Tuesday, July 28, 2009

AT&T Center San Antonio, TX

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

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.

Saturday, July 25, 2009

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

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.

Friday, July 24, 2009

Gary P Smith and Bill Brown

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

Sunday, July 19, 2009

Las Vegas Strip from MGM Grand Hotel Room

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

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.

Saturday, July 18, 2009

"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."

Sunday, July 12, 2009

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

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.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

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

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!