It Should Have Been Today

That's right. Today was supposed to be the Red Sox home opener. Instead we're all keeping our distance while waiting for brighter days ahead.

Without baseball to talk about, I need to figure out some topics to write about. I wish I had scrapbooks like The Phillies Room to allow me to report on games from the past. But, I don't. I could use old box scores, but that seems boring. I'll come up with something, though, to give us all our baseball fix. (Ideas or requests are certainly welcome.)

Until then, here are some picture's from last year's home opener. I hope you enjoy looking back to better times!

Be safe, and stay home!

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?