Welcome Quad Cities fans: A Flames primer

[Reggie Dunlop]

Here's an excellent player breakdown of last season's Knights (http://forum.calgarypuck.com/showthread.php?t=42492)

Some of those players will return.

In addition, you could be seeing the likes of some Flames prospects graduated from junior hockey.

Goaltenders

Matt Keetley
Kevin Lalande

Defense

Matt Pelech
Gord Baldwin
Brad Cole

Forwards

Daniel Ryder
JD Watt
Brett Sutter

[photon]

Lol I was just creating this thread! We've had a lot of people register today from that area, so a welcome thread is appropriate.

[Reggie Dunlop]

In the next few years, Quad Cities fans should see some excellent young goaltenders in particular. Leland "Napoleon Dynamite" Irving is another year away, and he's considered the most promising.

[Reggie Dunlop]

The biggest change on the AHL blueline next season will be size. All the incoming defenceman are strappin' big lads around 6'3" - 6'4".

Some skill in the forward ranks will come via Dan Ryder. Watt and Sutter (yeah, the General Manager's kid) are strong two-way players.

[Reggie Dunlop]

The Flames farm team for the last few years has been one of the youngest in the AHL, a trend likely to continue. The team likes to stock the roster with kids who have a NHL future as opposed to minor league lifers.

[Reggie Dunlop]

Oh, and when the Springfield Falcons come to town -- make sure you boo 'em louder than usual.

Buncha greasy no-good varmints they are.

[Drunk Skunk]

Thanks alot for that. What are the chances that Brandon Prust makes the big club next year? Also, is Godard under contract for next season?

[Reggie Dunlop]

Thanks alot for that. What are the chances that Brandon Prust makes the big club next year? Also, is Godard under contract for next season?

Prust stands a good chance of cracking the NHL. If not, he'll definitely be a QC fan favorite.

Godard's contract is up, so who knows. Darryl Sutter is Old School though, so there's likely to be an enforcer on your team. Godard worked out well, so I'd say there's a strong chance he'll re-sign with the organization.

[Azure]

Yes, a very big welcome out to the Quad Cities fans.

Any input on our farm team will ALWAYS be appreciated.

[Drunk Skunk]

I've been looking over the Flames' prospects and draftpicks for a week or so, and it seems that they've extremely solid in the goaltending department. I've also heard some pretty good things about JD Watt, Brad Cole, and Matt Pelech.

[Drunk Skunk]

Yes, a very big welcome out to the Quad Cities fans.

Any input on our farm team will ALWAYS be appreciated.
There's little problem in that. We're a vocal bunch, and I tend to speak my mind. I'll also do my best to have pics up from every home game, and as many away games as I can get to(Which should be quite a bit, so many teams close by)

[Reggie Dunlop]

The Flames formula is strong two-way forwards, mean defensemen and strong goaltending. Don't expect too much in the way of flashy, one-dimensional fancy skaters.

[Drunk Skunk]

That's what I was hoping to hear. I'm not a fan of the really flashy players. Blue collar hockey is what sells here.

[Reggie Dunlop]

There's little problem in that. We're a vocal bunch, and I tend to speak my mind. I'll also do my best to have pics up from every home game, and as many away games as I can get to(Which should be quite a bit, so many teams close by)

That sounds great!

As for speaking your mind, I think you'll find the stereotype of Polite Canadians generally unfounded. Especially 'round here.:cool:

[KootenayFlamesFan]

A big 'hello' to the new QC posters from myself as well.

Really looking forward to all the input you can give us over the season. Our resident Omaha correspondant Tilley was fantastic for dishing out posts and threads about the young lads, so the bar has been set very high........hope you're up to the challenge!

Welcome again, hope you enjoy CP as much as the rest of us do.

[Reggie Dunlop]

That's what I was hoping to hear. I'm not a fan of the really flashy players. Blue collar hockey is what sells here.

Oh, some of the kids do have skill. Gruff ol' coach Ryan McGill however beats the worst excesses out of 'em.

Assistant coach Scotty Allen is the good cop and sounds like Mayor Quimby of the Simpsons.

[Resolute 14]

That sounds great!

As for speaking your mind, I think you'll find the stereotype of Polite Canadians generally unfounded. Especially 'round here.:cool:

I just can't imagine how you could have formed such an opinion. :whistle:

Is now a good time to mention how much J.D. Watt sucks, or should I wait until the next QC Flames thread? ;)

[Drunk Skunk]

I said that wrong, I think. I definately enjoy skilled hockey, but the "Jagr-esque" players have no place on a team that I support, in my opinion. Everything I've seen and heard about the AHL Flames leads me to believe that they'll be very solid for years to come. I also think it says something about the Flames organ-eye-zation that they are dedicated to their younger AHL squad.

[MrMastodonFarm]

Welcome aboard all! Hope lots of you stay signed up and contribute.

Possible players to look forward to seeing in Quad City next year, * next to those who could be in the NHL though

*Nystrom - *Boyd - VanDerGulik
*Prust - *Tarathukin - Chucko
Cam Cunning - Dan Ryder - JD Watt
Ryan Donnaly - Brett Sutter - Tomi Maki
Derek Couture, Warren Peters, Aki Seitsonen,

*Tim Ramholt - Matt Pelech
Gord Baldwin - Tim Hambly
Steve Marr - Brett Palin
Adam Pardy - Brad Cole

In goal
Curtis McElhinney*
Brent Krahn* (UFA though - not sure what will happen with him)
Kevin Lalande
Matt Keetley

Depending though on what happens in terms of free agents in Calgary, McElhinney, Prust, Nystrom, Boyd, Ramholt, Tarathukin all have a good chance to start the year as Calgary Flames.

[Reggie Dunlop]

Darryl Sutter tends to park the first year kids on the farm for the whole season (Dustin Boyd was an exception). By the second year, players are expected to make a bid for injury callup. By the third year, they should be making a strong case for permanent NHL employment.

The Flames had nine AHL callups last season for instance. Oh course, that number will vary according to the injury situation.

[KevanGuy]

Welcome to the board folks. The number of people that have signed up today is a great indication that this was a smart move for the Flames. I think we only had one poster from Lowell and one from Omaha (thanks for everything Clint, I hope you are able to take some road trips).

Many posters here are very interested in the ongoings on the farm so please keep us as updated as you can.

[Drunk Skunk]

I also like how Calgary has already proved they're dedicated to the QC area. During the last high school football season, a local player broke his neck and is paralized from the neck down for the rest of his life as a result. The Mallards raised $10,000 for him. Well, today was when his house was special house was built by Habitat for Humanity. During the press conference, Ken King announced that the Flames would be matching that $10,000 raised by the Mallards. That really impressed me.

[Reggie Dunlop]

I also like how Calgary has already proved they're dedicated to the QC area. During the last high school football season, a local player broke his neck and is paralized from the neck down for the rest of his life as a result. The Mallards raised $10,000 for him. Well, today was when his house was special house was built by Habitat for Humanity. During the press conference, Ken King announced that the Flames would be matching that $10,000 raised by the Mallards. That really impressed me.

That's typical of the Flames organization. They've always been very philanthropic.

[MrMastodonFarm]

During the press conference, Ken King announced that the Flames would be matching that $10,000 raised by the Mallards. That really impressed me.
Ken King is a great business leader for the Flames, I don't think I've ever meet anyone as enthused and as hard working about what he does. The word class act gets thrown around alot, but Ken King and co. are truely class acts. Just my little sidebar there.

[Drunk Skunk]

Welcome to the board folks. The number of people that have signed up today is a great indication that this was a smart move for the Flames. I think we only had one poster from Lowell and one from Omaha (thanks for everything Clint, I hope you are able to take some road trips).

Many posters here are very interested in the ongoings on the farm so please keep us as updated as you can.
This is exactly what QC hockey needed. I've heard from quite a few people already that they're coming back. The ownership group here is dedicated to their fans. The most obvious proof of that is the fact that ticket prices will go down from last year - my season ticket(I sit in the lower bowl, three rows off the glass) is $380. That's under 10 bucks a game for AHL hockey. There's not a better deal around, as far as I'm concerned.

[NSFL]

my season ticket(I sit in the lower bowl, three rows off the glass) is $380. That's under 10 bucks a game for AHL hockey. There's not a better deal around, as far as I'm concerned.

:w00t: Way to be a hockey fan without breaking the budget...

Calgary Hitmen seasons tickets aren't even that low.

[ichbincarrie]

I also like how Calgary has already proved they're dedicated to the QC area. During the last high school football season, a local player broke his neck and is paralized from the neck down for the rest of his life as a result. The Mallards raised $10,000 for him. Well, today was when his house was special house was built by Habitat for Humanity. During the press conference, Ken King announced that the Flames would be matching that $10,000 raised by the Mallards. That really impressed me.

I am from the quad Cities as well. This is a great place to live. As for Travis hearn (the injured player) i also am really impressed. This is really a great community. if people want to read the story in Hearn, they can go to www.qctimes.com .

I can not wait for the season to begin:)

[jdoggivjc]

It's great welcoming the Flames to the community!

I'm not sure you'll ever QUITE convert me from the TB Lightning (and I'll prolly get a lot of flack for that, but I've been a fan since day 1), But it's more than likely a Calgary Flames jersey is now entering my wardrobe (and my wife will probably proudly wear it at nite... ;))

It's a little sad we won't be carrying on the Mallards name, but new team, new tradition!

[Biff]

Welcome aboard QC crew. You don't have any silly habits like spelling your city or state name backwards do you? HATED that about Omaha. Welcome to the fantastic world of Flames hockey, albeit the pre-Flames variety. By the sounds of things, it seems like the baby Flames have landed in a great spot. Here's looking forward to a great relationship between the fans and the QC and a kick-butt first season.

[jdoggivjc]

Welcome aboard QC crew. You don't have any silly habits like spelling your city or state name backwards do you? HATED that about Omaha. Welcome to the fantastic world of Flames hockey, albeit the pre-Flames variety. By the sounds of things, it seems like the baby Flames have landed in a great spot. Here's looking forward to a great relationship between the fans and the QC and a kick-butt first season.

About all you'll see is QC, and from time to time D-port. That's about it (you gotta keep in mind that the Omaha crew was from Nebraska. They're a little :whistle:)

[Drunk Skunk]

Nope, can't say that we will be known as the Quad City Enilom Flames. By the way, Biff, I'm stealing your sig and using it as my own :D

Crap, I just thought of something ... I'm going to have to get the Center Ice package next year to watch Flames.

[Biff]

Nope, can't say that we will be known as the Quad City Enilom Flames. By the way, Biff, I'm stealing your sig and using it as my own :D

Help yourself. Share and share alike, I always say.

Also, glad that Enilom is right out.

[Reggie Dunlop]

I just can't imagine how you could have formed such an opinion. :whistle:

Is now a good time to mention how much J.D. Watt sucks, or should I wait until the next QC Flames thread? ;)

Today's a day for official howdy-dos. We"ve got company, Dear.:o

Tomorrow we can go back to our regularly-scheduled throat-throttling.:chair:

[Teal]

The only thing as far as the name goes is that alot of people use "Quad City"
like a plural. EX "What are they doing in Quad City?" Or " We are going to take a road trip to Quad City"

[jdoggivjc]

The only thing as far as the name goes is that alot of people use "Quad City"
like a plural. EX "What are they doing in Quad City?" Or " We are going to take a road trip to Quad City"

It's "Quad Cities" when you refer to the cities (Davenport & Bettendorf, Iowa and Moline & Rock Island, Illinois) or the metro area as a whole, but all of the organizations in the Quad Cities, such as Flames, Mallards, Steamwheelers, the botanical center, etc., uses "Quad City" (well, except for the Swing of the Quad Cities, our baseball team, but 5 years later all of us are still pissed that they changed it from the Quad City River Bandits, the #1 marketed minor league baseball logo in the United States)

So, you would never say "We're going to Quad City." It would be "We're going to the Quad Cities."

Hope that clarifies it...

[jdoggivjc]

Today's a day for official howdy-dos. We"ve got company, Dear.:o

Tomorrow we can go back to our regularly-scheduled throat-throttling.:chair:

Sorry about that... I've visited Omaha before and it's a very nice city. That being said, if you've ever seen the movie Annapolis, where what's his name says "You're my Mississippi. I'm from Arkansas, and the only thing that prevents Arkansas from being the worst state in the whole United States is Mississippi." It's one of those kind of things...

And I never meant to rip on the guy from Omaha (sorry, haven't learned your name yet, I'm horrible with names, but I'll learn it ASAP). I'm not mean spirited by nature. Just very sarcastic and facetious.

[Biff]

Ahhhh....so as a geographical destination, it is Quad Cities but as a descriptor for a proper name, Quad City is both acceptable and more common. In the same way that, as a destination, it's Edmonton but as a descriptor for a proper name it's ######bags.

[JiriHrdina]

Great to see so many new members! Remember folks we LOVE to hear about the kids on the farm. If you have news/observations - post them! The more the better!

[NSFL]

Sorry about that... I've visited Omaha before and it's a very nice city. That being said, if you've ever seen the movie Annapolis, where what's his name says "You're my Mississippi. I'm from Arkansas, and the only thing that prevents Arkansas from being the worst state in the whole United States is Mississippi." It's one of those kind of things...

And I never meant to rip on the guy from Omaha (sorry, haven't learned your name yet, I'm horrible with names, but I'll learn it ASAP). I'm not mean spirited by nature. Just very sarcastic and facetious.

I'm pretty sure they're not talking about you. :)

The members like to get into heated arguments. And I think Reggie likes to poke wild animals for fun. It's darned fun to watch, I tell ya!

[jdoggivjc]

Ahhhh....so as a geographical destination, it is Quad Cities but as a descriptor for a proper name, Quad City is both acceptable and more common. In the same way that, as a destination, it's Edmonton but as a descriptor for a proper name it's ######bags.

:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:
man, every second i'm been on this board i'm more and more glad the new local ownership decided to pass on the oilers and wait and finally agreed to go with the flames.:nod: you guy's crack my s*** up!!!

[Drunk Skunk]

:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:
man, every second i'm been on this board i'm more and more glad the new local ownership decided to pass on the oilers and wait and finally agreed to go with the flames.:nod: you guy's crack my s*** up!!!

Reminds you of Rockford a bit, doesn't it? :lol:

[Teal]

:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:
man, every second i'm been on this board i'm more and more glad the new local ownership decided to pass on the oilers and wait and finally agreed to go with the flames.:nod: you guy's crack my s*** up!!!

There is no way Id ever wear oilers ANYTHING. only thing worse would be Red Wings. I was in the Market for a Flames Jersey a few years ago, But they Got rid of Drury.:mad:

[Reggie Dunlop]

You can now add Springfield to the list of Stinktowns.

Stupid Oilers!

[Biff]

Cheers, jdoggivjc. Words cannot adequately explain the degree to which you dodged the proverbial bullet. Anything associated with the Grease is instantly so irrevocably tainted that a toxic waste dump would be a significant step up. Imagine the deepest, most inbred hind quarter of Kentucky and marry it to the ugliest trailer park in Arkansas. The Oilers would be their children.

Conversely, the QCs, can now rejoice in being in the center of all light and goodness and all things Flames. It is a happy place.

[jdoggivjc]

Reminds you of Rockford a bit, doesn't it? :lol:

eh, reminds me more of Flint from the old days, but since we've just left them behind, I guess I'll have to settle for hating on Rockford :poo::boo:

[Reggie Dunlop]

The Flames prospects and Oilers prospects play a lot of preseason exhibition games. Basically, they bash the hell out of each other. So expect some carry-over of hostilities when the Springfield Falcons come to town.

[Teal]

Flint Mich. Tripple think bullet proof glass at the counter of the super8. in what was called the good part of town.

They put up fences to keep the eyesores from being seen on the roadside.
Kinda what like Galesburg will be in 3 more years

[jdoggivjc]

The Flames prospects and Oilers prospects play a lot of preseason exhibition games. Basically, they bash the hell out of each other. So expect some carry-over of hostilities when the Springfield Falcons come to town.

So, in other words, it might be like the early days of QC Mallards hockey when we roughed up everyone in the Colonial/United Hockey League (everyone liked to call us dirty - if memory serves we had a guy suspended for nearly half the season for his play). This could be fun... :nod:

[Teal]

I just hope that the Players get the memo about how QC and Peoria have a bitter rivalry. and wern't even in the same league. I will be there for that one. even if I have no sick time. I am going to that game.

[Drunk Skunk]

I just hope that the Players get the memo about how QC and Peoria have a bitter rivalry. and wern't even in the same league. I will be there for that one. even if I have no sick time. I am going to that game.
I don't think that will be a problem, considering they will probably see each other 15 times in the regular season. Not to mention some pre-season games.

[Sidney Crosby's Hat]

The Flames prospects and Oilers prospects play a lot of preseason exhibition games. Basically, they bash the hell out of each other. So expect some carry-over of hostilities when the Springfield Falcons come to town.

Unfortunately I doubt Springfield will be heading out west next season.

[Reggie Dunlop]

I just hope that the Players get the memo about how QC and Peoria have a bitter rivalry. and wern't even in the same league. I will be there for that one. even if I have no sick time. I am going to that game.

Well, you're in luck then.

Omaha Knights didn't like the Rivermen much. I don't think the move will effect them

[Reggie Dunlop]

Unfortunately I doubt Springfield will be heading out west next season.

Well, there goes my "Mullet Night" promotion idea.:whaa:

[the-rasta-masta]

Great logo in your avatar Teal. That would be pretty cool if they actually used that one.

[kremb]

There is no way Id ever wear oilers ANYTHING. only thing worse would be Red Wings. I was in the Market for a Flames Jersey a few years ago, But they Got rid of Drury.:mad:


I'm really diggin your avatar. ANY chance that is going to be the logo? Welcome to the board.

[jdoggivjc]

Kerr is saying on Fan960 that the Mallard will be incorporated into the new team's logo.

I guess rumor is it's going to be a version of one of our old logos. So many of us locally are attached to the Mallards and the logo they probably want to carry something over to tie the QC tradition into the new team (being the local's first experience with hockey. me on the other hand, originally from Long Island, NY...)

[Reggie Dunlop]

I guess rumor is it's going to be a version of one of our old logos. So many of us locally are attached to the Mallards and the logo they probably want to carry something over to tie the QC tradition into the new team (being the local's first experience with hockey. me on the other hand, originally from Long Island, NY...)

The mallard could end up as a shoulder patch. I think Fan960 announcers were using the terms logo/uniform interchangably.

Guess we'll see.

[Temporary_User]

Welcome everyone!
reading the season ticket price makes me jealous!

I couldnt read the entire thread, but I have a question:
How did everyone come to find CP? it seems to me most people would find the calgaryflames.com message board first.

[Dion]

Welcome aboard QC fans!

[JerzeeGirl]

Welcome aboard to all the new folks from the QC! :cool:

I love what I've been reading and have to say it's refreshing to see some interest from the new home for the farm team - as much as I'll miss Tilley's reports from Omaha, there didn't seem to be much interest out that way for the Knights.

And Teal, I completely agree about the logo in your avatar - that kicks @ss!:yay:

[QuadCityImages]

I couldnt read the entire thread, but I have a question:
How did everyone come to find CP? it seems to me most people would find the calgaryflames.com message board first.

In the comments section of this article (http://www.qctimes.com/articles/2007/05/24/news/local/doc4655b49586b66111164666.txt) in the QCTimes, "someguy51" mentioned this website. I also mentioned it on my blog, but I dunno if anyone saw it there first.

[chris lindberg]

A Google search of Calgary Flames has CalgaryPuck on the 4th page at #34, I just happened to come across it too, someday, somehow

Welcome to all the new posters!

[jam26]

A Google search of Calgary Flames has CalgaryPuck on the 4th page at #34, I just happened to come across it too, someday, somehow

Welcome to all the new posters!
But a search for 'Calgary Flames message board' has it as #2. That's how I found it several years ago.

[Tilley]

It's great to see all the people from the Quad Cities stopping by and introducing themselves on CP. Welcome! There was never this kind of excitement in Omaha about the Knights. While I'm disappointed the team is gone, I would rather have the team somewhere it is appreciated rather than ignored.

I look forward to discussing the development of guys like Ryder, Baldwin, and Keetley with our new brethren. I've already scouted out the fastest way from Omaha to Moline and warned the Mrs. about the increased number of road trips. I'm just hoping there will be seats left for us when we get there.

[Flame On]

Welcome to all. And I love Drunk Skunk's sig BBQ quote! :D
Can't wait for pics and such, even the arena sounds better. Has a power ring and bigger capacity etc.

[Drunk Skunk]

It's great to see all the people from the Quad Cities stopping by and introducing themselves on CP. Welcome! There was never this kind of excitement in Omaha about the Knights. While I'm disappointed the team is gone, I would rather have the team somewhere it is appreciated rather than ignored.

I look forward to discussing the development of guys like Ryder, Baldwin, and Keetley with our new brethren. I've already scouted out the fastest way from Omaha to Moline and warned the Mrs. about the increased number of road trips. I'm just hoping there will be seats left for us when we get there.
You're more then welcome in QC any time! It's nice to see an Omaha fan thats seems to be happy for Quad City, most are bitter(which I can understand). Omaha is about five hours, if I remember right. It's been a while since I've been through there. The good thing is that you get on I-80, and you're in Moline ... there's very little worry about getting lost :D

Welcome to all. And I love Drunk Skunk's sig BBQ quote! :D
Can't wait for pics and such, even the arena sounds better. Has a power ring and bigger capacity etc.
Thank Biff for that one. I just took a little poetic license with it! Also, I don't know if I posted the link or here or not, but Here are my pictures from the press conference yesterday. (http://%5BU)

[Hoody]

Nope, can't say that we will be known as the Quad City Enilom Flames. By the way, Biff, I'm stealing your sig and using it as my own :D

Crap, I just thought of something ... I'm going to have to get the Center Ice package next year to watch Flames.


I thought of the same thing. If I can see some our guys playing on TV, I'm going to do it.

Hoody

[Drunk Skunk]

Hoody, how frickin' cool is it that we'll be able to see some of the kids here up in the big show? I remember all the hype when Jean-Guy Trudel played a couple games with the Coyotes a few years ago. People are going to go absolutely nuts about this.

I should also add, to show everyone how excited the QC area is about this, that this was the front page story in both newspapers today. It tops what has been the lead story for a couple of months.

[Hoody]

Hoody, how frickin' cool is it that we'll be able to see some of the kids here up in the big show? I remember all the hype when Jean-Guy Trudel played a couple games with the Coyotes a few years ago. People are going to go absolutely nuts about this.

I should also add, to show everyone how excited the QC area is about this, that this was the front page story in both newspapers today. It tops what has been the lead story for a couple of months.

Heck, we were happy to have a player stick in the AHL after being with us. Cam Severson skating in the NHL play-offs with Anaheim in '03. You would have thought that the Mallards were playing for Lord Stanley's Challis.

Hoody

[Flashpoint]

Welcome to all the new Quad City fans. Things are pretty quiet around here right now, but they'll pick up around the time of the draft.

[J pold]

Welcome QC fans!

[OldSam]

This interest from QC is awesome! Tilley was such a great Omaha correspondent, I look forward to hearing about the Baby Flames from all the QC guys posting.

Welcome to the Flames family!

[HitterD]

Welcome new fans!

I'm looking forward to all your comments throughout the season. You're gonna have a great team to watch, for sure.

[jdoggivjc]

The mallard could end up as a shoulder patch. I think Fan960 announcers were using the terms logo/uniform interchangably.

Guess we'll see.

I was thinking that the Calagy logo would be the shoulder patch, considering that's what they did in Omaha and the Flames have a huge stake in ownership in the Quad Cities. Also, the majority ofthe teams in the AHL use the parent organization's logo as the shoulder patch.

As far as I can tell, the only AHL teams that DON'T use the parent's logo for a shoulder patch are Chicago, Grand Rapids, Lowell, Manchester, Manitoba, Milwaukee, Norfolk, Philadelphia, Rochester, and Springfield.

I guess there's precedent for our own shoulder patch. I'm just looking forward to them releasing the jerseys and me spending some $$$

[QCPuckFan]

Another QC fan here, standing up to be counted...

I'm pumped. I'm ready for AHL hockey. C'mon October.

[jdoggivjc]

Thank Biff for that one. I just took a little poetic license with it! Also, I don't know if I posted the link or here or not, but Here are my pictures from the press conference yesterday. (http://public.fotki.com/downstroy/flames/press-conference/)

I'm gonna miss those championship banners, especially the retirement numbers of Topor and McFarlane. O well. We'll just have to replace them very quickly:nod:

[jdoggivjc]

For those that don't quite understand why we like to rip on Rockford, THIS is their logo...

http://theahl.com.ismmedia.com/ISM3/std-content/repos/Top/News-2/rfd_286.jpg

[jdoggivjc]

I think it's also really sad they haven't posted the news on the AHL website yet...

[Drunk Skunk]

For those that don't quite understand why we like to rip on Rockford, THIS is their logo...

http://theahl.com.ismmedia.com/ISM3/std-content/repos/Top/News-2/rfd_286.jpg
You left out the fact that they have pig butt patches on their shoulders.

[Hoody]

I'm gonna miss those championship banners, especially the retirement numbers of Topor and McFarlane. O well. We'll just have to replace them very quickly:nod:

I read somewhere amongst all the articles in the papers that the Championship banners, and Topor and Mac's retired number banners would remain, but the Tarry Cup banners would come down. I think that Ken King said it.

Hoody

[jdoggivjc]

You left out the fact that they have pig butt patches on their shoulders.

you're right, i forgot all about that... here's their jersey

http://www.icehogs.com/photos/021607/images/DSC_0062.jpg

pretty ASSinine, if you know what I mean ;)

[jdoggivjc]

I read somewhere amongst all the articles in the papers that the Championship banners, and Topor and Mac's retired number banners would remain, but the Tarry Cup banners would come down. I think that Ken King said it.

Hoody

It's good news we're at least gonna give the recognition nod to the Mallards. I'd be ok with them even condensing the Colonial Cup banners to one (to make room for all the Calder Cups we're gonna win ;)). I think it'd be especially cool if we kept #22 and #77 retired with the QC Flames (I highly doubt that will happen though and I don't expect it to either).

[Lanny_MacDonald]

Wow, this is incredible to see this much support from the Quad City folks just after the announcement! Welcome aboard folks, we certainly look forward to your comments on the team and the players as they develop. The more information the merrier.

[Drunk Skunk]

I know that quite a few cities(Fort Wayne, Muskegon, Kalamazoo, Flint, Port Huron just to name some) still have their former teams' banners in the rafters. I took that shot just in case they decide to take them down. I don't have strong feelings either way about it.

I am disappointed that we won't get to see #12 raised to the rafters, though.

:EDIT:

I should also note - Ken King said yesterday that Coach McGill and assistant coach Sam Allen will be in town next week to look for houses.

[jdoggivjc]

Yeah, we're really gonna miss Nadeau around here. Any way we can talk the Calgary brass to signing Nadeau to a minor league contract to keep him here in the QC? It'd be awesome to keep him around here (and then we WOULD get to raise #12 to the rafters when he's done)

[Drunk Skunk]

The only way I can see Nadeau sticking around is if he's in the front office. He's a great guy, but there's no way he could play at the AHL level. I don't think he would play for UHL Chicago or Bloomington, either. I'd guess that he's done.

[CsInMyBlood]

Yeah this influx of QC'ers is great, especially so early after the announcement.

Welcome!

I already see comments about Ken King, which is no surprise since he is a pure class act...countless stories of Mr. King doing classy things for Flames fans since he arrived here.

Two things to know about him; if he punches you in the arm, he likes you.

The second thing to know, and this is very important...Ken King owns the nacho cheese.

[HitterD]

Two things to know about him; if he punches you in the arm, he likes you.

I think he must like me alot, then. I had a bruise the size of a ritz cracker on my shoulder for about a week.

Seriously, though, he is such a classy guy, and so easily approachable.

[Sidney Crosby's Hat]

Thank Biff for that one. I just took a little poetic license with it! Also, I don't know if I posted the link or here or not, but Here are my pictures from the press conference yesterday. (http://%5BU)

That's crazy how it looks like there was more people at the Quad Cities press conference than at the Predators press conference yesterday.

[Azure]

That's crazy how it looks like there was more people at the Quad Cities press conference than at the Predators press conference yesterday.

:lol:

Yes...this thread is amazing.

I think this move will turn out VERY good.

[Drunk Skunk]

That's crazy how it looks like there was more people at the Quad Cities press conference than at the Predators press conference yesterday.
I'd say there was 200 people there, total. That's not too shabby for a Thursday morning press conference.

[Tacoman]

The next thing we need to find out is how easy is it to get to The QC (I feel kinda hip just typing that) from Calgary. Where's the nearest major airport?

[Drunk Skunk]

The next thing we need to find out is how easy is it to get to The QC (I feel kinda hip just typing that) from Calgary. Where's the nearest major airport?
There you go, see, you're already getting the hang of it :cool:

The Quad City International Airport (http://www.qcairport.com/), it's also in Moline.

[Biff]

QC International airport is, well, right in the QC. That should be pretty convenient for all concerned.

[Hoody]

The next thing we need to find out is how easy is it to get to The QC (I feel kinda hip just typing that) from Calgary. Where's the nearest major airport?

We have daily flights to Chicago (O'Hare), Denver, and Minneapolis. Other flights go out east. I believe there is a daily flight to Vegas starting in the fall, so that might also work if you want to catch a Wranglers game also. Here is the link to our airport.

http://www.qcairport.com/

Hoody

[Hoody]

I just did a one-way ticket on Oct 12 from Calgary to Moline for an Oct 13 QC Flames game (assuming here) and it was $401.21 US inc. taxes via Northwest Air (NWA). You leave Calgary at 1:30 pm arrive in Minneapolis at 5:10 pm (local times), change planes and leave Minneapolis at 6:52 pm and arrive in Moline at 7:57 pm. Not too awful bad. Looks like it would be 3 hours +/- in the air, plus one switch and small layover coming down. Going back would be less time with timezone change. An afternoon or morning trip and you are here. I assume you get a better deal with an agent or Expedia, or even switching airlines. I did NWA only because they flew into Moline.

Hoody

[QCPuckFan]

I think it's also really sad they haven't posted the news on the AHL website yet...


It's pending AHL board of governor's approval today, so they can't really officially announce it yet. Once that formality is out of the way, I'm sure it'll be announced on their site.

[Reggie Dunlop]

No offense, but I wouldn't expect any Mallard player to carry over to the QC Flames. I'm sure some of them are swell guys and all, but you'll soon discover life as an affiliate team where the needs of the parent club supercede all.

Very few QC Flames players will actually be happy to be there for obvious reasons.

Best chance QC folks might have for a hometown hero to cheer is if the Calgary Flames draft an Illinois kid (and I understand the state is a bit of an American hotbed), or perhaps sign a free-agent NCAA grad from one of the region's colleges. That *might* happen at some point in the future.

[Drunk Skunk]

No offense taken. I know some people don't "get" the affiliate thing yet, but I hope they come around. I think it's pretty damned cool to think that players on our team will be called on to fill in, or being groomed to star, at the NHL level. I think it's gonna be pretty cool to be able to point to some pictures hanging in my bar in a couple years, and say I remember seeing these guys before they made it big.

[jdoggivjc]

No offense taken. I know some people don't "get" the affiliate thing yet, but I hope they come around. I think it's pretty damned cool to think that players on our team will be called on to fill in, or being groomed to star, at the NHL level. I think it's gonna be pretty cool to be able to point to some pictures hanging in my bar in a couple years, and say I remember seeing these guys before they made it big.

No, I get the affiliate thing, and I get that we're going to be developing future Calagry Flames. I was just hoping 1-2 guys might be able to make the cut in a tryout (not likely, and I get that).

More likely is the Flames blow me out of the water with the talent they have and I've forgotten (for the most part) about recent Mallard players

[J pold]

If any players from the Mallards need a place to play…I know the Oilers could use your services, the downside is of course you would have to live in Edmonton

[jdoggivjc]

If any players from the Mallards need a place to play…I know the Oilers could use your services, the downside is of course you would have to live in Edmonton


Touche! :D

[Hesla]

I once did a road trip across the middle of US... stopping in Rock Island and Davenport as i heard they were beautiful clean cities... and they are.

I was amazed at the complete lack of garbage and the cleanliness of the streets.

I went to an arbouretum somewhere in the Quad cities to eat lunch one afternoon. I saw turtles playing in the pond and all kinds of cool plants. It was like +30... relaxing after driving through Chicago.

It is a good place to stop if you are going through there... and now Flames fans have another reason to go there...

[jdoggivjc]

Snakeeye - love the avatar (well aware it's a Flames farm team). Was a big fan of the "Hitman" back in the day. Any idea what he's doing nowadays?

[zztim81]

Welcome Drunk Skunk! We look foreward to your input!
... i dont know, this Quad City thing is going to take some getting used to... i really wish it was actually the tri-city instead...

[MrMastodonFarm]

Welcome Drunk Skunk! We look foreward to your input!
... i dont know, this Quad City thing is going to take some getting used to... i really wish it was actually the tri-city instead...
Can't count to four...?

[zztim81]

yes ... someone found out my secret.. actually if it was the Tri-city Flames id actually be able to make it down to see a game once in a while...

[Resolute 14]

Snakeeye - love the avatar (well aware it's a Flames farm team). Was a big fan of the "Hitman" back in the day. Any idea what he's doing nowadays?

He's mostly chillin, its seems. He's been seen around Hitmen games, but so far as I know, he's simply enjoying retirement.

[Sidney Crosby's Hat]

He's mostly chillin, its seems. He's been seen around Hitmen games, but so far as I know, he's simply enjoying retirement.

Wasn't he recently the genie for a stage show of Aladdin?

[Iowa_Flames_Fan]

Well. It sure seems like being a Flames fan in southeast Iowa is about to get a lot less lonely!

A hearty welcome to all the new members of the board.

[Hemi-Cuda]

i'm already much more excited about our farm team with this move and the QC fan's reaction, i'll definitely be keeping more tabs on them than when they were in Omaha. now if only we could get some more televised games, i loved watching the one last year with the Knights and Marlies

[Bobblehead]

Wasn't he recently the genie for a stage show of Aladdin?

Yeah, I heard him with Robb Kerr when the show was in town at the Jube, saying how different it was to be going to the Jubilee to perform instead of just see a show.

[Drunk Skunk]

i'm already much more excited about our farm team with this move and the QC fan's reaction, i'll definitely be keeping more tabs on them than when they were in Omaha. now if only we could get some more televised games, i loved watching the one last year with the Knights and Marlies
All the games will be available on the b2 network. I usually record all of the games, but I don't know if I'll be able to this coming season. It seems they're gettin' hip to my jive.

[pioneer98]

I just hope that the Players get the memo about how QC and Peoria have a bitter rivalry. and wern't even in the same league. I will be there for that one. even if I have no sick time. I am going to that game.

Absolutely. I'll be there too. Back when the Mallards were winning championships and drawing 8,000+, Peoria's newspaper columnists were always saying that the Mallards played in an inferior league. At the time the Rivermen were in the ECHL, which I'll admit probably was a better league. But so what? In reality they were simply jealous.

If memory serves, I believe the Mallards and Rivermen did play home-and-home exhibition games one year. Seinfeld would have described the games as follows: The Mallards dominated them, yada yada yada, they never played again. Now we get to play them for real, and no more arguing with them about what league is better.

[pioneer98]

The only thing worse than the Icehogs jerseys are their warmup jerseys:

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r274/bridgetosomewhere/fatwallet.jpg

[jdoggivjc]

The only thing worse than the Icehogs jerseys are their warmup jerseys:

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r274/bridgetosomewhere/fatwallet.jpg

As the comic Johnny Chang (do I have that name right?) would say...

NEEEEEGUH!!!

[Hemi-Cuda]

All the games will be available on the b2 network. I usually record all of the games, but I don't know if I'll be able to this coming season. It seems they're gettin' hip to my jive.

b2 network? is that some online station, or a regular US tv channel?

[Eddie Bronze]

I'm a little late to the party but I'd also like to welcome all the new members of CPuck from the Quad Cities. I read through this topic and the press released one and was surprised to see how many new members we have from there already. So welcome to all of you, it's amazing to see all of this support and interest so far!

[flame^thrower]

I too would like to welcome all the QC newcomers! I look forward to some good threads regarding the farm team. I was following Omaha as best I could and Tilley's reports were really quite a treat.
Here's to a great relationship between Calgary and The Quad Cities!

Welcome folks I hope you enjoy this place!

[Drunk Skunk]

Absolutely. I'll be there too. Back when the Mallards were winning championships and drawing 8,000+, Peoria's newspaper columnists were always saying that the Mallards played in an inferior league. At the time the Rivermen were in the ECHL, which I'll admit probably was a better league. But so what? In reality they were simply jealous.

If memory serves, I believe the Mallards and Rivermen did play home-and-home exhibition games one year. Seinfeld would have described the games as follows: The Mallards dominated them, yada yada yada, they never played again. Now we get to play them for real, and no more arguing with them about what league is better.
I believe they did it two years in a row, for the "I-74 Cup." Then the player's union wouldn't let them do it anymore, since the UHL was a non-union league.

b2 network? is that some online station, or a regular US tv channel?

B2 Live TV (http://www.b2livetv.com/)
It's a pay-per-view service for minor league hockey, as well as some other leagues(Arena Football, NLL). If you click on the DSkunk Video link in my sig, you'll get a good idea of what the quality is like from UHL arenas.

[Teal]

Actually it's the Casino Cup. It's in Sauers office in Peoria.
I wonder if the NBC affilliate will play some flames games.

[jdoggivjc]

Actually it's the Casino Cup. It's in Sauers office in Peoria.
I wonder if the NBC affilliate will play some flames games.

Highly unlikely KWQC does that, unless there's precedent in the other AHL cities.

[CCW]

Highly unlikely KWQC does that, unless there's precedent in the other AHL cities.

Another QC fan checking in. And if I remember correctly, all of the Chicago Wolves games are televised....at least the road games.

Is it October yet?

[Teal]

Not in Flin.... Er Galesburg.

[Biff]

Is it October yet?

No, but Calgary did have snow this last week. Unusual for this time of year but not unheard of. I think we had 3-4 inches of snow (notice the NOT metric for my new 'merican friends). Do the Quad Cities get much snow (in winter....not in May...that's just silly).

Oh...and welcome CCW.

[Teal]

We get a good snow or two in the winter. I think we had 2 big snows last winter and two baby snows.

[Biff]

For those from the QC who might make a pilgrimage to the Big Club to take in a game, please PM me as I have four season's tickets and may be out of town for large parts of the season and can likely make tickets available.

OH....stop it already all of you old regulars.....yes...if I can't use my tickets I will make them available first to CPers. This was a welcome present to the new QC members. Sheesh....try to do something nice for people.:rolleyes:

(The above was a pre-emptive rebuttal and explanation in anticipation of the plethora of whiney "I'll take your tickets" posts from ABSOLUTELY EVERYONE ON CP (almost)).

[Teal]

I don't think Ill make it to Calgary, never know I can see alot of the Boarders from ITC making a big trip there for a game.

[Reggie Dunlop]

That's mighty neighborly of you, Biff.

[Biff]

That's mighty neighborly of you, Biff.

We try to put on a good first impression before the flame-wars and slag-fests begin and we start to, once again, eat our young.

Is it just me or do others find themselves in spelling limbo. Do we favor favor or favour? Which is more honorable or dishonourable? ...or is it just shades of distinction for the same colors...er....colours. nevermind.

[jdoggivjc]

For those from the QC who might make a pilgrimage to the Big Club to take in a game, please PM me as I have four season's tickets and may be out of town for large parts of the season and can likely make tickets available.

I dunno - I'm highly wanted outside this country and it's fairly safe here. I leave our borders and I may be deported back to Middle Earth! ;)

[Drunk Skunk]

For those from the QC who might make a pilgrimage to the Big Club to take in a game, please PM me as I have four season's tickets and may be out of town for large parts of the season and can likely make tickets available.

OH....stop it already all of you old regulars.....yes...if I can't use my tickets I will make them available first to CPers. This was a welcome present to the new QC members. Sheesh....try to do something nice for people.:rolleyes:

(The above was a pre-emptive rebuttal and explanation in anticipation of the plethora of whiney "I'll take your tickets" posts from ABSOLUTELY EVERYONE ON CP (almost)).
My dad and I were actually just talking about that this morning(As we looked for Calgary Flames gameworns to add to the collection), and said it would be pretty cool to be able to wear a QC Flames jersey up to a Calgary game. Looks to be about a 25 hour drive (http://www.mapquest.com/directions/main.adp?go=1&do=nw&rmm=1&un=m&cl=EN&ct=NA&rsres=1&1ffi=&1l=&1g=&1pl=&1v=&1n=&2ffi=&2l=&2g=&2pl=&2v=&2n=&1pn=&1a=1201+River+Drive&1c=moline&1s=il&1z=&2pn=&2a=555+Saddledome+Rise+SE&2c=calgary&2s=ab&2z=&r=f) from The Mark to the Saddledome. I don't like flying :D

[jdoggivjc]

If you're gonna make that kinda drive you might as well spend a couple of nites there and attend a couple of games

[normtwofinger]

Welcome QC's to the greatest sports organization ever. Sorry if this was posted yet, I tried reading most of the thread, is there any word on what The QC's team will be called?

[Iowa_Flames_Fan]

My dad and I were actually just talking about that this morning(As we looked for Calgary Flames gameworns to add to the collection), and said it would be pretty cool to be able to wear a QC Flames jersey up to a Calgary game. Looks to be about a 25 hour drive (http://www.mapquest.com/directions/main.adp?go=1&do=nw&rmm=1&un=m&cl=EN&ct=NA&rsres=1&1ffi=&1l=&1g=&1pl=&1v=&1n=&2ffi=&2l=&2g=&2pl=&2v=&2n=&1pn=&1a=1201+River+Drive&1c=moline&1s=il&1z=&2pn=&2a=555+Saddledome+Rise+SE&2c=calgary&2s=ab&2z=&r=f) from The Mark to the Saddledome. I don't like flying :D

I've made that drive many times--and I have to tell you it's more like 30. Bring books on tape. :confused:

[Nitro]

Greetings from Omaha....

I thought I would address a few items that may be of interest....

1. Congratulations to the QC area. Rest assured that not only are you getting a very, very good hockey team but a great bunch of guys who will be an asset to your community. Have fun and SUPPORT your team.

2. There were some very hard core fans in Omaha who went to many lengths to support the team. Booster club bus trips were always full. Not too many posted here as we had our own board that was active. I only posted here a couple times before signing on that board.

3. We truly appreciate the chance to have had the Knights in Omaha, it was a fun two years. I had season tickets from Day One, in fact I'm told I was one of the first in town.

4. The issue here in Omaha is how this was handled by the Flames. In April, KK was quoted(in the article about Omaha being a three team town), that not only were the Knights returning for a third season, but would do so with a reinvigorated marketing campaign. Season tickets were promoted and sold, merchandise was sold, etc. Attendance although not great was rising and our playoff attendance was fourth in the league. Almost two weeks ago, the story broke. I think the emotions here are ranging from hurt, dazed, and some are just angry. I think I just fall in the "what could have been" group. Everything was going in the right direction. There was even a press conference in town here announcing the third season.

5. I hold no animosity against the QC area. They made a great offer, one that seems to leave Calgary out of the business end of the team(they wer 50/50 with a charitable organization here). I wish the team and your town(s) nothing but the best.

My message....SUPPORT and enjoy your team, you never know what can happen.

I am attaching the document issued by Calgary announcing the team moving here in the first place just for history's sake.....

CALGARY FLAMES ANNOUNCE THE RETURN OF
PROFESSIONAL HOCKEY TO OMAHA, NEBRASKA
OMAHA BECOMES 30TH MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE
For Immediate Release
Monday, March 28, 2005
Calgary, AB – Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Vice-Chairman David Parker and Calgary Flames
President & CEO Ken King announced Omaha, Nebraska as the new home for the Flames’
American Hockey League franchise. Professional hockey returns to Omaha following a 30-
year absence with the establishment of the Midwest City as the 30th member of the NHL’s
premier development league.
“The Flames are the right AHL franchise for Omaha because they share our commitment to
supporting the community,” said Parker. “The Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Foundation is entering
into this partnership as a part of our mission for building a more prosperous heartland.”
The history of professional hockey in Omaha dates back to 1939 when the Knights of Ak-Sar-
Ben, a civic organization dedicated to community good, identified professional hockey as a
way to distinguish Omaha as a more attractive location in the Midwest. Over the next 35 years,
the Knights were affiliated with several NHL teams including the Detroit Red Wings, New York
Rangers and Montreal Canadiens. Coincidently, in 1973, the Atlanta Flames took over sole
sponsorship of the Knights for their final three seasons. During the initial history of the Knights
they were crowned champions on six occasions. Many famous hockey names once called
Omaha home including Hockey Hall of Fame inductees Gordie Howe, Scotty Bowman and
Fred Shero.
“We are pleased to have secured an agreement that will return professional hockey to Omaha
and allow us to develop our top prospects in a world class city and in partnership with the
community focus of the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Foundation,” said King. “We are proud to work
alongside the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben to ensure that professional hockey will make a positive
impact on the quality of life for Omahans.”
The Calgary Flames have been a member of the National Hockey League since 1980 and will
be celebrating their 25th Anniversary in their western Canadian city with the 2005-2006 season.
During that time, the Flames have played in the Stanley Cup Finals on three occasions,
winning the championship in 1989. Most recently, the Flames competed for the Cup but fell to
the Tampa Bay Lightning in a thrilling seven game series in 2004.
“This partnership is consistent with our overall player development strategy that includes the
permanent relocation of our American Hockey League franchise,” said Flames Coach and
General Manager Darryl Sutter. “We intend on building a hockey club in Omaha that
resembles the character and qualities we are desirous of in our team in Calgary. Our AHL
affiliate will be a competitive team that is hard working and committed to our overall
organization’s goal of becoming champions.”
-moreThe
Knights will play their home games in the renovated Omaha Civic Auditorium. Opening on
January 3, 1955 it became Omaha's first arena and convention center and is the site of
conventions, concerts, trade shows and sporting events. The Omaha Beef, an indoor profootball
team, and Creighton University women's basketball and volleyball teams also call the
Omaha Civic Auditorium their home.
"Key partnerships and a commitment to energizing the Omaha Civic Auditorium made this deal
possible," said Roger Dixon, MECA President & CEO. "We are incredibly proud to have the
Flames and their partnership with the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Foundation here. They will be a
wonderful addition to the city and we know our community will welcome them with great
enthusiasm."
There are now 30 active teams for the AHL's 2005-06 season, during which the league will
commemorate its 70th anniversary. In addition to the Knights, the AHL will also be welcoming
the Iowa Stars (Dallas Stars) and Peoria Rivermen (St. Louis Blues) next year.
"On behalf of our other member clubs, I am excited to welcome the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben and
the city of Omaha to the American Hockey League family," said AHL President David Andrews.
"The Calgary Flames have a successful history of developing players in the AHL, recently
demonstrated by their appearance in the 2004 Stanley Cup Finals. In addition to an exciting
on-ice product, the Omaha Knights will also provide a strong new rivalry to our teams in the
Midwest."
In operation since 1936, the American Hockey League serves as the top development league
for all 30 National Hockey League clubs.
-30-
For Information Contact:
Peter Hanlon
Vice President, Communications
Calgary Flames Hockey Club
(403) 777-3684
phanlon@calgaryflames.com

[tonyrock1983]

another qc fan here. another thing tham excites me is that all the players are one step away from the big time. it will bring back the days of the thunder (old cba team).

[Jay Random]

I've made that drive many times--and I have to tell you it's more like 30. Bring books on tape. :confused:

Yup. Last summer I drove from Chicago to Calgary in two gruelling 18-hour days, including a stomach-churning shortcut on Route 200 through central Montana. I don't recommend that at all.

[jdoggivjc]

Yup. Last summer I drove from Chicago to Calgary in two gruelling 18-hour days, including a stomach-churning shortcut on Route 200 through central Montana. I don't recommend that at all.

What kind of vehicle were you driving? I'm sure with my 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP w/ Comp G would not only handle it very well, but would own it and thank me for taking that shortcut :nod:

[Jay Random]

^^^
It wasn't the vehicle, it was the road. No shoulders at all, pavement so narrow that the white lines on the sides were partly painted on the grass, and built like a rollercoaster. Montana 200 is a wonderful scenic route, but you don't want to be driving it at 75 mph, which is what I had to do to get through in two days.

And then there was the hour I spent creeping along behind an over-width logging truck, which pretty much cancelled out the advantage of the shortcut.

One day I'd like to drive through that part of Montana again, but at a speed that allows me to rubberneck and take it easy. Fantastic scenery, but a lousy place to build a highway.

[tonyrock1983]

you're right, i forgot all about that... here's their jersey

http://www.icehogs.com/photos/021607/images/DSC_0062.jpg

pretty ASSinine, if you know what I mean ;)

now that we are the flames, it will be easier to have a hog roast

[Teal]

I am going to miss the co ckburn jokes.

[Iowa_Flames_Fan]

Yup. Last summer I drove from Chicago to Calgary in two gruelling 18-hour days, including a stomach-churning shortcut on Route 200 through central Montana. I don't recommend that at all.


The freeways in Montana are bad enough--especially when you get to the western border!

Actually, I will say that if you go North through Minneapolis and then bear NW through Fargo/Grand Forks and head through Winnipeg and Saskatchewan, it IS a little faster--like a savings of 4 hours over the whole trip.

But that's a hellish drive for your sanity. It's essentially flat for 25 hours. I'd much rather take a few extra hours to go the scenic route through South Dakota and Montana.

[Jay Random]

^^^
Not only is the drive through Saskatchewan a good way to die of boredom (I've done it several times, but been mysteriously resurrected), the price of gas makes it an expensive death as well.

South Dakota is magnificent, until you get close to the Minnesota border, where there's nothing left to see but corn, corn, corn, corn, corn, corn, corn, corn, baked bean, corn, corn, and corn fields. ;)

If you want to come up and take in a Flames game by road, I'd say the best thing to do is allow three days for the trip and enjoy the sights.

[Iowa_Flames_Fan]

^^^
Not only is the drive through Saskatchewan a good way to die of boredom (I've done it several times, but been mysteriously resurrected), the price of gas makes it an expensive death as well.

South Dakota is magnificent, until you get close to the Minnesota border, where there's nothing left to see but corn, corn, corn, corn, corn, corn, corn, corn, baked bean, corn, corn, and corn fields. ;)

If you want to come up and take in a Flames game by road, I'd say the best thing to do is allow three days for the trip and enjoy the sights.

I still think the best thing is to drive to the airport and take a plane.

But yeah, if you must drive, the scenic route is far, far superior!

[604flames]

http://www.icehogs.com/photos/021607/images/DSC_0062.jpg


Maybe it's just me, but the look on this guy's face totally reminded me of the "Taylor has beautiful eyes" sign guy..

[Drunk Skunk]

His name is Cockburn.

[jdoggivjc]

I don't think we'll be seeing too much of that ugly mug next year - but I guess there's plenty more to contend with...

[fklauke]

i'm already much more excited about our farm team with this move and the QC fan's reaction, i'll definitely be keeping more tabs on them than when they were in Omaha. now if only we could get some more televised games, i loved watching the one last year with the Knights and Marlies

Another QC Hockey fan here - full disclosure requires that I admit I'm the local TV producer for the Mediacom Connections channel (local Iowa-based cable network). I can't say what will happen in our market next season, but our Des Moines affiliate has done 5-8 Iowa Stars games each year for the past two seasons on our network. If there's a local cable station in Calgary that may be interested in helping pick up the uplink costs, we could possibly work out a deal to get them the coordinates and give them the ad breaks if we're able to get some Des Moines-QC games on our system.

If anyone up north has any ideas about a station that may be open to the possibility, let me know and I'll see what I can do from my end (admittedly, I have little clout, but still... ;)) Just to repeat - there are a lot of issues that need to be worked out before this is even a possibility, so don't anyone go circling Stars-Flames dates on your AHL schedule just yet....:)

[Teal]

Ill circle them, and Ill go to them.

[Drunk Skunk]

Another QC Hockey fan here - full disclosure requires that I admit I'm the local TV producer for the Mediacom Connections channel (local Iowa-based cable network). I can't say what will happen in our market next season, but our Des Moines affiliate has done 5-8 Iowa Stars games each year for the past two seasons on our network. If there's a local cable station in Calgary that may be interested in helping pick up the uplink costs, we could possibly work out a deal to get them the coordinates and give them the ad breaks if we're able to get some Des Moines-QC games on our system.

If anyone up north has any ideas about a station that may be open to the possibility, let me know and I'll see what I can do from my end (admittedly, I have little clout, but still... ;)) Just to repeat - there are a lot of issues that need to be worked out before this is even a possibility, so don't anyone go circling Stars-Flames dates on your AHL schedule just yet....:)
Tell DirecTV to pick up the Mediacom Connections channel :lol:

[Teal]

DTV sucks too.

[Jetsfan]

Season tickets are now available on QC Flames.com. The prices look very reasonable for AHL hockey!!! Welcome QC fans!

[Drunk Skunk]

Season tickets are now available on QC Flames.com. The prices look very reasonable for AHL hockey!!! Welcome QC fans!

Yep, $400 for lower bowl until July 1st, then $500 after July 1st. If one pays before then, that's only 10 bucks a game for AHL hockey. I can't think of a better deal out there.

Thankfully, I paid mine in full a few weeks ago. I got locked in at $9.50 a game :lol:

[fklauke]

Tell DirecTV to pick up the Mediacom Connections channel :lol:

:D Man, if only! You have no idea how many times people have asked if Connections is on Dish or DirecTV - it boggles the mind...

[Nitro]

Yep, $400 for lower bowl until July 1st, then $500 after July 1st. If one pays before then, that's only 10 bucks a game for AHL hockey. I can't think of a better deal out there.

Thankfully, I paid mine in full a few weeks ago. I got locked in at $9.50 a game :lol:


This is even more of a bitter pill for Omaha. My lower bowl season tickets were $18 dollars each last year(down from $21 the year before) and kids tickets(none the first year) were $10 up to age 13. This doesn't make any sense-you guys even have a newer arena. My bill last year(2 adults and 2 kids) , $2240, your bill this year(2 adults, 2 kids), $1200. That is truly awesome for you, season tickets to the AHL for $400.....priceless. How do you think the QC would react to ticket prices like we had? Seriously, just curious....

[Caged Great]

$2200 for 4 season tickets, mine were 3400 for 2 and are 3800 this upcoming season.... I wish mine were that cheap

[Nitro]

$2200 for 4 season tickets, mine were 3400 for 2 and are 3800 this upcoming season.... I wish mine were that cheap

Keep in mind the reason I brought this up is that now those same 4 tickets will only cost $1200 in the QC this season. My whole point was that Omaha would have definitely turned out differently had we been priced this way. My first years tickets were $3200 for two adults and two kids.

The difference is that Calgary is no longer in the ticket business in their AHL franchise-the local ownership group has taken charge and obviously their goal is to fill the seats and create excitement. Calgary had 51% ownership here and the charity organization that held the 49% basically sat back and let Calgary run the show. They did nothing the first year to try to get fans in....it was a "build it and they will come" attitude. I sure wish we would have had a local ownership group ...would have been different....the Knights owuld have been the cheapest hockey ticket in town and the highest level in town...completely different story. Getting people to the games was the problem, but once they went they were hooked. This would have solved that problem.......

[Drunk Skunk]

This is even more of a bitter pill for Omaha. My lower bowl season tickets were $18 dollars each last year(down from $21 the year before) and kids tickets(none the first year) were $10 up to age 13. This doesn't make any sense-you guys even have a newer arena. My bill last year(2 adults and 2 kids) , $2240, your bill this year(2 adults, 2 kids), $1200. That is truly awesome for you, season tickets to the AHL for $400.....priceless. How do you think the QC would react to ticket prices like we had? Seriously, just curious....
They've already reacted very well. I've personally to at least six people that are coming back as season ticket holders after leaving for one or more seasons. I would honestly be surprised if they don't average 4,500 or so the first year. It was stated in the paper that the break-even point is a 4,000 fan average, so I hope they can bring in the bigger crowds again.

For anyone interested, the baby Flames will be travelling to Manitoba in the upcoming season, as well as Hamilton, ON and Toronto.

[Nitro]

They've already reacted very well. I've personally to at least six people that are coming back as season ticket holders after leaving for one or more seasons. I would honestly be surprised if they don't average 4,500 or so the first year. It was stated in the paper that the break-even point is a 4,000 fan average, so I hope they can bring in the bigger crowds again.

For anyone interested, the baby Flames will be travelling to Manitoba in the upcoming season, as well as Hamilton, ON and Toronto.


What I was asking was "how would the QC's react to ticket prices like we had first year...instead of 1200 for full season tickets for two adults and two children the price was $3200". I assume they would have reacted the way Omaha did the first year.....

[QuadCityImages]

It always seems like a better idea to have 8,000 people paying $10 or $15 than 4,000 people paying $20 or $30. More excitement, more souvineer sales, more concessions, etc. Now if only our baseball team would learn that.

I'm looking forward to seeing big crowds again, but as Pioneer said, I hope they last this time.

[Drunk Skunk]

Question for you QC fans - where did you come from? I know where Teal came from :lol: Did y'all find this board from the other site?

[tonyrock1983]

It always seems like a better idea to have 8,000 people paying $10 or $15 than 4,000 people paying $20 or $30. More excitement, more souvineer sales, more concessions, etc. Now if only our baseball team would learn that.

I'm looking forward to seeing big crowds again, but as Pioneer said, I hope they last this time.

i to would like to see the big crowds again. while i don't see the 8,000 to 9,000 yet, i could see 5,000-6,000 easily. in my opinion, as long as the intrest stays high, this could last a long time.

[tonyrock1983]

Question for you QC fans - where did you come from? I know where Teal came from :lol: Did y'all find this board from the other site?

i saw the site in the paper last weekend and decided to check it out.

[Teal]

Question for you QC fans - where did you come from? I know where Teal came from :lol: Did y'all find this board from the other site?

some of us followed the link you posted in ITB. I'm pretty sure Zam is here somewhere:ph34r:. Some of the ITBer's are easy to spot by the Avatars.

[pioneer98]

QuadCityImages clued me into the site.

I've also heard from a handful of people that they are planning to get season tickets again next year that haven't had them in a few years. I think we may beat 4,500 per game.

[QCPuckFan]

QuadCityImages clued me into the site.

I've also heard from a handful of people that they are planning to get season tickets again next year that haven't had them in a few years. I think we may beat 4,500 per game.


The fact that they are lowering season ticket prices will help. The smartest move they could have made...

http://qcflames.com/seasonticketinfo.htm

[jdoggivjc]

Question for you QC fans - where did you come from? I know where Teal came from :lol: Did y'all find this board from the other site?

The Quad City Times Website had a link posted for this site, and I followed it. That's how I ended up here.

[Resolute 14]

The fact that they are lowering season ticket prices will help. The smartest move they could have made...

http://qcflames.com/seasonticketinfo.htm


Good god... that is cheaper than Hitmen tickets...

[Hack&Lube]

In any case, the sheer number of QC visitors within the first few days seems promising. We never got this kind of interest from Omaha.

[Biff]

I got here by, apparently, having just way to much time tied up in silly real world pursuits like work, social life, talking to family....so CP drew me in like a moth to a flame. It's text-based crack, I tell ya'.

[Nitro]

In any case, the sheer number of QC visitors within the first few days seems promising. We never got this kind of interest from Omaha.


There was a level of interest in Omaha, we had our own website. I'll bet the interest would have been higher with those ticket prices though!!!

Half the price that they were here........

[QuadCityImages]

Here's an article (http://qctimes.com/articles/2007/06/01/sports/doc465fb2187c454629272431.txt) in the Quad City Times about coach McGill, his house hunt, and his views on the team.

[Hoody]

Question for you QC fans - where did you come from? I know where Teal came from :lol: Did y'all find this board from the other site?

I saw the link posted on one of the other AHL boards I believe. You sent some links to me also.

Hoody

[Hemi-Cuda]

Here's an article (http://qctimes.com/articles/2007/06/01/sports/doc465fb2187c454629272431.txt) in the Quad City Times about coach McGill, his house hunt, and his views on the team.

good lord, i spent more time looking at those housing prices on the right hand side than at the article. what can buy you the smallest of condos in Calgary can get you a big 2 storey house with garage over there. McGill should have an easy time house shopping

[Hoody]

good lord, i spent more time looking at those housing prices on the right hand side than at the article. what can buy you the smallest of condos in Calgary can get you a big 2 storey house with garage over there. McGill should have an easy time house shopping


As an architectural designer, I can say I have met many a couple who have been transferred to the QC area because of work, and actually made out like a bandit because the prices in their former location were so much higher than they are here. I know people that have doubled the size of their house and lot, or bought ground when the only had a ¼-acre before, and still ended up with a couple hundred thousand in their pockets. Great place to live, but very unappreciated by many that have lived here their entire lives. I guess you find that everywhere.

Hoody

[pioneer98]

Hoody - you are absolutely right about this area being unnappreciated by those who live here. Attitudes slowly seem to be changing, but I wish it would happen a little faster.

Back to the subject at hand... I'm proud to say I'm now a Flames season-ticketholder. We never had full season tickets with the Mallards, although twice we had partial season tickets. We usually go to about 14-15 Mallards games each year.

My situation is a bit different than Drunk Skunk's - I'm buying for myself, my wife and a child. We got 3 seats in the 2nd row upper bowl near center ice for $760 for the season ($7 per adult ticket and $5 per youth ticket).

I figured to go to our normal 15 games at face value, we would have spent close to $500. I realized for an extra $250 we could basically get an extra 25 games. I'm sure we will miss some games, but we can afford to at that price.

FYI - They aren't sure if the "Duck Blind" will be back, it all depends on how they end up expanding the ice. For Calgary fans, the Duck Blind was a small seating and standing room area at the "top" of the horseshoe where season ticket holders could go to watch the game if they wanted.

[tonyrock1983]

don't forget, that u can trade in tickets that u don't use for another ticket at another game. perfect way to get another fri8end/family member interested in the new team.

[QuadCityImages]

The duck blind is where all the crazies hung out.

[pioneer98]

Hey, who you callin crazy? :rolleyes:

The fact that we can turn in our unused tickets was another factor in what swayed me to getting season tix. We usually have a large group who come in every February for a game, and now I can basically give them whatever tix we don't use to that point.

[cannon7]

nm