Opening Day 2013--SnS Style

[JaneDoe]

Ok, there was discussion in another thread about our annual tradition of SnS Opening Day--Spanish Flowers followed by the Flying Saucer and the Astros game.

I know a list was started there, but if you are interested, please reply here with the number of tickets you want.  There is a minimum number of 20 for a group.    

Remember--The Astros will begin the 2013 season at 7 p.m. CT on March 31 against the Rangers at Minute Maid Park.  This is Easter Sunday night.

ETA-2
Raups-2
Zipp-1
Ron Brand-1
Mr. Happy-1
BudGirl-1
NeilT-2
GBB-1
Hudsonhawk-1
DVauthrin-2

[EasTexAstro]

Two, please.

[JimR]

Raups--2

[Andyzipp]

1 for me.

[Ron Brand]

One for me.

[Ron Brand]

And one pregaming reservation at the Tall Texan.

[Mr. Happy]

One for me, thanks. Someone has to drive you drunks around.

[JimR]

One for me, thanks. Someone has to drive you drunks around.

are you bringing a Greyhound bus?

[Ty in Tampa]

are you bringing a Greyhound bus?

With a bar?

[BudGirl]

You know, the Astros could win this game.  The Rangers are playing the Padres the 29th and 30th in the Alamodome.  Yes, there is going to be baseball in the Alamodome.  I was given a ticket to one of the games as a Christmas gift and they seemed upset when I said I was going to root for the Padres.

Can you tentatively add me for 1?

[NeilT]

2 for me.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Count me in for at least one.

[HudsonHawk]

One for me, please.

[DVauthrin]

2 for me. 

[JaneDoe]

Opening Day update: The date change has resulted in a rash of ticket sales (so they say).

Field Box and Dugout are sold out.

If we want 3B side (out of the sun), there are Club and Terrace available. 

We can get in the All You Can Eat Sections (252 and 253) right now, but they are going fast.

I don't have 20 responses yet.  New policy: I have to pay the entire balance up front, I can't put down a deposit on Opening Day tickets.

Any preference to where we sit?

[BudGirl]

i'll confirm for 1 and my perference is club or terrace.

[Ron Brand]

Club's good.

[NeilT]

Opening Day update: The date change has resulted in a rash of ticket sales (so they say).

Field Box and Dugout are sold out.

If we want 3B side (out of the sun), there are Club and Terrace available. 

We can get in the All You Can Eat Sections (252 and 253) right now, but they are going fast.

I don't have 20 responses yet.  New policy: I have to pay the entire balance up front, I can't put down a deposit on Opening Day tickets.

Any preference to where we sit?

Nope.

[JaneDoe]

Club tickets are $35-58.

Terrace are $23.

AYCE are $30.

[Ron Brand]

Club's still good.

[JaneDoe]

Oh, yeah, these prices are only good through Jan 31.  They change prices each month for group tickets, based on demand. 

[Andyzipp]

Club's good, but I'll sit anywhere.

[Ron Brand]

Club's good, but I'll sit anywhere.

This.

If they're really going fast, you might want to set a deadline before you commit - like, tonight, or tomorrow noon or whatever you feel comfortable with. Assuming we get to 20 of course.

[Mr. Happy]

JD: I'll take any ticket you want to reserve. If you need money now, just let me know! Thanks for doing this.

[JimR]

JD: I'll take any ticket you want to reserve. If you need money now, just let me know! Thanks for doing this.

and the rookie hazing tradition is that you buy all the TZ beer at the Saucer.

[Mr. Happy]

and the rookie hazing tradition is that you buy all the TZ beer at the Saucer.

Coach, I would consider it an honor if you allowed me to buy you a beer.

[JimR]

Coach, I would consider it an honor if you allowed me to buy you a beer.

i will give you a double or a triple honor.

[NeilT]

i will give you a double or a triple honor.

It's obviously your generous nature that makes you who you are.

[HudsonHawk]

Club is good, but I'll sit anywhere, as long as Budgirl let's me keep my pants on.

[JimR]

It's obviously your generous nature that makes you who you are.

i know. it is amazing, ain't it?

[DVauthrin]

I'd prefer to sit in the club section, but either works for me.

[EasTexAstro]

Opening Day update: The date change has resulted in a rash of ticket sales (so they say).

Field Box and Dugout are sold out.

If we want 3B side (out of the sun), there are Club and Terrace available. 

We can get in the All You Can Eat Sections (252 and 253) right now, but they are going fast.

I don't have 20 responses yet.  New policy: I have to pay the entire balance up front, I can't put down a deposit on Opening Day tickets.

Any preference to where we sit?

No preference. Mrs. ETA said add 2 more tickets for a total of 4 if that would help get to the 20 you need. You know she is good for it.

[PCOL2000]

I will be in the middle of a move from Spain to Japan and am gonna change my itinerary to go to a game with ya'll and I'd like to buy everyone a beer as well.  So - 1 for me.   I'll sit wherever.

[HudsonHawk]

No preference. Mrs. ETA said add 2 more tickets for a total of 4 if that would help get to the 20 you need. You know she is good for it.

Mrs. ETA is a saint.  A saint, I tells ya!

[NeilT]

I will be in the middle of a move from Spain to Japan and am gonna change my itinerary to go to a game with ya'll and I'd like to buy everyone a beer as well.  So - 1 for me.   I'll sit wherever.

That's great.  It'll give Jim a whole 'nuther opportunity to be generous.

[EasTexAstro]

Mrs. ETA is a saint.  A saint, I tells ya!

Yes. Yes, she is.

[JimR]

That's great.  It'll give Jim a whole 'nuther opportunity to be generous.

and, because i am the kind of guy i am, i welcome those opportunities.

[JaneDoe]

Updated count:

ETA-4
Raups-2
Zipp-1
Ron Brand-1
Mr. Happy-1
BudGirl-1
NeilT-2
GBB-1
Hudsonhawk-1
DVauthrin-2
PCOL2000-1

That is 17.....

[EasTexAstro]

Updated count:

ETA-4
Raups-2
Zipp-1
Ron Brand-1
Mr. Happy-1
BudGirl-1
NeilT-2
GBB-1
Hudsonhawk-1
DVauthrin-2
PCOL2000-1

That is 17.....

You're not buying a ticket or two?

and...Where is chuck? He should be dying for a chance to see this team...

[JimR]

where is Mr. Calvin?

[Limey]

My ongoing boycott of all things MLB prevents me from attending the game.  However, I do hope that I will be welcome at the pre and/or post-game festivities.  My failure to engage for these elements of last year's event was a notable fuck up on my part - for which I apologise.

[Ron Brand]

That is 17.....

I didn't get a harrumph outta that guy!

[Ron Brand]

However, I do hope that I will be welcome at the pre and/or post-game festivities. 

Cost for admission / apology fee = 3x game ticket price

[DVauthrin]

Cost for admission / apology fee = 3x game ticket price

We could just say all drinks are on him. 

[BudGirl]

I can ask those I usually attend opening day, but i tend not to want to stray from SnS peoples.

[Ron Brand]

We could just say all drinks are on him. 

Jane needs 20 to place the order.

[DVauthrin]

Jane needs 20 to place the order.

I'm well aware of that.  And right now it appears she is 3 short.  Perhaps we should shame Limey into coming to the first Astros American League game. 

[gleach]

I'll take two.

[Ron Brand]

Limey's price just dropped to 1x.

[Andyzipp]

I'll buy a second to get us to 20. 

I may or may not proceed to then sell said ticket to the first homeless* person I see on March 31st.




*Must appear to be interesting.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

I'll take a second.  I'll try to convince Mrs. GBB to come, or else do my best to make a friend.  Any friend.

[JaneDoe]

Gleach-2
Me-at least 1

Andy, if you don't want to use the other ticket, I won't get it.  Thanks for volunteering to purchase one, though.

[Limey]

We could just say all drinks are on him. 

You can say in one hand and wish in the other and see which one...  eh?  Oh.

[DVauthrin]

I'll take a second.  I'll try to convince Mrs. GBB to come, or else do my best to make a friend.  Any friend.

Don't forget, it could be a great opportunity to sell someone on the value of shopping at your store. 

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Okay, count me for one.

[JimR]

I'll take a second.  I'll try to convince Mrs. GBB to come, or else do my best to make a friend.  Any friend.

please notice that i never make these kinds of wild promises.

[Ebby Calvin]

where is Mr. Calvin?

Sorry, late to the thread. I'll take one. If I can't make it I'll give it to Limey.  Hopefully his MLB boycott is only financial related.

[DVauthrin]

As it turns out, I only need one ticket now, so change my amount to 1 please.

[JimR]

I may need 1 more.

[JimR]

I may need 1 more.

i only need 2. is this still on?

[Navin R Johnson]

FYI.  Astros have more than doubled the price of most tickets for opening day.

http://mlb.mlb.com/ticketing/pricing.jsp?c_id=hou&layout=gameflow

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

WOW! They continue to find ways to stick it to the fans.

I've decided to withdrawal my request for a ticket if they have not been purchased yet. I will not allow my self to be highjacked by an ownership group that would take advantage of the true fans natural enthusiasm for opening day by hiking-up the ticket prices. I understand it's a business and the demand is greater for tickets for the first game of the season than for the second game of the season, therefore I understand why they are charging more. However, for me it's the wrong move because, they are still a AAAA team at best but now charging more than double the regular price for opening day, they are coming off the two worst seasons in the history of the club, didn't significantly improved the club at the ML level during the off-season, and they now are demonstrating early on their intention to gouge the fans at every opportunity. Fuckity fuck fuck.

[Bench]

FYI.  Astros have more than doubled the price of most tickets for opening day.

http://mlb.mlb.com/ticketing/pricing.jsp?c_id=hou&layout=gameflow

Wow.  I'll happily pay $5 for a ticket for Game 2, sit wherever I want and not have to worry about waiting in line for a beer. 

[Ebby Calvin]

Looks like I'll be out of town for OD, so if the tickets haven't been purchased yet please remove me from the list.  I'm happy to cover the cost if they've already been bought though.

[BudGirl]

After all the moves they made, I do believe this is the worst.  I'd rather invite you all over to watch the game.

[EasTexAstro]

Club tickets are $35-58.

Terrace are $23.

AYCE are $30.

Are these still the prices we pay?

[EasTexAstro]

After all the moves they made, I do believe this is the worst.  I'd rather invite you all over to watch the game.

Will it even be broadcasted?

[Ron Brand]

Are these still the prices we pay?

What Jane posted was this:

Club tickets are $35-58.

Terrace are $23.

AYCE are $30.

So we'll see.

[BudGirl]

Will it even be broadcasted?

I thought it was nationally televised.  I have comcast so I should be able to see the games regardless.

[jbm]

WOW! They continue to find ways to stick it to the fans.

I've decided to withdrawal my request for a ticket if they have not been purchased yet. I will not allow my self to be highjacked by an ownership group that would take advantage of the true fans natural enthusiasm for opening day by hiking-up the ticket prices. I understand it's a business and the demand is greater for tickets for the first game of the season than for the second game of the season, therefore I understand why they are charging more. However, for me it's the wrong move because, they are still a AAAA team at best but now charging more than double the regular price for opening day, they are coming off the two worst seasons in the history of the club, didn't significantly improved the club at the ML level during the off-season, and they now are demonstrating early on their intention to gouge the fans at every opportunity. Fuckity fuck fuck.

Probably due to demand from Ranger fans.  There will be plenty of Claw and Antler shirts for sale.  Solid red or solid blue.  Your choice.  

[Ron Brand]

I thought it was nationally televised.  I have comcast so I should be able to see the games regardless.

I think that was the point of moving the game to Sunday night, so it could be broadcast nationally. I assume that means ESPN.

[Bench]

I think that was the point of moving the game to Sunday night, so it could be broadcast nationally. I assume that means ESPN.

Yes.  It's ESPN's special season opener. 

[JimR]

the Raups are out if the tickets have not been purchased at the lower price.

[NeilT]

Jane seems not to be around.  I'm worried about her.

[Ron Brand]

Just got off the phone with the Astros. The tickets were not purchased.

They are trying to accomodate us but their system is down right now. We're looking at getting Power Club seats, which would be Club level, Sections 233-236 (right field corner, basically - chart is here) and these seats would be $35 each. That includes a $15 credit we can use during the game for food or merchandise and that credit expires after the game.

[JimR]

Just got off the phone with the Astros. The tickets were not purchased.

They are trying to accomodate us but their system is down right now. We're looking at getting Power Club seats, which would be Club level, Sections 233-236 (right field corner, basically - chart is here) and these seats would be $35 each. That includes a $15 credit we can use during the game for food or merchandise and that credit expires after the game.

no wonder she is staying away from the board.

[Ron Brand]

At this point my plan would be to purchase 20 tickets, which is what my count shows.

ETA-4
Raups-2
Zipp-1
Ron Brand-1
Mr. Happy-1
BudGirl-1
NeilT-2
GBB-2
Hudsonhawk-1
DVauthrin-1
PCOL2000-1
Gleach-2
Sphinx-1

[Ron Brand]

no wonder she is staying away from the board.

She's not just staying away from the board.

[EasTexAstro]

no wonder she is staying away from the board.

I hope that is the worst thing happening.

[chuck]

You'd have to be a special kind of slime to make fans long for the days of Cooter and Butchie.

[JimR]

She's not just staying away from the board.

well, perhaps you should share what you can.

[Ron Brand]

well, perhaps you should share what you can.

I've shared as much as I am comfortable sharing.

[JimR]

I've shared as much as I am comfortable sharing.

lots of people have problems, and some of them have big ones.

[Ron Brand]

Power Club is sold out. I have a 4pm deadline to order 20 Club II seats at $68. Those seats are club level, third base side.

If anyone drops out, we don't have an SnS Opening Day. I will check back just before 4 to see if we're going or not.

[JimR]

Power Club is sold out. I have a 4pm deadline to order 20 Club II seats at $68. Those seats are club level, third base side.

If anyone drops out, we don't have an SnS Opening Day. I will check back just before 4 to see if we're going or not.

if one drops out, it is off?

[Ron Brand]

Yeah.

We can get View Deck I for $30.

[EasTexAstro]

I'll go for my 4 tickets at $30, but I am out if we try to go with $68.

[JimR]

Yeah.

We can get View Deck I for $30.

the Raups are in at either price.

[Ron Brand]

View Deck I is, I think, Sections 413-425; top section of the ballpark, behind the field.

[NeilT]

I'm still in for two. 

[JimR]

View Deck I is, I think, Sections 413-425; top section of the ballpark, behind the field.

a Sherpa takes you to your seat.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Count me back in for one at either of the regular price prices.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

I am out if we try to go with $68.

Same here.

[Mr. Happy]

I'm still in. Thanks for organizing, RB. PM me where to send you my money.

[Ron Brand]

I think I've seen enough to make a call. I'm going to buy 20 View Deck 1 seats, supposedly at $30. I'll let you know how it comes out.

[Ron Brand]

It is done. I have purchased 20 View Deck II seats at $28 each. They are broken into rows 10 and 11 of Section 430, which should be below the cloud line but definitely above the tree line midway between 1B and the RF corner.

[chuck]

It is done. I have purchased 20 View Deck II seats at $28 each. They are broken into rows 10 and 11 of Section 430, which should be below the cloud line but definitely above the tree line midway between 1B and the RF corner.

The good news is that thing out in left field won't bother you guys hardly at all, you can just look right over it.

[Ron Brand]

The good news is that thing out in left field won't bother you guys hardly at all, you can just look right over it.

I'm practicing looking down right now.

[JimR]

It is done. I have purchased 20 View Deck II seats at $28 each. They are broken into rows 10 and 11 of Section 430, which should be below the cloud line but definitely above the tree line midway between 1B and the RF corner.

Mark and i sat in the absolute top row corner during the All Star game. we heard they played a game, but we could not swear to it.

[Ron Brand]

I'm going to enjoy being at the ballpark with some friends, having a beer and some good Mexican food and cameraderie. If some kids want to play on the lawn a half-dozen stories down, sure, I'll try to make out what's going on from time to time.

[JimR]

I'm going to enjoy being at the ballpark with some friends, having a beer and some good Mexican food and cameraderie. If some kids want to play on the lawn a half-dozen stories down, sure, I'll try to make out what's going on from time to time.

exactly

[Andyzipp]

It's not like we can't move down en masse once the game starts.

[EasTexAstro]

Thank you, Ron, for taking care of all this. Let me know where to send the check.

I am really looking forward to seeing everyone again.

(Mostly, I am looking forward to seeing Mrs. ETA since it is only her second day off of the year.)

[Jacksonian]

It's not like we can't move down en masse once the game starts.

Only if the Rangers are losing.

[DVauthrin]

I'm going to enjoy being at the ballpark with some friends, having a beer and some good Mexican food and cameraderie. If some kids want to play on the lawn a half-dozen stories down, sure, I'll try to make out what's going on from time to time.

Thank you for stepping up to keep this tradition alive.  I'm still in for one.  

[OregonStrosFan]

I will be at the home opener of Opening Day to watch the Astros play.  I should note, however, that it will be the Mariners home opener 8 days after the beginning of the Astros season...

[OregonStrosFan]

Mark and i sat in the absolute top row corner during the All Star game. we heard they played a game, but we could not swear to it.

Was in the second to last row at Reliant for Superbowl 38, and had a similar experience.  Took me a while, but I eventually got over my altitude sickness in time to make the plane back to PDX...

[Ron Brand]

Do you guys want to just meet up at Tall Texan/Spanish Flowers/MMPUS and throw $$$ at me/pick up your tickets then?

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Do you guys want to just meet up at Tall Texan/Spanish Flowers/MMPUS and throw $$$ at me/pick up your tickets then?

Yes

[HudsonHawk]

Do you guys want to just meet up at Tall Texan/Spanish Flowers/MMPUS and throw $$$ at me/pick up your tickets then?

That'll work. Since Opening Day is a holiday, the TT will definitely be in play.

[DVauthrin]

Do you guys want to just meet up at Tall Texan/Spanish Flowers/MMPUS and throw $$$ at me/pick up your tickets then?

Sounds good to me.

[Bench]

Do you guys want to just meet up at Tall Texan/Spanish Flowers/MMPUS and throw $$$ at me/pick up your tickets then?

Also, that way you'll have plenty of cash on hand to buy rounds at the ballgame.

[Ron Brand]

That'll work. Since Opening Day is a holiday, the TT will definitely be in play.

Easter beer at the Tall Texan is entirely and completely within my life's idiom. Few things match up so well.

[Ron Brand]

Also, that way you'll have plenty of cash on hand to buy rounds at after the ballgame.

FIFY

[Ty in Tampa]

FIFY

Yeah, $500 won't go too far at MMP.

[austro]

Do you guys want to just meet up at Tall Texan/Spanish Flowers/MMPUS and throw $$$ at me/pick up your tickets then?

Will you be dancing?

[Ron Brand]

Will you be dancing?

Depends on how much money you're giving me, sailor.

[Ron Brand]

Oh, and sometime during the game they're going to put SpikesNStars.com on the big scoreboard. I have no idea when or for how long, but it'll be there for thousands of disinterested Ranger fans to ignore.

[Ty in Tampa]

Oh, and sometime during the game they're going to put SpikesNStars.com on the big scoreboard. I have no idea when or for how long, but it'll be there for thousands of disinterested Ranger fans to ignore.

If only Milo were there to mention us too.

[PCOL2000]

Everyone, 

I have to bow out of opening day.  It hurts to say it and I will gladly still pay for the ticket to ensure the event still happens.  I have to be in Albuquerque for a class on the 1st of April and I'm required to be there the day prior.  I would still love to get together with anybody as I feel like I know you crazy bastards like I know my own family, but my family is probably full of crazier bastards.  I'm still hoping for a golf game.

[NeilT]

Everyone, 

I have to bow out of opening day.  It hurts to say it and I will gladly still pay for the ticket to ensure the event still happens.  I have to be in Albuquerque for a class on the 1st of April and I'm required to be there the day prior.  I would still love to get together with anybody as I feel like I know you crazy bastards like I know my own family, but my family is probably full of crazier bastards.  I'm still hoping for a golf game.

That's really too bad.  Like it or not I'll probably end up with tickets to either the Friday night or Saturday afternoon exhibition.  If you're around, and anyone wants to go, I'll probably have 2 or 3 extra seats.  I should point out it's against some NL club, so it's not real baseball.

[Ron Brand]

If anyone would like to step up and take PCOL2000's ticket, let me know.

[EasTexAstro]

If anyone would like to step up and take PCOL2000's ticket, let me know.

I'll take it. I seem to have a full house wanting to go.

[Ron Brand]

I'll take it. I seem to have a full house wanting to go.

I guess we should rename the thread to Opening Day 2013--ETA Style.

[EasTexAstro]

I guess we should rename the thread to Opening Day 2013--ETA Style.

I just want all of the rest of this group to teach the kids a love of the game.

[Ron Brand]

I just want all of the rest of this group to teach the kids a love of the game.

You are doing an admirable job, sir. I'm feeling the pressure to not embarrass myself...

[Ron Brand]

I got the tickets in the mail today. 20 of 'em, View Deck II, Section 430, eleven on Row 10 and nine on Row 11. The best part is that on the back of the ticket is a coupon for 20% off THE ENTIRE GUEST CHECK at Houston area Denny's. Well, except for the 2468 Value Menu, whatever that is.

The bad news is that Mr. Happy can't make it in because the air fare is onerous, so unless something breaks his way we'll have an extra ticket if someone wants it. Or another seat buffer between my funky butt and the rest of you guys.

[austro]

I got the tickets in the mail today. 20 of 'em, View Deck II, Section 430, eleven on Row 10 and nine on Row 11. The best part is that on the back of the ticket is a coupon for 20% off THE ENTIRE GUEST CHECK at Houston area Denny's. Well, except for the 2468 Value Menu, whatever that is.

The bad news is that Mr. Happy can't make it in because the air fare is onerous, so unless something breaks his way we'll have an extra ticket if someone wants it. Or another seat buffer between my funky butt and the rest of you guys.

Ain't no buffer wide enough, ain't no barrier high enough...

[DVauthrin]

Ain't no buffer wide enough, ain't no barrier high enough...

Ain't no barrier low enough....

[Ron Brand]

Mama says I look pretty fruity but in jeans I feel rockin'.

[austro]

Mama says I look pretty fruity but in jeans I feel rockin'.

Nice. I'd never heard that before.

[chuck]

Mama says I look pretty fruity but in jeans I feel rockin'.

Say, did you make his SXSW set? I think he played a six-song set at 11:30 Thursday morning at a lawnmower repair shop up on Burnet.

[Ron Brand]

Say, did you make his SXSW set? I think he played a six-song set at 11:30 Thursday morning at a lawnmower repair shop up on Burnet.

I've been True Believin' all week.

[chuck]

I've been True Believin' all week.

I know. I'm starting to get the impression that you like that band.

You made it in last night?

[Ron Brand]

I know. I'm starting to get the impression that you like that band.

You made it in last night?

No. I didn't push it as hard as I could have, especially since it was only a half hour. Tonight's the one I hate to miss, but I've got some goofy Fantasy Baseball thing going on. Willie Nile? Penetration? Cheetah Chrome? Rosie Flores? Peter Buck? AND a full set from the Troobs? I swear, the choices I make.

I have been pretty successful climbing back in this week though, so I'm happy with that. Made some new friends.

[chuck]

That's the thing about those sets, you know, unless it's a case like the Believers it's hardly worth it to try to see anyone because you get thirty minutes which invariably gets chiseled to twenty because some Bulgarian hip-hop star started late or who knows what.

A band that Ebby and I carry on about, Frightened Rabbit, played at noon Friday in the Waterloo parking lot. I LOVE that band but there is no fucking way I'm going to fight my way through all that mess to see someone play for half an hour.

[Ron Brand]

That's my biggest gripe with SXSW. Initially last night was to be a full showcase for the Believers and a full set. I would've been on the list for that one, but when they added Fogerty I knew it wasn't something I'd be all that broken up about missing. I've seen two ten song sets up very close plus been in the studio with them. I've made some new friends. It's been a fantastic week and I'm very happy with how it's gone.

[EasTexAstro]

I got the tickets in the mail today. 20 of 'em, View Deck II, Section 430, eleven on Row 10 and nine on Row 11. The best part is that on the back of the ticket is a coupon for 20% off THE ENTIRE GUEST CHECK at Houston area Denny's. Well, except for the 2468 Value Menu, whatever that is.

The bad news is that Mr. Happy can't make it in because the air fare is onerous, so unless something breaks his way we'll have an extra ticket if someone wants it. Or another seat buffer between my funky butt and the rest of you guys.

I'm still collecting tickets if they are available.

[Ron Brand]

As far as I know, it is available.

[NeilT]

I've been asked to sit elsewhere in the stadium, and need to.  I'll buy my tickets, but if anyone wants to use them they're welcome to them.

[Mr. Happy]

I've been asked to sit elsewhere in the stadium, and need to.  I'll buy my tickets, but if anyone wants to use them they're welcome to them.

If I can only negotiate a cheaper airfare, I'll come down.

[homer]

I've been asked to sit elsewhere in the stadium, and need to.  I'll buy my tickets, but if anyone wants to use them they're welcome to them.

I would like them, please.

[NeilT]

There are two, and you are welcome to them.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

If I can only negotiate a cheaper airfare, I'll come down.

Your best bet is to drive to Spokane ($396), compared to Missoula ($956).

[HudsonHawk]

I've been asked to sit elsewhere in the stadium, and need to.  I'll buy my tickets, but if anyone wants to use them they're welcome to them.

You're lucky.  I'm often asked to not even enter the stadium. 

[Mr. Happy]

Your best bet is to drive to Spokane ($396), compared to Missoula ($956).

SD: Where did you find the $396, which is doable? Even on the "Negotiator," the best price I was getting out of Spokane was almost $800.

[BudGirl]

I know I heard this somewhere at work, and if it is wrong someone here will let us all know, but I believe Tuesdays are the days airlines have the best deals.  No idea why, but you could definitely check tomorrow.

[HudsonHawk]

SD: Where did you find the $396, which is doable? Even on the "Negotiator," the best price I was getting out of Spokane was almost $800.

Southwest has Spokane-Houston at $363, but that's each way. 

[Mr. Happy]

Southwest has Spokane-Houston at $363, but that's each way. 

That's more in line with what I was finding out of Spokane.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

SD: Where did you find the $396, which is doable? Even on the "Negotiator," the best price I was getting out of Spokane was almost $800.

I googled Spokane to Houston but the price was for April 11 to 15. Good price but you'd miss the game.

[Andyzipp]

Do we have a general schedule for Sunday?  My wife keeps insisting that it's Easter, and that I have to spend time with family or a rabbit or something.  I think getting out anytime before 3 is going to be difficult.

Is the agenda still Tall Texan, Spanish Flowers, Flying Saucer, MMPUS?  Where will the group be between 3 and 4?

[Ron Brand]

Do we have a general schedule for Sunday?  My wife keeps insisting that it's Easter, and that I have to spend time with family or a rabbit or something.  I think getting out anytime before 3 is going to be difficult.

Is the agenda still Tall Texan, Spanish Flowers, Flying Saucer, MMPUS?  Where will the group be between 3 and 4?

Since I'm the guy with the tickets, my plan for right now is noonish at the Tall Texan, oneish at Spanish Flowers, then I'll go to the hotel and some will probably go to the Saucer. I'll catch up with that group and then for whomever is left to give tickets to, I'll be at the corner of Crawford and Prairie, across from the Union Station entrance. I'll most likely be wearing my blue Astros hat and last year's Jackie Robinson Day Brocail jersey, trolling for rough trade and such. I expect to go inside the park by 6:15, so if you're concerned about timing please get in touch with me as early as possible to nail things down.

This is just my first stab at the schedule, but those are the places I plan on being at and the order I'll be there in. If the times shift then I'll change accordingly.

[BudGirl]

Since I'm the guy with the tickets, my plan for right now is noonish at the Tall Texan, oneish at Spanish Flowers, then I'll go to the hotel and some will probably go to the Saucer. I'll catch up with that group and then for whomever is left to give tickets to, I'll be at the corner of Crawford and Prairie, across from the Union Station entrance. I'll most likely be wearing my blue Astros hat and last year's Jackie Robinson Day Brocail jersey, trolling for rough trade and such. I expect to go inside the park by 6:15, so if you're concerned about timing please get in touch with me as early as possible to nail things down.

This is just my first stab at the schedule, but those are the places I plan on being at and the order I'll be there in. If the times shift then I'll change accordingly.

I would recommend leaving tickets at will-call.  That way you don't have to wait for anyone.

[Andyzipp]

Since I'm the guy with the tickets, my plan for right now is noonish at the Tall Texan, oneish at Spanish Flowers, then I'll go to the hotel and some will probably go to the Saucer. I'll catch up with that group and then for whomever is left to give tickets to, I'll be at the corner of Crawford and Prairie, across from the Union Station entrance. I'll most likely be wearing my blue Astros hat and last year's Jackie Robinson Day Brocail jersey, trolling for rough trade and such. I expect to go inside the park by 6:15, so if you're concerned about timing please get in touch with me as early as possible to nail things down.

This is just my first stab at the schedule, but those are the places I plan on being at and the order I'll be there in. If the times shift then I'll change accordingly.

Can I get your cell, so I can make sure to find you?

[Ron Brand]

I have the tickets allocated like this:

ETA-6 (includes Mr. Happy's and PCOL2000's tickets)
Raups-2
Zipp-1
Ron Brand-1
BudGirl-1
Homer - 2 (using NeilT's tickets)
GBB-2
Hudsonhawk-1
DVauthrin-1
Gleach-2
Sphinx-1

Please let me know if this is incorrect.

[EasTexAstro]

Mrs. ETA and I will meet you at Spanish Flowers to get the tickets (6). We will have to head back and round up all the kids after that, so we will probably just meet you at the game. Thank you for doing all of this RB.

[JimR]

I have the tickets allocated like this:

ETA-6 (includes Mr. Happy's and PCOL2000's tickets)
Raups-2
Zipp-1
Ron Brand-1
BudGirl-1
Homer - 2 (using NeilT's tickets)
GBB-2
Hudsonhawk-1
DVauthrin-1
Gleach-2
Sphinx-1

Please let me know if this is incorrect.

how much are the tickets?

[Ron Brand]

how much are the tickets?

For you, $28 each.  For everyone else, $28 each.

[Ty in Tampa]

For you, $28 each.  For everyone else, $28 each.

How come he gets a deal??

[Mr. Happy]

I'm absolutely ill about missing this event.

[JimR]

I'm absolutely ill about missing this event.

oh, bullshit. you chose not to come. henceforth, you and DS are The Boycott Twins.

[Andyzipp]

oh, bullshit. you chose not to come. henceforth, you and DS are The Boycott Twins.

What does that make chuck and Limey?

[NeilT]

oh, bullshit. you chose not to come. henceforth, you and DS are The Boycott Twins.

How come I don't get to be included?  I flaked out too.

[Andyzipp]

How come I don't get to be included?  I flaked out too.

Constantly flaky excuses flaking out.

[NeilT]

Constantly flaky excuses flaking out.

There you go then.  Mr. Happy and DS just need to be less consistently consistent.

[Mr. Happy]

oh, bullshit. you chose not to come. henceforth, you and DS are The Boycott Twins.

I guess that I reluctantly resemble that remark.

[HudsonHawk]

What does that make chuck and Limey?

That depends on the Supreme Court's upcoming ruling, doesn't it?

[Bench]

That depends on the Supreme Court's upcoming ruling, doesn't it?

I thought that was chuck and alkie.

[Limey]

What does that make chuck and Limey?

Just friends.  Honest.

[Hoping Jackastro doesn't see this]

[Limey]

FWIW, I am going to try and come by either TT or SF or both.  Just not doing the game.

[Mr. Happy]

FWIW, I am going to try and come by either TT or SF or both.  Just not doing the game.

When are going to call a halt to this silly boycott?

[HudsonHawk]

I thought that was chuck and alkie.

Alike is a whore.

[Limey]

When are going to call a halt to this silly boycott?

When they start winning, of course.

[NeilT]

When they start winning, of course.

I understand that the Diamond Seats bar is completely redone.

[Bench]

I understand that the Diamond Seats bar is completely redone.

Limey's return status has been upgraded to "Next time gleach invites me."

[gleach]

Limey's return status has been upgraded to "Next time gleach invites me."

Limey has a standing invitation, he just doesn't want to be seen with me.

[HudsonHawk]

Limey has a standing invitation, he just doesn't want to be seen with me.

And yet, knowing that I'm a magnet for stimulating conversation and hot chicks, I don't.

[gleach]

And yet, knowing that I'm a magnet for stimulating conversation and hot chicks, I don't.

I thought you lived in Midland and drank scotch exclusively these days.

[Ron Brand]

Hey, we get Lyle Lovett to sing the National Anthem!

[austro]

Hey, we get Lyle Lovett to sing the National Anthem!

The Rangers probably got him. We just get to attend.

[Ebby Calvin]

Sorry I'll miss the festivities. Not that Neil would notice.
Hope you guys have fun.

[NeilT]

Sorry I'll miss the festivities. Not that Neil would notice.
Hope you guys have fun.

Notice who?

[DVauthrin]

I plan on getting there around 5 or so, depending on what time my family's Easter festivities end.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Looks like we'll have to get our tickets at will-call.  Family obligations will keep us from getting to the park before 6:15ish.

[Ron Brand]

Looks like we'll have to get our tickets at will-call.  Family obligations will keep us from getting to the park before 6:15ish.

Tickets WILL NOT BE AT WILL CALL. I already have them in hand. I will be at Crawford and Prairie until about 6:15, standing around and looking like a fool.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Gotcha.  I'll bust it to be there by 6:15 in that case.

[JimR]

what time should we be where to partake of adult beverages and to eat queso?

[Ron Brand]

what time should we be where to partake of adult beverages and to eat queso?

My initial stab hasn't been met with any other conversation. It was:

noonish, Tall Texan

oneish, Spanish Flowers

threeish, Flying Saucer

five-thirtyish, head to the ballpark and troll for cash

six-fifteen, imma goin in to my seat

[NeilT]

My initial stab hasn't been met with any other conversation. It was:

noonish, Tall Texan

oneish, Spanish Flowers

threeish, Flying Saucer

five-thirtyish, head to the ballpark and troll for cash

six-fifteen, imma goin in to my seat

I have to catch my ride to the park at 6:30, and as Andy mentioned, my family says I have to eat lunch with them because it's Easter.  It's a damned imposition.  I certainly plan to show up at the Flying Saucer round 3-ish. 

Are there post-game plans?

[Ron Brand]

I have to catch my ride to the park at 6:30, and as Andy mentioned, my family says I have to eat lunch with them because it's Easter.  It's a damned imposition.  I certainly plan to show up at the Flying Saucer round 3-ish. 

Are there post-game plans?

Generally the group retires to the Saucer again, but I have not heard anyone talk about this at all. I hope others chime in.

[MRaup]

Generally the group retires to the Saucer again, but I have not heard anyone talk about this at all. I hope others chime in.

We're staying overnight this year, so The Raups should be good for post-game party-time.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

I'm gonna do my beer drinkin' before the ballgame and bust ass back to the slack shack after.

[austro]

I'm gonna do my beer drinkin' before the ballgame and bust ass back to the slack shack after.

Man, you must be a *lot* younger than me. Not that that would be all that difficult anymore.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Man, you must be a *lot* younger than me. Not that that would be all that difficult anymore.

Nah, I think were approximately the same age. I often employee questionable judgement.

[JimR]

My initial stab hasn't been met with any other conversation. It was:

noonish, Tall Texan

oneish, Spanish Flowers

threeish, Flying Saucer

five-thirtyish, head to the ballpark and troll for cash

six-fifteen, imma goin in to my seat

ok, thanks.

[BudGirl]

My initial stab hasn't been met with any other conversation. It was:

noonish, Tall Texan

oneish, Spanish Flowers

threeish, Flying Saucer

five-thirtyish, head to the ballpark and troll for cash

six-fifteen, imma goin in to my seat

I hope to make it to the saucer.  Can you pm your phone number to make sure I know where to find you?

[NeilT]

We do have two extra tickets for tomorrow night's exhibition game.  If anyone wants them they're welcome to them.

[drew corleone]

I will meet y'all at FS. Is that Opening Day cigar fest location? I will hit Spec's on Saturday.

[DVauthrin]

Generally the group retires to the Saucer again, but I have not heard anyone talk about this at all. I hope others chime in.

I plan on going to the Saucer after the game for a little while at least, until it's time to get home for work Monday. 

[HudsonHawk]

I plan on going to the Saucer after the game for a little while at least, until it's time to get home for work Monday. 

Monday is a holiday, so no worries.

[Mr. Happy]

You all have a safe and grand time! I'll be here watching the game with my shooting star jersey on and manning the GZ, so check there and comment.

[Ron Brand]

Assuming we can get a signal. We'll be closer to the satellites.

[Mr. Happy]

Assuming we can get a signal. We'll be closer to the satellites.

I know that you will try, and that's what counts. Who's got recaps for sunday games? Is that you, RB?

[chuck]

Assuming we can get a signal. We'll be closer to the satellites.

I was watching the Cubs the other day and they were joking about opening in Pittsburgh, how cold it would be but that at least in the press box they would be closer to the sun.

Yes, I have watched more Cubs than Astros this spring. Sue me. I imagine that many of us will find ourselves doing the same simply because the Cubs will be on TV and the Astros won't.

[Ron Brand]

I know that you will try, and that's what counts. Who's got recaps for sunday games? Is that you, RB?

Yes. Don't stay up waiting for it.

[Mr. Happy]

Yes. Don't stay up waiting for it.

I'd never make it staying up that late. I wasn't expecting to see it until tuesday.