family playbook

Minnesota Vikings
family playbook
Table of Contents
Welcome to the Vikings
Who’s Who at the Vikings
Benefits
Game Days
Minnesota Drivers
Service Locations
Schools
Business Partners and Employee Discounts
Dining
Shopping and Services
Family Activities
Vikings in the Community
Stadium Effort
History of the Vikings
.
Welcome
Dear Minnesota Vikings Family Member,
Welcome to the Minnesota Vikings family! We are pleased you are a part of our
organization.
The Minnesota Vikings have a long, storied history and tradition, and we want you to
be part of this. It is our desire that this manual help you and your family adjust and
adapt to the team and surrounding community. The information included is designed
to provide you with more in-depth details on both the Minnesota Vikings and this
community.
Whether you are planning a trip to the Metrodome for a Vikings game or anticipating
a family outing somewhere in the beautiful state of Minnesota, you will find helpful
information in this manual. Retail and dining options abound in the Twin Cities. Along
with the cosmopolitan arts and theatre community, you will find something here to
match your interest.
We have included helpful background information and key contacts for you to turn to
for assistance. Should you need any further information regarding the areas covered
please call our Human Resources Manager, Lisa Larson, at 952-828-6538. Lisa will
happily assist or direct you to the appropriate resource.
Once again, welcome! We look forward to an exciting year ahead for the Vikings.
Sincerely,
.
Owner/Chairman
Owner/President
Who’s Who at the Vikings
Owner/Chairman
Zygi Wilf
Assistant to Head Coach
Kevin Stefanski
Owner/President
Mark Wilf
Assistant to Head Coach
Mary Redmond 952-828-6516
[email protected]
Owner/Vice Chairman
Leonard Wilf
Owner/Ownership Partner
Jeffrey Wilf
Ownership Partner
Reggie Fowler
Ownership Partner
Alan Landis
Ownership Partner
David Mandelbaum
Executive Assistant to Owners
Trish Huizinga 952-828-6573
[email protected]
Vice President of Public Affairs
and Stadium Development
Lester Bagley
Vice President of Football Operations
Rob Brzezinski
Vice President of Finance
Steve Poppen
Vice President of Player Personnel
Rick Spielman
Vice President of Operations
and Legal Counsel
Kevin Warren
.
Vice President of Sales and Marketing/
Chief Marketing Officer
Steve LaCroix
Executive Assistant to Sales and Marketing
Ren Rutkus 952-828-6504
[email protected]
Winter Park Switchboard 952-828-6500
Head Coach
Brad Childress
Executive Director of Player
Development and Legal
Les Pico 952-828-6592
(Cell 612-751-3402)
[email protected]
Player Development Assistant
Ron Brewer 952-918-8354
(Cell 612-741-9714)
[email protected]
Human Resources Manager
Lisa Larson 952-828-6538
[email protected]
Office Assistant
Lois Hyde 952-918-8373
[email protected]
Payroll Supervisor/Accountant
Carla Smith 952-828-6567
[email protected]
Director of Operations – Team Travel
Luther Hippe 952-828-6517
[email protected]
Director of Operations –
Stadium and Team Logistics
Chad Lundeen 952-918-8351
[email protected]
Executive Director of Community Relations/
Youth Football
Brad Madson 952-828-6590
[email protected]
Director of Security
Kim Klawiter 952-828-6550
(Cell 952-360-8953)
[email protected]
Team Chaplain
Tom Lamphere 952-451-2834
Metrodome Ticket Office
Joe Mee 952-918-8401
[email protected]
Phil Huebner 952-918-8403
[email protected]
Benefits
MEDICAL AND DENTAL INSURANCE INFORMATION for players CIGNA Healthcare
Customer Service Number Policy/Group Number
Identification Number
1-800-635-9671
3208640
Player’s Social Security Number
Medical claims should be submitted to:
CIGNA Healthcare Service Center
PO Box 5200
Scranton, PA
18505-5200
Dental claims should be submitted to:
Prescription Claims should be submitted to:
CIGNA Healthcare Service Center
PO Box 188037
Chattanooga, TN
37422-8037
CIGNA Pharmacy Service Center
PO Box 3598
Scranton, PA
18505-0598
IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY CALL 911
Hennepin Regional Poison Center
Team Doctors
Dr. Sheldon Burns
Dr. Joel Boyd
(800) 222-1222
952-925-2200
952-806-5341
Please verify that the clinic, hospital, urgent care or minute clinic is a part of the NFL players’
benefit plan or risk out-of-network charges or no coverage.
. Hospitals
Fairview Southdale
6401 France Ave S, Edina
(Just South of Hwy 62 on France Ave)
Methodist 6500 Excelsior Blvd, St. Louis Park
(1/2 mile West of Hwy 100 on Excelsior Blvd)
952-924-5000
952-993-5000
Abbott Northwestern
612-863-4000
800 East 28th Street, Minneapolis
(Just south of downtown Minneapolis – East of I-35W and South of I-94)
Benefits
Urgent Care and Minute Clinics
Numerous locations are in the area. Some are listed on the pages below. Contact the NFL players’
insurance customer service center at 1-800-635-9671 to verify benefit coverage of urgent care and
MinuteClinics.
Urgent Care
This list is not all-inclusive – it is only Park Nicollet Urgent Care locations and is current as of August
1, 2007. This represents a small sampling of Urgent Care facilities.
Urgent Care hours are listed as:
8:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday through Friday
8:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday and Sunday
Park Nicollet Clinic
14000 Fairview Drive
Burnsville, MN 55337
Phone: 952-993-8700
Park Nicollet Clinic
3850 Park Nicollet Blvd
St. Louis Park, MN 55416
Phone: 952-993-3123
Park Nicollet Clinic
300 Lake Drive E
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Phone: 952-993-4300
Park Nicollet Clinic
15111 Twelve Oaks Center Dr
Minnetonka, MN 55305
Phone: 952-993-4500
Minute Clinics
Numerous locations are listed at the web site www.minuteclinic.com. In the immediate area are:
Chanhassen: CVS/pharmacy, 7765 Galpin Boulevard
Clinic Hours:
M-F: 8am to 8pm
Sat-Sun: 10am to 4pm
Practitioners take a lunch break from approximately 2:00 to 2:30pm, M-F.
Driving Directions:
From the East or West: Take Arboretum Blvd to Galpin Blvd. north on Galpin
Blvd.to 78th Street
From the North or South: Take Galpin Blvd to 78th Street
.
Minnetonka: Cub Foods, 4801 County Road 101
Clinic Hours:
M-F: 8 am – 8 pm
Sat-Sun: 9 am – 5 pm
Practitioners break from approx. 2:00 to 2:30pm
Driving Directions:
From the East or West: Hwy 7 to County Road 101 north
From the North or South: I-494 to Hwy 7 west to County Road 101 north
Benefits
Southdale: First floor, by JC Penny, across from Hallmark
Clinic Hours:
M-Sat: 10am to 9pm
.
Sun: 11am to 6pm
Practitioners take a lunch break from approximately 2:00 to 2:30pm, M-F.
Driving Directions:
From I-494: Go north on France Avenue. Turn right into Southdale Shopping Center after passing West 69th Street.
From Crosstown Highway 62: Go south on France Avenue. Turn left into Southdale Shopping Center after passing West 66th Street.
Game days
2008 Schedule:
Monday, September 8
Sunday, September 14
Sunday, September 21
Sunday, September 28
Monday, October 6
Sunday, October 12
Sunday, October 19
Sunday, October 26
Sunday, November 2
Sunday, November 9
Sunday, November 16
Sunday, November 23
Sunday, November 30
Sunday, December 7
Monday, December 14
Sunday, December 21
Sunday, December 28
at Green Bay
Indianapolis
Carolina
at Tennessee
at New Orleans
Detroit at Chicago
BYE
at Houston
Green Bay
at Tampa Bay
at Jacksonville at Chicago
at Detroit at Arizona
Atlanta New York
6:00 pm
12:00 pm
12:00 pm
12:00 pm
7:30 pm
12:00 pm
12:00 pm
12:00 pm
12:00 pm
12:00 pm
12:00 pm
7:15 pm
12:00 pm
3:05 pm
12:00 pm
12:00 pm
Location of Metrodome:
500 11th Avenue South, Minneapolis
Mill City Museum
Guthrie Theater
RIVERFRONT
RAMP
9th Ave S
P
Park
Portland
2nd St S
MILL
CITY
RAMP
P
P
P
PURPLE
TAILGATE
2
COWLES
GOLD
TAILGATE
1
4th St S
ST
A
LR
T
P
PLAZA
DT EAST
RAMP
STAR
TRIBUNE
H
5th St S
METRODOME
RAMP RAMP
P
7th St S
METRO
MEDICAL
CENTER
LOT B
P
PARKING RAMPS
PARKING LOTS
8th St S
HOSPITAL
VIKINGS PARKING
P
RAMP
HUBERT H. HUMPHREY METRODOME
13th Ave S
1010
RAMP
12th Ave S
Carew
HENN
COUNTY
MEDICAL
CENTER
Chicago
Park
Portland
5th Ave S
4th Ave S
P
8th St S
TO/FROM
I-35W SOUTH
5th St S
5th St S
6th St S
6th St S
P
LRT
DOME
BUSLOT
PARKING
VIP
TENT
E
EMBASSY
SUITES
C
D
F
P
7th St S
Av
eS
LRT
GOV’T
501 CENTER
P
th
B
G
.
LRT
10
A
GOLD
TAILGATE
2
LRT
VIKINGS
A
11th Ave S
P
WHITE VIKINGS
B
TAILGATE
PURPLE
TAILGATE
1
10th Ave S
HAAF
RAMP
McGrew
3rd St S
12th Ave S
C
11th Ave S
10th Ave S
Washington Ave S
VIKINGS
GATEWAY
35W
Game days
Vikings Ticket Office Entrance
If you would like to enter the Vikings Ticket Office entrance (located below Gate C), please make
sure that you present your babysitting pass to security personnel as you enter. This entrance should
be used anytime someone is entering with children who do not have tickets/seats for the game.
After entering, please proceed with the children to the baby-sitting room listed below.
Vikings Lounge
Your Post-Game Pass must be presented as you enter the Vikings Lounge (located next to the
Vikings Ticket Office) after the game. The post-game lounge is intended for immediate family
members waiting for players and any full-time staff members with responsibilities after the game.
This pass is good for post-game use only. This pass does not allow access into the Lounge before
the game or at halftime. Make sure that if you give your pass to an out-of-town guest that you get it
back for the next game. Coaches, trainers and their wives are provided a separate lounge.
IMPORTANT: All guests must enter the lounge together.
Baby-sitting Room
The baby-sitting room is in the Minnesota Twins cafeteria, which is located downstairs in the lower
concourse under Section 131. Please present your pass to the security personnel in the concourse
and in the baby-sitting room. The baby-sitting room will open one hour prior to the start of the
game and will close shortly after the completion of the game (approximately one half hour).
Recommended ages of the children are one year and older. If you lose your pass, there will be a $50
donation to the Viking Children’s Fund to obtain a replacement pass. For the ease of preparation,
please e-mail [email protected] or call 763-458-7741 to tell her if you will be using the
childcare services. Please let her know by Friday before the scheduled game.
Baby/Infant Ticket Policy
Every person, regardless of age, needs a ticket for admittance to the stadium. Please come to the
Vikings Ticket Office on game day for a free Baby/Infant pass. The baby must be present and not
taller than 30” to acquire the pass. Distribution of these passes is up to the discretion of the ticket
office. If you have any questions, please contact Luther Hippe (952-828-6517) [email protected]
Chad Lundeen (952-918-8351) [email protected] or Paul Martin (952-918-8317) martinp@
vikings.nfl.net.
Away Games
Contact Mary Redmond at 952-828-6516 [email protected] for Tickets and Travel
arrangements.
.
Minnesota Drivers
VEHICLE AND DRIVER’S LICENCE INFO
WWW.DPS.STATE.MN.US/DVS
Click “driver info” and then
“New resident” for details
DRIVER’S TESTING STATIONS
MIDTOWN (written test only) (651-297-2005)
Midtown Exchange (Old Sears Building)
2929 Chicago Av. S. Minneapolis
Written Test (Monday – Friday 9:00am - 4:40pm)
SOUTH (651-688-1870)
2070 Cliff Road – EAGAN
Road Test (Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:30pm)
Written Test (Monday – Friday 8:00am – 3:45pm)
NORTH (651-639-4057)
35W & County Road I – ARDEN HILLS
Road Test (Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:30pm)
Written Test (Monday – Friday 8:00am – 3:45pm)
Motorcycle and Moped (Monday – Friday 10:00am – 1:00pm)
WEST (952-476-3042)
2455 Fernbrook Lane – PLYMOUTH
Road Test (Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:30pm)
Written Test (Monday – Friday 8:00am – 3:45pm)
ANOKA (763-422-3401)
530 West Main Street
Road Test (Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:00pm)
Written Test (Monday – Friday 8:00am – 3:45pm)
CHASKA (952-448-3740)
418 Pine Street South
Road Test (Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:30pm)
Written Test (Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:15pm)
.
HASTINGS (651-437-4884)
427 Vermillion
Road Test (Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:00pm)
Written Test (Monday – Friday 8:00am – 3:45pm)
Service Locations
There are seven Service Centerlocations throughout Hennepin County including Ridgedale, Southdale,
Eden Prairie, Maple Grove, Brookdale, Midtown and Downtown Minneapolis. They provide the services
listed below. Go to www.co.hennepin.mn.us for locations and hours.
Drivers Licenses, State IDs
Driver’s License Renewals
Driver’s License Replacements (Duplicates)
Driver’s License Reinstatements
Permits: Drivers’ Instruction Permit Renewals
Minnesota State ID’s
Voter Registration
Birth, Marriage and Death
Birth & Death Certificates Filing
Certified Copies of MN Births and Deaths
Certified Copies of HC Marriage Certificates
Marriage Licenses
Ministerial Credentials Filing
Marriage Certificate Filing
Vehicles - Automobile
Motor Vehicle Plates
Motor Vehicle Registrations (Tabs, Stickers)
Motor Vehicle Titles - Duplicates and Transfers
Trailer - Registrations and Transfers
Passports
Passport Photos (Instant)
Passport Books
Passport Cards
Vehicles – Recreational
.
All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV’s, 4-Wheelers)
Off-Road Motorcycles (ORV’s, OHM’s, Dirt
Bikes)
Snowmobiles
Watercrafts (Boats, Canoes, Jetskiis)
Property Taxes
Real Estate Tax Payments
Property Tax Duplicate Statements (current
year)
Property Tax Payments (current year)
DNR Licenses & Stamps
Government Center Location Only
State & Federal Waterfowl Stamps
State Trout , Pheasant and Goose Stamps
Fishing & Hunting Licenses
Special Licenses & Permits
Auctioneer’s License
Dangerous Dog Registrations
Hassan Township Permits
Lawful Gambling Premises Permits
Liquor Licenses
Park Permits - Minnesota & Hennepin County
Precious Metals Dealer’s Licenses
Tobacco Retailer’s Licenses (unorganized)
Transient Merchant Licenses
Other
Filing Your Notary Commission
Jurat/Notary Certificates
Notarizations
Notary Public Transactions
Schools
Eden Prairie Public Schools: 952-975-7008
If oldest child is not yet in school you may register your child with the school district so that you will
receive information regarding kindergarten screening and registration when appropriate
If your oldest child is school-age you may go in person to 8100 School Road between 8am and 4pm
or download form from www.edenpr.K12.mn.us by clicking “general info” and then “registration” or
call 952-975-7008 to request materials.
Other school districts:
Edina – www.Edina.K12.Mn.Us
Minnetonka – www.Minnetonka.K12.Mn.Us
Shakopee – www.Shakopee.K12.Mn.Us
Chaska – www.Chaska.K12.Mn.Us
Prior Lake and Savage – www.Priorlake-Savage.K12.Mn.Us
Preschools
Eden Prairie Early Childhood Center
www.Edenpr.K12.Mn.Us/famctr
Eden Prairie Community Ed
www.Epcommunityed.Org
Other child care and preschool options:
State child care resource and
referral contact 1-888-291-9811
.
business partners &
employee discounts
Art & Frame Warehouse
The Official framer of the Vikings offers a 20% Employee Discount to all Vikings employees. Present
your business card or another proof of employment at the time of order. Art & Frame offers high
quality and service. They have over 1,000 framed art works to choose from and have the largest
selection for your custom framing needs. They also offer in-home consultation for large jobs (3 or
more pieces).
Contact: Andy or Rachel
www.artandframewarehouse.com
763-494-8311
Store location:
7740 Main Street North
Maple Grove
BEST BUY
Personal Shopping Assistant: A Personal Shopping Assistant can help you navigate the world of
technology and find what you need. You can set up an appointment, or request a personal shopper
when you arrive at the store.
Contact: Shane LaCoste
952-941-5149 ext 2190
Store location:
Best Buy
7901 Flying Cloud Drive
Eden Prairie
Best Buy Discounts: Get deals on electronics through the BestBuyBiz discount program. Store
coupons and manufacturer rebates do not apply. Please pick out the item(s) in the store and write
down the product information and SKU. Then contact Kathy to check on the available discount(s) if
any. She will write up an order and have it at customer service for you to pick up.
Contact: Kathy Ens
612-292-0241
[email protected]
. BUFFALO WILD WINGS
In celebration of Buffalo Wild Wings sponsorship of the Vikings, they are offering 15% off your total
bill at any Metro area location.
Vikings employees just need to show a business card when paying to receive the 15% off discount.
business partners &
employee discounts
CORPORATE EXPRESS
Employees can shop on-line for office supplies for home/personal use and receive our corporate
discount rates. Supplies can be shipped directly to your house or wherever you wish in a day or
two. Each new order will require the input of new shipping and credit card information.
If you would like to order products for your home or personal use, please follow the steps below
from Corporate Express:
1. Go to https://www.eway.com/ce/eway/enter?ps=N This is the E-Way log-in site.
2. All users will login using the same ID when placing personal orders.
ID: viking-employee
Password: govikings
3. They will need to fill in their address information, name, phone and credit card with each order.
Credit card information cannot be saved, so there is no risk of another person seeing anyone’s
credit card even if two or more people are using the site simultaneously.
4. If you have any questions, please call our Corporate Express customer service number at
1-800-238-6329 (CE Today).
You may also call Alan Savage at 952-828-6513 if you have questions.
COSTCO
$20 per year per member – payroll deducted. This is a calendar year cost and there is not a prorate
for those who join mid-year. Members must have their OWN ID card to shop (ie: you cannot give
your card to your spouse to shop – they must have their own membership card). Costco only
accepts cash, checks, certain debit cards and American Express.
Costco offers an American Express credit card with cash back benefits - see application at Costco for
details.
DELL
For discounts on Dell products, log onto www.dell.com/epp, type in member ID#: PS46867952.
Check for weekly specials.
GOLDEN TAN SALONS
Go to www.goldentansalons.com to find the location nearest you. Tell the associate you are with
the Vikings and present a business card or other proof of employment. An account will then be
set up for you loaded with “Palms” good towards tanning. Employees will also receive 25% off
additional products and services purchased. For usage of the account by employee’s spouse, the
employee must approve usage by spouse on the account in person before it can be used.
Contact: Ren Rutkus, Sales and Marketing , 952-828-6504
. HOM FURNITURE
HOM Furniture has a Vikings employee offer for the 2008-09 season. There are percentage
discounts as well as other incentives which are based on the price of the items purchased. To get
details and the letter which is required to accompany the purchase please contact Lois Hyde at
952-918-8373.
business partners &
employee discounts
LIFETIME FITNESS
A limited number of free health club memberships are available for employees and their family
(immediate family and children only), but applicable taxes must be paid and are deducted through
Vikings payroll. Membership costs for children under 11 years of age is $5.00 per month per child
and not part of the Vikings trade agreement with Lifetime. Please contact Ren Rutkus, Sales and
Marketing, 952-828-6504 before going to a club to set up a membership. Visit www.lifetimefitness.
com for club locations. Family memberships are not available at this time, but please feel free to
contact Ren to be placed on the waiting list. There are still a limited number of single memberships
available. Contact Ren for more information.
NEW HORIZONS COMPUTER LEARNING CENTER
Computer training is available for all Vikings employees through New Horizons Computer
Learning Center. The training certificates are a product of a trade agreement that our Marketing
Department set up with New Horizons. Here is just a sampling of what courses are available.
•
Word (Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced)
•
Excel (Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced)
•
Access (Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced)
•
PowerPoint (Beginning and Intermediate)
•
Computers Made Easy
•
Outlook (Beginning and Intermediate)
The training facility is located about 5 miles from Winter Park in Edina. For course schedules and
outlines, you can visit the New Horizons’ web site at www.newhorizonsmn.com or call Cheryl
Nygaard, 952-828-6569, for a brochure.
TOTAL LUXURY LIMOUSINE
Special pricing for limousine and van services.
Contact:: 651-770-5668
3565 Hoffman Road East, Vadnais Heights, MN 55110
VIKINGS LOCKER ROOM STORE
25% off all purchases. Show your Vikings business card to receive the discount.
They carry a wide variety of Vikings items.
Mall of America, West 160
952-854-2936
.
Ridgedale
952-545-6680
Rosedale
651-636-6438
WILDFIRE RESTAURANT
20% off discount card. Good for any visit, no limit on visits. Contact Ren Rutkus, Sales and
Marketing, 952-828-6504 if you have not received a card or to make special arrangements.
Eden Prairie Center (on the Sears Side) 952-914-9100
business partners &
employee discounts
Enterprise Rent-A-Car Customer Service:
Our Way of Life
1-800-Rent-A-Car
(952) 941-8011
9053 Flying Cloud Road
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Hours of Operation:
Mon. - Fri. 7:30 am - 6:00 pm
Saturdays 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Account # N2C074
Vehicle Classes
Intermediate Car
Standard Car
Full-Size Car
Minivan
Luxury Car Pick-up Truck SUV (standard)
SUV (large)
Van (15 passenger)
Daily Rate
$37
$40
$43
$60
$66
$60
$66
$80
$111
Weekly Rate
$180
$200
$220
$330
$330
$300
$330
$400
$600
All rates include mileage up to 2500 miles.
Intermediate Car
Chevy Cobalt / Ford Focus or similar
Mid-Size Car
Pontiac G6 / Chevy Malibu or similar
Full-Size Car
Chevy Impala / Pontiac Grand Prix or similar
.
Luxury Car
Cadillac / Infiniti or similar
SUV (standard)
GMC Envoy / Ford Explorer or similar
SUV (large)
Chevy Tahoe / Ford Expedition/ Durango or similar
Pick-up Truck
Chevy Silverado / Ford F-150 or similar
Minivan
Dodge Caravan / Pontiac Montana or similar
Monthly Rate
$740
$800
$830
$1100
$1100
$1000
$1100
$1200
N/A
business partners &
employee discounts
Kelly Tillotson, GRI Realtor
www.KellyTillotson.com
[email protected]
/
Your Trusted Real Estate Advisor
I want you to know that not only will I get you
settled into your new home, I will get you
settled into your new community.
Because searching for a home can be a
challenging endeavor, we, at Bridge Realty,
want to simplify your life by offering a one stop
shop.
As a thank you for the opportunity to serve this
organization, I offer a 20% rebate of my
commissions to you, as buyer or seller, upon a
successful completion of a closing
I believe in my commitment to
provide excellent service.
.
“Kelly Tillotson is committed to helping her
clients accomplish their dreams. Her goal is to
provide world class service in the Minneapolis
area. She was knowledgeable, experienced,
committed and supportive in our quest. It took
us nearly two years to transfer and Kelly was
with us every step of the way. We were lucky
to have found her.”
Alan & Rickie Gill
“We agree that Customer Service is #1 and we
got that from you. We so appreciated your
professionalism. You made our family's
relocation a very positive experience.”
- Hal and Louise Grey
Cell: 952-240-5803
Direct: 952-368-0021
Fax: 952-368-0036
Bridge Realty
102 North Chestnut Street
Chaska, MN 55318
“Just a note to thank you for all you did.
You were super, and this made the entire
process easy for us. It was quite a lot for us
to move from our life time home in North
Dakota. You knew exactly what we wanted
and didn't quit until we found it.”
- Dallas and June Johnson
business partners &
employee discounts
.
business partners &
employee discounts
h"ESTIN3ERVICEv
4HE3TEPHENSON4EAM
3HARON*EFF
02/&%33)/.!,#/--)4-%.4
2%3/52#%3
We accomplish this goal by
working with our clients and fellow
Realtors with honesty, integrity,
fairness and hard work.
We are committed to being aware
of the ongoing changes in the real
estate market and the complicated local and state requirements
affecting your transaction.
We can offer you a vast array of
resources that will provide a seamless buying/selling experience:
It is of the utmost importance to
us to approach your real estate
needs ethically. Whether buying, selling or both -- we strive for
all parties in the transaction to be
“winners”. We adhere to these
beliefs and standards.
7EAREMEMBERSOFTHE
• Minneapolis Area Association of
Realtors
• Minnesota Association of Realtors
• National Association of Realtors
• Council of Residential Specialists
• Graduate Realtors Institute
"%34).3%26)#%)3/52
02)/2)49
.
The Stephenson Team brings over
30 years of real estate experience
and service to the entire metropolitan area. Our clients appreciate
the availability that our approach
brings to their real estate needs.
Collectively we have vast knowledge and experience of the many
situations that may occur during
the buying and selling of your
home.
11200 West 78th Street
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
www.minnesotahomes.com
Each RE/MAX® office is indepenedently
owned and operated.
2%,/#!4)/.)3/52"53).%33
We are certified relocation specialists and have been working for 16+
years. 65% of our business is relocation.
• A full service real estate company
• Legal counsel on-site
• Assistance in the staging of your
home for sale
• A network of services providers
that provide solutions to your
real estate needs:
• Mortgage and Title
• Movers & Moving Services
• Home Inspection
• Home Repair & Remodeling
• Painters
• Carpet Suppliers
• Home Security
• Insurance
• Etc.
2%&%2%.#%3
Available upon request.
The Stephenson Team
• Sharon Stephenson, GRI, CRS
Relocation Specialist
952.942.4717
612.396.0482
[email protected]
• Jeff Stephenson, GRI, CRS
Relocation Specialist
952.942.4727
612.578.8820
[email protected]
business partners &
employee discounts
VIRGINIA LORD & JEFFREY DEWING ARE...
Realtors who work as a team to provide the best
representation and service for professional athletes!
Virginia and Jeffrey have been named by Minneapolis
and St. Paul Magazine and Minnesota Business Magazine as “Super Agents”, representing the top 4% of
Realtors based upon customer satisfaction. Virginia and
Jeffrey are also members of Coldwell Banker Burnet’s
Distinctive Homes Division whose members represent
the top 50 Realtors in the company who sell upper bracket homes.
Virginia is a licensed attorney
who has been practicing in the
state of Minnesota for over 25
years as a litigator. Her extensive legal background ensures
that contracts and negotiations are always representing
our client’s best interests.
.
• Coordinate title work and homeowner’s
insurance
• Handle all utility hookups & disconnects
• Provide several mortgage options with
well established mortgage bankers
• Coordinate movers
• Coordinate auto transport service
• Interior Design referrals
• Cleaning service referrals
• Long established relationships with
construction and painting companies
who are at your service
Integrity, confidentiality and trust
are the cornerstones of our business.
We pride ourselves on finding properties that will be good investments
for our clients.
Virginia Lord
Jeffrey has vast experience
representing professional athletes and his repeat business
and many referrals attest to
his outstanding performance,
quality service and integrity.
Some of his clients include:
John Randle NFL
Steve Hutchinson NFL
Charles Evans NFL
Ashley Sheppard NFL
Leroy Hoard NFL
Ed McDaniel NFL
Concierge services we provide for our clients:
Direct: 952-475-9212
Cell: 612-799-1700
Fax:
952-473-3932
Email: [email protected]
www.virginialord.com
Jeffrey Dewing
Kirby Puckett MLB
Christian Laettner NBA
Todd Bouman NFL
Brett Lievers NHL
Carlos Jenkins NFL
Direct: 952-471-2279
Cell: 612-597-0424
Fax:
952-471-2280
Email: [email protected]
Dining
.
We’ll make it
an affair to remember
Private parties are our specialty
952-914-9100
wildfirerestaurant.com
EDEN PRAIRIE CENTER • EDEN PRAIRIE
Dining
Restaurants in the Southwest Suburbs
Wildfire www.wildfire.com
Restaurant featuring steaks, chops and seafood. (5 mins. from WP)
3020 Eden Prairie Center, Eden Prairie - Southwest side of Mall (952/914-9100)
- Go west on Viking Drive to the lights
- Take a left on Prairie Center Drive
- Continue about 1 mile, Mall is on your right
- Wildfire is on the south side of mall near Barnes and Noble
Kincaid’s www.kincaids.com
Upscale dining featuring traditional fish, chops & steaks. Fresh fish, steak, and pasta specials. Open
for lunch and dinner. (10 mins. from WP)
*Voted Best Restaurant in the Twin Cities!
8400 Normandale Lake Blvd., Bloomington (952/921-2255)
- 494 E to 100 S (Normandale Road)
- Right at 1st stop light (84th St.)
- Right at 2nd stop light (Normandale Lakes Blvd.)
- 8400 Tower parking garage is on the right
- Kincaid’s is on the first level of the 8400 Tower building
Campiello www.campiello.damico.com
Casual, country style Italian cuisine featuring a wood-fired rotisserie and oven. Owned by D’Amico
and Son’s. (5 mins. from WP)
6411 City West Parkway, Eden Prairie (952/941-6868)
- Washington Ave. North to Valley View Road
- Left on Valley View to Shady Oak Road
- Right on Shady Oak and cross over Hwy. 212/Hwy. 5
- Campiello’s is on your right near a strip mall across from Wooddale Church.
.
Buca Di Beppo www.bucadibeppo.com
Southern Italian family-style dining. Large portions of salads, pastas, pizzas and other southern
Italian entrees. (10 mins. from WP)
7711 Mitchell Road, Eden Prairie (952/934-9463)
- Take Viking Drive West past Channel 9 to Flying Cloud Drive (Hwy. 212)
- Take a right on Flying Cloud Drive to Valley View Road
- Take a left on Valley View and follow signs for Hwy. 5 West
- Take Hwy. 5 West to Mitchell Road
- Take a right on Mitchell Road (Buca will be on you right)
Dining
Biaggi’s www.biaggis.com
Restaurant featuring authentic Italian cuisine. (5 mins. from Winter Park)
8251 Flying Cloud Drive, Eden Prairie ask for Gary Chanen (952/942-8555)
- Take Viking Drive west and go left on Prairie Center Dr.
- Follow Prairie Center Dr for about 1 mile
- Biaggi’s is on the south side of Mall near Barnes & Noble
Outback Steakhouse www.outback.com
Aussie-theme steakhouse with mainstream American foods: steaks, pastas, chicken, seafood, salads
& sandwiches abound the menu. Open for lunch and dinner. (10 mins. from Winter Park)
12910 Plaza Drive, Eden Prairie (952/946-1480)
- Take Viking Drive West past Channel 9 to Flying Cloud Drive (Hwy. 212)
- Take a right on Flying Cloud Drive to Valley View Road
- Take a left on Valley View and proceed about 1½ mile to Plaza Drive
- Take a left on Plaza Drive, go about ¾ of a mile, Outback will be on your right
Applebee’s www.applebees.com
Neighborhood Bar and Grill. (5 mins. from Winter Park)
8421 Joiner Way, Eden Prairie (952/942-7993)
- Take Viking Drive West to Prairie Center Drive
- Take a left onto Prairie Center Drive
- Follow Prairie Center Drive to the Lariat Center on the left
- Applebee’s is across the street from a Goodyear tire dealership.
Don Pablo’s www.donpablos.com
Mexican Cuisine (1 mile west of Winter Park)
11347 Viking Drive, Eden Prairie (952/943-2877)
- Take Viking Drive West to Prairie Center Drive
- Proceed straight through the stoplight and take a left at the Fairfield Inn
- Don Pablo’s will be right next to the Fairfield Inn.
.
Champp’s www.champps.com
Great food, music, drinks, giveaways and sports. Open daily for lunch and
dinner. (5 mins. from Winter Park)
8010 Glen Lane, Eden Prairie (952/942-3331)
- West on Viking Drive to Prairie Center Drive
- Go right on Prairie Center Drive to second stop light
- Go left (west) on Hwy 212 and continue for about 3 to 4 blocks
- Take a right on Eden Road and the next left on Glen Lane
Dining
Redstone www.redstonegrill.com
Casual American dining featuring wood-fired steaks, chops, and seafood. Open daily at 11am for
lunch and dinner. Sunday Brunch from 10am to 2pm. Call and ask for Derek. (5 mins. from Winter
Park)
8000 Eden Road, Eden Prairie (952/903-9500)
- West on Viking Drive to Prairie Center Drive
- Go right on Prairie Center Drive to second stop light
- Go left (west) on Hwy 212 and continue for about 3 to 4 blocks
- Take a right on Eden Road and it’s on the right side just past DQ
(across from Champps)
Perkins www.perkinsrestaurants.com
Comprehensive breakfast, lunch, and dinner selection ranging from traditional to
innovative.(10 mins. from Winter Park)
4201 West 78th Street, Bloomington (952/831-8855)
- Take 494 East
- Take the exit 6B following the signs for CR-17 France Avenue
- Go left on France
- Turn slightly left onto West 78th Street
Famous Dave’s – BBQ www.famousdaves.com
(13 mins. from Winter Park)
5101 West 98th Street, Bloomington (952/832-0500)
- 169 North
- 494 East
- Merge onto Normandale Blvd/CR-34 South via Exit 7B
- Turn left onto West 98th Street
Twin City Grill www.lettuceentertainyou.com
40’s 50’s supper club atmosphere, fresh fish, steaks, full service bar (15 mins. from Winter Park)
Mall of America North Garden space #130, Bloomington (952/854-0200)
- Between Sears and Nordstrom’s
- 1st floor space # N130
.
Ciao Bella www.ciaobellamn.com
Italian eatery, great pizza for lunches and pastas for dinner. (10mins. from Winter Park)
3501 Minnesota Drive, Bloomington (952/841-1000)
- 169 North
- 494 East
- Exit #6B France Avenue
- Left on France Avenue
- Right on Minnesota Drive
Dining
Additional dining options:
Eden Prairie
India Palace
Great Mandarin
TGI Fridays
Jakes
Woody’s Grille
936 Prairie Center Drive
8251 Flying Cloud Drive
8251 Flying Cloud Drive
12365 Singletree Lane
6399 Citywest Parkway
952-946-1923
952-941-9828
952-995-4100
952-944-3794
952-944-8799
indiapalace.com
2715 Southdale Center
2685 Southdale Center
2700 Southdale Center
5057 France Ave S.
3910 W 50th Street
952-653-3333 952-285-4339
952-926-1713
612-285-7444
952-926-0800
thecheesecakefactory.com
maggianos.com
pfchangs.com
arezzo-ristorante.com
tejasrestaurant.com
3746 Sunset Drive
11000 Red Circle Dr.
952-471-8513
952-224-5858
lordfletchers.com
jimmysfoodandcocktails.com
685 Excelsior Blvd
952-470-1800
maynardsonline.com
550 W. 79th St.
952-934-9453
buffalowildwings.com
fridays.com
jakescitygrille.com
woodysgrille.com
Edina
Cheesecake Factory
Maggiano’s Little Italy
P F Chang’s
Arezzo Ristorante
Tejas
Minnetonka
Lord Fletchers
Jimmy’s
Excelsior
Maynards
Chanhassen
Buffalo Wild Wings
.
Dining
Downtown Minneapolis Restaurants
Steak (Plus)
Capital Grille
thecapitalgrille.com
J.D. Hoyt’s
jdhoyts.com
Manny’s Steakhouse
mannysteakhouse.com
Morton’s
mortons.com
Murrays
murraysrestaurant.com
Ruth’s Chris
ruthschris.com
Seafood
McCormick & Schmick’s
Oceanaire Seafood Room
mccormickandschmicks.com
theoceanaire.com
British
Brit’s
britspub.com
French Mediterranean
La Belle Vie
labellevie.us
Italian
Bellanotte bellanottempls.com
Brazilian
Fogo De Chao .
fogodechao.com
Irish
The Local the-local.com
Japanese
Fuji Ya fujiyasushi.com
Dining
Asian Influenced
Chambers Kitchen chambersminneapolis.com
20.21
info.walkerart.org/visit/dining.wac
Tapas
Solera
solera-restaurant.com
Fondue
The Melting Pot
meltingpot.com/Minneapolismn
Organic/Vegitarian
Spoon River
spoonriverrestaurant.com
General
.
Matty B’s
(Owned by Viking Matt Birk)
mattybs.com
Bank
Café Lurcat bankmpls.com
Cue at the Guthrie cueatguthrie.com
Martini Blu mattiniblu.com
Mission American missionamerican.com
Nicollet Island Inn nicolletislandinn.com
Palamino palomino.com
Vincent A Restaurant vincentarestaurant.com
cafelurcat.com
Shopping & Services
Malls
Eden Prairie Mall
www.edenprairiecenter.com
Mall of America
www.mallofamerica.com
Ridgedale
www.ridgedalecenter.com
Rosedale
www.myrosedale.com
Southdale/Galleria
www.southdale.com/www.galleriaedina.com
Downtown Minneapolis
www.minneapolis.org
Outlet Malls
Albertville
www.premiumoutlets.com
Medford
www.outletbound.com
Tanger
www.tangeroutlet.com/northbranch
U.S. Post Office
Eden Prairie Lifetime Fitness
8725 Columbine Road
Eden Prairie-crosstown 6233 Baker Road
952-943-4600
Chanhassen 2901 Corporate Place
952-380-0303
Spas
Spalon Montage 952/915-2900 (all locations)
.
Edina
3909 West 49 1/2 St at 50th and France
Chanhassen
600 Market Street Suite 270
Limo Service
Total Luxury Limousine Service
(Official Limo Company of the Vikings)
651- 770-5668
www.totallimo.com
Dave Murray, Owner - cell 651-755-9239
Shopping & Services
Rental Cars
Enterprise Car Rental
952- 941-8011
Enterprise will deliver vehicles to Winter Park, hotels, or other locations. They will rent to
individuals under the age 25. Renters are required to have a major credit card and a valid driver’s
license. Refer to the Enterprise insert in this handbook for more information regarding daily,
weekly, and monthly rates.
*Vehicle charges are the responsibility of the individual and may not be billed to the Club.
Banking
US Bank
24-Hour Service : 612- 872-2657.
Ron Plante 952- 942-2839
Will cash Minnesota Vikings payroll checks with proper photo identification. It is located by Eden
Prairie Center on the corner of Prairie Center Drive and West 78th street. If you would like to open
up an account at US Bank, you may contact Ron at the number above.
Furniture Rental
.
Cort Furniture
Melissa - 952- 884-5622
Family Activites
Libraries www.hclib.org
Valley Fair www.valleyfair.com
Mall of America www.mallofamerica.com
Minnesota Zoo www.mnzoo.org
University of MN Arboretum
www.arboretum.umn.edu/
Pump It Up
www.pumpitupparty.com
Edinborough Park
www.edinboroughpark.com
(May – September)
(includes indoor amusement park,
underground aquarium, shopping & dining)
Theatre
The Twin cities are second only to New York City in the number of theater seats per capita.
Minneapolis alone is home to 30 live theaters.
Guthrie Theater
818 South 2nd Street, Minneapolis
Chanhassen Dinner Theatre
Children’s Theatre Company
501 West 78th Street, Chanhassen
2400 3rd Avenue South, Minneapolis
Live Music Venues
Orchestra Hall
. 1111 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis
St. Paul Chamber Orchestra
408 St. Peter Street, St. Paul
The Minnesota Opera
Dakota Jazz Club and Restaurant
620 N. 1st Street, Minneapolis
1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis
www.guthrietheater.org
[email protected]
www.childrenstheatre.org
www.minnesotaorchestra.org
www.theSPCO.org
www.mnopera.org
www.dakotacooks.com
Family Activites
Museums and Galleries
Walker Art Center
1750 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis
.
Minneapolis Institute of Arts
Science Museum of Minnesota
2400 3rd Avenue South, Minneapolis
120 West Kellogg Blvd, St. Paul
www.walkerart.org
www.artsmia.org
www.smm.org
Vikings in the Community
Viking Children’s Fund
Vikings Contact Person: Pat Leopold
952-828-6578
[email protected]
There have been many changes on and off the field for
the Minnesota Vikings since the team’s inception, but the
organization’s steadfast commitment to children has always remained the same.
In light of the organization’s commitment to community, the Viking Children’s Fund (VCF) was
established in 1978 and has since raised nearly $8 million to give back to those in need. The
VCF is a means for Vikings players, coaches, cheerleaders, staff and their families to focus their
community support to help children. The VCF distributes grants to health, education and family
services organizations benefiting children.
In 2007 the VCF provided more than 75 grants to nonprofit
organizations, including $170,000 to the University of Minnesota
Department of Pediatrics. In total, the VCF has donated more than
$4.5 million to support the University of Minnesota Department of
Pediatrics, which boasts highly-skilled pediatricians and excels in
break-through research.
To learn more about the VCF- or to make a donation- please call
Patrick Leopold at (952) 828-6500. If your charitable organization
is interested in applying for a VCF grant, log on to vikings.com to
download a grant application form. Grant applications need to be
mailed by the end of November each year for fall award.
Minnesota Vikings logos, marks, and colors
Artwork provided for reproduction must NOT be altered
in any way without the consent and/or approval of the
Minnesota Vikings. Contact Vikings marketing at
952.828.6500 for more details.
PMS 2685
Process for Purple
C=90, M=100 K=10
PMS 1235
PMS 720
Process for Gold
M=30 Y=100
Process for Tan
M=25 Y=30 K=5
For this one-time use only, subject to approval of artwork by the Minnesota Vikings.
Community Relations
Vikings Contact Person: Brad Madson
952-828-6590
[email protected]
.
Ben and Abby Leber are, once again, heading up our
hospital visits this season. The dates are September
16th, October 28th and November 25th. We will meet
at Winter Park at 9:15am and caravan down to the
hospital. At the hospital we sign Vikings souvenirs
for kids who are able to come to us and also make
visits to rooms for those who can’t. Generally, we get
situated around 10 am and visit the children from 10:15
to 11:30. We have found it works well for the wives/
girlfriends to visit along with the players as it allows for
more interplay with the kids and their families.
In addition to the hospital visits these activities are scheduled throughout the season:
Game Day Events will include:
September 14th – Indianapolis – RT Autism Awareness
(Coordinator – Julie Farwell)
Vikings in the Community
October 12th – Detroit – ZTA Breast Cancer Awareness
(Coordinator – Jenni Greenway)
November 2nd – Houston – Food Drive
(Coordinators Dru Childress and Jardin Loeffler)
December 21st – Atlanta - Toy Drive
(Coordinators Kelly Griffin and Lisa Dugan)
Other Non-Game Day Events:
Clothing Drive at Winter Park
Tuesday, October 7th from 2:30 to 4 p.m.
(Coordinators - LaShawnda Herrera and Jaivonna Hicks)
Blood Drive at Qwest Headquarters
Tuesday, November 18th from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
There are two shifts that last one hour.
(Coordinator – Jenni Greenway)
Adoption Family Funfest
December 9th
(Coordinators Leah Brzezinski and Michele Spielman)
Hair Donation for Cancer Patients
www.beautifullengths.com
(Coordinator – Lisa Dugan)
.
Stadium Effort
STADIUM UPDATE
APRIL 25 ,2008
MSFC AND VIKINGS SEEK STADIUM RESOLUTION IN 2009
Working in concert with the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission, the Minnesota Vikings are preparing to present a stadium development plan to the
2009 Legislature for consideration. This joint-proposal will include specific stadium design and program elements, a finance plan, and principles of agreement
on how the new facility will be operated and governed. All of these elements are crucial for the Legislature and the Governor to analyze as they work to reach
a stadium solution in 2009.
The Vikings ownership group has done everything possible to collaborate with state, regional and local partners, to respect State Legislative priorities,
and to invest in a winning football team and in this community. Ownership’s sense of frustration is growing with the lack of engagement by State leaders and
the lack of urgency regarding addressing this issue before the team’s lease expires in 2011.
Each year of delay increases the cost of the stadium project by approximately $50 million. Combine this with the fact that the Vikings will have only
30 games remaining on the lease, 2009 is the critical year to preserve the long-term viability of the Vikings in Minnesota. Neither State leaders nor Vikings
ownership can wait until the lease expires to make these crucial business decisions.
KEY ELEMENTS OF THE STADIUM DEVELOPMENT PLAN
This economic development proposal includes three critical elements
that go beyond hosting Vikings home games:
1) A retractable-roof stadium that will give Minnesotans a state-of-theart venue to be used year-round for high school and amateur sports,
trade shows, community and cultural events as well as national and
international happenings.
2) A Winter Garden light rail train station that will serve as a connecting
point for the future Central Corridor light rail line and the existing
Hiawatha line.
3) A privately financed redevelopment of the Downtown East area
that will include office buildings, residences, shops and restaurants.
This exciting project will create jobs, boost the economy and bring a
renewed energy to this area of Minneapolis.
The development will include a ‘Winter Garden transit station that will host
indoor/outdoor activities for transit riders, neighborhood residents, downtown
workers and attendees of stadium events.
PROGRAM ELEMENTS OF THE PROPOSED NEW STADIUM
¾65,000 seats, expandable to 72,000 for Super Bowl and other major
events
¾Up to 7,500 club seats (included in above seat count)
¾Up to 150 private box suites
¾20,000 parking spaces within one-quarter mile of the new stadium
¾Public plaza comprising approximately 144,000 square feet of land
area
¾Vikings Hall of Fame
¾Vikings Team Store
¾Two state-of-the-art video boards and a ribbon board
.
The retractable-roof stadium will engage the city
with an endzone view of downtown Minneapolis.
Stadium Effort
ANSWERS TO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the current stadium proposal?
The Vikings stadium development plan is to use the existing H.H.H.
Metrodome site in the Downtown East area of Minneapolis as the site of
a new multi-purpose, retractable-roof facility.
Has renovation of the Metrodome been eliminated?
Both the MSFC and the Vikings have researched and eliminated
renovation as a viable option. Renovation is not a long-term solution
for our fans. It does not meet the program requirements of the team
or the NFL, it’s too costly and provides minimum benefit for the public
investment, and it greatly limits other economic development from taking
place in the surrounding neighborhood.
Who will own the proposed stadium?
The stadium will be publicly owned and operated by a stadium authority
similar to the MSFC, the public body that owns and operates the
Metrodome. The Vikings will pay rent for their 10 home games each
season.
The proposed stadium could be used for ancillary events
such as NCAA basketball tournaments and MLS soccer.
What is the Winter Garden piece?
The proposed Winter Garden light rail train station will serve as a connecting point for the future Central Corridor and the existing Hiawatha line. Currently
10% of Vikings fans use the LRT to attend games, but creating this public asset will allow 60,000+ riders a day to connect in front of the new stadium. The
station will include indoor and outdoor programmable space for art exhibits, shows and Vikings memorabilia on game days.
Why should the state invest in another stadium on this site?
The existing Metrodome site makes tremendous sense for a new multi-purpose stadium because most of the infrastructure needed is already in place.
While Minneapolis is the proposed location for this stadium, the facility will be a statewide asset, used for events that student athletes and fans from across
Minnesota will attend. Looking at the benefits of all of the current options, we believe it is in the state’s best interest to redevelop the Metrodome site.
What is Minnesota Momentum?
Minnesota Momentum is a citizens’ coalition of Minnesota residents, Vikings fans, businesses and organizations. Members of this group support the plan
to build a new Minnesota Vikings stadium and want to see the state legislature resolve the issue in 2009. The group is co-chaired by Hall of Fame Vikings
coach Bud Grant, Kathi Ackerman of Minnesota DARE and Vikings fan representative Larry Spooner. Other founding members include John Gagliardi,
Saint John University’s head football coach; Ezell Jones, Board Member of the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce; Jay Kimble, Mayor of Stillwater,
MN; Terry Mattson, President of Visit Duluth; and Bill McCarthy, President of the Minneapolis Central Labor Union.
.
Minnesota Vikings
9520 Viking Drive
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
(952) 828-6500
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
Much work remains between now and the 2009 Legislative Session, and
the Vikings need your help. You can help by:
¾Joining Minnesota Momentum - www.minnesotamomentum.com.
¾Contacting your legislator with the following key messages:
o The Vikings are an important state asset; they belong in Minnesota
and the stadium issue must be resolved in 2009.
o I support the plan to build a new stadium to replace the Metrodome
and provide a new home for Vikings football because it will solve
the team’s stadium issue, boost our state’s economy and reenergize the Downtown East area of Minneapolis.
o The state needs a multi-purpose, climate-controlled facility to
host year-round events.
o The VIkings plan includes a new Winter Garden light rail train
station that will connect the future Central Corridor LRT and the
existing Hiawatha LRT, allowing 60,000+ riders a day to connect
at the new stadium site.
o The legislature has solved stadium issues for the Minnesota
Wild, the Minnesota Twins and the University of Minnesota. It is
time to resolve the remaining stadium issue.
For more information, please visit www.minnesotamomentum.com.
History of the Vikings
Club History:
Twin Cities football enthusiasts began their quest for professional football many years ago and it
was on January 28th, 1960 that their efforts culminated with the announcement that Minnesota
was being granted a franchise for 1961. At the same time Dallas was accepted to start play in
1960. The franchise was granted just ten days after E. William Boyer, president of the Minneapolis
Chamber of Commerce, had made an official presentation to the league on behalf of statewide
Minnesota interests.
Beside Boyer in the founding group
were: Max Winter, promoter and
restaurateur, H.P. Skoglund, president
of North American Life and Casualty
Company, Ole Haugsrud, Duluth
businessman and the Northwest
Publications, Inc., publishers of the
St. Paul Dispatch and Pioneer Press,
through its president, Bernard H.
Ridder, Jr.
They decided to start with an original outlay of one million dollars, of which the Minneapolis
sources would put up $600,000; St. Paul $300,000 and Duluth, representing the rest of the state,
$100,000. Upon acquiring a franchise, the group hired Joe Thomas, former scout with the Los
Angeles Rams, to scout the country in preparation for the 1961 draft meeting, and went on a
nationwide search to find a general manager. This ended with the selection of Bert E. Rose, who
was at the time the public relations director for the Rams.
How the Vikings got their name:
When Bert Rose was selected as General Manager, one of the first steps he took was to
recommend to the Board of Directors that the club be nicknamed the “Vikings”.
A nickname should serve a dual purpose, he said. First, it should represent an aggressive person
or animal inbued with the will to win. Secondly, if possible, it is desirable to have it connote the
region that the particular team represents.
.
The “Vikings” scores well on both points. Certainly, the Nordic
Vikings were a fearless race. Following many years of victories in
the British Isles and France, under Erik the Red, they sailed in open
boats across the North Atlantic seeking new peoples to conquer.
Their entire history is punctuated with the aggressive desire and
will to win.
While Minnesota is populated by the descendants of settlers
from many nations, the area has a rich Nordic lore, perhaps due
to the mythology of Paul Bunyan and his Blue Ox, perhaps due
to the preponderance of the “sons” and “sens” in the phone book.
The Vikings, too, were Nordics; hence the name
represents in a large part the solid stock of people
who call Minnesota their home.