October 23rd, 2010 - Week Three

Would it be a cliche if I said that it was another great day in Southern California? A friend of a friend said that he had traveled to every corner of the Earth, and of all the places he had been and lived, the weather in Southern California was the best by far. I must agree, (even though I haven't been off of the continent), and to me that kind of sums up this Saturday morning. Although there was no real sunshine for most of the morning, the temperature and climate were just perfect for me. Not too hot and not too cold; there was some happy medium right in between the two that was realized and much appreciated.

The turnout was not the greatest. Especially when you consider that the NBA season starts so soon. Aren't you guys and gals out there enthused? On the eve of what promises to be one of the best NBA seasons in a decade or more, LeBron in Miami, Shaq in Boston and Kobe facing the possibility of another three-peat for the Lakers - now doesn't that get you motivated to go out and through the bean ball round? However, there were about 15 faithful souls that appeared. And, although, several folks left kind of early it was still a good outing. Of course, the games were among the best in Southern California. Perhaps the best on this side of the Mississippi River - hey, maybe even the best on the planet.

Eric and his son Nick were there. The night before, Eric's daughter lent her talent for vocals to the National Anthem before the Lakers game out in Ontario on Friday night. I am looking forward to getting a clip that I can load into this sight, so that we may all enjoy her talent.

One of my train commuter-mates received some tickets to the game from his boss, and attended the game that night in Ontario. I told him about Amber singing the anthem and that she was the daughter of a friend. He said that she, "nailed" the song. So, apparently she did very well. We should all join in to wish her many, many more opportunities to sing before the multitudes at the coming Lakers' games, whether they be in the Inland Empire or at the Laker home at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. Great job Amber!!!

It was another morning where I forgot my camera. Thank goodness, that Robert was there. Many thanks to him for this weeks pictures.

Among the others that showed up at the Chaparral were; Virgil, brothers Scott and Eric, Ben, Ike, Rudy, two Tony's (one more and we would have a mid '90's Hip Hop group); Danny, Mike, Brandon, DeAndre, Raphael, Kent and of course the "Judge" - Roy.

Fortunately, no injuries this week. And, Scott has almost fully recovered from his ankle sprain earlier during the Summer months. I have no reports on our buddy Rudy. But, I am sure he is close to a return to the courts-of-dreams (get it - a play on words from the "Field of Dreams" - clever huh?) here at the Chaparral.

Although a bit too late to see Eric's daughter sing, I will be attending the Lakers game on Halloween. My approach will be to dress up like a Laker and arrive on the back side of Staples Center. Therefore, I will be able to enter the Center with the team. I will use my uni to get into the locker room and later triumphantly enter the game with the team during the team introduction. I'm really looking forward to the game, they'll be playing the Golden State Warriors. So, please, be prepared with the money and all, in case the Lakers organization doesn't have a sense-of-humor and I need to get bailed out of jail for trespassing. It'll be worth it though, right?

Well, that's all for this week. I hope every one of you has a fantastic week and shows up bright, early and eager this coming Saturday morning. Take care.....