professional baseball in Salem a first-class family event.

I resent the statement made about never thanking fans. I have spent the better part of the past 10 seasons standing at the main gate at Municipal Field thanking fans for attending and wishing them good night, as have my fellow employees. I'm surprised that people claiming to be our two biggest fans would not be aware of this.

I'm also surprised that our two biggest fans would not have known what at least 6,421 others knew: to hold onto or purchase ``Opening Night'' tickets.

Despite their claim that they would no longer support the Avalanche in any way. I recollect seeing both young ladies in attendance several nights ago. Where they attend games certainly is their prerogative, but we feel that the majority of our real fans, our truly loyal fans, were in attendance Monday night [Aug.7] and were not complaining.

Sam Lazzaro

Vice president and general manager, Salem Avalanche