tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65076501992911244852024-03-13T23:16:26.956-07:00Blog About a DogIn Search of the Best Ballpark Hot DogMoondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.comBlogger293125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-81295720905543044572018-05-27T12:28:00.001-07:002018-05-27T12:28:42.312-07:00Hot Dog Alert #28<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4ozRx2KyhcBpdM6Qi1u3jWxd6FIt5SFu9D2LJxPGP5gJ8_qCBUNzgNCGALN8f5JjprG8WKAT0H6J1zKHhppAxOrWNwpnD_yn89jarnuIVoUB7ti-BYmP4KoJZK5kuBGoeuZ6PcflHto/s1600/5ad62d945bf3a.image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="750" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4ozRx2KyhcBpdM6Qi1u3jWxd6FIt5SFu9D2LJxPGP5gJ8_qCBUNzgNCGALN8f5JjprG8WKAT0H6J1zKHhppAxOrWNwpnD_yn89jarnuIVoUB7ti-BYmP4KoJZK5kuBGoeuZ6PcflHto/s400/5ad62d945bf3a.image.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Another new baseball season, and another new name for the ballpark in which the Chicago White Sox play. Frankly, they change names so often I have given up trying to remember what it is called. There was nothing wrong with New Comiskey Park, but that was too practical for the Sox...and there was no money in it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">While they can't get the name right for their digs, the White Sox never disappoint in the chow line. They change up their hot dog offerings fairly often and keep the selection unique. This year the Sox are offering, among others, the <b>Cutter Dog</b>. It is named after a pitch, but this is one pitch you won't mind if it hits you in the mouth. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Cutter starts with a chorizo sausage, then guacamole is serpentined across the top and then sprinkled with tortilla cheese shavings. It is a simple concoction that provides a pungent taste that will please your pie hole. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you make it to the White Sox ballpark, try one...and then e-mail me and let me know what they are calling the stadium this week. </span></div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-92097397921927143232018-05-16T12:02:00.002-07:002018-05-16T12:02:58.312-07:00Hot Dog Alert #27<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7bGXMoEkt7WvvaNBnZwt1wazTHmlWCQXOdXdL8TjiLASX9_5yflyrX6Rz0neXNlD7zW6VlSF92DCmsbE-K8aKbAin7tTuZxxOVXsM9zVy5qm8TJcH3AcVWpZalBdnFsmNPhphxfQanY/s1600/img-0237-jpg-1524497232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="660" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7bGXMoEkt7WvvaNBnZwt1wazTHmlWCQXOdXdL8TjiLASX9_5yflyrX6Rz0neXNlD7zW6VlSF92DCmsbE-K8aKbAin7tTuZxxOVXsM9zVy5qm8TJcH3AcVWpZalBdnFsmNPhphxfQanY/s400/img-0237-jpg-1524497232.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Not only do the Kansas City Royals have one of my favorite ballparks, every season they introduce a new specialty hot dog. My last few visits to Kauffman Stadium have left my tummy full and palate satisfied. This year, KC introduces the <b>Sweet Tooth Lucky Dog</b>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Sweet Tooth Lucky includes a beef frank on a garlic butter toasted New England style bun, sweet baked beans, a maple-pepper bacon blend, chopped onions and yellow mustard. If you have not tried baked beans on a hot dog before, prepare to be pleasantly surprised. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Sweet Tooth Lucky is only available that the cleverly named Dog Father hot dog stand in the ballpark. </span>Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-5203924438175411332018-05-08T08:09:00.002-07:002018-05-08T08:09:57.393-07:00Hot Dog Alert #26<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1HwXYKlA7iU8nVpKq7yuGeIMOZwdZZk6uU3HBm3WwMEdnPvI5BMmdAwI2qaE8w1vWrJPX5EXzfmwtxGJruzzgU7qI7Xnm8pVmPB3IQ9wRotk_RNC0t1pBeAD14pjVXleoORJY2pfytWU/s1600/triple-play-dog-coors-field-jpg-1522153507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="507" data-original-width="900" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1HwXYKlA7iU8nVpKq7yuGeIMOZwdZZk6uU3HBm3WwMEdnPvI5BMmdAwI2qaE8w1vWrJPX5EXzfmwtxGJruzzgU7qI7Xnm8pVmPB3IQ9wRotk_RNC0t1pBeAD14pjVXleoORJY2pfytWU/s400/triple-play-dog-coors-field-jpg-1522153507.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is always a good time at Coors Field in Colorado. How could you not have a blast at a ballpark named after a beer company? Beer makes anything taste good. But this year, the Colorado Rockies don't need a hoppy beverage to help ballpark food taste better, for 2018 marks the year of the T<b>riple Play Dog</b>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This meaty beast is a footlong that not only has a juicy frank on it, but is piled high with pulled pork, bacon bits and topped with purple slaw. Purple because it's the Rockies. Get it? If you are non baseball fan, first of all unfriend me, and secondly, purple is a primary color of the Rockies' uniforms. So, purple slaw. Now do you get it?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This dog is considered to be an extreme dog, but I consider a hot dog extreme when I need help eating it. I have a trip planned to Denver this summer to catch the Rockies in action and to down this dog as well, and from the look of it, while it will be a meal, I will have no issue devouring it solo.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">No word on price, but nothing is cheap at the ballpark. My advice is use your credit card and don't look at the invoice until the following week to keep the indigestion from flaring up at the stadium. </span></div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-66116106920904485322018-04-06T11:59:00.002-07:002018-04-06T11:59:37.757-07:00Hot Dog Alert #25<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Great news! It's baseball season again! Watching the Pirates play in the snow sort of made it a weird start to the season, but it really, finally is here again. What are your plans for this season? Catching any games.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQli56tQYYQRdgHKngjYoYnj6MxtAaEwlZ0Fc31Qa7d9aBRMIhyphenhyphenqH-VAF1emQ2JssOC8Sff6ebElEZVS4kotdf68ZIoszPyrqketd2VwAwMCPL757G_TDGmj7qyBXk7I_a3aBVeofrFqQ/s1600/1522872623-NA_26trFood8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1349" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQli56tQYYQRdgHKngjYoYnj6MxtAaEwlZ0Fc31Qa7d9aBRMIhyphenhyphenqH-VAF1emQ2JssOC8Sff6ebElEZVS4kotdf68ZIoszPyrqketd2VwAwMCPL757G_TDGmj7qyBXk7I_a3aBVeofrFqQ/s400/1522872623-NA_26trFood8.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you do, be sure to stop in Arlington, Texas for the hot dog (sort of) that is this season's talk of the town. It's the <b>Dilly Dog</b>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So what is a Dilly Dog? It is a large pickle stuffed with an angus beef hot dog frank and then battered up and deep fried like a corn dog. The Texas Chili Company makes the frank and another Texas firm provides the pickles. They are keeping it local in the metroplex.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's $10, but that is a small price to pay for eating this year's most talked about monstrosity. And the fans agree. The Rangers sold over 2,500 of them opening week and are having a difficult time keeping up with demand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thank you Rangers, who gave us the Boomstick Dog, for keeping baseball concessions....well...interesting. </span></div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-25448721591460482922017-09-23T14:25:00.000-07:002017-09-23T14:25:07.997-07:00Sunrise in the Evening<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAfGOuxGQwVAI3zIOv9gRuMAEsdhZW0l3E-WWZY3PYa-q5Kooy2aoYUMLTDLh2BJI-5nT7juFVqLUZgBiFztaMabC5u7w-E1tY1yvj8ZR7rns_K4q-T855t5Np2awDm4qxLyDRnKD_yfs/s1600/kc+sunrise+dog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAfGOuxGQwVAI3zIOv9gRuMAEsdhZW0l3E-WWZY3PYa-q5Kooy2aoYUMLTDLh2BJI-5nT7juFVqLUZgBiFztaMabC5u7w-E1tY1yvj8ZR7rns_K4q-T855t5Np2awDm4qxLyDRnKD_yfs/s400/kc+sunrise+dog.jpg" width="300" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Earlier
this year I reported on the Sunrise Hot Dog served up at Kauffman
Stadium in Kansas City. I never intended to actually try this dog,
but as fate would have it I caught a Royals game recently. Know what
I had to eat at the ballpark? Yup, the monstrosity that everyone in
Kansas City is talking about.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It
must be said that the concessions folks at Kauffman are some of the
nicest in the business. As for the hot dog, it
tasted....well...unique. It reminded me a lot of biscuits and gravy
on a bun. I am not a fan of biscuits and gravy, never have been. But
a lot of people are, so if you like that breakfast dish, you will
probably like this hot dog. It has a Farmland frank, bacon, cheese, gravy and eggs to order. </span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqZ4YZKjMUFdME4cFvAS-AkWOTBe-oCs2qQyyQliUq16aOkpWpNWw-Uox8dDyP1rX9Xl91Ionwd6tIrP3qniBLLasZs-ycKWl4P4oyBx7mn4rdN4BQ0HEBbMrPf5hU0H3CwB3SF3elP8c/s1600/Kaufmann+Stadium+Fountain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1600" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqZ4YZKjMUFdME4cFvAS-AkWOTBe-oCs2qQyyQliUq16aOkpWpNWw-Uox8dDyP1rX9Xl91Ionwd6tIrP3qniBLLasZs-ycKWl4P4oyBx7mn4rdN4BQ0HEBbMrPf5hU0H3CwB3SF3elP8c/s400/Kaufmann+Stadium+Fountain.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love Kauffman Stadium</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
don't think I would order it again, but not because of the overall
experience with it. But because it is sold at a hot dog stand on the
right field concourse that offers up many other unique dogs that
would probably please my tastebuds better than the Sunrise Dog. I do
think this meal would be a hit if someplace local would offer it as a
breakfast item. Unfortunately, the earliest most games start is
noonish. <br /><br />Here's a marketing idea. The Royals should have a 9
am game a few times a year, and include with each ticket a Sunrise
Dog and a cup of coffee. That's a deal worth getting out of bed for. </span>
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Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-29486161240058144092017-08-13T15:23:00.000-07:002017-08-13T15:23:55.035-07:00Hot Dog Alert #24<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUCnCgwMdoQx4IUvFDn90g9jcnBaf4Vsp82Nuak8-aDAm0qL1F7gDcTHV7csXIEclSFGvB1ukCVmaroQ9MOqP4hQGwYgb9KbHyt8RqYzFjIGYHgiH1PNHJaxaUqM5UX66CmUWMTYdDbY/s1600/dmv+dog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="491" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUCnCgwMdoQx4IUvFDn90g9jcnBaf4Vsp82Nuak8-aDAm0qL1F7gDcTHV7csXIEclSFGvB1ukCVmaroQ9MOqP4hQGwYgb9KbHyt8RqYzFjIGYHgiH1PNHJaxaUqM5UX66CmUWMTYdDbY/s320/dmv+dog.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Washington Nationals had a hot dog quandary. Due to their geographical location, they serve fans from several distinct regions. The most prominent being Delaware, Maryland and Virginia. To complicate matters, each of areas have their taste preferences. Their problem was how does a team serve up a hot dog that satisfies all of those diverse tastes?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Not to be confused with the Department of Motor Vehicles, the DMV Dog caters to the Delaware, Maryland and Virginia fans by creating a confluence of ballpark favorites. It is a double dog (two hotdogs end to end) containing a half-smoke sausage for the frank, Maryland crab and Virginia ham. How is that for a home run of a dog? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It cost $12 but it WILL be the only thing you eat at the ballpark. Again, the DMV Dog does not stand for "Department of Motor Vehicles." If it did, you would have to stand in the concession line for 2 hours only to be told they were not serving it that day. Fortunately, Nationals Park serves it every game. Get one. </span>Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-79641413830132656102017-07-28T09:52:00.000-07:002017-07-28T09:52:09.282-07:00Unique Ball Park Features<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0Q7KE4h2Nd_B_joZLltp1TQaC81rhmZzJz4-TfysaUfm7yepUchpPlkldA-cqUmwWUZIg9F57Sw-jXVgQS0cbXBFcpb6HXdPRn0yp44bTzZMT-C5D-IRRwR9gAHNbb6aqqjcreYIXB4/s1600/light.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="155" data-original-width="325" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0Q7KE4h2Nd_B_joZLltp1TQaC81rhmZzJz4-TfysaUfm7yepUchpPlkldA-cqUmwWUZIg9F57Sw-jXVgQS0cbXBFcpb6HXdPRn0yp44bTzZMT-C5D-IRRwR9gAHNbb6aqqjcreYIXB4/s320/light.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">During my ballpark wanderings, I am also asked which stadium I like the most. The absolute 100% truthful answers is PNC Park in Pittsburgh.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">But each MLB ballpark has its own charm and something the makes it unique. Rather than bloviate about it here, I made a BuzzFeed post as a guide to the top ten unique ballpark features in Major League Baseball. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here is the link. Enjoy.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.buzzfeed.com/tomlohr/top-ten-most-unique-mlb-ballpark-features-31ob4?utm_term=.xplq1yPMYA#.ox8DyZwxpB">https://www.buzzfeed.com/tomlohr/top-ten-most-unique-mlb-ballpark-features-31ob4?utm_term=.xplq1yPMYA#.ox8DyZwxpB</a><br />
<br />Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-48536499553862527922017-06-28T11:43:00.000-07:002017-06-28T11:43:20.253-07:00Hot Dog Alert #23<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4HtLxE4aF2D-NA4ME0VOV3NpocMYYPWFpnCdjVDNvOXgXugEoZADG2t8bgVIn7YK9st3C8Sr6mw3oIZT4cwqOciaFjw_-rLvF2P2rfcfk392IxhyphenhyphenaqDxL_5T9-ECU-yoW4AkfM2sA4sA/s1600/avodog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="187" data-original-width="250" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4HtLxE4aF2D-NA4ME0VOV3NpocMYYPWFpnCdjVDNvOXgXugEoZADG2t8bgVIn7YK9st3C8Sr6mw3oIZT4cwqOciaFjw_-rLvF2P2rfcfk392IxhyphenhyphenaqDxL_5T9-ECU-yoW4AkfM2sA4sA/s400/avodog.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Some
people say hot dogs are not good for you. To them I say, if you
really want to help Americans be healthy, concentrate your efforts on
banning smoking. Leave hot dogs alone and let the people enjoy our
national dish in peace. And if you are still concerned about their
health, send them to Camden Yards in Baltimore on July 2 for an
Orioles game.
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">On
that day, the Orioles are partnering with the Peruvian avocados team
to give each fan a free topping of avocado on any purchased Oriole
Dog, they are calling it the <b>Avodog</b>. If you haven't tried
avocado on a hot dog, you should. It adds some unique flavor that not
only enhances the taste of the meat, but gives you body a nice dose
of omega-3 fatty acids. They tell me those are good for you.
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So
if you are in the Baltimore area, get your keyster out to the
ballpark on July 2 and eat a few Avodogs. You can always tell anyone
that objects that you are doing it for medical reasons. </span>
</div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-1350648971864435032017-06-16T13:07:00.001-07:002017-06-16T13:07:37.655-07:00Hot Dog Alert #22<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdzkX-UcPjVuG3YYHjOAPdQ7gBdEB2zEA06d1-Ul9nv2gj2HPgnvmH235b2NKJY_a84q98i6vMz6b04BkTzAY7uNeIc9xlY5WY76bpYzE3tUykzh1C63ZEylzkGF8My3bfc6PL0B2TWo/s1600/mvt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="652" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdzkX-UcPjVuG3YYHjOAPdQ7gBdEB2zEA06d1-Ul9nv2gj2HPgnvmH235b2NKJY_a84q98i6vMz6b04BkTzAY7uNeIc9xlY5WY76bpYzE3tUykzh1C63ZEylzkGF8My3bfc6PL0B2TWo/s400/mvt.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My secret food passion (other than hot
dogs) is Mexican food. I mean who doesn't love the greasy and salty
goodness of tacos, tamales, enchiladas and the like? The only problem
is that is just doesn't feel right eating it at a ball game. Nachos
are a ballpark staple but I need a hot dog. Some teams like the
Albuquerque Isotopes have had an enchilada dog and the Isotopes have
the right idea; why not fuse the favorites of Mexican food AND a hot
dog?</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Texas Rangers answered the call on
this and did so in typical Texas fashion: in a BIG way. Ever heard of
the Most Valuable Player (MVP)? The Rangers now have the Most
Valuable Tamale (MVT). The <b>MVT</b> takes the Rangers famous 24
inch Boomstick Dog to another level by stuffing it inside of a
tamale. Then covering it with chili, nacho cheese and sour cream.
Cost: $27. It sounds like a lot, but take it from me, I have had the
original Boomstick Dog and it can easily feed four people. That is
less than 7 bucks per fan to tackle this monstrous, Mexican meat
bomb.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">A roll of Tums is not included but
recommended. </span></div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-57463171656515957602017-06-08T11:20:00.002-07:002017-06-08T11:20:56.643-07:00Hot Dog Alert #21<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg51tdQy4MsoO7TpfacmhEDyvWY0yx4xblZDD08nlgVMZB6EZNdl_Stjt5DnsvK2efVEBXgXoY8V9DT4hyQWcjoDeuxxkdp2ussPlLquHZunzq60y4AdqyHcqVAbGIeIVLmfFJYgO4VC6w/s1600/srd2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="161" data-original-width="312" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg51tdQy4MsoO7TpfacmhEDyvWY0yx4xblZDD08nlgVMZB6EZNdl_Stjt5DnsvK2efVEBXgXoY8V9DT4hyQWcjoDeuxxkdp2ussPlLquHZunzq60y4AdqyHcqVAbGIeIVLmfFJYgO4VC6w/s400/srd2.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Breakfast is the most important meal of
the day. But hot dogs are obviously the most tasty meal of the day.
And hot dogs at the ballpark are even tastier. If you are like me and
occasionally get up a little to late for the breakfast menu at your
local diner what can you do? If you live in Kansas City the answer is
clear; head over to Kauffman Stadium, get a ticket for a Royals game
and then head to the concession stand and grab a <b>Sunrise Dog</b>.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This new creation from Aramark allows
you to enjoy breakfast on a bun anytime the Royals take the field. It
is like pulling up a stool at a roadside diner for some biscuits and
gravy, only you get to watch live hardball action while dining.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />The Sunrise Dog is footlong
breakfast beast that includes a griddle cooked frank, cheddar cheese,
white gravy, bacon crumbles and a fried egg. It's everything you ever
dreamed of; sleeping in late and then heading over to an afternoon
Royals game for breakfast at the ballpark.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">While I have not eaten it, it is
certain to be a messy affair with the gravy and egg yolk and what
not. My advice is to grab A LOT of napkins. I hear it is delicious
and I highly recommend trying any hot dog so out of the ordinary. I
would never steer you wrong. After all, I don't want to end up with
egg on my face. </span></div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-41556484798582913152017-06-03T12:40:00.000-07:002017-06-03T12:40:26.629-07:00Hot Dog Alert #20<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXq_a8Ifx_a27TW6DfersPpjbqDnT0b8q62WKqhWdNHvrfAzQ2TmrSEwTHKJveXVJ-v6_RMMj_ftiF4EHekYFPnIgAElpaf6ha4O18EDlnm5eN79JHNN6MAPYRbVBaWow2_HIy-6QLXs/s1600/aces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="156" data-original-width="240" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXq_a8Ifx_a27TW6DfersPpjbqDnT0b8q62WKqhWdNHvrfAzQ2TmrSEwTHKJveXVJ-v6_RMMj_ftiF4EHekYFPnIgAElpaf6ha4O18EDlnm5eN79JHNN6MAPYRbVBaWow2_HIy-6QLXs/s320/aces.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The
temperatures and blackjack tables are not the only things heating up
in Reno, Nevada this summer. The Reno Aces are bringing the heat when
it comes to hot dog offerings.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The
Aces, gentlemen that they are, have designed the <b>Versus Dog</b>, a
hot dog intended to honor the team they happen to be hosting. All of
their opponents get toppings related to their home cities on HALF of
a hot dog. The other half, owned by the Aces, remains consistent.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The
Reno part of the dog has coleslaw and pulled pork. Here is the
rundown of what the other fifty percent sports dependent upon
opponent:</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Nashville:
Steak House Dog- tomato, caramelized onion, steak sauce </span></span></span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Memphis:
Bacon BBQ Dog- chopped bacon, BBQ sauce, shredded cheddar</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Salt
Lake: Salty Dog- deep fried pickles, spicy mustard, chopped bacon</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">New
Orleans: Cajun Dog- pepper jack cheese, w. Onion, tomato, creole
aioli</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Tacoma:
Alpine Frank- sautéed onion/mushroom, Swiss </span></span></span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Sacramento:
Mac Dog- 3 cheese mac, parsley and Just Plain Dog with Ketchup</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Albuquerque:
Baja Dog- fajita blend bell peppers, pico, cilantro lime crème</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Fresno:
Taco Dog- Ground beef, lettuce, Tomato and shredded cheese, hot sauce</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #333333;"> </span><br /><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Las
Vegas: Street Dog- chopped bacon, onion, bell pepper, jalapeño </span></span></span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">El
Paso: Tex-Mex Dog- chili, chili con queso, onion, Texas bottle caps
or fresh jalapeño</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-size: large;">That's
a lot of trips to the ballpark to check out each dog. But hey, it's
summer, it Reno, and nothing beats a hot summer night than an outing
at the ballpark. Try them all and then try your luck at the slots. </span></span>
</div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-60357172211665738312017-05-31T10:30:00.000-07:002017-05-31T10:30:09.232-07:00Hot Dog Alert #19<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6W3gAZCLHNxaD6duPr5YxkN9jjjrl_cIJ2oiHL_cPl_sXX5zXn1fBHzEkpNMaf5bG-SdmkQPCheus8RKrxS3ATgMjhHI-UUe6YJfYvrNrc0Q3q_91R1CodPqzxtMGwfhD43t-zX5n9m0/s1600/churro+2.0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="717" data-original-width="968" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6W3gAZCLHNxaD6duPr5YxkN9jjjrl_cIJ2oiHL_cPl_sXX5zXn1fBHzEkpNMaf5bG-SdmkQPCheus8RKrxS3ATgMjhHI-UUe6YJfYvrNrc0Q3q_91R1CodPqzxtMGwfhD43t-zX5n9m0/s400/churro+2.0.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">You
know how much I like unique hot dogs, and I think it borders on art
when dog designers go way over the top to give fans a dish to talk
about. The Arizona Diamondbacks are the masters of this. Remember
they introduce the colossal corndog that was bigger than a chihuahua.
Then they introduced baseball's first dessert dog with the Churro
Dog. Well, they ain't done. And what better way to offer fans
something fantastic and new than to improve upon an already popular
product. Introducing the <b>Churro Dog 2.0</b>.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Unlike
the New Coke debacle, this upgrade is actually in improvement. It's
like the Churro Dog 2.0 is the high end version of a car model.
Instead of leather seats and moon roof, you get strawberry sauce and
Oreo crumbs. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
Churro Dog. 2.0 starts the same as the original with a split long
John donut as a bun. It lays in a churro instead of a meat frank, but
this year the churro is rolled in Oreo crumbs. The churro is then
topped with frozen yogurt, whipped cream, strawberry topping,
chocolate sauce and another round of Oreo crumbs. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This
dog is not for the light of heart. It is smallish, but I could not
finish the original Churro Dog when I had it a few years ago. It is a
ten megaton sugar bomb that is not for anyone that doesn't want to
finish the game in tight pants. However, if you are willing to run a
couple of marathons to work it off, then by all means wolf one down
guilt free. One more thing...eat slowly...brain freeze at the
ballpark is not fun.</span></div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-73060927771395858172017-05-25T13:15:00.000-07:002017-05-25T13:15:04.357-07:00Santa Fe Fuego: Red Chili Cheese Dog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzGQH2drXvG2SzC7IqwIaWY0jIa8DZKW_Pmtgk4zLXVK8AF01EivOO7XrfOY-gHgGJKS14e1WPCV7bNyBiZGFZdVri45AOObMxSTq7S4-bUKhiNflYTgM2bQOjQK5VtWy7BvqE3Kn22hw/s1600/fuefo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzGQH2drXvG2SzC7IqwIaWY0jIa8DZKW_Pmtgk4zLXVK8AF01EivOO7XrfOY-gHgGJKS14e1WPCV7bNyBiZGFZdVri45AOObMxSTq7S4-bUKhiNflYTgM2bQOjQK5VtWy7BvqE3Kn22hw/s400/fuefo.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sometimes
you just have to catch a game; even if it is not associated with
major league baseball. That's where the independent leagues come in.
If you live in a town that is not large enough or clever enough to
attract a minor league team, the independent leagues fill in the gap.
Wichita, Kansas has the Wingnuts for example and Amarillo,
Texas....well, Amarillo is working on getting a team.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I live
in Santa Fe, New Mexico. A town that is a state capital that is so
focused on its art scene that it forgot that you need an MLB
affiliated baseball team to be considered a real place that most
folks will want to call home. I still hold Albuquerque in higher
regard, mainly for keeping it real and having an MiLB team. We have
the Fuego, a team that is part of the independent Pecos League. The
Pecos is expanding, and now has some interesting venues, but it will
never compete with MiLB teams. Level of play is better than high
school but less than single A level ball. It makes for some very
interesting, and high scoring, games.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">At
least our team in Santa Fe offers a decent specialty dog. For eight
bucks you can get a red chili, cheese dog. It also has beans in it.
While unique (red and green chilis are a New Mexico thang), it is a
so-so concessions choice. It is an absolute must eat it with a fork
or most of it will end up on the stone bleachers at Fort Marcy park.
I think the frank was a Ballpark brand, which isn't bad but it is no
Nathan's or Hebrew National. And the price is about two bucks too
expensive. Plus, it didn't fill me up. While I love hot dogs, at the
Fuego game the Frito chili pie is a better choice and provides more
bang for the buck.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
would never recommend a dedicated road trip to see the Santa Fe Fuego
play. But since Santa Fe (for reasons unknown to me) seems to be a
vacation destination for many, if you are in town you should catch a
game. And after staring at pieces of art that you cannot understand
or identify that costs thousands of dollars, a six dollar seat on
hard stone will seem like a bargain. And it's baseball. Baseball
trumps art any day.</span></div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-16309734242914811342017-05-23T11:39:00.000-07:002017-05-23T11:39:05.044-07:00Albuquerque Isotopes: Orbit Dog<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgdK5eBbbKvMtfQrMbKxMBGNQ0IJZMnkVJTylouA2CD_s-GnkTJVKWJRVH03bPZPz4A-35IgCX52nuzEUVy9KDQ8lZPTKlyl6fsIcxpAeHm8j1hlEkZxNjwc8Hh01DrfEcGPgsydv-XsQ/s1600/ferndog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgdK5eBbbKvMtfQrMbKxMBGNQ0IJZMnkVJTylouA2CD_s-GnkTJVKWJRVH03bPZPz4A-35IgCX52nuzEUVy9KDQ8lZPTKlyl6fsIcxpAeHm8j1hlEkZxNjwc8Hh01DrfEcGPgsydv-XsQ/s400/ferndog.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After
checking out dozens of other teams, I finally made it to my local
MiLB ballpark: Isotopes Park, home of the Albuquerque Isotopes. I
would have gone earlier, but warm weather comes late to the high
desert. While I love baseball, I do not like watching it in football
weather. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The
Isotopes' mascot is orbit, you know, like proton and electrons orbit
the nucleus of an atom? Yeah, science was not my strong suite in
school either, but I could explain the infield fly rule like nobody's
business. Anyway, the specialty dog at Isotopes' Park is called the
<b>Orbit Dog</b><span style="font-weight: normal;">.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">While
it is a regular sized hot dog, it is piled high with awesome
toppings. It starts with a regular hot dog, put on some mac 'n
cheese, put some pulled pork on top of that and garnish with BBQ
sauce and a strip of bacon. It is a delicious tasting treat that
anyone will love. It is like having all of your comfort foods on a
bun. </span></span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Guess
who else loves this dog? Dogs, that's who. It was also the Isotopes'
annual Bark in the Park event and I took my Blue Healer mix Fern.
That's a picture of her checking out my colossal treat. I did buy her
her own regular hot dog, which she downed in about twenty seconds. It
didn't seem fair she got a mundane dog and I the Orbit Dog, so I
shared the bacon strip with her. She seemed satisfied with that deal.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In
case you haven't read about my previous trips to Isotopes' park, it
is one of my favorite in all of minor league baseball. And, it is a
true eater's park. In addition to having some stupendous hot dog
choices, there are tons of other great food options. And probably the
only condiments stand to have green chilies as a standard feature. It
is New Mexico after all. </span>
</div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-18243921359637143912017-04-26T14:33:00.000-07:002017-04-26T14:33:12.865-07:00West Virginia Power: The Cuban Dog<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcQKxj-Vtpye8xk5V30Hx7VBlhHZDHNSrQRv2v3ocoN5GsmyJHoTVS6w-yMbv5NN6AXtqiHx6R9Ma5qXEWdspKHFQ1RniLGe388C4eea1FWxAuMJ4F4uTHNHMpvFIr11a_WaDb2ahVsRQ/s1600/wv2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcQKxj-Vtpye8xk5V30Hx7VBlhHZDHNSrQRv2v3ocoN5GsmyJHoTVS6w-yMbv5NN6AXtqiHx6R9Ma5qXEWdspKHFQ1RniLGe388C4eea1FWxAuMJ4F4uTHNHMpvFIr11a_WaDb2ahVsRQ/s400/wv2.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The
prodigal son comes home. I grew up in West Virginia, so I was
naturally excited about catching the West Virginia Power at their
relatively new ballpark in the capital city of Charleston. When I was
a kid, they were known as the Charleston Charlies, but it wan't until
the 1990s, when they were called the Alley Cats, that I took in a
game at old Watt Powell Park. It was a fun experience. But not for my
date; she got hit by a foul ball....hard.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsPPobZ6r9yjTh_aBFotGJRSRPOC35Iyr0sCxml_X0dUhiI29fIDqglmUDdQsQBo4d7cDYSMIXdpFqLPLEl2MPGvrEtQvXLiwHWWu6_bRfY4MK3iJak-AQoFYQf1AX2iqJwXenyDvgx8U/s1600/wv1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsPPobZ6r9yjTh_aBFotGJRSRPOC35Iyr0sCxml_X0dUhiI29fIDqglmUDdQsQBo4d7cDYSMIXdpFqLPLEl2MPGvrEtQvXLiwHWWu6_bRfY4MK3iJak-AQoFYQf1AX2iqJwXenyDvgx8U/s400/wv1.jpg" width="300" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now,
in the twenty first century, I FINALLY stepped into Appalachian Power
Park. It is a no-frills affair, with nothing really awesome to note.
They did do a great job of placing the ballpark. It is downtown and
incorporates one of the old warehouses it replaced as part of the
stadium. Fans can also see the gold dome of the state capital
building over the right field wall. It's one of those parks that
doesn't have a huge draw to it, but is on most fans' must visit list.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
attended a noon game that was the first game of a double header to
make up for a rain out the night before. It was overcast, misty and
cold. But the action on the field was superb. After dealing with what
is undoubtedly the most uninformed and glum fan assistance staff, I
finally was able to track down the specialty dog offered at
Appalachian Power Park. It is the<b> Cuban Dog</b>. Hint for the
information booth: it's served at the concession stand right next to
you.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp3aG45ytihdTy_K-xKOmfMoa6QEsBVH9HPLL8_c7yz53MCINx0nCSKX3R0zoYnstu6pFEXX0YtZeC7vktWuHbQ6U36Lqm3Ua2En8YH_3uJmdAbt6ejgZbayTHYO8YJ9_m3ohY10oL5m4/s1600/wv3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp3aG45ytihdTy_K-xKOmfMoa6QEsBVH9HPLL8_c7yz53MCINx0nCSKX3R0zoYnstu6pFEXX0YtZeC7vktWuHbQ6U36Lqm3Ua2En8YH_3uJmdAbt6ejgZbayTHYO8YJ9_m3ohY10oL5m4/s400/wv3.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Is
uses a frank that no one could tell me the brand of, has ham, cheese,
brown mustard and sweet pickles. It was mighty tasty and is highly
recommended. The prices was fair as well. Had it been warmer, and I
didn't need to do jumping jacks to keep from freezing, I would have
had two.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Entry
price into the ballpark is slightly above most at that level, but not
prohibitively expensive. Parking for me was easy; there were about
100 fans at the first game as it was an early Sunday start on a
dreary day. But at a regular game, I suspect it can be a bit of a
bear to find a spot. I also got to see the “Toast Man.” If you
are a fan of minor league baseball, you have to google him. I saw him
in action at Watt Powell decades ago, and he is still at it; serving
up toast when opposing players strike out.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lastly,
while the girl that accompanied me last time was hit by a ball, I got
to leave with one. Balls are regularly fouled behind home plate where
it is a short flight to land in the street. Prior to me grabbing it,
that baseball found a beautiful black SUV to thump before it rolled
down the street. Tip: always park away from the diamond. Extra tip:
if you go to a game with me, keep a sharp eye out for balls; my track
record for avoiding them ain't so great. </span>
</div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-21363223556901117622017-04-22T09:27:00.000-07:002017-04-22T09:27:23.857-07:00Richmond Flying Squirrels: West Coast Dog<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9RLTbnGRGt34c2cCz9CZgmiAXuxz60pavsRbclsSeEystS3-NeoovSVdjSdiYbfJr4EuQQo4nvxLPxA04CyNBpjARYTryGNcm4xTOkVnaTGSDHhgK9weo3yb4MREQDxXFM1KWG8JmshU/s1600/fs1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9RLTbnGRGt34c2cCz9CZgmiAXuxz60pavsRbclsSeEystS3-NeoovSVdjSdiYbfJr4EuQQo4nvxLPxA04CyNBpjARYTryGNcm4xTOkVnaTGSDHhgK9weo3yb4MREQDxXFM1KWG8JmshU/s400/fs1.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's
nice to visit old friends. And that was exactly how I felt when I
drove up to The Diamond. I took in a game here in the 1990s when it
sported AAA International League action. Now, it has been downgraded
to an AA team, but a team that has perhaps the most awesome name in
all of baseball: The Richmond Flying Squirrels. How could you not
love that name? I actually bought a hat with the team logo, and
getting me to open my wallet for some team apparel means you have one
damn impressive mascot.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48WgEv3zREUdHhjfuP3SHPcH7BEQZU-TyxP697tF9BHdY2m4pz6PaCLzB5ZkJd3U7GHNwoDmFKWAUfpDemMoiz8bFTnhnKU1ha58nVuPEuraEyNCmgL59qR4uuUByUKz86n4aulAeoPU/s1600/fs2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48WgEv3zREUdHhjfuP3SHPcH7BEQZU-TyxP697tF9BHdY2m4pz6PaCLzB5ZkJd3U7GHNwoDmFKWAUfpDemMoiz8bFTnhnKU1ha58nVuPEuraEyNCmgL59qR4uuUByUKz86n4aulAeoPU/s320/fs2.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The
Diamond opened in 1985, but has the look and feel of a 70s era
utility ballpark, like the ones they used to call cement
ashtrays....only half of one. Instead of being circular, it is
semi-circular. It has the concrete décor, crowded and stuffy
concourses and crappy scoreboard that most stadiums in the 1970s had.
Think Riverfront Stadium in Cincinnati, but sliced in half. Still, I
love the diamond. If you ever want to experience how minor league
baseball was before it became in vogue, take in a game in Richmond.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hot
dog wise they do pretty well. There is one stand called The Dog
House, that offers a few specialty dogs. I had the West Coast Dog
that included a Ballpark brand frank, habinero BBQ sauce, pico de
gallo and tortilla strips. I was famished and had it in my hand long
enough to snap a picture, then it was gone in about sixty seconds. It
was delicious. Not huge, but tasty. They also have a Bacon Me Crazy
Dog I was tempted to try.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now
the bad news. My luck with the weather ran out. I have had the good
fortune to not have experienced any rain delays or rainouts. After
two innings of play a torrential rain rolled in. The pulled out the
tarp, and then pulled it back after a lapse in precipitation. Then
they rolled it back out. I guess the radar picture didn't look too
promising. That's when I called it quits. I had my dog, caught some
action in The Diamond, but it was time to head west.</span></div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-54097772984475966782017-04-21T08:10:00.001-07:002017-04-21T08:10:39.351-07:00Greensboro Grasshopper: The Mike Pi(a)zza Dog<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Wrapping
up my tour of Carolina baseball I took in a Greensboro Grasshoppers
game. They have a quaint little ballpark downtown that, when
surrounding construction is completed, will have a nice view of the
tiny Greensboro skyline. Ticket prices are very reasonable, as are
concessions. They offer a few ordinary dogs, but the real hot dog
excitement takes places just outside of the gate.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5xg-lWGD7tFhqIWdSa8lDGjx5pUN2F8Mipid1keZTCfRNdZyTSP5oy8UChz-_hfWws79qiLJ6EFrlcFlJ4nxJkD4y4VIaqFONEf8j9iv_7_EWhqZzq7iSSu0te4tUjTvlmNmVBNAmwmM/s1600/hop1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5xg-lWGD7tFhqIWdSa8lDGjx5pUN2F8Mipid1keZTCfRNdZyTSP5oy8UChz-_hfWws79qiLJ6EFrlcFlJ4nxJkD4y4VIaqFONEf8j9iv_7_EWhqZzq7iSSu0te4tUjTvlmNmVBNAmwmM/s400/hop1.jpg" width="300" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">On
Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays the food truck Hoppin' Hound Dogs
wheels in, parks on the outside concourse and works its wiener magic.
It really is magic, read the menu, put money in the window and in a
few minutes an awesome hot dog comes out of the window. I think they
have elves working inside.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The
truck offers some truly unique baseball themed dogs that are not to
be missed. All use Smithfield brand franks, but you can upgrade to an
Italian sausage or brat for an extra $1.50.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here
is a rundown of their menu items: Connie Mack Attack, Hank Aaron-ing
for Spicy, Mike Pi(a)zza Dog, Pete Rose Gambler, This Dog Wille Mays
You, Sammy “This Ain't” Sosa, Catfish Hunter Carolina Dog, Big
Leaguer. Hoppin' Hound Dogs gets the cleverness award for this year's
baseball road trip.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfIZFQ095F2ev8hHc7fYRIZOkqpcu_I5WiNqCbqxMbNJI5Cqv1YDPTbcNqnKvDYtsySgJZvcsmnVl1wni6k0wFQmNyEsBZquWT7PIwRGr0GUdwqZEvhIUiiUPusQto2QFWxNDFl9wRnw/s1600/hop2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfIZFQ095F2ev8hHc7fYRIZOkqpcu_I5WiNqCbqxMbNJI5Cqv1YDPTbcNqnKvDYtsySgJZvcsmnVl1wni6k0wFQmNyEsBZquWT7PIwRGr0GUdwqZEvhIUiiUPusQto2QFWxNDFl9wRnw/s400/hop2.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I had
the Mike Pi(a)zza Dog ($7.75 with an Italian sausage upgrade). Mainly
because I had been craving pizza for some time. It really was
delicious. I wish I had the stomach capacity and financial
wherewithal to try all of their items. But there is always next year.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now
let's talk dogs. Real dogs. The Grasshoppers have three baseball
black labs. Because black labs matter you know. One is retired from
diamond duties. The other two perform on field antics such as
bringing the umpire a small bucket of baseballs between innings and
retrieving bats. The dogs are amazing and a big hit with the fans.
Those labs make the game worth going to even in you hate baseball.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So get
down to First National Bank Field (yeah, I know. Another stadium
named after a bank), grab a dog, eat a dog and pet a dog.</span></div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-1011776358514348252017-04-20T13:12:00.000-07:002017-04-20T13:12:00.853-07:00Atlanta Braves: Some Fancy Dog<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBZFSnYV6jeIPOSEHkFDt8ODPRB2_R_CbdNOTQSxsXOdkVWWX7N24HOGC4pEhCT6VBJ9C8TdfCKu6q7rUUWjceO9wQEtIYp3dl9euyn9PAzhxjMlB3ELM8lqZtfEnTTWOmtoYMY3-lv3Y/s1600/braves1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBZFSnYV6jeIPOSEHkFDt8ODPRB2_R_CbdNOTQSxsXOdkVWWX7N24HOGC4pEhCT6VBJ9C8TdfCKu6q7rUUWjceO9wQEtIYp3dl9euyn9PAzhxjMlB3ELM8lqZtfEnTTWOmtoYMY3-lv3Y/s400/braves1.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I take
a certain pride in being able to say that I have had a hot dog at all
30 MLB ballparks. That bit of my soul came to a crashing end at the
start of the 2017 season when the Atlanta Braves opened a new
ballpark. Never mind that their previous ballpark was only seventeen
years old, in great shape, and one of the better baseball venues in
the big leagues. No one has been able to explain to me why the Braves
thought they needed new digs.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">But, I
am a complete man once again. I have had a dog in the brand, spanking
new SunTrust Park, the new home of the Atlanta Braves. During my
first season of blogging I rated each ballpark. I had a system, but
since I haven't used it in a while I will simply break down the pros
and cons of baseball's newest stadium.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pros:</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's
new. That means everything is shiny, clean and works.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It has
an AWESOME scoreboard.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Smaller
displays around the park provide the fans with lots of information.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is
very well lit; seeing the action at night is not an issue.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This
is a big one: they still offer reasonable priced seats. I paid $8.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cons:</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is
WAAAYY too slick. They tried too hard to be everything to everyone.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is
a kid zone nightmare. It has a rock climbing wall and zip lines.
Really.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Parking
is super confusing. It is a hodgepodge of lots all over the place.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The
majority of parking must be paid for in advance and get a
“permit.”<br />Did I mention parking is a pain in the ass?</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">No one
working there seems to know where anything is.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is
no where near the city of Atlanta.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lots
of security walking around. I felt like I was in 1965 Poland.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7flGJDq_bzHaXTAOBKHASrnVaeH7Gbacl2ZmlH26SyUyMWnt4XXcx7JmaAWdcYH6y599fL1C-Q1DQc3sqW_0lLE7lDzhJmZRsv3A2RyWOnvF-OgJGVltpDA3NuSXf2CSRjR5S1YNSRVs/s1600/braves3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7flGJDq_bzHaXTAOBKHASrnVaeH7Gbacl2ZmlH26SyUyMWnt4XXcx7JmaAWdcYH6y599fL1C-Q1DQc3sqW_0lLE7lDzhJmZRsv3A2RyWOnvF-OgJGVltpDA3NuSXf2CSRjR5S1YNSRVs/s320/braves3.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Tomahawk PorkChop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then
there is the feel of it. The ballpark is part of a larger development
called The Battery. When completed, there will be all sorts of
boutique shops and restaurants for fans to get raked over the coals
at. Right now, most of the storefronts are empty and have this fake
paper over the windows that makes the business seem occupied; despite
no people. Then there is the old-timey music piped in everywhere.
Walking down the street toward the ballpark felt like Disneyland
meets Twilight Zone.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />Inside
the stadium everything is super high tech and also a little to
fabricated. The interior is a cross between Disneyland and an Apple
store. For fans of baseball, true fans, we like the basics. Keep it
simple. The game has survived over 100 years without the fancy
gadgetry infused in SunTrust Park.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then
there is the dog. For a special and colossal food item, the Braves
offer the Tomahawk PorkChop. A $26 behemoth of sandwich that
includes, among other things, an entire deep fried pork chop. But its
not a hot dog.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">For
hot dogs, the Braves outsourced their wieners to a boutique shop
called First and Third. They offer fancy gourmet dogs that Paris
Hilton would drool over. But I am not Paris Hilton. I want a big ass
hot dog that will make me wish I had never met it after devouring it.
Instead, I got what I deemed to be the most interesting dog on the
menu: Nueske's Jalapeno Cheddar Bacon Brat. I supposed all those
ingredients are somewhere in the brat, but I couldn't taste them. The
toppings were odd as well. It was meant to be be some fancy palate
pleaser, in the end it was bland and pricey at $9.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKqmTyE4piF_fPuVUi3MonbLy6TlA6MfObNIQ0seWiWWnPsJv7D6Qfa0hhoDtMtAkAC4wMDhy3aNDoMz3aMkZFl9QatSmuDVMpJHHqhBKNxQcHKVqxtXyifL8vc67KhPoDr8iR5DauQqs/s1600/braves2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKqmTyE4piF_fPuVUi3MonbLy6TlA6MfObNIQ0seWiWWnPsJv7D6Qfa0hhoDtMtAkAC4wMDhy3aNDoMz3aMkZFl9QatSmuDVMpJHHqhBKNxQcHKVqxtXyifL8vc67KhPoDr8iR5DauQqs/s400/braves2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">looks good, tastes bland</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The
information station at the ballpark had to check to see if they had
anything bigger or better, because after spending $9 on the hot dog
equivalent of a poodle I was still hungry. On their cheat sheet of
stadium amenities they found the Mega Mega Dog. That was what I was
talking about. It is supposed to be available at the same stand the
Tomahawk PorkChop is made. Only no one there had any idea what it was
or ever heard of the Mega Mega dog. Disappointing.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
could go on. To sum it up I have to say that the Braves spent the
equivalent of the GDP of Venezuela to build an inconvenient baseball
disneyland, something real fans can do without. Frankly, after all
that time and trouble they went to, I miss Turner Field. </span>
</div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-17550987090048764242017-04-20T12:07:00.000-07:002017-04-20T12:07:10.592-07:00Charlotte Knights: Ruben Dog<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjOHEXe8M_dn3e3PbYnjVphsgXvvhA7itkOBkh6YAKZoZMEHMAzFi4aiTSRDdQ0L6JMOwaXBuv-LHf34qzY_v5SiAsZclLyIRpG4b_hn-xc3pmIVQqfubtzwD6fJR7XxvCn5loBvicK-w/s1600/char1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjOHEXe8M_dn3e3PbYnjVphsgXvvhA7itkOBkh6YAKZoZMEHMAzFi4aiTSRDdQ0L6JMOwaXBuv-LHf34qzY_v5SiAsZclLyIRpG4b_hn-xc3pmIVQqfubtzwD6fJR7XxvCn5loBvicK-w/s400/char1.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I get
to check another ballpark off of my list that I had been trying to
nail down for about three years. The Charlotte Knights stadium, home
of some pretty hot AAA action. The real name is BB&T Ballpark,
but as you all ready know, I visited a BB&T Ballpark just a few
days ago. I think this bank is attempting a monopoly on naming
stadiums. This version is an extremely nice minor league venue.
Despite being dwarfed by its NFL cousin a few blocks away, it seems
like a enormous facility. Perhaps after Hickory, most ballparks would
feel huge.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Charlotte
did it right. The stadium is situated directly downtown with the city
skyline dominating over the outfield wall. The food selection is
excellent and the park is spotless. The catch? It's pricey. The most
I have paid for a minor league ticket all year. I plunked down around
$12 for a seat, plus $6 to park. I guess you can mark that under you
get what you pay for, because I left impressed.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_uGPlZksM6q9u_H86HF9DMo0b4jtzsu9zintZDeM_fL_9AcA1C18XrAws7GX3VcYg8n8zFunCDGFsWD7_-8Q7T4rCrt1Ft5RvtfCyv_97nmTmPxDiF92wNVtwA2rjVt15mvsWATBiYGg/s1600/char2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_uGPlZksM6q9u_H86HF9DMo0b4jtzsu9zintZDeM_fL_9AcA1C18XrAws7GX3VcYg8n8zFunCDGFsWD7_-8Q7T4rCrt1Ft5RvtfCyv_97nmTmPxDiF92wNVtwA2rjVt15mvsWATBiYGg/s320/char2.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The
Knights' hot dogs could use a little help. They offer a smallish
Squire Dog, which I think is a kids hot dog. But like other
ballparks, they were clever enough to let Franx handle their
specialty dog. They have three. I ended up with a <b>Ruben Dog</b>
because it seemed the most exotic. If it is five years before I have
another hot dog with mac & cheese on it it will be too soon.
Teams need to be more creative.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The
Rueben Dog could have been awesome. It was reasonably priced for a
specialty dog. Although no one could tell me what sort of frank was
on it, it was a natural casing meat and damn tasty. It was piled high
with kraut, dressing and cheese but where it failed was the bun. It
is served on a pretzel bun. I am of the opinion that even a brick
tastes good on a pretzel bun; but it has to be fresh. The bun on the
Ruben Dog was stale. When that happens, it ruins the rest of the dog
AND it splits open and most of your hot dog's inner workings fall out
of the bottom. You end up with a mess you have to eat with your hands
and a not so stellar concessions experience. Serve up some fresh buns
and you have a winner, otherwise you have disgruntled fans.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Provided
they straighten out the bun issues at BB&T in Charlotte, this is
a ballpark that is not to be missed. Just bring lots of cash.</span></div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-10134042301066125682017-04-18T07:23:00.002-07:002017-04-18T07:23:35.175-07:00Hickory Crawdads: Dogzilla<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLyBzU_AEO0VnqXYMu_KhqNxnZlV9Q-oNdd_URhkjTWd2j1qN_nqt_YGm9hwKvLeD9WQgsPIl72it7zeOmzVST9PxkIFPMXG3yNg8Dc3sHxHlyrGDPhAnhltHfSQf6Ij9xInAmi8MRCic/s1600/dogzilla.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLyBzU_AEO0VnqXYMu_KhqNxnZlV9Q-oNdd_URhkjTWd2j1qN_nqt_YGm9hwKvLeD9WQgsPIl72it7zeOmzVST9PxkIFPMXG3yNg8Dc3sHxHlyrGDPhAnhltHfSQf6Ij9xInAmi8MRCic/s400/dogzilla.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dogzilla</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">During
my road trips, one of my main goals is to visit the most ballparks
that I have never caught a game at. The end game is to see a game in
every ballpark associated with professional baseball. But, during my
trips I am married to team schedules and geography. I would love to
see a game in Kannapolis while I am in the Carolinas, but I can't
convince the team to change their schedule to accommodate me. So, I
found myself, for the fourth time in my life, at L P Frans Stadium in
Hickory, North Carolina for a Crawdads game.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fortunately,
I love this park. It is small, usually has smallish crowds and is a
well thought out, no frills ballpark. Not to mention the shows. I was
treated to a 19-3 spanking of the Crawdads by the West Virginia
Power. It was an offensive display that the Crawdads fans
found...well, offensive. I typically root for the home team, but
since I grew up in West Virginia, I felt obligated to pull for the
Power. And it was just cool enough and threatening rain that I was
able to wear my WV jacket.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">For
such a low maintenance ballpark, the Crawdads offer up something
awesome called the <b>Dogzilla</b>. It is two large hot dogs covered
in chili and slaw, with a side of fries. I did my best, but the hot
dogs are catching up with me and I could only eat about a third of it
all. Talk about a spanking.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Had I
been at my best, I would have been tempted to take on the CLAWossal
Challenge. For $25 you get a footlong hot dog, an order of pub chips,
a BBQ sandwich, a Carolina burger, a corn dog and three onion rings.
Eat it all in one full inning and you get your $25 back PLUS a
CLAWossal tee-shirt. It's been done, but rarely. No takers on the
night I was there, but it warrants another trip to L P Frans Stadium
when I am at my best. And it the Crawdads have another thumping like
they did last night, maybe they will let me pitch a few innings. </span>
</div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-57740964732908739312017-04-18T06:43:00.000-07:002017-04-18T06:43:30.778-07:00Durham Bulls: Cue Dog<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEiTbA-5uD9T27lEscCgoDqQ8CVlmurGhVQ1LVk6pznyrDk8wo8emHKETBaiCia6YjphU4QbtaIj-HtrdMWA9TWv7EVInr7Raq1jvRVeQxBCTxKbTRmCXjgQNNRQom0_KdvmRW9g-Vrw/s1600/bulls1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEiTbA-5uD9T27lEscCgoDqQ8CVlmurGhVQ1LVk6pznyrDk8wo8emHKETBaiCia6YjphU4QbtaIj-HtrdMWA9TWv7EVInr7Raq1jvRVeQxBCTxKbTRmCXjgQNNRQom0_KdvmRW9g-Vrw/s400/bulls1.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">While
in North Carolina I checked out the ballpark where the movie <i>Bull
Durham</i><span style="font-style: normal;"> was filmed. It is still
standing, and still home of baseball, albeit college baseball. The
Durham Bulls built a new ballpark in the mid 1990s. I took in a game
there in the late 90s, catching some innings with a guy a have known
since the first grade. So it seemed natural to attend my next Bulls'
game with the the same guy. When Bruce and I were at the game in the
90s, he was childless. This time he brought his college-aged
daughter. Man, how did that happen? Things in life seem to happen way
too quickly. Then next thing you know Chipper Jones will be retiring.</span></span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAFJ1DbpOjXJxOv65QgvS1kEe-T-qv3-o3k4pMlOnPmHFHFrlTcjM7VdAr8yfDrmP7uh8qtl_wUKPlH_gHBKuxZhbUX3mOypQVHQ3I4HvWcbkvtCp6vmYNpmuS1Q_N01bdBLwOx3KTm70/s1600/bulls2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAFJ1DbpOjXJxOv65QgvS1kEe-T-qv3-o3k4pMlOnPmHFHFrlTcjM7VdAr8yfDrmP7uh8qtl_wUKPlH_gHBKuxZhbUX3mOypQVHQ3I4HvWcbkvtCp6vmYNpmuS1Q_N01bdBLwOx3KTm70/s320/bulls2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, Katherine the Wunderkind, Bruce</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-style: normal;">The
ballpark in downtown Durham had not changed much since my last visit.
It is still the magnificent brick structure it has always been with
that bull just above the left field wall that migrated from the old
ballpark and is feature prominently in the movie. It is one of my
favorite minor league parks. They did it right when the built Durham
Bulls Athletic Park. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfr75bhyphenhyphenpy9feBURoy0hE0SDY9Z_3TwlP9q-G_0krxIg_7z6F4qbeVU9pZpwUhkrdHyvjeVZeriHjCx29f04BdMxXbJeqTbUwh8gF6I4MVvnvjeeveqmGo5nz3IKWzlq1kXkGnbHRb4ic/s1600/bulls4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfr75bhyphenhyphenpy9feBURoy0hE0SDY9Z_3TwlP9q-G_0krxIg_7z6F4qbeVU9pZpwUhkrdHyvjeVZeriHjCx29f04BdMxXbJeqTbUwh8gF6I4MVvnvjeeveqmGo5nz3IKWzlq1kXkGnbHRb4ic/s320/bulls4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cue Dog</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-style: normal;">Their
dogs aren't too shabby either. The offer the </span><span style="font-style: normal;"><b>Cue
Dog</b></span><span style="font-style: normal;"> (short for Barbecue).
It is basically a super large Carolina pulled pork dog. Along with
the Brightleaf frank is a generous portion of pulled pork and cole
slaw. Nothing too wild, except the size of it. It's a foot long meat
torpedo that will sink any appetite. </span>
</span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrvameDN8K_V978WNnrfqScgFGGFmdhEmdmrlKlrnhuDq2j8WK2ZKbC5MS7gQ6piZHNzLVbPn4V_k1CcrnPnysgjKnsgF2CSvI7QJVm6vBRo6B82uJ31TVzQRlLU0KCTQStfaMX8I0quU/s1600/bulls5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrvameDN8K_V978WNnrfqScgFGGFmdhEmdmrlKlrnhuDq2j8WK2ZKbC5MS7gQ6piZHNzLVbPn4V_k1CcrnPnysgjKnsgF2CSvI7QJVm6vBRo6B82uJ31TVzQRlLU0KCTQStfaMX8I0quU/s320/bulls5.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little league players with big league appetites</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">This
is one outing that I enjoyed the company much more than the game.
There is something to be said about having a monster hot dog and a
beer with someone you played little league baseball with. You should
call up your old friends and take in a game; today.</span> </span>
</div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-62624866816123101932017-04-16T06:53:00.001-07:002017-04-16T06:53:43.699-07:00Winston-Salem Dash: The Cheesy Pig <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0MeLmP2ZHNFXXCM8gF00Vht_-0eTDefRVJNTFIn6SEz4iXKBzeHhUR2zwNzayYD_enWWC4yJONlRY66oH9eTTD-RqqljRyEQ9pzU93L9BaDhf8MkfIGfZwzr_gwnHqZ19pb5LFpCcdWk/s1600/dash3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0MeLmP2ZHNFXXCM8gF00Vht_-0eTDefRVJNTFIn6SEz4iXKBzeHhUR2zwNzayYD_enWWC4yJONlRY66oH9eTTD-RqqljRyEQ9pzU93L9BaDhf8MkfIGfZwzr_gwnHqZ19pb5LFpCcdWk/s320/dash3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cheesy Pig</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Years
ago, I went to a Winston-Salem Warthogs game in Ernie Shore Stadium.
Now the city has a new ballpark (since 2008) and a new name: the
Dash. The ballpark is a brick and steels structure, has a nice open
concourse design with an outfield wall that has more nooks and
crannies in it than Keith Richards' face.
</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNQt4wdfoFviddG3zrLxeXXV4wn84TzkJuj9Fx584lN-jNDlOfb_1JIhG1zop8zY9_iLhLxV4ZQABGc4ijKqI18qI7kz1fDQk9wQukYpuI_2VdAzvsd7IzrWqeUxSV8W7dga3LCEHxfiw/s1600/dash2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNQt4wdfoFviddG3zrLxeXXV4wn84TzkJuj9Fx584lN-jNDlOfb_1JIhG1zop8zY9_iLhLxV4ZQABGc4ijKqI18qI7kz1fDQk9wQukYpuI_2VdAzvsd7IzrWqeUxSV8W7dga3LCEHxfiw/s320/dash2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mascot and some handsome guy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Both
tickets and parking are pricier than most ballparks in the single A
level. Six smackers to park your jalopy and the cheapest seat will be
close to ten bucks. As far as the level of play.....let's just say
that the Dash had four errors in the first two innings and were
trailing 13-0 when I left.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF2dEXgUBGNDxzlQpADIQBLvD6Yfze90BtBGC0NL2xpP8Hx6sgzOWGuhuKmR-dgLcYTlF-Qrm3zfSGGFX3H6Yku1KlmhSiZMCGeuc4UcKeWe6ZT3uwp97HZWIZDKcW1LlR-78LfKdn-AY/s1600/dash1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF2dEXgUBGNDxzlQpADIQBLvD6Yfze90BtBGC0NL2xpP8Hx6sgzOWGuhuKmR-dgLcYTlF-Qrm3zfSGGFX3H6Yku1KlmhSiZMCGeuc4UcKeWe6ZT3uwp97HZWIZDKcW1LlR-78LfKdn-AY/s320/dash1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cheeseapeno</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">While
the action on the field was bush league, it certainly was not at the
concession stand. A sausage stand on the first base side offers some
great concoctions. I had the Cheeseapeno Dog, which is a Lowe's (the
meat guys, not the home improvement guys) sausage infused with cheese
and jalapenos. Then they top it off with grilled peppers and onions.
The sausage is spicy, but to really make it a scorcher they offer
Texas Pete hot sauce in a pump at the condiments station. It was
absolutely delicious and very reasonably priced. I was satisfied and
ready to watch the game.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />Then
I met Kit Edwards. Kit is the hand on the concessions helm at BB&T
Ballpark. I was still basking in the glow of the Cheeseapeno Dog when
he insisted I try the star of of the Dash's menu, the Cheesy Pig Dog.
It has a Smithfield frank which shares the bun with a hearty portion
of Carolina pulled pork topped with mac n cheese. It is a dog that
will fill you up and leave a smile on your face. He also keeps most
ingredients sourced locally, which keeps it fresh, tasty, and
provides a sustainable product. After one dog, I managed about three
quarters of the Cheesy Pig. Afterward, the paramedics were able to
roll me to my seat in a wheelchair after being treated for a food
induced coma.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNh09djA04yEKvLc_muxYvf16C0YIUCcP63jKFMkzxFMVMQ-D1B4sgjYzqSdSfJHkLaRaElj-xILgj1PspB9R5_RiRziGdcx8OPEa7zkcy4RD9g7_Wo5N3puK6iChgW39W7TnwozWXvMU/s1600/kit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNh09djA04yEKvLc_muxYvf16C0YIUCcP63jKFMkzxFMVMQ-D1B4sgjYzqSdSfJHkLaRaElj-xILgj1PspB9R5_RiRziGdcx8OPEa7zkcy4RD9g7_Wo5N3puK6iChgW39W7TnwozWXvMU/s320/kit.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Concessions King Kit Edwards</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Kit
and his team do an awesome job of offering up some over the top
concessions, which is an important factor in making a trip to the
ballpark a memorable experience. I, for one, will never remember the
name of the starting pitcher or the final score two years from now.
But I will remember making a pig of myself with the Cheesy Pig. </span>
</div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-77884988500866263022017-04-16T06:06:00.000-07:002017-04-16T06:06:09.496-07:00Augusta GreenJackets: Pimento Cheese and Bacon Dog<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTC6bXYYRU5oVgADABjeYmUmfZOTHGa2X73NQmYSxrSPdYa2I2u4x0pqtbteInBHMKH0G7DDsaMdeN9R_nMzaM2IEsCB-ANI3ziteowVoCAjjuWvBrxotikknE2jAyO61mc9cxCN2R1hg/s1600/ag1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTC6bXYYRU5oVgADABjeYmUmfZOTHGa2X73NQmYSxrSPdYa2I2u4x0pqtbteInBHMKH0G7DDsaMdeN9R_nMzaM2IEsCB-ANI3ziteowVoCAjjuWvBrxotikknE2jAyO61mc9cxCN2R1hg/s400/ag1.jpg" width="300" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This
was my second trip to Lake Olmsted Stadium. It had so many great
attributes. It is situated next to a beautiful lake, it is small and
quaint, had mostly covered seating, and reeks of minor league
baseball. It's everything a fan could ask; including FREE parking.
The last time I was there was in the 1990s, when it was still
relatively new. It hasn't changed much, but baseball has. Since it
has everything I could want they are vacating it for a brand new and
shiny stadium on the river beginning in 2018. How much you want to
bet the new ballpark will have a corporate name attached to it and
fans will have to pay to park? Sigh.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I was
glad I got to catch a game in at Lake Olmstead as it sings its swan
song. I'll miss it. The GreenJackets, unexpectedly, also offer two
specialty dogs. The Auggie is a meat lovers dream. In addition to the
frank it had BBQ pork and cole slaw. I chose the pimento cheese and
bacon dog, mainly because it seemed more original. Plus, it is a
collusion of two southern comfort foods and as a soutern boy I
couldn't resist. I would have eaten both but I am about halfway
through my road trip and I am running low on Imodium.
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6sENTR5JVo0oDm59vZw0GaO7FUHMVT9U_u9GX2treang91i2pa8QKhwszSgGyFzAlZBc_Jlnxh7mZd3wnfkCwU0lercdvx_O4kEiWD4OHV6Ql1DLCzAl_lkq7YcmR2wzSvHSoi9tXq6k/s1600/ag2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6sENTR5JVo0oDm59vZw0GaO7FUHMVT9U_u9GX2treang91i2pa8QKhwszSgGyFzAlZBc_Jlnxh7mZd3wnfkCwU0lercdvx_O4kEiWD4OHV6Ql1DLCzAl_lkq7YcmR2wzSvHSoi9tXq6k/s400/ag2.jpg" width="300" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In
retrospect, I should have chosen the Auggie Dog. The PC&B Dog has
great potential but needs a few refinements. First the frank. An
upgrade to a Hebrew National frank would do wonders for the overall
taste. The pimento is a little overpowering so a 50% reduction in
that topping would help. The pimento is also slightly cool, that robs
the finished product of heat and hot dogs need to be served hot. My
recommendation: charge fifty cents more for the dog, change the frank
to a Hebrew National, cut the pimento in half, add one more slice of
bacon and microwave it for twenty seconds before serving. Presto! A
great specialty dog. All that being said, Augusta deserves kudos for
serving up not one but two over the top dogs. Considering the size of
the ballpark and concessions kitchen, it is miraculous they can offer
even one. And, many teams in single A and with comparable ballparks
only offer a bland regular hot dog.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So, by
the powers vested in my by the baseball gods, I hereby command you to
head down to Lake Olmstead Stadium and soak in the awesome
baseballness of this minor league gem before the GreenJackets head
for fancier digs. At least it won't be razed. A college team will
take over the facility once the GreenJackets are gone.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And
while you are there, arrive early and play the disc golf course
across the street at Lake Olmstead Park. It is world class and was
home of the 2006 Disc Golf World Championship. </span>
</div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-54646526571926416682017-04-14T09:41:00.005-07:002017-04-14T09:41:58.399-07:00Myrtle Beach Pelicans: The Big Daddy/Chicago Dog<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3jZ__drpgRJ9_R30x_LkqDx5bjpDgoMuWGn7Sz8VSr_qvNU02TEmLJs2lZpZYE3IZGHuL1cfkjHGURZPQs2iRDSduFfkccneHJ2GuKJT7lDEGS98KJywYgx85hEIy485TrmddyP7Csqk/s1600/p1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3jZ__drpgRJ9_R30x_LkqDx5bjpDgoMuWGn7Sz8VSr_qvNU02TEmLJs2lZpZYE3IZGHuL1cfkjHGURZPQs2iRDSduFfkccneHJ2GuKJT7lDEGS98KJywYgx85hEIy485TrmddyP7Csqk/s400/p1.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Big Daddy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My
timing still seems to be off. After fighting the horrendous traffic
in the touristy town of Myrtle Beach, I finally pulled into
TicketReturn.com (huh?) Field. The good news is they offer FREE
parking. Bad news is it was opening night, meaning I could only get a
standing room only ticket. The good news is it only cost me five
bucks. The bad news is it started to sprinkle right at game time. The
good news is I hunted down the what I thought was their only big dog,
a very tasty Chicago Dog. The bad news is, after eating the loaded
Chicago Dog, I found the actual big dog that offer: the Big Daddy.
More bad news: I decided to eat them both.
</span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNuWZJKYT8R99wme9Px_eJWrfXBAKZUkVKuCUwKqGd1PU2gEEci_1DTrl45T0TSASQdFSTK0OCaSqIWfHDL9bQrDwI8Y01Zrtixi39qh_S-WME1XsFFkPBKaROt1A8scfMDeLoM2QqE7I/s1600/p2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNuWZJKYT8R99wme9Px_eJWrfXBAKZUkVKuCUwKqGd1PU2gEEci_1DTrl45T0TSASQdFSTK0OCaSqIWfHDL9bQrDwI8Y01Zrtixi39qh_S-WME1XsFFkPBKaROt1A8scfMDeLoM2QqE7I/s400/p2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicago Dog</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">First
the Chicago Dog. If you want a real Chicago you need to use what
Chicago uses, a Vienna Beef frank. The bad news is they don't use
Vienna Beef. The good news is they use Hebrew National instead, and
you know how I love Hebrew National hot dogs. In reality, using a HN
frank makes the Chicago Dog taste better. Factor in that the Windy
City Wieners stand really loads up that dog and you have a real
treat. And it only costs five dollars. It SHOULD be the only hot dog
you need all night. I have eaten a lot of Chicago Dogs in my day,
this one might have been the best. HIGHLY recommended.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then I
found the OTHER specialty dog stand. The Big Daddy Dog was supposed
to be so big it could satisfy Rick Reuschel. Despite being full, I
had to have it. I do it for you, you know.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The
Big Daddy is supposed to be a giant brat covered in grilled onions
and peppers. It was all that, only not giant-sized. It ended up being
comparable to a normal sized hot dog but with lots of peppers and
onion. It wasn't bad, but not great either. Lesson: if at the Myrtle
Beach Pelicans game, get a Chicago Dog. They are a Cubs affiliate
after all.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The
game? I lasted about an inning. It was threatening rain, it was super
crowded and I needed some Rolaids.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The
ballpark isn't the greatest. It has a very nice front facade, but the
interior is just ho-hum. The neatest part is the seats are from the
the Atlanta Braves old digs of Fulton County Stadium.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">If
this ballpark was situated further inland, away from the crazy
tourist traffic, I would say put this stadium on your baseball road
trip list. But, factoring in that the ballpark itself is lackluster,
not historic and driving around Myrtle Beach will make you reach for
a strychnine cocktail, I'd skip it. </span>
</div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6507650199291124485.post-33744905700400525562017-04-13T07:36:00.001-07:002017-04-13T07:36:43.830-07:00Kinston Down East Wood Duck: The Red Hot<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqugO23OMVgDAXGSGo2EWp43guUIN-B_hwzhmileNpIvdVt45nuFUqLbds-Fy_M_8M78P4yW-ruxfd9a3tCS_6nbPRpKMLEYC0Cde7n2jryN-Q3X5V5Ee4op-LsNPY3Vh0Je2yNN2Bt1A/s1600/wd1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqugO23OMVgDAXGSGo2EWp43guUIN-B_hwzhmileNpIvdVt45nuFUqLbds-Fy_M_8M78P4yW-ruxfd9a3tCS_6nbPRpKMLEYC0Cde7n2jryN-Q3X5V5Ee4op-LsNPY3Vh0Je2yNN2Bt1A/s400/wd1.jpg" width="300" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">With
all of the shiny new ballparks with corporate related names that I
have been visiting lately, it was nice to hit an old historic diamond
that has changed little over the years. And it was an extra treat to
catch an 11:00 am start. Although it has received a few updates,
Grainger Stadium remains relatively like it was when it opened in
1949. It has a covered grandstand that is protected by a large,
overhanging roof and a few seats on the first base side along with a
set of bleachers on the third base side. The best part about going
old school? You don't have all of that fancy equipment to maintain
and you can pass on the saving to fans. Parking was FREE and a
bleacher seat set me back all of three bucks. I'll take that over a
high definition scoreboard and fancy eats any day. One caveat: I will
personally donate money to help fund a new sound system. You have to
be first in something, and Kinston ranks first on the list of worst
sound systems in baseball. Then there is their name: the Down East
Wood Ducks. Huh?
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">They
say timing is everything, and mine was really bad during my visit. I
am very much married to team schedules and geography when planning my
baseball road trips and this day at Grainger Stadium saw me catching
a game on kids day. I have nothing against kids; until you pack
busloads of them in a ballpark. After changing seats in search of
kidless solitude, I finally left in the fifth inning. No ballgame, no
matter how cheap, is worth that kind of torture.
</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimEg7_15TJosMElkY_Cb966_l-7q_kGY03mMH9lxOIrs3bAdiHDUg6r7UzO5BzFZaop674LqbOE-cFDh0cn_Afw530PhJ90tkzQfJBYTagQ6MkgxeSsLpav5HUvMnczWnFkpDE_ISxHyk/s1600/wd2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimEg7_15TJosMElkY_Cb966_l-7q_kGY03mMH9lxOIrs3bAdiHDUg6r7UzO5BzFZaop674LqbOE-cFDh0cn_Afw530PhJ90tkzQfJBYTagQ6MkgxeSsLpav5HUvMnczWnFkpDE_ISxHyk/s400/wd2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">As you
might expect in an old school ballpark, the concessions are old
school as well. There is a hot dog, chili dog and a red hot. I was
told the red hot was spicy, so naturally I tempted fate and chose
that dog. At $4.50 the price was ok but not a bargain. It was a good
tasting dog, and probably the freshest bun I have had on this trip.
However, the frank was far from spicy. Those dreaded packets of
mustard and relish are all the acceptable condiments available,
although the concessionaires will put onions on it if asked. All of
the franks are made by Texas Chili.
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Kinston
is a super small town for a minor league venue. That makes it a
unique experience. Throw in a historic ballpark and very affordable
entry and you end up with a must stop on your baseball adventure.
Although I do recommend checking the Wood Ducks schedule to ensure
you skip kids day, and bring some ear plugs to mute out that horrid
sound system. </span>
</div>
Moondoghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06484914403679848645noreply@blogger.com0