Rudy Gayby

According to the U.S. Patent Office, December 1, 1885, is recognized as the first day Dr. Pepper was served. The crisp, refreshing beverage once hailed as “America’s Most Misunderstood Soft Drink.” Maybe I am just parched at the moment, but by that descriptive could one make the case that the San Antonio Spurs are basketball’s Dr. Pepper? "America's Most Misunderstood NBA Team." Minus the High-fructose corn syrup. Unless, of course, it is the Original Dr. Pepper with cane sugar.

But, I digress.

As detailed in my column this week, the NBA recently released the 2011 NBA All-Star Ballot. The game is February 20 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. Starters will be announced January 27 at 6pm on TNT.

How does one cast his or her vote?

Methods of voting:

• Online at NBA.com - here.
• Facebook - Create an NBA.com All-Access account. From there, fans can publicly display their ballot on Facebook and Twitter.
• In person- At an NBA arena.
• Text Message - Text the player’s last name to “MYNBA” or 6-9-6-2-2.
• Etc. - You can also use your fancy HP Photosmart printer, but the procedure seems more difficult and less green.

Deadlines:

• January 17 is the last day you can vote at NBA arenas or through the H-uge P-ain Photosmart method.
• January 23 is the last day you can vote via text message or online at NBA.com.

At the bottom of the online ballot, the voter can write in the “Matt Bonner” of his or her choosing.

Realistically, Matt Bonner won’t make the Western Conference All Star team. However, I am confident he will be a participant in the 3-point Shootout.

Remember to avoid the ubiquitous High-fructose corn syrup. That includes avoiding basketball’s own High-fructose corn syrup - LeBron James.

Vote early.

Vote often (once every 24 hours).

Vote Spurs.