Title: Guess Who Is Singing God Bless America At...
Description: the opening of the new Nationals Park?
Description: the opening of the new Nationals Park?
mike83 - March 26, 2008 06:24 PM (GMT)
I am not going to ruin it for you. You can just read this press release instead.
I will be there, and I am really excited. I'll be in Section 318, between Home and 1st.
I will be there, and I am really excited. I'll be in Section 318, between Home and 1st.
| QUOTE |
| Nationals Park readies for its debut Before Sunday's national game, team prepares for test run By Michael Phillips / Special to MLB.com WASHINGTON -- Three days remain until the question gets answered: What kind of first impression can you buy for $611 million? Nationals Park -- the latest, greatest, most modern stadium money can buy -- opens its doors on Saturday night to 25,000 fans. And months of planning, construction and marketing will all take a backseat as people decide what they think of it all. Every aspect of the stadium will be analyzed, from the modern architecture to the price of a half-smoke. In addition, it will be the first night for most of the stadium staff, who will help guide fans around the park. Team president Stan Kasten addressed the workers and emphasized that the Nationals' reputation was in their hands. "What they are known for is how they treat people, and this staff here is superb and welcoming," Kasten said. "Fans notice how they're treated, and they won't get treated better anywhere than at Nationals Park." The attention to detail is evident in all aspects of the ballpark's construction. The building was designed so that most fans will be able to walk straight to their seat from the main level. They'll be able to get food from the concourse, where they can still see the action on the field, and in a radical improvement over RFK Stadium, they'll be able to see and hear the in-game entertainment from a state-of-the-art video board and sound system. Kasten and his crew have been working around the clock all week to ensure that it's all ready for the big weekend, which starts with Saturday's exhibition game against the Orioles. The tickets went to season-ticket holders, construction workers who worked on the park, and residents of the southeast Washington neighborhood that houses the stadium. About 25,000 were issued to keep the crowds manageable and allow the team to identify any potential trouble spots before Sunday's opener. While Sunday's game against the Braves will take on a national feel, with an ESPN television audience and President Bush scheduled to throw out the first pitch, Saturday will be about the local forces who helped the stadium take shape. Pregame ceremonies will begin at 3:30 p.m. ET, with former Washington Senators public-address announcers Charlie Brotman and Phil Hochberg emceeing. At 5:30 p.m., Kasten will address the crowd, followed by other local dignitaries, such as D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty. Kasten will spend the game running around collecting feedback on all aspects of the operation. Transportation will also be closely watched, as the brand-new Navy Yard Metro station will get its first large test, along with the free shuttle buses, which will begin running at 3 p.m. from the parking lots at RFK Stadium. "It's complicated taking care of 41,000 people. It really is," Kasten said. "But we have professionals every step of the way, which is how it all comes together. "I wish we had another month because of the tight construction schedule, but we have a staff that has worked hard with everything that has occurred." Capacity at the stadium has officially been set at 41,888, and that will be the crowd on Sunday night as the Nationals open their season against the Braves. Most of that crowd got its tickets months ago, but the $5 day-of-game outfield seats will be available as well. The gates will open at 3:30 p.m. for an 8:15 start to allow fans time to get through security and find their way to the stadium by Metro or car. Half Street, the pedestrian walkway between the Metro and the stadium's entrance, is still under construction, but the Nationals will make it come alive with several local bands and entertainers. Pregame festivities will be simplified to include a flyover, a national anthem and the first pitch from Bush. Washingtonian Denyce Graves will sing the anthem, and Richmond, Va., native Elliot Yamin will sing God Bless America during the seventh-inning stretch. While the atmosphere will be raucous, the ballpark won't be shaking like the bleachers did at RFK. As the stadium was assembled, fans speculated that it wouldn't get done during the various stages, but the construction team has delivered its final product to the Nationals in time for an opening inspection from fans this weekend. Baseball will be played in Nationals Park for decades to come, but there can be only one first impression. Michael Phillips is a contributor to MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball |
harleywoman - March 26, 2008 06:26 PM (GMT)
LOL We already knew he was going to be there, it's on his myspace. But you're going that's an added bonus. :woohoo:
I know you'll take some good pics and report back, right! I'm so excited for you.
I know you'll take some good pics and report back, right! I'm so excited for you.
VirginiaNana - March 26, 2008 06:26 PM (GMT)
I am so glad that you will be able to be there, Mike! Have a wonderful time and I'll be anxiously awaiting your recap. Have fun.
Efan2 - March 26, 2008 06:26 PM (GMT)
Mike, it is good to hear from you. Thanks for the news. I hope Elliott will be shown on TV.
mike83 - March 26, 2008 06:30 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (harleywoman @ Mar 26 2008, 01:26 PM) |
| LOL We already knew he was going to be there, it's on his myspace. But you're going that's an added bonus. :woohoo: I know you'll take some good pics and report back, right! I'm so excited for you. |
It has just been tough lately, I will try to visit more often. Obviously I need to read his myspace more often. I know I can't meet him there, because there will be like 42,000 people and the security because of Bush will be insane.
wee_moggie - March 26, 2008 06:32 PM (GMT)
Mike, how cool that you are going to be there!
I'm sure the new park will be awesome. Between home and first is a great place to be. That way you can also see the home team's dugout.
ETA: Just saw your post. Sorry things have been tough for you lately.
I'm sure the new park will be awesome. Between home and first is a great place to be. That way you can also see the home team's dugout.
ETA: Just saw your post. Sorry things have been tough for you lately.
mike83 - March 26, 2008 06:34 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (wee_moggie @ Mar 26 2008, 01:32 PM) |
| Mike, how cool that you are going to be there! I'm sure the new park will be awesome. Between home and first is a great place to be. That way you can also see the home team's dugout. |
Section 318
wee_moggie - March 26, 2008 06:38 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (mike83 @ Mar 26 2008, 10:34 AM) | ||
Section 318 |
Oh wait, maybe not! :rotfl:
Interesting, AT&T Park has the home team's dugout on the opposite side than this park. I thought they were all the same; apparently not.
The good thing is that Elliott should be facing you! (I hope; now I'm not sure about anything, :rotfl: )
:elliottcap2:
mike83 - March 26, 2008 06:43 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (wee_moggie @ Mar 26 2008, 01:38 PM) | ||||
Oh wait, maybe not! :rotfl: Interesting, AT&T Park has the home team's dugout on the opposite side than this park. I thought they were all the same; apparently not. The good thing is that Elliott should be facing you! |
They are selling on Stubhub for 175-4000 dollars a piece and everyone wants to go to this. One advantage of being disabled is that it is slightly easier to get seating. I still had to call on the phone and found out later, even in 45 min after the sale started handicap was sold out as well. Normal tickets sold out in less than 5 min.
Obviously I am excited about going, but I unfortunately have to go to NIH the next day so I will be tired all day Monday. It will be worth it, and with Elliott singing that is just icing on the cake.
harleywoman - March 26, 2008 06:46 PM (GMT)
I have a co-worker that has registered for everything trying to get tickets. My boss has season tickets. I told him he'd BETTER report back to ME on Elliott. LOL
mike83 - March 26, 2008 06:50 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (harleywoman @ Mar 26 2008, 01:46 PM) |
| I have a co-worker that has registered for everything trying to get tickets. My boss has season tickets. I told him he'd BETTER report back to ME on Elliott. LOL |
Does anyone know where Elliott will be seating? I have a feeling they will put him in a cozy suite. I doubt I could meet him that night, but always worth a shot in asking. If Brandon can get a hold of him, let him know I'm in Section 318 Row J.
imthesame - March 26, 2008 06:50 PM (GMT)
This is so great, Mike!
hip-yamized - March 26, 2008 07:02 PM (GMT)
uh-oh I have a feeling we'll see the Orioles Cap again (j/k) :elliottcap:
nanassetta - March 26, 2008 07:12 PM (GMT)
Great news Mike! Have a blast. My mom will be right by you!
wee_moggie - March 26, 2008 07:14 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (hip-yamized @ Mar 26 2008, 11:02 AM) |
| uh-oh I have a feeling we'll see the Orioles Cap again (j/k) :elliottcap: |
Where has it been? I'd much rather he wore that than that Dodgers cap!
(hee hee nanab!)
pdlvne - March 26, 2008 07:14 PM (GMT)
Mike that is so cool! :rocker:
mike83 - March 26, 2008 07:18 PM (GMT)
Hopefully ESPN will show it, they usually do show God Bless America I think. If he wears an O's cap I think he will have stuff thrown at him (and I'd join in)
We hate the O's and their owner is a huge jerk
We hate the O's and their owner is a huge jerk
nanassetta - March 26, 2008 07:22 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (mike83 @ Mar 26 2008, 02:18 PM) |
| Hopefully ESPN will show it, they usually do show God Bless America I think. If he wears an O's cap I think he will have stuff thrown at him (and I'd join in) We hate the O's and their owner is a huge jerk |
:rotfl: You are right on Mike! :elliottcap2:
itslate - March 26, 2008 08:02 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (mike83 @ Mar 26 2008, 01:34 PM) | ||
Section 318 |
Mike that's totally awesome that you will hear Elliott sing live! And to be at the first game of the new park. My family will be routing for the Braves though lol.
I went to a Nats game last year vs the phillies... anything will be an improvement over the field they used for baseball last year. I think it's the worst one I've been to... and we've been to quite a few parks.
I'll be looking for you on tv :)... I already have it set on my DVR. Great seats for that game too!
itslate - March 26, 2008 08:06 PM (GMT)
Mike why don't you bring a BIG sign! Welcome Elliott and go Nats too of course... they always make it on tv and the jumbotrons.
chattycb - March 26, 2008 08:06 PM (GMT)
Very cool, Mike. Have a great time and be sure to report back to us (if you're feeling up to it, that is.)
ggma6 - March 27, 2008 02:46 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (itslate @ Mar 26 2008, 03:02 PM) | ||||
Mike that's totally awesome that you will hear Elliott sing live! And to be at the first game of the new park. My family will be routing for the Braves though lol. I went to a Nats game last year vs the phillies... anything will be an improvement over the field they used for baseball last year. I think it's the worst one I've been to... and we've been to quite a few parks. I'll be looking for you on tv :)... I already have it set on my DVR. Great seats for that game too! |
I have to tape it on VCR. What time should I start taping to be sure to see Elliott?
itslate - March 27, 2008 04:07 AM (GMT)
ggma6 I started 30 maybe 45 min before the game. Well just to be sure I don't miss it and all is running fine :). I'm thinking it may also be on MLB tv after the game, not live. One from last year was.
KittyloverforElliott - March 27, 2008 04:27 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (mike83 @ Mar 26 2008, 01:24 PM) |
| I am not going to ruin it for you. You can just read this press release instead. I will be there, and I am really excited. I'll be in Section 318, between Home and 1st. |
Mike I hope you have a great time and if possible, would you bring a camera and record his singing then share with us?
ggma6 - March 27, 2008 04:50 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (itslate @ Mar 26 2008, 11:07 PM) |
| ggma6 I started 30 maybe 45 min before the game. Well just to be sure I don't miss it and all is running fine :). I'm thinking it may also be on MLB tv after the game, not live. One from last year was. |
Thanks. What time is the game? Is it going to be on ESPN?
georgiafan1 - March 27, 2008 08:31 AM (GMT)
It's great that you will get to attend the game, Mike. :elliottcap2:
cfans - March 27, 2008 03:05 PM (GMT)
Mike, it's great to hear from you again and how wonderful that you're going to be at the game. I'm sure if it's possible, Elliott will want to see you again. I'm keeping my fingers crossed!
mike83 - March 27, 2008 03:11 PM (GMT)
The 7th inning stretch will not be until 10 at the earliest would be my guess. If you start recording at 9:30 you should be set. It is a TV game and usually games run 3 hours. It starts at 8, but he won't be singing until the middle of the 7th.
ggma6 - March 27, 2008 03:41 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (mike83 @ Mar 27 2008, 10:11 AM) |
| The 7th inning stretch will not be until 10 at the earliest would be my guess. If you start recording at 9:30 you should be set. It is a TV game and usually games run 3 hours. It starts at 8, but he won't be singing until the middle of the 7th. |
Thanks for the info. I'm excited about seeing Elliott on TV again.
:elliottelliott:
JackieB - March 27, 2008 04:15 PM (GMT)
Yeah, and singing G-d Bless America, he's bound to take his hat off and show off that cute new haircut . . .
nanab - March 27, 2008 04:59 PM (GMT)
Opening Day...new ballpark...Elliott Yamin... :hooray: :elliottcap2:
Playball....have a wonderful time Mike...
Playball....have a wonderful time Mike...
mike83 - March 27, 2008 08:53 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (JackieB @ Mar 27 2008, 11:15 AM) |
| Yeah, and singing G-d Bless America, he's bound to take his hat off and show off that cute new haircut . . . |
I'm sure they will broadcast him in HD on this beauty
MOMster - March 27, 2008 09:05 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (mike83 @ Mar 27 2008, 10:11 AM) |
| The 7th inning stretch will not be until 10 at the earliest would be my guess. If you start recording at 9:30 you should be set. It is a TV game and usually games run 3 hours. It starts at 8, but he won't be singing until the middle of the 7th. |
thanks for all the info, Mike! can't wait! I'll be visiting my sis in Orlando - I'm sure I can talk her and her husband into turning it on.
wowhesgood - March 27, 2008 09:11 PM (GMT)
Mike, have a great time!!! I'm quite jealous you'll get to hear/see Elliott. ;)
itslate - March 27, 2008 09:49 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (mike83 @ Mar 27 2008, 10:11 AM) |
| The 7th inning stretch will not be until 10 at the earliest would be my guess. If you start recording at 9:30 you should be set. It is a TV game and usually games run 3 hours. It starts at 8, but he won't be singing until the middle of the 7th. |
Duh you know... I'm reading God Bless America, but got it stuck in my hard head it's the Star Spangled Banner. I hope they do televise it.
It will be on Sunday on ESPN, game starts at 8PM EST. If anyone missed that. Make sure you have plenty of room on your tivo or DVR :). Yes, 7th inning stretch
baileyone - March 27, 2008 09:51 PM (GMT)
I will be in Section 136 near first base - I'll try to get some audio and pictures. Security is going to be crazy - and they are telling people to try to come early - gates open at 3:30 pm.
Linda4Elliott - March 27, 2008 09:53 PM (GMT)
Mike and Baileyone, I hope you have a great time!!! We'll look forward to anything you can get, pics, videos, and/or recaps of your night. Thanks!!!!
lovinelliott23 - March 27, 2008 09:54 PM (GMT)
Have a great time, Mike and baileyone!!
Sunny - March 28, 2008 04:34 PM (GMT)
Great to hear from you again, Mike. Hope you're feeling better. Have a great time at the game.
nanab - March 28, 2008 05:48 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (wee_moggie @ Mar 26 2008, 12:14 PM) | ||
Where has it been? I'd much rather he wore that than that Dodgers cap! (hee hee nanab!) |
lol.... :elliottcap2: :elliottcap2: :elliottcap2: :elliottcap2: