Mark Sr. is a big fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates, attending as many games each season as possible. The following photos were taken at a few special games, including the 2006 All Star Game.  Thanks to brother-in-law Michael Hirsh of Pleasant Hills and his good friend, Jimmy Miller, Mark was able to take his oldest grandson to the 2006 All Star Game.  

Although Mark and Drew attended Fan Fest activities in 1994, Mark had not been to an All Star Game since 1959.  He was only 15 and went to the game with his father at Pittsburgh's legendary Forbes Field.  Always the devoted fan, Mark kept score during the game.  However, not being a fan of baseball or traffic, Mark's dad wanted to leave the game in the seventh inning.  Mark still has the score book from that All Star Game.  In keeping with that "tradition," Garrett stopped keeping score for the 2006 game in the seventh inning, but they stayed for the whole game!


Mark Sr. and grandson, Garrett, at the entrance of the Roberto Clemente Bridge, which is "red carpeted" and open to pedestrians only for the Pittsburgh Pirates games.  This is a unique way to get to the game, and it offers a great view of the City of Pittsburgh as you make your way to PNC Park.   Another fun way to get to the games is by shuttle boat offered by The Gateway Clipper Fleet.  (You can find information on that service and more on our Community Links page.)



Mark Sr. and 14-year-old Garrett at the 2006 All Star Game.  Garrett was in from southern New Mexico with his family to visit Pittsburgh, PA for two weeks over the summer and was able to attend this game, the All Star Fan Fest, plus one other game.  There is no major league team in New Mexico, but even so, Garrett would be a Pirates fan!  (Yes, he's wearing a Wichita ball cap, but a Pittsburgh Pirates shirt!)


Balloon release at the All Star Game at Pittsburgh's PNC Park.


The All Star Game has been held in Pittsburgh on five occasions.  In 1944 and 1959 at Forbes Field,  in 1974 and 1994 at Three Rivers Stadium, and in 2006 at PNC Park.   


A view of the beautiful Pittsburgh skyline at PNC Park.  When the park first opened, Mark tried out seats all over the stadium and found there's a great view of the city and the game from every section.  It's no wonder why the Pittsburgh Pirates were chosen to host the All Star Game for a fifth time so soon after hosting in 1994.  In fact, PNC Park placed first on ESPN's list of best ballparks and garnered second on the Sports Illustrated list. 


Mark Jr. and daughters take in a Pittsburgh Pirates game with Mark Sr.  Living in Bethel Park makes it easy for them to attend games!


A view from behind the Pittsburgh Pirates dugout.  Let's go Bucs!

            
Everybody wants a ball from the Pittsburgh Pirates . . .            . . . and we mean everybody!


                 
The infamous hot dog shooter aims for the crowd!            Having a ball at the Pittsburgh Pirates game!