KUDOS TO MR. PADRE

Congratulations to our good friend Tony Gwynn on his induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame: http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7072242 OK, congrats to Cal Ripken, Jr. too, but he already gets way more national PR being an East Coast star (smile). Seriously, both gentlemen are a rare breed in baseball today, with amazing records and personal integrity. My oldest son Jeff and I spent the weekend here in Cooperstown, New York and attended several special events, thanks to Tony. One of the most amazing was at the Hall of Fame last night, at private reception (for members, family and invited guests) featuring the largest gathering of Hall of Famers (53) ever. Stars we had a chance to chat with (besides Tony and Cal) included Willy Mays, Ozzie Smith, Lou Brock, Dave Winfield and Reggie Jackson. Got some fun photos of Yogi Berra chowing down at the snack table, too. The Padres also know how to throw a great party, and they did early yesterday evening. Today's ceremony was quite moving... and sizzling hot. Worries of rain turned into "oops, no sunscreen" moans. I have a lovely, healthy radish glow tonight. The media photographers seemed to get really excited when John Travolta and wife Kelly Preston showed up (on Cal's side). They sat across the aisle from us (and eclipsed Richard Gere who was also in attendance). Yes, quite a surreal weekend. But one to savor forever.