Apparatus, system, and method for wide area networking through a last mile infrastructure having a different primary purpose and apparatus and method for electronic scoring, score reporting, and broadcasting

Abstract

A system for electronic scoring and score reporting of a sporting event wherein an electronic scorebook is connected to an electronic scoreboard and electronic storage of the scoring information is provided. In one embodiment, a network is used, sending or receiving information to or from the scorebook, the scoreboard or the electronic storage. In other embodiments, the Internet is used as a conduit to communicate to and from the location of sports field lighting, to control operation of the lighting, or monitor the lighting or other events at the location. The network can also be used for last mile connectivity of end users to the Internet, and to compile information from sporting events at the locations and allow access to information about the game via the Internet.

1 - 8 . (canceled)  
   
   
       9 . An electronic scoring system comprising: 
 a scoreboard for displaying scoring information and other message information;    a scoring entry unit for entering scoring information;    a non-volatile memory for storing scoring information;    wherein the scoreboard is electrically connected to the scoring entry unit and the non-volatile memory is electrically connected to the scoring unit.    
   
   
       10 . The electronic scoring system of  claim 9  further comprising a communications network, wherein the communications network is capable of connecting to the scoreboard, the scoring entry unit, or the memory or the storage unit of a web site which is accessible via a last mile connection system that is otherwise useable for the sports field for operational purposes of control of the facility.  
   
   
       11 - 46 . (canceled)