This Isn't L.A., It's Boston
Tonight, 7 of the 11 final candidates for president of Red Sox Nation gathered at The Baseball Tavern, near Fenway, to deliver five-minute campaign messages. I enjoyedmeeting the other candidates who were able to attend - Jared Carrabis,
Cheryl Boyd, Cindy Brown, Doris Kearns Goodwin, Sam Horn, and the
family of the creator of Big Pupi. Below is the message I delivered.
Hi. My name is Rob Crawford, and I’m not famous. I’m not a TV baseball personality. I’ve never played for the Red Sox. My face is not on a plaque in Cooperstown. I have not won a Pulitzer Prize. And I don’t have a column in the New York Daily News.
I have devoted my career to teaching kids, coaching kids, and raising money to support teachers and kids. I grew up in a Sox-crazed family in Brookline, and I’m now raising four children, ages 1 to 8, in a Red Sox house, and loving every day of it. Like you, I am a “regular fan.”
Now I call myself a “regular fan” with no disdain for my worthy, famous opponents. I know their love for the Red Sox is as real and as passionate as any of ours is. And I like all of them. And I really, really respect all of them. In fact, they have all achieved things that I would have liked to have achieved.
But Red Sox Nation has a choice to make in this election. Does Red Sox Nation want its first president to be someone famous
- someone for whom this office might be just another feather in his or
her cap? Or do they want their first president to be representative of
the “regular fan?” Someone whose life would be transfor
med by this honor? Someone who can relate to the millions of “regular” Red Sox fans around the world – because he/she is one?
I can see L.A. electing a celebrity to be president of Dodgers Nation or Lakers Nation -- but in Boston? Inconceivable.
So, what will I do if elected?
The first priority I would have as president of Red Sox Nation would be to improve ticket accessibility, and I’d start with a program called Red Sox Angels.
Have you ever had a conversation with someone that revealed to you that the other person’s life would be deeply touched by tickets to a Red Sox game? And you knew that if you owned season tickets, you would give that four tickets right there on the spot? Perhaps their spouse, who is a huge Red Sox, is in the final stages of terminal cancer, and tickets would enable him to say "goodbye” to Fenway. Or perhaps she's a single mother with three kids who’s struggling to make ends meet and could never conceive of taking her family to a game.
The Red Sox Angels program would put season tickets into the hands of Red Sox Angels across New England who would go through their daily lives looking and listening for people to give their tickets away to. Imagine the feeling of giving away Red Sox tickets to those who don’t expect it, and the feeling of receiving tickets when that’s precisely what you’re dreaming of! If the Red Sox were willing to donate 12 seats per year to this program, it would enable 24 Red Sox Angels to give away blocks of four tickets to ten games each season, resulting in 972 fans per year attending a game as a result of random but targeted generosity.
My second idea to improve ticket access is called, Sox Tix for Kids.
Almost no season ticket holder actually attends every Red Sox home game, and almost every season ticket h
older
would love to donate at least one game’s tickets to a group of children
who have never attended a game at Fenway, have no access to tickets to
Fenway, but really want to go to a game at Fenway.
I envision a program that asks season ticket holders, on their season ticket renewal form, to donate one or more games’ tickets to the Sox Tix for Kids program. By doing so, they would be making a tax-deductible donation and would be spreading Red Sox joy to kids who, without this gift of tickets, would not be able to get inside Fenway Park and experience its mystery and magic first hand. A thank you letter from the kids to the donor of the tickets would be part of the system, and this would help encourage season ticket holders to make this gift year after year.
How would we identify these kids who want to go to a game, but have no access to tickets? Perhaps we would partner with Boys and Girls Clubs around New England; perhaps we would partner with the Boston Public Schools. The details need to be fleshed out, but since we were able to figure out how to put seats on top of the Green Monster, I have no doubt we can figure out how to get season ticket holders’ tickets into the hands of baseball-dreaming kids.
My third idea is called, More Dirty Water.
As many of you know, I love music, and as part of my campaign, I co-wrote and recorded a song called, I’m A Member of Red Sox Nation. I
would love to use my platform as President of Red Sox Nation to bring
together outstanding Boston-area musicians and other musical members of
Red Sox Nation – famous and not-so-famous - to create a unique collection of 
great
songs about the Red Sox, about Fenway, and about being a Boston sports
fan. I envision all profits from this CD going to the Red Sox
Foundation to support local charities.
I just don’t think it would be very hard to rally Red Sox Nation’s greatest musical artists to participate in a project of this kind, and I imagine it would add a new dimension to Red Sox Nation’s fan experience while providing a windfall for the Red Sox Foundation and the local Boston charities they support. Plus, it would be a heck of a lot of fun.
Now, before I close, let me leave you with this thought: Years from now, when this election is over and the first president’s term is a distant memory, the 6 or 7 famous candidates – regardless of whether they win or lose this election - will look back on this whole Red Sox Nation thing as having been another pleasant public relations bonanza, another famous experience in a lifetime of famous experiences. But for those of us in this campaign who are “regular fans,” THIS is our one chance to rise from our dignified obscurity and make a far-reaching impact. THIS is our chance to so something extraordinary. I know that us “regular fans” would look back on our year as President of Red Sox Nation as the greatest thing we ever did in our lives. And you would look back on our tenure filled with pride for having helped elect a true, non-famous representative of Red Sox Nation.
Red Sox Nation, I thank you. Remember, this isn't L.A., it's Boston, and Red Sox Nation deserves a “regular fan” as its first president.
Rob--Your message is full of hope. If you are elected, I hope that you will really work with the kids who have NOTHING, the kids to whom no one pays attention, the kids whose schools have no paper, pens, pencils, computers, books, etc., and yet are still expected to ace the MCAS tests. These kids will never have a chance to go to Fenway Park or meet a player unless Red Sox Nation reaches out to them. As a former candidate for the presidency, I had a program for kids as well. We need to talk...
And sing...
Report any abuse or spam
Hey Rob! Sorry I didn't get to meet you last night. I like kids too. I like to tackle them and lick their faces. I loaded your song onto my iPod and I listen to it when I go out running and marking territory for Red Sox Nation. Good luck in your campaign!
Big Pupi
Report any abuse or spam
If only the elected officials of nations OTHER than Red Sox Nation were as sincere, as eloquent, as passionate, and as likeable as Regular Rob Crawford!
I've spent time reading all the contestants' blogs and there's no one who is more convincing. These goals are honorable, achievable, and MAGICAL. After all, that's what Fenway is. That's what the Red Sox are.
Being a member of Red Sox Nation, however you define it, is a magical, transformative experience. It takes millions of people--no matter their station in life--outside of their everyday existences and unites them in a passion that crosses all demographic boundaries. Whatever your station, be it hallowed or humble, living and dying by the Sox brings us all together.
You call yourself a "regular" fan--I contend that "regular" Red Sox fans are remarkable. No fan of any team in any sport in any nation is quite like a Red Sox fan. So, Remarkable Regular Rob, you've got my vote. And everyone else - you should give him yours, too!
Report any abuse or spam
Regular Rob,
Some great ideas you've put together. Its no wonder I overheard fellow Nation members talking about your candidacy at Camden Yards last week. Any chance you'd commit to using your power to get ellsbury an everyday spot in the lineup?
Report any abuse or spam
I'm writing from Seattle to tell you that all the Red Sox fans out here are fired up about your candidacy and the GREAT things you want to do as President. You're thinking big and making this matter to real people. GO REGULAR ROB!
Report any abuse or spam
Great song - it will be stuck in my head all night. Best of luck, Rob! You deserve to win...
Report any abuse or spam
I second the thoughts posted by lmoberg77!
Rob, you deserve this post because of your status as an average fan who wants to spread the experience of being part of Red Sox Nation to other average fans. I love your ideas and think they would be easy to implement! Good luck!!!
Report any abuse or spam
Wow. Inspirational and real. Red Sox Angels? Sox for Kids? Brilliant. Your priorities are in the right place and I wish you the best of luck, Rob. Regular Rob Rocks!
Report any abuse or spam
Hey Rob -- You are my hero!!! You would make an amazing President of Red Sox Nation. I love the idea of the Red Sox Angels, and I haven't been able to get your tune (I'm a member of the Red Sox Nation) out of my head since hearing it. You may not be famous right now, but I predict that you will be, once you become President of the Red Sox Nation!! Go Rob!!!
Report any abuse or spam
Rob, I like the Red Sox Angels program, as well as the opportunity for season ticket holders to donate a pair of tickets and receive a tax deduction.
So far, you're the only candidate that has gotten NEAR the ticket issue, which is the hottest one that I found among the people during my campaign.
And it was a pleasure to meet you (again) at the Baseball Tavern the other night. Good luck to you...
Greg
Report any abuse or spam
Rob is the man to lead our Nation! He's one of us; he speaks in a way that ordinary folks can understand; and his platform is unparalled in its vision!
Report any abuse or spam
BRAVO, ROB!! I support you fully on all counts of your platform. I love your ideas about the Red Sox Angels and Tix for Kids. It seems like a no brainer for all involved. I will be sure to tell all my friends in Red Sox Nation about Remarkable Regular Rob. You would make the perfect representative and leader for all of us remarkable regular fans. GOOD LUCK!! VOTE FOR ROB!!!!
Report any abuse or spam
Incredible ideas, Rob! I loved your ideas when we met at the Game On! event last month. You've got the mind and heart for the job - that's for sure!
I wish you nothing but the best going forward in the election. I'd love to help get these ideas and others off the ground with you. You know how to find me when that time comes, my friend. :)
Report any abuse or spam
Rob,
You obviously haven't come up with these goals overnight. The ticket programs you propose should be just what the Sox desire in this program. Your devotion to the Sox and your ability to express your ideas and sell them to the powers that be cannot be questioned.
You are the man to lead the Red Sox Nation!
Nice backyard field, by the way!
Report any abuse or spam
Rob is the best!!! Go Rob!
Report any abuse or spam
On September 2, 2007 I included Rob and his Red Sox Angels idea as part of my sermon for Sunday morning worship. This "regular fan" has an extra-ordinary sense of heart...and it takes a lot of heart to be a true Red Sox fan. Everyone could relate to Rob that Sunday morning, but more importantly to his message. You've got my vote Rob! Rev. John White
Report any abuse or spam
I live in Cincinnati, yet I was so moved by Rob's comments that I had to write. Rob is clearly a baseball fan who gets it . . . here is an endorsement from the Queen City of the West! Good luck, Rob, the Red Sox Nation needs you!
Report any abuse or spam
Rob,
I think you'll make a terrific president of Red Sox Nation. I like your "platform" - all of your ideas are "right on!" And your song is terrific. Best of luck. You have my vote for sure.
Rev. Ken Landall
Report any abuse or spam
The Sox are lucky to have a candidate with the imagination, charisma and intelligence of Rob Crawford. They and their fans should continue their streak by making their own luck and elevating Rob to the Presidency of Red Sox Nation!
Report any abuse or spam
Rob,
You clearly have a huge heart and I think it's going to bring good things to the Nation. We're so lucky to have you as a final candidate! The NC chapter of RSN has your back all the way. We'd be so very lucky to have you as our leader.
Best of luck,
Michelle
Report any abuse or spam
My best friend (Nicole) was one of the original candidates and she has had nothing but kind words about you since she met you. She pulled me aside today and told me that you were a great guy and that I really needed to read your platform so I would vote for you. She couldn't have been more right about you. You have some wonderful ideas and I hope, regardless of the outcome, the Red Sox move forward with some of these ideas. I've never met you before and I already think you're an amazing human being and the most deserving candidate out there.
Report any abuse or spam
Rob,you may not be famous but you've done great things for kids and have great ideas to lead the Red Sox Nation. Good Luck!
Report any abuse or spam
Rob -- Great blog entry. Your paragraph really struck me as most important, although the charitable programs are awesome too. As nice as it is that someone like Remy is not going to take the perks of the job, I kind of feel like he misses the point.
The whole point to me is to have someone who would be so gratified to have these perks that it would change their lives (ok, family events aside). They wouldn't look at it as another trophy on the mantle piece; they would see it as something they cherish.
You seem to have lots of "out of market" fans too - I'm sure they are clamoring how you are going to get them involved as well!
Go Regular Rob!
Report any abuse or spam
Rob - You have just the platform Red Sox Nation needs. I want you for my President! Go Sox, go Rob.
Report any abuse or spam
Dear Rob,
This Yankees fan since 4th grade is going around furtively singing "I'm a Member of the Red Sox Nation" because it is such a great song by such a great regular guy!
You will be an awesome RSN President!
(But i hope we win the division.....)
Report any abuse or spam
Regular Rob -- I am greatly impressed by the passion and sincerity evidenced by your statement. I think that any fan who's raising several small children, working, volunteering and STILL wants to find the time to make being President of Red Sox Nation deserves that honor. Good luck. From one regular fan to another, you have my vote. sf-j
Report any abuse or spam
I've noticed a common theme in all of your blogs - passion. It is so refreshing to see a "regular fan" with such realistic and charitable ideas. I think you would make a fantastic president.
Good luck, Rob!
- E
Report any abuse or spam
Dear Rob: When Jerry Remy first started talking about this Presidency of Red Sox Nation thing, I thought it was another fun distraction -- like playing air guitar and talking about Wally's escapades. I didn't really take it seriously until I read your speech, "This Isn't L.A., It's Boston." I suddenly realized that an entire new chapter of Red Sox history could be written with you as President of the Nation -- a chapter full of bright possibilities and lives touched forever. Thank you, Rob, for turning the page on something full of great potential for all of us. You've got my vote.
Report any abuse or spam
Rob,
This year the Red Sox surpassed the Yankees in average attendance at road games. As more and more people jump on the bandwagon of Red Sox Nation, we don't want success to spoil the wonderful thing we New Englanders have here. We certainly don't want our Sox to become--like the Yankees--the team everybody loves to hate!
It is your kind of values and your kind of vision that can keep that from happening.
Thank You!
Report any abuse or spam
Hey: this guy looks like the real thing! The other candidates register as superb, of course. I'd find myself proud to be citizen of a "nation" any of them might lead. But I think there's a dream here with "Regular Rob" and a platform coinciding with some of the goals and objectives I've seen in the recent years of the Sox ownership: true community outreach, community service, communty responsibility, a sense that the Sox embrace and participate in the common life of a region and can contribute to it, not simply as winners, but as participants and contributors in and to its health and welfare. If I had another shot at voting, I would surely review the platforms of all the candidates - each brings particular gifts and foci and makes a first class claim on the office - but I think I would cast my vote for "Regular Rob" because he captures the larger responsibilties of what a key institution like the Red Sox can bring to bear on certain pockets of an urban and regional populace no less eager to share in the joy and enthusiasm of Red Sox ambience than the rest of us.
Here's to you, "Irregular Rob!"
Report any abuse or spam
Another vote for Rob! I remember well when we were "in exile" in Milwaukee, when it was still an AL city. The great treat was to go see the Sox with other New Englanders. It would bring back memories of growing up in left field, watching Williams, and of college days at BU when there were always friends in center field. Rob, you can bring this sense of passion to the ordinary people - who are going crazy, as usual, in these latter days of September.
Report any abuse or spam
Hey Rob. The Red Sox would be lucky to have you as the chief ambassador to their fan base. Someone with your creativity, energy and enthusiasm would be the perfect choice. Your desire to get tickets into the hands of the most grateful,and probably least able, says it all. Thinking about all those who might receive tickets, who might in fact attend a game that they'll remember forever as a life changing experience, sends chills down my spine! If you become President of RSN you will set the bar high for all Presidents to come. Good Luck Rob! You deserve to win for a million reasons, not to mention you have the best song and video ever!
Report any abuse or spam
Rob- You give me hope! The magic of Fenway should be shared. I would love to volunteer to help you give away those tickets.
Report any abuse or spam
Rob,
I love your altruism and commitment to kids and folks who have fallen on hard times. My dad had a serious accident at age 42 and was confined to a wheelchair. One of the thrills my brother and I were able to give him before he died was to take him to a Sox game. Unfortunately, he died before 2004 and didn't see them win it all, but he was cheering from a celestial banner.
All the best,
Norm Bendroth
Report any abuse or spam
Dear Rob: I am a member of Red Sox Nation from Puerto Rico and I was one of the 25 finalist of presidency. This message is only for tell you that I have decided give my vote for you. After read the plattform and blogs, I think you are the best candidate. I am going to support you from my blogs: http://mediasrojas.mlblogs.com
Good luck and sorry for my English.
Antonio Rodriguez.
Report any abuse or spam
Folks - I have known Rob since College and I can attest that he was born for this role. Rob has more natural love for the Red Sox and the sport of Baseball then anyone I have ever met. His platform and ideas are very much in the spirit of the person he is. I think he would make an excellent choice as the first president...Rob you have my vote. My kids are all singing Red Sox Nation down here in Texas. Thanks for helping me pass on the tradition. Best of luck to you.
Report any abuse or spam
If you read this man's entire blog, there's no denying it: he captures the spirit of baseball, of fandom, of Red Sox Nation. Despite all the rhetoric among adults and the descriptions of how life-changing and powerful rooting for the Sox can be, despite the fact that many of us describe our feelings for the team in near-religious terms, Rob understands that baseball is a GAME.
And so Rob reponds to his love affair with baseball and the Red Sox with childlike whimsy and with gratitude. His platform revolves around bringing this playful, competitive, invigorating, ingenious GAME to children and youth, to people who haven't the means to enjoy live baseball, people who have a hard time getting to the home turf of their favorite team--or perhaps, any team at all.
Red Sox Nation is about reliving and creating memories, enlivening people, coming together, sharing pain, counting blessings, giving from our surfeit of enthusiasm and love for this game and this team. Rob makes me proud to be a member!
Report any abuse or spam
I am inspired by what I read by Rob. His broad vision coupled with his realism and humility would make me even more proud to be a member of Red Sox Nation were he to be selected as the first president.
Report any abuse or spam
Rob Crawford is the epitome of baseball and kids on a Saturday afternoon. His sincerity, ability to connect to all who are around him, his generosity, his humble approach, his incredible devotion to his own family
(as well as the Red Sox family!)and his obvious love of Boston and their team. Rob would bring the meaning of baseball and family back together. If at all possible, Fenway would be a better place as he would bring his all-American values, spirit, respect and high energy to the park. The Red Sox and all of baseball need Rob Crawford. Go Rob!!!
Report any abuse or spam
Rob i really hope you get elected you have such an amazing dream and we no you will make an amazing, president of the red sox nation! GO ROB CRAWFORD
Report any abuse or spam
You Rock the sox go Mr.Crawford!!!!!!!!!! Alll of us are routing for you to be PRESIDENT OF RED SOX NATION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Report any abuse or spam
Hi Rob. I just this minute heard your awesome interview on Harvard's radio station. This was a perfect example of why the Red Sox need you....you were born to have this job! All of us "regular folk" would be proud to have you as our spokesperson. And when you played guitar and sang I'm A Member of Red Sox Nation, your voice was fantastic. I'm sure many listeners will find their way to the blog and video. (Thanks for publicly mentioning Henry!) Hopefully the Red Sox brass and everyone who votes, will heed the call and let the right person take the helm of RSN. Go Rob Go!!
Report any abuse or spam
Hi Rob, I just heard you on Hillbilly at Harvard. Your song was a hit with me. Red Sox nation needs Regular Rob.
You have my vote!!!!
Report any abuse or spam
I wrote a post in my blog about my support to Rob Crawford. http://mediasrojas.mlblogs.com
Report any abuse or spam
I LOVE your idea to help more children/people get access to tickets. As a 30-something social worker living in the "free parking for Sox games" area of Brookline/Brighton, even I cannot really afford tickets or cable t.v- either needed to watch the games.
Report any abuse or spam
Go ROB! If ever any president could deliver on visionary campaign proposals, it's Rob--because in his case, these aren't hollow promises, doled out in a craven bid for election. The Rob Crawford I've known for years backs his words with deeds--always efforts to help others, not himself. Good luck Rob, win or lose, you've redefined "regular" for the whole Nation. Nuff Ced McGreavey'd be proud, indeed! GO SOX! GO ROB!
Report any abuse or spam
Rob, to put it in simple terms "you get it"! Your ideas about sharing the wealth and leveraging the strength of Red Sox Nation to benefit kids are brilliant! I can't imagine a better leader for the Nation. All of us, indeed the Red Sox organization, would be lucky to have you as President. Thank you all you've done already to raise important issues. Thanks for running! Congrats on a great song and video! And a big thank you to your family for sharing you with all of us!
Report any abuse or spam
wow- what a lot of support for a really deserving candidate. We need more recognition of regular fans, who, in this case, also have terrific ideas for spreading the joy of watching a game. I love the giving tickets to kids idea especially. And your song is wonderful. Good luck!
Report any abuse or spam
Rob, Your ideas for spreading Red Sox magic to people who might otherwise never be able to attend a game are fantastic. Best of luck in your quest to become the first President of Red Sox Nation. If only our U.S. nation does so well in 2008!
Report any abuse or spam
I'm a long range Red Sox fan in central Pennsylvania, and
my connection with Rob comes
from my friendship with his
Dad Jim. But I love his goals
as I sweat out these last few
days of 2007, check out the Red Sox scores each day in The Centre Daily Times and
watch any games I can.
Report any abuse or spam
Rob, You would be a terrific president of Red Sox Nation. You couldn't help but be a true blue Red Sox fan--it is in your genes! I like your idea of Red Sox Angel tickets.
Report any abuse or spam
"Sweet Caroline," .... oops! I mean, "You Go, Regular Rob!" Raised at "The Hub of the Hub of the Hub!," we know that you have the Spirit of the Red Sox woven into the fiber of your life! And that is Very Good to Know! We want you to be our President of Red Sox Nation! We want the Red Sox to Win, and we want You to Win, Too! Are there placards we could carry? Can we form a chorus to sing your song? Could we get the kids out to vote for you, too? Red Sox Nation needs you, and we need Red Sox Nation!
Best Wishes to You in this Effort ...
Report any abuse or spam
Rob, Your ideas reflect a wonderful read on the magic of baseball for kids and families as grow-the-game parts of Red Sox Nation. I'm reminded of my own first ball game with my father, long before adult life brought me opportunities to work on ballparks as an architect at all levels including MLB. Somehow, as the professional opportunities have grown and as I've been able to see games with my own family, the thrills resonate most deeply as reminders of that early time. It will be great to see you find ways with the team to bring that to more kids and families. And, as a bonus, the world and Red Sox Nation can always use more good music! You have our support.
Report any abuse or spam
Rob, You have my vote: Red Sox, A Great Song, Caring for People Less Fortunate than Yourself -- a winning Red Sox combination. In celebration of last night's playoff clinching victory, my vote is going your way!
Report any abuse or spam
Rob,
I love the Angels idea! Good luck to you.
Report any abuse or spam
Rob,
You have my vote all the way! What an admirable platform! I especially appreciate how you have the best interests of others more needy than you at heart. Every blessing.
Report any abuse or spam
As one of Rob's former Sunday school teachers, I say VOTE FOR ROB! He is earnest, enthusiastic, and loves the game of baseball. Rob is so intelligent, yet is very down-to-earth. And, I can't get that darn song out of my head. Rob Crawford represents everything that is GOOD about Red Sox Nation! Good luck, Robby.
Pam Roberts
Report any abuse or spam
Rob, you get my vote. It's been a well-kept secret that many of us out here, not only, "love that dirty water" and worry about "Charlie" and his adventures on the MTA, but also, really have a red hot passion for our home team. Your song, your plans, your invitation to celebrate being a member of the Red Sox Nation is a Grand Slam ! Please be our president !! Roberta Barr
Report any abuse or spam
Hi Rob,
Another out-of-market Red Sox fan (from Northern Virginia)who plans to vote for you for president of RSN. Your "I'm A Member of Red Sox Nation" is such a fun song and captures the passion and excitement of being a Red Sox fan. The Red Sox Angels and Sox Tix for Kids programs sound terrific. They show a generosity of spirit that reflects the heart and soul of Red Sox Nation. Best of luck!
Report any abuse or spam
go daddy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Report any abuse or spam
#1 daddy for prez!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Report any abuse or spam
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Report any abuse or spam
Rob, What inspirational and reflective thoughts. This is Boston and I'm proud of it! Thanks for putting this campaign in perspective. I love your platform, especially the Tix for Kids. As a single mom raising two sports-minded kids with no financial support or positive male role models, this would have been a dream come true for all of us. Always dare to dream - they may come true. Good luck in your presidential bid - Boston is proud of you!
Report any abuse or spam
Hey Rob
You (and anyone else) -- check out the message on MY blog
http://section15.mlblogs.com
..... Greg
Report any abuse or spam
Having had experience working with you, I am not at all surprised at how far you have come in this election. Your speech is perfect - so sincere, and you have clearly had an incredibly positive effect on all those you have met. I loved reading every one of your posts, and I hope that there will be "Red Sox Angels" someday soon. Looking forward to the debate!
Report any abuse or spam
Yo Homie,
You're ideas are original, inspiring and achievable, and your words reflect your genuine passion for the BoSox and their fans. Whether you become Pres. of RSN or not, you're still a remarkable dude. I feel privileged to call you my colleague and my friend.
- Carl S.
Report any abuse or spam
Dear Rob,
This Yankees fan will vote for you because your passion inspires all baseball fans, and your platform should be a model for all teams.
Giving the joy of baseball to kids and families who could only dream of attending a game - what's not to love?
Report any abuse or spam
The idea of celebrities running for president of Red Sox Nation left me cold. I couldn't believe that they would actually allow their hats to be placed in the ring. I always thought of the notion of Red Sox Nation as something for the fans.
I was tempted to vote for Big Pupi, but I didn't want to make a mockery of the process, either.
I have to say: Doris Kearns Goodwin throwing her support behind you was very convincing. And the fact that you went on "Hillbilly at Harvard" was the icing on the cake. I've been listening to that show on Saturday mornings since before I saw Dave Morehead throw his no-hitter back in 1965!
Several years ago, while working on the book FENWAY LIVES, I suggested to Ron Burton, Jr., who was Community Relations Manager at the time, that season ticket holders like myself donate tickets to less fortunate kids who would otherwise never be able to see a game. He never responded. Nor did anyone else from the Red Sox. We have new ownership now, and I'm sure they'd be very receptive to the idea. I still think it is an excellent idea, and I'm glad you've suggested it. Perhaps you'll be able to help bring it to fruition.
Bill Nowlin
Report any abuse or spam
Being a Red Sox fan stranded out here in Los Angeles, I thought I might take offense at Rob's comparison between Boston and LA. But Regular Rob is right: the power and presence of celebrity makes our institutions - from sports, to politics, to entertainment - strangely remote out here. The real ballpark experience is about devoted fans - real people, kids, families and the institution they hold dear. Save the celebrities for the playing field, and Vive le Regular Rob! He is the right man for this job!
Report any abuse or spam
Hey Rob -
You will receive my vote! Just a few questions/comments -
*Why stop with Red Sox Angels in New England? There are hotbeds of Red Sox Nation in PA, too. (Well, Central PA at least.) And we have to deal with Yankee fans as well as NATIONAL LEAGUE Pirates and Phillies fans on a daily basis. I was directly responsible for the Sox winning the AL East by proudly affixing my just-received RSN bumper sticker to my car the very afternoon of the incredible victory over the Twins. It was Karma from Pennsylvania that enabled the Sox to win in Boston while the Orioles prevailed over the Evil Empire in Baltimore.
*Is there an age limit to your definition of "kid"? As an elementary school teacher, I believe that I qualify as a kid at heart. While I wouldn't want to deprive an actual CHILD of the opportunity to experience a game, I personally believe each child should be accompanied by a child-like mentor to enhance that experience, to make sure he/she gets to eat the appropriate baseball food, learn the history of Fenway Park, and hear stories about the players while watching the game.
*Finally, since you are a school administrator, I certainly hope you take full advantage of your current position of authority by enforcing some sort of appropriate (Red Sox Nation) dress code. At least require the staff to wear Sox apparel - adults must serve as good role models and make sure children are not exposed to pinstripes.
Best of luck!
Report any abuse or spam
GOOOOOOOO ROBBBIE - May Becket Fire a no hitter on Wednesday and you take claim the the presidency - what a day that would be......good luck to you - your passion and ideas are contagious...I think you should be on Theo's staff as an elected representative.
Report any abuse or spam