On the eve on Superbowl LV, I think how different watching the game will be. It’ll likely be more of solo affair unless Shelly and I dine watching the beginning of the game (well we already ordered our meals yesterday so C’est possible at this writing). As shared on the eve of prior games, we join up with friends, sometimes in a diner in Brooklyn; otherwise among friends here in northeast Queens. If gatherings made sense, this would be first time in a long time that school the next day matters not. Alas, no gathering, following the recommendations of those who know a bit better. Until the team that last won 52 years back returns to this league championship game, the hanging certainly exceeded the game. This year all we got here involves rooting for certain scoring (or non-scoring) at the end of each quarter (overtime does not count). It’s all part of fundraising to support the charitable arm of my home Knights of Pythias lodge.

Each year, FDR Lodge 613’s Kings FDR Tolerance Foundation distributes donations and often scholarships usually in June (This year, the pandemic caused us to delay the awards until last Fall, and the meeting got done virtually.). Indeed at Gotham’s Friday Happy Hour, Norm Spizz lamented an inability to find any “scoring opportunities.” I checked with my friend Ira, also the Foundation’s President, whether any opportunities to donate remained and FDR obliged Norm. Ray and Odey and Mitch also asked in; obliged them all.

The “Ira system” offers ten ways to win; it helps you focus on the game and perhaps root for teams you may otherwise despise (See the sample pic upper left; if you reach out before gametime, I just may be able to get you opportunity to donate and play.)

Scoring the Superbowl also spawned the creation of one of Gotham’s favorite listserves. Our traditional listserve got overwhelmed during the last appearance by New Jersey’s other team (that claims a NY moniker). Gotham’s co-founder and other posted throughout so smart minds created Sportstalk@gothamnetworking.com to move that chatter to its proper place.

Inquiring minds still want to know:

What plans do you have today?

Watching the main event?

Where?

If taking in the game (or not), offer your predictions:

Who wins?

Share you final score prediction (and in keeping with Ira’s scheme, also predict first quarter, second quarter and third quarter scores).

p.s. Looking ahead to when we might be driving (or traveling) to watch this game (or just moving about more, how about several hours of Songs for the Road.