Tony Varela's Dodger Stadium Blog

"You - Start - Me - Up!" : Dodgers vs Brewers

 

 

SHOWDOWN

 

LA Dodger Josh Beckett 0-3

 

versus

 

Milwaukee Brewer H. Burgos 1-1

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 In the Burger Stand,

 

I’m late to work again. 

Everyone is out to their break time but me and Boss Lady.

 

“There is no meat,” she informs me. 

 

The rest of the ingredients are good to go thanks to my peeps.

 

(Wash hands with soap and hot water- latex gloves)

 

I proceed to insert numerous turkey patties in the upper track of the broiler.  Next, I open the plastic

bag that contains the sesame seed buns and insert the bread tops and bottoms on the lower conveyer

track that leads to the toaster in the machine.  These foods, the meat and the bread, which are inserted

into the back of the broiler, will come out well-done from the opposite side.  Once all of bread is put in,

I continue to add turkey patties but I mistakenly drop a patty on the floor- Right in front of the Boss. 

 

Naturally, I have to pick-up the patty so I am just about to grab the piece of plastic that had contained

the bread in an effort to use it as a . . . .

 

“Use the plastic to pick up the turkey,” Bossy demands.

(She looks all serious)

 

Bubble:  ???

 

I’m instantly annoyed, “You just want to tell me what to do- even though I already know.”

(She is instantly annoyed)

 

“Antonio Varela!  You know what you can do!”

 

(Eyes are locked)

 

Bubble: She is hinting at ‘If you don’t like it- then leave (the Stand)’.

 

“I think, you know, what you-can-do . . . keep your advice to yourself.”

 

“Then do it,” she says.

 

“Noooo, you do it,” I repeat.

 

“If you don’t like it, then you can leave.”

 

“Leave?  You can leave (just like you left your last stand), when-ever-you-want!”

 

“Exactly, Antonio Varela!”

 

“Exactly!”

 

Bubble: Whatever you. . .

 

Bossy’s Bubble: Whatever you . . .

 

+++

 

Break room time,

 

 As soon as I get comfortable in the employee rest area, I’m watching the news on the tiny t.v. screen

when my friend Roxy the Lucky Charm sits next to me for some chit-chat.  Quick to talk, she seems

to have some things on her mind. 

 

“Have you been writing (the Blog)?” she asks me.  I tell her that I do when I can. 

 

“What do you write about?”

 

“Well, if I feel like writing about sitting down and drinking a cup of coffee, then I might write about it.”

 

“Have you thought about writing (on) controversial topics?” she implores.  I’m not sure what she means

so I ask her if she is talking about “immigration” or something of the sort.  “Yeah, she nods, do you

write about serious issues (besides) what happens (at the Stadium)?”  I’m not sure what she is saying but

I tell her that I believe in the “American Dream”- illegal or not.  Bubble: Does she mean do I covering

the war in Afghanistan?  Roxy goes on to say how the "world is a F-ed up place" but no specifics.

 

“Do you mean, do I write about controversial matters regarding the Stadium, like:  Does the tons of

trash we use to serve food like plastic products and cups get recycled after every Dodger game- or

does it go straight to a landfill?   She nods her head but I’m not convinced I hit the target.  I ask Roxy

to give me an example of what to write about . . . . she nods her head.  “What would you write about?” I

ask one more time. 

 

“Me?”

 

“Yes.”

 

Her eyes slide to the right, then back at me and she smiles- uncertain.

 

“Do you mean something like gay marriage?”

 

“Yes!”she entertains.

 

“Well, I mentioned (in a blog) that we spoke about homosexuality.”

 

“You did.” She didn’t read it apparently.

 

Bubble: I got one! 

 

“What about when the Dodger “Kiss Cam” is capturing couples in their seats?  I ask, Why is it

that cameras always show heterosexual couples kissing on the Jumbo Tron?  Why can’t they show . .

 

“Two girls . .” she interjects.

 

“No, two gay dudes kiss.”  Her eyes widen, shocked- she did say ‘write something controversial.’”

So there you have it . . . why not? 

 

Personally, I think the public isn’t ready to see it, period

 

+++

 

The National Anthem is performed by Rod Delaney.  Sounded fantastic!

 

+++

 

Once I return to the Stand. It’s obvious that my peeps are getting the job done: 

 

Boss is busy cooking the books at her table/office.

 

Tommy the comic book aficionado is feeding the broiler. Boss has decided to make a vegan work with

meat, apparently.  (LOL, Tom’s a good sport) 

 

J.C the Fry Guy is busy stuffing 16 ounce cups with freedom fires.

 

Jazz, Maribel, and Hamburger Helper are diligently working the burger line.  All three of them are

leaning forward on the silver counter, their backs to the front of the Stand.  I wash my hands in hot-hot

water, slip on some latex fingers, and attempt to help them with stacking burger buns but I’m wedged

out of the way by Jazz.  I’m being ignored. 

 

Bubble: O.K., I’ll just refill the BBQ sauce, the pickles, and onions. 

 

I have to reach over and under the girls to fulfill my objective. 

 

“Refill the lettuce, too” Hamburger Helper orders. 

 

Bubble: But . . .

 

“You can’t get in there,” the Fry Guy notices.

 

Bubble: These Ladies of the Stand are chock full of hubris, it seams tonight.

 

“That’s fine!  We will see who will last (on the line), come mid-August.”

 

Bubble: These girls got some stones . . . they better not forget I taught them everything they know.

 

I repeat my thoughts aloud.

 

Jazz contests, “I was trained at the (Burger Stand) on the Field Level.”

 

“But this (the Reserve Level) is the Big Time,” Fry Guy counters.

 

Under my breath, “Field Level? -  Ha!”

 

Bossy Lady shouts from across the Stand, “Shut up J.C!” 

 

Bubble: At least someone’s got my back, jeezuzz!

 

+++

 

5^th inning,

 

After hustling burgers for most of the game, Maribel says aloud, “Look! There's (comedian) Felipe  

Esparza.  All of us try to peek through the Stand a la cart window to get a glimpse.  “He is the one with

the Mexico (National Soccer Team) jacket,” Mari claims.  Apparently he was the winner of the “Last

Comedian Standing” reality t.v. show, a few years back.

 

Next, Hamburger Helper is on her on her way to the break room to look him up on youtube.  

She returns a few minutes later cracking up.

 

 “OMG, Maribel adds, Did you see the (video) of the girl who has a baby standing up?- I was like,

ewww.”  We all laugh at the thought of the video.  Maribel also claims that the lady giving birth

vertically did it with out working a sweat. 

 

Bubble: Amazing!

 

  

+++

 

 

Before we make our way home most of us are at peace.  Dodgers won after all- the perfect panacea to a

night full of attitude.  Another cure for the drama is some good ol’ nerd talk.  So I ask Tommy what he

thinks of the Star Trek reboot sequel that is about to open soon. 

 

Regarding the first film, Tommy says,

 

“I’ve came to terms with the . . . you know- time travel.  BUT! You can’t undue "the Wrath of Khan."

No Way! . . . I mean, it’s the Wrath of Kahn!!” 

 

HA!

 

Well said.

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

Game,

 

Dodgers over the Brewers 7-5.

 

Sweet!

 

84

 

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Game 2

 

DODGER BAG GIVE AWAY NIGHT

 

 

LA Dodger Rookie M. Magill 0-0

 

versus

 

Milwaukee Brewer W. Peralta 1-1

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

I’m late to work again (!)- For no other reason but negligence.

 

The first thing to do is tackle the box full of mayonnaise.  A 32 oz. pan has to be filled for serving. 

Bubble:  The gates will be open soon! 

It’s like I am always in a hurry but the mayo takes time.  Since it’s a fresh box of May-O, it jiggles like

Jell-O.  My spoon can manage the globby consistency without spilling it on the floor or my apron.   

Bubble:  ‘When you rush you over cook’, the Assistant to the Assistant told me the other day. 

 

(Focus)

 

One scoop at a time . . . easy does it. 

 

+++

 

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomato – Onions

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomato – Onions

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomato – Onions

 

+++

 

 Break room table,

 

Ever see “The Simpsons” eat at their dining room table? 

 

 

That is all of us (employees) scarfing down.  I’m eating a BLT sandwich.  The others have a variety of

junk food: Nachos, Doyer Dog, Pretzel, Cold Cut Sandwich, popcorn, etc.   It’s like a pseudo-makeshift

family time.  Stadium employees eat together- elbow to elbow. 

 

Here is the order:  Me, Dodger Vendor, LAPD, Vendor, LAPD, Lady Concession Worker, and Dodger

Security Guard.   The table next to us consists of the Wetzel Pretzel workers (as usual) – elbow to

elbow. 

 

Munch – Munch – Munch

Munch – Munch – Munch

Munch – Munch – Munch

 

+++

 

Time to get my cup of coffee.

 

Passing the Portable Bar, Ronaldo the Union Card Carrying Bartender says to me, “The Rolling

Stones are playing at the Echo Plex tonight!” 

 

Bubble: No way!

 

 “I know the owner so I’m going to try to get in . . .”

 

“No way!!!”

 

“YES!” Go down the street, go check it out!  Their show is a warm-up before they play (at the Staples

Center).  It’s going to be packed: Over flowing the Echo Plex, over flowing the Gold Room- You got

to go! You got to go!”    

 

“I’m definitely going to check it out!”

 

Bubble: AWESOME!!

 

+++

 

I notice that a group of fans seem to be confused where there seats are. 

 

“Good day sir . . . (with a smile) . . . Can I see your ticket please?”

 

I instruct the group to continue to walk down the 1^st base side until they reach isle 22.  That simple.

 

“Thank you very much,” the older gentleman imparts.

 

“Any time . . . (with a smile) . . .”  

 

Bubble: That felt good. 

 

+++

 

The view of the Top Deck is calling me.

 

Strolling through the Reserve Level concourse on my way to the spinal column that is the Stadium

stairway, I notice Roxy the Lucky Charm who is posted up against the wall, next to isle 8.  She

waves hello to me. 

 

“What are you doing,” I ask.

 

“I’m waiting for a pretzel.”

 

“Cool!  I’m going up stairs.”

 

“Where?”

 

“To the Top Deck,” I point to the direction with my eyes.

 

“You’re crazy- don’t fall,” she jokes, “JK”.

 

 

+++

 

Stairs,

 

Bubble: I really don’t like it when some peeps say that I’m on the bandwagon because I cheer for the

Clippers, too.   

 

Top Deck,

 

Here come the people with their new Dodger Bags.

 

 Bubble: Stuff your extra sweater in there.  Your bottled water.  Your baby formula.  Dodger

program.  Digital camera. I pad.  Whatever you got people- just know that those zippers are cheap

and break easily, unfortunately. 

 

I see a lady Dodger security guard with her college (history) book tucked in hand, her other is holding a

bag with new Dodger merchandise. 

 

Nice!  Smart aannnd stylish .  .  .

 

(The view sure is nice from the Top Deck)

 

+++

 

Back in the Stand,

 

(Wash my hands in hot-hot water)

Not a second passes when suddenly Boss opens up a can of whoop ass- in my face.

 

“Why don’t you listen!”

 

Bubble: Huh?

 

“You didn’t (mark the) date (on) the mayonnaise!”

 

“The Green Team (aka the Stadium health inspectors) dinged us for that . . . “

 

“So, what does that mean?” I ask. 

(Hot water still running)

 

“Now our (Stand) score went down!”  

 

Bubble: Yikes!

 

“You ruined it for everyone!”

 

Bubble: Shock and horror.

 

(There’s an eerie silence)

 

A Supervisors is standing nearby listening to the whole thing.

 

(Dry my hands)

 

I do the walk of shame to the burger line.

 

(Awkward silence)

 

The Fry Guy whispers, “You can stop bending over, now.”

 

Good point.

 

 

+++

 

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomato – Onions

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomato – Onions

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomato – Onions

 

 

J.C. the Fry Guy asks, “Have you ever had a banana dipped in mustard?”

 

We go “EWWWW . . .”

 

“Gross!”

 

“Nope.”

 

“How about a pickle dipped in peanut butter?”

 

“EWWWW . . .”

 

“No way!”

 

“Na-ah.”

 

“It’s the best !” he claims and then dumps a basket full of hot fries in the warmer.

 

+++

 

“Tommy, I took a drink out of your cup,” Hamburger Helper tells our Broiler handler.

 

“You what!” he exclaims.

 

+++

 

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomatos – Onions

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomatos – Onions

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomatos – Onions

 

+++

 

5th inning 

 

The burger and fries rush has been tamed.

 

Jazz the Assistant to the Assistant is looking at the 2013 Dodger schedule that is taped to the

walk-in freezer.  Her finger is playing hop-scotch on specific days of the months of summer.  “I’m going

to Tijuana here, Vegas here, Vegas here, and El Salvador HERE!”   

 

+++

 

Throughout the game, there is an obvious rift between me and the Boss.

She has a question for me at some point, for what, I don’t know.

 

“I’m not talking to you,” I tell her.  I’m still sore.

 

“You have to- we are working (together).”

 

“Fine.  Just work, stuff.”

 

Next, she tells me what to do- and I do it.

 

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

Game,

 

Rookie Dodger pitcher Magill has a decent showing but middle reliever pitcher Guerrier can’t stave off

the Brewer bats.

 

Brewers over the Dodgers 6-4.

 

 

+++

 

Bubble: Good call Ronaldo

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

 Game 3

 

 

KIDS BATTING HELMET

GIVE AWAY DAY

 

 

 

 

+++

 

Dodger ace Clayton Kershaw (2-2)

 

versus

 

Milwaukee Brewer k. Lohse (1-1)

 

 

 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

  

Employee Parking Lot,

 

“Hey! There’s Ronnie!” I spy him by his car readying himself. 

 

It has been a while since I’ve seen him.

 

My buddy Damian who works at the Pizza Stand on the Field Level told me that our friend Ronald

Nelson (the Dodger Vendor Extraordinaire) became ill during a game last home stand.  The medics

had to attend to him.  They probably wanted to make sure his blood-sugar levels were stable.  My point

being, Ronald hasn’t been around since.  Until, today- he’s back!

 

 

 

+++

 

Earlier, I stopped by La Espiga Bakery for coffee and some goodies.  So, I am loaded with tamales for

this morning’s breakfast.  10 green chili and cheese tamales with an extra spinach tamale that I was

given for free.  I’m 30 minutes late for work because I had to wash my work clothes this morning. 

Hopefully these tamales will help me out with some forgiveness.   

 

 

Walk into the stand, nonchalant.

 

I plug in the radio, nonchalant. 

 

Set the dial to the Beat 92.3:

 

George Clinton sings,

“Why must I feel like that?

Why must I chase the cat?

Nuthin’ but the dog in me

 

+++

 

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomatoes – Onions

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomatoes – Onions

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomatoes – Onions

 

+++

 

Smokey Robinson is crooning,

 

I’m crryying . . .

“Ooooooooo baby, baby!

Ooooooooooooo baaaby baaabbby!”

 

The heavy set cook from the Stadium pantry has stopped by for a visit.  Most of the time, this dude

brings fresh fruit to share with my Boss.   He is sporting a USC Trojan hat to complement his white

“chef” attire.  I think the long paper hat is cooler but I’m just a biased UCLA fan anyway.   This guy is

the real deal.  I can tell because he has a rolled up copy of the Los Angeles Times “Saturday”

section, with all of the cool articles on the new LA restaurants and recipes, sticking out of his carrying

bag.  I’m not trying to listen but he and Boss Lady are busy chatting it up about relationships.  (Bosses

favorite topic)    

 

“Will you be my boyfriend?” she asks him. 

 

“Only for tonight,” he replies as he sharpens the blade of one large knife with another. 

 

+++

 

Al Green cries out,

“I’m so tired of being alone

I’m so tired of on-my-own

Won’t you help me girl

Just as soon as you caaaan?

 

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

On my break,

 

It seems that every Little League Team from Los Angeles proper  is here today. 

 

 

 Reserve Level Ban(y)o entrance stencils,

 

+++

 

I feel like checking out the Top Deck for a sec.  But not before I say hello to my devout Usher friend

Robert. 

 

He might be reading his pocket sized "Bible". 

 

Sure enough, he is.

 

 

“What book are you reading?”

 

“The Bible.”

 

“I mean, what book of the Bible are you reading?”

 

“Oh . . . I’m reading James.

 

“Actually, I started memorizing a Psalm a day- today is the 23^rd so I’ll read Psalm 23.

 

“The whole Psalm?”

 

“I memorize the things- so, I say ‘Well- the Lord gives me these promises, so I’ll stand on these

promises.

 

“You’ll have various trial (in your life)- I’ve had various suffering- I’ve been through hell and back- I’m

amazed that I’m still alive. . . (The Lord) has taken me through 4 heart attacks in one day- I’ve seen the

light . . . the nurse told me ‘Robert, I have never seen someone survive what you have gone through’

and here I am now, talking with you.

 

“Thank you so much for talking to me,” I tell him.

 

At the Top Deck,

 

 

 

 

Top Deck "Ban(y)o"  stencils:

 

+++

 

I see,

 

Two women are sporting Baltimore Oriel T-shirts with a large print of the birds face on their chest.  I’m

instantly amused.  Are they just moms with kids on a Oriel little league team?  I need to know.

 

“Is that for real?” I asked indiscriminately.

 

“Yeah, it’s all about Cal Ripken,” she affirms with a little bit of sass.

 

“Awesome!”

 

There is another fellow with a #47 Jessie Orozco jersey. 

 

Very rare . .. very cool.

 

I think a Carl Ripken jersey is more common, even here.

 

+++

 

 

 

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

The 1st Viva Los Dodgers Concert event is going on right now.

 

Meanwhile,

 

On the baseball field the kids are walking the entire baseball field.    

 

 

 +++

 

 The Stadium is packed.

 

 

 

On the Burger line,

 

Maribel warns, “Get ready for ‘plain burger with cheese.” 

 

It’s what all of the kids ask for . . .

 

A little leaguer in Pirate uniform: “Can I have a plain burger with cheese, please?”

(Coming up!)

 

A little Blue Jay: “Plain burger please.”

 

A little Cardinal: “Plain cheese, please.”

 

A little Philly: “One plain cheese burger with ketchup, please.”

 

A little Met:  “Can I have a plain hamburger?”

 

A little Padre: “Burger- plain, please.”

 

A little Angel: “Can I have a burger with no lettuce, no tomato, no pickles, nothing on it- just plain?”

 

===

 

(With the quickness)

 

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomato – Onions

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomato – Onions

Pickles – Lettuce – Tomato – Onions 

 

+++

 

Jazzy is counting pickles per bread bun:       

 

1-2-3

1-2-3

1-2-3

1-2-3

 

+++

 

“Have you ever eaten a “Crabby Patty” I ask Maggie the Hamburger Helper

 

“You mean the one from Sponge Bob?”

 

“Yes”

 

“No, but I would love to taste one.”

 

 

+++

 

“Stop touching my tongs!”

 

+++

 

Maribel tells me, “I asked (Jazzy and Maggie) to name Dodger players . . . they could only name two: 

Kershaw and Matt Kemp- and they barely named MK!” 

 

Maribel and I simultaneously:   HA!

 

Maggie contests, “No!  I named 8 of them: 1^st base. 2^nd base, 3^rd base . . .

 

Suddenly the Stadium erupts in applause . . . .

 

Carl Crawford has smashed his second homer of the game.

 

Dodgers scored 2 runs?  YES!

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

Da' Game,

 

Kershaw shuts-out the Brewers 2-0.

 

Kershaw retires 18 consecutive batters and K’s 12 batters.

 

And Kershaw gets weak run support once again.

 

Go Dodgers!

 

 

  +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

I case you were wondering what was behind the Dodger  batting helmet in the picture above- its a  

GIANT Macaronni , check it.

 

  

 

84 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Women Rule: Hello Kitty Blanket Night 13'

 

 

 

 

 

 

This occasion was once thought of as Hell-No Kitty Night because of the monstrous

crowds.

 

Anyway.

 

Walking past the portable bar near isle 10.

 

 

 

 

 

The Gates are open.

 

People be packing the Stadium.

  

I don't know why I specifically notice this- but there are (eye)_(eye) glasses everywhere -

 

(eye)_(eye) [eye]_[eye] [eye]_[eye] (eye)_(eye) [eye]_[eye] [eye]_[eye] (eye)_(eye)

 

Bubble: ?

 

“Everyone is wearing glasses!” I express to Ronaldo the Union Card carrying Bartender. 

 

 Agitated he replies, “Because they can’t see.”

 

“I meant sun glasses.”

 

(I'm confused)

 

He returns, “It’s sunny.”

 

“But a whole family?”

 

“Maybe it’s a fashion statement.”

 

"Maybe your right."

 

(A minute passes- people watching)

 

Bubble: Wait a second . . . there might be more people rocking reading glasses than there are

shades.

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

Return to the Burger Stand,

 

Pickles - Lettuce - Tomato - Onions

 Pickles - Lettuce - Tomato - Onions

Pickles - Lettuce - Tomato - Onions

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

Break time,

 

People still be packing the Stadium.  Now, with those Hello Kitty Blankets.

 

Time to get a cup of Joe.

 

Zipping past the fans I see a guy in a Los Angeles Clipper ball cap.

 

Another fellow sporting a Los Angeles Laker's -T. 

 

Bubble: It's play-off time in the NBA.

 

“Hey Tony!"  Geno from the Wetzel Pretzel Stand asks me "Where you going?”

 

“To the break room, of course.”

 

Bubble: If only I can squeeze by all of these four eyed fans.

 

At the moment, Roxy the Lucky Charm is working bar-back at the portable cantina with Ronaldo

and Gladice.  Once again she takes a moment to make sure I put on "a little bit” of facial cream

on my wrinkles.  What a sweet person she is.  Nobody has ever cared about my skin before.  Only

a true esthetic's would. 

 

 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

The devout Cats are everywhere tonight! 

  

Hello Kitty Barrettes on Lady with the long Blondie hair.

 

A Hello Kitty Daughter on dad’s shoulders.

 

More Hello Kitty daughter’s on Dad’s shoulders.

 

 +++

 

"What are we going to do?" the little girl ask her father.

 

(Hand-in-hand)

 

 Father answers to his little darling,“What we’re going to do is go find our seats.”

  

+++

 

A Mother tries to understand where her family sits as she reads her tickets.  Her husband with a

palm sized tattoo image of Jesus Christ on his neck and web tattoos covering his elbows waits

patiently with their son and daughter at his side.  Bubble: Now that is what I call a happy family.

 

 +++

 

 Walking,  I notice . . .

 

Lots of women with powdered faces!

 

Bubble: Hello Kitty faces?

 

Three sisters, side by side; three sets of prescription glasses- thick frames.

 

Mom with two little girls sporting Hello Kitty capes- Super Kitty Cats?

 

Nice.

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

8:PM

 

3rd inning, Padres over the Dodgers 3-1, so far . . .

 

The early burger rush is done. 

 

My co-worker and part-time hamburger helper in crime, Maribel, is running the cashier booth

outside the Burger Stand.  I can hardly see the top of her visor- like she is sitting in a bucket seat

of a VW buggy.  Better get in a few words with home-girl.

 

"It's packed."

 

"It's packed because its packed with chicks," she adds.

 

Suddenly, a woman approaches me and asks where the Veggie Dodger Dogs are sold. 

 

Bubble: Yuk!

 

I point her toward the Wetzel Pretzel stand.

 

Maribel says to me, "Everyone is wearing Hello Kitty stuff- purses, wallets, they have Hello Kitty credit

cards!"  I tell her that there are lots of Ladies with powdered faces (there's two of them now!) 

 

"That's because of Hello Kitty," she insists. 

 

"Really?" I question.

 

 "Some of the glasses are not even prescription- (they) just wear them for style."

 

We watch as scores and scores of women in groups of 2's and 3's case the concourse.  There is

something about these peeps.  I can tell they are intelligent, very. These ladies are pros.  

Unquestionably stable women.  Strong women. 

 

Bubble: 

Girl Power.

 

I see a woman that is super tatted up- Hello Kitty aficionado too.

 

 Bubble: Wait a minute . . . these glasses are not just a style- it's a lifestyle.  These ladies

are teachers, students, artists, social workers, attorneys, domestic engineers, retail clerks, they are

best friends- they are baaad asses!

 

+++ 

 

A few of the Dodgers corporate suits pass by with their scrutinizing eyes and raised brows.  They think

to themselves: "Where are the long concession lines?" 

 

 +++

 

Game,

 

While watching the girls in glasses Maribel said, "I can't believe we are losing to the suckiest team."

 

 ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

Game,

 

Dodgers Lose, again.

 

  {eye}_{eye}

 

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

The one on the right used to wear glasses but she lost them.

 

 My own girl power.

 

 

 

Don't - Play - Angry

 

 

 

Dodger Chris Capuano 0-0

 

vs.

 

Padre Jason Marquis 0-1

 

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

 I'm pissed off . . . .

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Did you watch this happen?

 

I did.

 

Did it make you gnash you teeth?

 

Me too.

 

Did your fists clench? 

 

Mine did too.

 

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

But then I changed my mind,

 

 

 

 "Peace"

 

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

 

At the Burger Stand,

 

Boss Lady tells me, "I would go out with you . . . but you need to take a shower, wash your

clothes, and brush your teeth because you smell." 

 

Bubble: Wow, otherwise I'm the whole package, huh?

 

 

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onions

 

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onions

 

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onions

 

 

Bubble: I'm butt hurt- She says I smell . . . 

 

 

(Sniff-Sniff)

 

 

Bubble: No I don't?

 

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onions

 

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onions

 

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onions

 

 

Bossy Lady may be right about brushing my teeth before coming to work, but I take a shower

everyday.  

 

"Yeah right!!!" She contests.  

 

I reply, "You are just jealous that I’ve been successfully single for over 5 years.  

 

(Got you!)

 

"HA!!! . . . That is the saddest part" she says to me in my face.

 

 Bubble: Don't take any offense.

 

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

   Burgertime,

 

 Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onions

 

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onions

 

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onions

 

 (Sticks and Stones . . .)

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

 In the Breakroom,

 

   Little Maria from the Wetzel Pretzel Stand taught me everything I know on the Burgerline.  I

even followed her daughter to this place and got hired. 

 

(I wanted a second date that I never got)

 

16 seasons later, I make Maria Turkey Burgers just like she wants. ("No onions!")

 

 

Life is a trip.

 

 

Anyway,  Maria has a request.  Waving her hand to me she asks, "Tony, remember when you

told me not to bring up politics in the work place?- well write down my politics, please!"   

 

I write: Maria is a hard leftist politica (period).

 

I repeat what I jotted down to her.

 

"Yes, I listen to KPFK," she claims with pride.

 

Meanwhile, her fellow Pretzel workers are ignoring our discussion. 

 

Bubble: She must have already alienated them, earlier.

 

"Will you write this down on a piece of paper so I don't forget?" she says playfully.

 

Bubble: Of course . . . 

 

I rip out the piece of paper and hand it to her.  

 

 The rest of the Pretzel Workers laugh.

 

 

 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

Still in the breakroom,

 

 Sitting on the right to me, eating icecream is another legendary Dodger Vendor, his name

tag reads Dave Rafel. 

 

I remeber that he usually wears an old Olympic Auditorium jacket- but not today. 

 

“Do you work here on the Reserve Level?” I ask because I do not recall Dave hanging with

the homies in break room, ever. 

 

“Suuuure, I work Reserve,” Dave affirms.

 

“I started here in 1962.” 

 

“Where is your Olympic Auditorium jacket at?” I ask.  Dave looks at me strangely, like I

know some stuff about him but not even his name.  I introduce myself to break the ice. 

 

“I used to make (good) money selling beer (at the Olympic)”

 

“I knew Ricky Starr.”

 

“Do you know Ricky Starr?” he asks me.

 

My eyes roll back to my brains to search for a thought of Ricky Starr but to no avail. 

 

“Yeah, he was a wrestler, only 210 pounds- a real good guy.”

 

(Check who R.S. is on my Droid) 

 

Bubble:  Too violent . . .

 

Dave continues, “In fact, I used to work for a guy named Don Gotto back at the Coliseum.  He

was an asshole.  He gave good sections and took money from the vendors.  Yea, he was and

asshole and they fired his ass.” 

 

Bubble: Payback 

 

Dave is a feisty fellow which is pretty cool. 

 

Bubble:  Dave  should really let go of his grudge against that guy Gotto- It's been over 50 years

since that happened.  The Dodgers have not "officially" played at the Coliseum since then, jeez!

 

On the tiny television monitor there are reports of a bombing at the Boston Marathon.  News

reporter Liz Habib says there are “no plans” for extra security at Dodger Stadium for tonight’s

game.  This is striking news.  I take it we must be vigilant. 

 

Bubble: No Fear

 

I hear some action going on outside.

 

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

Breakroom perch,

 

 

 Who is this?

 

The Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation

 

 

According to their website: 

 

"The Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation is a non-profit, non-governmental, humanitarian organization

in Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UN

ECOSOC).  The foundation focuses on four major missions: charity, medicine, education, and

humanistic culture. The foundation also engages in international disaster relief, bone marrow

donation, community volunteerism, and environmental protection. “Tzu Chi” means “compassion

and relief.  Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation was established in 1966 in Hualien by Venerable Dharma

Master Cheng Yen.  (Cool)

 

Dharma Master Cheng Yen believes that the lack of altruistic love for others has been the root of

many problems in this world, but with sustained kindness, mercy and giving, harmony and peace

can be achieved. Thus, the foundation’s guiding principle is to “help the poor and educate the rich”

– to give material aid to the needy and inspire love and humanity in both givers and receivers.

 

 

 Tzu Chi in full effect

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Very impressive!

 

 Bubble: Don't play angry.

 

Back to the Burger line.

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

2nd inning,

 

 

Walking up the Stadium stairs to get a water bottle from the warehouse, I release a huge belch.

 

Buuuuuuuurb!

 

"Excuse me."

 

An older Usher Gentleman reading his tiny Bible at the entrance to the warehouse says,

 

"Oh, thats o.k.- it was the left-overs."

 

Ha!

 

 

 

 

He continues to read on . . . .

 

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

In the Burger Stand,

 

My co-worker Jazzy and I are about to throw down a few hundred burgers on on the burger-line. 

She places her hands on the silver counter.  Looks at me very seriously.  "When I get married I am

not going to work here anymore.  I'm going to have a baby and (my husband) is going to take me

away from here . . . you won't ever see me again . . . when I get married. "  She then proceeds to

change her gloves another time.   She looks at me again, her eye brows rise and then her eyes hint

toward the silver counter as if we should get started.

 

This is the most beautiful thing I've ever heard!

 

 

                                                                    Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onions

 

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onions

 

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onions

 

 

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

The Radio is tuned to 95. 3 La Raza.   

 

A song ("Bidi Bidi Bom Bom") by late Selina is playing . . .

 

the beat is infectious.

 

My left foot moves.

 

The right one taps.

 

I start to lose control of my body!!!

 

Jazzy can't get out of my path. 

 

Bidi bidi bom bom

Bidi bidi bom bom

Bidi bidi bidi bidi bidi bom bom

Bidi bidi bidi bidi bidi bom bom

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

Game,

 

Matt Kemp strikes out (real ugly) twice.

 

Los Padres defeat Los Dodgers, 6-3.

 

 

 

 

After the game,

 

 

Bubble: 

 

I know some people who were at the race in Boston. 

 

Some are Wild Mountain Runners from Griffith Park.  

 

I hope they are doing o.k.

 

 

 84

Honoring the Great #42

 

 

 Jackie Robinson Day

April 15th, 2013

 

 

Dodger Chad Billingsley  0-0

 

vs.

 

Padre Eric Stultz       0-1

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

Jackie Robinson ceremony with Rachel Robinson and others.

 

 (courtesy of StadiumBound, thank you)

 

Next,

 

The National Anthem is performed by Magic Johnson's home church, the West Angels Choir.

 

  

 (Excellent!)

 

Ceremonial 1st pitch belongs to Harrison Ford.

 

 

 

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar starts the game off . . .

 

 (StadiumBound)

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

Everyone who lives in Echo Park viewed these nice posters near the bus stops.

 

 (Echo Park and  Blvd)

 

 

 

 

 

(isle 8, Dodger Stadium) 

 

Can't wait to see the film. 

 

Thank you Jackie!

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

The game,

 

Padres over the Dodgers, 6-3

 

84

 

 

 

 

Dodgers vs Russell Martin and the Pittsburgh Pirates

 

 Game 1 

 

 

Dodger pitcher Zach Greinke’s Stadium debut

 

Vs.

 

Pittsburgh Pirate pitcher J. Lopez 

 

  

I always marvel at the Pittsburg Pirate fans.  They are truly dedicated.  Like the Chicago Cubbie fans,

the Pirates go WAAAAY!! back farther than most ball clubs, historically.  It really is no

wonder that fans in Black and Yellow have a strong showing for tonight’s game.  Baseball is a deeply

ingrained tradition after all and Pittsburgh doesn’t buckle.  Not with a franchise that has roots in

the early 1800’s. 

 

The Pirate organization is not, however, the savviest ball club. (Like the Dodgers are) But seriously,

who else would start Rod Barajas after the Dodgers let him go but Pittsburgh?  I mean Rod is a

great guy and was a solid leader on the field but he had the worst plate appearances that I have ever

seen next to Juan Uribe.  (Always swinging for the fences).  No offense to our hometown hero

Barajas.

 

This season, the Pirates got a bargain  and signed former Dodger catcher Russell Martin. 

 

Bubble:  No matter if Russell suites up in Black and Yellow every game; even, if he likes that

dumb song by Wiz Khalifa and even (Gulp!) though he is a frick’n former NY Yankee- here at

the Ravine- We still love Russell Martin.

 

 

  

Its 5:55pm. 

 

I just received the protective cream for my wrinkles because Roxy the Lucky Charm from

Ronaldo’s portable bar came through with her promise.  “Put it on in the morning every day” she

instructs me.  I promise her I would but I know I will forget. 

 

Back to the Burger Stand to handle to my business:

 

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onion

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onion

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onion

 

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

6:35 pm

 

Pre-game Introductions

 

Today’s Los AngelesDodger batting line-up:

 

#25 Carl Crawford

 

#14 Mark Ellis

 

#27 Matt Kemp

 

#23 Adrian Gonzalez

 

#47 Luis Cruz

 

#16Andre Ethier

 

#17 A.J. Ellis

 

#28 Justin Sellers

 

And #21pitcher Zach Greinke

 

It's the Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Russell Martin!

 

The Dodger Jumbo Tron is presenting the 2013 Pittsburgh Pirates and their current starting

catcher #55 Russell Martin.  It says that he hasn’t returned to the Stadium since he left back on

August 3, 2010.

 

I remember that fateful day.  Russell got injured sliding into home plate so his season was cut

short.  The Dodgers wouldn’t sign him due to the question of his injury so the organization settled

with L.A. local Rod Barajas the following season.  (I'm repeating myself) This decision still gets me

angry because, everyone- and I mean, everyone! - Still-loves-Russell-Martin, here at Dodger

Stadium.  (Did I mention this already?) Plus, back then, I got into a super argument on the radio

with the KABC Dodger Talk hosts during the post-game show over the fact that Barajas should be

benched over A.J. Ellis but those guys adamantly insisted that Ellis is not an “everyday” type of

catcher.  Dummies.

 

 

 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

The birds in the Stadium are daredevils, diving from the Top Deck downward and just over the

heads of the people sitting in the Field Level and then swooping up again to the bottom lip of the

Reserve section.   The way they maneuver in the air always gets me to double take glimpse- truly

fantastic.

 

The attendance is weak this evening.

 

The National Anthem is performed by Lee Dewzye.  Each lyric is presented on the LCD screen

below the Dodger Diamond Vision Jumbo Tron as pianists Nancy Bea’s fingers dance on the keys. 

The very few fans in attendance enjoy the performance very much.

 

A few minutes later the Stadium dj samples the beginning of The Rolling Stones tune “Give Me

Shelter” to open the game.  Bubble:  Dope!  This song always gets me pumped!

 

 

 

 (Sweet vocal)

 

Next, the Los Angeles Dodgers take the field.

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

Top of the 2nd inning,

 

The radio station 106.7  KROQ is blasting “Santa Monica” by the local band Everclear while our

resident rookie worker Andre is lip/syncing-partially voicing every word.  His brother Marco has

also joined us in the work place this evening.  Marco sings all of the R & B stuff and raps the flows to

the beats that play on Power 106.  

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onion

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onion

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onion

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

I’m talking to Tommy about Russell Martin who is about to take the plate.

 

 “Martin is still batting .000, after 11 at-bats,” I tell him.

 

Tommy had no idea that the former Dodger was competing against us.

 

“NO WAY!”

 

Tommy tells me, “That’s cool, let him rip- I’ll be alright with that.” 

 

Of course, only with a good Dodger lead. 

 

“I love Russell Martin,” he confirms. 

 

(Right!)

 

Sure enough, Russell Martin takes the plate- same batting stance.  On the second pitch, he hits a

dribbler to Dodger short stop Justin Sellers (I think), Sellers scoops it up and throws out Russell

1st.  Now he is 0 for 12 for the season. 

 

Bubble:  It’s probably best he goes hitless for the next two games as well. 

 

  

Bottom of the 2nd,

 

 Dodger right fielder Andre Ethier smashes a solo homer over the wall and into the Right Field

Pavilion! 

 

The Dodger homerun tune blasts out of the Stadium Ghetto Blasters. 

 

The sound of Dodger offense appeases the entire Stadium.

 

(SWEET!)

 

 

 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

  

I take a break to use the restroom when I find myself trailing a father and his two kid sons that are

heading to the same place. 

 

 

 

“This is exciting,” the boy tells his dad.

 

Evidently the boy knows about the renovated restrooms.

 

“Exciting?” the father questions.

 

Evidently the father doesn’t have a clue.

 

When they walk in, they learn that restroom walls are painted white.  There is no longer the urinal

trough that everyone lined up along to go #1.  They are replaced by environmentally friendly

ceramic whizzers.  The stalls are also spacious and much more user friendly.

 

“Hey, they gave us real restrooms” the father concedes.  So, he walks into the one of the available

thrones and says out loud, “Well, I’m gonna take a (McCourt).” 

 

Bubble: Gross!

 

 I really didn’t want to have to hear that. 

 

 (I wouldn't make this up)

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

(Hot-hot-water and soap)

 

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onion

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onion

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onion

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

6th inning,

 

Grienke is holding his own. 

 

He has a no nonsense attitude.

 

I like his location.

 

A real competitor.

 

I like what I see.

 

 

Dodger Skipper Mattingly pulls Greinke with one out in the 6th (I think) and the fans provide our

newest All Star with a standing ovation.

 

 

(ap.)

 

 

There is nothing like consumer satisfaction!

 

Greinke earns his 1^st win in Dodger Blue.

 

Dodger closer Brandon League get his 1^st save of the season.

 

 Los Angeles wins: Dodgers - 3, Pirates - 0

 

We are back at .500.

 

Always a Dodger: Russell Martin remains hitless for the season. 

 

 crzblue.com

 

Go Dodgers!

 

 

84

 

 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Dodgers vs. Russell Martin- Game 2

 

 

Clayton Kershaw 1-0 (0.00)

 

Contra

 

Pirate A.J. Burnett 0-1

 

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

(Computers are down)

 

 

I'm standing with the nice guy who took this photo at the very end of the line. 

The brother Damian is smoking way off to the left.

Would you believe that there is one person who cut to the front? 

I used to have a small crush on her!

 

After an 30 minute wait to check-in I am close enough to hear the public service announcements

from the small speakers outside the gates.  Its Vin Scully doing the talking.  The soft gruff of his

voice tells would-be patrons to refrain from bringing banned items such as glass bottles,

bag/purses (no larger than 18’ by 18’), and alcohol, among other thing into the Stadium.   At least

his voice is taming the patience that I am losing.  This is painful.

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

At the Portable Bar,

 

 “It’s gonna be a quick game, Kershaw is pitching tonight,” Ronaldo the Union Card carrying

bartender semi hollars out to me.

  

Bubble: Cool!

 

 

Roxy, the Lucky Charm is also working behind the bar.

 

 

“Did you put on your cream?” she asks.

 

 

“No, I wasn’t in the sun,” I lie.

 

 

“Did the sun hit your face when you were in your car?”

 

 

 “Yes.”

 

 

“Then you were in the sun!” Roxy says with emphasis on sun.

 

 

“Ok, I’ll put it on tomorrow.”

 

She is not convinced. But I insist. I almost pinkie swear, so Roxy would be certain of my intent

to take care of my skin and that I would remember to use the protective facial cream tomorrow. 

I’m 37 years old.for goodness sakes.  The future of my aging semi-handsome face depends on it. 

(Cripes!)

 

 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

 On my break,

 

 The usher tells me there are only 38,000 in the Stadium tonight. 

 

 “ONLY!”

 

 I see three guys representing Mexican Baseball League jerseys: Los Mineros, Los Cerveceros,

y Los Tomateros.  They look tuff so I stay clear of them.  Personally, I’m a fan of Los

Lionesbased out of Merida City, Yucatan- Mexico.  I went to one of their games almost 13 years

ago.  And I got in for free too. 

 

Preparing a cup of coffee with powdered cream and a whole lot of sugar.  There is a mother and her

tiny daughter (in Ethier t-shirt) approach ing LAPD personel.  The same Dodger Policeman

who sometimes asks to keep his lunch in our employee refrigerator back in the Burger Stand.  “She

is very close to the police officer at her school” the lady expresses to him.  This is evident in the

girl’s eyes.  The Dodger Policeman refers to her as “Sweety” and reaches all the way down  (the guy

is super tall) to give her a hug.  It’s a very sweet moment because her mother is very appreciative. 

The little girl then spins around, reachers for Moms hand and leads her in the direction of the

playground area. (Just like that)

 

Once again, the Pirate fans are here to represent.  There is definitely a presence of BLACK and

YELLOW in the house.  Its neat to see the proud opposition.  Speaking of which-Where are the

Clemente jerseys at?   I definitely missed the Clemente jersey fan somewhere on this level. 

 

Bubble: Why is it that the Stadium dj continues to keep playing Rhianna songs during batting

practice?  WTH! -  WTF! - WTH! Seriously. 

 

One of the Dodger ushers knows all the lyrics to the Rhianna jam playing right now-

she unabashedly lip syncs .   

 

I’m just beginning to notice that there is a digital screen in almost every place you look around the

ball bark. 

 

(pic from this years Freeway Series) 

 

The National Anthem is performed by Jenna Ushkowitz. 

 

 

Before I return to the Burger Line there is enough time to chat with my tiny Lady Usher friend

(standing 4’ 11”) who works the door to the Stadium stairs.  She is a SOLID worker.  Nobody with

out a permissible ticket shall enter the stair way unless she says so.  I have to mention our former

catcher.

 

“I like Russell Martin no matter what team he is on, “She claims.

 

 I ask her if she will be upset if he goes hitless in tonight’s game. 

 

 “No.” 

 

The way she answered made me flinch a bit.

 

 

 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onion

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onion

Pickles - lettuce - tomato - onion

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

6th inning,

 

Dodger ace, Clayton Kershaw is cruising through the game- Dodgers are up 1-0 and there is no

sign of any offense. 

 

Carl Crawford has turned out to the Dodger haymaker so far. 

 

Thank goodness . . . 

 

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 A police officer in the break room asks his counter part in uniform, “Did you see Kershaw crush

that ball Opening Day?” 

 

“Yup.”

 

Co-incidentally I am also sharing a 10 minute break with the tuff (4’ 11”) Lady Usher I had

mentioned before.

 

The Dodger run support, so far, leaves a terrible taste in my mouth.   Entering the door is a Vendor

who proceeds to open up a new box of popcorn he has stashed on a shelf.  The hommie begins to

stuff individual bags of OG Kettle Corn, Jalapeno Cheddar flavored KC, and Zebra Chocolate KC.   

Bubble: Luckily Dodger fans have options for their palate.    

 

“I have to work (the grave yard) shift at my other job,” 4’11” Usher tells me.

 

“And you are working tomorrows day game,” I question.  

 

“Yes, I am,” she nods.

 

Wow. Indeed she is tuff as nails. 

 

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

Come 8th inning,

 

It’s time for clean up.  Rookie workers and brothers Andres and Marcos who have been singing to

the radio the last two games here in the Burger Stand help out with the routine closing duties.  On

the radio Eazy E’s eternal song “Boyz in da Hood” covered by the band Dynamite Hack is

playing and I join in with the bros halfway through the song. 

 

(CHORUS) '

Cause the boys in the hood are always hard

you come talkin' that trash, we'll pull ya car

knowin' nutin' in life but to be legit

don't quote me boy 'cause I ain't said shit

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

The game,

 

Clayton Kershaw limits Russell Martin to a base-on-ball and keeps him hitless for 2013.

 

Brandon League earns save #2.

 

Dodgers win 1-0. 

 

Second shut-out in a row- feels so good.

 

The Dodger offense- not so much.

 

Go Dodgers.

 

 

84

 

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Game 3 against Russell Martin's Pittsburgh Pirates

 

Matt Kemp Kids Jersey Day

 

 

A Lady Dodger Security guard with sweet braids claimed last night: "The (Matt Kemp) jerseys are

for kids only but their parents want one- they will argue and argue and argue but the jerseys are not

for them."  She said this with so much attitude I even felt guilty. 

 

Dodger Hyun-Jin Ryu  0-1

 

vs

 

Pirate Jeff Locke 0-0

 

52,000 in attendance.  

 

18,000 on the Reserve Level.

 

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

Sunday morning.

 

92.3 FM the Beat sets the tone.

The 1979 song "Bounce, Rock, Skate, Roll" by Vaughan Mason & Crew.

The DJ transitions to Bobby Brown’s 1988 jam “Don’t be Cruel.”

 

The chatter in the Burger Stand is:

 

Fry Guy: “That’s what I’m trying to say . . .”

Hamburger Helper: “That’s what he said . . .”

Boss Lady: “I said, if your nose doesn’t run do your feet smell?”  HA!

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

Pickle – Lettuce – Tomatoes – Onions

Pickle – Lettuce – Tomatoes – Onions

Pickle – Lettuce – Tomatoes – Onions

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

DJ spins:

 

I love it when we’re “Cruising” together by Smokey Robinson and the Miracles.

 

“Sexual Healing” by Marvin Gaye.

 

“Always and Forever” by Heat Wave.

 

 

The next few songs give me flashbacks of 10^th high school dances:

 

The New Jack Swing jam “I Want Her” by Keith Sweat.

 

"Every Body Dance Now" by C & C Music Factory.

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

The Sun is beginning to peep or of the layer of white in the sky.

 

Lakers are hosting the Clipper in the final show down between LA’s sons.

 

Bubble: Didn’t Clipper point guard Chris Paul throw a 1^st pitch earlier this year?

 

niketalk.com

(He did- Nice!)

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

Break time,

 

Walking through the Reserve Level concourse, I spot Mr. Sanchez the Dodger Vendor- Fist

pump (POW!)

 

I spy a group representing Lennon Little League.

 

A woman is sporting a pink “I love Spring Training Dodgers 2012” t-shirt.

 

Time to head up stairs, check out the Top Deck and see the new Dodger gift store set up.

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 (Back to Work: 18,000 are all up in our face)

  

Pickle – Lettuce – Tomatoes – Onions

Pickle – Lettuce – Tomatoes – Onions

Pickle – Lettuce – Tomatoes – Onions

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

The game,

 

Los Angeles Short Stop Justin Sellers' homerun in the 1st inning is great.

 

Dodger 1st baseman Adrian Gonzalez's 4 RBIs are exactly what the doctor ordered.

 

A series sweep against Russell Martin is bitter sweet.  Maybe the Pirate coach should have played

him in todays game if they wanted a fighting chance. 

 

(Anyway)

 

Ryu earns his 1st win as a Dodger, 6-2 score.

 

Go Dodgers!

 

84

  

next up- Los Padres de San Diego.



Dodger Blue Hoodie Sueter Day 2013

 

 Dodgers Josh Beckett

Vs.

Giant’s Tim Lincecum

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

Dodgers have 1 win- 1 loss against the World Champion Giants. 

 

(That word hurts: Champions) 

 

 

 

It’s a good thing that the latest Stadium renovations and designs like the Awesome new LCD Dodger

Diamond Vision and the updated Stadium ghetto blasters help (us) forget this reality.  Even closer to

home, in the Stand, we can turn our attention to the small positive things in life like celebrating

birthdays.  This time we eat cake for fellow employee and self-proclaimed comic book nerd and proud

Vegan- Tommy. 

 

The Ladies of the Stand always have something up their collective sleeves.  They started conspiring

yesterday.  Bossy Lady was trying to be “low-key” by getting Tommy to tell her the type of cake that he

(being a vegan), enjoys.  Tom wouldn’t exactly provide a straight answer, except that the cake couldn’t

have any frosting.  Apparently there is “bone” in frosting.  My Boss, being a tiny bit frustrated at first,

had a game plan already in the works.  Tommy’s BDay was on Opening Day so the Ladies we work

with decided to create a variety of dishes he can enjoy.  Of course, Tom has no idea what’s in store for

him today.

 

Meanwhile,

 

Outside the Stand, the warehouse guy we call “Monster” (because he is so darn tall) is whistling while

he works- driving a small car that is towing six tiny trailers, making pit stops to collect the card board

boxes the we leave outside our Stands during out set up.  Monster’s route is throughout the entire

Reserve Level.  (Whistling)   

 

A rookie in our Burger Stand (tall-heavy set kid appropriately named Andre) is singing all of the lyrics

to a 14 year old song by the Offspring that’s jamming on our Stand radio.  The Ladies of the Stand are

scrabbling around, trying to set up the dishes of food they prepared.  Tommy has stepped out of the

Stand so we all seize the moment.  Hamburger Helper has brought penne pasta, topped with tomato

sauce and meatless sausage (?).   “What’s in the pasta?” I ask “Pork?”  Of course not- “Its meat filler,”

says the Fry Guy.  Someone else prepared thin spaghetti noodle pasta with butter, cilantro, and turkey

bits(?).   "It's meat filler," repeats Fry Guy.  Mari created a corn salad, consisting of diced tomatoes,

onions, Italian dressing.  Boss lady brought pita bread, humus, and a Fruit tart cake. 

 

“It’s the 1^st birthday of the Season, Tone” the Fry Guy tells me. 

 

“These girls, ROCK.”

 

I agree.

 

Once Tommy returns to the Stand everyone crowds the table where the food is.  I turn down the radio. 

He approaches our circle and wonders “What the heck is going on?”  There is an awkward silence.  1-2-

3 we all break in to sing Happy Birthday.  The Birthday kid is confused until we sing out his name. 

At the end of the tune ultimately add, “. . . aaannnnd maannny moooore!” 

 

 

The crew can finally go to their break with their healthy meals.  I get to go back to the burger line and

make me some Double Westerns and Turkey burgers.  I’m the Main Spoon after all, gotta hold down

the fort.  While I’m mixing and matching burger ingredients when the Blonde girl (who speaks perfect

Spanish) from the Wetzel Pretzel Stand come in to request a cheeseburger.  “Did you hear about the

Bees in the Stadium,” she asked me.  I don’t know what Blonde meant so she explains that a Dodger

employee cracked open a bee hive in the Stadium.  Bees are everywhere she says. 

Bubble: If it isn’t one thing- it’s another. 

 

 Break time,

 

I finally get to take a rest.  One dude sitting across from me is complaining that there isn’t enough BBQ

sauce in his West Bacon Cheese burger.  He lifts up the bread, eyeballs the sauce and smacks the bun

back on the patty in disappointment.  The girl next to him tells him to ask for extra next time.  I look

but try not to make eye contact because I made that burger for him.  Little do they know this, I think. 

So, we are all quietly eating our meals when suddnely an angry bee flies in through the door.  The girls

sitting next to the dude that wants more BBQ sauce is eating a deli sandwich that the bee is curious

about.  It closes in on her sandwich once, twice, three times- the girl merely swipes her hand at the little

intruder but to no avail.  The bee keeps coming at her, each time more aggressively.  Finally the guy

next to her stands up and waves the bee outside the door but it reenters right after.  “It’s getting too

close,” the guys says “It has to die!”  I’m totally entertained by what’s going on.  Meanwhile, little Maria,

from Wetzel Pretzel Stand who is sitting at the table behind me screams that the guy, “Leave (the bee)

alone! Don’t kill it! It won’t bite you!” she pleads just as the bee hovers back in the face of the girl with

the sandwich.  So, I grab my trusty little note book and I take a swing at the bee- driving it into the wall

where it falls to the floor.  The guy who wanted to beat the guts out of the bee is grateful.  On the other

hand, little Maria begins to chastise me for “killing” the bee.  Calling me “mean” and stuff.  That’s when I

stand up and moon walk like Michael Jackson, out of the break room. 

 

The National Anthem is a colorful performance by Trevin Hunte.  Great job!

 

People watching:

 

I’m jealous of the dudes with the cute Dodger baseball girlfriends.  They are dressed up in their Dodger

Blues- hat and shirt, long hair, jeans.  Bubble: Where do they come from?  I mentioned this before to

my buddy Damian who works at the pizza stand on the field level and he claims that they are from La

Puente, Hacienda Heights, Montebello.  Anyway.

 

The Stadium is beginning to fill up. 

 

People can hardly squeeze by one another on the concourse. 

 

They all have their hoodie sweaters.     

 

This is a family event:

 

“Hold that grandma” a man calls out to his abuela.

 

There is one young lady rocking the Hello Kitty visor and some sun glasses. 

 

Another fellow in passing says, “Let me take a picture with my kids.” 

 

The new Reserve Level lay out now has a toddler area.  People can now watch their kids while they sip

on their beers during game.  The only thing needed is a television set for the parents to view the action

on the field.  (Mari from the Stand heard on Dodger Talk that this would be addressed) I mentioned this

to Ronald the Union Card carrying Bartender and he doesn’t like this family fun arrangement.  “That is

a bad, bad idea” He says. 

 

So the Stadium is jam packed.  My father (grandpa) brought my girls to the game so they will be rocking

some new dodger swag soon enough.  I got to get back to the hustle on the burger line- if I can squeeze

by all of these Dodger fans, that is.

 

 

 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

The Game,

 

Durante el juego, we work non stop. 

 

All I know is the Dodgers are losing.

 

The Giants sting the Dodgers and win the 1st  series of the season.

 

- At least, we won the Opening Day game.

 

84

   

 

 Dodger Hoodie Swag : )

  

 

 

Hyun-jin Ryu, MLB Debut 13'

 

                                 

    

(latimes.com)

 

Dodger Rookie Jin Ryu Kim

 

versus

 

SF Giant Ryan Volgelsong

 

 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Way before game time.

 

The Ladies of the Stand are off to their break.  I’m left by my lonesome flipping burgers for my

fellow employees once again.  Bubble:  The tastiest things on this prep line are the golden brown

onion rings.  Just dip one of those babies partially in mayo, (turn the ring) then dip it in BBQ

sauce, (turn it again) and dip it in ketchup/Famous sauce- Soooo Goooood!   (Pop!)  Next, the

concession stand workers like me dressed-up in Smurf-Blue jersey uniforms begin to appear with

their appetites.  They look at the menu above the a-la-cart window and search for a couple of items

that strike them.  For the next hour I’ll be stuffing pickles-onion-lettuce-tomato-onion and bacon

and cheese and onion rings between two sesame seed buns-

 

YUMMY!

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

When the back-up arrives, Jazzy the assistant to the assistant sends me on my break.

 

The first thing I do is check-up on my Mom who now works at the Specialty Dogs Stand that serves

an eclectic menu of sausages with special ingredients on a hotdog roll.  I’m sure I mentioned before

that Mom works here too; in fact, the odds are that some one else’s mom or aunt or uncle or even

grandmother works here as well.  Anyway, Mom’s stand was once a soft serve ice cream spot but

with all of the reconfiguring at the Stadium things have changed and sausages are the new

supposed money makers, not vanilla ice cream. 

 

The second thing I do is get a glimpse at the new junk food. 

 

Let’s see what they serve:

Bubble: Holy Guacamole!

 

(Starting from the left- fyi m the Dog on far right might be a Tailgate Dog)

 

The Big Kid Dog served with gooey Mac and Cheese topped with Fritos.

 

The Doyer Dog, has chili, nacho cheese, pico de gallo, and jalapenos.

 

 The Frito Pie Dog contains chili, cheese, and Fritos.

 

 The Heater, topped with buffalo wing sauce, blue cheese and cole slaw. 

 

 And finally,  The Kim Chi Dog served with scurry vegetable and Kin Chi. (Below)

 YUM

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

In the breakroom,

 

I’m studying my wallet sized Dodger calendar for the 2013 season when I hear my friend,

Flamboyant Bobby, of the Wetzel Pretzel Stand begin one of his infamous rants: “(The

Dodgers) have the Korean pitcher, pitch tonight . . . (Munching on his sandwich) . . . you watch,

there won’t be any Korean people here to see him- Only Japanese people come to Dodger Stadium .

. . (Munching)” Bobby continues to say, “You know who I ran into yesterday?  Louie.  You know,

Louie, the fighter, the boxer- he used to work with us in the 1970’s, and then he became a (Dodger)

security guard and then who knows what happened to him.  Anyways, I saw him yesterday and he

has all-white-hair.  He is a smaaallmaaaan, now.”   The people whom Bobby is addressing are

nearly the entire Wetzel Pretzel crew sitting at one table. 

 

“Can you believe that, Bobby exclaims, he has a head full of white hair?”

 

Ronin answers to Bobby’s point, “His wife must drive him crazy!” 

 

Sitting next to Ronin is his buddy old man Xavier who Ronin bakes and butters Pretzels with

almost every game and Xavier adds, “That’s right; his wife must drive him crazy.”

 

“I think his wife still works (at the Stadium),” Ronin claims.

 

“That’s, right- I saw her the other day too,” Bobby goes on. 

 

Not another second goes by when I can’t stand listening to their jabber much longer so I walk out to

get a breath of fresh air.

 

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

The air is cool out, not cold. 

 

I’m standing at the break room perch next to the portable bar where my friend Ronaldo the  

 Union card carrying Bartender is stationed every season.  I’m just casually leaning on a

 counter at the back of the portable when a really skinny girl appears.

 

 “Hi. Can I eat my food here” She asks. 

 

Who am I to turn a pretty girl away with her lunch?

 

 So she breaks out the Dodger Dog from the blue rapper and it’s dressed in nacho cheese and

 jalapenos.  My own eyes can’t believe that she has created the very type of Dodger Dog that I make

 for myself whenever I have the chance.  “I bar back right here with Ronaldo” she tells me.  Bubble:

 Nice.  I remember her working with us in the Burger Stand once before last year.  Apparently, she

 remembers me too.  “Ronaldo says that I am his Lucky Charm for the tips because all of the guys

 that come (to the bar).”  I let her know that Ronald is my buddy going way back, when. 

 

 We start to talk about our tenure here at the stadium.  This is her fourth season here.

  

“I really like working here, it’s really good extra money” she says, “but I don’t like the Dodgers

 because I don’t like baseball- it’s boring.”  Bubble: One of those, huh?  (I’m aghast but I remain

polite- she is just too darn cute to diss her)

  

“I like basketball, so I’m a really big Lakers fan,” she admits “Even though the Lakers, suck.”  

 (She does have a saving grace, kind of)

 

 I stop her right there and ask Lucky Charm what she does for a living.  She tells me that she is an

 esthetician. “No way, that’s what my sister does, esthetician!”  I go on to tell her how I’ve been

 working a lot outside coaching at the school (my other job) and that I am concerned for my skin.  I

 show her the wrinkle across my forehead and complain that it won’t go away. 

  

“Do you have a girlfriend or a boyfriend?” she asks. 

 

 Surprised, I tell her for sure no bf and that I don’t have a gf at the moment.

  

“Oh, because you kind-of seem like you are. . . you know.” 

Bubble: Flamboyant?

 

 Surprised again, I ask her if she has a bf or gf.  She admits that she has been in a relationship with a

 girl for a year in a half.  “But, I don’t look like it huh?” she asks inquisitively.  I tell her that I would

 say “yes she does” because I was at the grand opening of the new Little Joy Bar (in Echo Park) the

 other night and that there were two girls who where really short and skinny and cute like her and

 they were all lovey-dovey like it was nobody’s business, so I complemented her taste- although I

 admit I like girls with more meat on them.  She smiles.    

 

 “I’ll bring you some cream from my work tomorrow,” she promises and we both head back to work.

 

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

While the United States Marine Corp.  looks on The National Anthem is performed by Jeffery

 Osbourne.  He does a fantastic job, as usual.

 

 

(Footage of Jeff from last season- still Awesome) 

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

It's a steady crowd tonight. 

 

The Korean fans are definitely here tonight showing tremendous pride for their native son.

 

I noticed that me and the Hamburger Helpers are somewhat telepathic.  It's like we are reading 

each others minds.  We finish each others thoughts with our actions- not a word is said.  I spread 

spread the BBQ sauce, Mari adds the bacon, then Jazzy tops it with cheese and we combine the

buns and meat together.  We get in to a groove that is uncanny for just a second day of the regular

season.   No mistakes, either.

 

The game,

 

Ryu is thowing some sweet fastballs that the Giants take a liking to.  80 pitches, 1 run, and 10 hits

off of our rookie.  Not bad.  The only errors of the night were committed by our local homie, short

stop Justin Sellars.  I bet it was their nerves getting to both players this evening.  So, Ryu exits the

game to a might applause but the Dodgers million dollar offense is shut-out.

(Ouch!)

 

The SF Giants defeate the Dodgers  3-0. 

 

 84

OPENING DAY @ DODGER STADIUM 2013

 April 1, 2013

 

Dodger Clayton Kershaw 0-0 (0.00)

versus

 Giant Matt Cain 0-0 (0.00)

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

The bosses at the Stadium want all workers to check-in early for the big game.  I decided to walk to

work so that I don't get caught up in the purgatory of the post-game traffic.  It's the best idea all year.

 

Maybe I'll get a chance to see the tailgating going on.

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

There they are-

and it’s only 8:30 in the morning.

 

 This is how it's done!

 Nice.

A family affair . . . done right.

 

 

 

 

 

The Stadium finally replaced the international flags (From the last World Baseball Classic, 4 years ago)

with the originals: Red, White, and Blue.

Latino Bobblehead?  I guess that suits the Reserve Level.

 

 

 

Some classic Brooklyn Dodgers entertainment a la Ebbets Field.

Some classic Brooklyn and Boyle, East LA Entertainment.  )

 

This is the "New"-Old Blue: Roger Owens, Mort Rose, and Ronald Nelson. 

Thee Original Dodger Vendors.  One other fellow is missing this morning.

 

 

 Warm-ups

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

A Dodger Usher tells me that we are expecting “only” 52,000 visitors today.

What?- with a capacity of 56,000. 

Wonder why.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 Everything is coming together for The Burger Stand Crew.  We are ready to go

Los Angeles Dodger introductions are going on and Dodger rookie pitcher Ryu Hyun-Jin receives a

gnarly applause from the crowd, but then again, so did Paco Rodriguez(?). 

 

I hope both of these guys have career years! 

 

 

 The coolest thing is when the ceremonial 1^st pitch of the game is about to start. 

 

 Magic Johnson is about to take the mound but out of the Dodger dugout, Dodger Skipper Don

Mattinglycalls to the bullpen to make a pitching change.   Mattingly walks to the mound takes the ball

from Magic’s hands and the next thing (We all know!) thee Sandy Koufax emerges to receive the ball. 

Meanwhile, the screams and applause from the fans is out of control.  This was absolutely awesome! 

 

I'll look for the video to add to this post. (Found one)

 

 

 

 

 After catching the 1st pitch Orel Hershiser is gives Koufax a hug.  Then Magic snuck a hug in too.

 

 

 The game,

 

The Burger Crew is in full effect: pickles, lettuce, tomato, onion- over and over and over again. 

Next thing we know it's the 5th inning.  It's a pitchers dual going on between Dodger Clayton Kershaw

and Giant Matt Cain.  The score is zero-zero (Fingers are crossed).

 

A little bit later, I'm sweeping the floor in the Stand.  I glance out to the Dodger Diamond Vision to see

what is going on.   Kershaw is up to bat.  Not thinking anything of it (of course) I continue to sweep

when suddenly I hear the crowd gasp out loud:

"Huhhh!- WHA! - YEEEEAH!!!

 

  

 

SO AWESOME!!

 

The crowd goes NUTTY . . .

 

Lemme get to the point. . . . Dodgers score 4 runs after Kershaw's dinger.

 

Dodger win 4-0 

 

84

 

 

GO DODGERS!!! 

 

Holiday Parade on the Avenue of the Athletes 2012

 

I wrote about the Avenue of the Athletes in Echo Park a few years back.  It's a stretch of Sunset

Blvd. between Alvarado Blvd. and Stadium Way, leading into Dodger Stadium.  Anyway, I was

taking a walk to get some coffee at Angelo's Donut Shop and caught a few pictures of the

holiday parade.   

 

 

I was the only one who booed, these guys.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Echo Park, California- Ave of the Athletes

 

84

 

The Bat Stadium and Other Top Deck Pics, 2012

 

 

The BAT STADIUM

 

 

VW Wedding @ the Top Deck

 

(Window reads "Just Married")

 

DODGER LEGENDS