The Last Saturday in July

Those of you that are astute are probably aware that in last weeks blog I called that Saturday (July 24th) out as the third Saturday of the month. However, somewhere around Thursday night, a light popped on in my mind and I realized that last Saturday was the fourth Saturday of July not the third. I checked the calendar and realized the error that I made. Fortunately, I was recently granted an artist's license. It works for both the visual and literary arts. So, as the fact-checking police approach, I have the license ready for review. The license also excuses me for misspelling or incorrectly naming and labeling pictures.

A couple of weeks ago I stated that Shaq was acquired by the Celtics. Yes, the license covers errors of that nature as well. I now you were all getting pretty excited 'cause you thought you had me on that one. Well, the rumor was close. It just turned out that it was the other O'Neal that was acquired, Jermaine O'Neal. The latest rumor I've heard was that Shaq may be going to Atlanta in a trade for Marvin Williams (and maybe other considerations like draft choices). Chances are pretty good that he will miss this season altogether.

We're all hoping that Shannon Brown will be re-signed by the Lakers, but apparently, the New York Knicks are interested. So to keep Shannon, the Lakers may have to dig in their pockets a little bit. Dig Jerry, dig, we want Shannon back.

I'm pretty proud of myself because I've learned the names of most of the Band of Cousins that showed up today. I'm just a little insecure with young lady's name that was with them. I think her name was Miranda. Then there was Shawn, Irvine, Richard, and (of course) Rob.

There were a few faces at the Chapparal that haven't been there in a while. There was our holiday man, Kenny who came by. I asked him what he was doing there on a day that was not a holiday and he said that it was Gopher Day. Gopher Day? I think he just used that excuse for his wife. But we were glad to have him on court, holiday or no holiday.

Bruce was also there. I haven't seen him in a long while. But judging by his play, he hasn't missed a beat either. Just like Kenny. These two (Kenny and Bruce) are always competative, no matter how long they are away from the Chapparal. Manny was also on board today. He came early, he left early though. Virgil's friend also came early and left after a couple of games. He represented well for Virgil, since Virgil didn't show up today.

It was a pretty cool morning, and overcast. It took a while for the sun to come out. And when it did the temperature started to rise. But the weather was always good, no complaints. It has been a great summer for the Chapparal. July checks in as another terrific month for outdoor play in Southern California.

One can see in the background that the new gymnasium on-site is nearing completion. They painted last week and appear to be adding an awning to the front of the structure.

Mondo also re-appeared after a long absence. Apparently, he had a few injuries that have been healing over the past weeks/ months. The hazards of league play. He suffered an injury that seperated the middle two fingers of his left hand. Ouch! Hopefully he'll be back again soon.

I hope everyone has a productive week and i'll see you all again next Saturday!!

Here is the mandatory picture of Richard, thanks Robert for the photograph.

The Band of Cousins, Rob, Shawn, Irvine and Miranda line up for foul shots.

Mondo, with Mike, Eric, Virgil's buddy and Bill.

Ike and Luis give the thumbs up sign, als well....

Robert and Kenny pose for a picture.

Kenny and Danny pose for a photograph after a competative opening game.