Ladies and Gentlemen,

As you have likely heard by now, James Van Horn, the “Eat ’em up, Tigers!” guy, and “Dreadlock Mike” (real name not yet known, any help is appreciated) were killed in a hit-and-run accident early this morning.

These two men were very recognizable figures in downtown Detroit, especially at before and after sporting events. I, personally, have encountered these men at almost every Tigers game I went to at Comerica Park. Both very friendly and respectful.

James Van Horn’s “Eat ’em up, Tigers, Eat ’em up!” chant was one of the most recognizable pre-game traditions at Comerica Park. He would also include current events into his routine, my favorite of which was during the 2008 Detroit mayoral election. James shouted “Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to take this time to announce my candidacy for the mayor of Detroit. And my campaign slogan will be” (dramatic pause) “Eat ’em up, Tigers, Eat ’em up! Eat ’em up, Tigers, Eat ’em up!” and so on an so forth.

Here is my proposal:

To memorialize these men and start a new Tigers tradition, after the National Anthem is finished (and not a second sooner), Tigers fans begin to chant “Eat ’em up, Tigers, Eat ’em up!” Over and over. Keep repeating until the starting pitcher is preparing to throw the first pitch.

I know some are proposing doing this at tonight’s game, but I say take it a step further and do it at every game. Heck, do it at away games, too! I was at U.S. Cellular Field on Wednesday to see the Tigers beat up on the White Sox, and there were enough Tigers fans there to have made this a very viable and loud option.

I don’t know if I will make it to the game tonight, nor do I know when my next game will be. But if you are going to the game tonight, tomorrow, or any other time, please, help start this tradition. It would be a great way to honor these men and to unify Tigers Fans.

Eat ’em up!