One way I attempt to manage dreary and cold winters in New England is to find about and participate in fun and local baseball events. These events are generally casual, family friendly, include food, auctions for authentic collectibles, meet and greets with current and past players and lots of autographs. Proceeds for these events usually go to charitable organizations such as team foundations, local charities and other philanthropies.
In New England, 3 of these events are scheduled in January. The Lowell Spinners, Portland Sea Dogs, and New Britain Rock Cats, are all hosting charity events with plenty of players available to meet. Each event has it's own set of rules, pricing and schedule.
The Lowell Spinners dinner has one price, and usually one autograph per person. Trot Nixon is the keynote guest scheduled for this function. Adam Everett is another person listed to appear. They haven't listed any other significant guests to this point. Although in the past, this event usually had 10-12 guests. The Spinners usually have a great silent auction, live auction and a good dinner.
The Portland SeaDogs are also hosting an event in January. Their dinner has former Red Sox outfielder, Johnny Damon appearing. This dinner is sold out, but please check the website for details.
The New Britain Rock Cats are hosting a lunch in late January with former player and NLCS MVP Rob Dibble. They have other guests TBA in the upcoming weeks.
So take advantage of these family oriented charitable and team events. You are not only supporting these respective organizations, but offering opportunities for fans of all ages to meet their favorite players in a very laid back setting.
For more information, click on these links below:
http://www.milb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20141110&content_id=101025584&fext=.jsp&vkey=news_t546&sid=t546
http://www.milb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20141219&content_id=104504976&fext=.jsp&vkey=pr_t538&sid=t538
http://www.milb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20141007&content_id=97858706&fext=.jsp&vkey=news_t558&sid=t558