Kristina Ayanian Visits Section 36!

Photo by
Stephanie Vegliante Photography

Section 36 has another visitor! Kristina Ayanian is passionate about thinking globally, a talented pianist, and the current Miss Boston. I was thrilled to be able to visit with her to discuss those topics, and more!

So, let's see what happens when Kristina Ayanian visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Boston crown?

I was so overwhelmed by the support from my family and friends who were waving their hands and cheering for me every time I stepped on stage. They showered me in hugs and flowers after I was crowned. I returned home to pack my bags for a work conference in New York bright and early the next morning! Always on the grind and I’m loving every minute of it!

Is there a specific goal you’d like to accomplish during your time as Miss Boston?

I hope to lead by example. My goal is to help at least one person to find their personal passion project and share their message to the world. I am currently in the process of organizing a Freedom Walk on the Freedom Trail. I aim to unite our community and facilitate social interaction about topics that impact each individual. We unite by sharing our differences and are more alike than we think. By sharing our stories, we will create a ripple effect in communities across Massachusetts, and beyond, to take action in their communities.

As a former Miss Massachusetts’ Outstanding teen, do you think that experience will help you at the Miss Massachusetts competition?

Photo by
Version 2.0 Productions

My experience competing in the Miss America Organization since I was 15 has helped me in every chapter in my life. Competing and holding a teen title has given me the confidence to live every day with an imaginary crown on my head – from college to the real world and everything in between. I am so excited to compete for the state title in June!

How did you select your social impact initiative, “Global Citizenship”?

From a young age, my mom has taught me the value and importance of giving back to our community. I was shocked to learn that our national volunteer rate is currently at a two-decade low. At the heart and soul of my social impact initiative is recognizing that we all play a vital role in creating a culture of humanity and keeping our world sustainable for future generations. Global citizenship starts at the local level – turning the water off while we’re brushing our teeth, making recycling into a habit, holding the door open for the elderly, and using our voice to spread recognition about issues we are passionate about. These are all examples of small steps we can take every day to create a domino effect that will grow to a national then global level. I created the #GlobalCitizenshipPledge and the @CommittedGlobalCitizens Instagram and Facebook page, where I share quotes and stories from global citizens and hope to inspire others to take action. Follow me to take the pledge!

As a talented pianist, what do you like most about performing on stage?

My favorite part about performing is making people happy. When I see a piano in hotel lobbies, in shopping centers, in homes, or on stages I naturally gravitate towards it and start playing. I can’t help myself! Music helps me unwind and mastering new pieces brings a smile to my face. I like bringing that smile to others when I perform.

What is your personal fitness routine?

First and foremost I eat healthy and avoid processed foods.

Photo by
Stephanie Vegliante Photography

I change my fitness routine every gym session, especially for cardio. I rotate between running, jump rope, biking, and the elliptical. I enjoy lifting weights, but since I’ve been dancing from 2 years old, my legs are my strongest muscles and I pride myself on leg days.

Who’s your favorite Red Sox player? Why?

David Ortiz has been an iconic figure in my life since I was a little girl. I grew to admire him even more as I became older because he was more than a legendary baseball player; he was a Boston hero. He brought everyone together during a time when the city needed it most and that resonates with everyone – not just sports fans.

If you had an extra ticket to a Red Sox game at Fenway, who would you bring with you? Why?

My mom’s company has season tickets, and every year when it’s our turn to go to a game, we bring someone who has never seen the Sox live. Nothing compares to seeing the smile on people’s face, both old and young, when they walk into Fenway Park for the first time. I’ll continue to do the same any time I have an extra ticket.

Is there a feature or activity at a game at Fenway that you’d especially like to experience?

I’d love to sing our National Anthem in our historic park or throw a first pitch!

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Those would be wonderful opportunities!

As usual, I want to thank Kristina for visiting and for sending along the fantastic pictures that accompany the interview. They make the post so much better.

As Kristina continues her time as Miss Boston, I encourage you to check out her official Instagram account and Facebook page, as well as her personal Instagram account. It’s the best way to make sure you don’t miss out on everything she’ll have going on. You should also check out her Committed Global Citizens Instagram and Facebook pages to see all the amazing things happening there.

I also want to wish her the best of luck when she competes for the Miss Massachusetts title. It would be wonderful to have another Section 36 visitor wear that crown!

Thanks again Kristina, and good luck!

1975 Topps Page by Page: Page 15 (117-135)

I'm sure that you all remember that I finally completed my 1975 Topps set. 

Now that it's done I thought it would be fun to look through the set and talk about it. Going page by page seemed like a good way to go about it. Hopefully you find it interesting to read what I have to say.

How about we continue with page 15?

Red Sox Cards on the Page:  1. Bill Lee. Bill had a very good regular season in 1975, and had two no-decisions in the historic 1975 World Series.

Cards that make the 1975 Topps set cool: Naturally, 1975 World Series participants are always cool. While Driessen only had two plate appearances in the series, he makes two cards on this page from that series. Also, young cards of Hall of Famers are cool. I'm not sure the Phil Niekro counts as "young" since he was 36 in 1975. But, that did represent the midpoint of his 24-year career.

My favorite card on the page: Have to go with the Niekro. As someone who I remember playing, it's fun to think of him on a card from so long ago. 

What would your answers to those last two categories be?

Emily Grimmius Visits Section 36!

Section 36 has another visitor! Emily Grimmius is passionate about reading, a talented saxophonist, and the current Miss San Joaquin County. I was thrilled she was willing to visit with us and discuss those topics, and a few more!

So, let’s see what happens when Emily Grimmius visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss San Joaquin County crown?

I was SO THRILLED to earn the title of Miss San Joaquin County!  There are a few pictures where I was just screaming along with the amazing friends I came to know throughout competition prep.  I didn't really have words, just excitement.  My brain was pretty "fried" and all I thought was "wow, you did it!"  After pictures, my family was there to support me and congratulate me.  They are invested just as much as I am!  Afterwards, a few of my Miss California Class of 2020 and I went out to celebrate the best way in California; In-N-Out milkshakes!  I'm so grateful for the support of Miss Sierra Nevada, Miss Yosemite Valley, and Miss San Fernando Valley for being true sisters.

Is there a specific goal you’d like to accomplish during your time as Miss San Joaquin County?

There are so many goals I have for my year!  I'm excited to bring my saxophone to the Miss California stage, grow our local Miss San Joaquin County Scholarship Program, advocate for children's literacy in California, and to meet as many people as I possibly can.  If I have to pick one goal, I'm really excited to demonstrate that Miss America values are prevalent in every community through local businesses, daily role models, and our titleholders.  To see how Miss America values are in our communities, visit bit.ly/californiaspearl

What has surprised you the most about your time as Miss San Joaquin County?

Photo by Image Society

The Miss America Organization has received much criticism these past couple years with organization changes, removal of the swimsuit competition, and those who do not believe in the Organization's mission.  Despite this, any time I tell someone I am Miss San Joaquin County, their reaction surprises me every time.  People ask questions, are enthusiastic, and always ask how they can get involved.  I'm inspired daily by this enthusiasm because I know that the amplified voice a title gives young women allows us to enact tangible change in our communities, and earn scholarships for higher education.  I am so proud to be Miss San Joaquin County and love sharing this mission with everyone, whether they are school children I'm reading to or people in the grocery check-out line.

How did you select your social impact initiative, “Read Dream Succeed California™”?

Photo by Image Society

I founded Read Dream Succeed California™ with the simple love of reading.  I was the kid that got in trouble late at night for reading under the covers with a flashlight.  I look at the divisive state of our country, and see business owners struggling to promote their organizations, and children studying to better their socioeconomic status.  Literacy is the common link!  To think critically and solve any problem, the ability to read is paramount.  I'm a titleholder, small business owner, and future lawyer because of my ability to read--and my confidence to pursue my dreams. 61% of San Joaquin County elementary students can't read, 25% of all California students are unable to perform basic reading skills, and 45 million U.S. adults are functionally illiterate--unable to read above a 5th grade level.  But more than anything, I realized many of my classmates from middle and high school didn't believe in their ability to achieve their dreams.  By partnering with the Miss California and Miss America Organizations, I'm excited to spread the effects of the organization while utilizing this platform to help students believe in their dreams and have the ability to achieve them through reading.

(Source: University of the Pacific, California Policy Center, The Literacy Project)

As a talented saxophonist, what do you like most about performing on stage?

Photo by Image Society

My family likes to call me "Professor Emily".  When I start discussion or learning about history, politics, or other subjects I dive in deep and am very passionate.  I spent a lot of time with my nose in a book growing up, but I have a big personality I like to share with the world.  I wanted to play the saxophone because my middle school jazz band was where all the "cool" kids were at.  Playing the saxophone is a bold instrument that takes skill, passion, and personality to play with vigor.  It's absolutely perfect for me, and performing anywhere provides a creative outlet.  In high school I competed in concert band, jazz band, basket ball band, and marching band.  I loved every second of it, and playing a variety of musical genres.  I hope every students gets the chance to pursue a musical education if they desire.  Walking onto the Miss San Joaquin County stage with my sax after years of not performing publicly was the greatest gift I could have received.  I'm thrilled to bring my sax to the Miss California stage and just let go, be myself, and share my love of music with everyone.  

If you could be a Disney character for a week, who would you be? Why?

BELLE!  Growing up I always wanted her library and I was impressed with how she put the unruly Gaston in his place while standing up for herself.  And if you've seen the live-action version, I must say Emma Watson as Belle further inspired me even as an adult.  Belle was the first television or film character that helped me realize a woman can be strong, independent, smart, pretty, really anything she wants to be. 

What is your personal fitness routine?

I currently belong to a gym where I get regular cardio and swimming workouts in.  But my favorite thing to do is dance!  I may not be a classically trained ballerina, but I am having a fabulous time with ballroom dance lessons.  They even teach swing dancing so I'm always prepared any time the country music comes on!  Being both physically and mentally healthy is key, and for me that includes finding a way to have fun while staying fit.

If you had an extra ticket to a Giants - A’s game, who would you bring with you? Why?

I would absolutely bring my brother!  He is definitely my go-to for any sporting event because we have so much fun together.  The best memories in life are made with those you love and are here for you. I couldn't ask for a better Giants-A's game partner!

Is there a feature or activity at a baseball game that you’d especially like to experience?

My favorite thing to do at a baseball game is to eat a box of cracker jacks.  It's silly, but it started when I was a kid thanks to the song "Take Me Out to the Ballgame".  They are absolutely delicious and when do you eat them otherwise?  Moving forward, I would really love to play the Star Spangled Banner on my sax at a game.  Any takers Oakland A's, Giants, Modesto Nuts?  

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I certainly hope she gets that chance!

As usual, I want to thank Emily for visiting and for sending along the wonderful pictures that accompany the interview. They make the post so much better.

As Emily continues her time as Miss San Joaquin County, I encourage you to check out her official Instagram account and Facebook page. It’s the best way to make sure you don’t miss out on everything she’ll have going on.

I also want to wish her the best of luck when she competes for the Miss California title. It would be great to have the first Section 36 visitor wear that crown!

Thanks again Emily, and good luck!

1975 Topps Page by Page: Page 14 (118-126)

I'm sure that you all remember that I finally completed my 1975 Topps set. 

Now that it's done I thought it would be fun to look through the set and talk about it. Going page by page seemed like a good way to go about it. Hopefully you find it interesting to read what I have to say.

How about we continue with page 14?

Red Sox Cards on the Page:  0. I mean, yeah, there should be lots of shutouts.

Cards that make the 1975 Topps set cool: Nothing super-cool about this particular page. But, I always find vintage checklist cards neat. They don't show up in sets these days, and it always reminds me that I'm looking at something old.

My favorite card on the page: Right there in the center. While it's obviously not game action, I can't quite tell if this is "action action" or "posed action". But, either way it's great to see a card of The Mad Hungarian Al Habrosky staring someone down mid-windup. 

What would your answers to those last two categories be?

Another Sale? Perfect!

OK. Things are weird. There's no baseball. You're staying home as much as humanly possible. You're doing the right thing. But, how are you passing the time? Maybe you paint your living room? Maybe you sweep out the porch? Maybe you clean out your closet?

When you do that, are you finding your wardrobe lacking? Like it could use some fresh threads? Like the wonderful gear from Section 36! Well, today's the perfect day to think that because it's all on SALE!

That's right! Today through Sunday, the Section 36 store will be on sale! Don't miss this opportunity! 

So, head over right now and select something that you like. But, don't delay. Remember, the sale only runs through Sunday! Only a few days before prices go back to their regular levels.

Click Here Now!

And, as always, when you do get an item, send me a picture wearing it for me to share with the world! The blog, Facebook, and even Instagram! Not only would it be a great way to show the world your amazing outfit, but if you have a business or cause that needs promotion, it's an easy way to get a mention on Section 36!

Like the amazing singer Sabrina did!

This Tank Top is on Sale!

Or like the talented photographer Kelsey did!

This Tee is on sale!

Or like another wonderful singer, Lyssa, did!

This tank top is on sale!

Or like Lauren did!

This Tank Top is on Sale!

Like Bridget did! (With some help from K. Garcia Productions)

This sweatshirt is on sale!

Or, like travel agent Bernadette did to show off how amazing this tank top looks on her in Fiji.

This tank top is on sale!

Or Phil did

This tank is also on sale!

Or Holly did with her cozy new hoodie.

This hoodie is on sale!

Or Nicolette did with her great t-shirt!

This t-shirt is on sale!

Or like Allison did!

This t-shirt is on sale!

Or, like Sierra did!

This t-shirt is on sale!

But, first you need to buy something you like. There's a lot to choose from. There are even a couple new designs to choose from!

What will you get?

A Fuji Holiday

A couple months ago now, Fuji wrote a post saying he was looking to complete the relic set from 2019 Topps Holiday. I can't say that I blame him. The Topps Holiday brand has turned into a fun set, and the relic design certainly expanded on that. So, while I didn't buy a ton of that product, I checked out his wantlist.

Luckily, not only did I have a card he needed, but it was a Yankees card! I always welcome the chance to get Yankees cards as far as possible from me. Fuji offered a card in exchange, and we were ready. 

Unfortunately, upon double checking, Fuji realized that he didn't actually need the card I have. Being a stand-up guy, though, he offered to send along the card he promised me anyway. Which card was it? I'm glad you asked.

See? I told you they were fun. I especially like how the game used piece is from a red jersey. Not only is it slightly rarer for the Sox to wear those jerseys, but it definitely fits the Holiday theme better. It's like a giant holly berry. (Come to think of it, with Pedroia doing nothing lately other than collect his albatross mistake of a contract, I wonder when he last wore a red jersey.)

I plan on sending Fuji back a return package anyway. Hopefully that won't violate his recent reduction in trade package mailings. After all, this would just even things up, right?

Thanks for the card Fuji!

Sydney Park Visits Section 36!

Section 36 has another visitor! Sydney Park is passionate about empowering women, a talented orator, and the current Miss Five Boroughs. I was thrilled she was willing to talk with us and discuss those topics, and a few more!

So, let’s see what happens when Sydney Park visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Five Boroughs crown?

I ordered chicken fingers! It's my favorite celebratory snack! I also got right to work contacting local organizations and businesses to partner with for events and sponsorships. This crown and title carry with them a lot of responsibility, so I honor it by putting in the hard work and diligence that a local title deserves. 

What part of the upcoming Miss New York competition are you most nervous about?

I am always nervous for interview! While I do love talking, it can be a pretty nerve-wracking experience, so I am always just a little bit nervous. 

Is there a specific goal you’d like to accomplish during your time as Miss Five Boroughs?

The go-to answer is always volunteering and making my community a better place, but even when not holding a title, I dedicated a lot of time to volunteering, so besides that, my specific goal as Miss Five Boroughs is to work with local groups and build connections to local businesses to try and develop a really strong local Miss New York organization. If we can strengthen our scholarship award capabilities, it will make for a really attractive local competition that will hopefully attract driven and motivated women who could potentially become the next Miss New York! As much as this organization is about giving back, we already are doing that and we are already working within our communities to make them better, I think now is a great time for local titleholders to think of ways of advancing and growing the organization and its financial capabilities to better support its members and titleholders so we can accomplish bigger and better things, but it all starts with creating a strong foundation of support in our local organizations. 

Specifically, I would love to raise at least $5,000 to support our scholarship fund for the next  group of titleholders (and if you're interested in helping out, you can reach me on my social media! ;) 

How did you select your social impact initiative, “You Go Girl! Empowering Women Through Sports”?

I have been an athlete my entire life and so have all three of my sisters. We played every sport under the sun as kids. For me, soccer was the sport I loved the most and now I have the amazing opportunity to coach two u11 girls teams in the Bronx through South Bronx United. I chose my initiative because I know first hand how incredible of an impact sports can have on a girl's life. I am focused on building up young athletes through mentorship and one-on-one support. The skills we learn playing sports are invaluable: we learn to be compassionate and hard-working leaders, fierce individuals, and dynamic teammates. Sports really help set little girls up to be successful women, and I think when we systematically underfund our girls teams we are doing a grave disservice to our future generations of female leaders by denying them the ability to develop the skills they will need to succeed and to lead. 

How do you create the perfect monologue to perform during the competition?

I was inspired by Senator Elizabeth Warren! When "nevertheless she persisted" started trending I really started thinking about what that means and how the women in my life have persisted. I thought about what types of expectations society has for women and what kinds of roles we are told to play, and then I thought "screw that!" Spoken word ("slam poetry") has always been a passion of mine, and I have been writing my entire life. It felt like a fitting way to express how I feel as well as work in a medium that I love. 

A lot of people think spoken word or monologues are not talents. I disagree! Language and phrasing, tempo and rhythm are really testaments to the human experience. Who are we if we are unable to communicate and unable to connect through language? Being able to take that medium and turn it into something expressive and moving is really powerful! I try and tell people that the best monologues/spoken word pieces for a competition are the ones that leave people feeling uplifted and fiery. No one wants to feel sad after the talent portion! I like to ask "what puts a fire in you? What makes you get up in the morning and fight for what you believe in?" 

What is your personal fitness routine?

Quite honestly, I have very little time during the day to have a regular fitness routine! Most of my day involves running from my office job to my law classes to my volunteering work to my homework. But when I can I like to do yoga, I've tried boxing a few times, and I will go for runs in the park (when it's warm out…)

You are currently a student at Fordham Law. What are your goals within that field?

I eventually want to go into politics! I would love to hold a position within local or state government. For now, I am keeping my options open because I think it can be extremely limiting if you aren't open to new opportunities or avenues that you hadn't considered before. 

If you had an extra ticket to a Mets-Yankees game, who would you bring with you? Why?

I would bring my best friend, Megan Stier! We have always wanted to go to a game together. She and I love doing things around the city and really taking in everything New York has to offer. Plus, we both really get into activities, so we'd be hooting and hollering and eating hot dogs the entire time! (Plus, I think we both look great in baseball caps.)

Is there a feature or activity at a baseball game that you’d especially like to experience?

What I would give to throw out the first pitch! On second thought, I'd love to catch a homerun from the opposing team and get to throw it back onto the field at Yankee Stadium. 

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That would be fun to do! Hopefully it’ll be a Red Sox home run she catches!

As usual, I want to thank Sydney for visiting and for sending along the pictures that accompany the interview. Even the one in Yankee Stadium!

As Sydney continues her time as Miss Five Boroughs, I encourage you to check out her official Instagram account. It’s the best way to make sure you don’t miss out on everything she’ll have going on.

I also want to wish her the best of luck when she competes for the Miss New York title. It would be great for another Section 36 visitor to wear that crown!

Thanks again Sydney, and good luck!

Marisa Gomez Visits Section 36!

Photo by BE Studios

Section 36 has another visitor! Marisa Gomez is passionate about voter registration, a talented singer, and the current Miss Greater New York. I was excited she was willing to talk with us and discuss those topics, and a few more!

So, let’s see what happens when Marisa Gomez visits Section 36!

1. How did you celebrate winning the Miss Greater New York crown?

Being from California, my family was unable to attend the competition. So, first, I had to deliver the news! I was thrilled and shocked to be given this opportunity after my first time competing in the Miss America Organization. My sisters, specifically, wanted to know all about the competition so I spent the rest of that night on the phone with them!

2. What part of the upcoming Miss New York competition are you most nervous about?

I'm most nervous for the talent competition. It's worth so much of the final score and I think it requires the most prep.

3. Is there a specific goal you’d like to accomplish during your time as Miss Greater New York?

Of course, I want to register as many voters as possible but I really want to reach low income and diverse communities and inspire kids in these demographics to look forward to registering to vote as much as they look forward to getting a driver's license or going to college. I want to connect to these communities and let them know that someone has their interests at heart.

4. How did you select your social impact initiative, “Mobilizing the Young Electorate”?

I've been working on voter rights issues for about 5 years now. In 2015, I worked for the Independent Voter Network and Independent Voter Project and eventually ended up speaking in front of the San Diego Rules Committee and City Council. The Ballot measure that I spoke on ended up passing in November of 2016. It was a huge win for San Diego voters.

I learned so much about voter disenfranchisement issues and it really set me on fire for this issue. We have a right to express our opinions at the polls and we SHOULD if we ever want our government to more accurately represent us. Of course, there are barriers to voting but that is for people like me to work out. For everyone else, showing up to the polls is key.

I also think that 2020 is especially the time for this. We are facing the most consequential election of our time. It is unfortunate that voting has become such a neutral word to so many people. To me, the word carries a lot of weight. Right now, healthcare, climate change, and immigration are the issues that I am most concerned about. Not everyone will vote like me or care about these issues but the goal of my platform isn't to promote my beliefs but rather to promote the diversity of beliefs that exist in our country. Democracies function best when the most people participate. I'd like to see that happen.

5. As a talented singer, what do you like most about performing on stage?

I have always loved the way that performing makes me feel. I was a really shy kid and it definitely took performing to get me to trust my instincts, be confident, and be kind to myself. Its amazing when people enjoy it too but it has always been a challenge and journey of self discovery for me. I think I am a better performer when I perform for the love of it and show a piece of myself through whatever piece I decide to perform. 

I am heavily considering exploring one of my other loves and talents for the Miss New York Competition. I have been tap dancing since I was twelve and I think that tap dancing to a fun song and will motivate me to get back into exercising a talent that I've missed for the past few years.

6. You are currently a student at Fordham Law. What are your goals within that field?

I've always seen law as a really empowering profession. It is

Photo by BE Studios

essential for individuals to know their rights in order to be treated fairly. Right now, my sights are set on commercial litigation at a firm. The firm that I am working for this summer allows lots of pro bono work to be a part of its attorneys' practices and I'd really like to use that opportunity to work on immigration, women, and voter rights cases.

7. Your great grandfather played for both the Yankees and Red Sox. What can you tell me about him?

Of course! His name was Eddie Farrell. They called him 'Doc' Farrell because he was a dentist. He played between 1925 and 1935 and played for the Yankees in 1932 when they won the World Series. He died before I was born but my maternal grandmother speaks of him often and fondly.

8. If you had an extra ticket to a Red Sox-Yankees game, who would you bring with you? Why?

My friend Jenny loves baseball and she would absolutely come with me. As someone who grew up in theater, few of my friends are interested in sports but I think it would be a lot of fun to go with her!

9. Is there a feature or activity at baseball that you’d especially like to experience?

I would love to sing the national anthem at a baseball game one day. It would be such an incredible honor and I imagine that it would be really fun!

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That would be wonderful if she could get that done!

As usual, I want to thank Marisa for visiting and for sending along the great pictures that accompany the interview. They always make it so much more fun!

As Marisa continues her time as Miss Greater New York, I encourage you to check out her official Instagram account. It’s the best way to make sure you don’t miss out on everything she’ll have going on.

I also want to wish her the best of luck when she competes for the Miss New York title. It would be great for another Section 36 visitor to wear that crown!

Thanks again Marisa, and good luck!