Whoever thought that one week to Christmas, a stadium filled to capacity of 80,000 people would sell out? The three Koch's threw on layers upon layers of clothing and trecked out to the Ralph. I worked many Bills games in the past, but this was my first one this year; and what an experience. As Jill was driving to the stadium, I was in the passenger seat contemplating on jumping out at exit 54 and hitch hiking to my uncles house. But, she was in the passing lane going 80; and I thought it would hurt just to much.
Our journey began pulling into the Ralph and paying $15 to park. You could get 3 beers for that money at stand 329. Cookie immediately asked for a receipt and we were on our way. As Jill gassed the vehicle a NYS sheriff deputy threw himself in front of the car and said "STOP"!!!! Three sheriff cars and three buses zoomed into the parking lot. It was the Denver Broncos arriving in style, two Laidlaw buses, and one short bus. I was screamed to stay back by a sheriff and that no pictures were allowed. Boy, did I fool him. I snapped one from my cell phone.
We found the closest parking spot, not near any bonfires and braved the sub zero temperatures and walked towards the Ralph. The parking lot has strict rules of opening up four hours before kickoff. These loyal fans were drinking since 1 pm then tailgated in the parking lot.
When Jill and I got to the gate, I showed my ID and was immediately patted down. I asked him if I could have his "digits", and he said "No maam, I have to touch everyone." With my head down, I quickly grabbed a Sports Service hoodie and a hat. (They treat their employees so well in zero degree temperatures). My assigned task was pizza. But, I spent more time with the drunks than I did making the pizza.
I am very proud of Jill and my father for working the front counter. They get screamed at, proposed to (Jill does), hit on (Jill does); anything for a cup of beer with the least amount of foam in it. I found one die hard Bills fan who allowed me to take his picture. He is a good friend of Jill's and it only cost me my food vouchers. (Note George in the background). 
WGR radio requested that everyone wear orange and black in protest of the Bill's season. Even the ushers were in the proper attire. Two minutes into the 2nd quarter, beer was immediately cut off. This caused quite a stir in 329. A riot began to form and protesters began to chant "We want beer and the Bills Stink." One unruly customer threatened dad with a lawsuit because of the sign. We did learn something viable last night. One loyal 329 customer informed Jill that he could Heinekein beer from a janitor for $1. 
I did find two drunk people who allowed me to snap their picture for blog purposes. They said their names were Dick and Chewy. (Real names have been withheld for their protection per their request). 
As requested, here is a picture of 120. There are a few empty seats, and the fans seemed somewhat under control. 
All in all it was a great time. I hardly worked, took breaks when I wanted to; and captured the moment as best I could. It's important to note that George had perfect attendance for 5 straight years. He even received a souvenir for his accomplishment. I have Grandma duty today. I will post more pictures after my day with Grandma.
15 comments:
Finally, I get to be first! Great job Jenna. A week until Christmas and you are still honoring requests. Without any more games at the Ralph, it will probably cut into our anonymous responses from fans who have moved out to the area, but so be it! I think that the janitor could have gotten more than $l from the people there last nite. Make sure that Uncle George brings his perfect attendance MAJOR AWARD for all to see and fondle on Christmas. Have a great day today. Fromthe Ralph to Grandma's: from the frying pan........Are you and she going to get into the wine today in Ruth's absence? Your portrait of the weather last nite is not going to help the chamber of commerce "sell" Buffalo to tourists. Great article in today's paper about new proposed slogans for our area. My favorite: 104 years without an assassination--better than Dallas.
This blog made me glad I am a fair weather fan-in every sense of the word!
Can someone explain the orange and black protest colors? I'm not familiar with that "statement". Does it have something to do with Rosa Parks?
uncle george had it right. Stay on the couch. Today was tree cutting day and it takes time for 3 separate groups to each find their own perfect tree. Snowed lightly the entire time, but we eventually all found success??? I still think that we were warmer than the folks at the game last night. Can't see diet pepsi selling all that well to that crowd.
Cousin K, our sports radio station here; WGR told all bills fans to protest wearing orange to the game on saturday (bronco colors).
Cousin Adam, your our guest blogger on Tuesday. I hope you did not forget.
Not to be a stickler, Auntie B, but I think its Motley CRUE, with two little dots over the U. Or maybe the E.
But either way, I say ditto. Can't wait for Sunday! Christmas is the day around which the whole kid YEAR revolves!
Just two quick questions -- have we settled on the Hazing Ritual we'll be subjecting Amy to? AND -- we don't have to put our name on the gift we're putting into the exchange, right? I mean, the anonymity makes it fun. (I'm sure I've read that on the Internet somewhere before ... )
Can I get me some clarification on that, please???
Cousins, are we all meeting out on the 23rd???? I think that would be a blast!!!! Jeff and Sandra get a babysitter so we can all go out. I know a babysitter who is looking for some quick cash; his name is Larry. I met him out at the Bill's game on Sunday. I think he would take great care of E and Z
Checking back in to see if my section was photograped and put up. I quess I did not explain myself very well, I actually wanted to see "FANS" in the section, but I did say 120, and that was posted, so I quess you did live up to your end of the bargain, so I will make a donation to the American Red Cross, our local chapter in your family's name. Its smith, right?
"anonymous" has got to be a long lost family member...
Nice post Jnna. I can't believe I watched the whole game.
I am anxiously awaiting my next blog before Christmas. It has to do with 7 monkees, two car ramps, Len Lenihan, and lube grease. If only Jean Shepherd were still alive to give this story it's true justice.
KDH, are we really whoopin' it up at Bob's Pump and Pull?
Jeff, feel free to take my space tomorrow, as my blog was going to be a thank you to the red sox for acquirind Miguel Tejada... and since that hasn't happened yet...
Adam, it's all about the fantasy. Your blog should consist of acquiring M. Tej. as it was a Christmas present for the Red Sox nation. I say go for it. And while your at it add another championship season to the blog.
The Friday night before Christmas at the Pump and Pull. Ah yes, many memories attached to that, but it was called Eddie's then and the best I could do for company was Paul and Art. We are running short on days before Christmas for posting. Jff seems to have all of the ideas necessary, but simply needs time to organize. Adam has time, but no real concept. I have time, but no ideas. Who has both??Is there anyone out there who has what it takes to lead us back to the top?? Could we make Jimbo Kelly an honorary Holtz? It could have been worse for Amy; she could have sat next to Dad and yelled into his ear for a few hours.
local sports fan. great bills pictures, why no sabres? How about some UB basketball photo's? Do you guys work for the local paper?
The best Christmas card yet, Auntie B. Only thinking lacking was the flocking! Very,very cool!!
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