Home > Panda Watch > Archives > 2006 > December > 15 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USAtlanta’s panda gets ‘beautiful’ name
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Atlanta, America, the world: Meet Mei Lan.
That’s the name officially given Friday morning to the Giant Panda cub born at Zoo Atlanta.
Translated from Mandarin Chinese, it means “Atlanta beauty.” It is pronounced “May-lan,” and will be the animal’s name for life.
It bested nine other entries in an online poll that drew more than 53,000 votes.
“We’re very excited with the name,” said Dennis Kelly, president/CEO of Zoo Atlanta. “It’s a perfect fit for the animal. It brings out both the best in Chinese culture and the culture of the south.”
The winning name drew 22 percent of the vote. “Mei Lan was the clear winner,” Kelly said. “There’s no runoff required here.”
Xiao Tao (“little peach”) took second place in the voting, with 19 percent of the vote. Mei Tao (“beautiful peach”) finished third, getting 13 percent.
With Chinese dignitaries, state and local officials and hundreds of panda fans watching, the zoo announced her name in a ceremony held, per Chinese custom, 100 days after her Sept. 6 birth. It was a traditional and festive affair, highlighted by dancing girls, cheering people and red banners.
Voters got to choose from among 10 names for the cub, whose parents Lun Lun and Yang Yang are here on a ten-year loan. The finalists came from Atlanta media organizations, the zoo, China and the restaurant chain Panda Express, a zoo sponsor. Mei-Lan was submitted by WSB-TV.
They ranged from names that hinted at the cub’s American roots — Cheng Ya (“Pretty Atlanta Girl From Chengdu”), for example. Others, such as Chang Jiang (“Yangtze River”), were reminders that the cub’s native land is China.
Some of the more than 53,000 votes cast came from across town, others from across continents. Voters included a marketing director in a palm-dotted suburb of Fort Lauderdale and a snowed-in student in Chicago. Teachers exhorted their students to study the names and choose wisely — for some youngsters, it was their introduction to democracy.
At Atlanta’s Neighborhood Charter School, less than a half-mile from the zoo, a first-grade class decorated their door with panda drawings. Kids visiting the zoo clamored for stuffed pandas toys or lapel pins featuring the serene likeness of a panda mother and her cub.
The naming, said Susan Elliott, the zoo’s director of public relations, was such a big deal that only a handful of zoo employees knew the name in advance. They had to sign a promise not to blab. Mei Lan is the only panda born outside China this year. Only four zoos in America have pandas.
Next to Beyonce’s phone number, “This is probably the one of the biggest secrets in Atlanta this year,” she said Thursday.
Now the secret is out. Soon, Mei Lan will be, too.
Zoo officials expect the cub, which has been taking her first tentative steps, to make an appearance outside with her mom any day now.
Click here for video and photos.
Services »
Comments
By Michelle
December 15, 2006 10:53 AM | Link to this
“Atlanta Beauty” was the name I voted for, I think it’s appropriate.
By Jason
December 15, 2006 10:53 AM | Link to this
Mei-Lan??? I liked the Bling-Bling idea…
By B Swanson
December 15, 2006 10:53 AM | Link to this
Such a beautiful name for such a beautiful little girl panda.
By Kim
December 15, 2006 10:53 AM | Link to this
This is the perfect name for our little panda…this is the name that my family voted for. Yeah Mei Lan!!!!!
By Yvonne
December 15, 2006 10:54 AM | Link to this
The perfect name for the perfect little panda!!!!
By Glo
December 15, 2006 10:54 AM | Link to this
Yes Atlanta Beauty suits this beautiufl bay cub just fine. I guess it won’t be a surprise to you to know she is already “pet named” and loved by many around the world. My name “our name” from a nearby eagle cam bLOG is Buta Buta. We will always call her that on the bLOG I am sure, But a proper Chinese name for such a beautiful baby panda is certainly well fitting. Atlanta can be proud of rheir Beauty!!!
By Connie
December 15, 2006 10:56 AM | Link to this
Yep, that was my choice from the beginning. Great name !!!
By Susan and Elizabeth
December 15, 2006 10:56 AM | Link to this
Welcome, Mei-Lan! A beautiful name for a beautiful cub.
By Carla
December 15, 2006 10:57 AM | Link to this
She’ll always be Snerk Snerk but I can live with Mei Lan even though I voted for Mei Tao.
By Cindy
December 15, 2006 10:57 AM | Link to this
Yay! I’m so excited. It’s not the name I voted for, but I’m still vey pleased. She’s just adorable and I look forward to reading about her, and seeing her every week.
By Latoya
December 15, 2006 10:57 AM | Link to this
Yaaaaaay! Thats the name that I chose. The name is “beautiful” just like our panda cub.
By disappointed
December 15, 2006 10:57 AM | Link to this
I don’t think the name should have included “Atlanta”. It doesn’t belong to Atlanta, and won’t stay here.
I voted for beautiful moon.
By Nana
December 15, 2006 10:57 AM | Link to this
Yeah Mei Lan, the name I voted for, Yes she is an atlantan beauty. Nana
By Deneese
December 15, 2006 10:58 AM | Link to this
A beautiful name for a BEAUTIFUL girl!!
By Mary Lee
December 15, 2006 10:58 AM | Link to this
While she wasn’t named after me, I think this choice is wonderful! Mei Lan gives everyone something to be proud of in our beautiful little cub!
By TLC
December 15, 2006 10:58 AM | Link to this
It’s a nice name. I really like the names that incorporated peach into it better. Oh well Mei Lan it is.
By Denise
December 15, 2006 10:59 AM | Link to this
Mei Lan ROCKS!
By Ron B.
December 15, 2006 11:00 AM | Link to this
Panda Watch. The mood is tense. I have been on some serious, serious reports but nothing quite like this.
By Mary
December 15, 2006 11:00 AM | Link to this
Tai Shan and Mei Lan. Wouldn’t they make a hansome couple? And think of the gorgeous offspring!
By r diva
December 15, 2006 11:00 AM | Link to this
I think Mei Lan is beautiful! Mei Lan Bling Bling is cuter. :)
By Tiffany
December 15, 2006 11:01 AM | Link to this
yay…i voted for Mei Lan. fitting and proper!
By It's Atlanta
December 15, 2006 11:02 AM | Link to this
Be very proud Atlanta!
You guys have one heck of a cub there! This will really benefit your city in ways yet seen - trust me!
By HS teacher Linda
December 15, 2006 11:02 AM | Link to this
Great choice! I voted at work AND at home for Mei Lan. It not only has a beautiful meaning, it sounds pretty, too!
By Randy
December 15, 2006 11:03 AM | Link to this
Typical liberals giving our Panda a foreign name. How about a real Southern name like Crystal or Darlene.
By Phyl
December 15, 2006 11:04 AM | Link to this
I think it is a lovely name - one that will forever tie her to Atlanta even if she sniff sniff has to go back to China!
By Brian F.
December 15, 2006 11:04 AM | Link to this
I tried to get an interview with him, but they said no, you can’t do that he’s a live bear, he will literally rip your face off.
By lovelyliz
December 15, 2006 11:04 AM | Link to this
Mei Lan will always an Atlanta Beauty no matter where she is.
By Lakshmi
December 15, 2006 11:04 AM | Link to this
I just love the name! Lakshmi
By Phyl
December 15, 2006 11:04 AM | Link to this
I think it is a lovely name - one that will forever tie her to Atlanta even if she sniff sniff has to go back to China!
By Shirley
December 15, 2006 11:04 AM | Link to this
I think it’s a great name! It reflects her Atlanta birthplace and all the zoo people who have worked so hard to give her a good start in life. All hail Mei Lan!!
By Phyl
December 15, 2006 11:05 AM | Link to this
I think it is a lovely name, one that will forever tie her to Atlanta even if she sniff sniff has to go back to China!
By Julia
December 15, 2006 11:06 AM | Link to this
That’s the best choice out of the list of names to choose from.
She is so adorable.
By Brian
December 15, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this
It is a great name. It is too bad though that there were two names with the word “Peach”. They captured a combined 32% of the vote. I voted for Beautiful Peach, but would have been happy with Little Peach. I would be willing to bet that if the people in charge of creating the name list had limited the list to one name with the word “Peach”, that name would have won. And it would have been a better name.
By Brian F.
December 15, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this
I think the name makes us look stupid. Panda jerk.
By JP
December 15, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this
Good name. Mei-Lan is the name I voted for. Its very fitting for such a beautiful panda.
By Christi
December 15, 2006 11:08 AM | Link to this
Hooray! I didn’t vote for this name, but its just great! Fits the little princess! How much fun has this all been?!
By jamique
December 15, 2006 11:08 AM | Link to this
Yea, my number one choice. But of course, she’s Atlanta’s BEAUTY!!
By rob
December 15, 2006 11:08 AM | Link to this
its still just a big bear!
By Susan
December 15, 2006 11:09 AM | Link to this
Mei Lan is perfect for Cubcake or CC for short as we had named her in PU. A name with the word beautiful describes the cub in one word.
By Suzanne Hall
December 15, 2006 11:09 AM | Link to this
Beautiful name for a beautiful cub! I belong to a group of “Eaglet Momsters” that watch the Shepherdstown eagle pair Liberty and Belle, and our group nicknamed Mai Lan “Buta Buta” because when she was born she looked like a chucky stick of butter! Congratulations to Mai Lan on such a beautiful name. Wouldn’t she be a beautiful wife for Tai Shan in the DC zoo? In a few years, of course!
By Mi Mi
December 15, 2006 11:10 AM | Link to this
Ron B. I feel the same way!
I voted for another name but this is ok. Maybe PANDA WATCH will die down now that she has a name. BTW, where is Ron Burgundy?
By Jex
December 15, 2006 11:10 AM | Link to this
Mei Lan is the name I voted for. Beautiful name for a beautiful little girl.
She won’t stay in Atlanta, but the name will always remind everyone where she was conceived, where she opened her eyes, where she took her first steps, and where everyone fell in love with her.
By Lisa
December 15, 2006 11:10 AM | Link to this
Mei Li (beautiful) was my first choice, Mei Lan was my second. Regardless of the name, she is a beauty! She is just adorable!!!
By Mary Ellen Rivers
December 15, 2006 11:11 AM | Link to this
The name is perfect.
By The Other Beauty
December 15, 2006 11:12 AM | Link to this
Mei Lan is cool. Personally I don’t think the cub cares what we call her…as long as we call her for dinner! ; )
By Suzanne
December 15, 2006 11:12 AM | Link to this
The name is ok, but doesn’t represent her roots in any way. The name that was chosen proves how egotistical we are.
By Alicia from Argentina
December 15, 2006 11:12 AM | Link to this
It´s a lovely mane
By Catalina
December 15, 2006 11:14 AM | Link to this
IT WAS THE NAME I VOTED FOR…..IT’S JUST THE PERFECT FIT FOR SUCH A CUTE LITTLE GIRL!
By Lex
December 15, 2006 11:14 AM | Link to this
Panda Watch. The mood is tense. I have been on some serious, serious reports but nothing quite like this.
Hahahaha… Ron B, this is exactly what I’ve been thinking from the very beginning. Hilarious!
By Jeri
December 15, 2006 11:14 AM | Link to this
A beautiful name to reflect both her U.S. birth and her Chinese heritage. She wears it well.
By Shelley
December 15, 2006 11:14 AM | Link to this
What a beautiful, beautiful Panda Mei Lan is a great name for our girl. She will forever be in the heart of Atlanta no matter where she goes. Not the name I voted for, but a beautiful name still. I’m very happy with it.
By mika
December 15, 2006 11:15 AM | Link to this
i voted for another name but this will do
By Margaret
December 15, 2006 11:15 AM | Link to this
I have a new grandbaby who was born in August. Her Chinese name is Mei Lan, and she is also very beautiful. This is a special day - they will always be linked. It was meant to be! I am so excited! Thank you to everyone who voted for the name. They are both extremely cuddly too.
By Laury T
December 15, 2006 11:16 AM | Link to this
I think the name is very appropriate for our new little girl!
By Alan
December 15, 2006 11:17 AM | Link to this
I still think CHA CHING is better. It means Money for the Atlanta Zoo.
By Political Foreskin
December 15, 2006 11:17 AM | Link to this
NO! Call the new panda, “Bling Bling”.
Aw, come on! It’s perfect. Bling Bling will bring tourists tourists.
BLING BLING!!!!
By T. Mapes
December 15, 2006 11:19 AM | Link to this
We like Mei Lan, but to our family she will still be known as Pandora.
By cj
December 15, 2006 11:19 AM | Link to this
I’ll still call her Persimmon!
By Pat
December 15, 2006 11:21 AM | Link to this
Mei Lan!!! how fitting..the name I voted for!!! and a special thanks to AJC’S Mark Davis.. his reporting of her growth is so enjoyable to read!!
By Political Foreskin
December 15, 2006 11:21 AM | Link to this
Dennis Kelly, you are fired. That name is zzzzz.
We need tourists. We want business. Your name is anethemic to tourism.
But think, man, what a panda named “bling bling” would bring to atlanta.
You, sir, are fired. Doesn’t tax money support that zoo? Then that makes me your donald trump.
YOU’RE FIRED!!!!
Me to the guy who cleans out the monkey cages: You are the new zoo director. Name the panda, “Bling Bling”.
By shika
December 15, 2006 11:22 AM | Link to this
That’s Cute!!!!!!!! Welcome to Atlanta Mei-Lan
By Theresa in San Jose
December 15, 2006 11:22 AM | Link to this
I’m very excited that my pick for this beautiful little girl won! She is “The” Atlanta Beauty! Congratulations to China, the city of Atlanta, the Atlanta Zoo Panda Team and the people of Atlanta for such love and dedication to Mei Lan and her parents! What an outstanding group effort and best of all, we get to share in that. Mei Lan, you’re loved all over the world!
By Political Foreskin
December 15, 2006 11:23 AM | Link to this
WE WANT BLING BLING
WE WANT BLING BLING
WE WANT BLING BLING
WE WANT BLING BLING
I dont care if what the people voted for the people are morons, and besides most of them will never visit the zoo.
WE WANT BLING BLING!!!!
By Lori Lynn
December 15, 2006 11:23 AM | Link to this
Mei Lan is the perfect name for this beautiful baby panda, I have been watching her grow up on the panda cam and when I saw that you were going to be naming her Mei Lan is the one that I was hoping you would name her.
By Susan
December 15, 2006 11:24 AM | Link to this
hi from Canada - we love her no matter what her name is. We watch her from work and she is often the best part of the day! thanks Atlanta Zoo!
By test
December 15, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this
Please no more “Peach.” Don’t we have enough already used in Atlanta :-).
Mei Lan is really good name for her. I wish little panda a long and peaceful live for many years to come.
By jj- Rome GA
December 15, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this
Great Name!!! I like it.
By L Duron
December 15, 2006 11:27 AM | Link to this
Mei Lan, what a perfect name for such a Beautiful Panda! I am excited and can’t wait to share the news with my daughter.
By test
December 15, 2006 11:27 AM | Link to this
oops peaceful life, meant to say
By Eric
December 15, 2006 11:29 AM | Link to this
I know a big deal has been made about this little panda, but after the death of world famous Willie B and the impending passing of Gaspar, it is nice to see this little addition to Atlanta doing well.
By Nana
December 15, 2006 11:30 AM | Link to this
Now I can’t wait to see Mei Lan walking
By samantha
December 15, 2006 11:31 AM | Link to this
i still like bling bling but mei lan is nice
By Noelle
December 15, 2006 11:32 AM | Link to this
Yay, my pick won! I have a good friend named Mei, and I thought the name was both beautiful and appropriate.
By Kym aka Southern Girl
December 15, 2006 11:32 AM | Link to this
I like Mei Lan I voted for Mei Tao but I think Mei Lan is perfect she was born in Atlanta, and is a southern belle so even when she goes to China she will have carry a little bit of “home” with her. She’s a beauty our little Mei Lan.
By Ron B.
December 15, 2006 11:34 AM | Link to this
From everyone at the AJC, you stay classy Atlanta. And thanks for stopping by. But mostly stay classy.
By Judy
December 15, 2006 11:35 AM | Link to this
She is a beauty! And it’s the name I voted for! I love her!
By Kim
December 15, 2006 11:39 AM | Link to this
My 6th & 7th grade classes have followed Mei Lan from day one!!!!!!!!!!! We went to the computer lab and voted …………this was our choice!!!!!!! Mei Lan you have alot of friends here in TENNESSEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Marilyn
December 15, 2006 11:39 AM | Link to this
I voted for Ming Yue (Bright Moon) because Mei is such a common name (e.g., Mei Xiang at National Zoo), but Mei Lan is a more beautiful name. I don’t know why I love pandas so much!
By Jo Lennox
December 15, 2006 11:40 AM | Link to this
Welcome Mei Lan I have watched you since your birth and LunLun has been one attentive mother to you. Now you’re ready to crawl out of the nest bed and explore your world with your official name! You will always be Buta Buta to us on the Eagle Blog in WV. Like everyone else, I’m sure, we all would love to have held you.
By jeff
December 15, 2006 11:41 AM | Link to this
I like the name……BBQ Bear
By mystique
December 15, 2006 11:47 AM | Link to this
Welcome, Mei-Lan. Very cute! Thank God its not Bling-Bling…
By Brett
December 15, 2006 11:48 AM | Link to this
I have not been to the Atlanta Zoo since I was a kid (about 20 years ago), and I really haven’t had an interest in going back because the Atlanta Zoo sucks…not to mention the surounding element. Yes, the panda is cute. No, it does not make me want to visit the zoo. WHO CARES!?!
By Awwwgeeeze
December 15, 2006 11:52 AM | Link to this
Can you feel the warm and fuzzy just over flowing here?
By itsme
December 15, 2006 11:53 AM | Link to this
Meil Lan is a fine name. Thanks for the coverage, AJC. Keep it coming. It’s a bright spot in the day.
By Nicole
December 15, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this
Brett,
Obviously a lot of people care. Over 50,000 people cared enough to vote on a name for the panda. You want to know what people DON”T care about? Your stupid, childish comments and opinions. The cub is beautiful, as is her new name.
By Gary the K
December 15, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this
In what language does Mei-Lan translate to “Atlanta beauty”? Was a new language created just to name the panda?
By trisha
December 15, 2006 12:06 PM | Link to this
She has three names that she will always have for me - fluff butt, litta girl, and lih girl.
I refused to vote (yeah I know who cares) as part of a protest of the on-going loser behavior of Zoo Atlanta to everyone but those few who have the freedom to watch 10-5 WEEKDAYS (yeah I know, who cares).
If you were one of us who is shut out from watching her grow, you would care. But that takes caring about more than yourself - and from responses I see here, that’s not a prevalent characteristic.
And oh yeah, before you think that I’m one who cares only about myself, I would have gladly given up time to the people of China who get totally screwed unless they stay up all night. So much for the well-thought-out and CARING plan of the UNSELFISH decisions makers at Zoo Atlanta. The host country is nothing more than an after thought.
Finally, had I voted, it would have been for the name Mei Lan. (Yeah I know, who cares).
:)))
By Southern Democrat
December 15, 2006 12:08 PM | Link to this
Brett,
If you haven’t been in 20 years, you wouldn’t even recognize Zoo Atlanta. It is completely different than the old Atlanta Zoo… you should definitely give it another chance.
By laurie
December 15, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this
I voted for this name so I’m happy it won, but I still chuckle over the Dumpsterpup nickname that popped up here a few weeks back…
By E. Mutz
December 15, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this
Panda Watch and the mood is tense!!!
They named it “My Lawn”? Hmm…Not one to write home about. Bling bling…. at least someone might remember that. No need for a pronunciation guide either. Then again, my folks named me Emo, so I need not comment I guess.
That being said, how many zoo critters can you name? Shamu? The only other one I recall is a Polar Bear named “Binky” who lived at the Alaska Zoo. Cool name for a 1,200 lb bear.
I suppose in the grand scheme of things, it doesn’t matter. It’s not as though the Panda is going to come when you call it. Rather like most housecats, but there we are.
Respectfully, &c, Mutz (E)
By Jackie
December 15, 2006 12:19 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Atlanta! Mei Lan is a beautiful name for a beautiful little girl. She was nicknamed Little Bit from this family in the NorthEast. We hope she can stay in Atlanta forever…her home.
By ML
December 15, 2006 12:26 PM | Link to this
Not a good name, she isn’t even going to stay here in Atlanta. Bright Star would have been more appropiate.
By Brett
December 15, 2006 12:26 PM | Link to this
Nicole,
yes, 50,000 people apparently do care. Unfortunately, the other 4,950,000 people who live in the metro area, including me, don’t.
By Alessandra
December 15, 2006 12:27 PM | Link to this
I voted for Ping Bao: in Usa there are MEI Xiang at Washington Zoo, Hua MEI and MEI Sheng at San Diego Zoo so I thought to change a little. But of course Mei Lan is pretty good. I write from Venice- Italy
By CS
December 15, 2006 12:34 PM | Link to this
Beautiful name for an absolutely beautiful baby! Could NOT be more thrilled about her name!
By Jonathan
December 15, 2006 12:40 PM | Link to this
The name I voted for, beautiful cub with a perfect name. Easy to say it as well
By Jackie
December 15, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this
ML,
Even though Mei Lan will probably leave, we hope she doesn’t. No matter what she was named, her roots will always be in Atlanta…her birth home. From a family in the NorthEast, we love you Atlanta and your baby girl, Mei Lan.
By Michael Kelly
December 15, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this
I am really disappionted,the Panda is not staying in Atlanta, and the name shouldn’t have included Atlanta.
But anbyway can’t wait to see her in person, I keep calling the zoo it says sometime in Jan. but hoping for next Saturday, as that is the only time I’ll be in Atlanta for Xmas.
By Granty
December 15, 2006 12:44 PM | Link to this
I would have named the bear Drew. The reason being is because I work with a drew who is cute and cuddly just like the precious little panda bear that is at Zoo Atlanta. The little poofy face, those cute little ears. It would have been a perfect match.
By Ashley
December 15, 2006 12:50 PM | Link to this
I love her name!
It’s so pretty and I love how she will honor her Atlanta roots even when she has to go to China. We have enough Peach named things here, I’m glad we can have something “beautiful” associated with our city!
She is so cute and watching her on Panda cam gets me through some days at work! :) I can’t wait until she is walking and I can go see her!
By Carol Smith
December 15, 2006 12:55 PM | Link to this
Hooray! My third grade homeroom students have been waiting for this day. By majority vote, “Mei Lan” was our choice.
By Hari
December 15, 2006 12:56 PM | Link to this
The name DEFINITELY should have been Xaio Tao. Without a doubt.
I call for a runoff! 22% is too small of a margin. How about a revote with the top three?
By Pamela G
December 15, 2006 01:02 PM | Link to this
Congratulations to Atlanta Zoo and Atlanta City. Your cub-naming ceremony was lovely, and Mei Lan is a pretty and appropriate name for your little girl. She will doubtless have a hundred nicknames - all the Panda cubs in America do - but no matter what people call her, she will charm you, amuse you, and brighten your day immeasurably as you watch her antics on the Pandacam or at the zoo. Put a bigger dial on your cute-meter, folks, Mei Lan’s coming-out party will be coming up soon!
By zoofan
December 15, 2006 01:03 PM | Link to this
To the folks who have complained about Zoo Atlanta’s Panda Cam: The hours are the same as before the birth. If you want extended hours, pay the cost of 24/7 coverage yourself. CNN all-the-time coverage was temporary and we all benefitted by their generous sponsorship. Then, Earthlink stepped up, how about you?
By Toot
December 15, 2006 01:03 PM | Link to this
I don’t like the name Mei Lan, nor the other nine names on the list, I voted to name the Panda, YUM YUM…now, I will continue to call her Baby Panda
By Viewer
December 15, 2006 01:08 PM | Link to this
It’s clear that the majority of the votes came from Atlantians and surrounding areas. It’s a nice name—all the choices were, but I think we have too many Meis in the U.S. — this was our opportunity to make a distinction.
By brick tamland
December 15, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this
I love lamp!
By Susan
December 15, 2006 01:18 PM | Link to this
You don’t have to be from Georgia to love this name and cub. We are in California and think the world of her. The name is perfect as she is the most beautiful baby panda ever!!!!
By Fain Denicke
December 15, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this
I’m so happy happy happy that the name I voted for was chosen….Mei Lan is perfect for our precious little angel. I watch her every day and get such joy from watching her interact with her Mom. I’m going to miss the Panda Cam when she grows up and isn’t in her baby nest anymore. Thank you Zoo Atlanta for sharing this phenominal happening!
By Nicole
December 15, 2006 01:34 PM | Link to this
Brett,
If you don’t care, then stop reading and posting to the freakin’ blog!
By Maria Patterson
December 15, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this
Welcome home Mai Lan.
By Hamilton
December 15, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this
Does anyone know if they sell panda jerky in the zoo gift shop? That’s some good eatin’! All of you need to watch the movie ‘Anchorman’ so you’ll realize how ridiculous you are acting…over a panda.
By Ting Ting
December 15, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this
Hello, the name is cute! However, the translation is incorrect. “Lan” is orchid in Chinese. Mei-lan means beautiful orchid. I am not sure where they got “Beauty Atlanta” from.
By DudeMan
December 15, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this
Personally, I like the name Dudette….dude! Or Drive-By.
By Hamilton
December 15, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this
I went to lunch at Panda Express today, but they didn’t have any panda. Talk about false advertising!!!
By get a life
December 15, 2006 01:42 PM | Link to this
Who Cares!!
By Michael
December 15, 2006 01:44 PM | Link to this
Yes, the panda is cute. Now that we’ve got it named, can we back off on the constant updates. It’s not front page news every time the thing licks itself.
By Hamilton
December 15, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this
I love pandas. They taste much better than chicken.
By Jan R
December 15, 2006 01:54 PM | Link to this
I think some of you people really have a “bad attitude”. Obviously you liked the story or you wouldn’t have been pulling it up and reading it, or you should would not have bothered to make a comment. I like her name, at least it is translated to have an Atlanta meaning, since she was born here and of Chinese descent…however, I rather liked Mei Tao too. Have a good day!! Some of you need to smile more, and stop griping!!
By James
December 15, 2006 01:56 PM | Link to this
Mei Lan was my second choice after Mei Tao. Bling Bling is still her nickname.
Brett: For over four years, I have lived lived approx. 1 mile from the Zoo, and frequently go running in and around Grant Park. As part of the “surrounding element,” I say this: We’re glad you haven’t visited in 20 years, and we don’t care if you ever come again.
By Clint
December 15, 2006 01:56 PM | Link to this
Buh Buh would’ve been better. It means “good ‘ol boy (or girl)” in Southern English.
By pass
December 15, 2006 01:56 PM | Link to this
Wow.
By Margaret
December 15, 2006 02:02 PM | Link to this
Wish we had a panda here! She is absolutely beautiful and your city is so lucky to have a panda family!
By panda lover
December 15, 2006 02:04 PM | Link to this
IN OUR HOUSEHOLD SHE WILL ALWAYS REMAIN (BLING-BLING).
By sydney and mom
December 15, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this
This is the name we voted for! She is an Atlanta Beauty! Can’t wait to see her! Merry Christmas from Conyers.
By sydney and mom
December 15, 2006 02:08 PM | Link to this
This is the name we voted for! She is truly an Atlanta Beauty! Can’t wait to see her in person. Merry Christmas from Conyers,Ga
By maira
December 15, 2006 02:19 PM | Link to this
dang why does the world have to have panda haters just cus its cute shame on all of yall who hate ANYWAY she was not all that adorable at birth but she got cuter as she aged now shes a little angel wonder if she could be with tai
By Donna from PA!
December 15, 2006 02:20 PM | Link to this
Baby Lun Lun as I often called her, has her own name! How wonderful & beautiful. Altho, I voted for Ming Yue (bright moon), Mai Lan fits her well. I also believe Tian Shan (Washington Zoo) & Mai Lan make a beautiful couple how cute would their babies be! Best Wishes Zoo Atlanta from our home in PA!
By Betty
December 15, 2006 02:21 PM | Link to this
She is just precious. I have loved watching her grow these past 100 days.
By RC in Virginia
December 15, 2006 02:25 PM | Link to this
Where are the beautiful photos of the cub that AJC.com had this morning before the naming ceremony? They were of Mei Lan yesterday during her weekly examination and a gorgeous one of her and her mother afterwards. The only photos I find now are of the naming ceremony and those of previous examinations. I’ve enjoyed watching Mei Lan grow since birth. Her name is the one my daughter and I voted for. My family just may have to make a trip sometime soon to Atlanta from Virginia to see the “Atlanta Beauty”! -RC
By Gasper
December 15, 2006 02:27 PM | Link to this
Hey! Excuse me! Dying whale over here! Hello?!
By genie
December 15, 2006 02:49 PM | Link to this
Are we going to have to give up this georgious baby one day? i see where lun lun was taken from her mother at a very early age. i hope she will be in atlanta forever.
By By Pamela
December 15, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this
From Northern Indiana, Congratulations Atlanta! “Atlanta Beauty” is already living up to her name. I’v watched her online since she was born.
By Trina
December 15, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this
Great name it connects her to the place where she was born and to here Asian heritage. Perfect choice
By Trina
December 15, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this
Great name it connects her to the place where she was born and to her Asian heritage. Perfect choice
By Gary the K
December 15, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this
I think they should have chosen “ping pong”. It means “another game Americans aren’t good at” in the same language Mei Lan (Atlanta beauty) was translated from.
By Paul Wojcik
December 15, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this
I estimate that approximately 98% of the above comments were made by people in the 12 and under age group
By Mimi
December 15, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Atlanta Zoo!! My family and I have checked on Mei Lan every day since she was born just as we have checked on our little boy Tai in Washington. We read all the daily updates and love viewing her check-ups.We have relatives in Atlanta and will be anxious to see Mei and her mom in “person.”
By Paulie
December 15, 2006 03:14 PM | Link to this
Wait a minute! There is a baby panda at the zoo? Why hasn’t this been mentioned before?
If I had a vote to name the baby panda I would have voted to name her “Jon Benet” or the Chinese equivalent for “bear that sits in zoo and eats bamboo.”
By Michelle
December 15, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this
I suspected the translation was off. Oh well. It’s still pretty, even if it translates into “Beautiful toilet-seat”
By joy
December 15, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this
MEI LAN — WELCOME TO THE WORLD FOR THE SECOND TIME — ONCE AT BIRTH AND SECOND AT NAMING — SHE IS A BEAUTIFUL CREATURE FROM GOD (NOT TO MENTION ALL THE HELP SHE HAD BEING CREATED) THANK YOU ALL AT THE ZOO FOR SHARING YOUR PRECIOUS GIFT WITH US ALL — MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR — PLEASE GIVE A BIG HUG AND KISS TO ALL THE GIANT PANDA FROM A NURES IN IOWA - JOY
By jack
December 15, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this
What a weak name! I think Tater Salad would have been more fitting!
By Miriam
December 15, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this
Oh well. Mei Lan is a very nice name, but I like Little Peach better. I love you, Mei Lan!!!
By Kathy
December 15, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this
Perfect name for a perfect little cubbie!
Bling Bling? Give me a break! That is just insulting.
By Josh Childress
December 15, 2006 04:16 PM | Link to this
What? No “Bling Bling?”You gotta be kidding me!
By Dennis Carney
December 15, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this
Mei Lan is appropriate.It’s a shame that Zoo Atlanta 1 of 4 Zoo’s in America dropped their ranking from a tie with # 1 in Panda Cam viewing to #4 in ranking with their restrictive Panda Cam Hours. Rankings of other Zoo’s Tie for # 1 between Smithsonian National Zoo who has 24 hour coverage with 2 switchable camera views and San Diego Zoo with a 24 hour coverage as well as a synopsis of the day. # 3 goes to Memphis Zoo with 24 hour coverage and from a tie in the #1 to its present ranking # 4 Zoo Atlanta with its limited restricted viewing hours. Shame on you Zoo Atlanta!!!!
By jason
December 15, 2006 04:34 PM | Link to this
It appears that the marketing dept. of the zoo has done it’s job of hooking a vast majority of the Atlanta public. Now that the fur ball has an “Atlanta” name you all want to run out to the zoo and pay some exorbitant fee just to get in and be able to say “I saw the Panda.” While you are dropping your hard earned $$’s on T-shirts and stuffed panda bears the zoo will be laughing all the way to the bank.
And for what it’s worth if you think the name was actually chosen by popular vote then you are all a bunch of brain-dead hillbillys. The Chinese government would never allow Americans to chose a name for one of their beloved animals. That name was most likely chosen before the cub drew its first breath. Actually, I am surprised that the Chinese did not snatch the pandas right back to the far east after the Chinese were exposed to the ignorance of some of the names submitted. You can rest assured that the Chinese do not make fun of the panda’s names like we did. Now, yes, the cub is a beautiful little critter. It’s just sad that the public is gullible enough to get sucked into the marketing black hole created by the local media and the zoo.
By mdbatl
December 15, 2006 05:01 PM | Link to this
Does the hype of this panda cub not remind anyone of Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy. Not that I’m knocking it- I think the panda is really cool, but it is hilariously similar to the movie.
By mdbatl
December 15, 2006 05:04 PM | Link to this
Sorry Ron B, I didn’t see your post. Too true though.
By Akennas
December 15, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this
I personally wanted Ka-Ching! (like the sound a cash register makes), but Mei Lan will do just fine.
By Donna Lakly
December 15, 2006 05:17 PM | Link to this
Congratulations to Dr. Michelle Lakly on all of her contributions and a successful celebration for Zoo Atlanta. Fantastic job.
By JC
December 15, 2006 05:58 PM | Link to this
Mai Tai or Moon Pi would be great names! And tasty too!
No, I’m not advocating eating the bear.
Third choice: Sonny Du :)
By Akagi
December 15, 2006 06:00 PM | Link to this
Actually it doesn’t mean Atlanta Beauty. It actually means beautiful orchid.
Atlanta in Chinese is Ya Te Lan Da (亞特蘭大) And beautiful would be mei li (美麗) or when used to describe a person piao liang (漂亮). When two Chinese words are combined to form a complex term, the first chracter in each word are used…not the fourth. In this case the term would be Mei Ya (美亞) not Mei Lan (美麗).
Add to that how unoriginal it is…how many other pandas have mei in their names (e.g Hua Mei (華美) and Mei Sheng (美生).
By Tracy
December 15, 2006 06:07 PM | Link to this
Happy 100 Days Mei Lan. You are truly our Atlanta Beauty. You have brought much joy to people all over the world. No matter what others say…your birth and life in Atlanta will be a memorable time for years to come. Of course I voted for Mei Lan so I couldnt be happier. Here’s to a long, healthy life little girl!!!
By GLee
December 15, 2006 06:44 PM | Link to this
Finally, some one who understands real Chinese and speaks out! Mei means “beautiful”, Lan means “orchid”, so “Mei Lan” means “beautiful orchid” people! Not a word has any thing to do with Atlanta, but you can think that way if you like. No matter what, the little baby panda is as beautiful as orchid. She is not only beautiful but also unique. Handsome Tai Shan and Beautiful Mei Lan can be a perfect panda couple, no doubt!
By Debra
December 16, 2006 07:39 AM | Link to this
“The name is ok, but doesn’t represent her roots in any way. The name that was chosen proves how egotistical we are.”
I wholeheartedly agree with this comment by Suzanne. This observation is supported by the fact that the “peach” names (ugh!) represented 32% of the vote.
By disappointed native
December 16, 2006 08:32 AM | Link to this
Bling Bling? Yeah, right - that would have really captured the essence of what ATL has sunk to these days. Some people have way too much free time.
By Lee
December 16, 2006 09:52 AM | Link to this
I think we should all be thankful that she wasn’t named after a politician.
By Political Foreskin
December 16, 2006 10:26 AM | Link to this
Nobody can pronounce Mai Len. Nobody can spell it. Nobody cares what it means, and nobody is going to travel to the Atlanta Zoo for Losers to see that horrid picnic-basket-stealin’ bear.
I demand we rename the panda, “Bling Bling”.
WHY? Because “Bling bling” is in the vernacular. It’s become more that the original meaning and has the potential to travel around the world and become synonymous with the Atlanta Zoo for Winners.
Not long ago, all pandas were named with some rhyme of “ling” or “ming”, so people will get in line with “bling bling” and realize how wonderful a name it really is.
Also, bling bling will lose it’s rap origins and become mainstream and global.
I’m telling you, with bling bling, we can save atlanta, the homeless, the illegal aliens, the middle east, and der verld!!!
Ich bein Ein Bling Bling(enhiemer)!!!!
By Political Foreskin
December 16, 2006 10:43 AM | Link to this
The name May Lay, or whatever, is mandarin for, “Helmeted short bus riding bear”. No kidding. I googled it man, and wikopedia proves it.
Bling bling is so perfect, and let me tell you something, my fellow atantans, that unless we name this picnic-basket-stealin’, ranger-thwartin’ bear Bling Bling, then some other city’s zoo will, and they will taken over ze verld of ze animals-in-cagens and we will be left with a cartoon bear and no boo boo to make us laugh.
BOO BOO! we should have called it BOO BOO!
WE WANT BOO BOO!
WE WANT BOO BOO!
WE WANT BOO BOO!
Everybody go to your windows and shout it out now!! WE WANT BOO BOO!
WE WANT BOO BOO!
They’re shouting it in Smyrna…..they’re shouting it in Buckhead….they’re shouting it over in that area where you turn left at the big chicken…….
Bling Bling or bust, people. I am calling for a world-wide boycott of Mae Lain, (whatever), the atlanta zoo for losers, the entire piedmont tectonic plate, and the global industry of protozoopathological, zoodynamical zoopery.
No zoo 4U unless I get my way!!!
By Political Foreskin
December 16, 2006 11:33 AM | Link to this
One more thing. Seriously. The name Mai Len is too close to “Mai Lai”, which is the disgrace of this country’s involvement in Vietnam, and for which we can never be forgiven.
Why invoke such a horror? That’s why Dennis Kelly needs to resign. Not to have seen that public relations disaster is beyond understanding.
Dennis: You’re fired. (the donald)
By Mike
December 16, 2006 01:07 PM | Link to this
‘Atlanta beauty’ is a wonderful name. I would like to know more about the translation from ‘Mei Lan’.
By Denise
December 16, 2006 01:36 PM | Link to this
VERY fitting name, especially because the adorable little cherub was born here! It’s been fun watching Mei Lan grow up. Cheers!
By LaVonne
December 16, 2006 01:54 PM | Link to this
Brett, You saying you don’t care is just what’s wrong with this world. So many people don’t care about anything and that’s why the world is in such a mess. We need to care about everything to preserve this wonderful planet we were given the opportunity to live on and care for! Our children and future generations deserve to enjoy the precious resources that we HAVE to care for.
By Political Foreskin
December 16, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this
I think I can translate “mai len” from the original Taobonics. (according to chopstickopedia)
Now the original use of “May lin” was as item #27 on the menu at the Silver Dragon Restaurant in beautiful downtown Manchu City during the Celestial Empire’s first Year of the Fried Rat. However, that was replaced by Mo Shu Pork about the time of the Ming Dynasty.
It is interesting to note that the first appearance of Kung Pao Shrimp in US Chinese restaurants coincided with the first mauling of a vegas magic act by trained dancing panda bears.
Coincidence? I dont think so. But back to the original meaning of Mae Len: Who cares what it means, it’s a boring name which no average american will ever pronounce correctly or remember or care about.
We blew a great chance to do something great, all because americans are blog-simple.
By Justin
December 17, 2006 08:49 AM | Link to this
YEAH! Mei Lan is the name I chose! I think the name is beautiful and the baby panda is too!….Some of you need to get a grip on life. How can you write such ignorant statements about the naming and birth of such a beautiful creature? Some of you don’t care about anything, and that the reason the world is in such a mess now! Congratulations Mei Lan!
By Justin
December 17, 2006 08:52 AM | Link to this
…..and too Politcal Foreskin…you are an idiot! First of all, the Panda is not going to remain in the U.S. She is going back to China in about two years, so to say American’s will never be able to pronounce her name correctly is just plain stupid.
By Political Foreskin
December 17, 2006 09:21 AM | Link to this
Well I never…..!!
By Pamela G
December 18, 2006 12:15 PM | Link to this
Political Foreskin needs to be the guest of honor at a bris.
By StillbornDittos
December 18, 2006 12:27 PM | Link to this
D’OH!
By Susan
December 18, 2006 12:29 PM | Link to this
Although my children at school, as well as my daughter and I at home, voted for Mei Li, we think Mei Lan is also a pretty name for our panda! But I do have a question about how to pronounce it correctly. Does “Lan” rhyme with “ran” or does it sound “lawn”?
By curious
December 18, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this
I think the name is perfect but it would be nice to know who came up with the winning name.
By Touche
December 18, 2006 01:50 PM | Link to this
Political Foreskin: While I disagree with your sentiments that Mei Lan’s name is inappropriate, I would have to say that the name you selected for yourself is quite apt.
And if you assume everything you read on Wikipedia is true, then you’re more simple than the bloggers you refer to in your earlier post.
By Political Foreskin
December 18, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this
Dear Touche, I didn’t say I looked up the Wikipedia. Because we are talking about a chinese, what I looked up was in the Wok-ipedia. I was searching for the original Tao-bonics of Mae Len, the name that was chosen for the half-panda, half-monkey, cross-species in-vitro freak that China is trying to pawn off on us, that’s all. The only problem is, a half hour later, I had to look it up again.
Have you seen the photos of Mai Lin? I dont think thats a Panda, man. I dont know. I’m frightened.
I knew the rangers weren’t going to like this, yogi.
By joe
December 18, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this
How typical of Atlanta — including our city’s name in the panda’s name for even more self-boosterism.
By annoyed
December 18, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this
I cant believe we named the panda ‘Mei Lan’. It doesnt even make sense and so therefore it makes us look very stupid. Good job guys!
By Brittany
December 19, 2006 07:45 AM | Link to this
I do have to say I didn’t vote for Mai-lan but I am glad that it won. On second thought I think it is perfect!!