The World's Largest Video Screen, Arlington, Texas

Texas vs Nebraska Big 12 Championship Game Dec 5, 2009, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

The giant HDTV screen in the new Dallas Cowboys Stadium spans a total of 11,200 square feet. Taken at the Big 12 Championship Game between Texas and Nebraska. December 5, 2009.

Dallas Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, Texas, Big 12 Championship Game, December 5, 2009

Cowboys Stadium, Big 12 Championship Game, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

This image taken by Rebecca A Smith from the parking lot of the new football "palace" in Arlington, TX. December 5, 2009. Texas vs Nebraska.

Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio

Paul Brown Stadium from Ohio River, Cincy, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

This unique view of Paul Brown Stadium, home of the Bengals, was taken from the banks of the Ohio River. By Gary P Smith, May, 2004.

Soldier Field, Chicago IL

Soldier Field, Chicago IL, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Front facade of Soldier Field, Chicago. This stadium sits at the edge of Lake Michigan. Taken from the car. Traffic was too bad to stop and jump out and back in. Circa 2002, by Gary P Smith.

B-25 Pre-Game Flyover of Kyle Field

B-25 flyover of Kyle Field Sept 26, 2009, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

This vintage WWII B-25 bomber flew over Kyle Field before the start of the game between Texas A&M and UAB on September 26, 2009. The B-25's image is captured on the jumbotron as seen from our seats in the north end zone. The aircraft is based in Galveston, TX, at the Lone Star Flight Museum.

The "People" side of baseball. Michael Coffin, Corpus Christi Hooks.

Whataburger Field. The "People" side of baseball. Michael Coffin, Media Relations., originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Michael, in Media Relations with the Hooks, was my tour guide for the day at Whataburger Field. Thanks Michael!

Whataburger Field, Corpus Christi, TX

Port Avenue Main Entrance, Whataburger Field., originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

This imposing figure embellishes the main entrance to the ball park on East Port Avenue. The statue represents an unknown baseball player, symbolic of baseball's national appeal.

Whataburger Field and Harbor Bridge, Corpus Christi, TX

Whataburger Field and Harbor Bridge, Corpus Christi, TX, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

The scoreboard, the USS Lexington, an old cotton press, and the Harbor Bridge dot the landscape of Whataburger Field in Corpus Christi. The Corpus Christi Hooks are a Class AA team in the Texas League, affiliated with the NL Houston Astros.

Forever Oilers, Luv Ya Blue

Houston Oiler's Charlie Hennigan First Oiler Touchdown, 1960, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Charlie Hennigan's inscription on a miniature Oiler helmet commemorating his first touchdown catch in 1960.

Autozone Park Entrance, Published in Schmap Memphis Guide.

Autozone Park Entrance, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

This photo of the entrance to Auto Zone Park, in downtown Memphis, TN, was recently selected for inclusion in the newly released (August, 2009) eighth edition of the "Schmap Memphis Guide." Taken by Gary P Smith, July, 2007.

Dr Pepper Ballpark, Frisco, TX

Dr Pepper Ballpark, Frisco, TX, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

A view of the ballpark's unique design. Taken by Rebecca A Smith, August, 2009.

Dr Pepper Ballpark, Frisco, TX

Dr Pepper Ballpark, Frisco, TX, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Home plate entrance of Dr Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, TX. Named best new ballpark in the country by BaseballParks.com., 2003. Home of the Frisco Rough Riders, Class AA. Taken by Rebecca A Smith, August, 2009.

PNC Park, Pittsburgh

PNC, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Outfield bleachers and bull pen area. July, 2009.

Dell Diamond, Round Rock, TX, Revisited

Dell Diamond, Revisited, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Front facade entrance view from East Palm Valley Blvd. My sincere gratitude goes out to Deborah Coughlin, Controller, for all of the information regarding the updated aspects of The Dell Diamond. Truly a unique experience in family entertainment. August, 2009.

Dell Diamond, Round Rock, TX, Revisited

Dell Diamond, Revisited, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

This clever display caught my eye. Taken by Gary P Smith. August, 2009.

Dell Diamond, Round Rock, TX, Revisited

Dell Diamond, Revisited, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

New luxury suites for 2009 can be seen behind home plate beyond the dugout. This new third story addition represents one of the few areas of the stadium that is air-conditioned.

Dell Diamond, Round Rock, TX, Revisited

Dell Diamond, Revisited, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

I have been to this ballpark a number of times, but some new additions warranted another look. The "Home Run Porch" in left field is new. Also, a "catwalk" from the main concourse to the new section is new for 2009.

Edward Charles "Whitey" Ford

TriStar Jan 2004 012, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Whitey spent his entire 18-year career with the New York Yankees. I took this picture at TriStar show in Houston in January of 2004. Extremely polite guy.

Reliant Stadium, Astrodome, Houston, TX

Picture 152, originally uploaded by scalpelorsword.

I came across this image while browsing Flickr member's uploads. It's a great shot. Many in Houston have seen the contrast between the two stadiums, but this panoramic view is unlike any others. The Astrodome is a part of Houston's rich history, while Reliant Stadium represents it's visionary future.

Pohlman Field, Beloit, WI

Pohlman Field02, originally uploaded by BigMak1747.

We visited this park around 2002. It's the home of the Beloit Snappers, who are a Class A team affiliated with the Minnesota Twins. We saw Prince Fielder play the night we went. I wouldn't go out of my way to go there again.

"Game Day"

PNC, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

It's off to the races at PNC Park. At Miller Park in Milwaukee, the Sausages race. In Pittsburgh, the former Presidents square off against each other. It's all great fun, whatever park you're in. Taken by Gary P Smith. July, 2009.

Heinz Field, Home of the Super Bowl Champion Steelers

Heinz Field, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Also from Mount Washington. Breath taking view. Stunning. Taken by Gary P Smith. July 31, 2009.

Pittsburgh from Mount Washington

Mount Washington, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

We took a train up the side of Mount Washington (it's called the "Monongahela Incline") to capture this breathtaking view. USA Today rated this cityscape view from Mount Washington as the second best in America. Forbes Traveler's puts this view in the top thirteen "Most stunning city skylines" in the world. Taken by Gary P Smith, July 31, 2009.

Roberto Clemente Statue, PNC Park, Pittsburgh

Roberto Clemente, PNC Park, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

The statue of this Pirate Icon sits outside the ball park at the left field entrance at the end of the Allegheny River Bridge, which is closed off during game day for the public to walk across the river to the stadium. It has a special significance for me, for as a teenager, Clemente signed my Colt .45 program at the old Colt Stadium in Houston, TX. I visited PNC on July 31, 2009. Picture taken by me.

PNC Park, Pittsburgh, PA

PNC, Rated #1, USA Today, ESPN, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

PNC Park is the home of the NL Pittsburgh Pirates. Not much of a winning record in the last few decades, but their ball park is rated the best ball park in America by USA Today and ESPN.com. No argument here. Taken by Gary P Smith on July 31, 2009.

AT&T Center San Antonio, TX

AT&T Center San Antonio, TX, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Home of the NBA San Antonio Spurs. A massive complex. Abundant parking. Reminded me a little bit of the Houston Astrodome. Taken by Gary P Smith.

Carlos "El Caballo" Lee's Locker

El Caballo, Carlos Lee, Lee's Locker, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

This is a picture of Astro's left fielder Carlos Lee's locker, taken during a public clubhouse tour. The tour coincided with a recent promotion featuring the stick horse pictured at Lee's cubicle. Taken by Gary P Smith, 2007.

Codes of Conduct: "My Eyes Adored You", Frankie Valli

GAP 5-21-04 057, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

"Guests will refrain from displays of affection not appropriate in a public family setting." Notice the lineups on the scoreboard. Houston at Cincinnatti. Taken by Gary P Smith, May, 2004. Clemens is shelled early at the Great American Ball Park.

"Holy Toledo!" It's Milo Hamilton and Gary P Smith

Milo Hamilton and Gary P Smith, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

I asked Milo about a story that I had heard about him (Milo) and the famous Harry Caray, while both were broadcasters for the Cubs. The two were not the best of friends. Caray once told Milo that the fans at Wrigley really came to hear him sing during the 7th inning. Milo replied: "Well, tomorrow is an off day, so let's announce that you'll be singing at 2 PM, and let's see how many show up." Milo confirmed to me that this was indeed a true story. (Pic 2004). Houston, TX.

Gary P Smith and Bill Brown

Gary P Smith and Bill Brown, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Gary with Bill Brown, of Fox SW Houston. About 2004.

Las Vegas Strip from MGM Grand Hotel Room

Las Vegas Strip from MGM Grand Hotel Room, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

My favorite Vegas picture. Taken from our suite at the new wing of the MGM Grand. Note the Danny Gans marquee at The Mirage. Great view of the Strip. 11-2008.

Joe Montana at Tri-Star Sports Collectable Show

P1010005, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

This picture was taken by Gary P Smith at the George R Brown in Houston at a TRI-STAR production. Montana is a member of the NFL Hall of Fame. Circa 2004.

Mike Ditka and Gary P Smith, Ditka's, Chicago

Mike Ditka and Gary P Smith, Ditka's, Chicago, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

This was taken at Ditka's restaurant in Chicago. Mr. Ditka was doing a syndicated radio show, and had just finished. My friend, Ray, had told the waiter that I would like to meet him, and he came over to our table after his show. Very personable, very cordial. We ordered the "Kick Ass Ribeye" from the menu. Circa 2002.

"I'm at WKRP in Cincinnati." Paul Brown Stadium

GAP 5-21-04 006, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

From Covington, Ohio, the bridge to downtown Cincinnati spans the Ohio River with the skyine and Paul Brown Stadium, home of the Bengals since 2004, in the background. "Baby, if you've ever wondered, Wondered whatever became of me, I'm living on the air in Cincinnati, Cincinnati, WKRP."

Nelson W Wolff Stadium, San Antonio, TX, Home of the Texas League San Antonio Missions

Nelson W Wolff Municipal Stadium, San Antonio, TX Front, Facade, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

This was a ball park enthusiast's dream. The club's general administrative offices are located here as well, and a secretary let me in and I had the park to myself. This shot of the entrance is probably the most recognizable feature of the ball park. The Missions are a class AA affiliate of the San Diego Padres. Taken July 2009 by Gary P Smith.

The "People" side of Baseball. Bill Gerlt. San Antonio Missions

Bill Gerlt, Asst. General Manager, San Antonio Missions, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

I had the opportunity recently to visit Nelson W Wolff Stadium in San Antonio, TX, home of the Texas League (AA, Padres) San Antonio Missions. Bill Gerlt, Asst. General Manager of the Missions, was kind enough to open the gift shop for me and talk baseball for about a half hour. He has 15 years with the franchise and a wealth of knowledge. Very nice ball park. Thanks Billy!

"CENTERFIELD" by John C. Fogerty (1985)

Minute Maid Park Ground Level from Center Field, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

"Well, beat the drum and hold the phone - the sun came out today! We're born again, there's new grass on the field." (Lyrics by John C. Fogerty). This pic taken in 2007 laying on the edge of center field and the dirt warning track at Minute Maid Park, Houston, TX. Stadium Tour.

Craig Biggio, #7, Academy Sports

Biggio--Academy--Jan 2004 002, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

"When you play this game twenty years, go to bat ten- thousand times, and get three- thousand hits, do you know what that means? You've gone zero for seven- thousand." - Pete Rose (Picture taken in January, 2004).

Lakeshore Drive, Skyline

Lakeshore Drive, Skyline 2, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Big cities have incredible "cityscapes", sometimes breath taking. I captured this view while on Lakeshore Drive. (1999-2000).

"26 Time World Champions"

"26 Time World Champions", originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

This is a walkway from a parking garage to the stadium. The "26 Time World Champions" can be seen on the walkway. Taken May 2004.

BIG BAT!

BIG BAT!, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

This picture was taken in May, 2004, in front of Yankee
Stadium. We were told by our friend Larry, who lives in NY, to meet him "under the Big Bat" (in foreground).

A True Baseball Fan

Baseball Fan, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

I've always wondered what a true baseball fan really was. A few years ago I found the answer in Lowes and I purchased the true fan. However, it remains in my former home which was sold in 2005.

Yankee Stadium, Bronx, New York

Yankee Stadium, Bronx, New York, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

The "old" Yankee Stadium, May, 2004. Now on sale piece by piece (2009). This picture was taken from the upper deck behind the third base line. In clear view beyond the outfield wall is Monument Park. Contains monuments, plaques, and retired numbers honoring distinguished players such as Mantle, Gerhig, DiMaggio, and Babe Ruth.

Applebee's Park, Lexington, KY

Applebee's Park, Outfield, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Applebee's Park is actually in a shopping center on the outskirts of downtown Lexington, Kentucky, home of the University of Kentucky and the famous Rupp Arena, also located downtown. Applebee's Park is the home of the Lexington Legends (Class A), an Astro's affiliate. Like the Dell Diamond in Round Rock, Applebee's is a newer, beautiful park. The "Bat" is beyond the outfield fence. Taken 2003.

Comiskey Park, (NEW), Chicago, IL. (2)

Comiskey Park, (NEW), Chicago, IL., originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

One of my favorites. I walked this ballpark for at least an hour or more on two occasions. I took this picture in 2001 standing on the center field concourse. The scoreboard looms in the background. Food and drink was abundant throughout this area. Fantastic experience. Ballpark order: Old Comiskey Park, New Comiskey Park, U.S. Cellular Field (current)

Comiskey Park, Chicago, IL. (1)

Comiskey Park, Chicago, IL., originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

This picture was taken at a game on a bad weather night in South Chicago, in 2001. The ballpark was to become U.S. Cellular Park in 2003. Bill Veeck, former owner of the White Sox, installed this (1960) exploding scoreboard that had fireworks, aerial bombs, and numerous sounds. The dark clouds naturally illuminate the scoreboard. Notice the "toothbrush" style lighting.

Enron Field. Houston, TX, Construction

Enron Field. Houston, TX, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Another in the collection of Gary's Enron construction ruse. Dressed as an architect with a hard hat and clipboard, I strolled unobtrusively throughout the stadium taking pictures at will. 1999.

John Beasley "Jack" Brickhouse (1916-1998), American Sportscaster

Harry Caray (1914-1998), originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Known primarily for his play by play coverage of Chicago Cubs games on WGN-TV from 1948 to 1981. He also covered national events from time to time, including three World Series for NBC television. He was best known for the expression "Hey-hey", and that phrase now vertically adorns the screens on the foul poles at Wrigley Field, pictured above. Taken by Gary P Smith.

Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, MO

Kauffman Stadium, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

The iconic crown is the trademark of Kauffman Stadium. Home of the AL Kansas City Royals. One of the most beautiful ballparks in America.

Mike Ditka's, Downtown Chicago

Mike Ditka's, Downtown Chicago, originally uploaded by Gary P. Smith.

Mike Ditka's restaurant in Chicago. We met Mr. Ditka when we were there, he was doing a remote radio show. A very personable guy. Our menu selection was the "Kick Ass Ribeye." Bone in. Excellent.