As we all know Red Sox Nation is world-wide. Daily we meet people from Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut who are PawSox fans that make several trips to McCoy during the season. There are companies that host their annual events with a BBQ, group outing or a hospitality suite. There are groups of relatives and friends who purchase the discounted group tickets and head out for a fun night with the PawSox. But what about our neighbors to the north?

Maine has the Portland Seadogs, the Double A team for Boston, but what about New Hampshire and Vermont? Through the years I have met fans at McCoy Stadium from New Hampshire and Vermont, but wondered just how it would be to jump in the PawsMobile and head there to see for myself. On Saturday before the sun was up I jumped in the PawsMobile and headed north. While everyone seems to be heading south for spring training, I chose the opposite direction.

Before long I enter New Hampshire. It’s a gorgeous day with the sun shining.

Being that I left before the sun came up, I feel those hunger pangs and in need of some vittles. Soon I find the ideal place. The Swanzey Diner located where else? Swanzey, N.H.

  I park the van and head in. As I was heading in I met this very nice couple who arrived at the same time, Ryan and Kay who are PawSox fans! Ryan told me he has been to McCoy and I knew he was on the level because he even explained how he liked the berm area. Once inside it was just as I expected, very friendly where everyone knew each other. I was met by Judy who told me to sit anywhere I’d like. After taking my order and being certain my coffee cup was always full, Judy returned with this fantastic omelet with home fries mixed with onions. It was one of the best I ever ate.

 I bid farewell to my new friends, Ryan, Kay and Judy and head out. It didn’t take long at all to find a few PawSox fans up north!

Now I have a few new friends and a full belly and enjoying the postcard type scenery. The mountains are tremendous, although I do enjoy the comfortable heat inside the van.

Not long after, I’m in Vermont.

I pass the Vermont Kissing Bridge, since I am solo this bridge does not affect me at all!

I see Bear Crossing signs and I hope to see one. With that said, I want to see one from a distance, not one making any attempt to gain entrance to the PawsMobile to share the heat and check if Paws was in the van.

All along the way I meet some fantastic people. A lot wearing Red Sox gear. At a Country Store I met Mike who was wearing a PawSox cap! Driving through a small town, an American Legion Hall is having a Chicken BBQ. Right on the side of the road they have this huge grill set up and one of the fellas doused the chicken with special sauce from a sprayer.

It’s right on the side of the road in a parking spot. Inside the hall everyone is enjoying the feast.

I stop by Okemo Mountain. My skiing career lasted one weekend a long time ago. While in high school I had a couple of friends who were members of the ski club. Against my better judgement I gave into peer pressure and decided to give it a try. I enjoyed water skiing very much and quite frankly did it very well. There can’t be that much of a difference can there? Indeed there is. After purchasing new boots, skis and poles I was ready. The bus ride and time with friends was a fun time. Skiing was not! I made the decision to skip any type of lessons or instructions and headed right to the slopes with my friends. Big mistake. My first time didn’t go very well at all. After going about 14 feet my skis crossed and I fell and tumbled a bit. The second time was even worse as I tumbled down the side of the mountain for what seemed like hours. Once I got all the snow out of my shirt, pants, ears, nose, mouth, etc…I took my skis off got the ski lift back to the top, and sold my skis and poles to some guy. My boots I gave to a friend a few days later. However, I do enjoy watching people swoosh down the mountain.

In Vermont with the PawsMobile where would one stay? The Answer….The Paw House!

The Paw House is a beautiful Bed & Breakfast that not only caters to their human guests but also your dog(s). The rooms have smaller doggie beds and during the summer months they even have outside movies for the dogs and the families. I have a great love for dogs, not only my own, but for all. I meet with the owner Mitch. He’s what you’d consider a very knowledgeable and dedicated Red Sox fan. He loves them! We spent time chatting a bit about the Sox and he explained how he would like to see Daniel Bard giving a chance as a starter. He admits that he has never been to McCoy and has heard nothing but great things about it. He promises to get there during the 2012 season. He also wants to give away a free night to his establishment to a lucky PawSox fan. Stay tuned as the details get worked out. More Sox fans were located up north with Mitch and his crew!

Its time to call it a day and get some rest. I do some reading, watch some TV and call it a night. I get a somewhat early start to head back home. I learn there is a snow and ice festival in Keene, N.H. so decide to swing by on the way back. In downtown Keene local business have ice sculptures outside their businesses.

They have activities for the kids that include a train ride and a small snow hill for them to go snow tubing.

Many people take photos standing alongside the PawsMobile. More Sox fans! It has been a fantastic trip up north. I learn there is a Saint Bernard day at Wachusett Mountain and want to check it. It’s right on the way home, so why not. As I watch people swooshing down the slopes I make my way over to the dogs. The New England Saint Bernard Club was there with their magnificent huge dogs! It was fun to make one last stop before heading back.

After getting back home today in the afternoon, I felt very thankful that we have such an awesome ballpark and team right in our own backyard! Although Red Sox Nation is world-wide, we are very fortunate to have them so close. Going to a PawSox game is always a fun experience. The excitement is building as we approach the homestretch for opening day. Looking very forward to seeing my new friends from up north during the 2012 season. They will also have a chance to see that we are………….”Here For You!”

Would love to hear from you…

Yours in Baseball,

Rick Medeiros                        rickm@pawsox.com

      It was Valentine’s Day PawSox style on Monday and Tuesday as Paws headed out to deliver roses, tickets and a new PawSox cap to the lucky recipients on this day of affection!

     I was the chauffeur, and Monday we headed to Acton, MA. to deliver 18 bundles of love to teachers. Paws spent a lot of time with the kids doing some dancing and giving them all a high-five. Needless to say, the teachers were all surprised seeing the Big Furry One head into their classroom and hand them all their goodies!

     It was surprise…

     After surprise….

      We headed to downtown Providence where Paws spread some more love and joy then took a stroll…

        Paws made a delivery to some young PawSox fans…

     We were treated to some great piano playing by the young girl who played very well! Paws did his best to help, but hit every sour note…

      Paws covered the young girls eyes with his huge paw and she continued on without missing a beat!

      Paws even delivered roses package to Durfee High School during half-time of the basketball game!

         He also posed for photos with the cheerleaders.

      Valentine’s Day is special for so many people. It’s also a very special day for the baseball fan who knows the equipment trucks are warming up to head south for spring training. Baseball is in the air!  You can feel it!

    Please check out the PawSox website at pawsox.com and check out all the pictures, videos and information. Be certain to check out the “45 Minutes to Fenway” blog from new radio broadcaster Aaron Goldsmith. It’s always a great read and I am a huge fan.

  So far it’s been a relatively mild winter and I dont mind it a bit and hope it continues. Opening night is approaching at a good clip so make sure you’re ready! Get tickets at the website, online or give us a call at 401-724-7300. We will help you in any way. As you well know…we are…”Here For You!”

  I would love to hear from you!

   Yours in Baseball,

   Rick Medeiros           rickm@pawsox.com

Just in case you havent heard, PawSox Team President Mike Tamburro was elected into the International League Hall of Fame at the end of last month. Mike joins former PawSox elites Wade Boggs, Joe Morgan, Jim Rice and the late PawSox owner Ben Mondor. For those who know Mike, you see the passion he has for the PawSox and the fans. During any game you can find Mike walking throughout the stadium meeting fans and taking the time to chat. For nearly 40 years he and Mr. Mondor pioneered what has become one of the best minor league franchises in the country. A record-breaking 5 time International League executive of the Year, the Hall of Fame honor was indeed earned and deserved. We all offer Mike T. Congrats!

From PawSox website

As for the Patriots last evening, it was anything but a hall of fame game for the fans. Watching the game there were so many levels of emotions. On the first play Tom Brady drops back and flings a pass into nowhere land. After a brief conference, the ref tosses the yellow flag for a grounding penalty. Anxiety quickly sets in as they have to kick the ball away. Only those with the number 2 for the football pool have a bit of a consultation.

Before the half is over, the Pats march down the field and take the lead and the excitement of another championship suddenly seems likely! Super Bowl parties are always an awesome time. Mike and Mel hosted another Super party! A slew of great friends and a ton of fantastic food make the game enjoyable and takes the sting out just a bit of the painful loss. Almost everyone is wearing Pats gear. Mel welcomes everyone to the party by flashing her Bruschi shirt.

  Brenda sent a photo of Vegas and Fenway ready for the game!

 There are other furry friends who want to enjoy the Puppy Bowl..

 Every kind of food is available! Shrimp, dips, sweets and everything in between. For the appetizers there is home cooked real french fries and ribs.

   The Cheerleaders do their best to cheer on the Pats!

When Welker is unable to hold onto the pass, there is sadness amongst us

  Mike begins the process for the clam/little neck boil. First poured into the monster pot is some fresh water, olive oil, garlic, crushed red pepper, abit of wine and beer. Once that starts to simmer in goes the ’taters and onions.

Time for the hot dogs 

Step by step it all comes together nicely!

     Can one ever have a clam boil without some Portuguese Chorico?  IMPOSSIBLE!

     The little necks have been soaked, cleaned and now ready to place atop all the items placed in the monster pot. 

     Once the game is over, we all indulge in some “Comfort Food.”  Being with such fine folks and fantastic food makes it a little easier as we all go back to the old New England adage, “Wait’ll Next Year!”  

    It was certainly an exciting season for the New England Patriots. Some so-called experts said the Pats would never make it through the first round. It was a close game. A bounce that goes their way, if Welker catches that pass, if they recover the fumble with only 11 guys on the field, it could have been a different outcome.

  One outcome you can always count on is having a great time at McCoy Stadium. On Friday evening I had dinner with some of the PawSox Season Ticket Holders. As always there are lots of laughs and fun stories!

    We are another day closer to opening day on April 5th, 2012. Visit pawsox.com right now for the schedule and some of the special events and promotions. Dont forget to grab some flex tickets for the 2012 season. If you have any questions, please call 401-724-7300 and a PawSox staff will be more than happy to assist you. Come see and chat with our season tickets holders and I bet they will all tell you we are………”Here For You!”

I would love to hear from you!

     Yours in Baseball,

      Rick Medeiros               rickm@pawsox.com 

As long as this somewhat mild winter lasts, I’ll take it! With that being said I’m sure that we have a few storms ahead of us but we all must remember that with each passing day we are one day closer to Opening Night at McCoy Stadium on April 5th.

I know in the past I have discussed what the PawSox staff does during the off-season. We all prepare for the next season. A part of preparing is getting out in the community meeting PawSox fans and getting feed back from what they like and what the PawSox could do to improve. If you were at this years Hot Stove Party, Team President Mike Tamburro and General Manager Lou Schwechheimer hosted a “Town Meeting” in the visitors clubhouse to listen to what the fans had to say.

Networking with businesses in the region is also an important component of off-season prep. The PawSox belong to almost every Chamber of Commerce in the region. The staff attend many Chamber events. Every week, area chambers have breakfast meetings, business luncheons and on set days throughout the month, they will host a Business After Hours.

These events are held and various businesses throughout the region. At these events you get to meet with business owners and their employees from every business known to mankind. From the president of a bank, to a young man who has a successful dog walking business, its hard to find someone who isn’t a fan of going to McCoy regardless of what team they cheer for.

At these events, you get to speak with full season ticket and flex ticket holders. You ask if they had any issues and/or concerns the previous season. You also spend time with sponsors who did some advertising withe the PawSox and be certain they were happy. At all the events you have an opportunity to discuss all the group outing options the PawSox have. The BBQ area, the Suites or just a group coming out to a game and the discounted group rate. I always enjoy meeting new people and of course chatting with PawSox fans.

Let me give you an example of what a few of these networks events are like. On Wednesday I attended a business after hours for the New Bedford area Chamber of Commerce. It was hosted by Carlos Maderia the owner of Cotali Mar, a Portuguese restaurant in New Bedford. It was my first time there, and the food was great! At every event there is always food! (Please keep all those comments to yourself) At every business after hours event, you put your business card in a bowl and they have a drawing to giveaway goods or services. On this night, it’s a $25 gift certificate for the restaurant. I was happy to hear the owner say my name as he pulled out the winning card!

On Thursday, Fall River Chamber business after hours was hosted by Rick Torres and held at his dealership in Fall River. As you can see there was plenty of good food and even a little sting band.

   You can see that these events are well attended.

  The owner Rick Torres is giving away a flat screen TV! Unfortunately, I don’t win it, but had a great time anyway. 

    On Friday, the Tri-Town Chamber of Commerce covering Norton, Mansfield and Foxboro has their Annual Awards luncheon held this year at the Holiday Inn in Mansfield. I get to meet a lot of new PawSox fans and business owners interested in having an outing at McCoy. Seated at the same table as me is PawSox full season ticket holder Dave Santoro. Dave is surprised to learn he wins the Tri-Town Ambassador of the Year Award. Great Job Dave!

  The guest speaker for the luncheon is Josh Kraft the son of New England Patriot owner Bob Kraft. He talks about his mentoring program for inner city and at risk youth. Of course ending his speech with a great big GO PATS!

    Speaking of the Pats, the Super Bowl is one week away. I feel pretty confident the Pats bring Lombardi home! If you recall a couple of years ago while in Indianapolis I went to Lucas Oil Field. I had a chance to go onto the field of play and secretly cast a spell that will always favor the Patriots when they play at the venue. I hope the spell has not worn off.
 

     Remember, another day closer to Opening Night! You wont want to miss the fun and exciting season ahead. Visit pawsox.com for all promotions and special events. We look forward to seeing you there. I’d love to hear from you and never forget that we are………..:”Here For You!”

Yours in Baseball,

Rick Medeiros                  rickm@pawsox.com

Last evening, Thursday,  was the 73rd Annual Baseball Writers Award Dinner held at the Westin Copely Hotel in Boston. We always look forward to this fantastic event. We choose a meeting point and it’s decided we would meet at Dave & Busters in Braintree right near the South Shore Plaza. Upon arrival there, new PawSox Broadcaster Aaron Goldsmith takes the lead and heads in. As everyone knows by now, Aaron has replaced Dan Hoard. There were more than 150 applicants for gig and Aaron was the one that got the job. We all wish him the best, and welcome him into the PawSox Family.

It appears Aaron fits right in and digs into the “Mountain of Nachos.”

We all enjoy some wings, sliders, fries, snap peas, and what was left of the nachos once Aaron was done ripping into them. We get our tickets and head off to Boston.

We arrive at the hotel a short while later. They are not bashful in charging around 30 bucks for parking. We make our way up the escalators where we are greeted by a Ragtime Band and Wally the Green Monster.

Also, a pretty impressive sight of this young lady painted entirely in this silver tone color. She was walking by and when I asked for a photo she immediately froze. Well done!

Everyone is gathered outside the ballroom for the time being. They have Cracker Jack and Popcorn. The sportswriters are gathered around and a lot of the discussion is not only baseball, but also the upcoming Pats game. Here Sean McAdam and Nick Cafardo chat it u with some folks. McAdam will be introducing the head table.

I head into the ballroom where the event will take place. It’s still empty, but I do see this years award winner for Red Sox Rookie of the Year Josh Reddick. I congratulate Josh on his award and will miss his knowledge on country music. Josh is heading to Oakland for the 2012 season and we wish him luck. He is talking with another award winner of the Good Guy Award, Jarrod Saltalamacchia.

The dais is presently empty, but soon will be filled with the award winners and presenters. They have a big screen on either side that’s used to play videos for some of the award winners.

I find our table….number 18. Great location. I stake my claim on a seat. However, I do have an eye on those dinner rolls across from me.

One of the annual attendees at the event is Lynn. Always dressed in her Red Sox duds!

After McAdam announces the head table, Sports Guy Karl Ravech takes over as the emcee for the event. He introduces the whole head table.

I Check the menu and realize I have never had what they are serving. First it was the salad.

I was curious to learn what a roasted bosc pear timbale blue cheese, etc….was all about!  I soon found out! A small mix of edible ingredients that you pour the emulsion on. Prior to this evening I always called it dressing. Perhaps I need to get out more. Its served on a flat plate, requiring you to use a piece of the dinner roll to prevent the escape of any of the ingredients off the side of the plate. It was very good.

While waiting for the entrée there is an autograph session for those 16 and under. PawSox catcher Ryan Lavarnway and former PawSox pitcher Tommy Hottovy are both getting awards this evening. Ryan for Red Sox Minor League Player of the Year and Tommy is being presented with the Lou Gorman Award. Hottovy will be spending the 2012 season in the KC Royals organization.

Red Sox General Manager Ben Cherington and Big Papi David Ortiz seem to be in a serious conversation.

It’s time for the entrée. Once again, I never heard or eaten what I read from the menu…

Here it is!  I still don’t get the “New Potatoes” Thing. They look like home fries to me!

The program gets underway. They show a great video of Josh Reddick before he gets presented his award. I get a shot of his big bubble in the dugout!

Reddick accepts his award and thanks the Sox for everything and in his parting words lets us all know he will be at Fenway with Oakland to beat the Sox at the end of April.

Do you think Big Papi just let new Red Sox Manager Bobby Valentine know he is going to slug 75 home runs?

John McDonald gets the Ben Mondor New England Player of the Year Award. John played for the Jays and was traded in August to the Diamondbacks. It’s a beautiful award.

One of my favorite Red Sox Players Jim Lonborg was there for the Special Achievement Award. I remember my dad taking me to Fenway Park for the first time when I was 7 years old. On my 10th birthday, Dad and I went to a game at Fenway and I got to meet and shake hands with Mr. Lonborg. Before getting his award, he chats a bit with Tom Werner.

Every year Gentleman Jim Lonborg comes to a game with a large group of adults and kids. Time for you to get your tickets also! Call 401-724-7300 or visit pawsox.com.

The event was an awesome time. Sharing some food I’ve never had before with some great co-workers. It was time to head back. One of the guys gets a call from his wife saying it’s snowing hard in RI, yet here in Boston there is no sign of any snow. That all changed as I was traveling down route 24. After leaving Braintree there were a few flakes. It got progressively worse as I continued. This was the view I had!

I was able to travel at a speed of 12-21 mph!  Of course you always have those knuckleheads with their 4 wheel drive thinking they can just plow through at a high rate of speed. As I was maneuvering my way along a straight portion if the highway, this four-wheel drive past going too fast. I thought to myself, “It’s only a matter of time.”  It was actually a very short matter of time. As the driver passed another vehicle you could see it fishtail and start to spin. The driver was unable to gain control of the vehicle and as I passed saw the front end of their vehicle crushed against the median guard rail. I was going to stop and make sure everyone was alright and was in the process of pulling over and saw this guy get out wearing a t-shirt and a Yankee hat. He started the kicking the guard rail and throwing his arms in the air. Figuring he was ok, I continued on my way.

Always use caution driving in the snow. I am not a snow lover and hope this is all the snow we get. However, I am a warm day/night person and hope for every PawSox home game is played in great weather. Come on out to McCoy, don’t forget the Flex Tickets! Join the fun and see firsthand that we are…………”Here For You!”

Would love to hear from you!

Yours in Baseball

Rick Medeiros                             rickm@pawsox.com

We would like to wish you all a very Healthy and Happy New Year!

While celebrating a quiet New Years Eve with family and friends, I got a text message from Paws saying he saw there was going to be a Polar Bear Plunge in Newport on New Years Day and he wanted to attend. It does indeed make sense. After all, Paws is a Polar Bear so I’m sure we can all understand his interest. He stated that he would be going solo because Sox said she really didn’t enjoy the beach sand.

This morning Paws and I arrive at Easton’s Beach (1st Beach) It’s a beautiful morning and the sun is shining bright. I am the first to admit I am NOT a cold weather person but Paws doesn’t mind any type of climate. The beach is just about empty.

The Polar Bear Plunge held annually on New Years Day has been a fund-raiser for a Wish Come True for about the last 17 years. Volunteers begin to arrive to accept donations and also sell some great towels.

The Newport Polar Bear Club has been doing this since 1969! They meet every Sunday during the winter at this beach and go for a swim! I’m told they will arrive in a limo around 11:30. The day stays bright with a temperature around 48 degrees. Still not the weather I have any desire to jump into the ocean. Paws is chomping at the bit and wants in. More people start arriving.

It is a festive atmosphere. Drummers have arrived early and keep your toes tapping. More people start arriving. Some bring their beach chairs.

They have a nice statue near the Rotunda at the beach from family services, but I cant help but wonder if that young girl is asking her dad to not take the “Cold Plunge.”

One of the participants believes in safety first so he has equipped himself with some Swimmies.

People have some great costumes.

More people arrive…Paws begins to mingle with the crowd.

The Portuguese are well represented by some of the “Portuguese Princesses” who will be taking the plunge.

And more people start filling the beach…

Now the beach is packed!

People keep coming!  The Police have to shut down the road! Great Day, Great Turn out.

Now there is a sea of people who soon will be leaping into the sea! I get word that the Limo has arrived and Paws and I head over there. Paws is looking forward to meeting his brother and sister Polar Bears.

The Polar Bears arrive via the Limo and Paws meets every single one of them. A bagpipe will be leading the group to the sea as part of their annual march. They do allow other folks to join them even if they don’t swim every Sunday. They refer to them as Cubs. At 12 noon there is a mad dash for the water!

Perhaps there are thousands of people who “Take the Plunge!”

The Bag Pipes come to life  and Paws leads the way for the Polar Bears as they stroll towards the ocean.

As they head to the water, all the people make a path to allow the Annual March.

I warn Paws that we didn’t have a change of clothes so be careful. He headed towards the sea with his new friends!

Paws was the On Duty Life Guard and kept an eye on everyone.

A great photo from Dave Hansen of the Newport Daily News.

He took time to pose with fans. Everyone was yelling for Paws and even started a Paws Chant!

He also had the chance to pose with his brother Polar Bear!

We were also very fortunate to meet Colin. Colin just turned 11 recently and has been battling a rare form of cancer. Todays event will help Colin and his family. We all wish Colin and his family all the best!

It was a great day! Paws reminded everyone to not forget January 13th from 6-9:00 pm to come see him at the annual Hot Stove Party right at McCoy Stadium. Paws and Sox should be the only Polar Bears there, but he did invite all his new friends. Paws also wants to repeat what we all say all the time….we are………”Here For You!”

Happy New Year!

Would love to hear from you!

Your Friend in Baseball,

Rick Medeiros            rickm@pawsox.com

Hope everyone is having a great Holiday Season thus far. With the New Year mere days away, the PawSox Hot Stove gets stoked up!

On Christmas Eve, Santa Claus and Santa Paws once again loaded up the Paws Sleigh and delivered toys to some of those who have been struggling a bit. Here Santa stands outside the Sleigh with a game the whole family can play. He puts the game in his sack with the other toys and makes the delivery much to the delight of the youngsters who are filled with glee to receive a special visit from both Santa and Paws!

Santa and Paws got an early start and worked throughout the evening. Santa and Paws took some time to pose for pictures with some of the family members.

     As we all get prepared to celebrate the New Year in our own way, there is one date you want to mark on your calendar. Lucky Friday the 13th of January. From 6-9 pm, McCoy Stadium host their annual Hot Stove Party! PawSox Skipper Arnie Beyeler is scheduled to be there along with players, Brandon Duckworth, Alex Wilson, Luis Exposito and Alex Hassan. There will be a Q&A an autograph session, and as always the best hot dogs for your dinner. Lest we forget, its all FREE!

   Of course the ticket office will remain open so you can get in on the Flex Tickets. The PawSox Offices are closed until January 3rd so you can call and order all your tickets via phone at 401-724-7300. You can also order them online at pawsox.com.

     I look forward to seeing you all at the Hot Stove Party! The motto for the 2012 season is “Have A Ball!” What better way to start off the new year by having a ball at the Hot Stove Party!  See you there, and you can see we are all………”Here For You!”

   Yours in Baseball,

   Rick Medeiros    rickm@pawsox.com

Hello PawSox Fans!

     After all the planning, shopping, putting up decorations, deciding on whose house and what to cook, its time to spend some quality time with family and friends. As the days click by, it gets ever closer to April 5th, 2012. Opening Night at McCoy Stadium. I have asked Santa to make it a quick and mild winter. Hope he comes through.

    I’m sure this final week will be the same hustle and bustle for all those who procrastinated like myself. You have to look at it with a sense of humor and not allow yourself to get stressed out. One way to beat the stress I found was to shop at the PawSox Team Store and grab some Flex Tickets which make great gifts for everyone!  

   Last week we had the PawSox Christmas Party at Flemmings. The food was fantastic! Each year it’s fun to celebrate with your co-workers. Eric, the guy who runs the team store is offering some great package deals on PawSox gear. Eric was telling me about some of the special deals before we mug for the camera.

    Team President Mike Tamburro takes a moment with PawSox PR/Media Guru Bill Wanless, and Official Scorer Bruce Guinden.

Former PawSox announcer and current Boston Bruins announcer Jim Martin was there sporting his Stanley Cup Ring. It’s about the size of a potato!

     On Saturday, Santa Paws once again took part in Operation Christmas. There he met with families handing out high fives to all the youngsters. Being the animal lover he is, he posed for a photo with Winston.

   Operation Christmas gives out toys to help out those who need a bit of a helping hand. It’s wonderful to see all the volunteers helping round-up the toys and give them to the families. There are rows of toys on tables that are labeled to be age appropriate.

      Every child gets a new hat and a pair of gloves.

    Of course Santa Paws took some time to pose! He did indulge in a few chocolate donuts causing his shirt to un-snap.

       Santa Paws wanted to take a photo with Barbara and Rene. Barbara spearheads the Operation Christmas event and Rene is responsible for running the telethon which generates the revenues to buy the children’s toys.

It truly is a terrific program. I’m sure I speak for everyone to offer a huge “Thank You!” to all those who make it all work. I had the opportunity yesterday to speak with a nice woman who explained to me that she has been on “both sides of the line.”  She used to be in line waiting for toys for her children. Now she waits in line as a volunteer holding a big durable trash bag waiting to help the next person.

    Make sure your check list is complete. Be certain to have on your list the flex tickets. Undated, good for any regular season game in 2012, now that surely beats Clark Griswold Jelly of the Month Club!

     A quick drawing was made of a potential position player making his way to McCoy in 2012. The face looks a bit familiar, but I just can’t recall the name…..Be well, Be Safe and Merry Christmas…………If you need anything, remember we are…………”Here For You!”

   Yours in Baseball,

    Rick Medeiros        rickm@pawsox.com

    Want to make certain everyone is aware that tickets for the 2012 PawSox season are now on sale just in time for Christmas!

   Santa Paws has been active as always around the Christmas Holiday season. Last weekend, Paws took part in the Operation Christmas telethon at Harbor Mall in Fall River. It’s a fun raiser to benefit those families that have fallen on a bit of hard times, and the funds raised will go to purchasing toys and games for the children in the family.  Here, Paws does a little dance!

   The new PawSox Broadcasting job is coming along and entering the final stages. There are approximately 6 finalist for the job. Stay tuned!

   Dont forget to visit pawsox.com and do some shopping for some terrific gifts from the PawSox Team Store.

   I just had my computer tuned up and have lost all the photos. I miss the pictures but stay tuned! There will be other pictures shortly!   Lest we forget, in 2012 we will be………..”Here For You!”

    Yours in Baseball,

    Rick Medeiros

      The whole PawSox Staff is having a busy off-season preparing for the 2012 season. Lining up the sponsors, taking flex ticket orders and handling requests for Full Season Tickets. The 2012 PawSox schedule was just released and soon the promotion games will be firmed up and added to the schedule.

     Of course during the course of the workday we get hungry. One of the great benefits of working for the PawSox is you never have to worry about a meal. During the season, executive Chef Ken cooks for the entire staff. For lunch Ken will make anything from Shepard’s Pie to Chicken Parm! We always have fresh cold-cuts and bread to make sandwiches. There will be a couple of sides like carrots, red bliss smashed potatoes and soup. Always an awesome variety. On game days, Ken is responsible for cooking all the food for the suites, the press box, the staff and all the players and coaches…..from both teams!

    During the off-season, Ken’s opens Ken’s Deli and provides us with lunch. Here’s how it works. In the main office there is a menu you order your deli sandwiches from. You fill them out and put them in the basket. Ken also posts the specials of the day.

     On this day I choose the tuna on multi-grain pita bread, lettuce, onions and of course lots of hot peppers!

     We can take our lunch break when we have a chance. There is delicious soup every day and sides. Here is my lunch for the day!

    Like every day, it taste fantastic! After lunch it’s time to get back to taking orders for group outings and flex ticket packages. Game tickets go on sale December 10th at the Free PawSox Christmas Party! Mark that date on your calendar, you don’t want to miss it. You can order your flex tickets now and on the 10th any staff member can fill your order while you’re at the Christmas party! Or, you can choose to do it by phone or right at home via computer.

     We also have some premium season tickets available in every section! You can come to the stadium and take your seat for a test drive! So head to the stadium, give us a call to learn all the benefits of Full Season Tickets! Just like the entire PawSox Staff, the season tickets are also…………….”Here For You!”        

   Drop me a note at rickm@pawsox.com

     Yours in Baseball,

      Rick Medeiros