PSA from PSA are Public Service Announcements from Pad Squad Andre. PSA keeps Gaslamp Ballers informed of happenings that we should know about if we are to spend more time with Pad Squad Andre. -Dex

“If you love this game, the game will love you back.”

-Andre “The Hawk” Dawson

2010 HOF Speech

Today’s off day for the Padres allows us to reflect on where we have been, where we are, and where we are going.

The last week of July is always a nervous and exciting time for baseball fans, especially this year. Many Padres fans are busy with talks of trades and exactly how many wins it will take to make it to the post season.

For me, I like to consider how great the last four months of baseball has been for the city of San Diego. The Padres have played simply fantastic for their fans. Every one on the roster has contributed to where we are this last week of July. Names like Aaron Cunningham, Chris Denorfia and Yorvit Torrealba have contributed a lot with their bats while the Padres’ offensive staple of Adrian Gonzalez has remained strong.

But it has definitely been the Padres’ defense that has put the Padres into contention for the playoffs. Consistent pitching along with Web Gems from Tony Gwynn Jr. and the rest of the outfield has made for a very entertaining Padres fan experience this year.

And then this weekend, all baseball fans got a unique opportunity to reflect on the game of baseball. One of my favorite times of the year is the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies. The festivities have taken a special place in my heart and the hearts of the fans of the Padres after watching Tony Gwynn go through the process just a few years ago.

One of my favorite moments of yesterday’s HOF ceremonies was when umpire HOF Doug Harvey, nicknamed “God” on the field, said that he “stopped the rain” at the event.

I also liked Johnny Bench’s rendition of “Take me out to the Ballgame.”

Skipper Whitey Herzog compared being elected into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, “like going to heaven before you die.”

But as we enter the final stretch run of this Padres’ season, it is the words of Andre Dawson that have resonated with me.

Dawson said, “I didn’t play the game with this goal in my mind. But I’m living proof that if you love this game, the game will love you back. I’m proof that any young person who can hear my voice right now can be standing here as I am.”

Dawson’s words speak of the game of baseball allowing magical things to occur because of the love for the game and the playing the game how it was meant to be played. Unselfishly, as a team with each teammate contributing all that they can to make a difference in the game. To me, that sounds a lot like the 2010 Padres.  

So here we are today 58-39 with 65 games remaining in the stretch run of this season. A significant amount of those games still to be played right here at Petco. The  final stretch run begins this week with a very important homestand versus the Dodgers and the Marlins. Every game matters, but it seems to me this homestand matters a little more in my book. I am excited to see what exactly the game has in store for these 2010 Padres, their fans, this homestand and the final stretch run of the season.

PSA from PSA are Public Service Announcements from Pad Squad Andre. PSA keeps Gaslamp Ballers informed of happenings that we should know about if we are to spend more time with Pad Squad Andre. -Dex

"Uh-ha, It's all good baby bay-bee,uh."

-Notorious B.I.G.

It is all good to have baseball back at Petco Park. The opening homestand is a great opportunity to catch up with all of your friends that you have not seen in five months. If you ask me, the first homestand of the year is better than the first day of school and Christmas put together. At least on Opening Day at Petco, every gets a free gift that you can wear the rest of the year, as opposed to the holiday sweater your Aunt might give you on Christmas morning.

I saw a lot of Gaslamp Ballers around Petco this first homestand. I especially like the fact that you can see Gaslamp Ball shirts all over Petco, whether they are in the top of section 325 or in the Sony Dugout Seats. I can see the second five years of this blog will be better than the first.

The other exciting thing about the first homestand of the season is searching out all of the new things at Petco.  One of the best upgrades of the off-season was changing the All-You-Can-Eat program by improving the seat location and reducing pricing. Seating is now in lower level sections (125 and 127), and prices have dropped from $37 in 2009 to $29 in 2010. I think the All-You-Can-East section might be the best value in any major league ballpark. Add the $5 14-ounce beer, and you will be set for a great day, whether the Padres win or lose.

But the Padres definitely had a winning homestand. What I love about baseball, is that every time you come to the ballpark, something different happens. Take these 9 games for an example, Padres had a 10-run inning on opening day, a 1-hit win, a few walk-offs and some great pitching along with amazing defense with everyone contributing. We even had some fantastic web gems from Jerry Hairston Jr. and Tony Gwynn that should up on Baseball Tonight. That is what great Padres baseball is all about in San Diego.

There were a lot of major changes both on and off the field that I noticed this first homestand. But the thing I appreciated most is something that the Padres are improving upon every year. But, maybe this year, it is just more noticeable. It is the the fact that I heard from a lot of fans about how affordable it was to come to the Padres game. Where else in Major League Baseball can you get into Opening Day, or any game for that matter, for just $5. 

It also seemed like a lo tof fans appreciated the new Padres Blueprint. It is a free publication that replaced the other team publication that cost $5 in the past and was published only once a month. Having the new Padres Blueprint published 10 times a season, which is basically every homestand, allows for the articles to be more relevant to what is actually occurring on the field for that homestand. Plus it is free.

It also seemed like the Padres answered some of the Gaslamp Baller's requests to bring back the FREE Frequent Friar program. The Padres did one better and made both Jr. Padres and Frequent Friar free to all fans. And you can't get more affordable than free.

This first homestand was amazing, but I am really looking forward to the next one. The Milwaukee Brewers come to Petco the last weekend in April followed by the Colorado Rockies. Padres Beerfest is Friday, April 30th and it gives fans the chance to sample some of great beer from around the world at a discounted price. Plus on Saturday, May 1st is the Jersey giveaways which is always one of the most popular nights of the year, and  the Chris Young jersey they are giving away this year is a really nice Padres blue jersey.

Photo Day is Sunday, May 2nd which is also very popular. For those of you who come early for Photo Day, be sure to come on over to FriarFit at noon at the Park at the Park after the photo session and say hello.

PSA from PSA are Public Service Announcements from Pad Squad Andre. PSA keeps Gaslamp Ballers informed of happenings that we should know about if we are to spend more time with Pad Squad Andre. -Dex

"The rest of those who have gone before us cannot steady the unrest of those to follow."

William Forrester

My family and I have just returned from a great week in AZ. We saw a lot of games, did not spend very much money and made a lot of great family memories.

The Padres Peoria Ballpark is a great complex. They lowered the price of parking down to $5 and lawn tickets are still just $7. So you guys can see a game for $19.  That is a great value.

I am glad to hear that the Gaslampball Boys are returning to Peoria this year, so I figured I would provide some new tips for their trip. Here are my top 5 and together maybe we can create a top 10.

#5 Do not buy 50 McNuggets for $9.99 if there are only two of you eating them. No person should ever eat more that 20 McNuggets in one sitting.

#4 Gas in AZ is about $.30 cheaper than SD. Plan to fill up in AZ and then do it again before you cross back into CA.

#3 Walk around the concourse area of the Peoria Stadium. Lots of free food, including an awesome Rock Bottom Brewery BBQ sandwich.

#2 Bring some spending money for the Padres store. They have a ton of discounts on items that have the home plate Padres logo.

#1 Go early to the Peoria complex, probably around 9 or 9:30 and watch the Padres practice on fields #1, #2 and #3. This is the best access you will have to talk directly with the players and coaches.

Also, if you decide you want to see another Spring Training facility, I would suggest the Surprise Ballpark. Free parking, inexpensive tickets and a great atmosphere for baseball and just 10 minutes away from the Padres Peoria facility.

PSA from PSA are Public Service Announcements from Pad Squad Andre. PSA keeps Gaslamp Ballers informed of happenings that we should know about if we are to spend more time with Pad Squad Andre.-Dex

"When you are asked if you can do a job, tell 'em, 'Certainly I can!' Then get busy

 and find out how to do it."

 

Theodore Roosevelt

Happy Holidays to all those at Gaslamp Ball. As many of you know, the Pad Squad stay very busy in the off-season. This month, the Pad Squad is participating in many community events around the county. I have seen many Gaslamp Ballers at  some events already this off-season, and I look forward to seeing you all at some of the other events this month.

Upcoming Pad Squad Events:

This Saturday, December 5th, the Squad will be splitting up to participate in some parades around the county. I will be taking part in the Chula Vista Starlight Parade and Festival. The Starlight Parade gets into full holiday swing with carolers, floats, marching bands, drill teams, classic cars and, of course, Santa Claus. The Mayor's Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held in Memorial Park before the parade. Pad Squad will have a booth at the festival and we will be giving out some Padres promotional items. You can also visit one of the tallest holiday trees in San Diego County and enjoy the sounds of the strolling holiday carolers before the parade kicks off at 6 pm. The route starts at Third Avenue and travels from E Street to H Street.

Other Pad Squad events this month include a Season Ticket Relocation Event, Caroling at the Cove, San Diego Nice Guys Christmas @ the Q, and other holiday magic events around the county. Another important event is the Season Ticketholders shareholder meeting on the 15th of December. Beyond just the great food at this event, it is also an opportunity for season ticket holders to hear firsthand the Padres plans for the future. I hope to see many of you at some of these events.

How to apply for the Pad Squad:

The Pad Squad off-season also includes the process of adding team members to the Squad. Probably the most asked question of current Pad Squad members is "How does a person become a part of the Pad Squad?" Well the process of drafting new "front-line ambassadors" is well underway. But it is not too late to for you to get your chance to be drafted.

To start the process, interested applicants should send a résumé and a clever cover letter to anyone in the Entertainment & Production Department or Human Resource Department. These two departments then take and read all the applications and then select a few to invite to participate in a few rounds of interviews.

The first round of interviews are group interviews in which 8-10 applicants meet with Padres staff for an opportunity to begin to get to know the applicant. Basic discussion questions allow the Padres staff to get a sense of the applicants personality and also test the applicant's knowledge of some baseball basics. We call this first round Sabermetrics 101.

The last couple of rounds of interviews are individual interviews. A variety of topics are discussed during these last couple rounds, but they all revolve around finding if the applicant would be a good fit on the Squad.

Many people have already applied, and I am sure many more will. I will say that sometimes it takes more than 1 or 2 years of interviewing to get an opportunity to be drafted onto the Squad. So if you have a desire to join the Squad, don’t hesitate to forward your résumé.

A few other important upcoming dates:

San Diego Padres FanFest will be held on Saturday, February 13th @ Petco Park.

Pitchers and Catchers report to spring training on February 18th, with the frist game on March 4th.

The Padres open their season on the road April 5th against the Arizona Diamdbacks and come back for the home opener on Monday, April 12th against the Atlanta Braves.

Happy Holidays!

PSA from PSA are Public Service Announcements from Pad Squad Andre. PSA keeps Gaslamp Ballers informed of happenings that we should know about if we are to spend more time with Pad Squad Andre.-Dex

“There are no speed limits on the road to excellence.”

Unknown

A day off is a good day for a PSA update.

It has been a busy couple of weeks for the Pad Squad. Not only are we taking the time to do interviews, unlike Tom Brady, we are also doing all we can to reach out to Padres fans. 

Some of these events have been the Chula Vista Little League Celebration at Southwestern College, Jr. Padres Field Day, and Chris & Liz Young Back-to-School Event. The Young’s event was very exciting. Over 125 disadvantaged students attended this special event at the Mission Valley Target store, where they distributed backpacks filled with back-to-school supplies. The students also got to shop for back-to-school outfits with Padres players and front office employees. This was the third year the Young family put on this event, and each year it gets better and better.

It seemed like the games from this last homestand also seemed to get better and better. Knowing the Rockies were coming to town meant that the Padres were destined for exciting finishes and extra innings. I think fans pack a little extra food to bring into Petco on games that we play the Rockies. Just in case we go 22 again.

What I enjoy most about this young Padres team is that you can tell that they are having fun out there. And a think a lot of that attitude is rubbing off on the fans. All homestand fans were very excited to be at the ballpark. We had a lot of birthdays and anniversaries and even a couple of engagements including one of our own, Pad Squad Rachel. And as many of you know, she said yes.

On Sunday game, I got the unique opportunity to shag balls in the outfield during the Long Ball Bombers Finals. If you know me well, you know that I bring my glove to the ballpark every day just hoping for someone to tell me to go to the outfield to play. And Sunday, I got the call up. I loved every minute of it. I missed a couple of them, but in the end I think I did pretty well. My family had come down that day to celebrate my birthday, and at one point my son kept asking my sister, “Where will my dad hit in the lineup?” Oh the imagination of a six year old.

Yesterday’s day game was also very exciting. Many of the Padres fans seem to enjoy the speed element of this ballclub. For the fans who have not seen him in person, Luis Durango’s speed is something every Padres fan must see before the end of the year. The way that Durango used his super speed to get on base yesterday was awesome to watch in person. In the ninth inning of the game, I got the chance to ring the rally bell. Then guess what happened. The Padres rallied. Now, I am not one for superstition, but maybe we should add rally bell ringer to my responsibilities.   

Anyway, that is a quick update of the happenings of PSA.

By the way, this Saturday night will be movie night at Park @ the Park. Pad Squad will be there, so we hope to see all of you out there.

PSA from PSA are Public Service Announcements from Pad Squad Andre. PSA keeps Gaslamp Ballers informed of happenings that we should know about if we are to spend more time with Pad Squad Andre.-Dex

Where Go the Boats?
by Robert Louis Stevenson

Dark brown is the river, 
       Golden is the sand. 
It flows along for ever, 
       With trees on either hand. 

Green leaves a-floating, 
       Castles of the foam, 
Boats of mine a-boating-- 
       Where will all come home? 

On goes the river 
       And out past the mill, 
Away down the valley, 
       Away down the hill. 

Away down the river, 
       A hundred miles or more, 
Other little children 
       Shall bring my boats ashore.

Robert Louis Stevenson is one of my favorite authors. This poem of his always reminds me of long, fun summer days.

It has been nice to see many of you at the ballpark over the weekend. Gaslamp Ball has had a very nice presence all year, but it seemed like everyone came out this weekend. And what an exciting weekend to be out at the ballpark.

It was great to have all the Cub Scouts at the game on Friday night. The Padres have had a Scout Night for many years, offering discount tickets and a commemorative patch for those attending the ballgame. This year, they invited the youngsters to bring their sleeping bags, too. Jbox beat me to the punch and you can read more about the excitement on his post. Scouts are known for their resilient spirit, and the Padres took after their example and had a great comeback win. Friday night also marked the return of Friar Race, which if you have not seen them yet, are hilarious.  

The talk around Petco for most of this weekend was about trades and the return of a Hall of Famer. Newly acquired Clayton Richard made his first start on Saturday night. I mentioned to a couple people how nice it is see a good left hander on the mound for the Padres. When Young comes back in the next few weeks, it will be nice to run Young and Richards out back to back. I love baseball players who did two sports in college. Both Young and Richards were two sports stars in college along with outfielder Will Venable.

This weekend also marked the return of Fiesta Con Los Padres. If you have not attended this event yet, be sure to mark it on your calendar for next year. There are always great food and giveaways.

There is a full week of home games left in this homestand. The Braves and the Mets come into town, which will make it very exciting. This weekend will be Hall of Fame weekend at Petco. Fans will get to see a HOF tribute for Dick Williams and Rickey Henderson. I was very impressed with Rickey Hall of Fame speech, and will be excited for the Padres salute to Rickey’s amazing career.

Hope to see you all at Petco this week, and if you see me please say hello.

PSA from PSA are Public Service Announcements from Pad Squad Andre. PSA keeps Gaslamp Ballers informed of happenings that we should know about if we are to spend more time with Pad Squad Andre. -Dex

"It doesn't matter who my father was; it matters who I remember he was."

~ Anne Sexton, an influential 20th Century American poet and writer 

I did not want Father’s Day to pass without wishing the GLB’ers a Happy Father’s Day. I have not seen Dex and Elliott much this season, but I hope I do in second half of the season. Let me also be the first to say Happy 21st birthday to Jon. I am glad he finally will join the ranks of those who are able to drink a beer at Petco.

Over the last 10 days I have seen a lot of Padres baseball. I was able to catch the games in Anaheim and then all the games at Petco this week. I thought I might catch you all up on some of my thoughts from the last 10 days.

10. Every time I have the opportunity to visit another ballpark, I fall deeper in love with Petco Park. Recently, the thing I appreciate most is how “value centered” the fan experience is at Petco. If you are patient enough, you usually can find street parking near the park. Then tickets can be as low as $5 or even if you end up spending $12 on upper deck seats, they throw in a free coke and hot dog. Up in Anaheim, I had a rough time finding a deal on anything. $8 for parking, $14 for cheap tickets, $6 for a hot dog. Apparently, the Recession never hit Anaheim.

9. Hitting the pitcher 8th. In Nebraska, we call this TRICKERATION. Some love it, some hate it. At the end of the day, the game of baseball is all about trying new things and seeing if they work.

8. Day games are my favorite. Especially mid-week day games. People skip out of work, throngs of kid’s camps line the upper deck, and 2 for 1 hot dogs. It is hard not to have a good time in the midst of the San Diego sun, the harbor breezes, and the freshly cut green grass.  I was hoping to buy the GLB’ers a lemonade, but never saw them this week. Maybe next time.

7. The strange things that happen at the ballpark. Sometime, I would like to see GLB do a list of the 50 strangest things people have seen at Petco and list for Qualcomm. I am not just talking about poorly sung national anthems or badly pitched 1st pitches. For example, strange like a fan in the Toyota Terrace this week reached out over the railing to grab a foul ball, he caught it then did a flip over the railing, landed on his head, and still held onto the ball. A few minutes later, the EMT took him out of the stadium, and he was still holding on to the foul ball.

6. First game jitters. I am not just talking about my niece's first baseball game ever on Saturday. But things like seeing Kyle Blanks get his first major league hit, and then on Sunday score his first run. Events like that is why baseball was created. It launches dreams of exciting possibilities this Padres’ team has in store for us in the future.

5. Left-handed gloves. Sunday was glove giveaway day at Petco. My nephew is a left hander, and he was able to receive his first glove from the Padres on Father's Day. First, he got a right-handed glove at Gaslamp Gate, but was able to trade it in at that same gate for a left-hander’s glove. I learned that each gate at Petco has boxes of left handed gloves for the kids. All they need to do is ask the event crew at the gate for one.

I think I appreciate the Sunday giveaways a lot more after going to the Sunday game in Anaheim. I was expecting some type of giveway for kids, since they call it Family Sundays. But unfortunately, there was no giveaway at the gate for kids, instead they have a small section in the outfield for them to do “family activities.” This included a coloring sheet, a painting sheet, a Wii Baseball game (30 minute wait for 1 swing) and a smiley faced sand art project. After the top for the sand art broke and multi-colored sand spilled out in my car on the way home, I declared Family Sunday at Angel Stadium the worst idea ever.

4. Ruby’s Milk Shake’s. I love a good milk shake. On Saturday night, a fan bought me a strawberry milk shake from the Ruby’s concession stand near 108. HEAVEN ON EARTH.

3.  The Speed of these Padres. Gwynn and Cabrera are so fast in person. I think they are faster then they even realize sometimes. But if they are able to figure it out, like Dave Roberts was able to do in the past, the Padres will be very exciting to watch.

2. Padres’ Padres. On Sunday for Father’s Day, the Fathers of many of the Padres’ players threw a ceremonial first pitch to their son. Tony pitched to Tony. Kooz pitched to Kooz. It was pretty cool see not only how excited the fathers were, but also how excited the players were to have their heroes on the field. Even the Friar’s Father came out for the game.

1. Salute to the Negro League’s Night. This is also one of my favorite nights of the year. Getting to see the legends of the game come to Petco and be celebrated. It was also extra special for some fans because the Padres’ Foundation sold the game-worn and autographed #42 jerseys that were worn earlier this year.  

 HAPPY PADRES' DAY TO ALL!

PSA from PSA are Public Service Announcements from Pad Squad Andre. PSA keeps Gaslamp Ballers informed of happenings that we should know about if we are to spend more time with Pad Squad Andre. -Dex

"Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will."
- Mahatma Gandhi

What a weekend. Sometimes, it is when you least expect that life long memories are created. You would think after so many years coming to Petco, I better understand how this great game of baseball can be so special.

This weekend started with Teachers Appreciation Night. My son’s mother is a teacher, so Friday was an extra special night for our family. They sat in the AM/PM All-U-Can-Eat seats. They had a whole lot of fun and were very impressed with the seats, all the food (probably too much food for Little C) and were happy for the 7th inning rally that pushed the Padres to victory.

For many of the Padres, Saturday started early with the 14th Annual Celebration of Champions event at the Embarcadero. This event celebrates the heroic efforts of children with cancer, as well as their families and health care professionals. Funds raised support Rady Children's Hospital Cancer Care Center, and programs providing emotional support and other assistance to the children and their families through the course of illness, treatment and recovery.

The event consisted of children with cancer, along with sponsors, family members, and many of our San Diego Padres Team Members, performed an Olympic-style relay passing the "Torch of Life" from one to another.  After the event, many participants came out for a ceremony before the game on Saturday. I got the great opportunity to facilitate this ceremony, as I have for many year previously. Each year, I am encouraged by the remarkable spirit and determination of all who are involved in this event. Many of the players, that were unable to make the morning event, came out before the game and gave out autographs to complete the children’s Padres collection.

Also on Saturday night, the Padres celebrated the employees that have worked 5, 10, 15, or 20 years with the organization. These employees included many pivotal front office employees and also the seasonal employees who date back to the great Padres years at the Q. As I watched the ceremony; I was once again impressed with the new ownership's commitment to really becoming part of the Padres family by appreciating those who have been the foundation of this organization for many years.  

I was especially impressed with new Padres President & COO Tom Garfinkel. Throughout the weekend, I observed Mr. Garfinkel working hard to get to know many of the seasonal employees who he might not have met yet. I also observed him talking with many fans and working very hard to get to know the grassroots of this Padres community. Throughout this season, many fans have become optimistic about the future of the Padres. I am proud to say I share their optimism when I see the values of our front office working to better the Padres community on a daily basis.

Saturday night not only included a great giveaway in the 6-pack cooler, but also some free baseball: 16 innings. I love how every time we are tied in the ninth at Petco, many fans start to tell their stories of extra innings baseball. And many of those stories include where and how they experienced the 22 inning game that some believed was the demise of the team last year. What I find interesting is that that 22 inning game is a badge of honor for Padres fans, and memories that many wouldn't trade.

I enjoyed the extra innings with 10-15 kids in right field who outlasted around 31,000 other fans and created some Major League Memories for themselves.

Sometimes after midnight, it just takes a mix of a few "Let's Go Padres" signs, a few "Go Padres" chants, and a Hundley home run to create a badge of honor that included a win this time.

Other times it just takes Jake Peavy. Sunday was highlighted by a complete game gem by the Padres Ace. After using almost every one in the bullpen the previous night, we needed a good performance from our #1. Instead he gave us nine amazing innings of great pitching. Mixing finesse pitching with power pitching is a combination that will truly prove to be a competitive advantage to Peavy for many years. My family and I are always grateful to be able to watch great performances in person, and Sunday was one of those memorable games at Petco.

After the off day on Monday, the Padres will be continuing this homestand with the Giants and the Cubs. I look forward to the major league memories that are in store for the rest of this week. And hopefully, I see many of you GLB’ers this week.

PSA from PSA are Public Service Announcements from Pad Squad Andre. PSA keeps Gaslamp Ballers informed of happenings that we should know about if we are to spend more time with Pad Squad Andre. -Dex

“Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear - not absence of fear. So many look to eradicate fear from their lives, when that is an impossible task. You can certainly experience moments in absence of fear, however accept that fear will be with you whenever you are in the process of living creatively. The challenge is to go ahead regardless, simply notice the feeling and manage being courageous.” 

 -Mark Twain

April is finally here. And the days of fools has also passed. So the next exciting event of the year is the opening to the Major League Baseball season. If you are anything like me, this time of year, I begin to day dream about the Game. I sit up at night dreaming of home runs and pitching duels. I get a little fearful for the unknown that the year will bring, but exciting for the new things I will get to be a part of at Petco.

Tomorrow, San Diego fans will get their first look of the new team in Petco in a game vs. the Angels.  This will also be fans opportunity to meet the new look Pad Squad. New faces along with new Petco promotions should make this year very exciting. All Pad Squad members and mascots have renewed their sling shot and t-shirt cannon certification for the new year. With our ’09 Spring Training completed, the Pad Squad is set for the excitement of a new season.

For the fans coming to the ballpark on Friday, please stop and introduce yourself to the Pad Squad. This is the only time this year the Angels will be visiting Petco, so for all of you Southern California rivalry fans, it is time for the Padres to defend their home territory. In the Arizona spring training games vs. the Angels, there have been a ton of home runs hit by both teams. So heads up to everybody sitting in the outfield and the beachers.

Saturday night the Pad Squad will be going around different San Diego eateries promoting the new season.  We will be visiting Old Town, Mission Valley, College Area and Downtown restaurants handing out promotional items and ’09 schedules. Hopefully, I will see some Gaslampballers out on Saturday night.

Sunday is Padres Fan Day. Friar Fest was always a lot of fun, but by stretching it out over a couple of days, some fans were not able to get the autographs that they really wanted. This year, the Padres will all be out on one day. The team will work out and then sign autographs from 1:30 to 2:30pm.  There also will be the Padres Foundation Garage Sale. The Padres Foundation has had volunteers working very hard to assemble some amazing items for fans to purchase. If past experience has been any testament to this year, I would suggest hitting up the Garage Sale early and often during the day.  

Then on Monday is Opening Day. Opening Day is better than Christmas to me. Probably because I get to share it with 42,000 people instead just a few friends and family.  The game starts @ 4, so hopefully we can go without the Chinese Tea for opening day. Again, for all those attending the game, don’t forget to be wearing your Gaslampball shirts to the game.  For everyone else, don't forget to visit the Padres' Fan Value Corner and schedule your next Major League Memory.

Go Padres!

PSA from PSA are Public Service Announcements from Pad Squad Andre. PSA keeps Gaslamp Ballers informed of happenings that we should know about if we are to spend more time with Pad Squad Andre. -Dex

If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.
       -- Anne Bradstreet

After finishing my annual spring training trip to the great state of AZ, I thought it would be nice to post a PSA for those who will also be making a trip this spring.

In usual GLB style, and a first for a PSA, the top 10 things to do on a trip to Peoria.

10.  Instead of keeping score, record the 7 unique lines the beer vendors say during each inning of the game.

                        i.e. Inning 1-  "have no fear, your beer is here"

9.      Have your five year old son sell out to the "men in blue" by promising never to argue balls and strikes again for a foul ball. Good hint for those who have kids, have the kids get the "Kids Meal", which includes a regular size ballpark hot dog, chips and a drink for $3.50- Best Concessions Deal. The stadium does have good concessions. My favorite was the grill out beyond right field. This is also a good place to get some shade during the game.

8.   Bring your gloves to the game. Then no matter where your seats are in Peoria, go out  to the lawn and play catch sometime during one of the middle innings.

7.      Stop off at Target before the game. There is one next to the ballpark on 83rd and Bell.  Get all the sunflower seeds and waters your can fit into your soft cooler.

6.      Leave Target out the east side, behind the garden center. There lies the best "Baseball Starbucks" in the world. Ask for Amy, and she will hook you up with a special "2 shot iced vanilla latte."  Personally, I am not a coffee person, but how could I turn down the "Padres’ Iced Latte."  Then turn left Paradise Road and park in the East parking lot. After the game, it is the fast way out of the facility.

5.      Watch the Scouts sitting in Section 100 argue over how fast Nick Schmidt is really pitching. I also suggest sitting in section 114 Row E or F. I think it is the best section, and it is usually available.

4.       Have dinner at Barrio Café in Phoenix. It is about 45 minutes from the ballpark, but it has some of the greatest food in the world.

3.      Talk with one of the Peoria "Red Shirts" Diamond Club Volunteers. Figure out where they are from and what they like best about their job.

2.      Get some signatures! Many people wait in line at the fence for autographs. But I think the best place for Padres’ autographs is actually up the 1st base foul line, while they warm up.

1.      Print off the Padres' and the opponent’s full roster including the non-roster invitees if you can get it. It makes life a whole lot easier.

Overall, my family and I had a great time in AZ.  We were able to see Padres vs. Cubs, Padres vs. Brewers, Padres vs. Dodgers, and finally Cubs vs. Indians.

Peavy looked very good pitching the first three innings of the Cubs game. My favorite part was seeing him jumping into the batters box and taking a few swings. I also enjoyed watching Ryan Dempster's unique pitching windup.

The next day, we were disappointed not to get to see Hoffman and Cameron come back to Peoria. But the game was interesting. The crowd was only around 2,100, so the players could hear everything that was being said in the crowd. Braun and Fielder are legit.

The Dodgers game was highlighted by my son taunting the Dodgers, and knowing the Dodgers could actually hear what he was saying. We also were able to watch Tommy Lasorda fall asleep for almost two innings.  When he was not sleeping, he was very nice and talked with many of the fans. He seems to be very excited about the WBC Finals being at Dodger Stadium.

Finally, my family makes it a point every year to go to a Spring Training Facility that we have not been to before. We were able to go to the Indians new facility in Goodyear, AZ. Very unique stadium. Very clean ballpark with a great team store that had a unique variety of items. We are not fans of the Tribe, but ended up buying some Tribe stuff anyway. They had HOF Bob Feller out signing autographs for a price. It was a little too expensive of a price for us, but some might like it.

Spring training is great and it has a purpose, but I am ready for the competitive atmosphere of PETCO. I am looking forward to the WBC and then Opening Day vs. the Dodgers.

PSA from PSA are Public Service Announcements from Pad Squad Andre. PSA keeps Gaslamp Ballers informed of happenings that we should know about if we are to spend more time with Pad Squad Andre. -Dex

Simone Weil:

 "The love of our neighbor in all its fullness simply means being able to say,

                  "What are you going through?’ "

Many of you have seen the Public Service Announcements featuring Padres players and alumni encouraging kids and parents to be more active and make healthier food choices.

In 2008, the San Diego Padres established a new fitness initiative, FriarFit, in collaboration with the San Diego Childhood Obesity Initiative, The California Endowment (a statewide health foundation), and SportService (PETCO Park concessionaire).

FriarFit's long-term goal is to improve the health and fitness of San Diegans. FriarFit is a multi-tiered program, but I thought it would be interesting to hightlight just a couple of items fans can look forward to in the coming 2009 season.

1. Instant Recess: Sunday afternoon games are often highlighted by the many children that come out to the ballpark. Prior to every Sunday home game, at noon during the season, the Padres, including the Padres Alumni, Pad Squad, Padres Event Crew  and many front office personnel conduct a FriarFit Instant Recess fitness break out at the Park at the Park. The sessions, open to children and adults, begins at noon and often feature guest leaders.

Dr. Toni Yancey, Professor and Co-Director of the Center to Eliminate Health Disparities at UCLA School of Public Health, has produced a 10-minute exercise session set to music and featuring the voices of Hall of Famer Dave Winfield and Padres first baseman Adrian Gonzalez. A more extensive DVD version is in production and scheduled for release early in Spring of 2009.

2. Healthier Food Options: The Padres and SportService have worked very hard to add more healthy food options at PETCO Park. Ten concession items were added or upgraded on the menu, improving the nutritional value and availability of healthier food choices at the ballpark.

If you are anything like Dex, jbox and many other fans more ballpark food options are very appealing.

The Padres are committed to making a meaningful and enduring impact on youth in the areas of health, education and baseball/softball. Especially when times are rough in the community, the Padres are responding the health issues that many youth in the San Diego Community are going through today.

"Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end."

            -Seneca, Roman Philosopher, mid-1st century AD and Closing Time by Semisonic

This time of year is very exciting for everyone who loves baseball. The start of spring training signals the countdown to a new Padres season at Petco. I have learned, as I have grown older, that new seasons are never like the previous ones that I have been able to experience.

A new Padres season also means changes to the Pad Squad. This year, many beloved Pad Squad members will be retiring their jerseys for exciting new opportunities. All of them will be missed. Their hard work, love for the game, and care for the Padres fans will be hard to replace. 

The process of finding new talent for the Pad Squad is in full swing. During the season, many fans ask about the Pad Squad selection process. The process begins with a new year which is marked by the many bright, passionate Pad Squad hopefuls who have sent in their résumé to the Padres Entertainment Department and are on their journey to the Big Dance.

Surprisingly to some, the Pad Squad selection process is nothing like American Idol. The expert Padres staff begins by holding group interviews with potential Pad Squad hopefuls. The staff looks for unique individuals who align with the Padres Mission to provide exceptional entertainment value to every guest at every Petco Park event while fostering organizational and community pride. 

From the group interviews, the Padres staff selects a few hopefuls who get the opportunity for an individual interview. The staff is looking for people who match the values of the Padres organization. These values include, but are not limited to: compassionate leadership, integrity, innovation, passion for the community and a winning attitude. The Padres staff also looks for individuals that will have the ability and confidence to connect with the great Padres fans.

Finally, the Padres staff looks at the chemistry of the Squad as a team. Using what they have gathered from the selection process, the staff discusses the role each individual candidate would have on the Squad.

Once the new members are selected, returning member of the Squad work with the Padres staff to get them orientated and ready for the season. And yes this includes, extensive slingshot conditioning and t-shirt cannon launching certification.

We are gearing up for a great season at Petco Park and can’t wait to see the fans we have missed over the winter months.