On March 5, we’ll likely set a single-day traffic record. (Assuming the hamsters don’t strike. Again.)
So we decided that March 5 will be the best day to launch the benefit auction for Mason Bowen, our 17-month-old cousin who underwent a liver transplant in December.
We’re finalizing arrangements to run the auction through the same group Peter King used last year when he raised money for his SI colleague Paul Zimmerman, and we’ve already accumulated a small treasure trove of memorabilia from many of our friends in the NFL.
The stash includes, in no particular order, a Super Bowl XLIII ball signed by Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, a Bengals helmet signed by Boomer Esiason, a signed Darrelle Revis cleat, a signed DeMarcus Ware jersey, a signed Larry Fitzgerald jersey, a signed Terrell Davis jersey, practice balls signed by Champ Bailey and Brandon Stokley, a Dolphins helmet signed by Jake Long, a Rams helmet signed by Steven Jackson, a signed Antwan Randle El jersey, a signed, framed photo of Adrian Peterson lunging for a touchdown against the Packers (Florio Jr. wants that one as bad as J. Peterman wanted the JFK golf clubs), signed photos of Patrick Willis, Heath Miller, and Drew Brees, a Chiefs ball signed by coach Todd Haley, and the ultimate Eagles fan prize pack -- four tickets and pregame sideline passes to the 2010 game of the winning bidder’s choice and a signed Asante Samuel jersey.
For anyone else who would like to contribute an item to the auction, let me know.
Also, many of you have expressed an interest in making a contribution. We’re finalizing the details in that regard.
So thanks for your interest in Mason and your support of this cause. And get ready to start making bids on March 5.