The Wisdom of Our Crowds – 101 To Do List Final

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It has been an incredibly faced-paced, exciting and rewarding three-plus months since we formed Monumental Sports & Entertainment and acquired the Washington Wizards, Verizon Center and the local Ticketmaster franchise. My partners and I are fortunate to have such a passionate and dedicated staff as we prepare to usher in many of the changes our fans have suggested. We all have worked incredibly hard as we prepare for the upcoming NHL and NBA seasons.At the June news conference announcing the acquisitions, I informed our fans that I had opened my TheWashWiz@aol.com account and invited them to share their thoughts, concerns and wishes, much like Capitals fans have been doing for years. I had planned to use those emails to augment the list of changes I had hoped to enact. But I didn’t anticipate the tremendous response I would receive from Wizards fans as well as additional suggestions from Capitals and Mystics fans and others who attend Verizon Center events. It was staggering, eye-opening and rewarding. I’ve received more than 4,000 emails – some lengthy, some short, some wide-ranging, some direct.

In addition to all the emails, I have attended many events that included current plan-holders, potential plan-holders and plan-holders who have failed to renew this year. I’ve met with business partners and those considering a partnership with us. I have hosted town-hall meetings with hundreds of people at a time, been in small-group discussions, connected with others via phone and encountered many of you in one-on-one settings around town or while attending other events. In all, I believe I had more than 10,000 interactions in the first 100 days of our ownership.

So we took all of this feedback and we got to work. As you may recall, originally I blogged about 101 things that were brought to my attention shortly after the news conference, but that list grew rapidly. We already have changed 101 things in 101 days – and more. Bottom line – you are demanding a double-bottom line business from us. You want us to do well but you also want us to be good citizens. You want us to build playoff contending teams. You want us to compete for and win championships. You want us to do it in a way that makes you proud. We hear you!

List of 101 Signs of Visible Change

You asked for (us to)… Completed? What we’re doing
1. More transparency concerning strategy and plans via more connection with fans Frequent updates on TedsTake.com; provide public insight in team development strategy; 10,000 touch points in first 100 days
2. Reconnect with Gilbert Arenas Met with Gilbert and connected in person and via
e-mail
3. Open some practice sessions to the public Training camp held at GMU with some practice sessions and scrimmage open to the public
4. Visible involvement with local youth basketball Hired a Director of Camps and Clinics
5. Additional benefits for season-ticket holders Wizards VIP ticket holders get free drinks and food; improved parking
6. Improve game presentation and halftime entertainment Will be showing 3D video on opening night and periodically during the season; invested in Crowd Wave technology; upgraded sound and light systems
7. Re-engage with alumni for more participation; launch alumni program Launched Wizards/Bullets Alumni Association led by Bobby Dandridge
8. More season-ticket holder access to the owner Have held dozens town hall meetings and other events with season-ticket holders
9. Create additional “dream seats” and enhance amenities Added 8 new courtside dream seats for Wizards games; added amenities for VIP ticket holders
10. Different Wizards’ cheerleader and Red Rockers’ outfits New outfits will be ready for opening night
11. Redesign WashingtonWizards.com; improve video options Website redesign completed
12. A new public address announcer Ralph Wesley named PA announcer
13. A new LED scorer’s table Installed new scorer’s table with LED display
14. Additional local cable programming Comcast SportsNet dedicated pregame shows
15. Improved recognition of longtime season-ticket holders In-development
16. Improved quality of promotional giveaways In-development
17. Renew connection with our fans in Baltimore Working on events for Baltimore fans
18. Fan access to additional in-game statistical information In-development
19. More organ music More organ music
20. Eliminate the “Dee-Fence” chant Eliminated
21. Move training camp close to D.C. Opened local training camp at the Patriot Center (GMU) with midnight tip-off
22. Maintain connection to Pollin family and charities Continued support for Abe’s Table
23. Develop student discount opportunities for local colleges Will institute student rush nights
24. More community involvement in Virginia George Mason University
25. More community involvement in Maryland In-development
26. Draft and develop international players Kevin Seraphin and Yi Jianlian
27. More local celebrities at games Owners’ Club program launched
28. Change Wizards’ colors back to red, white and blue In-development
29. Increased emphasis on the Wizards D-League team In-development
30. Draft more local college players for Wizards Under consideration
31. Change Wizards’ team name to Bullets Under consideration
32. Increase efficiency at concession stands Speeding up order-taking process at stands; roaming vendors
33. Improve arena lighting See: No. 6
34. Upgrade sound system; additional speakers installed See: No. 6
35. Ensure condiment containers are refilled Instructed vendors to make sure condiment containers are never empty
36. Launch environmentally friendly initiatives Capitals’ and Wizards’ media guides available in digital format; more recycling bins; looking at other Green initiatives
37. Fresher popcorn Asked Aramark to make sure popcorn is always fresh
38. Fresher buns See: No. 37
39. Warmer pizza Turned up heat in ovens
40. Place renewed emphasis on general cleanliness and food safety Working with Aramark to make Verizon Center best-in-class
41. Wi-Fi access WiFi access is now available
42. Food and beverage vendors in stands Beer and peanut vendors in stands at games
43. Colder beer Turned up the cooling system
44. Red white and blue more noticeable in the area Painted garage red, white and blue; arena steps red
45. Improved cell phone reception Working with cell phone carriers to install antenna and improve reception
46. Better iPhone connectivity See: No. 41
47. New usher uniforms Ushers have new game-day uniforms
48. Improve training for ushers In-development
49. Coordinate with metro to improve scheduling and avoid delays In-development
50. Add historic photographs throughout arena Have added memorabilia and photos around Verizon Center
51. Improve parking for plan-holders Added parking as an amenity for VIP ticket holders
52. Increased number of merchandise items In-development
53. Improved amenities on club level Working with Aramark and Levy to provide additional offerings
54. Additional vegetarian food options Will be offering expanded menu of vegetarian food options
55. Kosher food options added to menu Offering kosher food options
56. “Local flavor” to be added to concession menus In-development
57. Improved and upgraded suite amenities Have upgraded a number of suites including Owner’s Suite and Owner’s Club
58. Cleaner mirrors in the bathrooms More Windex issued to staff
59. Install beverage shelf in the men’s restrooms Beverage shelves installed
60. Repair latches in the women’s restrooms Latches fixed
61. Increased efforts to combat ticket scalping near arena Working with DC police to combat problem
62. Paper towels always available, even if hand dryers are present Taken steps to ensure that paper towel dispensers are re-filled during games
63. Replace stained and worn carpet in patron areas Have installed new carpet where needed
64. Improved Verizon Center signage New banners on exterior of building; new images depicting Capitals, Mystics and Wizards history on concourse
65. New banners recognizing team accomplishments See: #64
66. New concourse images of current players and legends See: #64
67. Added memorabilia items for display in suites Some suites upgraded
68. Clean arena windows more frequently In-development
69. Increased messages asking fans to be respectful of others Done
70. Concession e-mail feedback option on the Verizon Center website In-development
71. Paint stairs red Thousands of stairs painted red
72. Paint the garage Garage painted red, white and blue
73. Acela Club redesign Completed and tickets being sold
74. Add ledge seating to Acela Club Completed and tickets being sold
75. Add standing room only seats for Capitals Completed and tickets being sold
76. New Owners’ Club suite Owner’s Suite and Owner’s Club renovated
77. New executive offices Offices renovated
78. Upgrade the online “will call” process In-development
79. Food and beverage directory to be available online In-development
80. Additional TDD offerings at the Verizon Center In-development
81. Offer valet parking for VIP ticket holders Done
82. Concierge service available at the Verizon Center In-development
83. Owner commitment to blog regularly about all teams – Capitals, Mystics and Wizards TedsTake.com
84. Combined ticket packages including Capitals, Mystics and Wizards Available and on-sale
85. Partner with restaurants and businesses to provide discounts for fans Discount coupons for season-ticket holders
86. The Owner’s Suite to be used for charitable purposes Owners host many events in the suite
87. Keep toilet paper stock in bathrooms Staff asked to ensure toilet paper dispensers are never empty
88. Less random discounting of tickets Done
89. More autograph sessions Capitals’ Convention; Wizards’ FanFest
90. More music variety Done
91. More stand-alone concession carts Done
92. Social media tweetups Done
93. Improve media room Will install new carpet, tables and chairs
94. Create more energy in the arena New videos, music and technology
95. More equitable distribution of prizes to various sections In-development
96. Create a “basketball junkies” ticket package including Wizards, Mystics and Hoyas In-development
97. Additional iPhone applications In-development
98. Work with city to increase visible levels of security around Verizon Center Done
99. Text for service capability in arena for all fans Done
100. Upgrade family rooms for players and friends Done
101. New ways to clean arena by fans In-development

Perhaps the most visible change to date was the switch to George Mason University for Wizards training camp. One of the things you asked for was an opportunity for a greater connection with the team, so we listened and moved our training camp from its traditional site near Richmond to George Mason, here in Northern Virginia. We started training camp with Wizards Midnight Tip-off – I’m told it’s the first time an event like this has happened in the NBA. Our players and coaches were really excited and nearly 4,000 fans showed up at the Patriot Center. George Mason president Dr. Alan Merten and basketball coach Jim Larranaga have been exceptional hosts. It was a fantastic way to hit the court running.

One of the common themes I heard in your comments was the need to freshen up and spruce up the Verizon Center. We hear you, and we had similar thoughts. We have more ideas and plans in the works, but here are a few of the more significant and notable projects we’ve already completed:

• We painted the arena’s parking garage red, white and blue (and it’s a pretty big garage).

• Then we decided that wasn’t enough, so we painted the stairs in the Verizon Center red. There are literally thousands of stairs in the Verizon Center, but I think you’ll agree that it looks great.

• We changed the game-night attire for all of our ushers, and their new uniforms are fashionable and professional – they really look fantastic.

• We undertook a major project in the Acela Club, building what we refer to as new “ledge seats” where fans can sit and watch the games while enjoying the great food and beverages that are served up there.

• We’ve invested significantly in a new lighting system and an upgraded sound system. We have a great atmosphere now, especially for Capitals games, but these additions really are going to help improve the game experience and make it even more exciting and enjoyable. We also have invested in Crowd Wave technology that will get our fans much more involved in our game entertainment.

• Many of you complained about the quality as well as the time it took to order and purchase your food. So we’ve taken steps to speed up the process at every food stand in the building. We also have put a select number of vendors with food and beverages back in the stands so that you don’t have to leave your seats. We’ve taken steps to make sure the beer is cold (do you know we serve nearly 50 brands of beer?), the pizza is hot and the popcorn is fresh. We’ve added a number of kosher, gluten-free, vegetarian and even vegan food offerings. We also have added a text service that allows fans to give us immediate feedback on how we are doing.

• Importantly, we’ve redoubled our efforts to ensure that the concession areas are clean and inviting. I even joined our cleaning staff to make sure I understood how it all works – the same day that President Obama visited us at a Mystics game.

• We’ve added LED displays at courtside for Wizards games that look great and also allowed us to offer an additional eight courtside “dream seats.” We will be offering free food and drink for our VIP seat-holders, and we’ve built a number of new VIP areas for those fans. The one I’m most excited about is the new Owner’s Club, where those VIP seat-holders will be able to mingle during and after games.

These are only a few of the changes we’ve made, and we’re not even close to being done. Take a look at our To-Do List and you can see the items that are checked off as well as other items that are in progress. There are still changes around the corner, too, like reinstituting the Wizards red, white and blue uniforms, but not everything can be completed in 101 days. Dick Patrick, Monumental Sports & Entertainment COO and president of the Capitals, and his staff have been working extremely hard on all of these changes, and we think when you come to Verizon Center for a game or concert, you definitely will notice and appreciate their hard work.

I admire the level of engagement demonstrated by our fans as I assembled the list, and I do firmly believe in our collective wisdom. We are in this together – to improve your experience at Verizon Center and to build championship-caliber teams that will make all of us proud.

This is a process, and our staff has worked extremely hard to make as many of these changes as quickly as possible. But please be assured that we won’t stop listening. Obtaining your feedback makes all of us better and puts us in a position to better serve you. So I am always cognizant of that, no matter how many changes we have made or may make, I will believe in the wisdom of our crowds.

So take a look at the list and see what changes will impact you the most. You asked. We listened, and we are doing our best to deliver.

Your feedback is always welcome here.

160 thoughts on “The Wisdom of Our Crowds – 101 To Do List Final”

  2. @admin: I just have to say your website is the first I’ve come across this morning that doesn’t have spelling errors every other sentence. Thank you for taking the time to write something that doesn’t look like a 5th grader wrote. Sorry, just had to vent.

  3. Seriously, we need an update on the name! I think the majority of fans would agree we want the Bullets back! Just read all the replies and you’ll agree.

  4. Agreed. #31 needs to be updated, but we should take a note from the now defunct National Rookie League and change out name to Washington Justice, if we can get the rights to it. I mean, it goes with the them of Nationals, Capitals, United. And they play on a court. “Order in the Court.” Bringing other teams to justice. C’mon. How could you NOT want that?

  5. Can we please get an update on the list? Specifically number 31. Change Wizards’ team name to Bullets.

    83 percent of the fans want the change to happen! Please make it happen!

  6. Ted,
    Can we get an update on the status of the in-progress items on the list of 101 visible signs of change?

  8. So much to do and little time. Time is money. The clock is ticking. Develop and take one step then two.

    When you get to Boston eat the calm Chowder.

    When you get to LA take in some sun.

    Rest , eat and be merry. Than Win the Game.

    “Patience is a virtue” You have to outsmart these teams.

    Cover Shack change his music. Kevin Garnet , place close to the basket for rebounds let him shoot.

    Colby try eating cheese.

    That’s it.

    Good luck

    Read 152 verses of the bible.

  9. Washington Bullets in red, white, and blue led by John Wall. That would be so unbelievable we all would be in shock & awe.

  10. Ted, I think it would be cool to have old school night a few games a year. Bring back the old uniforms, with tight shorts, tube socks, googles like they had in the 80′s. The NFL does it with their teams a few times a year I think the Wiz should to it also..would make for good tv.

  11. Ted,

    I love the Caps, and every game has been a great experience! I love your list, its a great thing.

    I meant to tell you this earlier, but as a college student, it’s not something always on my mind. But beverage shelves in the ladies room would be a great call. You don’t know how often I’ll be running for a beer (or 2), and realize that I have to utilize the facilities….

    I also love the idea of local cuisine on the menu! Why shouldn’t we be proud of our Nation’s Capital in every way possible.

    Thanks again for being awesome, and I do like the Mystics new colors.

  13. you get mad props for accomplishing many items on your list. Get DC police to get scalpers more though. They’re still hovering all around…

  15. Mr. Leonsis,
    Thanks for creating one of the most exciting environments I’ve ever experienced at a professional sporting event. It was my good fortune to attend opening night October 9th. I enjoyed the entire experience, and the team played well. Let’s bring Lord Stanley to DC this year. Go Caps!
    As a lifelong fan of the Caps, I only wish that I could attend more games. I have a few suggestions that I would like to express, hopefully, seeing them come to fruition.
    Get rid of the premium pricing structure. It almost broke the bank for me to attend opening night, which might be the only game I get to see. I want to take my children to a game, but might not be able to. Bring back the Eagle’s Nest (or some price feature) so that the average middle class family can attend a few games a year.
    Provide a greater amount of partial games packages.
    One more comment. As a longtime suffering fan of the Caps, I found it ridiculous that because I reside in Pennsylvania, I could not purchase tickets to the playoff games two years ago because we were playing Pittsburgh. I hope that this year, if I have the opportunity to witness playoff hockey, and the Caps are playing a Pennsylvania based team, that I will be able to purchase a ticket, and not be discriminated against because of where I make my home.
    Thanks for listening! Go Caps!
    Joe Benesch

  16. Dears Mr. Leonsis Thank You for being a hands on owner of the Caps and Bullets , yes Sir Bullets. Please make me care about this NBA team again. Our team is a Major joke in the League and it is or has been a hometown Washington/Baltimore humiliation for seemingly endless seasons.I know you are a winner not just in monetary worth but as a human being. I see it in every interview I read about you . You are like the fans you want to win too!!!!The Wizards name change is a good move. I leapt and screames I was so excited. Please bring back our history and our colors . Go major Retro with the unis and the fans will come back in droves. Thanks Sir!! Kenny Ford . Bullets Fever!!!!!!!!!

  18. I just wanted to say thank you for your hard work and dedication!

    My one suggestion for improvement would be to bring back the Eagle’s Nest section for Caps games. I believe someone else had mentioned this above as well. I think it would be a very smart decision! In this tough economy, I think this decision and offer would appeal to so MANY people and families on limited incomes and budgets. Please do more to consider your “less fortunate” fans because the 101 improvements list had a lot of improvements for VIP’s, season ticket holders, etc.

    Thanks Ted! Go Caps!!!! :)

  19. Dear Ted,

    What about adding “Do something nice for Wes”? Wes Johnson is a great arena announcer! He deserves some recognition from the Caps even though he is not on the team. Without him, how would we Rock the Red? He is the Verizon Center’s voice of the Caps and he is Caps Hockey!

    Section 419 loves Wes!

  20. Dear Ted: Please try to install spring toilet seats in the mens bathrooms. The alcoholic fans tend to urinate on seats left down. Its disgusting!

  21. Ted,

    You rock. Love the stairs, beverage shelf, new uniforms, roaming beverages.

    Also, mood of vendors and staff is great – even had a staff member offer to hold my 6 month old so I could wash my hands between periods. Great people = great experience. Little things mean so much!

    Additional fix-it item: changing table in bathroom on 400 level has broken strap and doesn’t look like it has been cleaned (although it probably has – it’s just old).

    Anyway you can help those of us with little rockers find out about amenities in arena would be helpful!

    Thanks so much!

  22. The arena looks refreshed with the new paint (love the red stairs) and I noticed the arena vendors at Caps-preseason game (and they made trip up to my last row seat!) Very pleased to see some vegan options coming, thank you! Except Stanley Cup and maybe a cup holder in the stalls of the ladies rooms I’m ready to Rock the Red!

  23. I would like to see the Capitals reinstate the $10 eagle’s nest seats and to get rid of the premium pricing structure. The ticket prices have skyrocketed to the point that I, a Caps fan since I was 10, can no longer afford to go to games.

  24. Its great to have an owner in the area that cares about not only his players,but also his fans. We all know there’s at least one that doesn’t care so much.

    I think its a bit crazy that we have a team called the Wizards most teams have something to do with the city they are from ( ie The Capitals) How about something that has to do with them playing in the nation’s capital? if that’s not going to happen I’d like to see them wear red, as they are the only team that doesn’t wear any at all.

    My other concern with this list is that some of these things seem to only benefit “VIP”‘s everyone should feel special coming to the game, these are hard economic times and people still choose to come and support their team in person from the front row all the way to the very back of the 400′s
    Its always felt to me that you strive for this and I’d hate to see that change.

    If people want better giveaway items, I think you could do the food drive thing again, that way people get something cool, and people who need help benefit.

    Food vendors coming through the stands would be nice, It happens at Nationals games and the result is that I have to get up from my seat to let people go by a lot less.

    Speaking of people getting in and out of their seats, it seems the “Stop the puck’s in movement” thing has stopped nothing worse than having Ovi going for the net and someone needs to get by! remind people to get to their seats in a more timely fashion ( prior to the start of periods, while the puck’s not in motion) I think having food and beer vendors come through the stands would help this greatly.

    Thanks for all you do Ted!

  25. Ted, although I live outside the area now I’m still very happy to see this level of customer service for the fans. More organ, definitely! At least at Caps’ games. One very important item. I attended a concert at Verizon Center in spring 2009. I know that things have to be a bit looser at concerts, however I had a safety concern. Our seats wee in one of the end sections opposite the stage (104-107) The fans were allowed to congregate in the aisles, in fact the aisles were filled. The ushers were no where to be found. It made it nearly impossible to return to our nearly $100 seats in the dark after visiting the restroom and concessions. But it would have presented a definite safety hazard in case of an emergency.
    As for the popcorn, one of the four entrances at the Cap Centre had the most awesome fresh-popped corn ever. Find that guy!!
    Thanks for your presence and willingness to listen Ted, and good luck on bringing Lord Stanley to the nation’s capital this season!!!!!

  26. Ted – You’re doing great. But an FM station with a strong signal carrying the Caps would be a major plus for Caps fans all over the region.

    And one small — but not unimportant — item about food service at Verizon Center : How about having spicy deli mustard added to the condiment tables?
    The yellow mustard doesn’t quite make it for many hot dog and sausage lovers.

    Many thanks.

  27. Would you consider emphasizing our link to the Hershey Bears? With posters, handouts, Hershey candy for sale in the arena?

  28. Ted,
    Awesome job so far. Could you please lower the railing that sits in the actual sections…. like in front of 411 row H, near the aisle… by like 4 or 5 inches. It is in the way of watching the game and you always have to bob up and down to see the game when its on that side of the ice. It really affects the enjoyment of the game. You can even make it much thinner on the top rail or make clear and thinner. Please Please Please…
    Thanks!

  29. Ted: Wizards VIPs get free drinks and food, and Caps VIPs had lousy hot dogs, stale buns, a token veggie and cheese tray in the Coaches’ Club for Opening Night?

    Some deal for us…and to think, the face value of my seats in 1995 was $45 a game….

  30. I had heard about #59 and last night at our first partial plan game was hopeful…however, the ladies are to put our drinks…???? Would love to see bev. shelves in all bathrooms.

  31. Can we ask the Caps Fans to please wear RED. Advertise wearing RED. Every Game should be a RED out. Thanks!!!!

  32. Having been a Public Address Announcer in Baltimore for 22 years for the Blast, Bullets, Thunder and WWE Wrestling, I appreciate the atmosphere that you and your staff have created in the Verizon Center. And, having read you book, we both understand your philosophy and reasons for the consistent pleasure that you give to the fans when we attend Caps Hockey.

    Having Season Tickets for the Ravens (yes we are from Baltimore) the difference between their owner and you is like night and day. Since we can compare how each owner treats his fans, you are far and above the BEST owner we have come in contact with.

    To sum up our feelings about you, we can use only two words. YOU CARE!!!! Don’t ever stop. It makes us proud to say that we are Capitals Season Tickets Holders.

    Oh, by the way, you might be surprised how many Caps fans you have in Baltimore.

    Bill & Kathy Rothe

  33. Ted,

    I love all you are doing. You are undoubtedly the BEST owner in ANY pro sport(s).

    One thing I would like to see is 2 “real honest-to-God” decibel meters. We had these in the Cap Center and it let the fans know how much noise they were making, as opposed to the canned meters that show on the video screen.

    Thanks for ALL your efforts.

    Dave Farris
    Caps STH, Section 407-K-5&6

  35. Thanks for all you do and for taking input from the fans. We definitely noticed many of these changes during the past few CAPS games.

  37. Please please please create a taxi stand directly outside Verizon Center. It is nearly impossible to get a cab after a Caps game. You have to walk sometimes 4-5 blocks away to get a cab and at 9:45 at night on a week night – that’s not always the safest thing to do when you’re a woman and you’re alone. Most of the arenas located in major metropolitan areas have cab stands! Denver, Boston, Chicago, New York… We need one!!!

  38. I have to comment on the beer sales. You have raised the prices on beer this year from $7.50 to $8.00, in addition you have done away with draft beer served in 24oz cups and gone with beer in 16oz cans. So now we are paying MORE for LESS beer… about a 34% increase, quite honestly that’s a move I’d expect from Dan Snyder and the Redskins not Ted Leonsis and the Capitals! I am hoping you bring the draft beer back, if you insist on keeping cans at least drop the price, even at $6.00 you’d be increasing profits without gouging your fans.

    From a Caps full season ticket holder!

  39. Caps fans, Mr Leonsis, I come from France, and on Nov 3rd to Nov 7th, I come espacially in Washington to see Caps games against Toronto, Boston and Phillie and Wizzard game against Knicks. And one of the reason I appreciate coming in DC is the Verizon Center. The fans are amazing, the atmosphere is incredible. It’s the third straight year I’m coming. All these red jerseys are so impressive… All the new improvments in the Arena seem to be good and I want to thank you for you investissement in the Caps and Wizzards organizations. Sébastien, Paris, France.

  41. RE: Indoor Fireworks

    The fireworks used during player introductions before the start of the game leaves a smoky haze up in the 400s section for nearly the whole first quarter. Perhaps cleaner effects such as laser lights could be considered if this is a complaint you have heard frequently.

  42. how’bout change the name wizard to bullizard, i know it’s not a word, but it sounds like “blizzard”, and pays homage to bullets and wizard…

  43. I noticed on your web this entry on 101 signs of visible change, “80. Additional TDD offerings at the Verizon Center”. National Capitol Interpreting Services has over 20 years of experience in the field of interpreting and working with individuals who are Deaf in a variety of settings.

    We would love to assist you in any way we can in improving services for your Deaf and hard-of-hearing patrons.

    Mark T. Kreidler
    703-231-3461

  44. Hi Ted,

    Thanks for the forum.

    I to would like to voice my concern regarding the broadcast of Caps games on the radio/web. When I lived in the DC area it was always frustrating trying to get a decent signal from the AM radio broadcast. Now that I live on the west coast this problem persists via the same program albeit a web feed. The real shame is that if you tune in the opposing teams broadcast it always sounds 10 times better than that of the Caps. Really, really better. And while I enjoy listening to Caps games regardless who’s doing the play-by-play I enjoy it coming from the local commentators the best and the Caps deserve better coverage. Thank you. In my opinion hockey is #1 and the Caps and their fans deserve much better. GO CAPS!!

  45. Ted,
    You’re doing a fantastic job and by far you are the BEST owner in DC. Can we see about getting the CAPS coverage on an FM station? Trying to listen to them on AM is painful to say the least. Thanks for the consideration. GO CAPS!!

  46. Ted,

    Thank you for actually listening to the fans to make improvements on the things that matter to us. I could not be more pleased that an announcement is made to let those that don’t know that sitting back in the seat lets those behind them see the ice. That’s a HUGE improvement for short people like myself. Run that announcement as a reminder a few times a game, not just before the game or during an intermission, until everyone is on board.
    One thing that is appreciated but confusing is having the Good Sport cart next to a beer-only vendor. As stated, I appreciate the effort made to keep everyone safe but having it next to a fountain-soda vendor just seems like the proper placement.
    I am pleased to be a co-owner of Caps season tickets for the past few years and look forward to further improvements under your tutelage. Thanks for all you do and will continue to do. I wish you well.

  48. Ted, I’m happy with all of the fixes you are making. Your focus is on the Fan Experience. Yet I was very upset to see the premium pricing for tonight’s home opener. I called the Caps ticket office and was told it was a simple matter of supply and demand. I know the supply of tickets is limited to what the arena can accommodate, but I haven’t heard one fan demand that prices in the 400 sections be over $100. I’m sure all busines majors will feel this is naive on my part, but to charge over $100 in the upper deck tonight, and $46 for Monday night isn’t enhancing the Fan Experience. I’ll be cheering the Caps in high def from home, where I can afford the ticket.

  49. Ted,

    I am so excited for the Caps season to be underway, and you have a lot to be proud of with this team.

    With all respect, I would like to ask you one thing, which is about the radio coverage for the Caps. I try to pick up the Caps games often on 1500 AM, and honestly, the station’s signal has horrible quality in Northern Virginia, especially in the Reston/Fairfax area where I am typically trying to listen. For big chunks of time I could not hear anything but static, and I feel bad that our fantastic hockey team can’t find a partner of a decent FM station that could be broadcasting our games. Last night, I found at least 2 FM crystal clear FM stations broadcasting the baseball playoffs, and those teams don’t even involve the DC/Baltimore area.

    Thanks for anything you can do to help those of us trying to catch the Caps on radio.

  50. Dear Ted, We’ve had Caps season tickets since the 1978-79 season, and over the years have endured many ups and downs, changes in management, coaches, and players. Living now on very limited income, we’re ever so pleased that you’ve kept the (cheap seat) prices as low as you have. It’s such a pleasure, watching the changes you’ve implemented, and especially sharing in the excitement of today’s Washington Capitals. Go Caps!

  51. Ted,
    I appreciate your proactive approach to making our fan experience the best it can be. I missed the opportunity to email you,maybe I still can, but I too, as was mentioned above, would appreciate the turning down of the lights during the Caps game, I really miss the atmosphere of the old Captial Centre, where the lights were down and the only thing you saw was the game. Please re-establish that wonderful atmosphere. And also, improve the quality and amount of Capitals games stadium giveaways. Thank you!

  52. Hey Ted,

    I love your approach and how you’re going to make sure The Wizards start winning again.
    BUT
    The reason why the “Bullets” changed their name is a very good reason and the crime rate in DC is still much higher than it should be
    BUT
    I hate the name “Wizards” it doesnt make sense, SO I PROPOSE
    the new Name should be

    THE WASHINGTON BULLET TRAINS

    IT makes obvious sense with the recent investment by the US Government in Amtrak to become the fastest trains in the world.

    I hope you consider these changes

  53. Ted, once again you have put this franchise at the top of caring about your fans. Go Caps!

  54. Mr. Leonsis,

    Thank you for being the best owner we could ever ask for.

    Chris Schmidt

  55. I commend you Ted. This is a perfect example of progress being made to change the face of a club in the first 100 days no less. As a lifelong New Yorker I often wished our local basketball teams really truly showed they cared about the fans and their patronage. You sir get it. I wish you the best of success.

    I’m even considering coming down for a game or two this season.

  56. Ted,
    I hope by “improving lighting” you mean turning the lights in the stands way down. As far as I know, it’s the only arena where you feel as if you are in a doctor’s office. The painfully bright flourescent lights take away from the atmosphere. Please make it dark in the stands like in every other arena I’ve ever been to. The result will be better atmosphere and a louder arena. Oh yeah, bring back the name “Bullets”!

  59. Ted,
    I like all the changes you are making. It’s great the rare times sports owners listen to the fans. Living here in Phoenix, though, I have to hope you don’t make the Wizards TOO good, as I want the Suns to win it all.
    That is, of course, unless you take a look at my son, who just graduated and played at a small college in Kansas. I still think he could make it in the NBA if given a chance. I promise to cheer for you if you sign him…

  60. Ted,

    We all welcome your fresh take on everything at Verizon. I’m looking forward to testing out the “beverage shelf” in the bathroom Monday night.

    I also like the idea of vendors in the stands for one key reason: incentive. Those vendors are motivated to sell because they get a cut of everything they sell.

    This motivation does not seem to trickle down to the people that staff the static concession stands. We end up standing in long lines and miss the game and/or intermission entertainment while we wait for the staff to slowly fill our orders.

    My humble suggestion is to rework the pay system to include incentive for these concession workers as well. They could work in teams (one handles order, two gather food/drink) and earn a percentage of their sales. Of course, their base salary would be reduced, but this would provide the motivation to blow through the lines as quick as possible. It would be like any server at a restaurant who has a personal stake in your experience.

    I know that I would be far more likely to purchase food and drink at a game if it doesn’t interfere with my enjoyment of the action and experience. I’d expect that changing the paradigm would not only increase customer satisfaction and reward dedicated concession personnel, but it would also increase raw concession revenue.

    Thanks for listening.

  61. You rock Ted!!! Thanks for making an already great experience at the Verizon Center for my beloved Caps games even better. We are so lucky to have an owner that cares so much about his product. I am not really a basketball fan, but I think the things you are doing for the Wizards are great and you never know maybe I will come out to a game!

    GO CAPS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  62. Incredible Ted! You are an amazing owner, and I am proud to be a season ticket holder. The new improvements are so refreshing. The arena has improved so much since your leadership started.

    Keep up the Great Work!

    John

  63. Yay!!! Ted, you are the best ower of professional teams ever! I love that the fans of your teams not only have access to you and your staff, but you really listen to our ideas and take our complaints seriously. You did such a great job reinvigorating the Caps, and I can’t wait to see what your changes will do for the Wizards and Mystics. And I would love to see our basketball team called the Bullets again. I understand why the name change was made several years ago, but the Bullets were part of DC’s history and culture. There is nothing magical or mythical about our “Wizards.” It has to go. And the Mystics could use a name change and better visibility in this city.

  64. Go Ted Go! I have already seen the improvements in my CAPS experience, and I will DEFINITELY have to get to a Wizards game this season. I hope its more of a professional and enjoyable experience than the ones I’ve had at previous Wizards games. I was always amazed how even at the same venue as the Caps, a Wizards game felt 3rd rate.

    Keep it up!

  65. Why red, white & blue we are not a flag red & white, blue & white, red & yellow or green & gold are better I know we are in DC but there are enough flag teams let’s be different.

  69. Ted:

    Awesome job to you and the management and customer service teams. Please remember to tell Dick specifically that many of us really appreciate his role in all of this.

    Also, thank you for continuing to have transparency by openly communicating what is happening. I am a Caps STH and subscribe to most pubs, but somehow had missed the 101 list until now. Finding it here is just what I needed to be wired for the home opener Saturday evening.

  70. I saw the Bullets win the championship in 1978. The name of the team should never have changed. Please, Ted, bring back the real name of this team: BULLETS!

  71. I’m not even a Wizards fan (or really an NBA fan in general) but this sounds like a great step forward. Good luck with the team Ted, the improvements sound amazing. I wish all sports franchises would listen to their fans (maybe that’s why the Rays only get 15,000 people at a normal game?).

    Great job Ted, you’ve got tons of potential with the Wizards, all you need to do is get the team off and running which I see happening this year with future star John Wall. Good luck in the future.

  73. Ted,

    As a lifelong DC area sports fan, I gotta say that you are everything a fan could ask for in an owner. You care about making the fans happy as well as making a buck and you recognize the way to do that is investing in the team and the fans’ experience. No chance you could buy the Redskins or Orioles is there?

  74. I’m a die-hard NBA fan, not necessarily a Wizards fan, but one of my favorite players from my formative years was Bernard King, in the BULLETS jersey. Not only that, Wes Unseld, of my University of Louisville Cardinals, was a BULLET! Please bring back the Bullets name and restore order.

  75. Ted

    Good job, I am from Dallas and like M. Cuban, but I give you props for trying to improve your franchise

  76. 1. I always hated the name “Bullets,” though I never knew the name came from a now-non-existant train. Let it go, please. Commentor #1 has good suggestions that fit a real citywide theme.

    2. I am a bit offended to hear you say that training camp is, “here in Northern Virginia,” as though DC is in Northern VA. It is not. (It’s kinda like having a check-mark in a “completed” column, and then saying “in-development.”) I like that camp is closer, and I understand appreciating the GMU hospitality, but can you add some relationships with DC-based colleges (Howard, Georgetown, or George Washington)?

    3. Most importantly, please do bring down some of the ticket prices for all Verizon Center events. You will find that scalping will cease on its own (and sold-out events will increase) when the average Washingtonian can afford legitimate seats.
    Thank you.

  77. Mr. Leonsis is first class and runs the organization like it. Well done! Every email that I have sent him he has responded to it (sometimes in the early morning hours).

  79. Keep up the great work Ted. Great things start happening when the people at the top are setting the example. You and your staff are doing an awesome job. Things are changing for the better, and I’m proud to call myself a DC sports fan.

    If I can address one thing… I know one of the more talked about topics in your list is the “Wizards” team name. I know that if you do decide to change it, that it will be a long process of petitioning the league and what not, but if you do decide to change it, I do suggest something that has to do with the immediate surrounding DC area. There are plenty of AWESOME options, and I’m sure you’ve heard your share of them.

    But, since you’re changing the colors, my instincts tell me you may have already decided to change the name, since red, white, and blue may probably not be the best scheme for the “Wizards” name. Just my opinion.

  80. After considering the name change to bullets, I ask that you put in an offer on the redskins… All joking aside, I am glad to see dc sports on the rise. Maybe espn will finally recognize us with espndc.com once we arrive.

    Go Bullets Go DC Sports

  81. I love the idea of changing the name back to the Bullets! Wizards sounds very childish, and un-masculine. The logo is ugly and the colors are disgusting. Time for a change.

  82. i know this might be expensive. and it is a lot to ask for. but change the seats from purple to red. we are not the lakers. red would look awesome in the seats. and especially when the jerseys switch colors. red and blue will look good on the court. also caps need the alternate blue jerseys. i have an idea. what about a club. say on the club level. after the games have like a really cool club. like a dance club for people to go and celebrate and party some more after the games.
    name ideas. washington power. washington energy. washington congress. washington chill. washington nomads. washington presidents.

  83. Please change the name back to the Bullets. I know at least three people waiting to buy a John Wall jersey if the name changes. The city will really fall behind the team with a new name. You will also be forever loved in D.C. for it, although your already doing a hell of a job with the caps.

  87. What a great development! An owner who listens (and cares) about the fans. I saw this on Yahoo and read it all the way through. I’m not a basketball fan, and certainly not a Caps fan, but this is a great example to the other owners out there. Good work!

    P.S. Go Red Wings!

  88. Wonderful work on the upgrades and updates Mr. Leonsis! I’ve heard in the past few years that the ice at Verizon Center is at a league worst (or close to it) in terms of playing conditions. Anything you are doing to remedy that?

  90. A team name is to violent, really? It’s a team name and a part of NBA history, that’s it. It doesn’t have any implications past that. There are countless other professional and collegiate teams that use spears, tomahawks, and various other weapons. Are these symbols to violent as well? I think your being a little to hypersensitive to a team name.

  91. Please change the name back to the Bullets! The old name and colors were superior to today’s look. Take a look at the new Caps jersey’s and how they resemble the older ones; they look great too!

  92. For anyone who is not a Caps fan you are in for a big surprise. Ted and his group are the most fan focused owners in any sport. Just give him a little time, he will bring in top talent and will provide the best environment.

    The Caps are a world class organization now because of Ted. The Lakers and Celtics better check what is coming up in the rear view mirror!

  93. CHANGE THE NAME BACK TO BULLETS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  94. Thank you, Ted, for everything you are doing and have done to make Verizon Center and the area around it so much better! I am a 3rd-yr Caps season ticket holder, so it’s really nice to see the improvements.

    Like Abby mentioned above, I was hoping to see the over-3 yr old piece of gum on my chair gone, but alas, it was still there. Maybe there can be a system where we can report specific locations/seats that need cleaning? I would hate for any of my Caps gear to rub against it and get ruined. :) Thanks again, Ted, you are full of awesome!!

  95. To those who think the Bullets name is too violent, what is so violent about a train? Do some homework. The team was named after a train called the Baltimore Bullet, back when they were….you guessed it….the Baltimore Bullets.

    That brings up why I don’t think Bullets is a good name. it’s a Baltimore name. It should be left in Baltimore.

  96. I’m not in or from the Washington area. I linked to this story off of ESPN. I read the 101 points, and I am impressed with your team’s owners. Being in and from Phoenix AZ we know a thing or two about great owners and bad owners. Great job Mr. Leonsis

  97. One more suggestion if Bullets is too controversial — how about changing the name back to the Zephyrs or Packers? The team started out as the Chicago Packers in 1961-1962 and then changed their name to the Chicago Zephyrs from 62-63 before moving to Baltimore and becoming the Bullets.

    Otherwise Generals or Senators would work too. But hopefully it will be Bullets. Anything but Wizards!

  98. As a Caps season ticket holder, I’m most excited about more vegetarian options! Thanks, Ted!

  99. How about having a country wide contest to change the name of the team? Bullets is to violent in this day and age. And the Wizards name was just lame. Offer a cash prize. Many teams spend tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.

  101. I think this is a great start to the Leonsis era, but the best thing the Bullets (I’ve never changed the name in my mind, I graduated high school in 1978 and they’ll always be the Bullets) can do is WIN. This is the bottom line, the area will go crazy, multiply the frenzy over the Caps by 10. By the way GO CAPS!!!

    P.S.- Rock the Red, White, and Blue!!!

  102. Hi! I read the list but did not see “adding baby changing stations” to the Verizon’s restrooms. We share season tickets and getting access to the family restrooms can be a chore. Twice last year, the family restroom in the lower level was out of service and there was a line at the upper level family restroom. I can’t understand why there are no changing stations in regular restrooms, particularly since the Verizon Center hosts the circus (which all of us Caps fans hate because that results in few home games in March) and other family events. When I made this suggestion last season, Greg Moraes replies that it was up to Verizon’s management to address my concern. Now that you, Mr. Leonis, are Verizon’s big boss, I ask that you please look into this issue. Go Caps!

  105. As a Capitals STH I already think we had a great gameday experience, and you have found ways to make it better.

    Thanks for what you have done and what you continue to do to improve a fantastic product!

    To the Wizards fans…you are in for a real treat, Ted rocks!!

  106. Thanks Ted! I hope there is a way to change the name back to the Bullets and still respect Abe Pollin’s anti-violence message. Maybe you could time the name change with a big fiscal commitment to an anti-gun charity in the D.C. area?

    Go Caps and Go Bullets!

  107. Not only is the effort of an owner in building a franchise important, but the PERCEPTION that an owner cares about building a franchise is as well. Perception might be even more important, because a cursory glance is all many people give when looking at a team’s ownership practices. Thank you, Ted, for readily supplying both.

  108. Ted!
    Itsmbeen a long time since I was this excited about the ,Bullets” you are doing a great job. All we can ask is that the owners and mgmt have a good plan and stick to it. If you guys do half as well as you have done with the caps, Washington will have lots to be proud of
    Go bullets

  109. Ted,
    As a loyal Caps fan and vegetarian, I am very pleased to hear about the new vegetarian additions to the menus at VC. Any way you can elaborate as to what exactly you are changing/adding? It would be great to know to expect next time I come to a Caps game. Thanks for all of your hard work creating the best NHL experience that I believe the league has to offer!

  110. I am greatly exciterd for the change back to red, white and blue for the Bullets, I mean Wizards. I have been very reluctant to purchase any Wizards gear due to the dumb name and ugly design, and continue to only wear old throwback Bullets gear. I have two things to say about the uniform color change and possible name change.

    1. Please base the jersey colors and design off of the 77-78 championship design and color scheme. The 80′s and 90′s Bullet uniforms we god awful plain and bland but I guess that was the 80′s in general.

    2. If not the Bullets, please something that has to do with DC. I have personally always like the Generals as an alternate name but the Washington Generals have taken their fair share of beatings from the Globe Trotters, but “DC Generals” maybe? Something strong like “revolutionaries”(thats actually a damn good name I just came up with minus the length(revolution,revolutionary), Catch phrase “REV IT UP”. I think that fits nicely with the Capitals, United, Freedom, Nationals…

    Anyway just an idea. Im sure you have read tons of emails just like this one complaining about the lameness of the Wizards name. Thank You so much for listening to the fans and actually acting on our requests. I am looking forward to Rocking the Red at Caps games this season and doing the John Wall dance at Bullets game, I mean wizards games.

    Kris Robison

  111. Wow, thanks Ted! You really did listen to the fan feedback. I really hope the name change back to “Bullets” moves to “in-development” soon!

  112. Thanks for all of your hard work Ted. And, we appreciate the transparency and responsiveness. It’s clear that you know how to develop and manage a successful franchise and I’m looking forward to you helping right this ship.

    Cheers,
    John

  113. #31! #31! #31! #31! #31! Even if it’s not changed to Bullets, change to, well… anything. The next Washington fan I talk to who genuinely likes the name Wizards will be the first.

  114. Mr. Leonsis and staff,

    I want to personally thank you all for the attention to detail as well as attention to fans that has been displayed since your direct involvement with the Wizards began. I am in the US Navy and from the DC area and a devoted fan of the local teams especially skins/wizards. I have made valiant efforts to watch wizards games regardless of my location and I buys tickets whenever I am in town and there is a game, so its great to see a new owner put in the same and even more effort. Abe was great but this generation needed a ‘young stud’ like yourself LOL! Again thanks and keep up the good work.
    ps GO CAPS!

  115. Hello Ted,

    Impressive list of to dos with many tasks accomplished! I wanted to request salad options in the food concessions (I know vegetarian may meet this). There are not many options for the heart healthy eater. We love what you are doing with the CAPS (we are season ticket holders) and appreciate your taking the time to listen to fans!

    Regards,

    Mary

  117. Amazing! Well done. Thx for the gluten free.
    See you at the games.
    Go Gil, go Caps
    JU

  118. I would definitely like to see the Wizards go back to the Bullets, the shame should have never changed. There’s so much history and tradition with the Bullets.

  119. Don’t know if this came up in the list of requests, but Splash Guards between the urinals would be GREATLY appericiated.

  120. Mr. Leonsis – if you change the name back (and I really hope you do), perhaps you can arrange for Nils Lofgren to give us an updated version of “Bullets Fever!”

    Here’s to a great season!

  121. i live in brazil, follow the nba closely and “my” team is the cleveland cavaliers, but i couldn’t read all this and not say anything.

    congratulations mr. leonsis. i don’t know your history, but this is something a basketball franchise and its fans deserve. may you guys have a great season.

    cheers!

  122. The food concession stands on the club level (200) are really awful. please replace them with the ones on the ground floor – they are so much better.

  123. I’m a full plan holder and I’m excited to have seats for 43 games this season. I love young John W, but is Gilbert coming back to be Gilbert? Gilbert is still the heart of this team and the team’s best player. He appears not to want to be in Washington. Granted, the Wiz overplayed the whole media purging of Gilbert, but is he willing/able to put last year’s incident behind him and move forward? Without him this team is less than mediocre. Perhaps fun to watch, but not a playoff contender. He is my favorite Wizard & NBA player, so I hope he handles his return well.

  124. Ted:

    Thank so much for working so hard and accomplishing so much in a short time.

    As an 11 year Caps season ticket holder it irks me that I am charged a fee to print out or e-mail my own tickets. Surely the cost to the Ticketmaster franchise is negligible. While I’m sure it’s a money-maker, it is on the backs of the fans and especially your most loyal fan base. It most definitely undermines a sense I might otherwise get that being a season ticket holder is appreciated and valued by the organization. I spend thousands each year on the Caps, and yet I’m nickled and dimed just to offer the experience to a friend or colleague when I want to share my tickets with them. Can this change, at very least for the STH’s?

    Thanks for your consideration.

    Thanks.

    Jonathan

  125. Restore Gilbert Arenas back to his stature. I work on 8th & G and the former owners stripping him down, was disgraceful. I know he made a mistake but he didn’t kill anyone and that action in it self perpetuated the media and destroyed this young man’s love of the game. After all he was a part of the big three, the highest scoring trio in the NBA for several years. He is still a huge face of this team, not do discredit John Wall, but you can’t discard him. He’s the reason this town started watching basketball since the NBA title in 1978. As the new owner you can turn this team and this town around by supporting Gilbert. If Wall goes down, who’s your man then? Glad to see you’re paying homage to the past players.

  126. Dear Ted

    As a former, long-time season ticket holder (I live in Poland now) I really appreciate the steps you are taking to revitalize the Wizards/Bullets and the game experience at Verizon Center.

    In addition to the fine effort you are making to reach out to Wizard/Bullet alumni, have you considered retiring any other players’ numbers? I think Phil Chenier is long overdue for this type of recognition.

  127. Ted,

    U rock. I am a 40 year Bullets/Wizards fan going back to the Capital Centre days – when it was a state of the art arena.

    Would love to see the Bullets name come back. There is a ton of history and success under that name and would be a great way to reconnect with the alumni and re-energize a dormant fan base.

    My 2 cents

    Do the “John Wall” Baby

    Eric

  128. thanks ted. you are doing a good job and we appreciate your active ownership! i agree with wilbon’s comments about arenas the other day. nobody wants to spend a year worrying about whether he is happy or not. it’s not worth our time or attention. help him to just play ball, or ship him outta here.

  129. regarding line #31

    with great respect for Mr. Pollin, I just have to say changing to Wizards was a mistake. I still have “Bullet Fever” and I want to her the “Fat Lady” sing. Maybe let the fans vote with dollars. A dollar a vote that goes to a charity that Mr. Pollin supported that serves families or non-violence. I appreciate your leadership, thanks.

  130. This is truly amazing. I can’t imagine there being a better, more involved owner. Your interest in customer/fan support is, again, amazing. Please keep up the good work.

  131. I noticed that “More Community Involvement in Maryland” is listed as “In-development.” Can you be more specific, Mr. Leonsis?

    As a ticket holder from Prince George’s county, I try to keep up with how my community is impacted by the Wizards, and I know there is substantial interest in the team. Additionally, from my interaction with the community (I am the VP of a very large college alumni association in this area) I know that many local taverns, stores, etc., would like to develop some sort of mutually beneficial activity with the Wizards organization.

    I would be very interested in learning what sort of processes have been implemented thus far.

    -Ed Jackson

  132. Thanks for having this open process of fan-owner communication. It’s great seeing the fan suggestions being taken seriously. I’d like to see the Wizards arena experience be unique from other teams. They all do the same things. They play the same music, they do the same chants, it’s almost irrelevant that it’s a home game because the background is the same. Getting rid of the ubiquitous machine like “defense” chant is a start. I hope the Wizards (or the Bullets) develop a stadium culture that is uniquely Washington’s. So that opponents know the difference when they step in Verizon that they are in a different beast. Thank you for this process and I look forward to the season.

  133. I’m a nuggets fan actually but speaking from experience this type of front office transparency is really rare and actually something i’m fairly envious of. i really hope these changes improve the overall atmosphere of your games and influence other teams to follow suit. good luck this year.

  135. ted-i live in southern california and may not attend a game for years…but thank you for all the upgrades..love the red stairs

  137. Looks awesome, Ted. It’s a breath of fresh air to see the fans complaints being taken so seriously by ownership.

    Sure wish we had something like this in New Orleans.
    The demands would be simple-

    1. Give us an update on the status of the pending ownership transfer.

    Oh, that’s all there is…

    Really though, most teams would be lucky to have you as the owner. Our guys don’t even make public statements, let alone blog.

  138. Not to be a bother because I think this is a great idea. But whats the point of the completed column if everything on the list has been completed?

    Otherwise, great to see that a franchise is catering (to an extent) to the fans/publics requests. Hope the goodluck keeps raining down for us Wiz fans.

  139. I think a good idea Ted would be to give all the fans a Citylifecard to promote savings by supporting the local businesses in the Dc area.

  140. Hello,
    I think this would be incredibly sweet to do: On opening night, have in person and introduce every single member of the Bullets 1977-78 championship team. Have the introductions the same as a game. “Now starting at center, Wes Unseld!!!!!! At power forward, Elvin Hayes!!!!! I think everyone would love it. And if you want to really talk about emotional I have one more thought. But you’d have to keep it secret until the instant it happens. After the 1978 champion Bullets are introduced, now introduce the 2010-11 Bullets!!!!!!! Way more powerful if no one knows in advance.
    Thanks for reading. Good luck on the season.

  141. Seems many of these ’101′s’ were directed at the VIP or season ticket holders, and/or the Wizards. As a life long CAPS fan, I would like to see things done so that more people can afford to go to games and experience the great game of hockey and the great Capitals team. Nowhere have a seen you take steps to decrease or at least maintain prices, whether it be concession, novelty items, parking or tickets. Used to be able to get a ticket to a game for 10 or 20 bucks. Now you are looking at 50 at a minimum, and that is not even a premium or even midlevel game. You are pricing out the average joe to attend a game. If I take just my son (let alone my whole family) I am looking at a minimum of $150! A little pricey if you ask me.

  142. Hi Ted -

    I am a former Bullets/Wizards ticket holder who has sadly relocated to DC but will be loyal to the team for life… ( I even drove down for Midnight Madness cos I had to be there !) So far you are doing an amazing job in your stewardship of the team… Three small comments –
    1) changing the team back to the Bullets would be amazing.
    2) Gilbert Arenas is still very much in the hearts of many of the team’s fans.
    3) Sign Lester Hudson – he’s cold blooded !
    Thanks for all your doing for a great franchise – guy

  144. Thanks Ted for all you do and have done. I share a Washington Capitals season ticket with my sister and we enjoyed the Caps Convention last Saturday. After seeing you cleaning the Verizon Center with the staff over the off-season, I was just a little disappointed that the same piece of gum was still stuck on my seat from last season when we attended the first pre-season game last Tuesday. Just one of those annoying little things.

    Looking forward to the first regular season home game. Go Caps!

    Abby
    Section 426
    Row E
    Seat 11

  145. Thanks for putting in wifi. However, for some reason it does not work on my Verizon Droid. I can get wifi elsewhere, but I can’t connect to fan access at the Verizon Center. I know other droid owners who have the same problem, so it isn’t my phone. Please look into this! Thanks so much.

  146. Yes, bring back the Bullets. I have never stopped calling them the Bullets and my sons now call them that. Wizards was never the right name. I understand why Abe Pollin did it, it was a nice gesture, but there were/are bigger reasons for that violence. The Bullets are the Bullets.

  147. Great work. You all are amazing. I am wondering if anyone has suggested you talk to DC government to see if 3 hour parking on street near Verizon is possible and if meters can be converted to accept credit cards. Would be nice. Now its two hour limit and takes change with $2.00 per hour lots of quarters nickels and dimes must be scavenged for each game.

    Thanks.

  148. Thank you Ted for all that you do and being a forward-thinking owner. My family very much enjoyed the Wizards Fan Fest. Again, thank you.

  149. We are 2nd year Capitals Season Ticket Holders and we have had a great time watching the Caps soar. It’s also nice that we can afford seats, albeit on the 4th level, on a teacher’s salary. So we just had a few more ideas for you for the Verizon Center. One, we never seem to have hot water in the bathroom faucets on the 4th level, which is particularly uncomfortable during the winter. Also from where we sit in section 428, we can not see any of the out of town scoreboards because we sit off to the right of one and the other is blocked by the Capitals’ retired jerseys. We would like it if the the out of town scores were put up on the jumbotron a few times during each period or if more scoreboard were installed so we could see the out of town scores. Thanks.

  150. Mr. Leonsis, you are the best owner in basketball and hockey and I don’t know how to thank you. I guess buying tickets is a way to start. :)

    The one thing that has alienated some old basketball fans of the Wiz is the name. With the Bullets, the name was classic in itself, it had a history, the look was classic also. When the name changed to the Wizards, it became something silly, pointless. I understood why the name did change but it became something that was just laughable, to people in DC and around the country. We need a name that strikes fear into the hearts of opponents again. The logo needs to change if the name remains. Simplify. Make it something recognizable. If I see a random picture of a wizard with a basketball, I don’t think of the Washington Wizards, I think of it as a real dumb looking drawing or logo.

    Anyway, thanks for hearing me rant.

    Vasu

  151. Thanks, Hoping to see the results. I am glad that I was able to start a partial season ticket plan this year after seeing these improvements.

  152. Promoting the drinking of water is important, especially for fans who have been drinking alcohol. Charging $4 for a bottle of water is not justifiable. Please reduce the cost of a bottle of water. It is the right thing to do!

  153. Huge Caps and Wiz fan.I love what you are doing as Owner and consider you the best in the NBA and NHL :) .I only have one wish to ask you.Can you make your way up the beltway and buy the Baltimore Orioles please? :)

  154. Good going, Boss. But item #1 is to produce a club that (like the Caps) can win and compete for the long haul. Thank you for taking time to pay attention to the “little things”, however a winning club, TRUMPS all.
    We have a first-class team owner, now.

  155. Less random discounting of tickets? Thats the only way I can go to Wizards games. I like most of the changes but none of it benefits us poor folks. I like Ted a lot but it seems like at least Abe focused more on the less fortunate and Ted more on season tickets sales. Thanks.

  156. Great list and the improvements are noticeable; however, maybe the ones “in-development” should be marked with a “yellow” check instead of a green one – green indicates that is completed.

    Keep plugging away!!

  157. Repeating a simple suggestion I’ve made once before:

    The American flag hanging in the rafters is somewhat in the dark. Given this, a spotlight should be placed on flag during the singing of the National Anthem, at least when there isn’t a color guard with a flag on the floor (usually not at Caps games at least). Nice touch, easy to do–the spotlight guys are usually up there at that time anyway.

  158. great to see you have done so much. how about the name “senator’s” instead of bullets?

  160. Ted, thank you for your continued efforts to improve the professional sports teams of Washington. Your commitment to the team and city is not unnoticed.

    However, I wanted to ask whether or not you felt that it is appropriate to mark so many of those as “Completed” when they are still in development. Items like “Additional iPhone applications” shouldn’t be marked as completed until there are new applications. I can understand marking them as “Started”, but “Completed” implies that they are finished, not in progress. This list just seems to be a little misrepresenting. Again, I don’t want to take away from all the work that you and your team put into making Verizon Center and the Wizards/Caps organizations much better, I just think the wording above is misleading.