Los Angeles Inspiration

Upcoming Appearance - Bob Gibson & Denny McLain

2012-01-26T12:58:00.000-08:00

Meet Bob Gibson & Denny McLain!

April 21, 2012

Time: TBA

Bob Gibson

Small: $69

Medium: $79

Large: $99

Inscriptions: $25

Denny McLain

Small: $19

Medium: $29

Large: $39

Inscriptions: $15

Frank & Son

19649 E. San Jose Ave.

City of Industry, CA 91748

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Upcoming Appearance - Paul Lo Duca

2012-01-26T12:57:00.000-08:00

Meet Paul Lo Duca!

Dodgers All-Star Catcher

April 21, 2012

Time: TBA

balls and small flats up to and including 11x14: $25.

large flats, minis, caps & equipment: $30.

bats, jerseys & artwork: $35.

inscriptions: $10.

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Upcoming Appearance - Ric Flair

2012-01-26T12:56:00.000-08:00

Meet Ric Flair!

March 3, 2012

1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Any item: $99

Autos w/ inscription $139

VIP Package: $179 (includes Auto w/ inscription and photo op) *Only 50*

Frank & Son

19649 E. San Jose Ave.

City of Industry, CA 91748

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Upcoming Appearance - Jake 'The Snake' Roberts

2012-01-25T12:21:00.000-08:00

Meet Jake "The Snake" Roberts!

February 11th, 2012

Time: TBA

$20 - Autograph - any item

$20 - Photo Op - your camera

$35 - one autograph & one photo op (your camera)

Frank & Son

19649 E. San Jose Ave.

City of Industry, CA 91748

Photo Courtesy of WWE

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Upcoming Appearance - Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

2012-01-25T12:19:00.000-08:00

Meet Kareem Abdul-Jabbar!

February 17, 2012

7:00 pm

All Saints Church

132 N. Euclid

Pasadena, Ca 91101

This is a ticketed event. He will only be signing his book 'What Color is my World?' and no memorabilia.

Must purchase book through Vroman's bookstore in order to get a ticket.

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Super Bowl XLVI Contest

2012-01-24T14:38:00.000-08:00

Super Bowl XLVI has been set. The New York Giants will take on the New England Patriots on February 5th, 2012.

I would like to thank our friends over at Panini America for providing us with the prizes for this contest. There will be two winners for this contest.

Contest Rules:

1) You must be a follower of this blog or like LA Inspiration on Facebook or Twitter. If you aren’t a follower of Los Angeles Inspiration, click on the “Join This Site” button in the sidebar. You need to use your Google account to follow. Your account should show up on my “Followers” list.

2) You must "Like" Panini America on Facebook. They are generous enough to donate a great prize for this contest.

3) Fill out the form below, answer each question and leave your name/e-mail so I can contact you if there are any problems or to notify the winner.

4) Only one account per person, if I catch anyone with more than one account then I will disqualify you from this contest and any future contest I have.

Prizes:

There are two prize packages. The first place winner will decide which prize package they want, while the remaining prize package will go to the 2nd place winner.

Package #1
8x10 Steve Smith Autograph Photo
2011 Absolute Memorabilia Tyrod Taylor Autograph #/299
2011 Timeless Treasures Gameday Souvenirs Ray Rice #/250
2011 Timeless Treasures Nate Washington #/499

Package #2
8x10 John David Booty Autograph Photo
2011 Timeless Treasures Rookie Signatures Titus Young #/265
2011 Timeless Treasures Rookie Recruits Blaine Gabbert #/250
2011 Timeless Treasures Peyton Hillis #/499

Complete the Form to Enter:
If you cannot see the form below: Click here and complete it before February 5th at 3:30 PM PST.

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2012 Topps Baseball Gold Rush

2012-01-24T12:21:00.000-08:00

I don't buy that many hobby packs, but for those that like to go crazy, here's your chance to get some nice Gold. If you send in 50 hobby wrappers of 2012 Topps Baseball Series 1 to Topps before the February 29th deadline, you will receive a 5-card pack of exclusive Gold Rush cards.

They have included autograph cards including this Sandy Koufx!

From the Topps Blog:

The over-riding theme in 2012 Topps Baseball is “GOLD” with The Golden Giveaway, Golden Moments inserts, real Gold cards and more! And Topps is offering collectors a special wrapper redemption to celebrate.

Collectors sending in 50 HOBBY wrappers (or 14 HTA Jumbo wrappers) of 2012 Topps Baseball will receive a 5-card cello pack of exclusive GOLD RUSH cards.

There are 50 cards to collect in all. In addition, bonus autographed cards have been randomly inserted into packs and feature the likes of Willie Mays, Adrian Gonzalez, Sandy Koufax, Nelson Cruz, Albert Pujols, Albert Belle and Dennis Eckersley…just to name a few.

The exclusive wrapper redemption program will be available only for the month of February. Packaged wrappers sent to Topps must be post marked no later than February 29th, 2012…so start ripping packs and send those wrappers in!

Wrapper should be sent to:
Gold Rush
PO Box 2008
Duryea, PA 18642

*Collectors are encouraged to group wrappers and send 1 package. Topps will fulfill all wrappers submitted until supplies last.

The release of 2012 Topps Baseball Series 1 is expected to be February 1st. Good Luck!

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2012 Topps Baseball Series 1 - Albert Pujols In His Angels Uniform

2012-01-23T15:03:00.000-08:00

Earlier today, Topps released images of the first Albert Pujols and Jose Reyes base cards sporting their new team. The release date for 2012 Topps Baseball Series 1 is expected to be on February 1st.

I'm not really a fan of 'fake' cards of players in their new uniform before they've even played a game. Why not wait until Series 2 is released to start adding the players with their new team?

They do a great job making the card realistic. If you notice, they even used a Kansas City Royal base in the background to show that he's playing in an American League ballpark. The Cardinals played the Royals during 2011 Interleague.

Jose Reyes in the new Marlins uniform:

Both cards will be short prints.

Want to see more? View the 2012 Topps Baseball Series 1 Gallery

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Super Bowl XLVI: New England Patriots vs. New York Giants

2012-01-23T11:02:00.000-08:00

The stage is set for Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis on February 5th, 2012

New England Patriots vs. New York Giants

I usually hate it when two east coast teams play each other in big games but it's the freakin' Super Bowl.

-----

The New England Patriots defeated the Baltimore Ravens 23-20 and will represent the AFC in the Super Bowl.

Since the beginning of the playoffs, the Patriots were my pick to win it all.

This whole season was dedicated to Myra Kraft who passed away last summer after battling cancer. They always found ways to finish games even when they were down double digits in the first half. She's truly their guardian angel.

Tom Brady didn't throw for a touchdown, but still lead the Patriots to victory with a 4th & goal QB sneak to put the Patriots ahead in the fourth quarter. Sterling Moore saved the season, when he knocked the ball out of Lee Evans hands.

Joe Flacco's inability to get into the redzone more than once really hurt the Ravens. They had four different opportunities to score a touchdown and ended up with only one. Billy Cundiff didn't help when he kicked a 32 yard field goal attempt wide left.

-----

The New York Giants defeated the San Francisco 49ers 20-17 in overtime and will represent the NFC in the Super Bowl.

Since the Patriots won earlier in the day, it didn't really matter who represented the NFC. I thought the Patriots were the best team out of the four remaining, but I was hoping to see a rematch of Super Bowl XLII between the Patriots and Giants. Before the game started, FOX showed an interview with Alex Smith who was wearing a San Francisco Giants hat. I hate the SF Giants, so that was another reason I didn't want the 49ers to win.

Vernon Davis is the reason why the 49ers got past the New Orleans Saints. He had two amazing plays in the final minute of the game last week. Alex Smith continued to throw the ball at Vernon Davis and they hooked up for two more touchdowns against the Giants. The 49ers defense put pressure on Eli Manning the entire game.

Special teams decided both championship games. Instead of a kicker, it was Kyle Williams, the punt returner who didn't get out of the way of a punt that he had no business trying pick up and he didn't hold onto the ball in overtime. The Giants cashed in on the overtime turnover with an easy field goal (don't tell Billy Cundiff that) to win the game.

Before the season started, Eli Manning considered himself one of the elite quarterbacks in the game today. This whole season, I made fun of him and it continues into the playoffs. He's an okay quarterback in my opinion. I wouldn't put him up there with Tom Brady, Drew Brees and Peyton Manning.

But ESPN needs to calm down with all this Eli Manning won this game crap. He had about five different opportunities to lead his team down the field to take the lead. The Giants punted every single time, except for when Kyle Williams fumbled two punts to give the Giants amazing field position. I will give Eli credit for the touchdown pass he threw to Manningham. He threw the ball 58 times, and they only scored 20 points. The entire team should be getting the credit for this win, not Eli Manning.

-----

These teams played each other in week 9 of the regular season. The Giants won the game 24-20 in the final seconds.

I'm picking the Patriots to win the rematch and Tom Brady as the MVP. Who do you like in Super Bowl XVI?

Picture credit: ESPN

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Mailday - James Loney Autograph

2012-01-23T10:43:00.000-08:00

2007 Ultimate Collection America's Pastime James Loney Autograph

It's my fourth James Loney autograph card. The card isn't numbered but the autograph is on-card! Autograph cards are way better when it's not a sticker. You know the player held the card that they signed instead of them just signing a bunch of stickers and the card companies sticking them onto the cards.

-----

I'm a fan of James Loney's defense but not his offense. He just doesn't have the power that other first baseman around the league have. It sounds like he's been working hard this off-season, so I can't wait to see what he's been working on when the season starts.

The Angels just signed the greatest player, in my generation, Albert Pujols to a 10-year deal. I want the Dodgers to sign or trade for a player that can hit more than 25 home runs and play first base. Obviously I don't want an ugly contract like the Angels gave to Albert.

Prince Fielder?

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Panini America's West Coast Trip Continues With Kobe Bryant

2012-01-22T19:25:00.000-08:00

Last week, Panini America announced that they are currently on a West Coast road trip trying to obtain autographs from some of the best basketball players in the NBA. Brian Bayne from Panini was able to get Blake Griffin & Eric Bledsoe on the same day.

The tougher task was trying to find time for an autograph session with Kobe Bryant. Brian didn't disappoint Panini America fans and here's a look at the autograph session for 2011 Preferred Basketball.

Panini America also give us a look at the jersey pieces they use before they insert them into the cards.

Looks like there will be no Kobe Bryant & Blake Griffin Redemption Cards in 2011 Preferred Basketball. The Silhouette rainbows look awesome. Panini America has done a great job so far.

For more information, visit Panini America's Blog.

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6th Anniversary of Kobe's Historic 81 Point Game

2012-01-22T12:31:00.000-08:00

Hard to believe it's been six years already. Every Laker fan remembers Kobe historic 81 point game against the Toronto Raptors.

The Lakers were just an average team that year. Chris Mihm, Kwame Brown, Smush Parker, and Lamar Odom were all on the team. No wonder Kobe averaged 35.4 points a game that season.

Lakers.com has a nice photo gallery of the 81 point game. Click here to view it.

Or you can re-watch all 81 points in three minutes:

Photo credit: Lakers

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Upcoming Appearance - Jason "Mayhem" Miller

2012-01-21T23:56:00.000-08:00

Meet Jason "Mayhem" Miller

UFC Fighter & former host of Bully Beatdown

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28

XYIENCE BOOTH #306

AUTOGRAPH SIGNING 12:00-3:00 p.m.

You must purchase a ticket to enter the Fitness Expo. Buy Tickets Here

SATURDAY: $20

SUNDAY: $20

WEEKEND PACKAGE: SATURDAY & SUNDAY: $30

Los Angeles Convention Center

1201 South Figueroa Street

Los Angeles, CA 90015

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Upcoming Appearance - Marshall Faulk

2012-01-21T23:48:00.000-08:00

Meet Marshall Faulk!

7 time Pro Bowl Selection, Pro Bowl MVP 1994, NFL MVP 2000, Super Bowl Champion - Rams 2000, HOF 2011

March 17, 2012

1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

flat autograph: $89.

mini-helmet / football autograph: $99.

helmet / jersey autograph: $129.

inscriptions: $35.

Frank & Son

19649 San Jose Ave.

City of Industry, CA 91748

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Upcoming Appearance - Mike Tyson

2012-01-21T23:47:00.000-08:00

Meet Mike Tyson

Former Undisputed Heavyweight Champion

Saturday January 28, 2012

Gallery of Legends Booth

Tyson is scheduled to appear at 11:30 am

You must purchase a ticket to enter the Fitness Expo. Buy Tickets Here

SATURDAY: $20

SUNDAY: $20

WEEKEND PACKAGE: SATURDAY & SUNDAY: $30

Los Angeles Convention Center

1201 South Figueroa Street

Los Angeles, CA 90015

Autographs & Photo Ops Priced as follows:

Photo Op (our photographer) $129.00

8 x 10 Signature $139.00 (includes photo)

16 x 20 Signature $199.00 (includes photo)

Glove $235.00 (includes glove)

Trunks or Mini Belt $259.00 (includes Trunks or Belt)

Campionship Belt $499 (includes Belt)

Inscription (ie: HOF 2011 of 3 words or less) $59.00

VIP Package $425.00 (A $500 + Value) includes

Photo Op, Signed 8x10 & Signed Glove

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Eddie Guardado's Stars & Strikes Bowling Tournament

2012-01-19T16:20:00.000-08:00

January 29, 2012

5:00 PM-8:30 PM

Bowlmor Lanes @ The District

2405 Park Avenue

Tustin, CA 92782

For the full information: Click Here or see the flyer at the bottom of this post.

There are sponsorship opportunities. You can call 818.705.1625 or email laura@act-today.org

Spectator pass for $150:

One (1) spectator credential - no bowling

Light food and non-alcoholic beverages

Confirmed Celebrities:

"Everyday Eddie" Guardado, 2-Time All-Star Pitcher

Torii Hunter, LA Angels of Anaheim 4-Time All-Star
Michael Young, Texas Rangers 6-Time All-Star
Adrian Beltre, Texas Rangers 2-Time All-Star
Derek Holland, Texas Rangers
Vernon Wells, LA Angels of Anaheim / 3-Time All-Star
Garret Anderson, LA Angels of Anaheim 3-Time All-Star
J.J.Putz, Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star Pitcher
LaTroy Hawkins, Milwaukee Brewers
Rex Hudler, Former MLB Player and Radio Personality
Troy Percival, 4-Time All Star
Jamie Moyer, All-Star Pitcher
Carlos Fisher, Cincinnati Reds
Brad Thompson, St. Louis Cardinals
Adam Melhuse, Former MLB Player
Aaron Sele, 2-Time All-Star Pitcher
Chad Cordero, All-Star Pitcher
Jacque Jones, Former MLB Player
Gary Pettis, Texas Ranger Coach and Former MLB Player
Lisa Foxx, On-Air Radio Personality 104.3 MYFM
Bret Saberhagen, 3-Time All Star Pitcher
Todd Marchant, Former NHL Player
Eric Chavez, New York Yankess Infielder
Denny Hocking, Former MLB Player
Sasha Pieterse, Actress – Pretty Little Liars
Musetta Vander, Actress - best known for her roles in science fiction and fantasy films
Nick Roux, Actor – Wizards of Waverly Place, Lemonade Mouth
Darwin Barney, Chicago Cubs
Ty Wright, Chicago Cubs
Howie Kendrick, LA Angels of Anaheim
Chanel Ryan, Model, Actress, "Small Apartments"
and more to come...

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Upcoming Appearance - Jonathan Bernier & Dustin Penner

2012-01-19T10:41:00.000-08:00

Meet LA Kings Jonathan Bernier and Dustin Penner

They will be signing free autographs

January 20, 2012

2:00 PM to 3:00PM.

Staples

14401 Hindry Avenue

Hawthorne, CA 90250

(310) 297-0815

Full information here: Kings website

Thanks to Ernest (Blue Heaven) for the tip.

Picture credit: NHL

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Mailday - 2011 Panini Gridiron Gear Tony Gonzalez Patch

2012-01-19T00:26:00.000-08:00

My first patch of 2012 is Tony Gonzalez. He's a future Hall of Famer who currently plays for the Atlanta Falcons.

It's a 2011 Panini Gridiron Gear Tony Gonzalez Prime 3-color Patch. The stitching is coming off, which you can see in the image above. The card is numbered out of 50 and it's my second Gonzalez patch.

I've followed his career since his days in Kansas City. He holds the record for most career touchdowns (95) and reception yards (13,339) for a tight end. He also holds the record for most catches in a season for a tight end with 102.

He was born in Torrance, California which happens to be a city I live near by. He lives in Southern California during the off-season and I've heard that he signs through the mail. I plan on sending him an 8x10 to get autographed this off-season and hopefully I can add it to my collection.

Tony was traded to my favorite team, Atlanta Falcons, on my birthday in 2010. My favorite tight end would now be playing on my favorite team.

He signed a one-year deal with the Falcons for the 2012 season. I'm hoping he gets to 100 career touchdowns before he decided to hang it up as the greatest tight end in the history of the game.

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Galaxy Re-Sign David Beckham to two-year deal

2012-01-18T16:05:00.000-08:00

David Beckham will be staying in Los Angeles for two more years. The Galaxy are looking like the team to beat again for the MLS Cup this year

From the Galaxy website:

CARSON, Calif. (Wednesday, January 18, 2012) – The LA Galaxy announced today that the club has re-signed midfielder David Beckham to a two-year contract, extending his stay with the MLS Cup Champions. Beckham, who had the best season of his five-year MLS career in 2011, helped lead the Galaxy to their first MLS Cup title since 2005.

Since joining the club as the first Designated Player in MLS History, the Galaxy have reached MLS Cup twice and won the Supporters’ Shield twice while also seeing the club reach new heights in terms of international recognition and popularity.

"This was an important decision for me,” Galaxy midfielder David Beckham said. “I had many offers from clubs from around the world, however, I'm still passionate about playing in America and winning trophies with the Galaxy.”

"I've seen first hand how popular soccer is now in the States and I'm as committed as ever to growing the game here," he added. "My family and I are incredibly happy and settled in America and we look forward to spending many more years here."

In five years with the Galaxy, Beckham was twice named to the MLS All-Star Team and finished the 2011 season with a career-best 15 assists, earning him a spot on the MLS Best XI. Beckham’s individual success helped translate to team success last season as the club repeated as Supporters’ Shield winners, finishing the season with a 19-5-10 record for 67 points, which were the second most in League history. That form continued into the postseason where the Galaxy won all four of their postseason games, culminating with a 1-0 win over Houston at The Home Depot Center in MLS Cup 2011. Beckham had an assist in that game, just as he did in each of the club’s first three playoffs games, giving him a league-best four postseason assists on the year.

“I am thrilled that David has chosen to re-join the Galaxy, especially as he had numerous options where he could continue his career,” Galaxy General Manager and Head Coach Bruce Arena said. “I felt that he was one of the best players in all of MLS last season and we could not have achieved the success that we did without him. We look forward to trying to replicate that success this season with David once again in a Galaxy uniform.”

In 74 career regular season games in a Galaxy uniform, Beckham has 31 assists to go along with 11 goals with the club going 15-2-4 in the past three seasons when he scored a goal or recorded an assist. Additionally, the 36-year-old has helped lead the Galaxy to the postseason in each of the last three seasons, tallying seven assists in 11 postseason games. The Galaxy also qualified for the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Champions League for the first time in club history last season, with Beckham playing in four of the club’s six games while setting up a pair of goals in the competition.

In addition to Beckham’s on-field success, the former England captain has also had an historic impact on the game in the U.S. and globally. His mid-season arrival in Southern California coincided with the launch of the club’s new logo and colors, strengthening the Galaxy’s reputation in the global game and making the club’s jersey the best-selling in MLS and one of the best in the world.

“There has been much speculation in the past four months on where David was going to play and we did not get caught up in this and remained focused on re-signing him,” said Tim Leiweke, President & CEO, AEG. “David had many options and we are pleased he felt comfortable, not only with our organization but also with Los Angeles, and will remain an important part of our club, our AEG family and our City”.

“The Galaxy had an unbelievable year in 2011, David had a great year individually and the club were deservedly crowned Supporters’ Shield winners and MLS Cup Champions,” added Leiweke. “The 2011 Galaxy team may have been the best club in MLS history and like David, we are focused on repeating that success in 2012 and fielding the most exciting team for our fans.”

"When David and I discussed making the move from Real Madrid to the LA Galaxy back in 2007, our minds were firmly focused on the massive opportunity of helping to grow soccer in the United States,” added Simon Fuller, Beckham’s Business Partner and Manager. “We have made great progress over the past 5 years in raising the profile of soccer domestically and the MLS on a worldwide stage, and we are encouraged by all the results. However, clearly this is an ongoing mission and this new deal confirms our commitment to continuing our journey and making sure the world's biggest sport, soccer, continues to grow in the world's most passionate sports loving nation, the USA.”

In the past five years, the Galaxy emerged as a truly international club with worldwide recognition through tours that have drawn record crowds and major sponsors in such countries as Australia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, New Zealand, the Philippines and South Korea. Locally, the Galaxy have hosted sellout crowds against international powers such as AC Milan, Barcelona, Boca Juniors, Chelsea, Manchester City and Real Madrid, playing in front of more than 330,000 fans at The Home Depot Center, L.A. Coliseum and Rose Bowl in those matches.

Major League Soccer has also experienced exponential growth in the first five years that Beckham has played for the Galaxy, growing from 12 teams in 2006 to 19 teams this season, including the expansion Montreal Impact. In that time, the expansion fee for clubs has quadrupled from $10 million to $40 million, with $170 million being raised in expansion fees since the start of the 2007 MLS season. In that same time, nine new soccer-specific stadiums have been built in Major League Soccer, giving the League a total of 15 in 2012, while average attendance rose to 17,872 last season, making MLS the 10th best attended league in the world.

“What David has accomplished since joining the Galaxy five years ago is truly remarkable,” said Jeff Frasco of Creative Artists Agency (CAA). “While David has been a tremendous ambassador for soccer in the U.S., he has set further goals for himself, both professionally and personally, and we are pleased to be part of the team to help him achieve these and more.”

Beckham and the LA Galaxy will open preseason ahead of the 2012 MLS season next week at The Home Depot Center. They will return to competitive action on Wednesday, March 7 when they take on Toronto FC in the first leg of their 2011/12 CONCACAF Champions League Quarterfinal, which will be played at Rogers Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. They will open the 2012 MLS season three days later on Saturday, March 10 when they host Real Salt Lake at The Home Depot Center in MLS First Kick 2012, presented by Dick’s Sporting Goods. That game will kick off at 7:30 p.m. (PT) and tickets are on sale now as part of season ticket packages as well as three and six-game plans. Fans who reserve their 2012 Season Tickets by Sunday, January 22, 2012 will receive collector’s edition season tickets, featuring images from the Galaxy’s championship 2011 season. For more information about this game or to purchase tickets, please visit the club’s official website at www.lagalaxy.com.

Photo Credit: Cleva Media / PR Photos

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Angels Release 2012 Promotional Schedule

2012-01-18T12:28:00.000-08:00

There is an Angels FanFest on April 22, which will likely have players signing autographs for fans. Albert Pujols has two promotions and C.J. Wilson has only one this year.

2012 Angels Promotional Schedule

ANAHEIM -- The Angels Wednesday announced the release of the 2012 promotional schedule which begins with a matchup vs. the Kansas City Royals on Opening Day, April 6th. The schedule features 48 dates throughout the season, including popular events such as Big Bang Fridays and Family Sundays. Highlights on the schedule include:

Albert Pujols Bobblehead - April 17th vs. Oakland Athletics
Rally Monkey Beanie - May 1st vs. Minnesota Twins
Cowboy Hat - June 2nd vs. Texas Rangers
Kids Albert Pujols Jersey - July 7th vs. Baltimore Orioles
10th Anniversary World Series Ring Figurine - August 14th vs. Cleveland Indians

For a complete listing, visit angels.com/promotions.

In addition, the Angels have released additional Club Level Season Seats for the 2012 season. Season Seat Holders in the Club Level can view exciting Angels Baseball games from their own private level with padded, spacious seating arrangements and exclusive concourse surroundings. Guests of the Club Level also have exclusive access to the Knothole Club and in-seat service. To reserve packages, visit angels.com.

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Upcoming Appearance - Ryan Gomes

2012-01-17T14:33:00.000-08:00

Meet Los Angeles Clipper forward Ryan Gomes

Plus members of the Spirit Dance Team

Saturday, January 21st

2-3 PM

STAPLES

2570 Lincoln Blvd Ste 103

Venice, CA 90291

310-306-2720

Full information found here.
Thanks to Alex for the tip

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Around the Net - Dodgers Avoid Arbitration, UFC on FOX 2, Supercross at Dodger Stadium

2012-01-17T14:27:00.000-08:00

Dodgers avoid arbitration with Andre Ethier & James Loney; Both sign 1-year deals {ESPNLA}

Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Andre Ethier and first baseman James Loney avoided arbitration on Tuesday by agreeing to terms on one-year contracts.

Ethier will receive $10.95 million this season and an additional $25,000 for each of 600 and 625 plate appearances. Loney gets $6.375 million plus $25,000 for 585 plate appearances and $50,000 for each of 625 and 650 plate appearances.

Dana White announces that Michael Bisping will replace an injured Mark Munoz at UFC on FOX 2 {@danawhite}

Munoz is injured and out of the FOX fight! Now it's Chael Sonnen vs Mike Bisping jan 28th and the winner will fight Anderson for the title. — Dana White

Click here to see the rest of the UFC on FOX 2 fight card.

Supercross is taking over Dodger Stadium this Saturday. {@DylanHernandez}

The event starts at 7:00 pm at Dodger Stadium. Buy your tickets here.

Photo credit: Getty Images

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LA Galaxy 2012 Open House & Meet Your Seat

2012-01-16T17:33:00.000-08:00

Join the Galaxy at The Home Depot Center on Sunday, January 22nd for a FREE day of fun! The stadium is open to all Galaxy fans from 12-4pm and you'll be able to take a behind-the-scenes stadium tour, get a photo with the MLS Cup trophy and more!

Plus, 2012 Season Ticket and Mini Plan Holders will have the opportunity to participate in soccer drills on The Home Depot Center pitch and pick out the best seats for the season during the Meet Your Seat portion of the day. (Appointment times for seat selection are based on your season seat purchase date and will be communicated via email).

Need more Galaxy gear? The TEAM LA store will be open from 12-4pm offering all fans a 25% discount off regularly-priced merchandise.

Come as early as 10am and watch the Galaxy Academy teams in action! The U17/18s and the U15/16s will play Academy teams from the Vancouver Whitecaps on Field 5 at 10am and 12:30pm, respectively. Admission to those matches is completely free!

**There is no cost to attend or to park! Enter the facility through Gate A, park in Lot 10, and enter through the Northwest Gates.

MORE INFO: http://www.lagalaxy.com/playwhereweplay

Home Depot Center

18400 Avalon Boulevard

Carson, CA 90746

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Blake Griffin Signs His Panini Preferred Cards

2012-01-16T09:48:00.000-08:00

Panini America are on a mission with their first basketball product. Blake Griffin & Eric Bledsoe had a private signing with Panini America. A couple days ago, I posted a preview of 2011-12 Panini Preferred Basketball.

Let's take a look at some finished product:

For more visit the Panini America Blog.

Pictures from Panini

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2012 USA Olympic Men's Basketball Team Finalists

2012-01-16T09:18:00.000-08:00

The 20 finalists who will try to make the 12-man roster for the 2012 Olympics have been named on the USA Basketball website.

Full story here:

Eight 2008 Olympic gold medalists, 10 members of the 2010 USA World Championship gold medal winning team, one national team player and one newcomer to the USA Basketball National Team were among the 20 finalists named today for the 2012 U.S. Olympic men’s basketball team by USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo. The official 12-man U.S. Olympic team roster will be announced later this year.

“Jerry has built an extremely deep and talented USA National Team roster of 35 players and I want to thank each player for their incredible commitment to being part of USA Basketball. Reducing to 20 players was unbelievably difficult,” stated Krzyzewski, who has coached USA National Teams to a sterling 48-1 record since 2006.

The USA’s complete training schedule will be released at a later date.

2012 London Olympic Games

The 2012 Summer Olympic Games will be held July 27-Aug. 12 in London, England. Twelve teams will compete in the 2012 Olympic men’s basketball competition. Nations currently qualified for the Olympic competition include Great Britain, the host country; the United States, which earned its berth by virtue of claiming the gold medal at the 2010 FIBA World Championship; Africa zone champ Tunisia; Americas zone champion Argentina and runner-up Brazil; Asia zone winner China; European zone gold medalist Spain and silver medalist France; and Oceania zone champion Australia.

Seven of the twenty players are representing Los Angeles including Kobe Bryant, Chauncey Billups, Blake Griffin, Chris Paul, Tyson Chandler, Kevin Love, and Russell Westbrook.

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