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View From The Corner Booth
Good day to all,
Hey sports fans, how about those Patriots?! Nothing I love more than an organization, company, team or group that out performs all the expectations or predictions of the experts. Nine months ago, the Pats were not even predicted to win their division, let alone go 13-3 on the regular season, secure home field advantage in the playoffs, win two playoff games and then - we are headed to the Super Bowl!
Anyone going to Indy? Earlier in the year, I said if the Pats end up making it to the Super Bowl, I may just have to go to the game. Given the fact that Brady probably has only 2-3 years left on the field, it may be their last appearance at the Super Bowl for some time. The chance of returning under Brady's leadership is slim, and the chances of the Pats returning after he retires are even slimmer. Since I have been fortunate enough to attend 3 Super Bowls in the past, I have decided not to attend this time around. Instead, I'll host a Super Bowl party at my camp.
Since I opened the Dine-ah in 2007, it seems time is a lot more precious. That's probably because I have less spare time, unless I really work at carving it out of my schedule. I simply do not want to take 4 days - maybe more depending on flights - to see 60 minutes of football.
At camp, our Super Bowl Sunday will start around 10 am. We'll get everything set up, including food and beverages, and have the place all cleaned up the next morning. I can spend time with family and friends, see all the plays from 4 or 5 different angles, have beer and snacks at my finger tips, have quick access to the bathroom (and use the great outdoors if there is a line!), have guaranteed good phone coverage to talk to other friends who are at different Super Bowl parties, have the ability to "high five" my sons when the Pats score, lay down and take a nap if times get too festive, turn the t.v. off should the game turn ugly, go for a walk, move around if the person next to me is annoying, return emails to you newsletter readers at half-time and yell at the officials at the top of my lungs. Oh, I guess I could yell at the officials at the game also!
All kidding aside, part of my decision not to go is based on the fact that airline tickets, hotel accommodations and game tickets are ridiculously priced because of demand. With so many people struggling in this economy, the money it would cost to go to the game can be better used elsewhere.
With all that said, I will be making a significant donation to the Kennebec Valley United Way Fuel Oil Assistance Fund in the name of the patrons of the China Dine-ah and the customers of G&E Roofing.
Last night was another successful Wednesday night trivia at the Dine-ah (thank you Jon James!), with 38 people in attendance. We have moved into the front dining area, which turned out really well. This left the back dining area for patrons who wanted to have dinner without listening to the questions. We have plenty of additional room, so if you'd like to join us next week, please feel free. Oh, and if anyone would like to join in on the Super Bowl party, just let me know. My camp is located in Palermo. It will be standing room only, but I promise enough food for all!
On another note, Sherri Glidden, our Front of the House manager who greets and seats most of you during busy times, is in Ohio visiting her daughter, son-in-law and 3 grandsons. We all hope you are enjoying your most-deserved vacation and look forward to your safe return. Thank you Michelle, for filling in during Sherri's absence. We have a great team and I appreciate you all so much.
GO PATS!
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