All of us with the Minnesota Twins couldn’t be more pleased with the public reaction to the design of Target Plaza – the gateway to Target Field. Formally approved at Friday’s Minnesota Ballpark Authority meeting, Target Plaza promises to be a welcoming place for Twins fans, North Loop residents, downtown workers and commuters. The dynamic public gathering space – connected to the urban grid by the 6^th Street extension – is yet another example of what will make Target Field one of America’s best ballparks.

Beyond the baseball bat themed topiaries, the pitching mound planters, the bronze baseball glove, the green space or the sweeping roof canopies, Target Plaza may best be known for the following elements:

·         Wind Veil — Amazingly simple, the wind veil is certain to create a lot of buzz, in addition to covering the expanse known as the “B” Parking Garage. It will be made of 9,000-plus baseball card shaped flaps designed to move with the wind. I had the opportunity to visit a similar installation in Charlotte, NC and couldn’t believe just how mesmerizing this kinetic art truly is. One of Minnesota’s largest pieces of public art, the Target Plaza wind veil will feature a multitude of LED lights creating all kinds of creative options. Look for the wind veil to be installed later this year – a few months before Opening Day 2010.

·         Twins Tradition Wall – Since approval of the ballpark in May of 2006, many fans have inquired about the creation of a fan recognition program at Target Field. Many ballparks feature “brick paver” programs giving fans the opportunity to imbed a special message at the ballpark for eternity. Over the past several months the Twins have worked with the Target Plaza designers — Oslund and Associates and HOK Sport – with hopes of creating a fan recognition program consistent with the look and feel of Target Field. The result of that work is the Twins Tradition Wall — which will border Target Plaza at the Twins Ticket Office and the 7^th Street Gate entrance – and will feature the names of Twins fans and every Twins player in the history of the franchise. Fans across Twins Territory will soon have the opportunity to reserve their place on the Twins Tradition Wall along with the names of Puckett, Killebrew, Carew, Hrbek, Mauer and Morneau. Stay tuned for more details.

·         Legend Statues – One element of Target Plaza certain to draw a crowd – both on game day and non-game days – will be bronze statues of legendary Twins players.  Much like statues outside of many ballparks across America, the Target Plaza player statues will become destination in and of themselves. Again the team has worked with the design architects to concept a creative approach to bronze statues. Look for more details soon as it relates to the specific location and designated players.

·         Met Stadium Flag Pole – The team remains committed to finding a home for the original flag pole from Metropolitan Stadium. Current plans call for the Met Stadium flag pole to be placed on the Target Plaza 6^th Street pedestrian walkway near First Avenue.

Target Field Notes: Newly appointed head groundskeeper Larry DiVito starts his new role with the Twins on Monday (February 23^rd). Beyond getting up to speed on the plans for the playing field install, Larry’s first tasks with the Twins will involve travel. He will soon travel to Fort Myers to engage with the Lee County Sports Complex grounds team (including the legendary George Toma) in addition to travelling to Colorado to check in on the Target Field grass … Look for the Twins to make another Target Field-related major sponsorship announcement in the next 7-10 days … As work begins to craft plans for Opening Day 2010, the Twins will have representatives on hand for the inaugural opening day’s at both the new Yankee Stadium and Citi Field.

Win Twins!!!!

Dave St. Peter

Next to Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau, the most popular feature at TwinsFest ’09  — scheduled for Friday-Sunday, January 23-25 at the Metrodome — is bound to be the interactive Target Field display. Current and prospective season ticket holders as well as general fans won’t want to miss this opportunity to get the most up-to-date look at Minnesota’s new ballpark. Fans will have the opportunity to check out views from every seat in the house thanks to the dynamic Balena technology. Located near on the Metrodome floor near the Twins dugout, the expanded exhibit will feature a summary of Minnesota’s ballpark history, the Target Field  model, the actual seats to be installed later this year, an updated on the playing field installation and much, much more. Make plans now to attend TwinsFest ’09 – the largest team-run fan festival in all of Major League Baseball.

Twins Ballpark Notes: Everyone with the Twins organization was touched by the outpouring of support in the wake of team owner Carl Pohlad’s recent passing. The team is now working with the Pohlad family to develop options to honor Mr. Pohlad’s legacy at Target Field. Don’t be surprised if the new facility features multiple tributes to two of the Twins greatest fans — Carl and Eloise Pohlad … The team has not yet determined the home of TwinsFest ’10 scheduled for January of next year. Options continue to include the Metrodome, Target Center, the Minneapolis Convention Center and Mall of America … The deadline has passed for current season ticket holders to return their Target Field Seat Relocation Questionnaire (SRQ). This information is critical as the team continues preparations to begin transitioning season ticket holders to the new ballpark in the spring of this year. Season ticket holders not yet returning their SRQ should do so immediately … The team is entering the final stages for two of the most important hires in club history – the Head Groundskeeper and the Concessions/Merchandise General Manager. Both posts are central to the successful operation of Target Field. I’m thrilled to report that there are several highly experienced candidates. More to come in the near future … Look for the Twins and Target Corporation, in conjunction with the Minnesota Ballpark Authority, to soon unveil the enhanced design for Target Plaza … Speaking of Target Corporation, the team and Target are also hard at work on the development of a co-branded ballpark logo and various signage applications throughout the ballpark … The Twins family is absolutely thrilled to have US Bank on board as the team’s first Founding Partner for Target Field. As the Official Hometown Bank of the Twins, US Bank shares the team’s values such as winning tradition, work ethic, community, civic activation and customer service … Look for the team to make yet another major sponsorship announcement in the weeks to come.

Win Twins!!!!

Dave St. Peter

President

As we approach the close of 2008, one thing is perfectly clear. The coming week will bring multitudes of “Year in Review” blogs, columns and features.

This blog will be no different as we take a moment to look back at a memorable year in the world of the Twins-Hennepin County ballpark project.

With 2008 drawing to a close, Target Field is rising before our eyes in Minneapolis’ Warehouse District. The project is now fifty-percent complete, ahead of schedule and on budget.  The year’s milestones and highlights included the following:

January 23, 2008 – The first main concourse concrete pour is conducted along the 7th Street bridge side of the site.

February 12, 2008 – The Pohlad family announces plans to  fund $22 million in additional enhancements to the new ballpark. Upgraded components include exterior stone, the roof canopy, the scoreboard and more bathrooms and comfort areas.

February 26, 2008 – The Hennepin County Board approves a $22 million increase in the cost of the new Twins ballpark to be paid by the Twins ownership.

April 8, 2008 – The Twins announce an eight-year partnership with Delaware North Companies Sportservice to provide all food, beverage and retail merchandise service at the new ballpark in downtown Minneapolis.

April 20, 2008 – The Minnesota Ballpark Authority approves the creation of the Ballpark District Enhancements and Public Art Incentive Fund for off-site district enhancements that reach beyond the ballpark site’s “footprint.” The board authorized the allocation of up to $1 million from the MBA’s interest earnings on construction bond proceeds to fund this effort.

September 10, 2008 – Twins announce plans to make a pitch to host Major League Baseball’s All-Star Game in 2014 in cooperation with the City of Minneapolis, Hennepin County, Meet Minneapolis and the Minnesota Ballpark Authority.

September 15, 2008 – Target Corporation and the Minnesota Twins announce an agreement in principle on an exclusive 25-year partnership that includes the naming rights for Target Field.

September 18, 2008 – Twins announce the season ticket seat relocation process outlining the season ticket holder transition from the H.H.H. Metrodome to Target Field. In conjunction with the season ticket relocation plan, the team also unveiled the season ticket pricing structure for the inaugural season at Target Field.

October 13, 2008 – Twins launch second Target Field webcam located on the roof of the Ford Centre at the northeast corner of the ballpark.

October 23, 2008 – Twins announce that Daktronics has been selected to design and build a multimillion dollar, integrated video, scoring and advertising display system at Target Field.

September 2008 – Work commences to place steel which will hold the Terrace Level seating as well as the Roof Canopy.

November 20, 2008 – Final concrete pour on the Terrace Level, a full two-plus months ahead of schedule.

Yes, 2008 has been quite a year for Target Field and baseball fans across Twins Territory. While that excitement builds, there is no question that 2008 will pale in comparison to 2009 as we march closer to Opening Day in the new ballpark. Stay tuned for updates as the process evolves.

Happy Holidays.

Win Twins!!!!

Dave St. Peter

President

The Minnesota Twins recently mailed 2009 renewal invoices to season ticket holders. The centerpiece of that mailing was an official New Ballpark Countdown Clock calibrated to the “projected” Opening Day at Target Field. Last Thursday those clocks reached the 500-day milestone – leaving all of Twins Territory excited while reminding those of us in the front office that the clock is literally ticking.

Ironically, Thursday was also a day of celebration on the job site. The Mortenson crew poured the last of the concrete on the Terrace Level – topping off the facility so to speak – a full two-plus months ahead of schedule. While the steelwork remains slightly behind schedule, it’s safe to say the overall pace of work continues to impress.

Target Field Notes:

More than 600 men and women are now working every day at Target Field … Look for the installation the first stadia sections to take place soon … Roughly 1/3 of the exterior limestone is now in place … Design work continues on the enhanced Target Plaza. Look for an announcement on the final design before the end of the calendar year. Construction on Target Plaza – including the extension of the pedestrian bridge to First Avenue will commence in January … After receiving more than 150 applications for the head groundskeeper position at Target Field, the Twins have narrowed the list of finalists to 10. The team expects to hire the facility groundskeeper next month … The Twins continue to have regular meetings with the team’s local and national television partners in order to shape the final broadcast plans. Last week FSN North representatives toured the facility searching for prime pre- and postgame show locations … Remember — current Twins season ticket holders have until early January to return the New Ballpark Seat Relocation Questionnaire … The Twins are now reviewing potential opponents for likely exhibition games to be played at Target Field in advance of Opening Day 2010.

Win Twins!!!!

Dave St. Peter

Note: Apologies to fans across Twins Territory for my delinquency in updating this blog. The work on Target Field is fast and furious – as is the pace across the Minnesota Twins organization. With the World Series heading toward conclusion my intent and hope is to continue to share an “insiders” view of all aspects of the development of Target Field. Thanks for your support. – Dave St. Peter

CONCRETE TURNS TO STEEL

Any fan checking out the NEW Target Field webcam understands that construction of Minnesota’s ballpark is now in overdrive. It’s Halloween week and fittingly the “skeleton” of a ballpark is starting to take shape. It’s taking shape largely thanks to a significant transition. A transition from concrete to steel.

For the past 12 months the ballpark construction site has been all about concrete. Thanks to work crews who endured last winter’s frigid temps before thriving on this summer’s splendid weather, that concrete work is ahead of schedule. In fact, the final elevated concrete pour of the Terrace Level is scheduled to take place next month – some two-plus months before it was originally planned.

Meanwhile, today’s ballpark site is quickly becoming all about steel. The outfield’s steel foundations continues to evolve while an absolutely beautiful sight emerged in the last few days. That was the sight of the “champagne” colored steel raker beams being installed on the Terrace Level. Moreover, last week’s steel milestone included the initial erection of the roof canopy framework. The overall height of the ballpark is now evident as the roof canopy begins to become reality. That’s exciting news for the design team as countless hours were spent in order to ensure the roof canopy becomes one of the ballpark’s signature features.

Target Field Notes: Upcoming construction milestones include the installation of the first “stadia” section (November); the selection of the actual ballpark seating types (November); unveiling of final Target Plaza design (December) …

Much has been made in recent days about the potential for challenging weather for possible World Series games at Target Field. What am I missing here? Didn’t anyone watch the fans and players bundle up when the 2006 World Series visited Detroit’s Comerica Park? How about the recent frigid temps during postseason games at Boston’s Fenway Park or Cleveland’s Progressive Field? How many empty seats did you see for those games? Yes, like other northern climates weather could play a role in our historically unpredictable climate. Why does the media continue to fixate on the weather in relation to Minnesota’s mover to outdoor baseball? …

With the Target Field Daktronics scoreboard package now announced, the project team now turns its collective attention to the video production equipment. In other words the cameras and backroom equipment which makes those beautiful HD images possible … The Twins have commenced the search for Target Field’s first head groundskeeper. Once hired, it will mark the first time the Twins have employed a groundskeeper since the team played at Metropolitan Stadium.

Win Twins!

Dave St. Peter

Since it became reality in May 2006, one of the most often-asked questions regarding Minnesota’s new ballpark revolved around what the facility would be called. Months and months of incredible speculation were answered earlier today when the Minnesota Twins and Target Corporation announced agreement in principle on an a historic new partnership that includes naming rights for Target Field – the new Hennepin County ballpark scheduled to open in 2010 — along with Target Plaza, which connects the ballpark to downtown Minneapolis.

Today’s announcement is the latest sign of tremendous momentum for the return of outdoor Major League Baseball. It also marks the culmination of a long-term team strategy and approach in relation to the naming of Minnesota’s new ballpark.

While many franchises conduct what may as well be called an “auction” for naming rights, I think it’s safe to say the Twins employed a somewhat non-traditional approach. For many years – even in advance of the necessary government approvals – at the urging of the Pohlad family the Twins contemplated what Minnesota’s new ballpark should be called. To that end, the team considered a variety of options – some corporate and even going with a non-corporate name. The bottom line was this: Minnesota’s new ballpark was going to be given a name which fans across Twins Territory could embrace.

Over time, the team engaged in discussions with several local and national companies each expressing interest in a ballpark naming rights relationship. The team was especially encouraged by the number of Minnesota legacy companies who showed interest in the ballpark project. As those discussions evolved, the most important elements for the team when considering potential corporate naming rights partners were as follows:

o   LOCAL

§  Minnesota based, strong regional heritage, local leadership

o   FAMILY FOCUSED

§  Brand consistency, Values

o   CIVIC ACTIVATION/STEWARDSHIP

§  Plaza, Ballpark District, Downtown Minneapolis, Region

o   COMMUNITY/PHILANTRHOPY

§  History of giving back

That’s where Target Corporation comes into the picture. Minnesota-based Target and the Twins have enjoyed a 20-plus year sponsorship relationship. With that existing partnership as a foundation, the Twins and Target engaged in serious discussions regarding opportunities surrounding the new ballpark and ultimately reached the agreement we are announcing today. Simply put, the Pohlad family and Twins organization is incredibly proud to have found what we consider to be a perfect naming rights partner.

As the Twins and Target announce this agreement, it’s clear that the partnership is about more than naming rights to Target Field. It’s about creating the ultimate fan experience; it’s about philanthropy; it’s about creating public gathering space (i.e. Target Plaza); it’s about building something iconic for downtown Minneapolis and the region; it’s about two Minnesota heritage brands combining resources and ideas.

While this agreement is clearly significant, it’s only the first in what promises to be a number of sponsorship related announcements surrounding Target Field. The team remains in serious discussions with many local and national companies about the next tier of sponsorship. The team expects to finalize up to four FOUNDING LEVEL partnerships – with various ballpark entitlements – in the near future.

Stay tuned for details as Opening Day 2010 at Target Field is less than 19 months away.

Win Twins!!!!

Dave St. Peter

President, Minnesota Twins

As another spectacular summer of Twins baseball continues, the team’s new home is quickly taking shape in downtown Minneapolis. With more than 500 workers at the ballpark site each and every day, Jerry Bell, Bill Smith and I were recently privileged to provide a variety of the club’s  uniform personnel with their first look at their new digs.

Ron Gardenhire and his coaching staff along with current Twins Justin Morneau, Joe Mauer, Joe Nathan, Nick Punto and Denard Span all recently made the 10-block trip from the Metrodome to the North Loop Neighborhood to visit the future home of Twins baseball. While we have addressed hundreds of questions during the many tours conducted for internal staff, select ticket holders, corporate partners and public officials, I found it interesting to see the coaching staff and players tour the site while gleaming information beneficial to their trade. Examples include:

·        Field/Groundskeeper – Not surprisingly all personnel expressed interest in the state of the playing field. While the grass is currently being grown at a MLB-approved sod farm in Colorado, the players were particularly interested in the infield dirt, the warning tracks, etc. They also were curious as to our plans to hire the groundskeeper – a position which will be filled prior to spring training 2009.

·        Dimensions/Outfield wall height – The players seemed pleased with the planned outfield dimensions which are almost identical to the Metrodome. Included in that discussion was the height of the outfield walls – 8 feet in left and center and 23 feet (same as the Metrodome) from right center to right. Needless to say Mr. Morneau is intrigued by the placement of “The Overlook” which extends eight feet over the right field wall.

·        Wind/Sun – With an American flag flying high on a pole placed on the future site of the pitcher’s mound the wind direction was immediately evident. That led to discussion regarding the various wind studies which have been inconclusive. In addition, the group noticed the high sky and sun location at a time representative of a standard day game. I could see Denard Span pay particular attention to the location of the sun as we walked from centerfield. The bottom line is we will not fully understand the impact of wind and sun on game conditions until the ballpark construction is complete and the roof canopy is in place.

·        Bullpens – All were pleased with the plan for “stacked” bullpens in left centerfield. Much of the discussion focused on which pen the Twins will use – the lower or upper version. The team is yet to decide as both locations have theirs pros and cons. My sense is we will look for Gardy, bullpen coach Rick Stelmaszek and even Joe Nathan to be consulted on this next summer when the bullpens are fully in place.

·        Clubhouse – Of course much our time on site was spent reviewing the plans for the Twins clubhouse. The manager, coaches, players and staff spend countless hours here and all seemed excited with the proposed layout. Among the highlights were the strategically located batting tunnels, the weight room and the training room – complete with state-of-the-art hydrotherapy.

·        Dugouts – Understanding the Twins dugout (first base side) is now constructed, it was interesting seeing the players gravitate to this space. Much of the discussion was focused on the type of flooring, the type of bench and the type of fencing along the front of the dugout.

·        Parking – Like all employees, the group was curious as to their route to the ballpark and where they will park. Ironically, the player parking area – located south of the ballpark — will be paved in the next few weeks. All seemed quite pleased with the spacious area which will allow for adequate parking for spouses on game day.

Win Twins!!!!

Dave St. Peter

President

Over the years, the Minnesota Twins have enjoyed a reputation across the world of sports as being one of the most innovative teams in terms of promotions and fan giveaways. From bat day to bobblehead day, from cap night to fan appreciation day, Twins fans have long enjoyed some of the most complete promotional calendars in all of Major League Baseball.

Can you believe it? Yes, Monday (May 26) marks the second anniversary of Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty signing the Twins-Hennepin County ballpark legislation into law.

What a difference two years can make!!! The spring of 2006 marked the conclusion of a decade-long struggle aimed at finding a workable ballpark solution. Meanwhile, the spring of 2008 finds America’s best ballpark fully under construction and building anticipation for Opening Day 2010.

With that juxtaposition in mind, I couldn’t help but think of Representative Brad Finstad (Comfrey) as the 2008 legislative session drew to a close last week in St. Paul. Yes, it was refreshing to watch the annual session-closing negotiations take place knowing the ballpark was no longer an issue up for discussion. However, I found myself focused on one of Southwestern Minnesota’s finest legislators – Brad Finstad.

Savvy Twins fans may remember that Rep. Finstad served as the author of the Twins-Hennepin County ballpark legislation. He did what so many before him could not do. He did what so many of the experts said could not be done. He ran the gauntlet and ensured the successful passage of a workable ballpark bill. From the hundreds of hours spent in committee to the floor debate to the late-night negotiations, Rep. Finstad was unflappable in his effort to resolve the ballpark debate and build a new world-class facility for the region’s fans.

While Rep. Finstad provided leadership on so many important issues – all of which much more important than baseball – the new downtown Minneapolis ballpark will certainly be an important part of his legacy. You see, as the 2008 legislative session drew to a close, the curtain also dropped on Rep. Finstad’s political career. He has decided not to run for re-election in the fall – and at least for the time being – step away from public service.

Millions of baseball fans across the region should stand as one to salute Rep. Finstad for his courage, leadership and determination in making Minnesota’s new ballpark a reality. He along with our Senate author Steve Kelley, Governor Tim Pawlenty and of course – Hennepin County Commissioners Mike Opat, Peter McLaughlin, Mark Stenglein and Randy Johnson – will forever be remembered as the leaders who preserved Twins baseball for future generations.

Best of luck to you and your family Rep. Finstad. We can’t wait to see you on Opening Day 2010!!!!

Twins Ballpark Notes: The first week of May represented a huge milestone on the Twins ballpark project when HOK Sport delivered “Bid Pack 7” to M.A. Mortenson. Said “Bid Pack” will serve as the basis for roughly $100 million worth of ballpark work to be awarded over the next few months including interior finishes, technology, scoreboard and graphics … The team now has sold 70% of the 3,400 Legend’s and Champion’s Club seats in the new ballpark … Look for a second New Ballpark Webcam to be installed in the weeks to come … Twins fans were among the big winners with the recent legislative approval of the Central Corridor. It won’t be long until fans will be able to jump on a LRT train in downtown St. Paul and travel to the doorstep of the new ballpark … Mortenson and the team will soon award the bid relating to installation of the playing field. The grass making up the playing field will be planted soon.

This week the Minnesota Twins announced one of the most important partnerships in the history of the franchise. As we all know, food and beverage as well as merchandise operations, are critical aspects of the overall game day experience. To that end, the team was thrilled to announce a new long-term partnership with Delaware North Companies Sportservice to serve as the exclusive concessionaire for the new downtown Minneapolis ballpark.

Understanding that no fewer than eight national firms expressed interest in this business, keys to the Twins decision to partner with DNC Sportservice were as follows:

• Family Ownership – The Jacobs family, which has operated Sportservice since 1915, has cultivated a business philosophy and culture within DNC quite similar to the Pohlad family operations. Beyond the concessions business, the Jacobs family owns the NHL’s Boston Bruins and operates Beantown’s TD North Bank Garden.

• Midwest Focus – DNC Sportservice has established an impressive resume of Midwest teams as clients – including the Chicago White Sox, Detroit Tigers, Cleveland Indians,  St. Louis Cardinals, Cincinnati Reds and Milwaukee Brewers. That Midwest focus isn’t new as Sportservice was the concessionaire at Minneapolis’ Nicollet Park (for the Minneapolis Millers) and St. Paul’s Lexington Park (for the original St. Paul Saints).

• Quality – Sportservice overall ability to deliver a quality food/beverage operation stood out from the field. Among the joint objectives for Sportservice and the Twins is a blend of local fares within the ballpark as well as the development of “signature” food items.

• Service – DNC Sportservice is committed to providing a high level of customer service – highlighted by the company’s market leading GuestPath benchmarking program.

• Community – DNC Sportservice will soon become a major employer within the Twin Cities with 1,000 to 1,200 people working on a Twins game day. In addition, the company is committed to maintaining the role of volunteer groups working designated concession stands – helping raise thousands of dollars for Upper Midwest charities.

• Innovation – DNC Sportservice is among the leaders in concessions technology including the push toward touch screen kiosks, loaded tickets, etc.

• Sustainable Operations – Understanding the Twins focus on sustainable design and operations of the new facility, the team is quite intrigued by the Sportservice program known as GreenPath.

• People – In a word, the DNC Sportservice is PASSIONATE about the opportunity partner with the Minnesota Twins and establish a stronger presence within the Upper Midwest.

The Twins are thrilled to have DNC Sportservice as a partner and feel strongly that they were the right choice for fans across Twins Territory. It’s a critical partnership for the team and our fans as few relationships – if any – will have a more direct impact on the overall game day experience. Welcome aboard Sportservice!!!!

Win Twins!!!

Dave St. Peter
President, Minnesota Twins