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Game 30 | Mets, 9 — Dodgers, 6 | August 20
Ballpark Summary
Dodger Stadium was a thrill because 26 of our close friends attended
the game and because it was the final chapter of our grand project.
Dodger Stadium is a great ballpark and has a lot of history in this
often superficial billion-dollar business. It does however, have a
number of problems.
Ballpark Perks
There’s no better place to start the Perks section than with the
food, specifically the Dodger Dog. Not only is this one of the finest
franks, but the condiments are also well-presented and tasty.
The
onions and relish are dispensed easily with the turn of a crank. No
messy packets or plastic spoons. The peanuts are still available in
the “two-bagger” form, a must for longtime Dodger fans.
The ballpark itself is built into a deceptively tall hillside in
Chavez Ravine. Even the entry to the nosebleed seats is at a “ground
level”. These seats also provide a panoramic view of the lingering
smog layer that suffocates Downtown L.A.
Ballpark Downers
Despite the unique surroundings and history associated with
Dodger Stadium, our experience was scarred by overzealous regulations.
First, we were hassled by security in the parking lot for playing
catch. After we followed the cease and desist order, we were soon
harassed again for “loitering” in the parking lot. Security tried
to usher us into the stadium, citing our tailgate activities. Soon
after, as we prepared to cross the continent-like parking lot to
take our seats, security haggled with us one more time, urging us
strongly to get to our seats in the ballpark.
After we took our seats in the bleachers, Dodger Stadium surprised
us again – no beer sales in the bleachers. Compounding this was
the unique stadium access system. If seated in the bleachers, a
fan does not have access to the main concourse. Anywhere in the
stadium, fans are relegated to their section – upper deck, loge,
lower deck. In no other ballpark were these kind of tight regulations
witnessed.
It should be noted that a “No tailgating policy” should be considered
un-American. Likewise, not having the freedom to roam about the
stadium is un-American.
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