Hello Friends and Family,
Link to this year's index by clicking here.
Chase Field, Part 1 |
The baseball season is over for the Diamondbacks — but the stadium, located in downtown Phoenix, is still open for business. On Thursday, I went for the tour of Chase Field. The original naming rights were purchased by Bank One and when it opened in 1998 the stadium was officially named Bank One Ballpark although all the locals (and the local media) called it BOB. When Bank One merged with JP Morgan Chase, the name had to change — but somehow, Chase Field does not have that same ring. Regardless of its name, it is one of the most impressive stadiums in the country. It has a retractable roof — you can see the nested, telescoping segments atop the front of the stadium — with a matching set of three segments at the other end. |
|
|
Also, the lobby floors and walls are decorated to recognize the contribution of the local Native American tribes that have helped fund the local sports facilities. |
The second stop on the tour is out in left field where Friday's Front Row Sports Grill is located. This photo was taken from the dining area outside the restaurant itself where the fortunate few can watch the game as they munch on their favorite T.G.I. Friday's meals. Note that Friday's is open year-round — in fact, you can eat your lunch there after finishing the tour. You will notice the grass mowing tractor in the infield — yes, this "indoor stadium" has real grass. It is a special blend that can tolerate the heat of Phoenix and the reduced light levels caused by the stands. The roof is normally left open during the day so the grass can get as much sunlight as possible. It will be closed prior to most games and the giant air conditioning unit turned on. If the weather is pleasant during the evening, they may open the roof just prior to the start of a night game. Remember that cool air is heavier than warm air, and on such nights, it remains comfortable. |
The swimming pool can be rented as a suite holding up to 35 guests for $3,500 per game. Note that you have to make your reservation early — no later than the beginning of the season — the dates go fast. |
|
|
|
And this is the view from the suite I was able to tour. Not bad. Not bad at all. Note that you can see Friday's Front Row Sports Grill that we visited earlier. Above it is a playground and batting cage for the kids. |
One of the interesting attributes of the press box is that every reporter is assigned a particular spot. The small labels under the windows list the name of the reporter and his/her media company. The ones visible here are for the Arizona Republic, our major newspaper in Phoenix. |
To be continued... |
Life is good.
Aloha,
B. David
P. S., All photos and text © B. David Cathell Photography, Inc. — www.bdavidcathell.com