Charge, Fair Maid!

It’s the stuff of family lore, seen on a faded clipping taped in a scrapbook. Years ago, my teenage aunt was crowned Queen of the Jousting Tournament. It was a big deal in that largely rural farm community near Laurel in the 40's, because the jousters were local heroes and the annual festival was the highlight of the summer.

The joust was staged by the Aicheson family. One of my aunt’s contemporaries, Joe Aicheson, became a champion steeplechase jockey. He still exercises horses in Laurel. Another dashing jouster, Bunk Athey, aka Sir Willifican, Black Knight of Burtonsville, served for many years in the Maryland General Assembly.

Jousting, even before being designated Maryland’s state sport, was an occasion of great merriment. I barely remember most of the tournament festivities. But like most little girls, I never forgot the horses.

Our local jousting field, Willis Hall, was lost when I-95 went through, and my grandfather’s farm is now a housing development. But jousting is still a cherished community activity in other parts of the state, where tournaments celebrate Maryland heritage, pageantry and horsemanship. This weekend I saw the Maryland tradition is still very much alive.

The journey to Prince Frederick and 350+ year old Christ Church was a nostalgic memory of those long ago jousting matches I attended. With a twist. Now, instead of wearing a wreath of flowers and hoping to be crowned Queen of the Tournament, the energetic young ladies I saw were mounted on their own faithful steeds, lances at their sides, awaiting their cue.

“The rings are hung. The field is clear. Charge Fair Maid!”

With that, the aspiring lords and ladies take their tilt at tradition.

Unlike the contact sport associated with Camelot and the RenFest, modern jousting is a demonstration of horsemanship, hand eye coordination and balance. No shish kabobing the opposition in this state. Like target practice or skeet shooting, jousting is a test of marksmanship. Add the mount and motion and you see what a singular skill it is.

The 80 yard flat track has overhead arches similar to giant croquet wickets. Suspended from the top is a device holding a ring no larger than a crochet doily. The object is to skewer the ring with a lance that looks something like a pool cue as your horse passes through the arches.

Sound too easy? Imagine focusing the tip of a long spear on a small object while galloping past. I can’t snare a brass ring from a carousel without falling off the horse. (Yes, it happened.) No way I’d trying anything like this.

The ritual pageantry of the joust is part of the tradition. Contestants are identified by their ancestral estates. I can’t imagine “Lady Michaela Patrick, Maid of Autumn Wind,” introduced at the roller derby. But here it was perfectly poetic.

There is great skill required of horse and rider. Horses are trained to run a steady course and not be distracted by the crowds or the arches they must pass through. They also need to respond to the most subtle commands while their rider focuses on the rings. Since they are a major part of the action, the equine partner needs to be well versed in the sport. Like other equestrian activities, proficiency comes after considerable practice.

The rules are simple – complete the course in the requisite time and snare all three rings. Riders get three attempts. In the case of ties, there are ride-offs with rings of increasingly smaller diameter (they eventually look like Peppermint lifesavers) until a winner emerges.

What I enjoyed most was seeing families participate together, and the response they received from friends and neighbors who look forward to this end of summer ritual every year.

No, our state sport will never fill stadiums or garner million dollar endorsements. It will probably never make ESPN. I doubt it will ever drive tourism or reap tremendous economic benefits.

What it does is remind us of Maryland’s pastoral heritage, where our love of horses endures and our sense of community continues to be celebrated with delightful traditions like this.

Nice Ice!

Terry likes to remind Tweety and Blogue, the Sports Marketeers, that attracting mega events to Maryland begins with hosting successful regional tournaments. That’s how you establish a good track record in the community and reputation within the industry.

When the office of Sports Marketing was established a little over a year ago, its mission was to identify and bring events and activities to Maryland, help existing ones grow, and eventually develop new ones. It is the second part of that mission that took Team Terry to Cabin John Ice Rink in Montgomery County to learn more about the 2010 South Atlantic Regionals, taking place this October 9-13.

The name is a bit of a misnomer. The regional event is part of a longer qualifying circuit. More than 700 top skaters from all along the East Coast (from southern Pennsylvania to Florida) will skate in the 2010 South Atlantic Regionals, and compete for a spot at the U.S. Championships which leads to a place in the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver.

The Washington Figure Skating Club and the host Cabin John Ice rink are eager to show support and enthusiasm for these aspiring Olympians during their visit here. We’d like to see more competitions on Maryland ice.

With our temperate climate, Maryland doesn't immediately come to mind when you think of ice activities. But there are a number of facilities -- indoor and out -- which accommodate figure skaters, hockey teams, and curlers.

(That’s right – the athletes who slide and sweep granite stones are known as “curlers.” We have them -- and their bonspiels -- here in Maryland.)

When the Capitals left Largo for their new pond in DC, they also left their practice facility in Piney Orchard. Their departure opened the ice for recreational, prep and college hockey teams as well as figure skating classes. Multi-use facilities in Frederick and Laurel also accommodate team and individual sports. A beautiful new facility on the banks of the Severn was completed a few years ago for the Midshipmen of the Naval Academy. Their annual Crab Pot Tournament is now held at McMullen Hall every February.

So Maryland is poised for more action on the ice, whether it be triple axels or hat tricks. We just need to show we have the support to make these events a success. Stay tuned for more on the upcoming competition in Cabin John.

Nine Months

As a gestation period, it seems like an eternity (especially that last trimester.) For organizing and promoting a major three day event, nine months is nothing.

A quick look at the calendar this week told me that a) my water bill is due, and b) the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Championship will be facing off in Baltimore in just nine months, after an absence of two years.

An event of this magnitude does not consist of intense labor pains on the last day (but you can count on that, too.) It's an ongoing engagement of community stakeholders committed to making the event a success. Nine months flies by as one detail after another is addressed. Logistics, marketing, outreach, volunteer recruitment, accommodations, media relations all need careful planning and lead time.

However, the rules of engagement first have to be blessed by the NCAA. It is, after all, their event and they have very specific regulations that must be followed to the letter. So while the host city and state are raring to begin, they take the lead from the NCAA governing body.

I called Terry to check the status and learned he was meeting with NCAA officials this week. He referred me to their site:

Much of the marketing and outreach will handled by Inside Lacrosse Magazine.

The 2010 Division I Women’s Lacrosse Championship will take place at Towson’s Johnny Unitas Stadium on May 28 and 30. This will mark the first time the men’s and women’s championships will be in the same city the same weekend.

There will also be, for the first time, an NCAA Youth Lax Day - Saturday, May 29th -to celebrate local and national youth lacrosse. There will be a special Youth Lax section in the stadium, featuring discounted tickets.

Youth Lax Day will have a pre-game gathering area for participating programs wearing team jerseys, with a parade to the stadium and around the field . When you consider all the lax programs in this area alone, you can imagine what a delegation that could be. They might have muster at Camden Yards and march in like the brigade of Midshipmen before the Notre Dame game.

There is more on the line than producing a well-organized event that provides a wonderful fan experience and generates lots of loot for the locals. It’s no secret that Team Terry and the Maryland lacrosse community have been lobbying the NCAA decision makers to designate Baltimore on Memorial Day weekend a lacrosse tradition.

“Permanent” is actually the word they have in mind, but with the continued growth in the popularity of lacrosse, it behooves the NCAA to stage their marquee event in emerging markets. So an occasional visit to the hinderlands is appropriate and healthy for the sport. But you can’t top Maryland as the holy grail of lacrosse action, or Baltimore as a venue people want to visit and celebrate the sport. The NCAA Championship should be held here regularly.

Anyway, the clock is ticking. Nine months. Let the stomach churning begin. Nothing a few Saltines can’t handle. . .

Rollicking Rollers

Imagine stepping into a Coen Brothers movie, with John Waters characters and Christopher Guest commentators. A spectacle where the crowd is part of the action (and major part of the attraction.) Where side shows consist of a rock band, two flying gyroscopes that bounce to the music, and theme dressing uber fans who rouse the rabble by waving signs made from pizza lids.

Welcome to Charm City Roller Derby at the Du Burns arena.

It was the proverbial dark and stormy night, but that was no deterrent to the loyal followers of the Charm City Roller Girls. Did not take long to understand why. Roller Derby is a sensory experience, beginning with the aromas wafting from the concession stand. Hotdogs, hamburgers and curried fish. PBR, and Flying Dog. From the time you enter the arena, your senses are on overload, stimulated by the unknown and unexpected.

First thing I noticed inside was someone lettering a sign on a torn piece of cardboard. Not unusual for a Baltimore street corner, but a little out of place here. Particularly by someone scanning a Kurt Vonnegut novel for literary references. It seems waving signs at favorite roller girls is part of the fan experience. This particular one was a tribute to Tyrannosaurus Lex, with Female Trouble. I guess she’s a Slaughterhouse-Five fan, but pacifist sentiments seemed a bit ironic here.

Another support sign was attached to a cheerleader in leopard pajamas, spike heels and a white boa. This HonFest hottie waved from the rink perimeter as Female Trouble whizzed close enough to flutter her feathers.

The spirit squad included an assortment of mascots. They consisted of a spam sandwich and a hot dog (for the junior varsity bout) and a banana and tuxedoed crab for the main event. I really liked the baloney guy. He kept the crowd in a frenzy with frequent dashes through the stands. It reminded me of the streaking craze in the 70's.

Following the action was much easier with ongoing commentary by Dirty Marty and his sidekick Jim Meyer. Nattily attired in gold sequin and spandex lame ensembles, they were joined this particular evening by Eddie Spaghetti, a Philly announcer clad in skin tight leopard jeans. Their bantering reminded me of Howard, Frank and Dandy Don during the glory days of Monday Night Football.

Unlike most sports, the officials have personalities and fans of their own. I noticed particular appreciation for Albino Wookie and Grand Theft Autumn. Justice Feelgood Marshall appeared to be the ringmaster since he wasn’t on skates and seemed to have the last word. No dissenting opinions, either.

Roller derby is a hoot. To the uninitiated, it looked like a lot of pushing and shoving while circling counterclockwise at high speed. But there is real skill and true determination involved. And yes, it’s a contact sport. Despite all the drama on the sidelines, the action on the boards is very real and equally intense.

The athletes compete as much for hometown pride as love of the game. Auditions are open, and roller girls come from varied backgrounds and professions. One of the Female Trouble (I hesitate to say B-girl) presumably leaves her leopard tights at home while on duty as a hospital administrator at Hopkins. One of the varsity pivots is a nurse who has volunteered with AIDS patients in Africa. You really don’t know who might have a secret life as a jammer because their personas are carefully hidden behind a nom de guerre like Robin Drugstores or Creeping Myrtle.

I can’t describe the bouts without a lengthy explanation of the rules, which you can read here. But I can tell you there was great joy in Mobtown when the Charm City Girls rang the Liberty Belles in the “East Coast Grudge Match”

Take a look at the action yourself.

The bout was webstreamed live on Derby News Network.
It’s an amazing culture, with a strong sense of community. Read the program and note the Charm Girls sponsors and supporters. From Hampdon to Pigtown, Dundalk (even Nester Aparacio is a fan) to Highlandtown, the sport and personalities have a real following.

They also have a social conscience. On this particular night, the heart of gold jockettes raised about $2,000 from the capacity crowd to benefit James Privott, the elderly victim of a recent hate crime. “Eracism” was stenciled on many of the hometown uniforms.

Special thanks to City spokesman Ian Brennan, who scored a pass to the VIP section for me. Ian is a longtime roller derby fan, and he made me understand why the sport enjoys such loyalty. My only regret is that I couldn’t stay til the end of the bout and join the fans and roller girls for the apres skate across the street at Dellarosa’s. Instead of tailgating before the event, you party afterwards. I'm told the $5.00 buffet and dance jam are splendid.

So there has to be a “next time” for me. But I’m going in costume. Warn the leopards.

Iron Girls and Triumphant Torontans

Terry journeyed to Columbia early yesterday morning, taking his young daughter to see the 4th annual AFLAC Iron Girl Triathlon, The event was produced by Columbia Triathlon (also responsible for the Eagle Man and other Tris in and around the state) in conjunction with Howard County Recreation and Parks. There were a record setting 2,419 participants (The extra 19 came via the Ulman Fund, a cancer support foundation) which made it the largest such event in the country.

The Iron Girl consists of a .62-mile swim, a 17.5-mile bike ride and a 3.4-mile run. Terry arrived early enough to see the first wave in the lake and stayed long enough to see most of the transfers. He was very impressed with the beauty of the layout and the organization of the event. His daughter was very taken with all the pink displayed and the energy of the athletes themselves.

(Girl power is best learned early in life.)

As the temps climbed into the 80's, Terry headed to Annapolis for the second event in his Sunday twin bill, the World Lacrosse League championship at Navy-Marine Corps stadium.

This isn’t a new event (its ninth year) but the championship is new to the area. Some of the players were very familiar with the stadium, since the Bayhawks now play there. Others played there against Navy. Denver goalie Jesse Schwartzman claimed it as one of his favorites during his Hopkins career.

A crowd of 7,000+ showed up for the Sunday match, more than attended the doubleheader on Saturday. All three games were thrillers, with Toronto’s winning goal (sorry, Jesse) coming in the last minute of play Sunday.

Major League Lacrosse is still evolving its product, but Navy-Marine Corps Stadium is contracted to host the championship series for the next two years. That means NCAA men’s and women’s tournaments will be held in Baltimore Memorial Day weekend and MML championship will be in Annapolis three months later.

What Matters Most

"I’m not trying to grow grass, I’m trying to grow kids."
– Amos Alonzo Stagg

The centerpiece of Ripken Baseball in Aberdeen, where thousands of youngsters come every year to celebrate the game and learn from one of its masters, is not named after the Iron Man himself. That distinction belongs to the minor league stadium just a few hundred yards away.

The focal point, where the Cal Ripken World Series games were played last week, is a scaled down stadium modeled after Camden Yards. It holds 5,000 spectators but even more important, it holds the dreams of the many young ballplayers from around the world whose love of the game brought them to play with the best in their age group.

That Field of Dreams is known as Cal Sr.’s Yard. Both name and purpose honor the man who understood that teaching the fundamentals of baseball provided valuable lessons not only in the sport, but in life. The Cal Sr. Foundation, which is responsible for the facility and many of the programs it supports, reflects the role baseball plays in building community and giving opportunity to those who may be otherwise disadvantaged in their lives.

There was a suspended delay between games due to a thunderstorm threat when Team Terry arrived, so I had the opportunity to wander the complex. The layout is amazing, with ballfields incorporating the elements of several of the classics (even a “Green Monster” for the faux Fenway) It must seem like a fantasy to those kids who love the sport and identify with its history. There’s also a Wrigley Field and a Memorial Stadium and, most recently, a Yankee Stadium. Outfitted with lights and regulation in size, the new field is used by the summer college league.

Picnic pavilions and tables located throughout the complex contribute to the family friendliness of the facility. But the most intriguing feature (at least to me) is right in the center of the activities.

Along the upper concourse, just beyond a concession stand, is a vegetable patch where peas, corn and squash were enjoying the light sprinkle. A small plaque by the gate shows Cal Sr. and his wife Val in their family vegetable garden many years ago. The message, from Cal, Jr. and Billy, relates their dad’s philosophy about the importance of nurturing children as they grow, just as you would a garden.

This same theme is carried throughout the complex with signs about the principles of Ripken baseball –keep practicing, ask if you don’t understand, work hard, and have fun.

Which brings me back to Amos Alonzo Stagg, the Grand Old Man of college football. His belief in the importance of sports in developing character made him a leader organizing baseball, basketball and football programs in the early 20th century. Towards the end of his life, he was watching a group of youngsters playing football on his front lawn. One of his neighbors mentioned that it would probably ruin the grass if they didn’t stop.

To which Mr. Stagg replied what was most important to him – growing kids.

That’s the message I took from my visit to Ripken Baseball . Cal Sr’s lessons are still being taught, and their value is seen in the success of that wonderful facility and the joy of the kids who learn there.

Facing off -- Annapolis in August

Terry should be in Annapolis now. Fortunately, the clouds have cleared and I'm willing to bet there's tailgating underway.

(Doesn't matter the season or reason -- if it takes place at Navy-Marine Corps Stadium, there will be tailgating. They even tailgate before walkathons and the annual Rotary Crab Feast.)

At noon the Major League Lacrosse championship series begins with a faceoff between the Denver Outlaws and Boston Cannons in the first semifinal. At 3:00 PM, the Toronto Nationals will take on the Long Island Lizards for the second slot.

Championship will be at 1:00 PM tomorrow (Sunday, August 23rd.) The series will be televised live on ESPN2 in the states, and TSN2 in Canada.

Tune in and hopefully get a good look at beautiful Annapolis as well as some great lacrosse. No better place to play (or tailgate) than Maryland.

Doubleheader at Du Burns

Tomorrow I'm going to a roller derby extravaganza. Not only are there two matches (games, bouts, rounds -- not sure about the unit)but the Charm City Roller Girls are taking on two teams from Philly! It's the Female Trouble and Mobtown Mods rumbling against the Independence Dolls and Liberty Belles.

Does this sound like a Janet Evanovich "between the numbers" episode?

It gets better. My guide for this adventure is Ian Brennan, a fellow communicator from the Mayor's office. Ian is from upstate New York and a long time roller derby aficionado. (Mike Frenz, also from New York, verifies it has a cult following there.)

Ian told me the fan experience at roller derby is unlike any other. Great comaradarie among the roller girls, their families, and their fans. I'm looking forward to this cultural experience, which begins at 7:00 PM tomorrow.

En Garde!

As mentioned many times before, our Facilities Guide is -- and will always be -- a work in progress. We continue to be amazed by the quality and quantity of sports and recreation venues in the state. Occasionally, we are also enlightened, like yesterday when I discovered how many places in Maryland teach, practice and compete in fencing.

It started with a calendar item I noted for youth classes in Columbia. I casually mentioned it to MSA boss Mike Frenz, who said his daughter was a recreational foil fencer.

Living in Annapolis, I was aware of fencing programs at St. John's and the Naval Academy. (You thought croquet was the only sport they had in common?) That fencing might be practiced outside college campuses (and productions of "The Three Muskateers") by swashbuckers of all ages and genders never occurred to me when mine were young.

(Just as well. Putting swords in the hands of my two would have been foolhardy to the extreme. They were scary enough with souvenirs from the Renaissance Festival.)

So today I've been researching and adding fencing venues and contact information to our data base. If any aspiring Zorros out there know of more, please send the info.

In the meantime, I'm putting one more activity on the "to do" list. En garde, d'Artagnan!

Tales of the Trails (where money's not the only object)

When Arlene and I were returning from Cumberland we stopped in Hancock, a lovely town on the Western Maryland Rail Trail. Like Allegheny Highland, the Western Maryland follows the eponymous railroad that hauled coal through the mountains of Maryland, Pennsylvania and West Virginia in the last century. In some places, the bed followed the C&O canal as it weaved along the Potomac. In others, it cut through the mountains and over the river to avoid the rival B&O line.

It is this part of the rail bed that piqued my interest. While the 23 mile existing route is beautiful (especially during fall foliage) and historic (Fort Frederick dates to the French and Indian War,) the proposed 14 miles extension from the Pearre terminus into West Virginia and back to Little Orleans is stunning in its scope. It consists of six trestles across the Potomac and three tunnels under the Alleghenies. I picked up a brochure produced a citizen advocacy group and decided to check on the progress of this proposed rail trail. The pictures are truly breathtaking and I could just imagine what an asset this would be for outdoor recreation in Western Maryland.

I checked the website, where the most recent news dated to a commitment for funds from the Ehrlich Administration. Before delving any deeper into the status of a rail trail on the other side of the state, I decided to check on the one nearest to my heart (not to mention my home) in Anne Arundel County – the South Shore Trail between Odenton and Annapolis.

As mentioned previously, the South Shore has been on the county’s to do list since the prior millennium. A notice on their advocacy group’s website indicated there was to be some kind of groundbreaking this summer. Since this is August and I haven’t seen any shovels, I called to inquire. Ken Alban, director of capital projects for the rec department, gave me an update.

Like the Potomac, the status meanders -- between good and no so much with mountains in between. Good news is Mr. Alban’s enthusiasm for trail construction. First thing he mentioned was the completion of a long awaited portion of the WB&A trail between Odenton and Bowie that will eventually (that word again) connect to Washington. As for the South Shore, (here comes the discouraging part) the information about the summer groundbreaking was erroneous. That wasn’t going to happen. But the good news (just around the bend) is that the engineering and design are continuing and money is available if it can be transferred from one segment of the trail to another. It seems that the portion scheduled to be completed first encountered a little difficulty (back to the bad news) with wetlands. (Oh, dear. I know what that means) that might require more property acquisition ($$$$) to work around.

There are tougher obstacles in Anne Arundel County than wetlands (like maybe an Indian burial ground) and worse things than environmental permits (the Corps of Engineers comes to mind.) So the current challenges facing the South Shore Trail are not deal breakers, not even in this economy. After talking with Mr. Alban, I felt a lot better about the South Shore Trail. It wasn’t happening this year, but the tedious groundwork – permits, design, easements, purchasing – is underway. It is a work in progress, not a dead issue.

So what happened to the Western Maryland trail extension? It seems money has been committed, and support from the community is ongoing. Where are we there?

A call to the DNR office overseeing the existing trail was certainly the most interesting of the day. It seems the project has encountered an obstacle more daunting than the mountains or river (or even the Corps of Engineers.)

During an environmental impact survey of the proposed trail, scientists learned the Indigo Tunnel – built in 1904, abandoned in 1975 and nearly a mile long – is now the premiere winter quarters for several species of bats. Hundreds and hundreds, maybe thousands, of bats. In fact, the Indigo Tunnel is the one of largest hibernaculums in the East.

Why don’t they just go to Florida for the winter? (No, I didn’t say that.) I did, however, politely inquire if perhaps the bats could find a nice cave in nearby West Virginia or Pennsylvania to hole up if they didn’t want to migrate to warmer digs.

That’s where the story takes a turn for the worse. It seems that not only is the linear shaft of the Indigo tunnel a convenience, it is also a sanctuary from the dreaded White Nose Syndrome responsible for killing hibernating bats throughout East Coast caverns. Maryland, with its lack of caves attracting spelunkers (one theory is humans spread this fungus on their equipment) has thusfar managed to avoid contamination of White Nose Syndrome. Bats who winter Chez Indigo emerge healthy in the spring.

Adding to the urgency of this hibernation haven is that two of the species identified in the survey (that’s right – they took a bat census during nap time) are endangered. The Eastern Small-footed bat is on Maryland’s list and the Indiana bat is a federal endangered species.

I have great sympathy for the plight of the bats. They are good environmental citizens (really tough on mosquitos) and don’t deserve terminal White Nose Syndrome. But can’t they share? Do they have to have all the tunnel all the time?

Evidently, they do. In addition to snoozing, they also propagate in the intimacy of the Indigo. Baby bats cling to their mothers, who get very skittish when disturbed (I remember those days.) Problem is, bats don’t have nests to park their young. If they fall off mom, it’s over for the already-endangered next generation. So protecting the privacy of mother bats is another reason to keep humans out of the tunnel.

The nice lady told me the Feds were expected to have their environmental study completed this fall. At that point they should have a better idea about minimizing disruption to the bat community -- if possible.

Until then, the much anticipated Western Maryland Trail extension will just have to wait. Some obstacles are even higher than mountains and more convoluted than the Potomac.

Remembering two sports legends in Montgomery County

Sometimes learning new things opens a nostalgic link with your past. If you're lucky, it brings memories to savor. When the subject is sports, you can almost count on it.

I wasn’t aware of a Summer Collegiate baseball league until my trip to Charles County, where the Cal Ripken Sr. All-Star Game was taking place later that week. Later, I learned about one of the teams, the Maryland Redbirds, because they play on the newest facility in the Ripken complex, a regulation size field modeled after the old Yankee Stadium. Three "I didn't know thats" from one trip to a soccer match. But it gets better.

I cyberstalked the Redbirds to the league championship, where they lost to the powerhouse Big Train from Montgomery County. Big Train? Could that moniker be homage to Walter Johnson, the Washington Senators pitcher whose fastball blazed past batters like a southbound freight?

Johnson, the Babe Ruth contemporary whose Hall of Fame career made Washington a respectable team in those days, has a Montgomery County High School named for him. But did his nickname inspire a college team?

I was tracking the Big Train when derailed yet again. Yes, the team is named for the legendary pitcher. But what’s really neat is where they play. Shirley Povich Field. I was stunned. A ballfield named for Shirley Povich! How cool is that?

I grew up reading the Washington Post, and even as a kid loved the lyrical prose and keen observations of Shirley Povich. He (that’s right – he) was the Post sports editor and his regular column, This Morning, was my first read for many years. (As long as I’m waxing nostalgic, have to mention Bob Addie, another award winning Post columnist known for his rollicking humor and devotion to the Senators. To me, Addie was as entertaining as Povich evocative.)

Shirley Povich covered sports for the Post for as long as many could remember. His career spanned at least 75 years. Although he retired sometime in the 70's, he still contributed to the Post until his death at 92. (As I recall, a column ran the day after he died.)

He was a modest man who seemed to downplay the accolades he received during his amazing career. How appropriate to have a team named for a Washington sports giant play on a field named for a gifted writer who covered him in the hometown paper.

Shirley Povich Field is more than a tribute -- it’s a superb Maryland facility made possible by a private foundation working with Montgomery County Parks and Recreation and the National Capital Park and Planning Commission. The beautiful 1,500 seat park, completed in 1998, is a part of the Cabin John sports complex in Rockville.

In addition to Big Train, another team calls Povich Field home. Since 2000, Georgetown University has played there. It seems Shirley attended law school at Georgetown before realizing his true calling. So a lot of bases (forgive the pun) are covered in this living memorial to a remarkable Marylander.

Team Terry is visiting Cabin John for a look at the complex tomorrow. I know they’ll be impressed with Povich as a top rate facility. But I think they’d appreciate it more if they’d ever read anything by the man it honors. I'll always remember Shirley Povich for making me realize, very early in life, the power of the written word.

Baltimore Grand Prix

A standing room only crowd was shoehorned into Sports Legends this morning. (Fortunately no one invited the fire marshall.) Baltimore Racing Development held a press conference to discuss their strategy for an open wheel street race between Camden Yards and the Inner Harbor in 2011. Good turnout from the local press, with a sprinkling of City and State officials and representatives of the business community. Al Unser, Jr. doubled as the star-power (as did Chris Hoiles) and BRD promoter.

While the presser was more like a pep rally, there was a lot interesting information dispensed. What seemed like a flight of fancy a year ago (when even Councilman Cole thought it a little far-fetched) makes a lot more sense when you learn what Indy Racing League is looking for and weigh it against what Baltimore already offers.

Destination is a huge consideration. The race is almost secondary when it comes to attracting an audience for an entertainment experience, according to Chuck Kosich, long time promoter and part of the BRD consortium. A three day “festival of speed” is the attraction he touts. “Affordable family event” is another part of the formula. But “destination” is the marketing hook. Proximity to the East Coast population center is a big part of that pitch.

The downtown, with its hotels, restaurants, and activities, is the attraction. The festival concept impacts more businesses over a longer period of time. Eventually, (according to Al Unser, Jr.) it becomes an identity, with anticipation for the next annual event beginning as soon as the race is over.

There’s another race going on right now, and it doesn’t involve checkered flags. With a realignment in the world of open wheel racing, Indy Racing League is deciding who will be awarded street races in 2011. While Baltimore is ahead in their fact finding and due diligence, Cleveland, Houston and Boston have also indicated interest. Right now, we’re on the inside track but there are a few pits stops ahead.

One is a money pit, of course. Sponsors, investors, advertisers, government support, in-kind services must all be nailed down. Another is a date workable for a five year commitment (although there is some flexibility on exact weekends available.) Labor Day looks good right now, but that might change a bit. Someone suggested Baltimore on Labor Day could be the traditional end of summer just as Indy on Memorial Day was the beginning. (The "Long Beach of the East Coast" is another possible identity.)

A lot of work lies ahead to make this happen. But it’s hard to contain the excitement. Someone should take pictures from the pedestrian bridges over Howard, Eutaw, Pratt and Light Streets to give an idea of the viewing spaces available. The hotels overlooking the track must be salivating.

Will be interesting to watch the process unfold. As someone said, BDL is handing over the keys. Now it’s time to turn the ignition.

The Crusade to Cal-ville

Today is the opening of the 10th Annual Cal Ripken World Series in Aberdeen. The international tournament is the culmination of the Babe Ruth League’s 12u Cal Ripken division. More than 200 players from around the world will compete. The tournament includes ten teams from regions across the United States and six from around the world. This year, the US and international championship games, along with the World Series final, will air on the MLB Network.

While this may be the marquee event of the summer, it is far from the only youth-oriented baseball activity at the world renown Ripken Baseball facility. Camps and tournaments bring youngsters of all skill levels from all over the country to learn “The Ripken Way” from Cal and his brother Bill all season long. In 2008, this baseball village welcomed players and families from 45 states with more than 10,000 participants and over 40,000 visitors.

While the program’s emphasis on fundamentals and hard work are responsible for its professional reputation, the facility enjoys legendary status among the bubblegum set. Ripken Baseball, with its scale model stadiums modeled after Wrigley Field, Fenway Park, Memorial Stadium and Camden Yards, is awe-inspiring to the young athletes who play there. Those factors (not to mention its illustrious name) have given Aberdeen its own base on the “Field of Dreams” of aspiring players everywhere.

I was Googling for something from a local paper about the opening of CRWS. What I found was even more enlightening, because it puts this event and the Ripken facility in a context we should all appreciate.

There were stories from hometown newspapers (and even television stations) around the country about their all-star teams on their way to Aberdeen. Reading about the excitement and local pride felt in these towns is to understand how much youth baseball is a part of the community fiber, and what a really big deal the Ripken World Series is.

Some of the kids sounded like they were on a pilgrimage to a holy shrine when asked how they felt about their journey to Ripken.

My favorite was a kid in Missouri. He told a reporter about the bathrooms in the dugout at the Ripken complex. That seemed to impress his teammates even more than the grass infields.

In Danbury, the team got a call from Governor Jodi Rell as they boarded the bus, telling them how proud Connecticut was of them. Governor Rell thoughtfully sent a package of snacks for the bus trip to Maryland. (Once a sports mom . . . )

The stories went on and on. Another bus sendoff in Brick, New Jersey, community contributions to help pay expenses for the delegation from Bakersfield, California. Predictions of victory from Lexington, Kentucky.

They relate the universal appeal of youth sports as a family activity. Even when the economy struggles, parents do what it takes to keep kids active and engaged in their sports dreams. If that sport happens to be baseball, you know where Aberdeen, Maryland, is. It's an experience you’d love to share that with your child.

While Ripken Baseball may be the best known of the youth sports facilities and programs in our state, it is certainly not alone. Aloha Lacrosse and Elite Soccer draw youngsters from throughout the region for their tournaments. Meadowbrook Aquatic Center, the home training facility of Michael Phelps, is recognized for its program for top swimming prospects under the direction of Bob Bowman.

Maryland has the opportunity to take a bigger slice of the youth sports competition market because of the home grown talent and wide range of facilities we have here. Terry’s focusing on that very subject in a discussion with recreation and parks officials today in Ocean City. As he does, there’s no better case in point than the action now underway in Aberdeen (where they have bathrooms in the dugout.)

The View From Bin 400

I love the Warehouse. The architectural design is classic E. Francis Baldwin -- stately and functional, built with massive oak beams and Maryland brick. I'm told it was a bear to restore, but its transformation from derelict railroad service facility to office complex with restaurants, shops and banquet rooms has made it one of Baltimore's most recognizable and servicable landmarks.

My uncle worked on the B&O for years and made a number of trips to Camden Yards and the Warehouse. He told me how the B&O carried merchandise for the Howard Street department stores (Hutzler's, Hecht's, etc.) to the Warehouse for storage. Inventory was cataloged by bin numbers, which were painted neatly on the brick walls. When our floor was converted to offices, the exposed brick was retained. So were the bin numbers.

I'm in Bin 400, Warehouse A. My window is on the far right corner, overlooking Camden Station and facing the Convention Center. From my bin, I can see the elegant parties held regularly at Geppi's, and the ongoing activities at Sports Legends. I can hear the light rail squeak and see streams of fans on their way to the ballpark. I gawk at the Otakon faithful in their truly weird costumes when its 90 degrees in August.

I also have a birds eye view of Conway as it turns on to Howard. Which brings me to the news at hand.

Since the City Council passed a resolution Monday night to support Baltimore Racing Development's plan to stage Indy Racing, a lot has happened behind the scenes. To bring the public up to date and outline future challenges, Baltimore Racing is holding a press conference next Monday, August 17th at noon at Sports Legends. Featured guest will be veteran driver Al Unser, Jr., part of BRD's team, and designer of the proposed course which will zoom right under my window.

I can't wait to hear more about this exciting event and meet some of the people involved. This requires a closer look than the one from Bin 400. Be sure to watch the news on Monday evening and tune in to the website for more coverage.

And wave to me in Bin 400.

The Amethyst Hour

Labor Day marked the official end of summer when I was growing up. When I morphed into an adult, surrendering sandals for pantyhose replaced school as the most painful part of the fall transition. Then I came to work at the Warehouse and gained a new fashion perspective.

We’re theme dressers here, and the seasons aren’t marked by cotton or wool, pumps or sandals. It’s much simpler – orange or purple. (Conveniently, the little black dress works all year with the right accessories.)

So having worn various shades of salmon, peach and coral since early spring, I’m ready for the purple passion that lasts through the end of the year. Amethyst jewelry, violet contacts, lavender shawl, plum pumps. Time to pull it all out in celebration. Tomorrow the Ravens swoop into town, and a new season begins for the Warehouse fashionistas.

You’ll still see the orange when the O’s are in town. Fall is a great season for transition. In clothes, weather, and supporting the home teams we love.

Start your engines . . .

Last night, Baltimore City Council unanimously passed a resolution supporting a Grand Prix-style street race in Baltimore. What could be an annual event will have its inaugural run in 2011.

This resolution gives the promoter, Baltimore Racing Development, the support necessary for the governing body, Indy Racing League, to sanction the race as part of its circuit. They indicated this is likely once the Council gave its blessing.

So the process begins, even before a date is selected. Securing sponsorships, identifying media partners, planning infrastructure, and all the other elements in a major production will begin as the two year clock ticks down.

Camden Yards will be in the center of the action, with the service road along Russell Street as the pit and grandstands for spectator seating along this gateway to Baltimore. One of the hairpin turns will be near M&T Bank Stadium, and the course will run along Pratt to the Inner Harbor, around the Science Center (another hairpin) down Conway to Howard with a quick turn on Camden and a spin past Pickles. Terraces wrapping the Convention Center will overlook action on three sides.

We'll keep you on top of all the progress as plans unfold.

Another steller soccer showdown

Terry called this one in as he headed home from FedEx after the DC United-Real Madrid match. He was one of 72,368 who braved heat and humidity (the dreaded double H were in the mid-nineties today) to see the local MLS side take on the Greatest Team Money Can Buy. (Real Madrid recently stunned the soccer world by applying New York Yankee methods to roster development. Several of their $375 million acquistions were unveiled today.)

The high ticket talent eventually prevailed 3-0, but United kept them contained for a good portion of the game, thrilling the hometown fans.

Terry remarked that once again, enthusiasm and attendance showed how supportive Maryland and the Metropolitan region are for soccer. United's fan clubs demonstrated the spirit the franchise is known for with singing, flag waving and drum beating. It was an impressive display for the US bid executives who returned to the region for the FedEx match after attending the friendly two weeks ago at M&T.

We won't know for a few weeks if Maryland makes the cut for consideration in the US bid to host the World Cup, but there is no doubt a strong base of support exists in our state.

Rally in the Fast Lane

Arlene and I had a lot of company has we headed west on I-70 Friday night. The commuter congestion is always intense, but on this particular trek north we jockeyed for lanes with swarms of Harleys, punctuated by iridescent classic sports cars on trailers. Throw in some construction, a few emergency lane closures and Peterbilts the size of freight trains, the exburban migration was a road rally competition worthy of sanction. (No more complaints from me about Howard Street.)

We shed the commuters at various Frederick exits, but the roadsters and easy riders continued the pace. It was going to be quite a night in Mountain Maryland. West Virginia may be wild and wonderful, but the action was going to be on our side of the Potomac this weekend.

There are a lot of reasons to love Western Maryland. The rugged beauty of the mountains and rivers make it one of the most appealing parts of the state. History and heritage abound here, as Cumberland, a transportation hub, played a significant role in the nation's development. River commerce, the C&O canal and several railroads provided a transportation grid from pre-colonial days through the rise of the industrial revolution. Spanning every era is the National Road. First an Indian trail across the mountains, then a trade corridor and Revolutionary army route, the National Road is recognized as the first highway of the modern transportation era. It was a combination of this history, the heritage of regional sports car racing, and Western Maryland's daredevil appeal that brought us to this race.

Hilltop races in Flintsone predate the yabba dabba doo jokes by more than a decade, but the recent incarnation is actually just three years old. They are the brainchild of Mountain Maryland’s (tourism office) marketing efforts in tandum with the National Road Autocross club. The Autocross series takes place at the Cumberland Airport. Realizing that Western Maryland has an economic future in its bounty of natural resources and challenging geography, Mountainside Maryland has focused on attracting motor sports fans, action athletes, fitness buffs and weekend warriors to experience the hills and the great outdoors.

Arlene and I stayed at Canal Place in Cumberland, close to where the C&O meets the Allegheny Highlands trail. We wanted to hike the Canal in the morning but our choice in accommodations offered another bonus – it overlooked the amphitheater where a production of “Hair” was being performed. (Yes, we danced and sang along like true 60's veterans.) Hard for this aging Baby Boomer to imagine “Hair” being staged in Western Maryland, but I never thought I’d see the Dye Works plant restored either, and that process is now underway. Cumberland’s Canal Place is a gateway to outdoor adventure and cultural heritage. Staying there was one of the best parts of the trip.

Because a bicycle and outdoor equipment rental shop is on site, we weren’t surprised to see a number of cyclists, hikers and joggers on the trail Saturday morning. Had we stayed later, I’m sure we would have seen canoes on the Potomac, as those excursions are also available. We were amazed there was so much activity that early in the morning, and that so many of the trail travelers were our age or older. The parking lot was full, with tags from Pennsylvania and West Virginia as well as Maryland.

Our trip to Polish Mountain took us off the interstate and back into the rural community where the original National Road crossed. In order to close the roads for the climb, it was necessary for the autocross club to get legislation passed by the Maryland General Assembly. Even in its third year, the race shows tremendous promise as an iconic event. Participation has grown each year, the meet is sanctioned by the regional hill-climbing body, and there are plans to incorporate it into a larger event with the airport. That will require cooperation with the Federal Aviation Administration (not the easiest sell) but the organizers have been laying the groundwork and have a promising business plan to persude the feds.

(After seeing how the notion of Grand Prix style racing on the streets of Baltimore has been embraced, I’m convinced anything is possible.)

Arlene and I spent a few hours in the paddock, visiting with drivers and chatting with Dave Williams, the tourism marketing guru who drives a hot Porsche. We saw two of the cars who were part of the caravan up Route 70 with the battalion of bikers. We also saw a vehicle that looked like the telecommunication devices on the space station. Several resembled insects, including a vintage bug that reminded me of Herbie.

The cars and their drivers are an eclectic fraternity. A co-ed fraternity at that. One of the most interesting competitors was Dr. Kay Skitarelic Swanson, a pathologist from West Virginia who grew up in Flintstone at what is now Rocky Gap. Dr. Swanson’s father, Dr. Benedict Skitarelic, was one of the founders of the Cumberland races.

Be sure to visit National Road’s website for more pictures of the Polish Mountain Climb. It is an event worth watching, as it is one more reason people gravitate to Western Maryland for excitement, entertainment, and exploration.

As for the Wild Ones, they were with us on the way back, too. Seems Little Orleans is the site of Sturgis East, a weekend motorcycle rally on Apple Mountain. 7,000 bikers were expected to camp on Apple Mountain and ride the scenic hills of Western Maryland. Like the hillclimbers, their weekend visit provides a welcome bump to the local economy. Almost as lucrative as the opening of deer season, one native observed.

This should be an adrenaline charged week. Tomorrow Baltimore City Council considers a resolution to support the IndyRace, the Birds are back in town and the Ravens swoop in to open preseason against the Redskins.

Needa Natatorium

After all, this is the state that produced the most successful aquatic Olympian of all time. It seems every community pool, country club and rec center has a swim team. Even the Severn River has one. There are also water polo teams and master swimmer leagues.

We know these competitors don’t lay off their laps after Labor Day, but for some reason, we are having trouble rounding up information about natatoriums – the enclosed facilities open year round with spectator seating that could host regional competitions.

Yes, some colleges and universities have them. There are even county facilities with regulation pools listed in our data base. But some stealth natatoriums we don’t know about could be lurking in the Maryland countryside. That quest prompted a side trip to Hampstead on the way back from Ravens training camp.

A few weeks ago, I read about a large swimming tournament held there. About 1,100 swimmers from throughout central Maryland qualified for the Strahele Invitational Tournament held at Four Seasons Swim Club. Something involving that many competitors must require an enclosed facility, thought I. And the name suggested year round use.

What I found was a gorgeous outdoor pool with a double life. As soon as the leaves start to turn, out comes the giant bubble. Swimmers never miss a stroke. It even has room for spectator bleachers. Not exactly a natatorium, but certainly a year round facility and a highlight of the swimming circuit.

Can’t help but wonder if there are other bubbles in Maryland we don’t know about.

Since the Junquemobile couldn’t possibly make it to all tournament facilities, we’ve done additional sleuthing via Google. We were able to add basic information about ones that host league tournaments year round, including high schools and colleges, public and private.

But we really need help on this one. Swimming is huge in Maryland and we need to know more about the facilities available for major tournaments. We also need to know what kind of events they’ve hosted in the past, and will in the future.

Please drop us a line and let us know where you swim in the winter. (Sandy Point in January doesn't count, Polar Bears)

Racing to the Mountains!

It's off to Cumberland to enjoy a little quality time on the C&O Canal and Allegheny Highlands trails before checking in with the Polish Mountain Climb folks.

I'm not sure what to expect with the Hill Climb, but Kim Shirer in the tourism office assures me this is a great weekend to be in Western Maryland. Looking forward to the Friday after Five Festival in the Historic District when I get there.

Here's a video I found of a previous Hill Climb It looks like a gas, but I wouldn't try any of those mountain curves in the Junquemobile.

Here's something else revving our engines: it looks like the Indy Racing League is close to sanctioning an annual race on a 2.4-mile street course around the Inner Harbor and stadiums. With this encouragement, and the matter before Baltimore City Council on Monday, it's possible these open wheeled racers could be coming to Camden Yards (we'd be a major staging area) in 2011.

Even if daredevil drivers and careening cockpits aren't your thing, look at it this way: the street course will be repaved to the smoothness of glass (which will help the evening commute) and the visitors it will bring over a four day period (plus the weeks of staging) will have a tremendous positive impact on the regional economy. Plus, the media coverage will showcase Baltimore and its assets at their most beautiful.

I'm stoked. Hope you are, too. Now, off to the mountains!

Ravens in the Rain

It was pouring when I left Taneytown Sunday morning. Perfect, I thought. I wanted to swing by the Ravens camp in Westminster. The streets were so congested on Saturday I could barely get through, much less stop. And that was BEFORE the news of Derrick Mason’s return broke. All I could see above the fray were a lot of welcome banners and signs in store windows around town. It was only slightly less chaotic than opening day of the legislature in Annapolis.

With the Sunday morning deluge, I figured no one would venture out and might get close enough to see the blue of Joe Flacco’s eyes.

Wrong. Really, really wrong. There was a break in the rain, but none in the steady stream of fans trudging up the hill to the football field. They had umbrellas, ponchos, tarps, coolers, and folding chairs. Some had little kids in tow. Many were senior citizens. They all knew it was going to rain, and they didn’t care. They were coming to see their Ravens.

The hill was pretty full and practice was underway when I arrived. I asked a few soggy spectators where they were from. Most were local – Carroll or Frederick County – but there were two from nearby Pennsyvlania. Almost all were decked out in Ravens gear. My Markakis shirt was conspicuously out of season.

The folks in Westminster feel special, because they connect with the Ravens before anyone else. They see them on the streets and in restaurants and they feel the energy the team brings (along with the $$$$, also greatly appreciated.)

Summer camp is a cherished annual ritual here. An older couple told me they’d been coming for years. The lady said she knew Joe Flacco was going to be a star long before anyone in Baltimore caught on. The guy behind me said he knew – just knew – Derrick Mason was coming back because he knew how much the team meant to him.

It was as if they were talking about their neighbors. When I thought about it, I realized they were.

I didn’t stay too long. The thunder was ominous, and I had a long way to go. But as I walked down the hill, others were making their way up to cheer their home team favorites.

I know there are suburbanites who will always be Redskin fans. There are some who never stopped loving the Colts, even after their ignominious departure. I’m told when you go as far west as Cumberland, you’ll encounter an occasional misguided soul who found solace with the Steelers after their hearts were broken in 1984.

But it was clear to me, during that steady rain, that the Ravens are Maryland’s team. I can’t wait to have them back here in Camden Yards, but now I understand the special bond they have with Carroll County.

Bucking Brahmas

I was intrigued to learn Baltimore was part of the Professional Bullriding circuit. Not quite curious enough to spend a Saturday night at 1st Mariner, but certainly enough to tune in Versus and watch some of the broadcast live. I kept covering my eyes because it was scarier than some of the Dew Tour dramas. Definitely not for the faint of heart. But, like Dew and other action sports, bullriding has an enthusiastic and rapidly growing fan base.

One thing I learned is that, while the macho riders certainly had their loyal followings (including the "buckle bunnies" who follow their favorites on the circuit) so do their bovine competitors. Two of my favorites were Booger Butt (pictured above) and Blueberry Buckle. Blueberry was a particularly tough customer. After tossing one rider in two seconds, he ran after him with his horns. Other than Ray Lewis, there's no one I'd rather not be chased by.

Even more of a surprise was learning some of these beefers hail from Maryland. I filed that in the back of my mind as a future field trip --find the breeder of the bucking Brahmas. Today, I did.

The quest took me to Johnsville, a small community near Union Bridge. The J Bar W Ranch was visible from the road, as was the 3,000 seat arena where bullriding and barrel racing rodeos take place every other Saturday night during summer months. When I arrived, the concessionaires were preparing for the event tonight. I was lucky enough to snag a few moments with Debbie Williams, whose son Sonny is one of the owners of the ranch.

Sonny was himself a bullrider, competing on the top circuit for several years. When he gave up riding professionally, he began a breeding operation at the family's dairy farm. The bulls are "Bred to Buck" and many have made it to the upper echelons of the sport. (One alumni, Shock and Awe, competed in Las Vegas, the Super Bowl of the bucking business.)

Their herd numbers several hundred now. I saw a few wandering around, but remembering Blueberry Buckle, I didn't get too close. Instead, I learned more about the activities and attractions they offer. In addition to raising the bulls, the family also produces rodeos that are not only popular spectator events, but fund raisers for local charities. They also offer birthday and theme parties for. (Why didn't I know about this when my two terrors were young?)

In addition to the summer rodeos at the J Bar, they do a Battle of the Beast series every Saturday night during winter months at the Agriculture Center in Westminster. There will be a special Battle of the Beast bullriding competition during the Maryland State Fair in Timonium on August 31st. Similar exhibitions are slated for the Frederick and Montgomery County Fairs this year.

Debbie Williams was particularly proud of the money they've raised for the local hospice foundation. They've also hosted a number of wounded war veterans in the 13 years they've been putting on the rodeos.

So for family fun and entertainment, a trip to the bullriding ring may be just the ticket. And who ever thought you'd find that here in Maryland?

Weather or not

I thought this was going to be a tough one. I was supposed to go kayaking with Donna Dudley in Indian Head yesterday, but the storms scrubbed that one. Heading to Thomas Point for the start of the Governor's Cup, I saw what looked suspiciously like funnel clouds over Arnold. Nix that.

So now I have to scramble like Flacco for some new plans. Bingo! Perfect metaphor. I'm off to Carroll County in search of adventure. No, I don't think the Ravens have camp today, but there are other intriguing possibilities in the Maryland piedmont. I understand there are other beefy athletes in training up there, and I might be able to catch their practices before tonight's scrimmage. Yeehah.

A Traveler’s Tribute

About 3:00 PM yesterday the munchies hit. The kind that requires an Oreo fix. That means a trip to the Warehouse basement machine, which is a nice afternoon break anyway. In the basement, the Warehouse really looks like a warehouse. It still has the coal shafts that fed the furnaces back in the day. Great old building.

On the way to the basement, the elevator was intercepted at the ground floor. A security guard held it and told me I’d have to wait a few moments. From the look of the swarming Sox fans, whoever they were holding hostage was going to be there signing autographs a while. Swell, I thought. I should have stopped by MASN to see if Marlene would slip me something from her stash instead of braving the Beantown invasion.

After a few minutes, a tall lanky guy with more than a few gray hairs made his way to the elevator. When he saw me inside with that look of Oreo desperation, he apologized for making me wait, completely disarming me with a smile.

I remarked that it seemed like more predatory Sox fans than usual (I don’t think I said it quite like that, but you get the drift.)

“They love coming here,” he replied with genuine appreciation. “It’s hard to get tickets in Boston because the stadium is so small. So when we play here, families can come for a game and have a good time in a great city.”

The elevator opened, and he headed for the clubhouse as I stopped at the machine. “Thanks for waiting,” he said. As he walked away, he turned around and said “This is a great baseball town.”

I was still munching on the Oreos in the office when I found who the gracious, goateed guy in the elevator was. Didn’t need to Google. His picture was on the front of the Sox website because he was slated to start that night.

I see the O’s weren’t overly hospitable to John Smoltz, tagging him for five runs including two homers. But he took the win last night, so I’m guessing he still thinks Baltimore is a great town.