Gaslamp Ball, a San Diego Padres community

We are not getting rid of the Friar. We never were getting rid of the Friar. We have never even discussed getting rid of the Friar. It was not ever, and is not now, a consideration to get rid of the Friar. The Friar has been a part of logo and our team since the beginning. I said "the Friar is an important part of our history" and somehow it got interpreted as "the Friar is history."

I love the Friar. In fact, I think I will name my next born son "Friar."

We actually cut our marketing budget this year. Instead, we’re really reaching out to the fans and trying to focus on what’s most important to them.

All the dollars we earn will be (reinvested) back into the team. There are no owner distributions or anything like that. So to the extent that we grow revenues back, money is going to be poured back into the team. Those investments will be in scouting and player development, baseball operations, and other things to help position us on the field for success in the future.

At the same time, we’ve made other investments in ticket sales and service. We feel that’s important to keep our fans happy and help grow our fan base.

Dear Padres Fan,

The 2009 baseball season may be drawing to a close, but we remain hard at work to make the Padres fan experience even more fun and exciting. We need your help. We want you to tell us how we can improve. The link below is your chance to tell us exactly what you think.

Please click this survey link: http://surveys.polling.net/Survey2.aspx?sID=98989873&VER=wordsingle2

This email is your invitation to participate in a 10-minute online survey that will help us make your Petco Park experience even better. It's your opportunity to tell us exactly what you think about your time at the ballpark, from the first at bat until the last out. From the merchandise to the promotions, from the players to the owners, and all points in between, we want to know what you like best and what we can do even better.

Most importantly, we want the truth.

With your participation in this survey, we can build upon our fan-friendly approach of providing an exciting baseball experience. It couldn't be easier - just click the link below and let us know what you think.

Please don't say no to this invitation - the Padres need your ideas, insights, and opinions! We appreciate your consideration - and go Padres!

Please click this survey link: http://surveys.polling.net/Survey2.aspx?sID=98989873&VER=wordsingle2

Tom Garfinkel
President & COO
San Diego Padres