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October 2 - October 8, 2023
Issue No. 505
For Gmail addresses, we recommend using the link immediately below for a pristine copy.
View as Webpage
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Nothing is ever really lost to us as long as we remember it.”
― L.M. Montgomery
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Here Today,
Gone Tomorrow
By Andy Dolich
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The ongoing soap opera of the Oakland A’s move to Las Vegas has
focused national attention on the possibility of the city losing its big
three pro teams. As tragic as this situation may be, there are many
other cites around the country that have waved Goodbye to their
franchises over the years.
Cities Which Have Lost Pro Teams (1946-2023)
Cleveland Rams to Los Angeles - 1946
Boston Braves to Milwaukee - 1953
St. Louis Browns to Baltimore Orioles - 1954
Philadelphia Athletics to Kansas City Athletics - 1955
Fort Wayne Pistons to Detroit Pistons - 1957
Rochester Royals to Cincinnati Royals - 1957
Brooklyn Dodgers to Los Angeles, New York Giants to San Francisco Giants -
1958
Minneapolis Lakers to Los Angeles Lakers - 1960
Chicago Cardinals to St. Louis Cardinals - 1960
Washington Senators to Minnesota Twins, Washington, DC - 1961 (AL
expansion team awarded -- Washington Senators)
Philadelphia Warriors to San Francisco Warriors - 1962
Chicago Zephyrs to Baltimore Bullets - 1963
Milwaukee Braves to Atlanta Braves - 1966
St. Louis Hawks to Atlanta Hawks - 1968
Kansas City Athletics to Oakland Athletics - 1968; (AL expansion team
awarded -- Kansas City Royals)
Seattle Pilots to Milwaukee Brewers - 1970
San Diego Rockets to Houston Rockets - 1971
Washington, DC, Washington Senators to Texas Rangers - 1972
Cincinnati Royals to Kansas City Kings - 1972
Baltimore Bullets to Landover, Maryland - 1973
Oakland, California Golden Seals to Cleveland Barons - 1976
Kansas City Scouts to Colorado Rockies - 1976
Atlanta Flames to Calgary Flames - 1980
Buffalo Braves to San Diego Clippers - 1978
New Orleans Jazz to Salt Lake City Jazz - 1979
Colorado Rockies to New Jersey Devils - 1982
Oakland Raiders to Los Angeles Raiders - 1982
Baltimore Colts to Indianapolis Colts - 1984
San Diego Clippers to Los Angeles Clippers - 1984
Kansas City Kings to Sacramento Kings - 1985
St. Louis Cardinals to Arizona Cardinals - 1988
Minneapolis, Minnesota North Stars to Dallas Stars - 1993
Los Angeles Raiders to Oakland Raiders - 1995
Los Angeles Rams to St. Louis Rams - 1995
Quebec Nordiques to Colorado Avalanche - 1995
Cleveland Browns to Baltimore Ravens - 1996
Winnipeg Jets to Phoenix Coyotes - 1996
Houston Oilers to Tennessee Titans - 1997
Hartford Whalers to Carolina Hurricanes - 1997
Vancouver Grizzlies to Memphis Grizzlies - 2001
Charlotte Hornets to New Orleans Pelicans - 2002
Montreal Expos to Washington Nationals - 2005
Seattle Supersonics to Oklahoma City Thunder - 2008
Atlanta Thrashers to Winnipeg Jets - 2011
New Jersey Nets to Brooklyn Nets - 2012
St. Louis Rams to Los Angeles Rams - 2016
San Diego Chargers to Los Angeles Chargers
Oakland Raiders to Las Vegas Raiders - 2020
Golden State Warriors to San Francisco/Golden State Warriors - 2020
If the Athletics move to Las Vegas before or after the 2024 season, they will become the first team in pro sports history to move three
times!
1. Philadelphia Athletics to Kansas City Athletics.
2. Kansas City Athletics to Oakland Athletics
3. Oakland Athletics to Las Vegas (Whatevers?)
4. Who knows where they might play before moving into their
Domed stadium in Neonville.
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Andy Dolich operates Dolich & Associates, a sports consultancy, in Los Altos. A local resident, Dolich has more than 50 years of experience as an executive for professional baseball, basketball, football, hockey and soccer teams. For earlier articles by Andy Dolich published in
Sports Today! click HERE.
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Publisher: Christopher Weills
Marketing Director: Robert Moselle
Director of Sales: Ann Cooke
Staff Photographers: Jeff Bayer, Alex Ho, Ed Jay, Josh Nickel, Ron Sellers, Darren Yamashita, Rich Yee. Kenny Karst (retired).
Contributors: Steve Chain, Harvey Cohen, Andy Dolich, Pete Elman, Rob Flammia, Bruce Macgowan, Robert Moselle, Dave Newhouse, Arnie Passman, Howard Pearlstein, Amaury Pi-Gonzalez, T. Buff,
Shelia Young
Social Media & Production: Jenny Kim
Website: www.UltimateSportsGuide.net
Contact us at: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com
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ON or OFF the Grid?
Many folks these days can be heard to say: "Oh, we're totally OFF the Grid!" What do you mean?
"Oh, we moved up North -- our own water, power, food -- like self-sufficient." This sounds similar to what I've heard the California Hippie movement in the 1960s was like, with communal or camplike lifestyles "up north -- somewhere near Mendocino."
Quite different is life "ON the Grid," where on a Sunday afternoon the "ON" is the television set and a potpourri of new Sports which dominate the airwaves, as evidenced by the Channel Guide from 2:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. on a recent Sunday afternoon:
* The USPA: United States Polo Association, England vs. USA in the battle for the Westchester Cup, ESPN;
* The PBR Cowboys World Team Championships, NBC;
* AMA Motorcycle SRX $1 Million Championships, CBS;
* SAIL GP RACING, from Italy ESPN;
* plus old standbys like MLB, NBA and NHL AND .... the new kid on the block,
* PICKLEBALL, the Atlanta Championships, sponsored by AARP (smart move)!
So, ON, or OFF the Grid? That is the question. Thank you, futurist pioneers, but I'll stay in familiar territory, "ON" the Grid, channel changer fully charged. How about you?
Robert A. Moselle, Esq.
https://www.cce-mcle.com/aboutus
A Minority of One
I'm sick of the so-called experts, (like on every radio show with all the local columnists as guests), with their tsunami of anti-Kapler opinions.
When did you decide to report all your stories and criticisms of Gabe Kapler: when you heard he didn't show up for lunch? Now it's, "How smart management is." It's kind of creepy. Last I checked, Kapler didn't bat .240, like everyone on the team. Ask Logan Webb about run support.
Maybe I'm the only one, but I liked Kapler and think he did a good job with the talent he was provided. I am not pleased that he was let go, especially in such a weird way. Pro-Kapler.
Robert A. Moselle, Esq.
https://www.cce-mcle.com/aboutus
Mike Krukow Fan
Thank you so much for your journal. I love Mike Krukow – always enjoyed him – glad you had him mentioned. Have a good rest of the week and stay safe! “Carpe Diem.”
Elisabeth (Betty) C.
Livermore, CA
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Contents
Columns
Hardly Trivial by T. Buff
Games
Cal Bears 24, Arizona State Sun Devils 21
Oakland Roots SC 2, San Antonio FC 2
San Francisco Giants 2, Los Angeles Dodgers 5
San Francisco Giants 2, Los Angeles Dodgers 6
San Jose Earthquakes 1, Minnesota United FC 1
San Jose Sharks 1, Los Angeles Kings 2
Stanford Cardinal 6, Oregon Ducks 42
Special Features
Fisher, Manfred -- Dual Criminals in Baseball Thievery, by Dave
Newhouse
Here Today, Gone Tomorrow, by Andy Dolich
Features & Commentary
Brooks Robinson, from the Autograph Collection of Rich Yee
Don't Wait to Donate! -- Now At #505! -- Your Support is Welcome!
Outrage #247, i.e.,...by Howard Pearlstein
Organizations
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Cal Bears
Cal State University East Bay
Golden State Warriors
Oakland A's
Oakland Roots SC
Oakland Soul
Oakland Spiders
Saint Mary's College Gaels
San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco Giants
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San Jose Earthquakes
San Jose State Spartans
Santa Clara Broncos
Sonoma Raceway
St. Francis Yacht Club
Stanford Cardinal
University of Pacific Tigers
USF Dons
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna
Seca
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The San Francisco Chronicle headlined the blockbuster trade
on June 16, 1976
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Fisher, Manfred -- Dual Criminals in
Baseball Thievery
by Dave Newhouse
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For suffering A’s fans, who’ve been victimized by a heartless owner and a clueless commissioner, do not believe this is something new in Oakland. You’ve been pushed around before in a previous century by another ruthless owner, and you survived only because of a caring commissioner.
Or have you forgotten Charles O. Finley versus Bowie Kuhn on June 15, 1976, the night baseball was knocked to its knees and Oakland punched in the gut? That’s the date Finley sold three of his biggest stars: pitcher Rollie Fingers and outfielder Joe Rudi to the Boston Red Sox for $1 million apiece, and pitcher Vida Blue to the New York Yankees for $1.5 million.
Sports Illustrated writer Ron Fimrite described those deals as “the biggest sale of human flesh in the history of sports.” Well, neither deal survived as Commissioner Bowie Kuhn voided both transactions “in the best interests of baseball.” Kuhn didn’t want to see baseball destroyed in Oakland — Finley previously traded Reggie Jackson to Baltimore in 1975 — unlike the current baseball commissioner, who’s supporting another burial-like narrative.
Rob Manfred is allowing A’s owner John Fisher to possibly destroy baseball in Oakland without an ounce of the kindness that Kuhn demonstrated 47 years ago.
Manfred is standing by, mindlessly, watching a baseball owner, Fisher, who’s acting as viciously as Finley by getting rid of the A’s best players while Manfred somehow blames the City of Oakland for this cruel transgression.
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If you remember the reign of Finley, for all the success he brought Oakland, there was twice as much misery. I know because I lived through it as an Oakland Tribune sportswriter, watching Finley create acrimony on a weekly, sometimes daily basis with his team and with baseball. He was a megalomaniac who wanted the spotlight on himself, not his players. That’s why even with all those World Series trophies, those A’s drew one million fans twice, and barely at that.
Now look at Fisher, who doesn’t have the best interests of baseball, or Oakland, in his hateful DNA. He has abandoned a city so callously, how can he look in the bathroom mirror each morning without cutting himself shaving? He is bound and determined to move the franchise to Las Vegas, even refusing Warriors owner Joe Lacob’s offer to buy the A's and keep them in Oakland. Perhaps Fisher sees his defiance as a means of proving that he is worthy of his family fortune, which he has yet to prove after years of trying and failing.
Once the A's got rid of Finley’s penuriousness, they rebounded under the glorious ownership of the Haas family and experienced new October success. If only the miserly Fisher would relinquish his ownership, there’s a strong chance Oakland would have renewed accomplishments at the ballpark, wherever that may be. However, you can’t beat the Coliseum for a perfect location in the direct middle of five Bay area counties, plus varied transportation access, adequate parking, and an airport 10 minutes away. Top that, Las Vegas!
There isn’t one concrete reason why Oakland can’t resurface again as a proud baseball town with new A’s ownership. But you have to pay, which Fisher refuses to do, to accrue the talent to win. Former A’s first baseman Matt Olson led the majors in homers and RBIs this season — for Atlanta — on a division champion. Get the picture? Fisher doesn't, purposely saddling Oakland with baseball’s lowest payroll, lowest attendance, and worst team record. The saddest trifecta.
I personally experienced the Fingers-Rudi-Blue trifecta, because I had to cover that ordeal, and I do mean ordeal, for the Tribune. Our normal A’s beat writer, the gifted Ron Bergman, needed three days off for a Carmel trip with his wife. So I showed up the first day, a football writer at the time, just when the blockbuster trades happened. It was utter chaos, interviewing the three players as outgoing A’s, then the next day as incoming Red Sox, who happened to be in town, and the third day as returning, though idled, A’s in the home clubhouse. When Bergman returned, he asked, smiling, “Did anything happen while I was gone?”
But if not for you suffering A’s fans, perhaps the Major League Baseball owners would have approved by now the A’s relocation to Las Vegas. Your passionate protests at the Coliseum, and the positive press you’ve created, may have the MLB owners on their heels, thinking John Fisher is a fool. Manfred doesn’t see that yet, and may never visualize reality, but keep it up, A’s fans. As it turns out, you’re our best hope for saving baseball in Oakland.
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Oakland A's fans display their passion.
Photo by Darren Yamashita
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Dave Newhouse's journalism career spans more than half a century, including 45 years at the Oakland Tribune before his retirement in November 2011. Newhouse is the author of 19 books. His most recent book, Goodbye, Oakland, is available in bookstores and from Triumph Books. Dave grew up in Menlo Park, graduated from San Jose State, and has radio and television experience, in addition to his work as an award-winning sportswriter and columnist. For earlier articles by Dave published in Sports Today, click HERE.
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Dear Reader --
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Without missing ONE weekly issue
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or send to: Christopher Weills, Publisher,
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Sports Today
thanks the following generous donors!
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A.Nonymous
Northern California
Elisabeth (Betty) C.
Livermore, CA
Steve Chain
Tarzana, CA
Harvey Cohen
Montrose, CO
Andy Dolich
Los Gatos, CA
Robert Flammia
Berkeley, CA
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Bill & Nona Hool
San Rafael, CA
Sheila Jordan
Berkeley, CA
Arif Khatib
Oakland, CA
David Larson
Hayward, CA
Ann McNaughton
Alameda, CA
Timothy Maroney
Gladwyne, PA
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Dave Newhouse
Oakland, CA
Timothy Palacios
James Reynolds
Berkeley, CA
Chloe Satterlee
Berkeley, CA
Selina Satterlee
Hanalei, Kauai
Robert Scheer
Los Angeles, CA
Narda Zacchino
Los Angeles, CA
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San Francisco Giants 2
Los Angeles Dodgers 5
Oracle Park, San Francisco, CA -- Sunday, October 1
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San Franisco Giants shortstop Brandon Crawford tips his helmet to acknowledge the crowd before batting in what could be his final game with the Giants. The last game of the 2023 Giants season resulted in a 5-2 victory by the Los Angeles Dodgers on Sunday, October 1st, at Oracle Park. Caption and photo by Darren Yamashita. | |
Consistent Estrada honored with Giants' Willie Mac Award
by Sonja Chen @sonjamchen
SAN FRANCISCO -- When it comes to heart and soul, Thairo Estrada always has more than enough to go around, even as the Giants have endured a disheartening end to the 2023 campaign.
Estrada was named the recipient of the 43rd annual Willie Mac Award, an honor given to the Giants player who most embodies the inspirational qualities of franchise legend and Hall of Famer Willie McCovey. The words "competitive spirit, ability and leadership" are etched on the commemorative plaque, which was presented to Estrada ahead of Friday's 6-2 loss to the Dodgers.
continued...
For a full report, click HERE.
www.sfgiants.com
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Attending the Giants' last home game of the season was highly respected former sports photographer Kenny Karst (left) and Christopher Weills, Sports Today publisher.
Photo by Darren Yamashita..
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'Loved every moment': Erceg on first
big league season
This story was excerpted from Martín Gallegos’ A’s Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe to get it
regularly in your inbox.
ANAHEIM -- When the A’s look back on this rebuilding 2023 campaign, Lucas Erceg will stick out as one of the club’s most encouraging discoveries.
What began as simply taking a flier on a Minor League reliever has evolved into the A’s striking gold with Erceg. Acquired from the Brewers in exchange for cash considerations on May 17, Erceg was toiling through his sixth year in Milwaukee’s farm system unsure if a shot in the Majors would ever come. Four months later, the right-hander entered Saturday’s game against the Angels leading the team with 50 relief appearances.
“When I first got the news that I got called up, I was talking with my agent and he was like, ‘Hey, don’t be surprised if you get optioned or if anything happens. Just take it a day at a time and enjoy every day for what it’s worth,’” Erceg said. “I couldn’t imagine being here the whole year and gaining the experiences that I did, but I’ve loved every moment.
continued...
For a full report, click HERE.
www.athletics.com
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San Francisco Giants 2
Los Angeles Dodgers 6
Oracle Park, San Francisco, CA -- Friday, September 29
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San Jose Sharks 1
Los Angeles Kings 2
SAP Center, San Jose, CA -- Saturday, September 30
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The San Jose Sharks played host to the Los Angles Kings in preseason action on Saturday night but fell to the visitors, 2-1.
Photo by Rich Yee..
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CHASE CENTER TO HOST USF AND GONZAGA MEN’S BASKETBALL MATCHUP
University Of San Francisco Dons And Gonzaga Bulldogs To Tip-Off On February 29, 2024
SAN FRANCISCO – The Golden State Warriors and Chase Center announced today that the venue will host a West Coast Conference showdown between the University of San Francisco (USF) Dons and the Gonzaga Bulldogs on Thursday, February 29, 2024. The game will tip-off at 8 p.m. PT and will be broadcast on ESPN2.
This game follows the USF Legacy Doubleheader game at Chase Center featuring the University of San Francisco (USF) men's and women's teams on Sunday, November 26, 2023, when the USF women’s team will battle Colorado State, followed by the men’s team hosting Minnesota.
Tickets for the USF vs. Gonzaga men’s basketball match-up will go on sale to the general public on Friday, November 3 at 10 a.m. PT, and fans can purchase tickets at chasecenter.com.
continued...
For a full report, click HERE.
www.warriors.com
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CHASE CENTER AND BON APPÉTIT UNVEIL NEW CULINARY EXPERIENCES
Chase Center To Add New Culinary Concepts, Innovative Dishes And Local Taste Makers
SAN FRANCISCO – Chase Center, in partnership with Bon Appétit Management Company, announced today the addition of two original concepts, innovative dishes and eight Taste Makers and that bring fresh culinary experiences and elevate the fan experience.
Chase Center will welcome two restaurant concepts, Bayview Burgers and Backboard Burritos. Bayview Burgers offers a unique take on the classic American staple. Using the freshest ingredients, with locally sourced beef and produce, each burger is cooked to perfection and served on a soft pretzel bun. From assorted quesadillas to mouth-watering burritos and burrito bowls, Backboard Burritos features dishes crafted with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Bayview Burgers is located near Portal 3, 18, 23, and 45, and fans will find Backboard Burritos near Portal 10.
continued...
For a full report, click HERE.
www.warriors.com
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Goodbye, Oakland
Scheduled book signings with authors Andy Dolich and Dave Newhouse
to be announced
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Dave Newhouse invites you to a discussion and book signing for Goodbye, Oakland from Triumph Publishing
Thursday, October 12, in El Cerrito
Barnes & Noble, 6050 El Cerrito Plaza, 6 pm
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Cal Bears 24
Arizona State Sun Devils 21
Memorial Stadium, Berkeley -- Saturday, September 30
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A perfect day for college football with a slightly overcast, mid 60s, no wind and two teams looking to make a statement. Cal would hold on to win by the score of 24 to 21. Breaking through for a two-yard touchdown, Isaiah Ifanse (#22) scores the first touchdown of the game, as the University of California Golden Bears hosted the Arizona State University Sun Devils at Memorial Stadium, Berkeley on Saturday, September 30. Caption and photo by Ron Sellers. | |
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Staring down the quarterback are the formidable inside linebacker duo of team co-captain Jackson Sirmon (#8) and the game's tackling leader, Kaleb Elarms-Orr (#53), who racked up 15 on the day.
Caption and photo by Ron Sellers.
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Hardly Trivial by T. Buff | |
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An easy one this week!
I'd rather think of the Giants and A's in their glory days than of their recent seasons so...the answer to our question this week played for either the New York Giants or the Philadelphia Athletics.
Which starting pitcher holds the MLB record for
the most consecutive wins?
(See answer below...)
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Stanford Cardinal 6
Oregon Ducks 42
Stanford Stadium, Stanford University, Stanford
Saturday, September 30
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Oregon junior defensive back Tysheem Johnson (#0) knocks Stanford senior tight end Benjamin Yurosek (#84) out of bounds after an
8-yard gain on Stanford’s first play from scrimmage. Oregon defeated Stanford, 42–6, in a Pac-12 conference game at Stanford Stadium.
.© 2023 Alex Ho.
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Oregon freshman defensive end Matayo Uiagalelei (#10) brings down Stanford sophomore quarterback Justin Lamson (#8) after a one-yard gain in the last play of the first quarter..© 2023 Alex Ho. | |
Oregon sophomore running back Jordan James (#20) rushes for 30 yards and the Ducks’ first touchdown on the last play of the first quarter. © 2023 Alex Ho. | |
Oregon junior wide receiver Traeshon Holden (#5) grabs a nine-yard pass for the Ducks’ final touchdown ahead of Stanford junior safety Mitch Leigber (#32). © 2023 Alex Ho. | |
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San Jose Earthquakes 1
Minnesota United FC 1
Allianz Field, Saint Paul, MN
Saturday, September 30
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MATCH RECAP: Minnesota United FC 1, Earthquakes 1
Marie finds late equalizer, Quakes earn crucial road point
SAINT PAUL, Minn. – The San Jose Earthquakes and Minnesota United FC played to a 1-1 draw on the road on Saturday evening at Allianz Field. A late equalizer from defender Paul Marie earned the Quakes a crucial point on the road.
The Quakes almost found the opening goal in the 35th minute when a close range shot from forward Matthew Hoppe barely missing the right side of the net. Both sides would play scoreless through the first half.
After conceding a goal in the 56th minute, goalkeeper Daniel would make a crucial save in the 75th minute to keep the score within one. The Earthquakes found the equalizer through defender Paul Marie in the 82nd minute. An arial volley from Marie connected with a cross from Espinoza to find the back of the net and help San Jose earn a crucial road point.
continued...
For more information, click HERE.
www.sjearthquakes.com
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Oakland Roots SC 2
San Antonio FC 2
Cal State University East Bay, Hayward
Saturday, September 30
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Oakland Goes Up Early, But San Antonio
Claws Back in 2-2 Draw
Roots built a lead in what was a nearly perfect first half for the club, but visiting San Antonio FC clawed their way back into the match in the second as Oakland played to a 2-2 draw on Saturday night in the East Bay.
Oakland looked strong from the first whistle, controlling possession and playing the first few minutes of the contest entirely in San Antonio’s defensive end.
This pressure paid off for Roots promptly as Johnny Rodriguez found the back of the net in the tenth minute to put his team on the board and his name in the Oakland history books. His 19th goal for Roots, an acrobatic highlight reel strike from inside the box, tied the club’s all-time record for goals scored.
But the boys in black weren’t finished yet. Just one minute later, Oakland doubled their lead courtesy of a rocket off the foot of Anuar Peláez igniting the raucous home crowd.
After going down two goals in the early portion of the game, San Antonio turned up the pressure looking to avoid a blowout. The increased intensity lasted for the remainder of the frame as both sides battled for scoring chances.
continued...
For a full report, click HERE.
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Outrage #247, i.e.,
"They Use You Till Hell Won't
Have You..."
by Howard Pearlstein
Another week, another flagrant example of raw, soulless greed.
The NBA Board of Governors has made an ex-cathedra
commandment from on high: “NBA teams may NOT rest their STARS for Nationally Broadcast games unless…”
In short, no one has the authority to rest a STAR if the game is on network TV, not owners, coaches or trainers – only the Board of Governors.
“TV viewers want to see the STARS.”
And the Governors want to see the money. High ratings bring big bucks.
It’s the Plantation System of corporate finance, where the players are field hands.
Want to rest that STAR player? The road to “unless” is rude, downright disrespectful, and not happening even if a player has what Simone Biles called the “swirlies,” when one's sense of proprioception -- the body’s awareness of itself -- is off-kilter. Not even if a player hits the Country Music Trifecta – lost his wife and truck and his dog died and it’s obvious during the shoot around something’s not right.
Coach might say: “Billy Bob, we’re gonna rest you tonight.”
Sorry. Want to rest him? Contact the Plantation Massa in New York a week in advance and ask nicely.
It’s no longer anyone but the seven CEOs who decide. And they can override you and your coach and your trainer and teammates, because they are WISE.
Right. Seven people. One was an NBA player 40 years ago and now is “one of the world’s wealthiest former athletes.” Five of the others are wealthy from investments and real estate.
And the seventh, Kathy Behrens, in charge of NBA Social Responsibility Programs, is doing what she’s been doing most of her life – helping people who have piles of money give some to people who don’t, like a poor boy becomes a STAR and wants to do some “giving back,” helping people who need some help.
(Not the same as guys who think “giving back” means running for governor or president. That’s called “taking more.”)
And thank you, Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ), for being such a graft glutton that “greed head monster” no longer only means a Republican. Soulless Greed is an equal opportunity deadly sin.)
NBA Commish Adam Silver explained that the new policy is “reinforcing that we’re an 82-game league,” allowing him to sidestep the issue of 82 games being too many. (The favored alternative to reduce the incidence of leg and ankle injuries is 72 games.) STARS are usually older players since All-Star Game appearances is what earned them this kind of discrimination. But the coaches, looking toward the playoffs, want to rest the STARS to keep them able to play.
TV viewers REALLY like to see the STARS in the playoffs.
But even if corporations are people -- people aren’t corporations.
I have nothing against people being rich. An operation as complex as the NBA needs people with high level financial and organizational skills.
I worked in Texas many years ago, where rich was RICH! But social resentment wasn’t about someone having money – good old boys wanted that too.
It was about respect -- giving it and getting it.
And for those who were arrogant and disrespectful they said: “They’ll use you till Hell won’t have it and never remember that a .30 caliber shell only costs a quarter.”
I haven’t owned a gun since 1966, but these days everyone’s got one, and everyone seems crazy and out of control. So perhaps thinking about that sentiment being out there should encourage serious thought about how courtesy is an essential social virtue.
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Howard Pearlstein has been a few places and done a few things.
An old friend once said, "Howard, you live your life like you're trying to fill in a dust jacket blurb." Well, then all I have to do is write a book that will get published.
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Brooks Robinson -- from the Autograph Collection of Rich Yee | |
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This week we all said farewell to "Mr. Oriole," Brooks Robinson. I recall seeing him at a sports collectors show sometime after 1995. I’ll always remember him as one of the nicest athletes. He not only signed my baseball with a huge signature but also added HOF 83 without me having to ask him to. He was a true gentleman on and
off the field and will be missed.
Rich Yee, Sports Today Photographer
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McLaren F1 Driver Lando Norris to Drive in Velocity Invitational at Sonoma Raceway
Norris joins McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown and three Arrow McLaren IndyCar Series drivers this November in California’s Wine Country
SONOMA, Calif. (Sept. 26, 2023) - McLaren Formula 1 driver Lando Norris will join the featured lineup of McLaren drivers at the fourth annual Velocity Invitational at Sonoma Raceway on November 10-12.
Norris will participate in autograph sessions and tackle Sonoma Raceway’s challenging road course in historic McLaren race cars on Saturday and Sunday. He will be joined by McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown, as well as Pato O’Ward, Alexander Rossi and Tony Kanaan from the Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. All five popular personalities will meet with fans and hit the track throughout the weekend.
Norris burst onto the F1 scene with McLaren in 2019, showcasing his exceptional skills to earn 10 podium finishes to date. As his racing career progressed, Norris ventured into the e-sports industry in 2021 with his gaming and lifestyle brand Quadrant and founded his karting brand LN Racing Kart the same year.
For more information, click HERE.
www.sonomaraceway.com
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Cal Draws With Arizona State
Bears Remain Undefeated In Pac-12 Play
BERKELEY - The California women's soccer team tied 1-1 with visiting Arizona State Sunday afternoon.
Cal now holds a 5-3-3 record and remains undefeated in conference at 2-0-1 conference. ASU stands at 6-2-4, 1-1-1.
The Golden Bears fell behind allowing a Sun Devil goal in the 8th minute, but at the end of the half evened the score with one of their own in the 41st. Junior Alexis Wright received a throw in and drove it into the box drawing in the Sun Devil keeper and al the last second tapped it across to senior Rilee Harmon who sent in the equalizer. It was Harmon's third goal of the year.
continued...
For a full report, click HERE.
www.calbears.com
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Sunday Shutout
No. 3 Stanford shut out Arizona 3-0 on Sunday
STANFORD, Calif. – Fifth-year player Maya Doms netted her fourth goal of the season, while freshman Maryn Wolf and sophomore Elise Evans contributed their first, as No. 3 Stanford (10-0-1, 3-0-0 Pac-12) shut out Arizona (4-4-3, 1-2-0 Pac-12) 3-0 on Sunday from Cagan Stadium.
Nya Harrison set up Doms' goal in the 15th minute, taking a thrown in and leading the Stanford midfielder through the defense where Doms dribbled toward the top of the box and laced a right-footed shot into the back of the net. For Doms, the goal was the 25th of her career.
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By Stanford Athletics. For a full report, click HERE.
www.gostanford.com
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SPARTANS TAKE DOWN BULLDOGS SATURDAY
SAN JOSE, Calif.—Letizia Cammillucci and Nayeli Ti’a each recorded 14 kills as the San José State volleyball team needed four sets for the 3-1 win over Fresno State Saturday afternoon in a Mountain West match at Spartan Gym.
- Cammillucci added two digs and an ace, while Ti’a had two digs and a block in the win.
- Brooke Bryant added nine kills and two blocks, one solo and one assist.
- Brooke Slusser had her second consecutive double-double with 26 assists and 14 digs. She added three blocks, three kills and an ace.
- Alessia Buffagni recorded her first career double-double with 16 digs and 10 assists.
- Jiana Lawson again led the team in blocks with five block assists.
- The Spartans are now one of four Mountain West teams who are 4-4 after four of the five matches are completed on Saturday.
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For a full report, click HERE.
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Saint Mary's College Gaels | |
WTEN | Daries and Dong’s win streak continues into the finals
BERKELEY, Calif - Gaels continue to battle on Day Two of the Cal Fall Invite with multiple duos competing in the Semifinals.
Juliette Daries and Tian Yu Dong continue their win streak in the Gold open doubles semifinals against Southern Miss Warisara Lee and Weronika Ejsmont. The pair won 8-5 and will progress into finals against a duo from Cal.
In the White open double, Sofia Daryaie and Stefanie Silvia faced Azaria Hayes and Alicia Yue from the University of San Francisco, where Daryaie and Silvia won 8-2 in the quarterfinals. They continued to battle hard in the semifinals where they fell short 6-8 against Kaavya Sawhney and Win Ka Lin from BYU.
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For a full report, click HERE.
#GaelsRise
www.smcgaels.com
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Gonzaga and San Francisco Set to Meet at Chase Center
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – The University of San Francisco men's basketball program and the Golden State Warriors announced today that the Dons will host West Coast Conference rival Gonzaga on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at Chase Center in San Francisco. The game will tip off at 8:00 p.m. PT and will be broadcast on ESPN2.
This game follows the USF Legacy Doubleheader game at Chase Center featuring the USF men's and women's teams on Sunday, November 26, 2023. The USF women's team will match up against Colorado State at 2:30 pm followed by the men taking on Minnesota at 5:30 pm. Tickets for the USF Legacy games on Nov. 26, 2023 can be purchased here.
Tickets for the USF vs. Gonzaga men's basketball matchup will go on sale to the general public on Friday, Nov. 3, 2023 at 10:00 am. Fans will be able purchase tickets for the matchup by visiting chasecenter.com. Fans can get access to the USF vs. Gonzaga game today by becoming a USF season ticket holder. Beginning this season, fans will be personally seated by USF staff for each Chase Center game upon signing up as a season ticket holder. To sign up, please contact the San Francisco Athletics box office at usftickets@usfca.edu or (415) 422-2873.
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For a full report, click HERE.
www.usfdons.com
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Watanabe Eriksson Captures Flight B Singles Championship at Aggie Invitational
DAVIS, Calif. – Sophomore transfer Alexander Watanabe Eriksson won the Flight B singles championship and graduate student Matthew Rodriguez was a Flight C singles finalist at the Aggie Invitational in a strong showing for the Santa Clara men's tennis team to kick off the 2023-24 fall season.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
Santa Clara had a split squad this weekend with four players - Alexander Watanabe Eriksson, Arjun Honnappa, Lukas Maskow and Matthew Rodriguez - participating in the Aggie Invitational and Guillaume Dalmasso and Christian Lerby set to play at the ITA All-American Championships in Tulsa, Oklahoma starting on Monday.
Over the course of three days at the Aggie Invitational, hosted by UC Davis, the Broncos won a total of 10 matches, picking up seven singles and three doubles victories.
Watanabe Eriksson led the way going 4-0 in singles play including defeating Brett Brinkman in three sets, 3-6, 6-2, 6-1, to capture the Flight B championship. Watanabe Eriksson also went 2-2 in doubles partnering with Honnappa.
Rodriguez won two singles matches to advance to the Flight C finals before falling to Ivan Savkin in three sets 6-2, 5-7, 6-2.
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For a full report, click HERE.
www.santaclarabroncos.com
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University of Pacific Tigers | |
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#10 PACIFIC DROPS TOUGH ROAD TEST AGAINST #3 USC
LOS ANGELES – The #10 Pacific men's water polo team put together a spirited fight in their final game of the weekend road trip, but ultimately fell, 16-6, to #3 USC on Sunday at Uytengsu Aquatics Center.
The Tigers drop their first road game of the season, falling to 9-3 on the year. The Trojans improve to 10-2 overall.
Five different Tigers found the back of the net, including a pair of goals by junior Gil Gvishi. Gvishi extends his point streak to 11 games this season with his ninth multi-point performance of the 2023 campaign.
Graduate student and former Trojan Stefan Vavic led the Tigers with a game-high nine shot attempts, scoring a goal and collecting two assists in his effort offensively. Senior goalkeeper Lewis Gale made seven saves.
The Trojans put the pedal to the metal right out of the gate, scoring eight goals in the opening period while the Tigers strung together three tallies.
The second period saw Pacific and USC trade just one goal each in a stronger defensive frame. Vavic scored the lone goal for the Tigers as the scoreboard read 9-4 at halftime.
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For a full report, click HERE.
www.pacifictigers.com
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Cal State University East Bay Pioneers | |
Pioneers Play to Scoreless Draw at CSUSM
SAN MARCOS, Calif. – Cal State East Bay women's soccer wrapped up its 2023 non-conference schedule on Saturday at Cal State San Marcos in San Marcos. The two teams played a back-and-forth match and in the end, played to a 0-0 draw.
In the first half, both teams would spend a considerable amount of time in their offensive zones. The lone shot of the half for the Pioneers came in the ninth minute off the foot of Isabella Hernandez but her shot went just left of the frame. The Pioneers were outshot 4-1 in the half.
THe Pioneers and Cougars each had three shots with one coming on frame. The Pioneers would have final chance to score in the 89th minute on a Harlye Holliday shot that was saved by the Cougars' Allison Marcure.
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For a full report, click HERE.
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SPEND THE SUMMER SAILING
Each San Francisco clubhouse camp session is one week (four days) in length and broken into two groups. Each camp is designed for Beginning and Intermediate level sailors. Instructors will place sailors in appropriate group level. Classes are taught on RS Teras, RS Fevas and CFJs. Beginning classes cover rigging, points of sail, capsizing, tacking, gybing and safety. Intermediate classes move on to topics such as sail trim, weight placement, tactics, starting and the Racing Rules of Sailing.
2023 Cityfront Sailing Camp Dates
Open to Novice through Intermediate level sailors ages 8- 17 years, these camps are one week long, meeting Monday – Thursday from 9:00am-4:00pm. This class is to learn to sail and build confidence. Sailors will learn rigging, points of sail, capsizing, tacking and gybing. Sailors will leave the class with a good knowledge of basic sailing skills. This is a great class for beginner sailors to build confidence sailing on the windy Cityfront while working on their intermediate level skills such as hiking out, close-hauled sailing and proper sail trim. Boats sailed will be RS Teras and RS Fevas.
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For a full report, click HERE.
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Watch any program on CCE's YouTube channel, or, for attorneys, earn MCLE credits online, economically, with "The Best in Topics and Talent."
Center for Continuing Education, Monterey, CA is a State Bar of California MCLE approved Provider, #8450
https://www.cce-mcle.com/
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The 23rd Annual
Biletnikoff Foundation Crab Fest!
It’s become a family reunion!
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Hardly Trivial Answer by T. Buff | |
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Carl Hubbell
On July 18, 1936 New York Giants pitcher Carl Hubbell won a 10-2 blowout against the Cincinnati Reds and then kept on winning, closing out the season
with 16 straight victories.
Hubbell went on to win his first eight games in 1937, notching a MLB record 24 consecutive wins before finally losing to the Brooklyn Dodgers on May 31.
His Hall of Fame entry is found here,
https://bit.ly/3udVhOV.
Go Patriots!
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Absorbing, frank and informative, Elman's smart prose makes for entertaining reading and brings to life our sports world with a deft touch.
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“A must read…an in-depth look into stories that come from all avenues of professional sports."
-- Andy Dolich, prominent sports executive with fifty years experience with the NFL, NBA, MLB & NHL
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"Good things come to those who wait"
The Guinness is pouring well and honestly we can't drink it all by ourselves so join us. Open Monday through Thursday at 4pm. Friday through Sunday at 12pm. Happy Hour 4pm to 6pm. Look forward to seeing all your smiling
faces once again.
https://www.thechieftain.com/
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Recent Facebook Albums to Enjoy | |
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San Francisco Giants 2, Los Angeles Dodgers 5, October 1, 2023..
Photos by Darren Yamashita
Cal Bears 24, Arizona State Sun Devils 21, September 30, 2023. Photos by Ron Sellers.
Stanford Cardinal 6, Oregon Ducks 42, September 30, 2023.
Photos by Alex Ho.
San Jose Sharks 1, Los Angeles Kings 2, September 30, 2023.
Photos by Rich Yee.
San Francisco Giants 2, Los Angeles Dodgers 6, September 29, 2023. Photos by Rich Yee.
Oakland A’s 0, Detroit Tigers 2, September 24, 2023.
Photos by Darren Yamashita.
Oakland Roots SC 2, Monterey Bay FC 2, September 23, 2003. Photos by Ron Sellers.
San Jose Earthquakes 1, Nashville SC 1, September 23, 2023.
Photos by Alex Ho.
Stanford Cardinal 23, Sacramento State Hornets 30, September 16, 2023. Photos by Alex Ho.
Cal Bears 31, Idaho Vandals 17, September 16, 2023.
Photos by Ron Sellers.
Oakland A’s 3, San Diego Padres 8, September 15, 2023.
Photos by Darren Yamashita.
San Francisco Giants 6, Colorado Rockies 3, September 10, 2023. Photos by Darren Yamashita.
San Francisco Giants 9, Colorado Rockies 1. September 9, 2023.
Photos by Rich Yee.
Cal Bears 10, Auburn Tigers 14, September 9, 2023.
Photos by Ron Sellers.
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Weekly Bay Area
Sports Calendar
Monday, October 2, through
Sunday, October 8, 2023
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Monday, October 2
Tuesday, October 3
San Jose Sharks @ Vegas Golden Knights, 7 p.m.
Wednesday, October 4
Oakland Roots SC @ Orange County SC, 7 p.m.
Thursday, October 5
San Jose Sharks @ Los Angeles Kings, 6 p.m.
Friday, October 6
Saturday, October 7
San Jose Earthquakes @ FC Dallas, 5:30 p.m.
Oakland Roots SC @ San Diego Loyal, 7 p.m.
Cal Bears vs. Oregon State, 7 p.m.
San Jose State Spartans @ Boise State Broncos, 5 p.m.
Sunday, October 8
San Francisco 49ers vs. Dallas Cowboys, 5:20 p.m.
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Enjoy the
Ultimate Sports Guide website!
Under the ultra-skilled leadership of Cal graduate Ricky Liu, a team of talented Cal students assembled the elegant Ultimate Sports Guide website for your readers. Ricky's team included Natalie Leung, Yafei Liang and Kasey Woo. Visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net
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FIELD OF PLAY
For the past 60 years, Michael Zagaris has taken his camera behind the scenes of the NFL, capturing the moments that define America’s game.
To order: https://www.zagarisbook.com/
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LOL, Loss of Logo: What’s Your Next Move? was written for sports professionals by Andy Dolich and Jack Hirschman and offers valuable takeaways for everyone chasing the fancy logo and corner office. | |
The Emerald Mile: The epic and award-winning story of the fastest ride in history through the heart of the Grand Canyon, by Kevin Fedarko. A thrilling true tale during the legendary flood of 1983. | |
More than a cookbook, this culinary delight was written to preserve a great chef's traditional family recipes and stories of her childhood for her far-flung grandchildren. Author Leonie Samuel-Hool recounts stories of a vanished society and legends of the gods and goddesses that protect and sometimes make mischief in Indonesian homes, fields and foods. The recipes are explicitly presented. | |
The absolute greatest Yankees were the 1949-1953 pinstripers, winners of an unprecedented five consecutive World Series. "The Yankee Way," Hall of Fame manager Tony La Russa writes in the book's foreword, is "full of Yankee winning keys, star-studded competition, and insights about one of baseball's historically fascinating periods." By Charlie Silvera with Dave Newhouse (Author). | |
To Order: $15 hardcover, $10 paperback, plus $4.95 shipping. Send check/M.O. to Christopher Weills, P.O. Box 4515, Berkeley, CA 94704 | | |
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Advertise in Sports Today!
* Reach thousands of fans on a weekly basis
* Economical rates
* Sponsorship opportunities
Call (510) 414-5394 or write acooke3495@aol.com
Ann Cooke, Director of Sales
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5980 Stoneridge Drive, Ste. 122
Pleasanton, CA 94588-2723
CalBRE License #:01770629
Agent 510.512.2145
Office 925.847.8900
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Many people -- maybe even you -- have been getting out on their bikes more during Shelter-in-Place. "Check for Bikes" clings and bumper stickers are great ways to keep bicyclists safer out there on the road by promoting awareness by drivers to share the road. Keep safe out there and keep your neighbors safe by using or passing along vinyl clings for inside a car window or windshield and 4" circular bumper stickers. We have Youth and
Spanish versions, too!
Go to www.checkforbikes.org or email contact@checkforbikes.org
with questions or to order.
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The Ultimate Sports Guide is very appreciative to the ongoing contributions made by former staff photographer Kenny Karst and Robert Moselle. Mr. Karst, now retired, continues to contribute helpful ideas and his archives.
Mr. Moselle, Esq. is now lending his extensive editorial experience and marketing savvy to the publication.
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