SITUATION ROOM
Cupid had several conferences in his office where Soldier Sam again put forward his idea about the Scavenger Hunt being an ideal fit for the kind of Valentines Day Activity that Sarina would want to participate in.
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"Couldn't we not talk about the Scavenger hunt?" suggested Sarina. "I have a couple of friends that have gotten lost on Scavenger Hunts. They are still lost, stuck in other cities where their mission led them.
"You're lucky to be here in LA, Sarina. Where you don’t have to be on a Scavenger Hunt. I just thought..” began Soldier Sam, “that it might be a fun divergence from work just on one day out of the year. And Valentines Day seems like a great time to try it out.
“Most likely, Soldier Sam, the biggest challenge for you will be coming up with the concept and the list of things to find.” Cupid observed.” I don’t know if your brain will be able to come up with good ideas.”
"That's as it may be." replied Soldier Sam. “Have you ever been on a Scavenger Hunt? If not, get ready. You're not going to believe what kind of crazy fun you've been missing!”
"Well, what's your idea of the start of the Scavenger Hunt, Soldier Sam?” asked Cupid. "I don’t like the items you are starting off with on your list. It just doesn’t seem like a good fit.
"So then, we got to have something in its place. That's why I want to plant the Scavenger Hunt Scene--" replied Soldier Sam.
"I'm late to luncheon," said Sarina. “Maybe I could go out and get a bite to eat while you and Cupid hammer out some ideas.
Soldier Sam believed in his abilities to figure something out. He was, after all, someone who has nothing better to do that dream up conditions for a Scavenger Hunt.
"Cupid can call me anything he likes, but somebody's got to write this Scavenger Hunt Scene. I'd tell Cupid everything, -but I think he would just use his Arrows on someone else, and we wouldn’t have any Valentines Day Activity for ourselves.."
So Sarina left Soldier Sam alone for the lunch hour, trying to rouse him to action, but with no avail.
Desperate to convince Cupid of the Scavenger Hunt’s merits—Soldier Sam had a drink of Bourbon and attacked the story alone.
Pacing Cupids office with the bourbon bottle in his hand he started to explain to Cupid what exactly a Scavenger Hunt was--interspersing the dictation with a short, biased history how Sarina first agreed to come with him to Cupids Studio in the first place.
When Sarina returned from Lunch, Soldier Sam had a couple of ways he could explain the Concept to Cupid.
The next couple of hours were the toughest in Soldier Sam’s life--not even a moment to consider how much Sarina meant to him. He just had to focus on what a Scavenger Hunt really was. Gradually with several missteps, his battered brain got in motion.
“Well it’s just like this, Cupid..” Soldier Sam began…
Sarina interrupted Soldier Sam..“A scavenger hunt is a game in which the players — either individuals or teams — compete to see who can obtain the most items from a list. Sounds easy enough, right? Well, not necessarily…” explained Sarina.
'But this one has got me down,' said Cupid '--because how did the artillery shell get on the list? Won’t you be able to find that a lot easier than Sarina would?”
“Trust me Cupid,” Soldier Sam insisted. “There are several items on the Scavenger Hunt List that will be easier for Sarina to find than me. Like take for instance ingredients for a Taco, a football helmet, Hair Styling Products, the examples go on..”
Well, if that’s the case, if you explain it that way, that it will be an even-handed competition, then I am inclined to support your Valentine’s Day Activity Concept” Cupid decided.
The Valentines Activity authorization brought a glitter into Sarina’s eyes.
“Yes, Soldier Sam, said Sarina excitedly, “Let’s plan a scavenger hunt that takes us through LA to different places you’ve been or someplace completely new that’s important to you. We can construct clues that we each have to solve and end up somewhere where we can have great dinner together.”
“That sounds like a fantastic idea, Sarina.” Cupid threw his full weight behind the Valentines Day Activity and said he would be surprised if anyone else this year submits a better idea.
“Have fun on Valentines Day, Sarina and Soldier Sam.” Cupid sent them on their way. “Happy Hunting!”
Soldier Sam’s Training for New Starship Missions was not at all like what he expected. Rams Mascot was not a typical Instructor.
Soldier Sam tried to jump to the Moon on his next attempt, tried to leave the orbit of the training range. Rams Mascot and Soldier Sam learned to trust each other, such that even if either had been able to leave their existences at the door, it would have dire consequences for the mission that was to follow, Not only for themselves but for Rams Nation as well. Soldier Sam was learning how to fly in Moon’s airless space, and any distraction from the mission would cause massive upheaval if he changed his path around it.
As you prepare for basic training an overwhelming amount of emotions will hit you. While the physical tasks are prevalent, it’s the mental growth you go through that gets you to the next level - finding the courage to move forward, while experiencing the fear of wondering if life will ever be the same. You will move most likely from a life of excessiveness to a life of necessities.
The goal of the combat engine is to maneuver a model of a spaceship on the playing board, collecting essential supply items avoiding collisions with astronomical bodies, and destroying the enemy. Players roll customised dice for each duty station to perform their functions—if their station has power. For example, the helm station has dice with symbols indicating various combinations of forward movement for one or two spaces, coming about, and turns to port or starboard.
Engaging targets as part of a team.
Battle Drills are practiced responses to a given situation that represent the ideal mechanism for the response. They define our normal response to situations in ideal conditions however, your squad leader will have received training on their use and implementation. As such they tend to fall more as guidelines that are adapted to the situation in the field.
You should be prepared for this by having the best possible knowledge of these drills so that you are able to understand how to modify and implement them. This drill is designed to be employed when the team is transitioning-- moving positions as opposed to emplaced in cover and concealment The setting of this battle drill is that a squad is moving as two distinct fire teams, with the squad leader in the rear half or centre of the element.
Tell me a little bit about your Training experience, Soldier Sam.
On this particular mission, we had to carefully approach the vehicle and check it out. If it’s an enemy, you can share that intel with Intelligence teams.
The members of our group are a hardy, adventurous folk. We take to the void in our little craft. We always have— red boats, white canoes, and blue longboats.planes made out of steel and armed with the tin cans we used to shoot into space.
To make a long story short I would have to explain how they coped with the reappearance of the silver moon in the sky at the same time as the Princess had moon rocks in her hand, but that is enough of the fairy tale for now.
Rams Mascot finally got pretty much upset at the journalist because his pieces were so uninteresting. "See here, meathead" Rams Mascot snapped at him one day, "Why is it we never have anything hot from you on the reviews on the training pavilion?
Here we have that station packed with people on this installation--more than any other camp in this hemisphere except that one on the east coast --and yet you never get any real low down on them. Now shoot over to target range and dig up something lively."
The recruit shambled out and came back in short time. He said he had something interesting to write about it.
"Well, start it off snappily," said Rams Mascot. "Something people will read."
That writer set to work and in a couple of hours brought a sheet of typewritten paper to the desk; it was a story with the typical words length about some PT scam that had broken out among the troops.
Its opening sentence was simple but arresting. It read: "Who has noticed the morning exercises got reduced to make the grade without Rams Mascots’ approval?”
In a Galaxy far away from Earth, that is where the PT was usually scheduled when we landed after our morning Rocket Sorties. It was a planet called a name that reminded us of the worst part of basic training.
Us troops were afraid that an unknown force ‘Circle the World’ was circling all the planets in the galaxy. We worried that it wouldn’t be long till the Grand Ring Master arrived and shrunk our beloved planet.
We searched high and low looking for help, they even resulted in travelling to the moon since we believed only the regiments there would be able to help us.
Anything else you want to tell me, Soldier Sam ?’
Yes, Sarina. It goes a little something like this.
"I have not seen a female commander move the ball down the field like you have over the last 5 years.”
TOUR SITE SCENES
“Mrs. Claus’ Little Helper”Sarina and Soldier Sam had arrived at the North Pole!!
So how does Santa keep it all together? What happens when Santa needs to balance his checkbook? How does he delegate different jobs to his elves? How does Santa run reports to see which toys are more popular in a certain year?
Wow! We are going to get a Tour of Santa’s office, where all the important Christmas decisions are made!
Sarina was walking through the candy cane hallway, and she saw a huge door that said, “Do not enter,” so she did. There was a huge desk with a big, leather chair. I sat down. I was sinking. I could barely see over the desk. In the corner of the desk, there was a list as long as the ocean. It took me hours to find my name. I was on the naughty list. Sarina was on the nice list. I traded with her. She won’t care. Sarina doesn’t even believe in Santa Claus. In the top drawer, there were millions of cookies. It was wonderful to get my wish and see the toy shop with the amazing toys and Santa’s office where the list felt like it would never end. I want to keep this experience in my heart forever!
After seeing Santa’s office, let’s check out another part of the North Pole—Where all the Work gets done. This is where the magic happens!
When Sarina was in the workshop, she saw lots and lots of toys. The workshop was so big that millions of elves could have fit in there! I saw a thing that smashed toys that were flat and a wrapping machine that wrapped all the presents, and I saw tables that elves were sitting at. They were pounding nails and sawing wood.
It was another busy day at the North Pole for Santa’s elves. In Santa’s Workshop, the elves were busy testing all the trains to make sure they worked in time for Christmas.
There were all types of train engines and train cars going clickety-clickety clack as they went around the train track. There were locomotives and steam engines, and boxcars and cabooses.
“Oh, Mrs. Claus! You made the loveliest gingerbread village I have ever seen!” exclaimed Sarina. “May I help you?”
“Why thank you, Sarina,” said Mrs. Claus as she continued her work. “But making a village like this takes great skill and patience. Why not sit and watch as I put on the finishing touches. There is plenty of gingerbread to snack on while you watch.”
“Thank you, Mrs. Claus, but I must go and find something important to do like yell at Soldier Sam,” said Sarina disappointedly as she left the kitchen.
Detective Sarina realized she had walked into a problem when she heard the extra set of footsteps. Hearing the footsteps on the stairs made her remember what Santa had said, Soldier Sam had mysteriously vanished from the Elves’ Shop.
“Sarina and Soldier Sam. I have a Holiday Mystery for You to solve. Announced Santa.
“Oh, Santa. I’m great at Solving Mysteries! Maybe Soldier Sam could help too. What’s your problem, Santa?” Sarina asked.
Santa sure did have a mystery that no one at the North Pole could solve.
You are at the airport and notice someone arriving and making a phone call. Right away you see them walk over to get a return ticket. You muster the courage to ask who they were calling.
Go on, Soldier Sam, tell me more about your Christmas Activities” Santa said. “ I’ll consider using my Sleigh to Deliver Presents now, that sounds interesting.
“It is Santa, it is!” jumped in Sarina. “After the puzzle is solved, you get to tell your partner you have made reservations at that restaurant for dinner on Christmas Day. We even created a feature that lets people search for “crossword puzzle maker” to locate a website that automatically generates crossword puzzles.
“Hey Santa, take us to the candy house. I bet Soldier Sam and I will find a clue there to Solve your mystery.
“Well that about does it, Soldier Sam” decided Santa. “Your concept is approved.” Have fun on Christmas Day and keep me informed about all your product development efforts. I know people who could for sure put that to good use.
“Oh, Santa, Thank You!” Sarina was grateful. “You’re the Best in the Business!”
'Who's this Sarina?' Soldier Sam asked of Santa who was, of course in charge of approving all Christmas Activities Ideas.
. 'Every time I check out the football games all they ever got for excitement is this Sarina.' Soldier Sam noted.
'You know, she’s that Reporter with all that pizzaz,' explained Santa.
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'Sure, I know she’s a big star, you couldn't miss that. But what kinda record she got? What's she done to capture the hearts of football Fans everywhere? Asked Soldier Sam.
'
“What indeed, Sarina?” Soldier Sam was curious. Have you, like me battled the challenge of coming up with fresh words every week for so many years?
“Well, Soldier Sam, I have volumes of media credits that would knock your socks off, extending up to--well, long before you ever started writing scripts for Christmas Day Activities.” Sarina explained.
Ok, Sarina and Soldier Sam. I’ll take you to the North Pole's candy house Maybe you will find a clue to solve this mystery. Just be on your best behavior.
You are a Guest at the North Pole. You will learn many useful things about our Operation that will be sure to help you on any mission you might find yourselves on in the Future.
Visit of the Christmas candy house
So, did your day start out good? Did you enjoy yourself? Today, we will visit the North Pole's Christmas candy house. In fact, we need your ideas. Santa wants to renovate the candy house, but he's not sure what to do with it. He would like us to prepare several different digital models to inspire him. Santa has everything you need to make your candy house models. Hope you have very sweet fun!
“Hey, Santa!” Look Soldier Sam! Look at that Orange Box sitting under the Christmas Tree. What could possibly be in the Orange Box?”
“Why don’t you open the Orange Box up, Sarina. Maybe it has something you are looking for!”
“Ok, Santa. Come over here and check out this Orange Box with me, Soldier Sam!” Sarina was so excited. They opened the Orange Box together.
Look Soldier Sam!” Sarina exclaimed. “It’s the Clue we have been looking for. I just knew we would find something at this Stop on the North Pole Tour!”
Sugar Cubes
Those reindeer have a hard life, pulling a sleigh with enough presents for all the children in the entire world. Don’t they at least deserve a little sugary treat?
A big part of me totally loves these heart-shaped sugar cubes.
What a Great North Pole Tour you took me and Soldier Sam on, Santa. Now we have the clue to solve your mystery!” Sarina was so happy.
“Yes Sarina” Santa appreciated Sarina’s Smart Detective Work. Merry Christmas to you and Soldier Sam from all of us at the North Pole!”
MYSTERY
You are at the airport and notice someone arriving and making a phone call. Right away you see them walk over to get a return ticket. You muster the courage to ask who they were calling.
“I’m here to see Santa. You will never guess why I’m here. I’m the heir to his Cookie Fortune” explained the Reindeer.
“Santa doesn't speak in your reindeer code,' said Soldier Sam in a measured voice. 'We are only at the here at the North Pole Airport to pick up Mrs. Claus. We weren’t expecting any reindeer.
'--And I would very much like to see Santa,' continued the Reindeer Applicant. 'I hear that your Studio needs a stand in. Hasn’t there been some kind of issue with Rudolph?.'
They had been walking out of the airport on their way to the production office and it took Sarina a minute to grasp what the Reindeer had said.
'You're Santa’s what?' Sarina asked.
'I’m the solution to all of Santa’s problems this Christmas' said the reindeer, in a sort of sing-song. 'Legally I am the Long-lost Reindeer heir of Santa’s Stash of Cookies.
'Oh,' said Sarina. They had reached the Airport Gate. 'You want to see Santa?”
'
'Yes,' said the job-seeking Reindeer. 'If it is convenient.'
Soldier Sam looked at the flight arrival schedule on the wall.
'It may be,' Soldier Sam said. 'We can go and see. See if Santa has any notion of who you are—or claim to be' Soldier Sam said with some doubt.
As they started out towards the production center, Sarina exploded.
'What do you mean, "Santa’s long lost Cookie Heir"? I'm glad to see all of your ambition and all that, but say, are you really who you claim to be?'
“With certainty” 'the Reindeer responded 'At that time you and Sarina hadn’t even got to the North Pole yet.”
Sarina bent forward, looked with cold examination upon the Reindeer and threw up her shoulders without comment. The whole business was sure to put Santa into a fit.
When Sarina pointed out the Liquor Store on the way to the production studio, the Reindeer wanted to stop there 'to buy Soldier Sam a bottle of bourbon.'.
It seemed that Soldier Sam had conceived a passion for them back at Rams Games in LA, where they had just come from. The team was taking ship to somewhere else that didn’t matter next week.
'--whether or not,' said the Reindeer in response 'I get to see Santa. I do not care if I meet him. I am too new to replace Donner or Blitzen yet.. But they are already well on their way towards being washed by industry standards. But I'd like to see Santa.
'That's what I've heard,' said Soldier Sam. 'their demands are getting out of pocket. They even want a nine-hole golf course.” I mean, what kind of chump even wants to play that horrible game. I laugh at them.'
'I want to have an interest too Solider Sam admitted, but different. Bourbon has been my life. I want to watch those reindeer go deeper and deeper into that hole.'
'Till they explode,' Sarina agreed 'Just look at Rudolph and how he spends his time off set! I cried for him.' She pointed to her eyes, 'Tears!'
Soldier Sam nodded very sympathetically.
'I want only one thing. The Reindeer said, “That II should go on the lot anytime. No holds barred, nothing else. Only to be there. Should bother nobody. Only help a little from nothing if any other reindeer wants advice.'
Just to get a chance to meet with Santa” the Reindeer added.
'Then you did want something,' Sarina smiled. 'All right, all right by me. Where do you get off now?'
'Could you write me a pass?' the Reindeer pleaded. 'Just a word on your card?'
'I'll look into it,' said Sarina. 'Just now I've got a lot of things on my plate. I'm going to a luncheon to go over some scripts” After that I might check Santa’s gate schedule. You might be able to meet Santa after that.
Soldier Sam’s heart dropped. There it was again—that Luncheon, spreading like a dark cloud over all of Sarina’s responsibilities working with him.
'Soldier Sam,' the Reindeer said so sincerely that his voice almost broke, 'I wouldn't be surprised if Santa is much more of a menace this year than in years past. All the stress might be wearing him down.
“What are you trying to say, Mr. Reindeer?” Soldier Sam was interested in this kind of take on the business from industry.
He gets so many Cookies from the picture proceeds and I wouldn't be surprised if he was so radical that you had to have all new equipment and start all over again like you had to do when the robots started taking over the screen business.
'Oh my God!' complained Sarina.
'And me,' said the Reindeer. 'All I want is a pass and no Cookies. Only to leave things as they are.'
Sarina reached for her card case. “I guess we can fit you into Santa’s schedule. He might have some extra time at night when we are done shooing the scenes for the day.
A sort of bell rang in Soldier Sam’s head. If there was anything he liked it was a good bottle of bourbon--not this kind of trouble.
'I'll tell you,' Soldier Sam said with sudden decision. 'We'll try today’s stage, and take a look at Santa.
'But we are providing for you” Santa said. 'After all of our investigation we decided that you will get a supply of North Pole Cookies for the rest of your natural life.'
'What will I have to do for it?' questioned the Reindeer suspiciously.
'It will only be withdrawn in case--'
The reindeer whispered in Santa’s ear, and relief crept into Santa’s eyes. The condition was really just about the Cookies, really nothing to do with him at all.
The Reindeer began to get emotional with Santa.
'Goodbye, Santa he said, almost with affection.
Sarina and Soldier Sam stood looking after the Reindeer..
'Goodbye Mr. Reindeer,' Santa said. He stood watching the Reindeer heading back the airport and go out of sight. Then he turned away--feeling like—like... There were tears in his eyes.
Your Cookie Fortune Heir, whatever that meant thought Santa. After some consideration Santa concluded, Giving up all of Mrs. Claus’ Cookies, well anyways, it's better than not being
LAST DAY ON EARTH ADVENTURE
It was Saturday. The day before the Super Bowl. Sarina had been looking forward to going to the game ever since the Rams had won the NFC Championship.
Sarina decided to go out for Tea at the most exclusive Tea Room in LA to burn time until the next day.
Sarina looked Smashing as ever in her white away game Jersey with matching blue pants. She heard LA would be the most Dangerous city on the planet Super Bowl weekend, even dicier than the Columbian countryside right after the cartel coke houses were Raided.
Sarina thought it was too dangerous to carry a purse that night so she put her Super Bowl Ticket in her back pocket. She didn’t trust the Hotel Maids who might have keys to the safe in her room.
But Sarina didn’t want to bend the Ticket when she put the Ticket in her pocket since she was planning on framing above the fireplace in her house so It was sticking out of the top of her Pocket.
Sarina was approaching the Bar. “Really I Love R&B music, is of course the most musical sound in the world. You will hear it on the Juke Box this evening, Soldier Sam.
Sarina graciously agreed to grab a drink with Soldier Sam the night before the Rams Game.
As soon as the moon rises into the night the Lovely Music began. Sarina was DJ ing so well that everybody at the Bar was singing along.
“Let’s talk about the Super Bowl!' said Solider Sam. He was very much upset that he could not get a word in.
Well, good-bye” Sarina said “I have enjoyed our conversation very much, I assure you.'
'Conversation?” said Soldier Sam. There has been music on the whole time That is not conversation.'
Everyone here likes listening to the music, Sarina replied, 'and I like it myself. It makes time pass and prevents arguments.'
'But I like arguments,' said Soldier Sam.
'I hope not,' said Sarina. 'Arguments are no fun. Good-bye a second time; I’m calling myself a cab to get the hell out of here. You do not impress me much.
Sarina was standing in line waiting to get a table at the Tea House when Soldier Sam snatched it right out of her Pocket!
Sarina almost lost her balance as she spinned around to catch him before he made his way out the door onto the street since she would never keep track on him in pursuit. Everyone was out that day because of the game and it was pouring buckets, quite typical of LA on a day like this..
But instead of taking off full blast as he had hoped, Solider Sam tripped on a Tea Table and ran right into the closed door.
Sarina simply turned around and kicked him right square in his face. Then she reached down, picked Soldier Sam up by his shirt front, and shook him until his teeth rattled.
“Now that you have the chance to be here you had better avail yourself of it, for I am going to have another drink almost immediately” Soldier Sam was still thinking about drinking.”
I am a great favourite at this Bar, Solider Sam went on and on; in fact, some people came tonight in my honour. Of course you know nothing of these matters.”
'There is no good talking to you,' said Sarina.
'Well, that is your loss, not mine,' Soldier Sam was getting to be obnoxious. 'I am not going to stop talking merely because you are paying no attention. I like hearing myself talk. It is one of my greatest pursuits. I often have long conversations all by myself, and I am so clever that sometimes I don't understand a single word of what I am saying.
Then you should certainly fit in at this Bar,' said Sarina, calling another cab company because the first one still wasn‘t there
'How very much of a mistake not to stay here!' said Soldier Sam. 'I am sure that you have not often got such a chance of improving your perspective. However, I don't care a bit. Someone as interesting as me is sure to be appreciated some day.
'What a strange man you are! Sarina remarked. May I ask were you born like that, or is it the result of an accident?'
After that Sarina said, "Pick up my Ticket, you bum and give it here!"
Sarina said, "What did you want to steal my ticket for?"
“I’m just such the biggest Rams Fan! I wanted to go see them beat up on the Bengals” Solider Sam replied.
Sarina said, "You lie. You probably aren‘t even a Football Fan! I best you just wanted to Pawn it off for your Drinking Money!"
'It is quite evident that you have never been to this bar before,' answered Soldier Sam, 'otherwise you would know who I am. However, I excuse you. You will no doubt be surprised to hear that I can fly up into the sky, and come down in one piece.
'I don't think much of that,' said Sarina, 'as I cannot see what use it is to any one. Now, if you could put an actual sentence together or buy me a drink instead of focusing on yourself, that would be something.'
But Sarina,' Soldier Sam proposed in a serious tone of voice, 'I see that you don‘t understand. A person of my position is never useful. I have always been of opinion that hard work is simply the mistake of people who have nothing whatever to do.'
'Well, well,' said Sarina, 'everybody has their own perspective. I hope, at any rate, that you are not going to get kicked out of the Bar when my cab comes, which can‘t be soon enough.'
'Oh! Don‘t be ridiculous, protested Solider Sam.. 'I am a distinguished visitor. The fact is that I find this place rather tedious. There is no society here.. I shall probably go to the game, for I know that I am destined to make a big sensation.'
'I am made for this kind of Life,' continued Soldier Sam. Whenever we appear we excite great attention. I have not actually appeared myself, but when I do so it will be a magnificent sight. As for anyone else in this bar, it distracts my mind from higher things.' '
Ah! the higher things of life, how fine they are!' said Sarina; 'and that reminds me how much I want my cab to show up. Like right now“
Please don‘t go!' Solider Sam asked, 'I have a great deal to say to you;' but Sarina paid no attention to him.
By that time several people paused, stopped, turned to look, and some stood watching.
"If I turn you loose, will you run?" asked Sarina.
Soldier Sam didn’t speak.
"Um-hum! And your shoes are untied. I got a great mind to tie your shoes for you.
"I’m going to grab one of the wait staff to hold you down so I can tie your shoes right here in front of all the patrons, who were now all watching as Sarina started to drag Solider Sam behind her.
Sarina said, "You ought to be ashamed of yourself. I’m going to teach you right from wrong.”
Least I can do right now is to tie your shoes. Are you hungry for a biscuit?"
The Bartender came over to their seats. 'This must be the deputation,' said Soldier Sam, and he tried to look very dignified.
'Let us put Soldier Sam’s drink down the drain!' suggested Sarina, 'it might help to make him more reasonable.”
But the bartender served him anyway.
'Now I am going off!' Soldier Sam was getting too loud for the bar, and he made himself sit up straight. 'I know I shall fly this plane much higher than the stars, much higher than the moon, much higher than the sun. In fact, I shall go so high that--'
'Delightful! Sarina replied. I hope your flight will go on like this forever. Then I will never see you again.
'I knew you would create a great sensation,' Sarina offered, still wanting her cab to show up. She turned to look at the door.
"Was I bothering you when I came in here for Tea Time?" asked Sarina
Soldier Sam kept quiet.
"But you just had to have that Rams ticket said Sarina. "If you think my hurt feelings are not going to last awhile, you got another thing coming. For a split second I thought I was going to miss the Rams Game. When I get through with you, sir, you are going to remember the name Sarina for the rest of your life.
Sarina stopped, jerked him around in front of her, put a half-nelson about his neck, and continued to drag him around the Tea House.
She dragged Solider Sam to the very centre of the establishment so everyone could see she was in charge of the situation.
Soldier Sam could hear all the patrons laughing and talking as they all stopped drinking their Tea for a moment.
Sarina still had him by the neck in the middle of the room.
Soldier Sam was realizing he got much more than he bargained for when he tried to grab Sarina’s Ticket.
"Then, Soldier Sam, you better ask one of the staff to tie your shoes for you before we sit down at the table. You are going to eat a fucking biscuit and have a Cup of Tea with me after all that," said Sarina,
"You not going to take me to jail for trying to steal your Super Bowl Ticket?" asked Soldier Sam.
“Instead you are going to serve me some Tea and a Biscuit?
"Normally I wouldn’t even notice you, not even if you were standing next to me on the Train on the way to the Game and would not take you anywhere in public- certainly not to a table in the most exclusive Tea House in all of LA, but you kinda got my attention when you reached into my pocket" said Sarina.
"Here I am trying to get a cup of tea and a bite to eat and you snatch my Rams Ticket!”
"I just really wanted to go the Rams Game," replied Solider Sam.
Well Solider Sam, Sarina said "You could of just asked me and I would have gotten you an On-Field Pass"
Soldier Sam looked at her. There was a long pause.
A very long pause. After his shoes were tied and not knowing what else to do Soldier Sam turned around, wondering what to do next. The door was open.
He could make a dash for it down the hall. He could run, run, run, run, run!
Well now there so attention at our table, Soldier Sam. Lets let the staff fix us something to eat and draw Our Tea. You might as well put on this spare Rams Jersey so you will look presentable."
"Do you need somebody to go to Go to the Game with," asked Soldier Sam, "maybe to get some Nachos and a Beer or something?"
Sarina did not ask Soldier Sam anything. Instead, as they ate, she told him about her job as the actual Rams Team Reporter.
"Eat some more, Soldier Sam," Sarina said. “Let’s get you another Biscuit.
When they were finished eating Sarina got up and said, "Now, lets walk to the Stadium together to see the Big Game! And next time, do not make the mistake of latching onto the back of my pants without asking first.
"Thank you, Sarina! I can‘t wait to see the Rams Game with you" Solider Sam was so excited for what Sarina would say next!
STARSHIP ADVENTURE ACTIVITY
You and Rams Fans are aboard a Starship activated to find any possible planet in the universe to host Rams Football Games and Rams Fans regularly awaken from frozen sleep forgetting all the business about the sun exploding and earth going up in flames.
Rams Fans dream of a successful landing on a new planet and are ready to turn any planet they can find into a shrine for Rams Football and build a Stadium as great as the one on earth and establish the Rams in a new world. However, after checking your instruments, you realize that you are not at your intended destination.
Soldier Sam created a machine to execute navigational manoeuvres and plans to land your Starship on a planet in an unknown region of space devoid of the atmosphere and terrain that Rams Football requires and insists that this is the right place for you and Rams Fans despite the stark condition..
You disagree as you look out the window to see swarms of strange Drones that look like Footballs hovering around your ship, searching for a way inside. Would such an invasion cause panic among Rams Fans and threaten the continuity in purpose necessary to sustain you mission?
Is this all a part of Soldier Sam’s plan? Only time will tell the outcome and you are determined to save the Starship.
Soldier Sam bent over his console, fingers flying, reading off a string of pressure differentials. Maybe his brain had kicked over into a different mode, and he was ready for a little perspective for a change.
The Radio Crackled. Sarina and Soldier Sam both heard the noise.
“Rams Mascot is that YOU?!!” Sarina was shocked.
“Wait, Rams Mascot, I can’t hear you. Speak up!” Sarina shouted.
“Rams Mascot we have a bad connection. Hold on while Soldier Sam and I fix the ship so we can hear you. Sit Tight! Don’t Go anywhere, We will reestablish the connection,” Sarina Promised.
“Strain on the tensioners is peaking,” said Soldier Sam. “I’m going to try to dampen it with the attitude jets and see if I can buy us a little more time.”
“Good,” Sarina said. “Keep us in trim. I’m diverting atmosphere to the sectors where the crew is.”
This plan was to divert it away from the sectors. Sarina and Soldier Sam needed to move through on their way out. But neither of them thought they had a chance of escape. Not with three blown. Not without suits.
“They’re through to Sector 9,” Soldier Sam said.
The hull creaked. Soldier Sam ducked, then laughed at himself and went back to work. Popping noises followed; it was Sarina’s turn to flinch.
“Sealing the Sector 8 doors,” said Soldier Sam. “Opening the ones into 10. Get the pods open.”
“Working on the pods,” said Sarina. “OK, they’re unlocked.”
“Orderly evacuation,” Soldier Sam said. “It doesn’t look like the crew is panicking. First group are into the pods.”
“I’m panicking” Sarina thought but didn’t say it out loud.
Soldier Sam smiled. “I guess I didn’t need to” figured Sarina..
“First load of pods away,” said Soldier Sam. “Sector 9 door sealed. The door into Sector 11 is open. And I’ve got 12.”
“Where are You, Rams Mascot?” Sarina shouted into the radio receiver.
Rams Mascots voice came through loud and clear.
“WHERE ARE YOU, RAMS MASCOT?” Sarina wanted to know as soon as possible. “Can the Planet’s Terrain and Atmosphere support Rams Football””
“I’m on Planet ADHARA! Check it out, Sarina”
Planets spectra suggest that its lower stratosphere is hazy due to condensation of products caused by the interaction of ultraviolet radiation and methane
Sounds perfect for Rams Football” exclaimed Sarina.
Rams Mascot did not have the camera working, he feared that this particular Planet was forever out of range. Other means must be found to keep Soldier Sam out of this business.
Soldier Sam left the control room with his heart, stopping only momentarily to do some fixes in the engine and some Bourbon for himself, possibly the first of many drinks he and the crew had together.
Rams Mascot’s voice came over the radio, and to Sarina it seemed Rams Mascot had an aggravated problem. For once Sarina did not want to go after Solder Sam to put a lid on the can of his mischief.
It was not merely Solder Sam’s plan Sarina feared--it was the whole might of Rams Fans in search of a dream, a dream to see Rams Football once again, not just the Rams, but the Hype of the entire NFL.
Nerving herself with a drink, reaching the bottom of the Bourbon bottle, Sarina started to scope out Rams Mascot’s position.
We are coming to Rams Planet, Rams Mascot! But we have to make 2 Stops.
First we are going to Planet X for some Upgrades to our Starship since we expect to Drift for Long Time to land on Rams Moon.
Then New Starship Upgrades for Big Fight to get from the Moon to Rams Stadium.
We are going to make a day of it on Planet X while our ship gets fixed. It will be an Adventure!! Then we will go on a Day Trip on Your Rams Moon too.
“Look, Solder Sam!” Planet X is fast approaching “ said Sarina. Prepare for landing!!”
You almost have to brace yourself on the seat in front. It’s quite an experience, even on the smaller jets.
PLANET X ACTIVITY ADVENTURE
Sarina was lost on Magic Island on Thanksgiving Day. Sarina called out again, and again the echo followed. Then a wavering speck of light came suddenly out of the dark, shifting, disappearing, growing momentarily nearer and brighter.
Running towards it at full speed, Sarina found herself, to her great joy, face to face with Soldier Sam and a lantern.
"Thank God!" was the exclamation that burst involuntarily from Sarina’s lips.
Blinking and frowning, Soldier Sam lifted his lantern and peered into her face.
"What for?" he growled.
"Well--for you. I began to fear I should be lost in the snow." Sarina responded.
"Eh, then, folks do get cast away hereabouts fra' time to time, an' what's to stop you from bein' cast away likewise, if the Lord's so minded?
"If the Lord is so minded that you and I shall be lost together, friend, we must just figure out a way," Sarina replied; "but I don't mean to be lost without you.
Sarina found herself standing before a gate that led into a yard bordered by a strip of dirty earth, where there were flowers everywhere surrounding her and above the entrance was a board with the inscription--
Soldier Sam, Monumental Granite Mason, also High-Tech Warship Repair
From the yard itself came a cheery whistle, the noise of hammer blows, and the cold sound of steel meeting stone.
A sudden impulse made Sarina enter.
Soldier Sam was sitting with his back towards Sarina, busy at work on a slab of curious marble. He turned round as he heard Sarina’s steps and she stopped short.
Soldier Sam sat there, looking as dumb as a box of rocks, the sweat pouring from his face, which he wiped with a fancy pocket square handkerchief. But though the face was the same, the expression was absolutely different.
Soldier Sam greeted Sarina smiling, as if they were great friends, and offered a rose, or a stone, he wasn’t quite sure.
Sarina apologised for her intrusion into the Shipyard.
"Everything is uncomfortable outside," Sarina said. "This seems an oasis in the wilderness."
"I don't know about the oasis," Soldier Sam replied, "but certainly the weathers’ a bitch out there. Take a seat, Ma’am. What’s your name”?
“Sarina, pleased to meet such a hard worker like you.”
Soldier Sam pointed to the end of a marble bench near where he was at work, and Sarina sat down.
"That's a beautiful Turkey Piece you are chiseling away at ”Sarina said.
"In a way it is," Soldier Sam answered; "the surface here is as fine as anything you could wish, but there's a big flaw at the back, though I don't expect you'd ever notice it.
I could never make really a good job of a bit of marble like that. It would be all right in the summer; it wouldn't mind the blasted heat. But wait till the winter comes. There's nothing quite like frost to find out the weak points in stone."
"Then what's it for?" Sarina asked.
Soldier Sam paused.
"You'd hardly believe me if I was to tell you it's for an exhibition, but it's the truth. Artists have exhibitions: so do grocers and butchers; we have them too. All the latest little things in Stone Modeling for Holidays, especially for Thanksgiving, you know."
Soldier Sam went on to talk of marbles, which sort best withstood wind and rain, and which were easiest to work; then of his garden and a new sort of Roses he had bought just in case someone beautiful would show up. At the end of every other minute he would drop his tools and curse LA for existing.
Solider Sam finished his work, spit on the ground, and got up with a sigh of relief.
"There! what do you think of that?" he said, with an air of evident pride. The inscription which Sarina read for the first time was this--
“A Special Turkey: For Any Pretty Girl Named Sarina Comes ‘Round Here”
For some time Sarina sat in silence. Then a wave of curiosity. She asked Soldier Sam where he had seen the name.
"Oh, I didn't see it anywhere," replied Soldier Sam. "I wanted some name, and I put down the first that came into my head. Why do you want to know?"
"It's a strange coincidence, but it happens to be mine." Soldier Sam gave a long, low whistle.
"You probably heard my name," Sarina said.
"And you must have seen me somewhere and have forgotten it! Were you at Rams Stadium for a Football Game Recently?"
Soldier Sam had never been to Rams Stadium in his life. Both were silent for some time, both looking at the same thing, the name carved into the Granite Turkey.
"Come inside and take a look at the other projects I am working on. The Turkey is just a fun side-project for Thanksgiving. I try to make one for every holiday, just in case it brightens someone’s day" said Solider Sam.
Soldier Sam introduced Sarina to his Shipyard Team as a friend of his who was an artist. The result wasn’t quite what Sarina wanted, since she had to sit and express her admiration for nearly an hour, and there was no time to be wasted on a Holiday like Thanksgiving.
Sarina was examining all the Holiday Pieces and She noted there were perfect stone chiseled monuments from Valentines Day, and St. Patricks Day, to Halloween and 4th of July.
Sarina looked over at Soldier Sam and found him sitting on the bench smoking.
Sarina and Soldier Sam resumed the conversation at the point they had left off. "You must excuse my asking," Sarina said, "but do you know of anything you've done for which you could be put on one of those Reality TV Shows?"
“No. Not interested. This is good, honest work. We have contracts, but it’s always geared for the good of the teams. Business is prosperous enough. Last year I even gave turkeys to some of the children in the village, to brighten their day. But really, I am a good decent guy, despite what you might have heard about our products.
Soldier Sam got up, fetched a can from the porch, and began to water the flowers. "Regular schedule every day," he said, "and then the weather sometimes gets the better of the delicate ones. And Roses, man! They really require some attention. Do you live here on Magic Island? Any plans for Thanksgiving Dinner?"
Sarina told him this was her first trip to Magic Island. “For good or for bad, I live in LA. I don’t have any plans for Thanksgiving this year ‘cause I’m stuck here on Magic Island, Obviously.”
"It's like this," Soldier Sam said. "We'll look at the matter straight up. If you go back to LA tonight, you take your chance of accidents. A Turkey Cart may run over you, and there's always orange peels, not really a specific reference to Thanksgiving really, Everyone Loves a Good Orange, don’t they?."
Soldier Sam spoke of the improbable with an intense seriousness that would have been laughable to Sarina on a regular day. But Sarina did not laugh. This was not a regular day of any sort.
"The best thing we can do," Soldier Sam continued, "is for you to come with me looking for a real Turkey to go along with this Holiday Bourbon. Obviously, we can’t eat a stone turkey.”
To Sarina’s surprise, she agreed.
They were both sitting on the bench now, and Soldier Sam kept himself busy sharpening some tools, Bourbon Bottle in hand..
The other bench was cracked and Soldier Sam, who seems a handy guy with his tools, was planning to go about and fix it as soon as he finished putting an edge on his chisel.
Time was ticking so Sarina and Soldier Sam set out on their Turkey hunt.
Solider Sam started to scour Magic Island scrambling though a remote forest leading up to the edge of a beach. They were both going out of their heads trying to figure out how they were going to get supplies for Thanksgiving Dinner.
But Solider Sam could not find any Turkey, Stuffing, Potatoes with Gravy, Cranberries or Pumpkin Pie. All he could find were Nuts!
So Solider Sam gathered some Nuts in the woods and sat down under a tree and tried to eat them to make sure they were fit for Thanksgiving Dinner, but he did not have his issued pocketknife, and just could not open the nuts himself
"Oh," Solider Sam complained, "if only someone would come and open these nuts for me!"
Hardly had Soldier Sam said this when Sarina came back from the woods nearby where she was searching. And Soldier Sam observed such a beautiful sight!
Sarina was quite even more amazing than he had initially noticed when his attention was focused on his tools.
Sarina was like nothing Solider Sam had ever seen. What a Great Thanksgiving Day Surprise!
‘This Beach is the most desolate in the Island Chain. I don’t have much confidence in finding anything but Nuts here. Sorry, Sarina.”
As Sarina came near she was singing, “Nuts, Nuts, Nuts!! I will help you chase through the trees, I gather nuts just as I please. I place them in my jaws so strong, and crack and eat them all day long!"
Soldier Sam laughed at how wonderful Sarina sounded and his heart was filled with a Thanksgiving Wave of Gratitude when he saw Sarina, and he knew this Thanksgiving out be the best one ever if she stuck around.
Soldier Sam called out to Sarina: "If you know how to crack nuts, why, come here and open these."
But Sarina had conditions and spelled them out: "If I crack the nuts for you Promise that you'll give me a proper Thanksgiving Dinner."
"Yes, yes," responded Soldier Sam, "you shall have all the Thanksgiving Fixins you wish, only crack some for us, and be quick about it!"
Sarina did what she does, laughing hard all the time. Whenever she picked up the nuts there was a sharp CRACK, and a broken nut busted out of Sarina’s “Nutcracker” mouth.
Soon all the nuts were opened, and Sarina laid out her expectations.
"Thanksgiving Night! Night! Bite! bite! Your nuts are cracked, and now set our table with a Snap. I wish for Turkey, Stuffing, Potatoes with Gravy, Cranberries and Pumpkin Pie!”
“Hmmm…” Solider Sam was exasperated. He had already searched high and low to find what was expected on a Thanksgiving Day Table. There was just no supplies at all to be found.
Sarina was insistent "If you do not agree, Why, then, you've not produced for me! I am hungry, you are hungry, Quick, find the food soon or I’ll give you a slammin’ like that would make you remember me.”
But Soldier Sam replied: "You 'll knock my head off will you! Just sit at this tree stump just as fast as you can, or you’ll have to tackle even more of these nutshells.”
How far are we from out Thanksgiving Dinner Location, Soldier Sam?" asked Sarina.
"A Several hours walk, there are picnic tables set up there and there is also a docking for Ships, more or less, actually much less. The Ships stopped coming to Magic Island Years ago"
"And the nearest village?"
"The nearest village is just at the edge of the forest you were searching, we are basically on the outskirts of it. Right on t'other side." Soldier Sam replied.
"So you know anyone who lives around here then. Maybe they would have a fresh bottle of Bourbon for us to take to the beach with us?" Sarina suggested.
“We have made quick work of this one just after we opened it back at the shop,” Sarina observed.
"We could try our luck," said Soldier Sam, turning on the lantern again.
"You know someone, I presume?" inquired Sarina.
"Maybe I do." Answered Soldier Sam. “I know some business contact who comes by the Shop for my Stone Productions.
"Then I'm going with you." Sarina declared.
"It ain't o' no use," Responded Soldier Sam. "He wouldn’t let you in—not this guy. He’s tough to deal with usually."
"We'll see about that," Sarina replied, briskly. "Who is He?"
"Rams Mascot." Solider Sam replied. He has a cottage on the Island during off season when nothing is happening at Rams Stadium,”
“Why does he go to Magic Island?” Sarina asked.
"That's a mystery to you," was the unceremonious reply from Soldier Sam. But you can ask him yourself if he even answers the door.”
"Well, well; you lead the way, and I'll engage that Rams Mascot shall give us some Thanksgiving company and the rest” Sarina was insistent. “We will need some extra energy for out Turkey Hunt inbetween Rams Mascot’s house and the Ship Dock."
"Well you can just go ahead and ask him" muttered Soldier Sam; still holding on to his skepticism. He had known Rams Mascot for so long, he wasn’t about to make predictions, especially on Thanksgiving.
An imposing structure pained in Royal Blue and Sol loomed up presently out of nowhere, so Sarina and Soldier Sam readied themselves.
"Is this the house?" Sarina asked.
MOON LANDING
Finally Soldier Sam’s waiting period came to be over. Right on time, Sarina started the engine. The Starship began to run on the ground and soon it rose higher and higher.
The chairman was glad about one aspect of the next operation, that it was authorized without a piece of paper from the Oceana authorities, expanding the prospects of what could be accomplished in theatre. Some breaking news had been issued by the Mainland and the possibility existed that their patrols would be curtailed for the time being. It was announced over the wireless, and speculation was rampant among the officers. Some thought that the unit would be met with a better reception on the next island than in previous engagements, while other officers took a more cynical view away from the dispatch.
So Solider Sam joined Sarina in admiration of the Shark as she grabbed her Yankees Bat in case the Shark came close enough to sock it too him like he deserved for making the morning difficult.
Would Sarina’s Birthday ever come? Soldier Sam began to consider that they would sill be in this predicament of being denied access to the island.
As the Shark circled the boat, Sarina again reached into the bottom of the boat to grab the bottle of Scotch. But it was starting to run out and would be empty soon at this pace.
By the next day, it was becoming apparent that the situation on the islands was not as had been hoped, and suspicions were confirmed that the unit would be meet with some resistance and could not necessarily expect passage without incident or delay. The night passed quietly and uneventfully, although with morning, it became readily apparent that the Mainland forces had become entrenched along the pass, and several problems with the plan the chairman had concocted had been overlooked.
Sometimes the boom of the surf rang in Sarina’s ears, and he turned the craft seaward then and rowed harder.
Soldier Sam reported the radar had built a watch-fire on the beach, still so far away. It was too low and too far to be seen, but it made a shimmering, roseate reflection upon the bluff back of it, and this could be discerned from the boat.
The wind came stronger, and sometimes a wave suddenly raged out like a Bucking Bronx Bronco, and there was to be seen the sheen and sparkle of a broken crest.
It was soon obvious that unless we pressed forward and knocked the Mainland position out, establishing operations at our current post would become untenable. The only certain method of preventing the infiltration of the opposing forces had to be disregarded, however, part of the flanking fleet were sent to offer support to our position off the island. Throughout the day, the unit withstood repeated attempts to compromise our progress as they kept trying to break through.
Sarina and Soldier Sam dug and dug at the controls trying to find an access point until they found an opening on a path to crawl inside and shoot for the moon, and were shocked at what they saw.
Just as they thought, there sitting good as new was a space fighter jet that would help their approach. They high-fived and jumped in the air with excitement.
Sarina and Soldier Sam wasted no time at all and hopped right in. Their excitement turned into confusion when they realized, they didn’t know how to work it. Sarina clicked a few buttons which started the engine, and noticed a big red autopilot lever and switched that on too.
MOON ACTIVITY ADVENTURE
PART 1
It was a day like any else, but it wasn't. It was July 4th at Rams Stadium. Fireworks were sure to be shooting into the Los Angeles Sky on July 4th.
But before the Fireworks that night, there was business to be taken care of at Rams Stadium.
The Star of the Rams, Sarina was preparing to tell the world all about the Magic that was present in Rams Stadium on that Special Day.
The Story of that Magic started something like this. Everyone in the World wanted to hear from Sarina on this particular day.
Hi, I’m Sarina! Today isn’t like every day of the year, It’s a Magic Day. It’s July 4th, America’s Birthday. And I’m broadcasting live from Rams Stadium!
“Hey do you want to know my Super Powers?” Sarina asked.” Ok I'll tell you! I have wings! Yeah you heard me right Wings! I can fly like an airplane!”
“Hey again, I have another power. It's SUPER cool way better than yours! I can bend and shape any kind of metal. yeah I know AMAZING right! “ Sarina was certainly talented.
“And guess what I have a THIRD power! Yeah you heard me THIRD I'm like the best. I can…control any machine! I know it's awesome.” Sarina continued.
“I have a mentor whose name is Rams Mascot,” Sarina announced “ He's a real fan favorite at Rams Stadium. Soldier Sam told me that I would have to train with him so I could fight for Rams Stadium. Like OK, Soldier Sam I will! “
“So today Rams Mascot told me to come to Rams Stadium so I need to go there! Sarina exclaimed.
“Hey, Ram’s Mascot wassup!” Sarina greeted Rams Mascot
“Hey Sarina..” Rams Mascot answered. “Anyways meet your new 4th of July partner.”
Soldier Sam walked out on the tarp that covered the field at Rams Stadium. Sarina asked Soldier Sam to show her his powers but he blew her off
“Just show her,” Rams Mascot insisted.
“Ok.” Solider Sam agreed. He brought out his hand and fire came out of it!
“Ah!” Sarina stepped back and almost fell over with Surprise.
“What's your power?” Soldier Sam asked.
Sarina showed Soldier Sam all her powers. Soldier Sam couldn’t believe his eyes. “How do you have three?” he said shocked.
“I don't know, It’s like I was blessed with a Super Trifecta” Sarina said.
“Let's fight.” Sarina grinned at Soldier Sam with a smug look.
“Yes, of course, Sarina. It's on!” responded Soldier Sam
Sarina and Soldier Sam jumped over the fence and ran onto the playing field at Rams Stadium.
Soldier Sam blasted fire at Sarina so she jumped over the barrage of Fuego and morphed into a rolling ball of steel and ran up to him.
Proceeding to run Soldier Sam over he targeted Sarina like a football and blasted her head with a shot of fire.
“AHHH!” Sarina was surprised and ran right back towards Soldier Sam.
“OK Soldier Sam, you want to fight for real?” Sarina was going to have some fun with Soldier Sam to show him who was the Boss.
Sarina backed up to him dodging his fire blasts. Soldier Sam jumped aside.
Sarina was confused as Soldier Sam froze. Maybe he gave up, I didn't know.” Sarina was asking Rams Mascot for some help understanding the situation.
Sarina could have done away with Solider Sam right then and there, but she wasn’t ready for this game to end.
Soldier Sam’s eyes grew a fiery red and his hands were flaming with fire. He got up and made a HUGE blast of fire!
Sarina was stuck in a fire tornado! Sarina was feeling Fuego and asked for Rams Mascot’s help.
Rams Mascot was ready to do whatever it takes to stop Soldier Sam and end his insubordination. This was not the behavior expected of guests at Rams Stadium.
Rams Mascot smiled at Sarina.
Sarina was shocked at Soldier Sam’s behavior too. shocked about what she had the power to do to him.
Rams Mascot smiled again at Sarina and pointed towards the horizon where that night, the City of Los Angeles was to display a Massive Municipal Masterpiece of a Fireworks Show for the 4th of July Celebration!
Sarina was wondering just what kind of crowd would be lining the Malibu Beaches that night.
Rams Mascot pointed again at the Spot.. There was to be a shocking surprise for Sarina at the center of all the action that night. What could it be, wondered Sarina.
Sarina was ready to go right then and there, but Rams Mascot reminded her about some work duties that needed completion in her Giant Office at Rams Stadium.
Sarina went on her way and then gave a glance at Soldier Sam. “I’m ready to take care of this work cause I am so excited for the July 4th Fireworks Show tonight” Sarina proclaimed.
Sarina had spent quite a bit of time in her office over the past several years and as you might expect, she had often wondered if the other football teams had a Mascot like the Rams do.
If they did exist, Sarina wasn’t sure if she would like them, well with all the football contests she had witnessed at Rams Stadium were pretty intense with competition.
“I wonder what the other Football Games are like, since she had suspected that the Rams players were going to other stadiums every other week during the Season.
Every Sunday, Rams Mascot would check Sarina’s office to clear it of any of the LA fans, like Solider Sam. Much of LA seemed interested in the Rams, but Soldier Sam was clearly a Super Fan.
At the end of the search, Rams Mascot would announce: “There's nothing here Sarina, now go to work!”
At the beginning of most days, after the office door was closed and her computer plugged in, this was when Sarina’s imagination ran wild with speculation about the possibility that other Mascots existed in other Cities.
Certainly on Twitter, there was a lot of talk about football teams in other cities and Sarina’s imagination would be piqued with every Tweet as a validation of her belief.
But an event would soon occur that would convinced Sarina beyond doubt that other Mascots did not live only in her imagination, as Soldier Sam had often told her.
This July 4th date had started like any other. After searching her office,, as usual, with Rams Mascot finding nothing to distract her, Soldier Sam called her about going to the Fireworks Show that night as a date, not as a Rams Super Fan might do.
Whenever Sarina asked Rams Mascot if there were other like him, all she would hear back was what sounded like an evasive response.
Sarina thought this was strange because wouldn’t he be the first to admit it? So, where were these indicators coming from?
Sarina was back listening to Soldier Sam and in time, was able to distinguish some music in the background. This carried on for a while but it stopped abruptly when Soldier Sam said he had a call on the other line.
But when Soldier Sam clicked back on, the background sounds followed the same pattern.
When Soldier Sam noticed the excitement in her voice he asked Sarina about it, she said: “I really do believe there are other Football Mascots in other cities.”
Soldier Sam would put an end to that topic of their conversation, switching the topic back to the 4th of July fireworks that night.
“Not this again Sarina, it’s your overactive imagination. Other Mascots do not exist, even though you may dream it is so.” Soldier Sam would say anything to distract Sarina from her Football Duties. He had certainly proved that over the years.
“Have you actually seen one?” asked Soldier Sam.
“Well.... no, but I’m really starting to suspect the other Mascots do indeed exist,” Sarina answered.
“There is nothing to worry about today, Sarina,” Soldier Sam insisted. Keep your eye on the ball. Today is a Holiday Celebration, America’s Birthday. The Fireworks Show is sure going to be one to remember. You just imagined it all. Now quickly finish up your work or you will be late for the Festivities tonight!”
PART 2
Sarina was starting to buy in to Soldier Sam’s idea for an Exciting 4th of July Party that night.
Sarina decided the loud noise of Music would be too much to pass up and Soldier Sam had promised there would be Bourbon served on the festival grounds as well.
In an attempt to make sure Sarina could stay focused on her important work, the Rams had banned Sarina the chance to listen to music in her office.
Sarina’s excitement about the Fireworks that night overcame the rest of the Tasks she had been assigned and she was so fed up with Rams Mascot for the Day, Sarina quickly ran out of Rams Stadium and hopped in her Truck to begin her investigation of the Fireworks Scene that was becoming more interesting by the minute.
As Sarina suspected, she didn't have to go very far, as Soldier Sam had promised and sounds of music were becoming more audible as she sped down the highway.
The scene in the distance not far away now was illuminated by red white and blue lights as the sun had just set over the Pacific Ocean, a scene Sarina and Soldier Sam had become lucky enough to celebrate every night. The beams shone form what had become close at hand.
Sarina looked around in amazement at the scene now in view after she had passed her Billboard and dialed up Soldier Sam so they could find a suitable meeting place, given the size of the crowd.
“What is this place, Soldier Sam?” It was the music and the prospect of a Beautiful Display of a Fireworks Demonstration that kept her moving forward.
The sounds Sarina heard nearby were increasing in volume and by the time she reached the freeway tunnel exits, the ground shook with deep bass.
Emerging onto the Festival Grounds, Sarina looked around in wonder and soon found the source of the lights she had been promised to witness by Soldier Sam.
They were spotlights, dancing in the night sky. The beams criss-crossed each other, and they drew Sarina attention to the spot she and Soldier Sam had agreed to meet up at.
There was a queue waiting to enter, moving forward slowly. The night was perfect temperature wise, and Sarina was glad she was dressed appropriately.
Sarina was now toward the front of the line and Soldier Sam had just dialed her number.
“Excuse me, where am I?” Sarina asked once she entered the Gate. When nothing happened she shouted louder: “Excuse me!”
When the crowd turned around, Sarina had never been more shocked in her entire life.
Sarina realised the crowd was not at all as she had expected. It was ALL the NFL Mascots from EVERY Team. Sarina just froze for a minute. It was just as she had suspected!!
Picking herself up off the grounds,, Sarina closed her eyes tightly. “I must be crazy, this must be a Dream.”
As you might surmise, it would take a miracle for Sarina to process everything she felt at that moment. Validation, Amazement, Excitement and a Tidal Wave of Surprise.
Just then, Sarina heard her phone ring. It was Soldier Sam again, and Sarina gathered up all of her ability to focus amid the Shock she felt at that moment.
At the front of the line of Mascots was the most familiar. Her own Rams Mascot! All the other Mascots were smiling at Sarina so that made her feel welcome.
“Oh Sarina,, you must be so thirsty. Let's get you something to drink.”Rams Mascot shouted: “Stand aside, we are coming through!” The queue of Mascots were drinking too.
Soldier Sam was waiting at the concession stand for Sarina and greeted her: “Good evening, Sarina, it’s the night of the Fireworks Show. It’s July 4th. Get ready to party, Sarina!!
Soldier Sam knew what the deal was with Sarina and Parties. “I know how much you dislike waiting in line, especially for beer and Festival Food.
Rams Mascot pointed to a list of rules at the concession stand: “To the front of the line goes Sarina AND the football Mascots tonight. Everyone else be prepared to wait!”
Soldier Sam nodded and said: “Yes, I am well aware considering Rams Mascot wrote the rules but , we need you to feel comfortable Partying with all the Mascots tonight.”
“All the Mascots are so friendly. It will be good for the LA Community business and for your Job with the Rams.” Soldier Sam continued.
. Wouldn’t you agree, Sarina?” asked Rams Mascot.
Sarina began walking to the group of Mascots who had scoped out the very best spot to enjoy the Fireworks Show. Soldier Sam was at her side. The moment that the Fireworks Display would start to work their Magic was getting closer and closer by the minute.
Soldier Sam must have understood the look of Shock on Sarina’s face and hurriedly took her straight into the group of Mascots
A smaller contingent of the Mascots approached Sarina and Soldier Sam.
“Let’s Break the Ice Sarina. I will introduce you to some of the Mascots, starting with the ones that share your Super Talent for Flying.”
Sarina’s fellow aviators, Seahawk, Cardinal, Eagle, Falcon, were the first to greet Sarina.
“We are some of the best Mascots in the League. But ask any other of the Mascots ‘Who is the Best and they will say they are, of course”
“My name is Sarina” Sarina was starting to grow more confident, and the Fireworks finally started. The was an Explosion in the Sky and everyone looked upward at the display.
“Well, it's very nice to meet you, Sarina!” the group of Mascots greeted her in unison. Loudly so they could be heard over the Booms of the Fireworks.
Rams Mascot came to Sarina’s rescue when she was at a loss for words “I expect you have many questions. Let me get you a drink to set you up and then you can ask as many as you want.”
Soldier Sam returned carrying two more mugs of Ice Cold Beer. “Here you go Sarina. There is tons of Bourbon on the way so we can use these as chasers.”
Sarina took it gratefully, just taking a moment to let it all sink in. She was so amazed at the scene of Mascots and the Beautiful Explosion of Colors and it was a wonderful moment. Then she started slamming the drink. It was sweet and delicious.
“Ok, Sarina fire away!” Soldier Sam was sure to encourage Sarina..
“What is this place?” Sarina asked.
Soldier Sam jumped in with the answer. “Welcome to The Diamond Guest Section. It’s the very best section to view the fireworks. And there is room for all the Mascots!”
“Everybody’s here and you are too, Soldier Sam!” Sarina responded with delight.
“In your world, you know us as the Ram’s Opponents, but to our fans we are just as important as the Rams Mascot is to the Fans in LA. We prefer the name “Fan Heroes”
Rams Mascot set up the whole busines after seeing how much negative attention we were getting in in the LA Press. “We wanted you to know that we are on Your Side Tonight, Sarina!”
“Don't believe everything you read or see on Twitter about us. We are just as friendly as your friend Rams Mascot” Sarina smiled, took Soldier Sam’s hand and was introduced to all the Mascots.
Meanwhile the Fireworks were getting Louder and Louder and more Colors were bursting into the Sky. There were extremely Special Moments when the only Fireworks were Orange! And that made Sarina feel very special.
The more Sarina and Soldier Sam talked to her new Mascot Friends in the Diamond Fireworks Section, the more Sarina’s view on Mascots changed.
All the Mascots were not as bad as Twitter would have you believe. The Mascots were all Charming and Friendly. And Great Partners to watch the Fireworks with on America’s Birthday!
When July 4th started, the whole concept of other Football Mascots had only been a Dream for Sarina, but Thanks to Soldier Sam and Rams Mascot, all her Fireworks dreams came true that night.
The Fireworks were getting Louder and Louder. The Super Finale was at hand!
At that moment Sarina and Soldier Sam felt as close as could be and all the Mascots approved.
Of course, the Finale was 100% Orange, in Sarina’s Honor.
Soldier Sam and All the Mascots had decided to make Tonight, the Best 4th of July Sarina had ever experienced!
RAMS PLANET LANDING
Sarina was sitting at Soldier Sam’s back, guiding the way. After a short lapse of running on the stars, the ground disappeared beneath their feet. In a spin of some seconds, they were flying in space.
The monstrous in-shore rollers heaved the boat high until Sarina was again enabled to see the white sheets of water scudding up the slanted beach.
"We won't get in very close," said Sarina
There were no hurried words, no plain panic. The duo simply looked at the shore.
"Now, remember to get well clear of the boat when you jump," said Sarina.
Seaward the crest of a roller suddenly fell with a thunderous crash, and the long white comber came roaring down upon the boat.
"Steady now," said Sarina.
Shortly after, a member of the flanking fleet was heavily shelled, but another unit soon came to their rescue. We were still in a precarious position, and the officers soon recognized that step would have to be taken to improve our standing so another appeal was made to some other members of our flank. A section gave supporting fire and we soon made a mad dash for a new route by way of sheer determination from the officers. The counterattack was an unbridled success and the chairman was quite pleased with the progress that had been made in just a few days.
Soldier Sam was silent. He turned his eyes from the shore to the comber and waited. The boat slid up the incline, leaped at the furious top, bounced over it, and swung down the long back of the wave. Some water had been shipped and Sarina bailed it out.
But the next crest crashed also. The tumbling flood of white water caught the boat and whirled it almost perpendicular. Water swarmed in from all sides
The little boat, slammed with this weight of water, reeled deeper into the sea.
"Bail her out, Soldier Sam, Bail her out!" said Sairna.
"All right, Sarina," said Solider Sam.
Word arrived from Oceana headquarters that a portion of our flank was to be temporarily relieved of its role in the cover operation and would make its way into a narrow reserve position along a narrow opening between two of the islands. However, our hopes that they had completed their mission for the time being and could soon be withdrawn was immediately brought into concern when they came under fire just as they had mobilized. The positions of the flank held, but not with nothing to spare and they soon headed back to their previous position
Sarina figured the next one would do them in, for sure. . "Make sure to jump clear of the boat." she shouted.
The wave moved forward, huge, furious, implacable, relentless and unstoppable.
It fairly swallowed the dingey, and almost simultaneously Sarina and Soldier Sam tumbled into the sea. A piece of lifebelt had was in the bottom of the boat, and as Sarina went overboard she held on with everything she had.
Our unit could do no more for that operation but, fortunately, no more action was needed. That night, our compatriots were withdrawn to a position removed from the frontline the Mainland forces had established the day before. Eventually, our adversaries trudged off reluctantly with heavy payloads but evidently not willing to continue the resistance that they had so aggressively mounted. Soon, the officers were all talking at once over the wireless to the chagrin of the chairman. Such was their spirit, that it won out against seemingly insurmountable odds that had been pushed upon them by the Mainland.
Just as Sarina and Soldier Sam dove into their space fighter jet, they heard the countdown “9…8…7…”
Rams Mascot shouted over the Radio “go, go, go!”
Soldier Sam and Sarina put on their seatbelts, Sarina hit the engine go button, and the space jet launched them deep into the space sky.
Sarina and Soldier Sam turned around to look out of the window and watched as the adversary transport ship exploded into a big fiery ball of nothing.
ORANGE VALENTINES #7
“Switch it Up on Tip Hill”
The Flight through Space was finally complete. The Starship bolted down from the sky and landed in New York.
Cupid was there on the Tarmac to greet Sarina and Soldier Sam.
“Sarina and Soldier Sam!” Cupid called out. “Welcome to Syracuse!”
“Thanks Cupid” Sarina replied.
“Isn’t there a Big Orange Basketball Game Tonight?” asked Soldier Sam.
“There for sure is an Orange Game tonight. But first I have a Place to show you guys?” said Cupid.
Cupid was a Legend at Syracuse. It was in Fact one of his favorite places to be. To work his Magic.
Cupid is fiercely loyal to his friends and the values he holds. Cupid can be a staunch traditionalist at times who follows his duty and maintains allegiances even when it’s emotionally difficult for him to do so. He presents a calm, focused demeanor to the world and is a steady force for good.
A group of residents challenged Cupid “Well look what you did to our people, they are all running around in love. What about that? Your reputation is one that you have established over the years.” Cupid responded, “It’s just my job, I always come here ready to boost couples Valentines Day experience.
Let’s get on our way to our Pre-Game Event, Sarina and Soldier Sam” Cupid instructed.
“This is quite a place I have to show you. Cupid added.
“Let’s do a little Preview before we get to the site, Cupid” Sarina suggested.
“Hop in my Ride, you two. I have a couple of questions about your Flight before we get to the Tour Site” Cupid responded.
At one particular Planet approach, Soldier Sam and I were aboard in the mission control room when the Starship starts to go down. The crash would have been a little too dramatic. Finally we got the Starship unstuck from the gravitational pull on it. As we floated towards the planet the force was a little too strong,
Soldier Sam got very upset seeing the vault empty. He thought, “Only I know the password of the vault, so how can anyone open that vault?”
So we called up the crew to find out and their Detective investigated that vault very well.
During the investigation, he found a control lever piece missing so the suspicion first came upon Soldier Sam.
“Forgive me sir responded Soldier Sam. I don’t know how it got here But I haven’t stolen anything.”
Cupid’s Ride was zigging and zagging though Syracuse Traffic.
Here we are at the Mystery Spot for our Tour, Sarina and Soldier Sam” announced Cupid. “I’m sure the two of you are going to have a lot of Questions.
“We’re ready, Cupid” shouted Sarina. “Let’s Check it out!”
Soldier Sam agreed. “Let’s get this party started, Cupid!!”
“What is this place?” asked Sarina.
“This is Tip Hill Neighborhood.” Cupid answered the question.
“How did all the Orange Fans come here to Syracuse? It seems a bit incredible, picking a spot that is so cold and snowy.” asked Soldier Sam..
“All of the Cuse Fans, for things such as football and basketball came here along here because of the Greatness of Orange Mascot, like you would suppose”, Cupid replied.
Tipperary Hill in Syracuse was settled largely by Cuse Fans, and they didn't like the Red sitting atop the Green on the stoplight at Tompkins Street and Milton Avenue and also wanted to turn the Yellow into Orange.
“But what about the other neighborhoods?” asked Sarina. “What does Syracuse do at all of their other traffic lights?”
“They all stayed the same,” Cupid replied. “Sure, local residents could learn about this one stoplight, but imagine the confusion Syracuse would be thrown into if all the traffic signals were switched.”
“Check out what is the latest technology we have developed.” Cupid revealed.
Autonomous cars: Cars with “robot brains” have been central feature of Syracuse for decades. Much effort was put into the designing of vehicles with 'robot-brains' – vehicles that can be set for particular destinations and that will then proceed there without interference by the slow reflexes of a human driver.
Sarina and Soldier Sam were stunned by what Cupid had just said.
Is this just a local thing?” asked Soldier Sam.
“It started off as a local thing here in Tip Hill Neighborhood, for the reasons I just explained.” Replied Cupid. “The cars were programmed for this unusual traffic light, but then the technology spread across Syracuse.”
“In fact, we are now deciding whether to spread our newest automated cars to other parts of the country and eventually the entire world.” Cupid let Sarina and Soldier Sam in on the business.
“That will be great for the Syracuse economy right?” Soldier Sam was pretty sure it would.
“Yes, and we are deciding whether or not to build other types of vehicles this way, like Buses and Trucks and Taxis to meet the needs of the global population.” Explained Cupid.
But what was the driving force behind that Stop Light?” Sarina wanted to direct the conversation back to that subject.
“Well, Sarina Kids threw stones at the light and broke it, prompting a local official to ask that the green be put on top. The city obliged, but the rest of New York ended up changing the light back to red over green to avoid confusing people per state law.”
The stone throwing resumed, and eventually the city changed the colors again. Today, Tipp Hill is home to the nation's only stoplight that has green over red, just one of its unique parts of history that is resident in Syracuse.
What is this neighborhood?” asked Sarina. “Who lives here? Is it an exclusive site set by boundaries?”
“Yes it is Sarina. because only people who are Orange Fans are allowed to live here, along with their families.” Cupid replied.
“Just Orange Fans?” asked Soldier Sam.
Even the most important Fans live here- the ones who have season tickets for basketball and football. There are many Shuttles that run directly to Orange Stadium
“In fact, let’s go up that hill now to see the traffic light. There is also something important for Sarina to do,” Cupid proposed.
What’s this Cupid? Sarina asked as she and Soldier Sam walked over to the Hologram.
Read it and see Sarina. It is a special clue about Valentines Day” Directed Cupid.
“Ok, Cupid. Lets See what it says” Sarina started reading the Hologram.
“I think you are Amazing!”
Special people are very few
Who is special? That would be you
My Valentine’s Day would be so fine
If you would be my Valentine.
“I just can’t believe it!” Sarina exclaimed. On Valentine’s Day. A special message just for me!”
There is just one more thing on Tip Hill I want to show you, Sarina and Soldier Sam,” Cupid relayed his plan.
Coleman's boasts an Orange Door and miniature phone booth and sponsors Orange Beer Day. The menu features may local favorites highlights such as soda bread, and pies and other Orange Staples are among the menu highlights.
The Restaurant used their advanced knowledge to seal off the entrances so only Orange Fans could enter. Otherwise it would get too crowded in there. And Quite Boring” Cupid explained.
“Wow, Cupid, that was quite a Tour!” Sarina exclaimed.
“It sure was” Soldier Sam had a great time too.
“We have some time to burn before the Game. Let’s stop by this Bar” suggested Cupid.
“By the way, Sarina and Soldier Sam,” Cupid remembered something. “You told me about your flight. But I forget to ask, did you two go on any adventures during your Pit Stops?”
I was flying with the Space Ship for quite some time, and Soldier Sam was moving cargo all over the Universe. But we had to go on a couple adventures on the planets along the way.
We would be gone for some time, on then out in Space on our mission for a while where we encountered many obstacles like other Starships, and sometimes we were only delivering cargo to even larger ships, like I mentioned” said Sarina
Now we have arrived in Syracuse and found you! You have sure taken me and Soldier Sam on an adventure today and there is probably more in store for us here,” Sarina predicted.
“I’ve got a special surprise that you will be sure to like, Sarina!” Cupid announced.
Cupid was excited about Sarina’s Valentine too!
“Oh yeah, this is a great bar, Sarina.” Soldier Sam ordered Sarina a drink. There are several good bars in Syracuse, but this is so nicely appointed, I have to rate this as the best.”
Cupid wants to take us on a tour round Orange Stadium Soldier Sam. Look, this Valentine is tickets for the Game tonight. And they are in the front row” Sarina explained.
“Yes, that’s a very lovely Valentine, Cupid; Look Soldier Sam. The tickets are Orange. And they even have our names on them!!” Sarina observed.
The trouble is, at bars like this.. this one is surely one of the best, but at some point we have to leave. Look, It’s almost game time.” Soldier Sam noted.
“One other thing, Sarina and Soldier Sam” Cupid added—you can hang out at this bar after the Game too. They are open really late on Game Days.
“Let’s make sure to come back here after the Game, Soldier Sam. We’ll take another go at this Orange Soda.
“There you go again, Sarina. Always looking for a chance to drink more Orange Soda” Soldier Sam laughed.
CUPID’S FIRST SYRACUSE ORANGE GAME EXPERIENCE
PART 7
Cupid proceeded to seize the totally free Valentine’s Day program becoming handed out. Shopping around, he observed the Orange seats, the Orange act concession stands, and the Orange scoreboard studded with lightbulbs. Cupid was overcome taking in the magnitude from the stadium. Continuing down on his way, Cupid ceased and grabbed some food.
Once entering the stadium, Cupid really could smell the popcorn popping, the hotdogs cooking, and the French fries being deep-fried. Being quite hungry, Sarina and Soldier Sam ordered a large buttery popcorn. The popcorn, was white and yellow in color and smothered with butter that set on Cupid’s taste buds.
.
“Soldier Sam carefully took my empty bottle and head over to hand it over to the trash can” Sarina recalled.
“Then Sarina passed Cupid the next one out of the case and he was too eager to see it and finally Finished it and gave it to Soldier Sam to put it inside another receptacle.
Soldier Sam was really doubtful about the name of the opponent, so he searched it on the web, but no positive result was found. We started our approach to the stadium.
“I'll say!”, Cupid reacted instantaneously. “Fine”, Soldier Sam mumbled heaving a sigh.
“Now we will have to pull our tickets out of our pockets?” asked Soldier Sam.
“Exactly”, Sarina replied.
Sarina and Cupid pulled their tickets out of their pockets while Soldier Sam struggled to pull out his but he did and in no time they were headed towards the gates.
“Relax!”, Cupid said. “The only way we can get out of the parking lot is to relax, for your problems will leave you once you do so. Just calm down and think of a happy, or neutral place in the case of Soldier Sam.
“I’ve got a great idea!” Sarina exclaimed. “Soldier Sam and I should get a photo with Orange Mascot. Then we could prove we were here and have a lasting memory.
“Hey, Cupid,” Soldier Sam wanted to get his attention. “Could you snap a pic of Me and Sarina with Orange Mascot? That would be awesome!”
“Of course, Soldier Sam” Cupid replied. Just find Orange Mascot and I will be over to take the shot of you and Sarina.”
Cupid had been trying to straighten the camera. Now he stopped and stared at Sarina and Soldier Sam for a moment. 'Do you know you're difficult to shoot?' Cupid said, laying down the camera.
As obvious as it seems, many photographers struggle early on with incorporating a subject into their shots that is both strong and interesting. But by striving to have a strong, interesting subject, your image will be more likely to catch the viewer's eye and tell a more engaging story at the same time.
“Hey Sarina, we got that picture with Orange Mascot! All the lighting was great and we were posed perfectly. Isn’t it great we were able to find Orange Mascot and he was so accommodating?”
“Yes, Soldier Sam” Sarina answered. I thought for a moment Cupid was going to lose his mind trying to operation the photo function on my phone. He had never operated anything like that before.”
“The game is about to start Sarina!” Soldier Sam exclaimed. Why don’t you give me a quick rundown of the season so far?
“I know you have been following it closely and I really don’t have a clue about what the Orange have faced so far this year, Soldier Sam continued. “How are they doing?”
“Sure Soldier Sam,” Sarina was glad to show off her knowledge of Cuse Hoops. “There have been a lot of developments so far this year.
Orange Stadium had been jumping off all year with Cuse Fans always packing the venue to support the Orange year with fans sitting courtside, and all the seats, even the nose bleed cheap tickets.
It was a beautiful day in Syracuse. Around 20 degrees. Nice breeze. Puffy clouds. There were Syracuse basketball fans parked in lots outside.. The Orange are still scoring, it just comes from different areas now.
“We’ve kind of figured out the ability, got the ability to go in the lane as well and make plays. “We just have to finish in there.”
We got three premier really good shooters. Great shooters. We thought we were going to get our looks but things change.”
'What say we knock off and finish that bourbon,' Soldier Sam suggested. 'This game has already made me thirsty.'
'What do you expect me to do-joke around with you?' Sarina asked.
'No--that's old stuff. But I thought we could sit around and have a drink.'
'Perhaps later,' Sarina said, and then, “Is watching a Cuse game all so tough for you? Am I so difficult?”
Listen, if you tried all the doors you'd find a lot of them locked and don't you forget it.'
Sarina stepped back and looked at him. 'Locked? I’ll get you a drink.'
CUSE GAME ACTION
A capacity crowd is expected for the Orange Hoops Contest between my team and their opponent who we are playing. The competition is fierce and bragging rights are at stake.
I arrived to the stadium well before the matchup. I enter the stadium through a turnstile and there is time to have some Orange Soda and Nachos and Cotton Candy, which of course only comes in the Orange variety, before taking to my seat.
Over the game, the feeling of just being present in the Dome felt like a miracle to me and ran throughout the entire experience that was beyond everything I thought it would be like.
Cuse showed fight this game, and demonstrated for all the world to see just how amazing of a place Syracuse is. Just the fact that there were 3 pointers and dunks and steals and rebounds that will forever live in scorebooks and game tape that I was witnessing in person was an unforgettable experience.
My Orange Spirit began to get the best of me and all the Cuse supporters.
The stadium filled up with excitement quickly as the game started and the excitement just kept on building as the game went on. I am truly thankful I got to witness Orange Hoops Magic Live in Person. What a fantastic experience.
RAMS STADIUM
PART 1
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas at Rams Stadium
Santa’s visit to Rams Stadium on Christmas Eve raised such a drama of errors Sarina is sorry she didn't keep on working in preparation for the Rams Game on Christmas. Maybe Sarina will wish Santa never showed up!!
Santa caused Rams Mascot to throw a Football through a window of Rams Press Box and ended up with Soldier Sam getting more than he bargained for too.
You might think Sarina probably shouldn’t have paid any attention to the break in.
The break in happened right when it started to get dark outside since Santa had Promised Rams Stadium would be his first stop before traveling around the entire World.
There was a mini-explosion at Rams Stadium Gate of Entrance, clearly designed by the Reindeer to gain access. Try as they might, they just couldn’t find a way to get in through the Roof of Rams Stadium.
Sarina was working in the Press Box, Soldier Sam was hitting the concession stands and Rams Mascot.. well no one knew where Rams Mascot was at the time.
Sarina had just stepped out of the Press Box, Notebook in one hand and Bottle of Bourbon in the other when she heard the mini-detonation at the Gates.
It was Santa’s Grand Entrance into Rams Stadium and he was determined to locate Sarina’s Stocking so he could be on his way to make all of his other deliveries that night.
Santa was walking rapidly around the Ticket Counter and the lights of Rams Stadium illuminated the field. Sarina noticed the lights turn on as soon as Dusk turned to Dark in Los Angeles.
Sarina could see the field from her perch in the Press Box, but she couldn’t see Santa.
Once the noise had stopped, Sarina at first figured it was just Rams Mascot or Soldier Sam.
Soldier Sam had just arrived and was excited for the Football Game the next day, Christmas Day.
Sarina suspected next that it was a burglar. It did not enter into Sarina’s conclusions until later.
Sarina always half suspected that something unexpected would happen at Rams Stadium.
Unexpected Stuff happened all the time in Los Angeles, and with the fans beginning to camp in the Parking Lot to get ready for the Game the next day, well anything could happen.
After the Noise of Santa’s activity had gone on for several minutes, Sarina tiptoed to Rams Mascots location. Rams Mascot had joined Soldier Sam at the concession stand for some Christmas Eve Beverages. Well they didn’t really need the tap for that, they each carried a Bottle of Bourbon in their hands.
"Psst!" Sarina was trying to get Soldier Sam’s attention on the Radios they always carried with them, for Rams Stadium was so vast, sometimes Soldier Sam and Rams Mascot got lost.
"There's something downstairs!" Sarina announced. Soldier Sam got up from his spot and started to try to figure out where Sarina was, and what she had heard.
Soldier Sam and Rams Mascot listened together. There was no sound. The steps had ceased. Rams Mascot looked at Solider Sam with some alarm: Sarina was insistent there was a burglar at Rams Stadium that Christmas Eve Night.
"There's something down there!" Sarina persisted. Instantly the steps began again, circled the playing field and started up the seating area into the Main Concourse.
The Stadium Lights still shone bright, but Sarina saw nothing coming, she only heard Steps.
Rams Mascot rushed up to the Press Box, opened the door quicky and joined Sarina. He slammed shut the door and Locked it, to protect Sarina as an immediate instinct.
After a long few minutes, Sarina slowly opened it again to listen. But Santa made no sound.
The slamming of the Press Box doors had alerted Soldier Sam where Sarina was and she peered out of the room. "What on earth are you doing here, Soldier Sam?" Sarina was surprised. “Aren’t you still eating?”
"What was the noise at the gates and all that running around downstairs?" asked Soldier Sam. So Soldier Sam had heard the steps, too! Sarina just looked at him in surprise.
"Burglars!" Sarina shouted, intuitively. Rams Mascot tried to quiet her down by handing her another Bottle of Bourbon.
"I'll stay with Sarina," Rams Mascot informed Soldier Sam. "She's all excited."
Soldier Sam agreed and started off on Patrol. How could any of them expect the raucous was Santa?
Some time passed. Then Soldier Sam came back to the Press Box, walked in and reported to Rams Mascot and Sarina
"No sign of nuthin'," said Soldier Sam.
In the small silence that followed.. the silence was broken by a knock at the door.
Sarina must have realised at once that it was Santa.
Santa took a look at Sarina for a long moment.
“I… I work here at Rams Stadium” responded Sarina.
"What’s the matter with that guy?” Santa asked, looking at Soldier Sam. “Does he work here too?”
"I'm listening," said Santa, surveying the Press Box and reached into his Bag.
Sarina answered for Soldier Sam. “Soldier Sam is with me. He is excited about the Rams Game tomorrow. He got here early so he could get the best seats for the Game.”
Santa took a seat next to the Fireplace, one of the few in Los Angeles. Everyone else in LA had those artificial Fireplaces, since it never got cold in LA. There aren’t even chimneys in California.
Santa watched as Sarina got out a bottle of Bourbon and handed it to Santa.
After a few drinks, Santa’s eyes got brighter, and he began to talk, the little circle regarding with eager interest this visitor from distant parts,
Santa squared his broad shoulders in the chair and spoke of wild scenes to come that night. “I don’t have time to sit around here all night; I’ll just give Rams Mascot his gift and be on my way.
"What was that that you started telling me the other day about a Super Bowl Ring or something, Santa?" asked Rams Mascot.
"Nothing." said Santa, “nothing worth hearing."
"A Super Bowl Ring?" asked Sarina curiously “Rams Mascot has not won a Super Bowl or anything like that..
"Well, it's just a bit of what you might call magic, perhaps." said Santa off-handedly.
Sarina leaned forward eagerly. Santa automatically took in the remainder of his Bourbon Bottle and then set it down again.
Soldier Sam promptly gave him another one hoping Santa would tell them about this Super Bowl Ring..
"To look at," said Santa, fumbling in his Bag "it's just what you imagine it to be, Sarina." Here, it’s for Rams Mascot but you can try it on.
Sarina put on the Super Bowl Ring and examined it with interest.
"And what is there special about it?" inquired Soldier Sam.
As Sarina placed it on the table he took it, and having examined it, placed it upon the table.
It’s Magic because there are three wishes on it, each by someone different. explained Santa. The first two wishes are made by the friends of whoever’s ring it is.
"Well, why don't you have three, Santa?" asked Soldier Sam cleverly.
"And did you really have the three wishes granted?" asked Sarina.
"I did," said Santa, as he lifted up what remained of his Bourbon bottle. I don’t really have time to explain. Of course I have to make deliveries to many homes tonight.as you know, an’ Times Tickin’.”
Santa’s tone was such that a hush fell upon the Trio..
"If you've had your three wishes it's no good to you now then Santa," said Rams Mascot to break the silence. "What do you keep it for?"
Santa shrugged his shoulders and replied. "Fancy I suppose," he said slowly." I did have some idea of selling it, but I don't think I will. It has caused me enough mischief already.
"If you could have another three wishes," said Sarina, eyeing Santa closely," would you have them?"
"I don't know," said Santa. "I don't know."
"So If you don't want it Santa," said Rams Mascot, "Are you really giving it to me? Because I still believe in Magic, just take a look at these two." Rams Mascot motioned to Sarina and Soldier Sam. “It’s a miracle she puts up with his nonsense”
“Rams Mascot reached for the Super Bowl Ring on the table and examined his Christmas Present closely. "How do you do it?" he inquired.
"Soldier Sam gets the first wish, then Sarina, followed by Rams Mascot. Hold it up in your left hand, and wish aloud," said Santa "But I warn you of the consequences."
"Sounds like a challenge”, said Sarina, as she rose up from her chair by the Fire and grabbed the Super Bowl Ring.
Santa turned for the door with a twinkle in his eyes, as Santa is known to do.
“There is however a condition, said Santa. “You have to wait until Christmas Day to make your Wish. The Wish has to be made at the Rams Game tomorrow.”
“All three of us are going to the Rams Game tomorrow”, Sarina declared. “As you say, we will make our wishes then.”
"If you must wish," Santa advised, "Wish for something sensible."
PART 2
It was Christmas Day at Rams Stadium. The Game was about to start.
Rams Mascot was on the field while Sarina and Soldier Sam took their seats at the 50 yard line.
“It must be Christmas Day, Sarina said. Rams Stadium had been decorated for weeks. Holiday music had been playing and everybody was talking about Christmas.
Sarina knew was not supposed to be quite so excited. She was the Team Reporter after all. But every chance Sarina got, she read every tag on every Christmas package, guessing at the contents within.
Sarina had examined each gift so often that she could tell which present went to which person without even looking at the tags.
In the business of the Big Game, Santa’s gift was momentarily placed aside, but not forgotten,
Soldier Sam looked at the Scoreboard above them in an unbelievable sight, another installment of unprecedent Rams Stadium entertainment.
Once the Game got underway, Soldier Sam was starting to think about Christmas, not the action on the field.
"If the tale about the Super Bowl Ring is true, then we might do best to start considering what wishes we want to make,” suggested Sarina.
“Right.” replied Soldier Sam. “If what Santa was telling us is true, then we have to make our wishes soon. There is an expiration date. We have to make our wishes by the time the Football Game is over.
Likely wishes began to be discussed.
“Why, we're going to be rich, and famous, and happy” said Sarina “Soldier Sam you might do well in wishing to be an Emperor with your wish, then all your objectives will surely be met in turn.”
Soldier Sam took the Super Bowl Ring from his pocket and eyed it dubiously. "I don't know what to wish for, and that's a fact," Soldier Sam said slowly. It seems to me I've got everything I want. It’s Christmas and we are together. "
Solder Sam had learned that anything worth achieving is worth working for, and that wishing for something to happen is different from working toward making it happen. More importantly,
Soldier Sam learned that in order to get an order of Nachos you need direction, discipline, and perseverance.
"I might just wish for Rams Mascot to hit the concession stand and bring me a bottle of Bourbon and some Nachos," said Soldier Sam distinctly. “With extra sauce” he added.
Soldier Sam often times wondered, “Who made the first Nachos? And why did they make it the way they did? Is there a deeper meaning behind a simple plate of Nachos”?
A fine flashing of the Scoreboard greeted his words, interrupted by a thunderous response from the crowded seats. The Rams had just gotten their first First Down of the game.
"Well, I don't see any Bourbon or Nachos," said Sarina, as she picked it up, "and I bet I never will.."
Sarina and Soldier Sam sat back down in their seats and Sarina considered Soldier Sam’s wish, while the Band played on in front of them. Now the Rams were on Defense. They didn’t even get a field goal on the last possession, much less a Touchdown. Sarina was disappointed.
“I expect you will get your Bourbon and Nachos for the second half, Soldier Sam” Sarina predicted. “Rams Mascot is done with his duties when Halftime is over. He should be on his way momentarily.”
In the brightness of the wintry sun, halftime was almost over. The Rams held a small lead and the second half was poised to be a close one, with each team having a lot to play for. With the regular season winding down, both teams were in the running to make the Playoffs.
Christmas is for love. It is for joy, for giving and sharing, for laughter, for reuniting with family and friends, for tinsel and brightly covered packages. But, mostly, Christmas is about Rams Football. Solider Sam had not believed this until a Football Reporter gave him wondrous gift Christmas.
"I suppose Santa was wrong," said Sarina. "The idea of our listening to such nonsense! How could wishes be granted in these days?
And if they could, shouldn’t your Nachos be here by now?"
But the minutes slowly passed during the second half, and expectations gave way to resignation - the hopeless resignation of being without Nachos and Bourbon, sometimes called a 5 alarm crisis.
The Game was getting so exciting, sometimes Sarina and Soldier Sam hardly exchanged a word, of course they would have plenty of time to talk about Christmas during dinner after the game.
The sounds of the crowd were getting louder and the excitement was building as the 4th Quarter approached, with the contest knotted in a low scoring game.
Suddenly Sarina considered the moment.
"THE SUPER BOWL RING!" Sarina reminded Soldier Sam... "THE SUPER BOWL RING!!”
Soldier Sam was reminded of that as well. They both had gotten so wrapped up in the Game they had forgotten about their mission.
Sarina started up, "Where? Where is it at?”
Soldier Sam always forgot to do simple jobs and other important jobs he was asked to do. Every time he is asked to do something and then asked about the results, he has an answer, “I forgot.”
If he was sent to the Market, he would forget what Sarina had sent him there to do. The reason for not doing a specific job remains the same. You guessed it right – “I forgot.”
Sarina reached over in Soldier Sam’s vicinity. "I want it," she declared. "You've not lost it, have you?"
"It's still in my pocket," Solder Sam replied, marveling. "Why Is now the right time?"
"I only just thought of it," Sarina said excitedly. "Why didn't I think of it before? Why didn't you think of it?"
"Think of what?" Soldier Sam questioned.
"The other two wishes," Sarina replied rapidly. "We've only had one."
"Was not that enough?” asked Soldier Sam.
"No," Sarina stated with determination. "We'll have one more. Reach into your pocket and get it quickly, I want to make my wish!."
"Our first wish will be granted," said Sarina with confidence "I just got a text from Rams Mascot, he is almost next in line at the Concession Stand. Why not the second?"
"Here, I got it. Make your wish, Sarina!" responded Soldier Sam. He was now starting to display excitement, for that, if not for the Football Game.
“I wish for the Rams to get the win today, and punch their ticket to the Playoffs” announced Sarina.
After the wish, neither Sarina or Soldier Sam spoke, but kept looking at the clock displayed on the Scoreboard. Time was ticking. and the Rams were putting together their 2-Minute Drill, already within field goal range.. But wait, there was just a well-executed completion to bring the Rams into the Red Zone.
The clock was winding down, and then, as if on Cue, Rams Mascot appeared with the Nachos!
"WHAT’S THAT?" exclaimed Soldier Sam, starting up. The bottle of Bourbon too. It’s as if you planned perfect timing, Rams Mascot.
Sarina and I had just finished the one we are working on now!. We won’t even have to take a break from the drinking as we push through the crowds to the Exit.”.
"It’s Nachos, Soldier Sam" said Rams Mascot triumphantly. And I arrived just in time to make my wish. I already know what it is going to be.”
“What have you decided to wish for, Rams Mascot? Anything surprising or dramatic?” Sarina was filled with a sense of suspense.
Soldier Sam’s wish came true, and after the Rams just scored that Touchdown, there is just the kickoff and the other team only has time for a couple of plays!”
Sarina and Soldier Sam stood up in double anticipation. For the Rams W and for Rams Mascot to make his wish.
Rams Mascot announced..”
“Sarina and Soldier Sam, I wish you both Happiness during the good times, strength in the face of challenge, and that you will always have each other to depend on.” Rams Mascot wished.
The activity on the field had ceased suddenly, although the echoes of it were still in Rams Stadium. Soldier Sam and Sarina headed for the Exits..
The Rams got the Win on Christmas Day!!. Our team is Playoff-Bound!! And Rams Mascot made it all possible!!